Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

Most people think their results come from circumstances.They don't.Your results come from your attitude, and your attitude isshaped by how you see yourself and your life.This episode breaks that down in a real and practical way.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Right before your breakthrough, there's a moment that feelslike fear, doubt, and uncertainty all at once.This is the terror barrier. And most people turn back here.In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize it and movethrough it.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Your comfort zone feels safe… but it might be the very thingkeeping you stuck.In this episode, we break down what the comfort zone reallyis, why so many people stay there, and what it actually takes to move beyond it into real growth.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

What if the problem isn't your circumstances… but how you'reseeing them?In this episode, we dive into perception and how yourinterpretation of events is shaping your results, your emotions, and your entire life.You'll begin to understand how powerful your thinking reallyis… and how to start shifting it.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Drama isn't always loud or obvious. Sometimes it's quiet,internal, and running your life without you even realizing it.In this episode, we break down what drama actually is, whereit comes from, and why it can keep you stuck even when everything on the outside looks fine.This is about awareness. Because once you see it, you can'tunsee it. And that's where your power begins.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Today's episode wraps up the series with equanimity.What if every person you encounter is worthy, valuable, anddeserving of respect, no matter the situation?Equanimity invites you to move beyond detachment, judgment, and being “right,” and instead see people as they are in this moment. It challenges you to stay present, even in discomfort, and to remain open rather than closed.This is not always easy work. But it is powerful.Where might you be disconnecting, dismissing, or dividinginstead of seeing the humanity in front of you?Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Today's episode explores joyfulness in a deeper way.Joy is not just happiness or positivity. It is the abilityto stay present with life as it is, even in the middle of grief, challenge, or uncertainty.This conversation invites you to notice where you may bebypassing real experiences in the name of “staying positive” or where comparison and envy are blocking your ability to celebrate others.True joy is not dependent on circumstances. It is found inconnection, presence, and the willingness to feel it all.Where might you be missing joy by avoiding what is right infront of you?Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Today's episode continues the exploration of the fourlimitless qualities with compassion.Compassion is not just helping. It is knowing when to offersupport, when to listen, and when to simply be present. And sometimes, it is also knowing when to step back.This episode challenges you to notice where compassion maybe turning into pity, overwhelm, or avoidance and where you may be running out of compassion altogether.Because true compassion includes yourself too.Where might you need to reset, create space, or showyourself a little more grace?Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Today's episode dives into the first of the four limitlessqualities: loving kindness.Not the version of love rooted in intensity, expectation, orneed, but a deeper practice of respect, care, and honoring another person as they are.Where does love flow freely in your life, and where does itfeel stuck?This episode invites you to look honestly at your relationships and notice where attachment, expectations, or even judgment may be getting in the way. Because real loving kindness is not about control. It is about presence, respect, and choice.A simple reflection: where is there an opportunity for youto grow in how you love?Michelle@GrowBy1.com

This week's episode comes from a place of rest, reflection,and real-life insight.After time away, Michelle returns with a powerful reminderof the four limitless qualities: loving kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. This is not about perfection, but awareness. How are you showing up in your relationships, both close and distant?As you listen, consider what patterns are revealing themselves and who you truly want to be.Growth can feel uncomfortable before it feels freeing. Thisis your invitation to lean in.Michelle@GrowBy1.com

This week, we continue moving through the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as relevant and impactful today as when they were first shared.As I give myself space to rest, I'm also honoring somethingimportant… not just that rest is needed, but that it's part of a natural rhythm we're all living inside of.In this episode, we explore the Law of Rhythm.This law reminds us that everything moves in cycles… highsand lows, expansion and contraction, energy and rest.And the truth is… you can't escape it.But you can learn to work with it.You'll begin to see how your emotional states, your energylevels, and even your life circumstances follow patterns… and how resisting those patterns often creates more struggle.We talk about:How to honor both the highs and the lowsWhy chasing constant “high energy” leads to burnoutAnd how finding your own rhythm creates stability and peaceYou'll also be invited to look at your own cycles…throughout your day, your seasons, and even your relationships… so you can begin to move with them instead of against them.This episode is a powerful reminder that you're not meant tobe “on” all the time… and that there is wisdom in every phase.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue moving through the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as relevant and impactful today as when they were first shared.As I give myself space to rest, I'm also coming back tothese deeper principles… because they continue to meet us right where we are and show us what's needed next.In this episode, we explore the Law of Gender… also known asthe Law of Creation.And no… this isn't about male and female.This is about understanding the balance between twoessential energies within you… often described as masculine and feminine, or more simply, goal and flow.You'll begin to see how everything you create requires both:Direction and actionReceptivity and intuitionToo much of one… and things feel forced or stuck.Too much of the other… and nothing fully comes to life.This conversation invites you to look at your own patterns:Where are you pushing too hard?Where are you holding back?And where might balance create something entirely different?We also explore how these energies show up in your dailylife… in your work, your relationships, your decisions, and even in how you care for yourself.Because real creation doesn't come from force or passivityalone… it comes from alignment.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before. Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue moving through the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as relevant and powerful today as when they were first shared.As I give myself space to rest, I'm also returning to thesedeeper conversations… because they remind us of what actually creates change.In this episode, we explore the Law of Attraction… but notin the way you may have heard it before.This isn't about vision boards or simply “thinkingpositive.”This is about understanding how your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape your vibration… and how that vibration influences what you experience and who you attract into your life.You'll begin to see why surface-level thinking isn't enough…and why real transformation requires deeper inner work.We talk about:How your internal state determines what you attractWhy you can't skip over lower emotions, but must move through themAnd how your relationships reflect your current level of energyYou'll also be invited to look at the people in your lifedifferently… who energizes you, who drains you, and what that might be showing you about your own growth.This episode brings the Law of Attraction back to its truth…not as a shortcut, but as a reflection of alignment.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue moving through the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as relevant and impactful today as when they were first shared.As I allow myself space to rest, I'm also coming back tothese foundational truths… because they continue to meet us exactly where we are.In this episode, we explore the Law of Polarity.At its core, this law reminds us that everything has anopposite… and that those opposites are not separate, but part of the same continuum.Hot and cold. Light and dark. Connected and disconnected.But what begins to shift is how you see them.Instead of thinking in terms of right and wrong… good andbad… you start to recognize degrees of difference. And in that space, something powerful opens up.Choice.You'll begin to see how your perspective shapes yourexperience, and how even small shifts in thinking can move you from one end of the spectrum to another.We also explore how your energy influences others more thanyou may realize… and how maintaining a higher level of awareness allows you to transform situations without force.This episode invites you to:Release rigid thinkingPlay with new perspectivesAnd begin shifting your internal dialogue in real timeBecause the moment you realize you are not stuck at one end… you gain the ability to move.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we're continuing to pull from the vault…revisiting teachings that are just as relevant and powerful today as when they were first shared.As I allow myself space to rest, I'm also leaning intosomething I know to be true… sometimes the most powerful growth comes from seeing familiar truths in a new way.In this episode, we explore the Law of Relativity.At its core, this law reminds us that everything isrelative… everything is shaped by what you compare it to.And that changes everything.Because the moment you shift your perspective… the meaningof your experience shifts too.You'll begin to see how the challenges in your life are notfixed in size or significance. They feel the way they do based on the lens you're using.We talk about how comparison can either trap you… or freeyou.How judgment, shame, and self-criticism keep you stuck in anarrow view… and how expanding your perspective opens up choice, growth, and possibility.This episode invites you to:Look at your challenges differentlyExpand the way you think about your circumstancesAnd begin asking a powerful question… what are all the other ways I could see this?Because when you give yourself more options… you giveyourself more power.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Over these weeks, I'm sharing pieces of a 12-week experiencedesigned to help you shift your thinking, your energy, and your results.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue moving through the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as relevant today as when they were first shared.As I give myself space to rest, I'm also honoring somethingimportant… that growth doesn't always require something new. Sometimes it requires coming back to what already works and going deeper.In this episode, we explore the Law of Action.This is where so many people get stuck.Some lean fully into thinking, visualizing, and“manifesting”… but never move. Others swing the opposite direction, constantly doing, pushing, striving… without reflection or alignment.This law invites you into something different.A rhythm of action, reflection, wisdom… and then new action.You'll begin to see how real growth happens when you partner with both your inner guidance and your outer steps. When you take what you receive and actually bring it into the physical world.We talk about what it means to be a true co-creator… notjust thinking about what you want, but participating in it.You'll also be challenged to look at:Where you may be overthinking instead of actingWhere you may be acting without intentionAnd where small, consistent steps could change everythingThis isn't about doing more. It's about doing what matters…and staying in motion.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Over these weeks, I'm sharing pieces of a 12-week experiencedesigned to help you reconnect with your power, your purpose, and your next step.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue our journey through the vault…bringing forward teachings that are just as alive and impactful today as when they were first recorded.As I give myself space to rest, I'm also honoring somethingdeeper… that this work doesn't lose its power over time. If anything, it meets you in a new way when you're ready for it.In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful andpractical laws of all: the Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Radiant Energy.At its core, this law reminds us that energy is alwaysmoving, always changing, always transforming. Nothing is ever truly still… and that includes you.You'll begin to see how ideas move from thought into form,how energy flows from higher levels into the physical world, and how you have the ability to influence and elevate the energy around you.This isn't just theory… it's something you can use in realtime.In your relationships.In difficult conversations.In moments where emotions feel heavy or stuck.You'll learn how higher energy transforms lower energy, andhow your presence, intention, and internal state can shift an entire environment… even without saying a word.This episode is an invitation to become more aware of theenergy you carry… and the energy you choose to transmit.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that may not have landed before.Over these weeks, I'm sharing pieces of a 12-week experiencedesigned to help you realign, reconnect, and remember the power you already have.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue pulling from the vault… revisitingteachings that are just as powerful and relevant today as they were years ago.As I give myself permission to rest and reset, I'm bringingforward these foundational conversations on the 12 Universal Laws… because truth like this doesn't expire. It meets you exactly where you are.In this episode, we explore one of the most profound andperspective-shifting principles: the Law of Divine Oneness.At its core, this law reminds us that everything is connected. Every thought, every feeling, every action sends a ripple through the whole.You'll begin to see how your energy is not isolated… it isconstantly interacting with and influencing the people and world around you. And just as importantly, you are being influenced too.This conversation invites you to move beyond separation andinto connection.To see people differently.To release the need for right and wrong.To shift from reacting… to becoming.We also explore what it means to truly live as a co-creator,how to access deeper awareness through calm and alignment, and how your presence alone can create impact far beyond what you “do.”Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There is adepth here that unfolds in new ways depending on where you are in your journey.Over these weeks, I'm sharing pieces of a 12-week experiencethat has helped so many reconnect with themselves, others, and something greater.Take what resonates. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we continue our journey through the vault…revisiting teachings that are just as powerful and relevant today as they were years ago.As I allow myself space to rest and reset, I'm bringingforward these foundational truths from the 12 Universal Laws… because they don't expire. They meet you exactly where you are, every time.In this episode, we explore one of the most misunderstoodyet life-shaping principles: the Law of Cause and Effect.On the surface, it seems simple. Do something, get a result.But this conversation goes deeper.You'll begin to see how this law operates not just in yourphysical world, but in your thoughts, your energy, and your spiritual growth. There is always a cause behind every effect… even when you don't yet understand it.We talk about personal responsibility in a way that isempowering, not blaming. You always have choice… but you are never separate from the consequences of those choices.This episode will challenge you to look at your lifedifferently:Where are you creating results intentionally?Where are you reacting instead of designing?And where might there be deeper lessons, patterns, or even tests asking you to grow?You'll also be invited to shift out of extremes, reconnectwith your purpose, and begin focusing on the causes that lead to the life you actually want.This isn't about perfection. It's about awareness… andalignment.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There issomething here for you now that wasn't there before.Over these weeks, I'm sharing pieces of a 12-week experiencethat has helped so many come back into alignment with themselves, their choices, and their path.Take what you need. Let it meet you where you are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

This week, we're doing something a little different… anddeeply intentional.I'm reaching back into the vault and bringing forwardteachings from a series I recorded years ago on the 12 Universal Laws. Why now? Because I'm tired. I'm honoring the need for rest and space… and at the same time, I know this truth: this work is timeless.These laws are not trends. They are not dependent onseasons. They are always at work, whether we are aware of them or not.In this first episode, we begin at the foundation.You'll be introduced to the deeper understanding of howthese laws operate in your life, the role of energy in everything you experience, and the powerful Law of Vibration. This is where it all begins.You'll hear why everything is energy, how your thoughts,emotions, and intentions are constantly sending out a signal, and how your lived experience is shaped not just by what happens to you, but how you align with what is already in motion.This episode is an invitation to move from living bydefault… to living by design.Even if you've heard this before, listen again. There is adepth here that meets you differently depending on where you are in your journey.We've taught this as a full 12-week experience before. Overthe next couple of weeks, I'll be sharing pieces of that journey with you, so you can reconnect, realign, and remember what's already within you.Take a breath. Let this land. And allow yourself to comeback into alignment.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CEU

What if the life you are living is based on a “map” that wasgiven to you long ago and you simply never questioned it?In this episode of Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life,Michelle explores the idea that most of us are living according to a mental world map created by our family, culture, beliefs, and early experiences. These patterns guide the majority of our thoughts and actions every day, often without us realizing it.But the powerful truth is this: you are not required to keepliving by the map you were handed.Michelle invites you to examine the beliefs, expectations,and assumptions shaping your life and consider what it would look like to intentionally create a new map. One built around your desires, growth, service, and purpose.If you have ever felt the pull to expand beyond the life youwere given, this episode will help you start exploring new territory.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

What if the pattern you keep seeing in your relationshipsisn't entirely your fault?In this reflective episode of Change Your Thinking,Change Your Life, Michelle explores a recurring pattern she has noticed in her relationships and the powerful realization that sometimes the story we tell ourselves may not be the whole truth.While personal growth often asks us to examine our own rolein repeated patterns, Michelle shares a more nuanced perspective. Sometimes the depth of your presence, love, or gifts can challenge others in ways they are not prepared for.This episode is an honest and vulnerable conversation aboutself awareness, reciprocity in relationships, and the importance of continuing to serve and love without losing yourself in the process.If you have ever questioned whether a relational patternmeans something is wrong with you, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective and a reminder to stay grounded in who you truly are.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

Is there really a reliable way to solve any problem?In this episode of Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life,Michelle breaks down a powerful five step framework that can be used to solve challenges in business, relationships, leadership, and everyday life. Drawing from her background in assessment, evaluation, and accountability, she explainswhy effective problem solving is both an art and a science.Michelle walks through the essential steps: identifying thereal problem, acknowledging the emotions involved, recognizing past successes, identifying the tools and resources that created those wins, and applying thosestrengths to the current challenge.When you understand this process, you gain a repeatablesystem for navigating obstacles and creating meaningful change quickly and effectively.This episode is a practical look at how coaching principlescan help individuals and teams move from confusion to clarity and action.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

Do you have to be an expert in something to coach someonethrough it?In this episode of Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life,Michelle shares another driving lesson with her daughter Elly that reveals a powerful truth about coaching. Even though Michelle has never personally backed into a parking space or parallel parked, she was still able to help Elly dramatically improve her parking skills. How? Through the power of coaching questions.Coaching is not about having the answers or being theexpert. It is about helping someone think, reflect, and discover their own solutions. By asking thoughtful questions and noticing patterns, powerful breakthroughs and learning can happen quickly.Michelle also explains why coaching is a life skill thatstrengthens communication, connection, and growth in families, workplaces, and everyday relationships.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

What if the reason you keep missing the mark in an area ofyour life has nothing to do with effort and everything to do with your point of reference?In this episode of Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life,Michelle shares a simple but powerful story about helping her daughter practice parking for her driving test. What started as a small driving lesson became a powerful insight about how often we unknowingly use unstable references in our thinking and decision making.Just like using a piece of trash instead of a tree as a visual marker while parking, we sometimes rely on opinions, guesses, or outdated beliefs to guide important areas of our lives.Michelle explores how coaching helps us identify thoseunstable reference points and replace them with something stronger, clearer, and more reliable so we can move toward our goals with greater confidence.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

In this episode, Michelle reflects on a powerful realizationthat emerged during the Michigan AEYC Annual Conference: her peace truly matters. After delivering a well received session and receiving meaningful feedback from longtime colleagues, she recognized that something had shifted.She was not just speaking well. She was fully at peace while doing it.That sense of peace showed up throughout the conference. Itwas present while speaking, during unexpected moments like getting stuck in an elevator, and even while new ideas for future work emerged.Michelle shares how operating from a place of peace allowscreativity, service, and success to flow more naturally. When you are grounded in your strengths and responding to the real needs of others, the work becomes easier and more meaningful.This episode is an invitation to reflect on your own peace.Does it matter to you, and what helps you protect it?Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

In this episode, Michelle shares another reflection from theMichigan AEYC Annual Conference and explores a powerful mindset shift for leaders, coaches, and anyone supporting others. Instead of focusing on what is “wrong,” she invites listeners to consider the strength based perspective ofasking what is “strong.”Many people label behaviors, decisions, or approaches aswrong, but often those actions simply reflect someone's current level of awareness or development. As Michelle explains, choice is a function of awareness. When people see more options, they can make stronger choices.Through conversations at the conference, coaching examples,and thoughtful questions, she demonstrates how shifting from criticism to curiosity opens new possibilities for growth.When you change the quality of your observations and thequestions you ask, you change your life.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

In this episode, Michelle shares another story from theMichigan AEYC Annual Conference and an exciting milestone. Her new book, 50 Questions to Be a More Impactful Coach, officially launched the same day the conference vendor booth opened, turning the event into an unexpected book signing celebration.The book focuses on questions coaches ask about their ownpractice so they can grow, reflect, and become more effective when helping others.During one of the conference sessions, another idea emerged.Michelle realized there is a growing need for a practical coaching handbook for early childhood education leaders who are placed in coaching roles but often receive little guidance on how to actually do the work.This episode becomes a reflection on purpose. What have youlived, learned, and mastered? What are people already asking you for help with? Those questions might be pointing you toward the impact you are meant to make.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

In this episode, Michelle shares a memorable and unexpectedstory from the Michigan AEYC Annual Conference. After finishing a packed speaking session, she and two friends chose the elevator instead of the escalator. What happened next turned into a 25 minute adventure stuck betweenfloors.Through laughter, phone calls for help, and a lot of problemsolving, the experience became more than just a funny conference story. Michelle reflects on several insights that came from the moment. Sometimes you can do everything right and still not get the outcome you expected. Fear has away of finding us, even when we try to avoid it. And perhaps most importantly, life reminds us how valuable it is to have people we can call when we need help.It is a lighthearted story with meaningful reminders aboutfear, friendship, and perspective.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

In this episode, Michelle shares a story from her experiencespeaking at the Michigan AEYC Annual Conference, where she has presented for 25 consecutive years. During a session that ended up being standing room only, she explored one of the biggest challenges leaders and coaches face: resistance inthe coaching process.Michelle explains the difference between the “front problem”people bring forward and the deeper “back problem” that often drives it. While many leaders jump in to solve the issue, real progress happens when people feel seen, heard, valued, noticed, and supported.She also introduces a simple three step coaching approach:Reality, Options, and Way Forward. When used consistently, this framework helps people think for themselves, take ownership of their solutions, and create meaningful change.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy

What if envy is not really about the other person at all?In this honest and reflective episode, Michelle exploreswhat it means when others admit they feel jealous or intimidated by her success. From launching books and leading programs to speaking internationally and building GrowBy1, she shares the surprising emotions that arise when comparison enters the room.But this conversation goes much deeper.Drawing from personal experiences, including years ofnavigating jealousy and punishment in her former marriage, Michelle unpacks the cost of shrinking yourself to make others comfortable. She challenges the idea that success should be hidden and reframes visibility as an invitation for others to grow and win.At the heart of this episode is one powerful truth: when youtruly love yourself, envy loses its grip.Michelle walks through practical indicators of self love... Envy can be a signal, not a sentence. Sometimes it simplyreveals a desire within you that needs attention. The key is not to let comparison pull you off your path, but to use it as information that brings you back to who you are.This episode invites you to remember your own mountain, your own calling, and your own awesomeness.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademyGrowBy1.com/CEU

What if you are already fully prepared for what is comingyour way?In this episode, Michelle shares a powerful personaldeclaration that has anchored her through opportunity, uncertainty, challenge, and growth:I am more than equal to any and every opportunity,experience, and situation that comes my way.From speaking at large conferences and launching books tonavigating deeply personal loss and the uncertainty of having a son in the Navy, Michelle reflects on what it means to trust your preparation, your resilience, and your inner strength.Some opportunities feel exciting. Others feel overwhelming.Some challenges stretch you professionally. Others break you open spiritually and emotionally. Yet in each moment, the question remains the same: Do you believe you are equal to what life is asking of you?Drawing on her experiences in leadership, coaching,motherhood, and research, Michelle explores how growth prepares you long before the moment arrives. Whether you are stepping into a new opportunity, facing uncertainty, or walking through something deeply personal, this episode invites you to consider a new truth about yourself.You are not behind.You are not unprepared.You are more than equal.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademyGrowBy1.com/CEU

What if the smallest things in your life are actually themost powerful?In this episode, Michelle reflects on the launch of her newbook, 50 Questions Coaches Ask to Be a More Impactful Coach, and what it represents. While speaking at the Michigan AEYC conference and celebrating 25 years of involvement, she pauses to consider a deeper truth: big outcomesalmost always begin with small, quiet questions.For Michelle, questions are more powerful than opinions,ideas, or even answers. The quality of your life and leadership is shaped by the quality of the questions you ask yourself and others. What are you asking? What are you looking for? What are you cultivating?She explores how unplanned moments of rest, reflection, andpresence often generate the most transformational insights. Drawing from leadership tools like the Eisenhower Matrix and the Kanban method, she challenges the assumption that constant activity equals productivity. Sometimes the most “unproductive” moments become the birthplace of your greatest impact.Whether you are coaching, leading, parenting, or buildingsomething meaningful, this episode invites you to examine how you treat the small things in your life. Because what looks small today may become everything tomorrow.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademyGrowBy1.com/CEU

Who decided that growth has to be fast to be valuable?In this episode, Michelle challenges the cultural pressureto accelerate everything, including personal and professional development. In a world obsessed with rapid results, quick wins, and early adoption, she asks a powerful question: Who said you have to grow fast?As the founder of Grow By 1 and a coach with more than 20years of experience, Michelle lives in the world of growth. Yet she has learned that depth often matters more than speed. Some growth looks dramatic and immediate. Other growth resembles a glacier. Slow, steady, and still moving.Michelle explores the difference between growing fast andgrowing deep. She reflects on her own evolution in coaching, leadership, neuroscience, and presence, and shares why integration over time creates maturity and wisdom that cannot be rushed.Whether you are developing as a coach, a leader, or simplyas a human being, this episode invites you to evaluate your own growth. Are you moving at someone else's pace, or your own? Are you chasing more, or cultivating deeper?You get to decide.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademyGrowBy1.com/CEU

What if spiritual maturity has less to do with isolation anddiscipline and more to do with how you show up in everyday life?In this episode, Michelle introduces the Greek word askesis,meaning strenuous training marked by discipline and even deprivation. It is often associated with ascetic practices and the kind of focused preparation athletes undergo for a single defining moment. But does spiritual growth reallyrequire deprivation, strict rules, or retreating from the world?Michelle offers another perspective.The true test of spiritual maturity is not whether you canfind peace in isolation. It is whether you can maintain peace while driving in traffic, navigating a difficult conversation, or standing in the middle of chaos. It is about becoming what she calls an ordinary saint, someone who practices stillness, presence, and peace in real life.Drawing on insights from Thomas Merton and her own livedexperiences, Michelle explores what it means to cultivate inner calm while remaining fully engaged in community, leadership, and everyday challenges.If your desire is to increase your peace, strengthen yourpresence, and grow in maturity in the way you relate to others, this episode will both challenge and encourage you.Michelle@GrowBy1.comGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademyGrowBy1.com/CEU

Impossible.In this episode, Michelle reflects on the word that hasfollowed her throughout her life. From surviving a stroke with a devastating prognosis to earning a PhD, building a thriving business, leaving an abusive marriage, raising healthy children, and blending deep strategy with spiritualinsight, she has heard it over and over again. That's impossible.And yet, here she is.Impossible is often just someone else's judgment based onlimited evidence. It is a projection of their box, their experience, their belief about what can or cannot be done. But today's reality may have once been yesterday's impossibility.What in your life right now was once “impossible”?And what are you currently calling impossible that might simply be your next level?Nothing is impossible. Sometimes it just takes courage,vision, and one faithful step at a time.Learn more about our newest course atGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy or reach out directly at Michelle@GrowBy1.com.

Empire. Ego. Nervous system.In this episode, Michelle explores how culture, systems, andexpectations shape us, how our ego responds in an effort to protect or prove, and how our nervous system often gets caught in the middle.When the world feels loud and fast, it is easy to get sweptup in reacting, defending, or trying to fix everything. But real balance begins closer to home. Slowing down. Reflecting on love, truth, beauty, and goodness. Taking care of yourself before trying to save the world.Sometimes growth does not require more information. Itrequires more presence. What if one good idea, deeply processed, is enough to change everything?Learn more about our newest course atGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy or reach out directly at Michelle@GrowBy1.com.

We all live inside a box.In this episode, Michelle explores the idea of the “box ofignorance” and what happens when we are confronted with perspectives outside of our own. Do we double down and defend? Or do we open up and get curious?From social media debates to everyday conversations, sheunpacks how awareness levels shape what we see, how we judge, and how we grow. When you understand that every person is doing the best they can from withintheir current box, judgment begins to fade and curiosity can take its place.The question is not whether you have a box. The question iswhich box you are in and whether you are willing to grow beyond it.Learn more about our newest course atGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy or reach out directly at Michelle@GrowBy1.com.

Grow By One did not start as a strategy. It started as amoment.In this episode, Michelle shares the true story of how GrowBy One got its name and how a life-changing stroke shaped the deeper meaning behind it. From learning how to get up after falling to taking hesitant baby steps in physical therapy, she discovered a powerful truth: lasting growth happens one faithful step at a time.Whether you are discouraged by results, overwhelmed bycircumstances, or stuck in your own head, the bravest thing you can do is take the next step. Write the next line. Ask for help. Make the next call. Keep walking.You do not have to leap. You just have to grow by one.Learn more about our newest course at GrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy or reach out directly at Michelle@GrowBy1.com.

Heaven on Earth is not a fantasy. It is a process.In this episode, Michelle explores what it really means tobring “heaven onto earth” in a practical, powerful way. Using Patrick Lencioni's Six Working Geniuses framework, she unpacks how vision moves from ideas in the clouds to action in the real world.Are you clear on what you want?Do you have a plan?Are you taking faithful, persistent steps forward?Michelle shares personal insight about losing traction,getting cleaned out internally, and returning to small, consistent action that builds real momentum.If you have the vision but struggle with execution, or youare great at getting things done but lack clarity, this conversation will help you identify your next step toward creating your own heaven on earth.Learn more about our newest course atGrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy or reach out directly at Michelle@GrowBy1.com.

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we prepare for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course starting next week!In this episode, Michelle explores the science behind theheart and brain connection and why alignment between thinking and feeling matters so much when you're pursuing goals. When these two electrical systems are out of sync, stress and overwhelm show up. When they're aligned, clarity,confidence, and momentum follow.This throwback taps into deeper neuro concepts aroundregulation, intuition, goal achievement, and internal coherence. It's practical, grounded, and something you can apply immediately in your own life and when leading clients, teams, or audiences.Ready to bring your thinking and feeling into alignment?Join us here: GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime: Michelle@GrowBy1.comLet's get your heart and brain working together

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we prepare for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course starting next week!In this episode, Michelle walks you through the simple butprofound practice of revision. Instead of replaying moments with shame, guilt, or frustration, you intentionally imagine how you wish they had gone and build new neural pathways in the process.This throwback dives into deeper neuro concepts aroundmemory, neural rewiring, forgiveness, and identity. It's a powerful tool for changing your thinking and it's something you can easily use for yourself and with clients, teams, and audiences.Ready to understand how your brain actually reshapes yourpast and future? Join us here: GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime: Michelle@GrowBy1.comLet's rewrite the story in your favor

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we get ready for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course starting next week!In this episode, Michelle breaks down your nervous system ina simple, practical way and teaches you how to “trick the bear.” When your brain thinks you're in danger, your body reacts. But the good news is you can shift yourself from fight-or-flight into rest, digest, and grow with intentional action.This throwback is packed with deeper neuro concepts aroundstress, regulation, awareness, and choice, and it's incredibly easy to apply in your own life and when working with clients, teams, or audiences.Ready to understand your brain on a whole new level? Join ushere: GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime:Michelle@GrowBy1.comLet's teach your nervous system who's really in charge

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we prepare for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course starting next week!In this episode, Michelle dives into the comfort zone, whyit feels safe but can quietly keep you stuck, and how autosuggestion helps rewire your dominant thoughts. If you've ever felt like you're “settled” but not truly growing, this one will stretch your thinking in the best way.These throwback episodes are focused on deeper neuroconcepts around belief, attention, identity, and lasting change, and they're easy to apply not just in your own life, but with clients, teams, and audiences.Ready to take this deeper? Join us here:GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime:Michelle@GrowBy1.com

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we get ready for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course kicking off next week!This episode is all about imagination, not as daydreaming,but as a true executive brain function that shapes your results. What you focus on expands, so are you imagining what you want, or what you fear? Michelle walks you through how to use your imagination on purpose to change yourthinking, shift your outcomes, and design your life and content with intention.These throwback episodes are packed with deeper neuroconcepts around attention, belief, and subconscious programming, and they're easy to apply not only for yourself, but with clients, teams, and audiences.Ready to go deeper? Join us here:GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime:Michelle@GrowBy1.comLet's get your brain working for you

In a world that feels increasingly reactive and polarized,contemplation may be one of the most radical tools we have.In this episode, Michelle explores the power of pausing, choosing reflection over reaction, intention over reflex. She invites listeners to consider how meaningful change begins with inner work: examining our values, understanding our emotions, and grounding ourselves before taking action.This conversation challenges the idea that silence alwaysequals complicity and reframes contemplation as necessary preparation for courageous, values-aligned action, whether in personal relationships or in the broader world.

Violation and violence don't always look dramatic orextreme. Sometimes, they show up quietly, in the ways we lead, teach, sell, train, or hold space for others.In this episode, Michelle explores how marginalization,domination, and denial can occur in everyday settings like classrooms, boardrooms, coaching relationships, and meetings. She challenges the idea that authority equals leadership and invites deeper reflection on sovereignty,dignity, and respect in human interactions.This conversation calls leaders, facilitators, andcaregivers to greater intentionality, honoring the people in front of us not as boxes to check, but as whole, capable individuals deserving of care, agency, and wisdom.

What's obvious is usually easy, and it's already being done.In this episode, Michelle explores the difference betweenrepeating what's familiar and choosing to pioneer something new. While obvious solutions are comfortable and widely accepted, meaningful innovation often requires asking different questions, challenging existing rules, and committing to what's worth the trouble.Through real-world examples from business, leadership, andeducation, Michelle shares how progress happens when we stop defaulting to what's easy and start looking at systems differently, especially when the goal is impact, quality, and service.This conversation invites you to consider where you might beplaying it safe, where pioneering is calling you, and what could change if you chose effort with intention.

What if every object, moment, and person in your day was aninvitation into wonder?In this episode, Michelle introduces the idea that anythingcan become a portal to mystery, a simple contemplative practice that brings curiosity, presence, and calm into everyday life. From ordinary objects to nature, quiet moments, and human connection, she explores how intentional noticing can transform the mundane into something meaningful and grounding.This conversation invites you to slow down, reconnect withawe, and experience more peace, joy, and clarity by engaging with the mystery that's always around you.

Feedback isn't always direct, and it isn't alwayscomfortable, but it's always informative if you know how to listen.In this episode, Michelle explores how feedback often showsup through patterns, behaviors, and consistency (or lack of it) in our relationships, leadership, and work. When we stop taking feedback personally and start seeing it as data, it becomes a powerful tool for clarity and growth.Michelle shares real-life examples and a simple reframingpractice that helps remove the sting and confusion from difficult interactions, allowing you to respond intentionally instead of emotionally.This conversation invites you to recognize what's reallybeing communicated, discern when repair is possible, and know when it's time to adjust or move on, with clarity and self-trust.

What if hype isn't confidence, but a shortcut that quietlyharms people?In this episode, Michelle takes an honest look at marketing, promises, and the difference between storytelling and manipulation. She unpacks why hype can feel like a trap, especially in coaching, leadership, and service-based work, and what it means to market from integrity instead. A thoughtful conversation about relational leadership, keeping your word, and making sure you actually have the goods to back up what you offer.