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Carol TiceCommunity builder with broadcast experience-Carol TiceLooking for an experienced podcast guest who's an online-business pioneer? I'm a seasoned online entrepreneur with over a decade of experience building and growing paid digital communities. My radio experience includes creating programming at KPFK Los Angeles. I also ran a weekly podcast for my community for over a decade, and am an experienced podcast guest. I give good ‘ear!'My new platform is Community Growth Academy on Skool, where I'm teaching the paid community model to other coaches, consultants and experts looking to create more reliable income and impact more lives with less marketing. (I know, a community about paid community is meta.) CGA provides an opportunity for aspiring community founders to learn this business model the right way–with a step by step course developed by a community-building pro and with peer support. Founded in late ‘24, CGA is coming out of beta mode with some members already launching. One member's community is already earning six figures annually. The idea for CGA came from my past experience in online business. After struggling to earn with my Make a Living Writing blog and as a writing coach, I founded the Freelance Writers Den community back in 2011. The Den grew to over 1,500 paying members, earning nearly $6 million over the life of the business. In 2021, I sold the Den for life-changing money. My paid community experience grew from my background as an award-winning business journalist who has authored/co-authored 2 traditional print business books on business startup and entrepreneurship. While running the Den, I wrote over a dozen e-books for members, including The Recession-Proof Freelancer. Forbes and Entrepreneur are among my magazine bylines. I'm based in Seattle but travel frequently with my husband in our RV while supporting my CGA members. Let's talk! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fredrik HarenFredrik Haren, The Creativity ExplorerAs a global speaker who has delivered over 2,000 presentations across 75+ countries, Fredrik has spent his career exploring creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas. He has inspired over a million people from the stage and his bestselling book, The Idea Book - has been recognized as one of the '100 Best Business Books of All Time'. Fredrik has been inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame on two continents. But most importantly: Fredrik is passionate about sharing his insights on what he has learnt during this 25 year journey around the world so that others can discover their full creative potential. Everyone wants to become more creative - but how can we discover our full creative potential? That is the questions that has pushed Fredrik Haren to travel to over 75 countries on 6 countries over the last 25 years. He is The Creativity Explorer.Fredrik has interviewed hundreds of business leaders - from heads of innovations to CEOs and travelled the world to interview thousands of creative people from all walks of life: from glass artists in Barcelona to Nomads in Mongolia. He even went to learn about creativity from the people in North Korea! He has learnt about creativity from the children in the slums of Mumbai as well as from the most famous watch makers in Switzerland - and everything in-between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sean CononieI was feeding the homeless at a very young age just out of high school. I n 1997 I found this guy John McCormick a homeless man who needed help. I asked him to come with me and I took him to a hospital. We were not a shelter at the time. When I gave him housing the hospitals found out and they started to send me all their homeless. We became a shelter basically overnight without one ounce of planning. We became the biggest provider in the county. Years later the city sued us but we won the case to stay where we were. I also operate the Mass Shooting Prevention Center Crisis hotline trying to help potential shooters get the help they need.Been working with the homeless since 1984, operates shelters, food banks, outreach, COVID outreach, Monitor Hospitals for unsafe discharges, Hate Crimes on the Homeless, and NIMBY when it comes to communities that don't want shelters . Networks covered my work, CNN, FOX and Friends , CBS and many local networks. Also on NewsNation for mass shootings and The Hill. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lance CaykoSERIAL ENTREPRENEUR | ARCHITECT | BUILDERLance Cayko is a dynamic serial entrepreneur, award-winning architect, and co-founder of F9 Productions, a leading design-build firm in Northern Colorado. With over two decades in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, Lance has earned international recognition, including the 2016 Architizer A+ Award for Architecture + Living Small for his innovative Atlas Tiny House project, featured on HGTV. He launched F9 Productions in 2009 alongside partner Alex Gore, transforming recession-era layoffs into a thriving business that has grown from a two-person startup to a team of 10 operating from a custom-designed office in Longmont. Under his leadership, F9 has achieved remarkable milestones, such as topping BizWest's Mercury 100 Fastest-Growing Private Firms in Tier III for 2023 with a 386% growth rate, and securing the Best Architecture Firm title in the Best of Mile High Awards for both 2023 and 2024. In 2024, Lance was honored as one of BizWest's Most-Influential Business Leaders in Construction, and he received the 2021 Horizon Award from the North Dakota State University Foundation for his exceptional professional success and community contributions.Beyond his firm, Lance shares his expertise as a part-time lecturer at the University of Colorado Boulder and his alma mater, North Dakota State University, where he mentors aspiring architects on practical design and business strategies. He co-hosts Inside the Firm, a top-five global podcast on architecture and entrepreneurship, delivering candid insights on industry challenges, innovation, and growth to over a million listeners worldwide. Committed to community service, Lance founded Longmont Community Gardens in 2020, a non-profit dedicated to urban sustainable gardening, education, and local involvement, evolving from his years of volunteer garden management.In his personal life, Lance is a devoted father of four, an avid professional fisherman, and the creator of the YouTube channel Fishing with Lance, where he edits and shares his outdoor adventures chasing walleye and paddlefish in Colorado and North Dakota. Whether discussing resilient business practices, sustainable design, or work-life balance, Lance brings a grounded, multifaceted perspective to every conversation, inspiring audiences with his journey from hands-on tradesman to influential industry leader. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alan LazarosCEO of Next Level University, Top 100 Podcast, 2,100+ Ep, 180+ Countries, Computer Engineer, MBA, 11,000+ Hours of Coaching, Training, and Podcasting.At age 2, my birth father passed away in a car accident. At age 26, after getting into a nearly fatal car accident myself, I questioned everything...I was already very successful from the outside looking in, but filled with pain, regret, and abandonment challenges, I searched for answers and finally found what I was really missing all this time, Personal Development.Today I'm grateful to lead a global team of 18 individuals as the Founder and CEO of Next Level University, a Global Top 100 Podcast focused on helping others reach their own unique potential in Health, Wealth, and Love.With well over 2,100 episodes and more than one million listens in 180+ countries, I've been doing this deeply meaningful work for more than a decade, and after accumulating more than 10,000 hours of Coaching, Training, and Podcasting with all walks of life, I believe in a heart-driven but no BS approach to achieving both external success AND internal fulfillment.Thank you again for this opportunity. I believe we're all far more capable than we realize when given the right guidance, and I'm honored to help you and your listeners reach their own unique Next Level of success! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Invasion of the Punk Rockers, Who Drink Blood!: An Ashwood Story (Ashwood Stories) Invasion of the Punk Rockers, Who Drink Blood!A Vampire Horror-Punk Thriller for Rebels, Outcasts, and Anyone Who's Ever Slammed in a Basement Mosh Pit.Bax Laywright and his punk band, Ashwood Commons, are used to being outsiders in the buttoned-up Bible Belt town of Ashwood, Kentucky. They've got fire in their guitars, rebellion in their lyrics, and no patience for small-town conformity. But when a mysterious music collective invites them to play a warehouse show in Louisville, it's the break they've been dying for—until the night turns into a blood-soaked nightmare.The venue? An abandoned slaughterhouse called The Abattoir.The headliner? A gothic band called Crimson Thirst.The fans? Not all of them are human.What starts as a killer show quickly spirals into a trap laid by actual vampires using the underground punk scene to hunt, hypnotize, and harvest the young and rebellious. Bax and his band barely escape with their lives—but the real horror begins when the vampires follow them home.Now, Ashwood Commons isn't just trying to make it out of their dead-end town—they're trying to save it.Armed with guitars, guts, and DIY determination, these teens must rally their scene, outsmart an ancient predator, and fight back before their hometown becomes the next stop on Crimson Thirst's never-ending tour of terror.If The Lost Boys formed a band with Buffy, played a show in Jennifer's Body, and were managed by the ghost of Sid Vicious, you'd get Invasion of the Punk Rockers, Who Drink Blood!—a fierce, funny, and terrifying novel that fuses vampire horror with the raw heart of punk rock.Perfect for fans of:

Eric GeeAuthor, Writing and Life Coach, FounderI was a bad student” is my common answer when asked about my early school years. I could be a teacher's best friend or worst enemy, alternating between charismatic participant and equally charismatic dissident depending on my passion for the assignment. As my brother once perfectly encapsulated: “If Eric doesn't like doing something and it takes longer than fifteen minutes, he's not going to do it.”Let's face it, school is designed for certain types of people. For everyone else, it's an exhaustive marathon of tedium, awkwardness, and social castigation. We're often told that it's a phase that we'll grow out of, but why should we grow out of something we are, just to be something we're not? It hurts to be misunderstood, but it hurts even more to be gaslit into believing your value differences are an illusion, and if you'd only conform to someone else's standards of happiness you'd, in fact, be happy too.That is why I've devoted the last two decades of my life to helping people forge a path to success that works for them. I founded an education company with individualized growth as its mission statement. I've coached teachers on how to work with their students' personal needs, and provided business professionals, in leadership and non-leadership roles, with the tools they need to attain collaboration, productivity, and personal growth within their team.My book, The Power of Personality, is the culmination of decades of research and application. I've personality-typed over fifty thousand people during my career, which is no small sample size. The main takeaway? Our relationship to others will only be as healthy as our relationship to ourselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David RichardsUnlocking Divine Identity, Leadership, and Legacy—One Conversation at a Time.A Journey of Awakening: From Near-Death to Unshakable FaithWhen I was six, my best friend, in a fit of rage, hurled a hammer across the yard. It struck the back of my head with brutal force, and in an instant, everything went black. But I didn't just lose consciousness—I left my body. Floating outside myself, I watched as his older brother carried what looked like my lifeless form back to their house. That was 1975.Some time later, I came to—bandaged, dazed, but alive. The memory of that moment faded into the background of my life, buried under the weight of time. Until the pandemic.I grew up in a traditional Christian and military family, shaped not only by the discipline of that world but by the richness of cultures I encountered as a child living in Japan. The beauty of the Japanese, Filipino, and South Korean traditions left an imprint on my soul, broadening my understanding of connection, honor, and love. Coming back to the States after three years of living abroad, my life transformed. Even then, I saw love differently—not just in relationships, but as something divine, something woven into the very fabric of existence. I believed in a kind of biblical fairy tale. That belief made me different—an outlier, a dreamer, someone who felt things deeply but struggled to find where I fit in the world.Following in the footsteps of my father and brother, I became a Marine Corps officer. Yet for all the discipline and leadership the Corps instilled in me, I couldn't make relationships work. One failed marriage. Then another. By 2020, I was a Director at Cisco Systems, carrying the weight of two divorces and the wreckage of a 3.5-year relationship that had just ended. Then the pandemic hit. And I hit rock bottom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When The Universe Holds Your Hair BackFor years, Katie Baker wore the mask of a woman who had it all together. On the surface, she was a successful professional, a loving mother, and the embodiment of relentless perseverance. But beneath that carefully crafted facade, the cracks were deepening into fractures too wide to ignore. Haunted by a childhood of instability—marked by alcoholic fathers, sexual, physical, and verbal abuse, a lack of protection, and exposure to addiction—she carried her pain like an invisible weight. Pressured by societal expectations to “buck up,” she buried her wounds under achievement and resilience, holding onto pain and shame well into her late 40s.In this raw and unflinching memoir, Katie takes readers on her journey from rock bottom to radical transformation. Guided by courage and therapeutic psychedelics, she confronted the darkness she had spent a lifetime outrunning—unraveling the shame, guilt, and addiction that had stolen so much from her life. Through profound medicine journeys, she unearthed the lost pieces of herself and reclaimed the life she was meant to live.But this is more than a story of healing—it's a story of rediscovery. With vulnerability, grit, and humor, Katie reflects on the childhood that shaped her, the courage it took to rebuild, and the light that emerges when we finally face our deepest wounds.For anyone who has ever struggled to find their way back to themselves, When The Universe Holds Your Hair Backis a beacon of hope, redemption, and the powerful reminder that healing is not a destination—it's a journey home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derek WilliamsLicensed Acupuncturist & Book Author Empowering People to Achieve Peak Performance and Improved Health Through Applied KinesiologyToday, we're thrilled to welcome Derek Williams, a licensed acupuncturist, certified strength and conditioning specialist, and accomplished author. With a background in competitive sports and personal training, Derek has transformed lives through Applied Kinesiology. He's the author of Turn on the Power: How to Use Applied Kinesiology to Improve Athletic Performance, 3rd Edition, a game-changer for athletes seeking instant performance boosts and injury recovery. He's also written Successful Treatment of Environmental Illness with Applied Kinesiology: A Comprehensive Guide for Doctors and Patients, offering groundbreaking insights into managing environmental health challenges. Join us as Derek shares his expertise and practical strategies to empower peak performance and wellness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step Into Your Miracle: Transforming Trauma into TriumphAfter a devastating accident, a coma, and a breast cancer diagnosis, Shannon could have easily given up. Instead, she embarked on a transformative journey of healing. Through simple daily practices, she rebuilt her life and discovered inner strength she never knew she had.With honesty and humor, Shannon's story is a powerful testament to perseverance and self-care. Along with inspiration, her experiences offer practical lessons, reminding us that hope, and healing are possible even in dark times. Whether you're a survivor, a health enthusiast, or just looking for an uplifting read, this book is a heartfelt guide to reclaiming your life, one day at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mike MontagueHuman-First AI Marketing® @Avenue9

Dan HafnerSoftware Developer, Creator, No-Code ExpertI hear app ideas every single day, and I've learned how to spot the ones with real potential and steer clear of the rest.I've seen firsthand how powerful an app can be as a marketing, fulfillment, and lead-generation tool. There's both an art and a science to bringing these elements together for success.On shows, I can bring value by breaking down this process and explaining how it works in straightforward, simple terms anyone can understand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Casalese Founder/CEO of RoofBids. Shaking up the roof industry for the good of the world!Getting a business started is super easy. Starting a business is not. Taking the steps to incorporate, set up bank accounts, credit cards, etc is easy because their are processes to follow and checklists everywhere to find out what to do. BUT starting that business as a business that will succeed is crazy hard and it's not for everyone. "They" say to follow the script to make a successful business, but the world is not that easy, not that kind, and not that welcoming to new things. Failing is the best thing that has happened to me. We need to fail and fail and fail until we start to see the small things that make the bigger things successful. Slowing down, reading the signs, making informed decisions, but also trying something that will fail and teach you something is as much or more important.My first venture was going to be a cool space for guys inside of a mall. I didn't get it off the ground and within 5 years malls all around the country were closing down. My wife and I started a small children's boutique online. We found a brick and mortar location, but before we signed in 2008, the stock market crashed. Another business I started depended upon a partnership that never produced what they said they would, and it made me fail. I ended up selling roofs just to earn a few dollars. I felt like I would never succeed in business, but that roof sales job led to RoofBids and I couldn't be more thankful! RoofBids led to starting our nonprofit, Covered by Christ (which is harder than a for-profit business) and I couldn't be happier! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Six Pillars Of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap to SuccessJim Carlough knows effective leadership. Throughout the last three decades, he has grown from mentee to mentor and held key leadership positions in multi-million-dollar companies. His decades of success are a direct result of intentional growth and a lifelong learning mindset. In The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, Carlough debunks the traditional theory that certain individuals are born leaders and provides a practical guide for anyone striving to be a respected and successful leader. He has identified the six key attributes that effective leaders embrace, and now shares how intentional practice and lifelong learning form the foundational pillars of essential leadership. Today's dynamic and diverse work environments require strong leadership that exemplifies integrity and credibility, provides stability and focus, and encourages a company-wide growth mindset. Through this comprehensive approach, The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership empowers readers to embark on their leadership journey, equipping them with the tools they need to overcome challenges, inspire others, and leave a lasting impact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jessica MartinYour Human Strategists dedicated to empowering corporate decision-makers to navigate the intricate landscapes of human potentialJessica is a visionary leader and the Human Strategist on a mission to blend neuroscience & ancient wisdom to dismantle societal constraints and change organizations and lives. Built on a simple belief: every person & every business matters. Empowering individuals & organizations through a new era of strategy, cultivating inspired action, she helps you achieve the success your desire, infusing integrity, authenticity, & conscious awareness into everything she does.Jessica's led transformative experiences in thousands of lives around the world. She has captivated international stages across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, aerospace, & education. Spearheading strategic implementations of regional & global movements, focusing on growth & enhancing lives or company operational framework and culture. She is an avid writer with 3 more books releasing in 2025. She seeks authentic connections and helping individuals and company's take the right actions for them to empower blissful transformations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sean CononieI was feeding the homeless at a very young age just out of high school. I n 1997 I found this guy John McCormick a homeless man who needed help. I asked him to come with me and I took him to a hospital. We were not a shelter at the time. When I gave him housing the hospitals found out and they started to send me all their homeless. We became a shelter basically overnight without one ounce of planning. We became the biggest provider in the county. Years later the city sued us but we won the case to stay where we were. I also operate the Mass Shooting Prevention Center Crisis hotline trying to help potential shooters get the help they need. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gloria VanderhorstPsychologist, Writer, Advisor and MentorI started my practice as a psychologist working with preschool children, mainly boys, as the female teachers saw them as problematic with their exuberance and physical energy and labeled them as hyperactive or attention-deficient. My work resulted in their fathers coming to therapy to explore their emotional angst. I was privileged to see how our culture robs males of access to the full range of emotions necessary for a healthy sense of self and healthy relationships with others. As I continued to work with men and help them to access feelings that have been blocked from early childhood, I began to write about their stories and examine how our culture has systematically limited the emotional development of males. I am writing a book about the developmental dangers of being a male in this culture and how fathers can help their sons avoid the trap of the emotional desert. My therapy work focuses on helping men develop broader, healthier relationships with their spouses and families. Many of the blogs I write weekly are designed to help men and women better understand their emotional selves and the dynamics of relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Empathic Leader: How EQ via Empathy Transforms Leadership for Better Profit, Productivity, and InnovationIs the gap between your vision and your reality widening? Do you feel powerless in the face of the changes wrought by artificial intelligence, generational friction, and quiet quitting? In today's fast-changing business world, the list of challenges is seemingly endless and courageous. Adaptable leadership is mandatory for success.If you've read the books, taken the tests, and completed all the courses but are still left wondering why you're not getting the results you want, you may be missing one vital component: actionable empathy.Leaders who successfully model empathy have been shown to achieve higher levels of innovation, productivity, AND bigger profits.In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller reveals the true power of empathy and emotional intelligence. Don't be fooled, this is not the fluffy, emotional kind of empathy, but the strategic, actionable kind that will help you improve your leadership, your business, and secure your future.The Empathic Leader will help you to unlock not only your own true potential but also that of your teams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the MomentDiscover the potential of a compelling story―and how to craft one―with expert help from an experienced storytellerIn The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment celebrated writer, interviewer, and speaker Dr. Rod Berger delivers an inspiring and practical discussion about the rebirth of stories in our society's collective consciousness. The author explains how great stories are woven into corporate strategy, educational curricula, social media platforms, and more, and how to tap into those stories to connect with your audiences.You'll learn about how to tell your own story―rather than leave it to be told by someone else―validating your presence and authenticating your own unique experiences. You'll also discover a one-of-a-kind tapestry of characters, ideas, and themes that combine to highlight the singular power and potential of story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arnold BeekesThe Brain Fitness TrainerArnold enables people to move from ‘Fitting In' to Flying Out'.Here he shares that he grew up in an environment of extreme ‘Fitting In'.Conformity was an integral part of my upbringing. My father was a military officer, both in his work and at home. Still, I was very different from my fellow students at primary school. I was complying with my father's norms and not with those of my friends or school. I was different in the sense that I always had a short haircut (remember: military coup) and was not allowed to wear jeans. This was hard, especially in the sixties. Also, I wanted to play football, but that was not allowed, I had to play (field) hockey. If I complied in every area of my life (school, gardening, polishing shoes, sports etc.), he would not be angry, then it was sort of okay.In high school the focus was on knowledge tests and totally not on discovering and developing talents and strengths. And – even more important- there was no attention for who I am and how to live life. Like most young people I had no clue what career and corresponding education to choose. At the university, the approach was basically the same; the focus was mainly on memorizing knowledge. I was still a cog in the learning machine.Then I had to do military service, no need to further explain what that meant for fitting in.In my work, both in a small company and in multinationals, there was a strong push to comply with corporate culture. Although it was my job to innovate, there was still this strong centrifugal force.This means that from a very young age, I was conditioned to meet the expectations of others (parents, teachers, professors, or bosses). I was conditioned to live someone else's life.To fit in is the holy grail of our society. It is very likely that you also are expected to fit in. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David MarcusParent Rx: Prescriptive Wisdom, Tips and Strategies for Communication with Your ChildParenting in today's challenging world requires new tools to help their children foster a healthy self-image.But parents need help in making communication with their children a healthy part of their household.Most of us use the parenting techniques that our parents used.But these do not apply to the new issues that families face today. How can parents learn to communicate with their children? How can parents help their children communicate with them? Invite Dr. David Marcus to share new insights and techniques for listeners to develop an effective emotional language and step-by-step strategies tailored for different stages of child and teen development. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your parenting skills and foster a stronger connection with your children. Unlock the toolbox with Dr. David S. Marcus and pave the way for a happier family life. Invite Dr. David Marcus to discuss:1. How to help parents to develop a common emotional language with their child. 2. The concepts of “being filled up” and the “empty-out process” that helps your child tolerate their intense emotions.3. How to be a “Soothing Presence” for your child to make it safe for them to communicate with you.4. How to avoid common parenting mistakes that get in the way of emotional communication.5. The emotional impact of high-conflict parents on children including divorce and parent alienation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max ShippeeFantasy, Fatherhood, & Fitness - Author, Actor, PhilosopherMax Shippee grew up in rural Maine and knows the woods well. His own journey took him to Hollywood, California by way of Oklahoma, Nevada, Texas, DC, and even Bali, Indonesia. For the last 20 years, he has been busy as an actor, a gym owner, a husband, and a father. Along the way, he's had some stories brewing in that silver-haired head of his. He thought he best write them down. You can find his spontaneous science-fiction installments on Reddit, and now, Moonshine: The Series has begun with Book One: Path of the Raven. ;) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olaolu OgunyemiLeadership Mentor | Children's Book Author | Parenting Advocate | Marine Officer | Future Author of Lead LastInspire. Connect. Empower the Next Generation.Olaolu Ogunyemi is a proud U.S. Marine Officer, award-winning author, and passionate leadership mentor on a mission to build strong leaders from the boardroom to the living room. As the founder of Parent-Child-Connect, Olaolu empowers parents, educators, and mentors to bridge the gap with the next generation through practical, purpose-filled strategies.His children's book "Crow From the Shadow" earned critical acclaim and introduced thousands of families to healthy conversations around emotions, choices, and self-worth. Olaolu has also contributed to Forbes, YouVersion, Military Families Magazine, and other national outlets on topics ranging from fatherhood to leading with empathy and discipline.Whether speaking to emerging leaders, podcast audiences, or classrooms full of children, Olaolu delivers an energizing blend of military precision, parenting wisdom, and soulful storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Modern Motherhood: An American HistoryHow did mothers transform from parents of secondary importance in the colonies to having their multiple and complex roles connected to the well-being of the nation? In the first comprehensive history of motherhood in the United States, Jodi Vandenberg-Daves explores how tensions over the maternal role have been part and parcel of the development of American society. Modern Motherhood travels through redefinitions of motherhood over time, as mothers encountered a growing cadre of medical and psychological experts, increased their labor force participation, gained the right to vote, agitated for more resources to perform their maternal duties, and demonstrated their vast resourcefulness in providing for and nurturing their families. Navigating rigid gender role prescriptions and a crescendo of mother-blame by the middle of the twentieth century, mothers continued to innovate new ways to combine labor force participation and domestic responsibilities. By the 1960s, they were poised to challenge male expertise, in areas ranging from welfare and abortion rights to childbirth practices and the confinement of women to maternal roles. In the twenty-first century, Americans continue to struggle with maternal contradictions, as we pit an idealized role for mothers in children's development against the social and economic realities of privatized caregiving, a paltry public policy structure, and mothers' extensive employment outside the home.Building on decades of scholarship and spanning a wide range of topics, Vandenberg-Daves tells an inclusive tale of African American, Native American, Asian American, working class, rural, and other hitherto ignored families, exploring sources ranging from sermons, medical advice, diaries and letters to the speeches of impassioned maternal activists. Chapter topics include: inventing a new role for mothers; contradictions of moral motherhood; medicalizing the maternal body; science, expertise, and advice to mothers; uplifting and controlling mothers; modern reproduction; mothers' resilience and adaptation; the middle-class wife and mother; mother power and mother angst; and mothers' changing lives and continuous caregiving. While the discussion has been part of all eras of American history, the discussion of the meaning of modern motherhood is far from over. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan ReichertOur Protector DevelopmentBuilt to break; after spending almost a half-century on this planet I've faced more challenges than most and healed, recovered, or excelled through all of them. My never quit attitude has created multiple miracles through pain and perseverance to succeed in what may call a modern wasteland. My message is inspiring to anyone going through a valley in their life and they need some reassurance that they are not alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet JennieJennie Richau is the designer and dreamer behind Studio Richau.With a background in design, an eye for beauty, and a deep curiosity about the world, she designs each piece to spark joy and personal connection. As a Certified Feng Shui Practitioner, Jennie weaves harmony and intention into every design, making each accessory both stylish and soulful.Raised in an entrepreneurial family, Jennie understands the heart and hustle behind small business. She's passionate about supporting local makers and believes in the power of community, craftsmanship, and creative expression. Inspired by travel, personal style, and life's little luxuries, she designs for women who want to live as vibrantly as the colors in her art. When she's not dreaming up new designs, Jennie can be found trail running, making pottery, trying new recipes, reading, or hanging out with her two playful kitties, Whiskey and Nixie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curtis ButlerFounder, Guiding Ascent Career Coaching — Leading students and recent grads to career successCurtis spent 30 years in finance as an investor and client-facing executive at industry-leading firms including J.P. Morgan, Jennison Associates, and an affiliate of Legg Mason. He has built and led teams and has been on both sides of the interview table hundreds of times. He has a keen understanding of what moves a resume to the top of the pile and what soft skills are required to stand out in an interview. Throughout his career, Curtis always made time for mentoring and has provided individualized coaching to scores of college and graduate students at his Alma maters, Union College and Johns Hopkins University. He has also stepped in to help children of friends and colleagues escape the frustration of a job search and embark on successful careers. His passion for coaching students and young professionals led Curtis to launch Guided Ascent Career Coaching in 2024, with Zoom-based 1-on-1 coaching designed to help young people define their path, plan the steps that can lead them there, and apply the job-search strategies that have proven successful over time — regardless of the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John DedakisFrom Journalist to Novelist (Or How I Learned to Start Making it UP)Personal experience is the grist of fiction. Budding novelists are taught to "write what you know." In my case, I know journalism, and I know grief and loss. During my 45 years in journalism (25 at CNN), I've interviewed presidents (Reagan and Carter), famous people (Alfred Hitchcock), covered the White House, and have been tear-gassed covering a riot. In my personal life, I've lost my sister to suicide and my youngest son to a heroin overdose.All of those experiences are baked into the six political thrillers I've written. Journalism and grief are backdrops and themes that make up the life of my protagonist, Lark Chadwick, a strong-willed and strong-minded twenty-something young woman.My first traditionally published novel came out 20 years ago. It took me 10 years to find my agent. During that time, the novel went through 14 major revisions, and my agent is the 39th agent I queried. That learning experience led to a second career as a manuscript editor and one-on-one writing coach. I'm also a keynote speaker and workshop leader. I inspire people who are struggling with grief to use writing as a way to heal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michele DefilippoPublish Like the Pros: 1106 Design makes it easy for authors to release a top-quality book, keep control of it, and earn more money when they sell it—without a publisher! We also help businesses with shorter lead magnet books.Self-publishing means the AUTHOR is the publisher, but you'd never know that from browsing the internet. Most authors believe a publisher is necessary, that they must sign away their rights, creative control, and revenues to offer their books to the public. This is not the case!1106 Design's mission is to help authors publish books without sharing a penny of their net revenue from sales with a publisher. We provide self-publishing peace with quality editorial and design services, reliable publishing advice, and the convenience of project management at every stage. Since 2001, we have helped more than 4,000 authors Publish Like the Pros.If you or your listeners think earning $5–$7 on every book sale is better than earning $1-$3 typically paid by "publishers," we welcome a conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maxim ShapiroMen's Action Life CoachIn my life, I lived without direction for many years. I thought I was on the right track, but still felt depressed and lacked pride in myself. Deep down, I knew I was not pushing myself and living on purpose. Through the help of someone very important to me, I was able to connect to what it means to live fully, push myself, go for everything and give everything to my life. Since then, I have been able to live with joy and purpose, I am engaged and enrolled in my own life, I am the hero of my own story. I would like to teach other men to do the same because there are a lot of men in the US today who are living without a rudder and do not know how to be men or productive people in this society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jason LangeMen's Guide - Every Man Should Be in a Men's GroupI used to think I was just a mom—until unresolved trauma from my husband's childhood began to shake the foundation of our family. It nearly ended our marriage. The traditional paths didn't bring us the healing we needed, but through alternative therapies, deep personal work, and spiritual tools, we slowly found our way. What felt like everything falling apart was, in truth, my life coming together.That crisis became a catalyst for my own awakening. I turned inward, discovered the gifted healer within me, and began the long, sacred work of transformation. I got certified in multiple modalities of energy work, and intuitive practices, along with NLP and IFS—and I built a platform to help others access the same kind of healing.Today, I'm the founder of The Wholeness Network and creator of The Wholeness Library—an on-demand collection of teachings from global experts in emotional healing, spiritual development, and embodied wellness. From learning how to make a nourishing breakfast to activating your own healing hands, the Library is a toolkit for living more consciously and completely.I'd love to bring this conversation to your audience—because healing is possible, purpose is real, and wholeness is available to every one of us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rudy Mendoza has been involved in the art world since the age of 8. Being well known by his piers in school, he was regarded as a great artist growing up in Scottsdale Arizona. Then in 8th grade, the students at Supai Middle School voted him best artist. Rudy was excited to inter the art world in High School, but felt disappointed when in his freshman year his art teacher was giving him C's and D's. So Rudy did not want to take art the following year. He was approached by; teacher, mentor, and now long time friend Janet Blum. She said that she was going to be the new art teacher at Coronado High School, and she had seen his work, and wanted Rudy to give her a chance to further develop his talents. For the next three years he studied art. Only for a short period from 1997- 2002, he would take a break from developing this craft. In 2002 he had an itch to do more with his art, so he did his first piece on canvas of a prison cell, which was set up on display at The Sanctuary, a local night club in downtown Scottsdale. He was in the 944 Magazine, and that sparked confidence to move forward in the art world. In 2003, he took business and business communications at Central Arizona College, and that's where he began making goals for his future, thus putting his goals on paper. In 2003, the vision for Ru Art began. The logo was drawn up and new ideas started; such as prints, a cloth line, and mural services, ect. The goal was to offer a total Ru Art business that reflects upon the art of Rudy Mendoza. In 2005, he did his first mural for Chris Millard, who is the pilot for Chip Foose and Joe Rogan, from Fear Factor. Also in 2005 he did an oil painting for Ron Whiteside, the 2003 Riddler Award Winner. His car, called 'The Stallion' is a 1932 Mercury, designed and built by the famous Chip Foose. In 2006, he was displayed at Exposed Art Gallery in Phoenix. Rudy continued his art and maintained a full time job until September 1st 2009, when he decided to develop Ru Art full time. One month later, he had the biggest mural job ever, at Bell Fords training center, which encompasses 167 ft. by 8ft. Shortly thereafter on November 3rd, just two month into business, Rudy was invited to speak at the Mayors breakfast in Scottsdale. Here, presented to the Mayor and City Council, he spoke on the importance of funds develop young talent, and the success it can offer to people in a variety of fields. Rudy stressed that ' fundingin this area, should not be cut'. By January 2010, Ru Art was a part of the main tent, at the 39th Annual Barrett Jackson, Collector Car Auction. Here, Ru Art supplied fine art on canvass, merchandise, window paintings, renderings and more to the collector car enthusiast. Now Ru Art can be seen at The Scottsdale International Auto Museum, where he has a giant mural, and his collection of oils on canvas, which has been seen and nationally televised when Arizona Governor Jan Brewer, and Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu, held a fund raiser for fallen border patrol agent Brian Terry. Here in 2011, Rudy Mendoza is at a great start, at 33 years of age, its only gonna get better, so look for this up comming art star, and follow him on his website www.ruartonline.com, or on facebook, look for Ru Art. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shanti HershensonSixteen-year-old author of 30 books (with 17 published)!Since I was twelve years old, I have actively been writing and publishing books. I've written 30 books in varying genres, including You Won't Know Her Name, a novel-told-in-poetry about bullying in middle school. I've written Biome Lock, the first in a (completed) alien invasion series. The first book has been published, the others on the way. Besides Biome Lock, I've published The Accidental Insurgent, a dystopian standalone, and three books in a series called The Chronicles of Ziel DeLaine. I have many more published books that I am more than happy to expand on if needed. I can speak to your audience on any topic under the umbrella of writing and publishing books, particularly as a teen author. I also enjoy speaking about using the app TikTok to sell books, as I have amassed well over 50,000 followers on the platform. Besides writing, I can speak about anti-bullying, specifically in middle school, and anything related to that topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben BrearleyHelping thoughtful, reflective (and often quieter) leaders show up, speak up and step up, without pretending to be someone they're not.I'm Ben Brearley: a leadership coach and trainer, podcast host, and creator of Thoughtful Leader.I specialise in working with quieter, people-focused leaders who care about their teams, making an impact and doing a good job - but often doubt themselves or feel overwhelmed by the demands of leadership.Early in my own leadership career I struggled with many of the challenges of being a quieter leader: Overthinking, self-doubt, avoiding conflict, and wondering if I really belonged in a leadership role. What I learned over time (and now help other leaders do) is how to put that baggage aside and lead in your way without pretending to be someone you're not.I started my career in IT as a software developer, and then held leadership roles (including team leadership, middle-management, project and program management and consulting) for 16 years before I moved into leadership coaching, training and facilitation, and I've been publishing leadership articles and podcasts since 2014.My passion is helping people understand themselves better and gain self-acceptance so they can lead effectively and with confidence. I am also quite pragmatic, and try to help people avoid falling into a victim mindset, overthinking, worrying or constantly ruminating on potential problems. I call this area of my work "useful thinking" and have created several reflection tools to help people do this. When I'm a guest on a podcast, I'm quite casual and easy-going and try to bring down-to-earth, practical insights that help listeners feel supported, and capable. I also deliver leadership training, so I know a bunch of tools and theories that might be helpful too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donovan PyleHealth Insurance Whistleblower & Author of "Fixing Healthcare: How Executives Can Save Their People, Their Business, and the EconomyDonovan Pyle: Health Insurance Whistleblower Dismantling the $300 Billion Scam. I broke ranks to expose the industry's dirty secrets, and now I'm leading the fight against health insurance and healthcare waste. As a CEO, author, and advocate, I empower businesses to reclaim what's theirs and transform their employee benefits. Ready to expose the truth behind the healthcare insurance racket and find real solutions for change? Let's talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colleen Robinson And Dana PembertonFounders behind The Digital Dojo, The Black Belt Mind (TBBM), Your Integral Medicine (YIM), NAP (New Agreement Process), and The White Belt MindIn a world where people are struggling to maintain their wellness, navigate trauma, and find their true path to healing, Dana Pemberton and Colleen Robinson are on a mission to change the narrative—one person, one group, and one business at a time!Together, they are the powerhouse duo and Founders of The Digital Dojo, The Black Belt Mind (TBBM), NAP (New Agreement Process) and YIM (Your Integral Medicine). With the collective goal of making wellness, healing, and personal evolution normalised and accessible to everyone.A Powerhouse of Expertise and Experience:Dana, a martial artist turned life coach and consultant, developed the Black Belt Mind as a transformative tool to help individuals and organizations shift their mindset, make empowered choices, and embrace change. Dana's journey from a martial arts dojo owner and athlete to a consultant on change management and personal empowerment is the foundation of The Black Belt Mind. His teachings help individuals navigate challenges with simplicity and power. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are honored to welcome Leilani Gastelum Valenzuela as our guest on Abstract Essay, where creativity meets thought. Leilani is a visionary painter whose work transcends the boundaries of form and color, evoking deep emotion and introspection. Her latest series invites viewers into a dreamlike realm of layered textures and symbolic imagery, reflecting both personal and collective experiences. In this episode, we explore the inspirations behind her art, her unique creative process, and how she uses painting as a powerful medium of storytelling and self-expression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kristy Bullock is a visionary artist whose work explores the interplay between emotion, identity, and abstraction. With a style that transcends conventional boundaries, her pieces invite viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with the deeper layers of the human experience. As a guest on Abstract Essay, Kristy shared her creative journey, the inspirations behind her work, and how art can be a profound form of intellectual and emotional expression. Her presence on the show added a rich, visual dimension to our ongoing conversation about ideas, identity, and imagination. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My name is Coleman ChartersI love painting and creating. I am a Phoenix/Arizona native. I grew up surrounded by horses and farms. I am a contemporary collage artist who has enjoyed making clothing and other art products. I enjoy traditional western topics such as “west themes” cowboys, shootouts, horses.The Artist name “WHYTHO” started out as a small scribbling I would write at the top of all my homework during high school. After a while I would start writing it on the walls of my job location. I wasn't happy with life and was unsure of what I wanted to do with it. Sooner or later, people started noticing my tag and I ran with it. My teachers and managers would ask what it meant and I had nothing to say except that it brought me random curious joy.I decided then to make some shirts and stickers to represent WHYTHO. People at my high school started to buy and spread the brand until I became first recognizable by my “brand” and then second by my actual name when it came to outgoings and my social life. I enjoyed this and ran with it some more. I went on to sell more clothing until I went to college for painting and digital media. I found that I enjoy selling physical art just as much as I enjoy selling my original products.WHYTHO now represents my passion for art and anything outside the “norm”.My art business has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ANNA KRIEGBorn and raised in Fargo, North Dakota, Anna went to North Dakota State University for a Bachelor's of Science in Art emphasizing in painting. She also minored in Public Relations and Advertising, then attended Moorhead Community and Technical College for Certificate of Completion in Graphic Design Technology. Starting out her professional career in marketing in the real estate / home builder world for two years, Anna moved to Phoenix, Arizona in pursuit of exploring her career opportunities and adventures. Living in Phoenix for over seven years now Anna works in marketing and business development for a civil engineering firm. In her free time, Anna spends it hiking, traveling, relaxing with her husband and animals, and painting. Spending a lot of time outdoors, I get most of my inspiration from plants, animals, landscapes, and meditation. My paintings can vary from realistic to abstract expressionism. I love exploring different ideas, styles, and techniques and viewers will probably notice this in my eclectic portfolio. Usually, my choice in colors or use of thick paint can tie my various ideas/experimental paintings together. I am currently obsessed with the color field movement and for the past decade I have been even more obsessed with Larry Poons' works. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sall Cosenza's painting of Arizona is a vivid tribute to the state's untamed beauty and cultural richness. With a masterful blend of warm earth tones and bold, expressive strokes, she captures the striking contrast between the sun-drenched desert plains and the deep shadows cast by towering rock formations. Her canvas tells a story of Arizona's soul—from the iconic saguaro cacti reaching skyward to the mesmerizing glow of a desert sunset. Cosenza's artistic vision brings out the timeless stillness and spiritual energy of the Southwest, inviting viewers to feel the heat of the land, the silence of the open sky, and the deep connection between nature and place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Preserving plants and animals in the face of climate change is crucial for maintaining the balance of our ecosystems and the health of the planet. As global temperatures rise, habitats are shifting or disappearing, threatening countless species with extinction. Protecting biodiversity means safeguarding the forests, wetlands, oceans, and grasslands that provide shelter and food for wildlife. It also involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting conservation efforts, and restoring damaged ecosystems. By taking action now, we help ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in natural beauty and ecological harmony. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creating sketches for paintings is an essential step in the artistic process, serving as a foundational tool that guides artists from initial concept to completed artwork. Through sketching, artists explore composition, proportions, light, and shadow, often refining ideas and experimenting freely without the pressure of permanence. These preliminary drawings allow the painter to visualize the final piece, test different arrangements, and solve potential artistic challenges before applying paint to canvas. Additionally, sketches capture spontaneous inspirations and emotions, preserving the initial creative impulse. By investing time in thoughtful, well-developed sketches, artists ensure clarity in their vision, ultimately enhancing the depth, quality, and cohesiveness of their finished paintings.

Creating paintings within the autism community is a powerful and expressive form of communication, allowing individuals to explore and share their inner worlds in a non-verbal, sensory-friendly way. Art offers a safe and inclusive space where people on the autism spectrum can engage with color, texture, and form to process emotions, reduce anxiety, and build confidence. Whether through structured art programs or freeform painting sessions, this creative outlet nurtures self-expression, celebrates unique perspectives, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. By encouraging artistic exploration, we not only support emotional and cognitive development but also amplify the voices of those whose stories are often told through brushstrokes rather than words.

Creating a series of paintings is an artistic journey that allows for deeper exploration of a theme, emotion, or concept over multiple works. Unlike a single standalone piece, a series enables the artist to develop a visual narrative, experiment with variations in style, and refine their creative voice. The process often begins with research and brainstorming, identifying a central idea—whether it's nature, human emotion, abstract forms, or social commentary. From there, the artist sketches compositions, selects a consistent color palette, and determines the unifying elements that will connect each piece while allowing for individuality within the series. As the paintings evolve, new interpretations and perspectives may emerge, enriching the overall story. A well-executed series not only showcases technical skill but also invites viewers into a more immersive experience, encouraging them to engage with the work on multiple levels.

Creating a painting is a deeply personal and expressive process that begins with inspiration and vision. It starts with selecting a subject or theme, whether drawn from nature, emotion, or imagination. The artist chooses a canvas or surface and gathers materials such as brushes, paints, and palette knives. With the first strokes, the composition takes shape, guided by color theory, light, and texture. Layers of paint build depth and emotion, each detail adding to the story being told. Whether through bold, abstract forms or delicate realism, a painting evolves, capturing the artist's thoughts and feelings in a tangible, visual form.

Creating paintings is a deeply expressive and transformative process that allows artists to translate emotions, ideas, and perspectives onto a canvas. Whether through bold strokes of color, delicate details, or abstract forms, painting serves as a powerful medium for storytelling and self-discovery. The process involves not only technical skills like composition, shading, and texture but also an intuitive connection between the artist and their vision. From choosing the right materials to experimenting with different techniques, each painting becomes a unique reflection of the artist's inner world. Beyond personal fulfillment, paintings have the ability to evoke emotions, inspire change, and connect people across cultures and generations, making art an essential part of human expression.

Creating a painting is a deeply personal and expressive process that allows artists to bring their imagination to life on canvas. It begins with inspiration—whether drawn from nature, emotions, personal experiences, or abstract ideas. Artists often start by sketching a rough composition to outline their vision, considering elements such as perspective, lighting, and subject matter. Choosing the right medium is also crucial, as different paints—such as oil, acrylic, or watercolor—offer unique textures and drying times that influence the final outcome.Once the initial concept is established, the painting process moves into layering and color application. Artists blend colors carefully to create depth, contrast, and mood, often using various brush techniques to achieve different textures and effects. Light and shadow play a significant role in bringing a painting to life, giving it a sense of realism or abstraction, depending on the style. Patience is key, as building up layers and refining details can take time, especially in complex compositions.

The Chrysler Building, an Art Deco masterpiece rising above the New York City skyline, serves as a striking inspiration for painting. Its sleek, tapering silhouette, adorned with gleaming stainless steel and intricate geometric patterns, embodies a fusion of elegance and ambition. The building's iconic terraced crown, resembling sunbursts, plays with light and shadow, creating a dynamic contrast that captivates the eye. Whether depicted in the soft hues of a sunrise, the golden glow of dusk, or the deep blues of a midnight cityscape, the Chrysler Building symbolizes progress, innovation, and artistic grandeur. Capturing its form on canvas allows artists to explore themes of aspiration, urban beauty, and the timeless allure of architectural artistry.

The idea of being strangers to ourselves reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of human identity. Often, we operate on autopilot, influenced by habits, societal expectations, and unconscious patterns, without fully understanding the motivations and emotions that drive us. This disconnect can make us feel unfamiliar even in our own minds, as if parts of who we are remain hidden or unexplored. Moments of introspection, self-reflection, or unexpected life events can uncover aspects of ourselves that we never knew existed—both strengths and vulnerabilities. Embracing this journey of self-discovery allows us to bridge the gap, fostering a deeper understanding of our true selves and the complexities that make us human.