Boldly Stated

Send us a textIt wasn't actually about the coffee.It was about being real — and what happens when leaders stop performing and start actually connecting. In this episode, I unpack the egg white moment that sparked 80,000+ views… and why it resonated so deeply. We'll talk about the pressure to be polished, the power of sharing the unfiltered truth, and why being human is one of the most strategic things you can do as a leader. If you've ever screwed something up and chose not to hide it?That's not a failure.That's leadership. ps. If you want to join the Friday F*ckup conversations, find me on LinkedIn! Most of the week we talk about how to be Strategically Unruly, but on Fridays, we share when it all goes wrong.

Send us a textWhat happens when you drop the filter and say exactly what you're thinking? In this explosive episode of Get Unruly, I reveal how a single post with an F-bomb turned into a viral sensation - not because of the swearing, but because of the raw, unfiltered truth. Learn how breaking the rules can set you free, why playing it safe is killing your authenticity, and how one moment of radical honesty can change everything. Warning: Contains strategic profanity and zero apologies.

Send us a textYou're not broken. You're not bored. But something feels off — and it won't go away. You're still showing up. Still performing. Still carrying the room. But under the surface? There's a quiet pull. A sense of… unsomething. That pull? It's not a problem. It's a signal. And what happens next — the voice in your head that says:“Be realistic. Don't ruin a good thing. Now's not the time.” That's the rulebook. In this episode, I'll show you how to spot the invisible rules that are limiting your leadership — even if everything looks great on paper. If you've been feeling the quiet tension between the life you built and the person you actually are… this is your starting point. And next week, we'll dive into Radical Clarity — the first step in the Strategic Unruliness™ framework.Did this episode help you discover one of the rules limiting you? I'd love to hear!Email me: kim@kimbolourtchi.com or DM me on LinkedIn

Send us a textShe's been on the mic with me before — but never quite like this.In this powerful return episode, I sit down with my daughter, Samantha, for a raw, unscripted conversation about something we've both lived: the pressure to shrink.To dim our light. To tone it down. To make ourselves smaller — so other people feel more comfortable.We talk about what that's looked like in our lives, how it shows up differently across generations, and what it actually costs — in confidence, creativity, connection.And then we talk about what happens when we finally stop.This isn't just about speaking up. It's about taking up space. In rooms, in relationships, in the world.If you've ever held back who you really are — this episode will hit home.Press play. Then ask yourself: Where are you still shrinking? And what if you didn't?Connect:kim@kimbolourtchi.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-bolourtchi/Learn more:www.kimbolourtchi.com

Send us a textIn this raw and electrifying episode, entrepreneur Frankie Russo reveals the counterintuitive secret to success: radical generosity. After hitting rock bottom with addiction and rebuilding his life, Frankie discovered what he calls the "limitless drug" - helping others unconditionally. Learn how embracing failure, releasing ego, and serving without expectation can transform your life, business, and purpose. Frankie's unfiltered journey from homeless shelters to multiple successful exits will challenge everything you think you know about growth, success, and personal transformation. Prepare for an unruly conversation that will: Shatter your myths about successReveal why failure is your greatest teacherUnlock the power of unconditional givingUnderstand how serving others can be your ultimate highIf you're ready to break free from traditional thinking and create real, meaningful impact, this episode is your wake-up call. Frankie's insight is legit rocket fuel! Watch episode on YoutubeAbout Frankie Russo:Frankie Russo is a visionary in authenticity, imagination and growth. An entrepreneur with a proven track record for using innovative methods to unlock rapid growth. Russo has led multiple companies to remarkable growth landing on the Inc. 500/5000 list 8 years in a row, including 60X growth in three years of his tech company 360ia, leading to an acquisition by a Fortune 500 company. Organizations that Russo has collaborated with who have embraced his “Love Your Weird” movement were able to adapt, innovate and grow through massive uncertainty and change. In his latest work Russo shares the critical unlocks for driving unprecedented and continuous growth by leading with authenticity, imagination and generosity.He is the author of two best-selling books and a sought-after speaker known for transforming organizational cultures and inspiring individual and corporate growth. His keynote experiences are tailored, experiential, and full of actionable insights for fostering a culture of authenticity, imagination and collaboration to unlock breakthrough results and extraordinary transformation and growth. Frankie's highest calling is his family, and he happily lives with his wife and six children in Louisiana.www.frankierusso.com

Send us a textIn this raw, unfiltered episode, Kim Bolourtchi exposes the invisible rule that's been keeping high-achievers stuck: The lie that wanting more makes you ungrateful.Desire isn't selfish — it's sacred. And silencing it in the name of “being content” is the surest way to shrink your power.If you've ever felt a quiet whisper that this isn't it — that there's more for you — this is your permission to stop pushing it down… and start listening.__________What invisible rules are you breaking? We'd love to know! Text us, or email Kim:kim@kimbolourtchi.comwww.kimbolourtchi.com

Send us a textIn this episode, Janice Burt shares her inspiring journey from being a rule-following people pleaser to becoming strategically unruly. She discusses the courage it took to break free from the prison of fear, including publishing a memoir that revealed family secrets, to competing in a body building competition, to running a marathon. Janice offers powerful insights on overcoming limiting beliefs, the freedom in self-acceptance, and the ongoing process of personal growth. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to live more authentically and confront their own fears.Connect with Janice:janice@janiceburt.comhttps://onefearperyear.com/

Send us a textIn this episode, host Kim Bolourtchi sits down with Chris Jordan, a former top podcast producer and content strategist for thought leaders. Chris shares his insights on why it's so important for everyone to uncover and share their impactful stories - even if they don't see themselves as natural storytellers.Chris explains how the most meaningful stories often come from our everyday experiences and challenges, and he provides practical tips for how to identify and craft these stories to make a real difference in people's lives. Whether you're looking to share your story through content, a podcast, or simply in your day-to-day conversations, this episode will inspire you to start uncovering the life-changing narratives you have to offer. Don't miss Chris' genius in action as he helps Kim workshop a vulnerable story from her own life that she can turn into an empowering post. If you've been hesitant to put yourself out there, this conversation will give you the push you need to start sharing your authentic voice with the world.ABOUT CHRIS JORDAN: Chris Jordan is a storytelling coach helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses by telling impactful stories. He's a former top podcast producer and content strategist for thought leaders like Lewis Howes, Ben Nemtin, Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Daymond John and many more. Chris believes that everyone has life-changing stories to be told and he's here to help you learn how to uncover them. When he's not helping with stories, he's playing drums or spending time with his wife and 5 cats!If you want to connect with Chris, send him a DM on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/imchrisjordan/

Send us a textGet Unruly returns for a 5th Season with Cait Donovan, host of the top global podcast: "Fried, the Burnout Podcast." In this episode, Cait shares how she's harnessed resentment to uncover her true needs and boundaries, challenging societal expectations along the way.Discover Cait's unconventional approach to life and business decisions, and learn how to use your own inner rebel to build a fulfilling life on your own terms. Listeners will walk away with a fresh perspective on the power of resentment and strategies for prioritizing self-care over people-pleasing.About Cait:Cait Donovan, host of "FRIED. The Burnout Podcast" and author of "The Bouncebackability Factor," merges Biobehavioral Sciences and Chinese Medicine to promote emotional intelligence and combat burnout. Her keynotes offer transformative insights and real-world solutions, making her a sought-after speaker for leading global organizations.Get in touch with Cait: https://caitdonovan.com https://friedtheburnoutpodcast.comhttps://linkedin.com/in/caitdonovanspeaks https://instagram.com/caitdonovanspeaks https://youtube.com/@caitdonovanspeaks

Do you tune out your significant other when you are tired?Do you wonder why your partner rarely seems to hear what you actually said? Do you get SO frustrated that they have time for stupid cat videos but not a 5 minute conversation with you? If you ever wonder why listening to each other is so  freaking difficult... this episode is for you. In this candid and often hilarious episode, Kim and Ray break down common communication challenges many couples face, and offer solutions for improving (and actually hearing) your conversations.A MUST listen episode!

We are told to be authentic and confident, but to go ahead and "fake it til you make it" if needed. Although widely accepted and even catchy to say, "fake it til you make it" is actually terrible advice, undermining the very things it is supposed to help you achieve. In this week's fiery episode, Kim and Ray hotly debate exactly why it is so damaging, and what to consider instead. Listen in. 

Changing directions is really hard, especially when you've already invested a lot.It can be tempting to stick with the status quo- even when you know it isn't working. In this candid episode with guest Nick Bolourtchi, we talk about what it takes to pivot, and why it matters. If you have ever contemplated making a change when you are already pretty far down the road, this episode is for you.________Have a comment or feeback? Reach out to Kim at kim@boldlystated.com.If you like Boldly Stated, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts.

With one month left until college graduation, senior Samantha Bolourtchi gets real about how she's feeling. In this vulnerable and honest conversation, Sam speaks truth about her college experience interrupted by the pandemic, and the ways it has shaped her. Unrehearsed and barely edited, this is one of my favorite conversations to date. 

85% of us walk around feeling, at some point or another, like we can't show the world who we truly are. For a long time, I was part of that statistic, while in complete denial about the toll it was taking. The reason we feel the need to hide parts of ourselves, and the solution, are not what you think. Listen in as Kim and Ray get real, and talk candidly about imposter phenomenon.____Tickets to power hour

Have you ever said something clearly- and had someone react in a way that leaves you baffled and confused? You might have wondered just HOW they could be so clueless. You wouldn't be alone.  And.... it might not be a them issue at all.  In the humorous (and personal) premiere of Season 4 of Boldly Stated, Ray and I unpack miscommunication, at work and at home.  Listen in, and decide if you are really as clear as you think. 

According to an op ed this weekend, telling new graduates to seek "passion and purpose in their work" is the "worst advice" we can give them.  In 12 minutes, I attempt to shred every part of this ridiculous argument.  Listen in, and decide for yourself. 

We've all had those moments when your mind goes blank under pressure. You start to panic- trying to recall what you were thinking about, or what you were going to say or do next.  The harder you think about it, grasping for recollection, the worse it gets. What if there was something you could do to regroup and calm down in that moment that didn't involve thinking at all?Fortunately... there is. Listen in to this week's conversation with my brilliant Glowe Connective colleague Ariana Jahja, where we share proven strategies for accessing confidence and power under pressure. Connect with Ariana: Instagram: Ariana_Jahja LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariana-jahja-a8412687/ Connect with Kim: Instagram: kimbolourtchi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-bolourtchi/And of course... Glowe:Instagram: gloweconnectivewww.gloweconnective.com

If you believe that your life will really improve once you achieve work-life balance,  you need to hear this week's Boldly Stated episode. Whether you are running yourself in circles trying to find it, or holding it up as the ultimate goal,  you need to know the truth. Work-life balance isn't a real thing. Doesn't exist. Can't be achieved.  Listen in to learn why, and to learn what will bring the fulfillment you seek. 

I could never have imagined what would happen when I finally quit Facebook. If only I would have known sooner. Listen in for the true story behind what took me over the edge, and what happened next. 

Have you ever wondered why so many people are hungry in a country that has an abundance of food, or examined your own beliefs about who deserves to be fed and who doesn't?  My conversation this week with Tracey Selingo, Founder of Fork Over Love, is bound to open your eyes and hopefully, your heart. Since its inception on January 8, 2021, Fork Over Love has recruited 64 restaurant partners, 36 host sites, and 166 volunteers who have served over 19,000 meals. At the same time they are feeding their neighbors like family, Fork Over Love has reinvested $191,480 into the local restaurant community as of February 15, 2022. To learn more, go to www.forkoverlove.org

Dr. Mark Scheperle, an Internal Medicine physician and Infectious Disease specialist,  joins Kim Bolourtchi to talk about PrEP, and the life saving benefits of Pre-Exposure prevention.  This 15 minute conversation is informative, sometimes shocking (wait until you hear these statistics), thought provoking, and inspiring. Knowledge is Power.  Listen in. Show resources:Dr. Scheperle's practice is University Club Medical.Some PrEP Clinics in St. Louis:Wash UPlanned Parenthood of the St. Louis RegionSSM Health's ID ClinicA list of Providers in MissouriPrEP providers in Missouri

If you are needing a shot of inspiration, a strong dose of faith, and to remember what a world with hope, joy and goodness can look like, listen to this conversation with my student, Kyle Conston.  He says his wisdom is not his own, and I believe him. Listen for yourself.  

I am not to blame for your excessive pornography and video game habits any more than I am to blame if I am the victim of a sexual assault.  Josh Hawley has it all wrong, and dangerously so. Listen in as Ray Bolourtchi and I unpack the meaning behind Hawley's call to "fight the attack on men," and  why we can't ignore it.

Following a string of student suicides (including two at St. Louis University), several universities across the country are closing for a mental health day. It is no secret that college students are struggling like never before. I sat down with my students on Friday to find out what is really going on, and gained a better understanding of the sources of their anxiety and overwhelm.I can really relate. Listen in. 

Being brave and taking risks is an essential key to succeeding big. As much as it sucks, you have to fail. But what happens when you do? How do you get up and move on? In this week's episode, Kim shares a 3 part strategy for moving past failure. Listen in. If you love the podcast, leave us a review or stars on Apple Podcast! Interested in learning a powerful new skill in 3 hours or less? check out www.boldlystated.com

This week, we are talking about the ways assumptions contribute to relationship meltdowns, and an easy way to avoid them. Listen in! ____ If you want to check out our online professional and personal development courses, CLICK HERE. or go to www.boldlystated.comIf you are enjoying the podcast, please take a minute and rate us on Apple Podcasts!

 "I'm a perfectionist" is one of the WORST possible job interview answers you can give. Although many people still believe perfection is the ultimate standard,  research has revealed that perfectionism is damaging to those who chase it, and creates a host of problems in the workplace. Listen in to discover the top 5 things employers hear when you tell them you are a "perfectionist"- and why it is often a deal breaker.____________________To Overcome Paralyzing Perfection in 3 hours or less, check THIS out.

Samantha and her service dog Raven are an unlikely pair. People can't imagine why Sam needs Raven- or what Raven does for her.  Sam candidly shares her own mental health struggles, and lets us know that what you see on the outside doesn't always paint an accurate picture of what is happening on the inside.Check on your strong friends, she says Listen in, and feel free to share this episode.You never know who needs to hear this._________If you are loving the show, give us 5 stars or leave a review on Apple Podcasts!!!!  Thank you:)___________Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for people in distress. Prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.1-800-273-TALK (8255) TTY: 1-800-799-4889 suicidepreventionlifeline.orgSAMHSA's National HelplineThis Helpline provides 24-hour free and confidential treatment referral and information about mental and/or substance use disorders, prevention, and recovery in English and Spanish.1-800-662-HELP (4357) TTY: 1-800-487-4889 samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helplineText: MHFA at 741741

What if a decision you believe has nothing to do with you turns out to impact the person you love most in the world?  This conversation with Dr. Heather Kort will change the way you drive your car home today, and open your eyes to our interconnectedness in this moment- whether we like it or not. A must listen from beginning to end. Listen to your favorite episodes from Season 1 and Season 2  at www.boldlystated.com, or on apple podcasts, spotify, google, stitcher, or your other favorite podcast channel.Like the show? Give us 5 stars on Apple Podcasts, and share with your friends.  

We are supposed to be on a break between seasons of Boldly Stated. But, I couldn't pass up the chance to have this powerful conversation, and I definitely couldn't wait to share it with you.  In one of my favorite episodes of all time, Sam, Nick, and Zoe share their unfiltered perspectives on navigating the "pandemic" school year as students and young adults.Samantha is a sophomore in college, Zoe is a freshman in college, and Nick is a senior in high school (graduating tomorrow!).   Oh, and in the spirit of full disclosure, Sam and Nick are my kids.  This episode is dedicated to all the students and teachers. It wasn't always pretty. But, we did it! 

In the final episode of Season 2, Kim shares a unique perspective on the escalating battle over diversity and inclusion education in public schools. Some Rockwood parents really don't want it. The district is committed to providing it. The truth is, the stakes couldn't be higher for the kids.Listen in.

He needed a shock, it might have saved him. But it wasn't available. I can't say why. It was the perfect storm of everything going wrong. Will someone take action to make sure it doesn't happen again? The answer lies in how close it lands. 

I invited my law partner and spouse, Raymond Bolourtchi to be a guest on the show to talk about immigration.  As I was about to press "record," we decided to spontaneously change the topic - to why it is difficult to work with your spouse. Buckle up.... 

"Ok, Karen." We all know what it means - more or less. But have you ever wondered WHY it is so easy to identify and label the behavior that qualifies? The answer might surprise you. 

Politeness is highly valued in American culture, and for generations, children have been taught to be polite at all costs. What happens, though, when research reveals a direct connection between politeness and sexual assault? This episode will make you question our cultural priorities, and the ways we instill fundamental values. CAUTION: This episode discusses sexual assault, and the culturally accepted communication practices that can leave individuals, particularly women and girls, vulnerable to being victimized.  To read the full research paper:https://cindykarnitz-11877.medium.com/politeness-communication-theory-metoo-8f97575bd11e

A few years ago, I got a scary but necessary lesson about the ways we contribute to our own suffering, and what to do about it. I hope it helps you as much as it helped me this week. Listen in.

I hated running my whole life. I was really bad at it. It was hard. So, like any rational person, I avoided it at all costs. Then, a year ago, I decided to try it again. The strangest thing happened.

In the midst of a crisis, a private citizen forms a non-profit that has served over 1500 meals in its first 3 weeks. An elected official chooses to hop on a plane to the Ritz in Cancun. Having a duty to serve doesn't mean you will, and an absence of one doesn't mean you won't. In fact, the title has nothing to do with it. Listen in to this week's episode of Boldly Stated to find out what makes the difference.... and why we should care.

If you have ever had an idea- but didn't pursue it because you didn't know how to make it happen- you MUST hear this story. Tracey Selingo, founder of Fork Over Love, shares how her idea to support restaurants struggling in the pandemic and feed the hungry in her community has resulted in 1100 meals being served just 6 weeks after organizing- and they are just beginning. This is a story about the power each of us has to make a difference, and the true power of love. Listen in, and help if you can.www.forkoverlove.org

My grandpa used to say "it doesn't matter if you win or lose, it's how you play the game." And I was like, "um, nope. Winning matters. Otherwise, what is the point of playing?" Listen in for an inspiring perspective on winning at all costs, and losing with grace.

Deanna Dikeman started taking pictures of her parents' waving goodbye from their driveway in Iowa in 1991. What started as simply "a picture" has turned into a body of deeply impactful work that gently encourages us to capture the moments that matter. Deanna's photos have been showcased by Eren Orbey in the New Yorker magazine, and will be the subject of her upcoming book "Leaving and Waving." Our conversation is honest, insightful, and a beautiful wake up call. Listen in. Additional Link for Deanna's upcoming book: Direct link to book at publisher’s web site in France: https://chosecommune.com/book/deanna-dikeman-leaving-and-waving/Deanna's website and Instagram:https://deannadikeman.comhttps://www.instagram.com/deannadikeman/

The fear of being a failure can be paralyzing - maddeningly so. This week's episode might just be the thing you need to to hear to put things in a new perspective. Listen in. Questions, comments, thoughts? You can always reach me at: kim@boldlystated.com. I love hearing from you.

A must listen episode about taking a stand and choosing sides when you don't want to do either.

Josef Scherer is not your typical dog trainer. He specializes in working with aggressive dogs, and he has the scars to prove it. In our conversation, Josef reveals why he risks his own safety to train dogs that bite, and shares stories that will both shock you, and fill you with gratitude. You can reach him at: josef@topdog.com

We all have high hopes for 2021... and it's tempting to go full steam ahead with setting aggressive resolutions and goals. But if 2020 taught us anything- it's how quickly our plans can be foiled in the midst of a global pandemic. In this week's episode, I share a proven trick for setting resolutions that have a real chance of succeeding - no matter what happens next. Wouldn't that be so nice for a change? Listen in.

If you are struggling to stay positive, and maybe feeling anxious and depressed but not wanting anyone to know, you aren't alone. My student bravely started a conversation that many others have eagerly joined. Listen in.

The Season 2 premiere of Boldly Stated reveals why staying neutral on important issues is far from noble. A respectful conversation doesn't require you to mute yourself- quite the contrary is true. Tune in for some blunt truth about why you must speak up.

If you are struggling as Thanksgiving approaches this year, even a little, listen in. This 10 minute bonus episode of Boldly Stated might just help you shift your perspective in the very way you need it most. Or, you might decide I'm full of it and dig in deeper. Either way- the message is always bold, and the choice is always yours. For more: www.boldlystated.com

Have you ever been really desperate to be positively judged? You want to prove that you are worthy, and you are certain that will happen through recognition and approval. You are probably willing to do whatever it takes- if someone will just tell you exactly what that is. The truth is that chasing approval will not land you anywhere good. This week, I share my journey as a competitive Ballroom dancer to demonstrate exactly how I freed myself from a lifelong, toxic relationship with judgment. I hope it helps you too. If you are enjoying the show, please rate it, review it, and share it! For more, visit: www.boldlystated.com

Last week, I allowed a class discussion to go off the rails. I didn't mean for it to happen- but it's amazing how quickly things can deteriorate when emotions are involved. And let's be honest- right now- EMOTIONS ARE INVOLVED! In this week's episode, learn what I did wrong, and 5 steps to position yourself for a really great conversation with .... are you ready?...... someone you completely disagree with. I know. It seems impossible. But trust me, you can do it. Listen in for some of the most candid advice you have probably ever received, and if you want a detailed PDF of the 5 steps, hop on my mailing list at www.boldlystated.com.

Are you noticing that your old ways of dealing with stress and anxiety are simply NOT WORKING right now? If you feel a bit like hitting your head on a brick wall- my friend Jill Farmer is here at the perfect time. In this week's episode, Jill shares 3 proven strategies for staying steady even as the world feels increasingly chaotic - and- she assures us- we are made for times like these. Listen in.