Failing Forward

Peg Ruppert is caring, faith-driven and a seasoned leadership coach. But when her marriage of nearly 25 years ended, she questioned her identity. Now, Ruppert has used her experience to write a new book, “Rediscover You Post-Divorce.” On episode 140—the last episode of this podcast—Peg and Sarah talk about how to pick yourself up after failure and embrace the unknown future. Peg is a big believer in focusing on the future without losing sight of the past. She shares three tips for moving on from hardship in a positive way to connect with your inherent self-worth. Show Notes: - Read Peg's book “Rediscover You Post-Divorce”: https://www.amazon.com/Rediscover-YOU-post-divorce-confidence-Wonderful/dp/B0BW23RTL4 - Read and work through “The Artist's Way” by Julia Cameron: https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-25th-Anniversary/dp/0143129252

When she was 7 years old, Corrie Loeffler fell in love with the Scripps National Spelling Bee when her brother competed in a regional competition. Today, she is the executive director of the annual event. But first, she had her own run attempting to become the national champion. On episode 139, Corrie shares how her shot at winning it all went south and how she ultimately learned the Bee is not about winning in the first place. Even after her competition days were over, Corrie volunteered and eventually was offered a job. She also talks about the evolution of the Bee to become more inclusive in recent years and how the organization weathered the pandemic. Show Notes: - Learn more about Scripps National Spelling Bee: https://spellingbee.com/ - Read about Zaila Avant-garde, the 2021 spelling bee champion: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/02/us/spelling-bee-zaila-avant-garde.html

One of Michelle Spoelstra's first career aspirations was to be an interior designer. Ultimately, she found her way into clinical psychology. When the pandemic hit, she thought more and more about the importance of space, and today, Michelle is a healing interior designer. On episode 138, Michelle explains what she does and why she created her business. She believes healing takes many forms, including through beauty and aesthetics. Through healing practices and clearing energy and clutter, Michelle helps her clients unlock the power of shifting their space. She also shares her infertility journey and discusses spirituality. Show Notes: - Learn more about Michelle and her work: https://www.michellespoelstra.com/ - Read “You Can Heal You Life” by Louise Hay: https://www.hayhouse.com/you-can-heal-your-life-paperback

Kelly Seelig started working at tech startups in Silicon Valley in the '90s. She adapted to her male-dominated environment, but when she realized she was losing herself in the process, she decided to make a change. On episode 137, Kelly discusses her experience as a woman in a male-dominated field and tells us about the dance class that changed her whole mindset. Her career journey inspired Kelly to write her book, “Right Brain Girl Left Brain World,” about how she found her voice and herself. She and Sarah also discuss psychological safety. Show Notes: - Read Kelly's book “Right Brain Girl Left Brain World”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P1QQCP7 - Read “True North” by Bill George: https://billgeorge.org/book/true-north - Read “The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John David Mann: https://thegogiver.com/the-go-giver/ - Read “Leadership Wisdom From the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari” by Robin Sharma: https://www.robinsharma.com/book/leadership-wisdom-from-the-monk-who-sold-his-ferrari

During the Christmas break of his junior year at college, Brian Joseph was home visiting his family when he experienced intense pain in his shoulder. Doctors couldn't find an explanation, but the always-on-the-go Brian was bedridden for weeks and had to drop out of school. Recovering gave him the opportunity of a lifetime. 
On episode 136, the former insurance salesman explains how introducing payroll deduction to his nationwide company led to a division vice president offer when he was 21 years old. Today, Brian is the co-founder of RevJen Group, which focuses on human and financial sustainability by helping support the business side of nonprofits. He and Sarah talk about success and significance, finding your path and what it means to get into the arena. Show Notes: - Read “Surrender” by Bono: https://surrendermemoir.com/ - Listen to Brené Brown's interview with Bono on “Unlocking Us”: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/songs-of-surrender-and-carrying-the-weight-of-our-contradictions-part-1-of-2/ - Learn more about RevJen: https://revjen.com/

Six months after coming out of retirement to join Under Armour, Randy Harward didn't feel right. Not on his morning run or all day at work. He went to the emergency room, and it turns out he was experiencing heart failure. The road to recovery has been long, and today, Randy contends he isn't the same person he was. On episode 135, Randy shares what it was like to return to work after double bypass surgery. He still experiences a fogginess, but his system for managing his confusion is one that anyone can adopt if you're feeling stressed or anxious. Now a business advisor for Stanford and other organizations, Randy talks about the power of constraints, his years in the outdoor industry and why he always asks about brand's long arcs. Show Notes: - Read “Getting Things Done” by David Allen: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/getting-things-done-david-allen/1101546710 - Learn about the Getting Things Done work management system: https://gettingthingsdone.com/

Claudia Jakubzick grew up in south Florida, the second daughter of Peruvian immigrants. Her childhood was filled with fun and love, then later partying and parental neglect. She graduated from high school with a third-grade reading level, but she was determined to not be a “loser.” On episode 134, Claudia shares how she found the will to forge a new path for her future. She pursued her childhood passion for science, and today, she is an associate professor within Dartmouth's Department of Microbiology and Immunology. She tells Sarah about her relationship with her parents today and how she, in turn, parents her three children. Show Notes: - Read Claudia's article in Journal of Experimental Medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6400547/

Many of us have had less-than-stellar dates that make for a good story, but Stephanie Hibbert has a book-full of them. Once, her date even left her at a concert. It wasn't until she began loving herself that she found everything she had always been looking for. On episode 133, Stephanie shares some of her worst date stories that inspired her book, Thank You for Swiping Right. She talks about giving herself a mindset makeover, abandoning her preconceived timeline and having gratitude even for people who weren't her right match. Show Notes: - Read Stephanie's book, Thank You For Swiping Right: https://stephhibbs.com/ols/products/thank-you-for-swiping-right

When JeRod Lindsey was looking for a path to success after dropping out of college, he decided to ask for help. He met Mike Rodarte through a mentorship program, and soon, their friendship cemented. JeRod's educational and professional success followed. On episode 132, the pair explain their friendship story and share their latest mentorship initiative: Level Up Cincinnati. The program offers scholarships and mentorship to Black, Latinx, and first-generation college students to develop future leaders. JeRod and Mike also delve into the importance of male friendship and are a great example of the people who help us through failure. Show Notes: - Get involved and learn more about Level Up Cincinnati: https://www.levelupcincinnati.org/ - Listen to JeRod's podcast, The Discussion: https://www.thediscussion513.com/

The day Bassey Eno-Idem's brother passed away at 28 from diabetes complications, Bassey also lost his best friend. Out of the grief, he rooted himself in the desire to not let fear or his own insecurities dictate his future. On episode 131, Bassey shares how he transitioned from mechanical engineer to sales leader and entrepreneur. In 2018, he and his wife, Jess, began the process of opening a Shred415 fitness studio. Everything was in place for Bassey to quit his corporate career and run the studio full-time, and then the pandemic hit. By relying on his engineering skillset, he pivoted, and they still found success. Show Notes: - Learn more about Shred415 fitness studio: https://shred415.com/locations/redbank/ - Listen to the How I Built This podcast featuring Spanx founder Sara Blakely: https://www.npr.org/2017/08/15/534771839/spanx-sara-blakely

Crystal Render is more in tune with her body, her values and her internal monologue than most people. It's how she knew something was wrong when she was pregnant with her third child, despite doctors and nurses dismissing her pain. After reexamining her, they found five blood clots and double pneumonia—diagnoses that could have killed her. On episode 130, the chef and founder of Magnificent Morsels catering company tells us about how growing up in humble beginnings has led to a life of gratitude. It hasn't always been easy, but Crystal embraces failure whole-heartedly and works to turn the tests she faces into testimonies of her character. A devoted practitioner of manifestation, she explains the 3-6-9 technique she uses to bring her goals and dreams to life. Show Notes: - Learn more about Magnificent Morsels: https://www.mmcaterz.com/ - Listen to Sarah's interview with Suzy DeYoung: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-96-suzy-deyoung-la-soupe-founder-chef/id1330322754?i=1000531160658

In the span of two months, Lauren Bates left her job as chief marketing officer at Urban Stems and ended her 7-year relationship. As she worked to reinvent herself, she kept thinking about starting her own women's-only travel company, but it wasn't until her friends and family encouraged her that she decided to go for it. On episode 129, Lauren shares how she started Wild Terrains and how the business has evolved naturally and in the wake of COVID-19. Long before she started her company, she lived in Southeast Asia for seven months after graduating college. Later on, her experience working at a startup informed her own decisions as an entrepreneur. Show Notes: - Learn more about Wild Terrains: https://www.wildterrains.com/

Paul Delaney had one goal at the start of his career: climb the corporate ladder to become a senior vice president of a national company. After all, that was the path modeled to him by his father, at job fairs, and in his network. Then, it all shifted as he got clearer on his purpose and values and expanded his thinking. On episode 128, Paul explains how he came to reject the corporate ladder for a place within a boutique business. As partner at Amend Consulting, he works to foster a collaborative, not competitive, culture where every employee can be successful. Paul was born and partially raised in South Africa, and he reflects on how his native country's apartheid government impacts his outlook on diversity and inclusion today. Show Notes: - Read “The Earned Life” by Marshall Goldsmith: https://marshallgoldsmith.com/book-page-the-earned-life/ - Listen to Huberman Lab: https://hubermanlab.com

After starting out in more traditional advertising roles, Kelli Stam redirected her career to focus on purpose-driven work. She left her corporate job to join the Peace Corps at 40 years old and has since worked as Apple's global director of social impact marketing and for the Human Rights Campaign. Today, she's focused on answering the question: How can her work support her life, instead of her life supporting her work? On episode 127, Kelli talks about recognizing when she has been in misalignment, the tragedy that propelled her into making bold moves, and what it was like serving in the Peace Corps. She was based in Nicaragua for two years, and returning back to the U.S. brought its own kind of culture shock. Kelli chooses to center her life and identity around her values, not her job. Show Notes: - Watch or stream “Everything Everywhere All At Once”: https://a24films.com/films/everything-everywhere-all-at-once

Reckoning is a central word in Meghan Cummings' vocabulary. Her career in nonprofits has been focused on reckoning and rectifying societal problems like racial, gender, and socioeconomic inequalities. But before joining the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Meghan was reckoning with her next career step. On episode 126, the Vice President of Civic Advancement walks us through her work and how she moved forward during a period of self-doubt and uncertainty. By relying on her support system and reflecting on her truths and passions in life, Meghan found the right organizational fit and a new sense of confidence. Show Notes: - Learn more about the Greater Cincinnati Foundation: https://www.gcfdn.org/

All her life Michele Hobbs has had an unbeatable work ethic and a determination to get what she sets her mind to. In high school, she was denied for a loan from Fifth Third Bank but convinced the bank president to give her another shot. Today, she is the founder of OTR Stillhouse and Pet Wants. On episode 125, Michele tells us about becoming an entrepreneur, her leadership ethos and landing an incredible deal on the property that OTR Stillhouse now occupies. She also shares stories about her personal life, growing up on Cincinnati's West Side and coming out in 1979. Show Notes: - Check out OTR Stillhouse: https://otrstillhouse.com/ - Learn more about Pet Wants: https://www.petwants.com/

Mark Neff is no stranger to pivoting. He's made drastic career changes—from the business world to hair styling to coaching. Years ago, after getting his second DUI in six months, he decided to finally face his alcoholism and get sober. He is a testament to what can happen when you embrace your authentic self. On episode 124, Mark shares his career journey, his path to sobriety, and what it was like to come out as a gay teenager. Just before the pandemic, Mark sold his hair salon and followed his passion into coaching. At the beginning of the year, he published a book, “Diving Into Darkness to Find Light.” Show Notes: - Read Mark's book: https://www.amazon.com/Diving-Into-Darkness-Find-Light/dp/0578334852 - Brene Brown's interview with Father Richard Rohr: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/spirituality-certitude-and-infinite-love-part-1-of-2/

Noelle Van Vlierbergen says writing saved her life. It gave her an outlet to explore her interior life after years of numbing herself through heavy drinking. Today, she is a life and addiction recovery coach, an author, and the creator of Day by Daybook, a journal for change. On episode 123, Noelle shares her journey getting sober, discusses the benefits of writing, and explains how she transitioned from an HR position at Apple to take her coaching and writing full-time. Today, there are three Daybooks: Classic, Recovery, and Teen. Show Notes: - Get the Day by Daybook journal: https://shop.daybydaybook.com/ - Learn more about Noelle's coaching: https://noellevan.com/ - Read Noelle's book, “The Sober Leap”: https://www.amazon.com/Sober-Leap-Practical-Amazing-Addiction/dp/1683507371

After college, Mike Sanford found immediate success as a software engineer. By 23, he was supervising a team of 30, but it ended in a train wreck. Reeling from the experience, he realized his job shouldn't be the anchor of identity and began a journey to have a relationship with God. On episode 122, Mike walks us through his search for faith, why Islam became his spiritual home, and how his faith has helped him through hard times. He explains some basics about the Islamic faith and touches on life as a single parent. Show Notes: - Learn more about CAIR, the Council on American-Islamic Relations: https://www.cair.com/

As the director of corporate communications and media relations for Kroger, Kristal Howard was busier than ever at the start of the pandemic. When managing stress from her job and the open-ended health crisis reached a breaking point, she made a pivotal realization: She had her dream job but not her dream life. On episode 121, Kristal tells us about giving herself permission to make bold changes in her life. She initiated a breakup, and this May, left her job to focus on play, travel, and making space for the unexpected. Kristal explains what deciding to go felt like and what's next. Show Notes: - Read "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-big-leap-gay-hendricks?variant=32205677625378

Daniella Dayoub has had a love-hate relationship with her body. Her struggles with disordered eating began when she was a kid, but in her twenties, a personal trainer told her she needed to fuel her body well if she wanted to have energy to build muscle. Now, Daniella helps other people through her health coaching business, D Fit Life. On episode 120, the certified personal trainer tells us about the tipping point that finally led to her changing her habits around eating. As a health coach, Daniella impresses upon her clients that eating quality, nutrient-rich food is much more important than how much you eat. And don't miss the two tips she shares at the end of the episode about practices that can helps us all get more in touch with our body. Show Notes: - Learn more about Daniella's health coaching business, D Fit Life: https://www.dfitlife.com/ - If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, help is available. The National Eating Disorders Association helpline is available Monday through Friday at 800-931-2237 and online: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ Text "NEDA" to 741741 to reach the crisis text line.

Danyetta Najoli grew up in Harlem—when it wasn't the one of desirable New York City neighborhoods to live in. She remembers priceless memories with her friends' families and dance lessons at her godmother's studio, but in the background, her family was learning to thrive in the face of loss. On episode 118, Danyetta shares one of her coaching programs that she has used in her own life and with her clients. The four-step process is: release, allow, attract, and act. She explains each step on this episode, and you can learn more about them in her new book “Micro Shift: Small Mindset Changes for Big Results.” Show Notes: - Learn more about Danyetta's work: https://www.danyetta.com/ - Read Danyetta's book, Micro Shift: https://www.amazon.com/Micro-Shift-Mindset-Changes-Results/dp/B09SY39N8X

When Kendra Ramirez started getting calls from other sales people asking for a tutorial on how to use LinkedIn effectively, a business idea was born. She shared her idea with three business coaches who all said it would fail because LinkedIn was a fad. Kendra started her agency anyway. On episode 118, Kendra talks about listening to her intuition and building confidence as a business owner. In February, she released her book “Micro Shift: Small Mindset Changes for Big Results.” One of the key ideas from the book is a practice Kendra calls looking for the wobble. The feeling of being off balance is an opportunity to ask yourself what's not being fulfilled in your life. Show Notes: - Learn more about Kendra Ramirez Digital Agency: https://www.kendraramirez.com/ - Read Kendra's book, Micro Shift: https://www.amazon.com/Micro-Shift-Mindset-Changes-Results/dp/B09SY39N8X

One rule in Myron Rivers' life is to question everything. His independent thinking is the lynchpin of his entrepreneurial spirit, and today, he is the CEO of Lerch, a concierge app. But growing up, he faced serious hardship. On episode 117, Myron shares how he overcame the traumas of his childhood and talks about breaking the cycle of violence. His pride in being a Black man informs his approach to parenting. And he reflects on how his time in the U.S. Air Force influenced his diversity and inclusion work. Show Notes: - Learn more about Lerch on its website: https://asklerch.com/ - If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available to help 24/7. Call the confidential hotline at 800-799-7233.

Robyn Johnson hated selling as a kid and became a youth minister, which she dubs the least capitalistic profession possible. But out of necessity, she started reselling garage sale finds on eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist. Success brought opportunity and a new passion: helping other entrepreneurs sell online. On episode 116, Robyn shares her entrepreneurial journey from garage sales to her current consulting agency, Marketplace Blueprint. Her thyroid cancer diagnosis caused her to take a step back, and despite her fears, she watched the business grow under her team's stewardship. Now a cancer survivor, her outlook on the business and life was changed for the better. Show Notes: - Learn more about Marketplace Blueprint on its website: https://marketplaceblueprint.com/ - Read Think and Grow Rich for Women by Sharon Lechter: https://sharonlechter.com/women/ - Read The Source by Tara Swart: https://www.taraswart.com/the-source/

In 2005, Nick Marckwald dreamt of opening a fine dining restaurant called Hen of the Woods. After years of being a chef and a brief stint in property management, Nick was determined to make it happen until a new, even brighter opportunity—to create a pototo chip and snack company—appeared. On episode 115, Nick discusses the evolution of his dream and how he and his co-founders started Hen of the Woods snacks. They knew next to nothing about running a consumer packaged goods company, but their hard work and determination have made it work. Along the way, Nick harnessed the positive side of FOMO and has embraced the ever-changing nature of his company's namesake, the mushroom. Show Notes: - Check out Hen of Woods on its website: https://www.henofthewoodsotr.com/

After 19 years with the Cincinnati Bengals, Jeff Berding left his executive-level position to bring a new sports team to the Queen City: FC Cincinnati. Early on, Jeff faced skepticism about the new venture, but he saw a bright future that he's still helping to build. On episode 114, the soccer club's CEO tells us about his inspiration for the club, gets real about FCC's disappointing MLS seasons, and explains why it's crucial to decide whose support means the most to you. Although he had some soccer experience prior to FCC, Jeff embodies what it means to have a growth mindset.

Growing up in small town Ohio, Kristin Shrimplin was different. In high school, she was silenced by relentless bullies. Later on, she thought having power and being in control would protect her, but her journey to empowerment—and sobriety—actually involved acknowledging she was powerless. On episode 113, Kristin explains the liberation of being powerless, the importance of language, and how she approaches serving others. Today, Kristin is the president and CEO of Women Helping Women, a gender-based violence prevention and crisis intervention center. Despite the challenges she's faced, she brings a positivity to her relationships and work that is worth emulating. Show Notes: - Learn more about Women Helping Women: https://www.womenhelpingwomen.org/ - If you or someone you know is struggling with gender-based violence, help is available. Call or text Women Helping Women's 24-hour hotline at 513-381-5610. For support outside the Cincinnati area, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

When Brady Duncan and Kenny McNutt founded MadTree Brewing Co. in 2013, the craft beer boom was just getting started. A few years later, MadTree was one of the biggest craft breweries in Ohio, but Brady started to feel like it was just like any of the other thousands of operations across the country. On episode 112, Brady tells us about his resetting process, how to create a values-led organization, and discusses the hardest part of any job: the people. Like every business, MadTree has been thrown some curveballs by the pandemic, but it's poised to grow in new ways in 2022, including the opening of Alcove. Show Notes: - Learn more about MadTree's Alcove bar and restaurant: https://www.madtreebrewing.com/news/madtree-alcove

Terrance Bacchus didn't grow up with role models that looked like him, so today, the financial coach and author is committed to making sure other black and brown kids can't say the same. On episode 111, Terrance tells us about starting an affiliate of My Brother's Keeper, a community challenge started by former President Barack Obama to support young men of color. He outlines his inspiration, the curriculum, and how you can help support their mission of sharing wealth creation with black and brown boys in Cincinnati. Show Notes: - Learn more about and get involved with My Brother's Keeper Cincinnati: https://www.mbkcincinnati.org/ - Read Terrance's book, “Financially Empowered: Achieving Success Through Sacrifice”: https://www.bacchusempoweredcoaching.com/publications

Donerik Black's journey with organ donation started around 2004. His dad needed a kidney, and two years later, Donerik would give him one. Years later, Donerik became a recipient himself. On episode 110, Donerik tells us about receiving the best gift he could have asked for—a heart—the day before his 45th birthday. In the face of life-altering changes, Donerik has hardly skipped a beat, measuring success by the impact he's made, what's he's learned and what's he taught someone else. The publisher of The Dayton Weekly News also tells us about his dad's vision to create a news outlet for Dayton, Ohio's African-American community, which Donerik is still running today. Show Notes: - Read The Dayton Weekly News: https://www.daytonweeklyonline.com/

Britney Ruby Miller, CEO of Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment, is back on the show to talk about her new book “5-Star Life.” The book shares Britney's journey to overcome obstacles in all facets of her life. On episode 109, Britney and Sarah discuss forgiveness of the self and others, including the people we love most. Today, Britney uses a six-step apology process with her family and in her business. Show Notes: - Check out Britney's book “5-Star Life”: https://www.britrubymiller.com/books

Josh Heuser believes the moment you have nothing is the moment you have everything. He's motivated by crises and has reinvented his business ventures plenty of times over the years. Today, the lifelong party host is the founder of AGAR, an experience company behind Blink, Ghost Baby, Porch Pours (a socially distant city-wide happy hour) and more. On episode 108, Josh and Sarah discuss fear, self-worth, and the evolution of social media. Josh's entrepreneurial spirit and determination empower him to keep going in the face of obstacles, be it creating a new boundary-pushing concept or starting over after the 2008 recession. Show Notes: - Find out more about AGAR and its work at https://theagar.com/

On episode 107, Siobhan Taylor discusses her Lyme disease recovery, faith during the pandemic, and abandoning her dream of being in lawyer to find what made her heart truly sing: youth and education. Today, Siobhan is the president and CEO of DePaul Cristo Rey. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Siobhan's wisdom can help you reflect on your life, your relationships and community.

Early in her career, Jennifer Hafner Speiser worked for a boss who she grew not to trust. She could see a fiasco in the making but, as a junior employee, was too afraid to speak up. The experience taught her to trust her intuition. On episode 106, the executive director of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation discusses how to nurture your intuition, what brave noise means to her, and why failure is an opportunity. Jennifer tells us about the supporting role the Cincinnati Parks Foundation plays to the city's parks. She and Sarah also talk about youth and harassment in the workplace. Show Notes: - Watch "Impeachment: American Crime Story" about President Bill Clinton's affair with Monica Lewinsky: https://www.fxnetworks.com/shows/american-crime-story

When he was 25, Anthony Iannarino had brain surgery and woke up to find a small part of his brain had been removed. He was angry and panicked, and the musician decided to pursue higher education. He attended college, law school, and business school back-to-back. Today, Anthony is a sales coach and runs his family's staffing company. On episode 105, Anthony tells us about what impact his brain surgery had, the habits that keep him successful, and how he learned to face his shadows. The sales coach and expert also discusses his outlook on sales and how his failures have only made him stronger. Show Notes: - Learn more about Anthony and his work on his website: https://www.thesalesblog.com/ - Listen to the Huberman Lab podcast: https://hubermanlab.com/ - Hear the Huberman Lab episode featuring sleep scientist Matthew Walker: https://hubermanlab.com/dr-matthew-walker-the-science-and-practice-of-perfecting-your-sleep/ - Read When by Daniel H. Pink: https://www.danpink.com/books/when/

Journalist and author Ben Montgomery has spent much of his career telling other people's stories. Some have happy endings, and others—like the stories of the White House Boys in Florida—don't. But the common threads that run through them all are our capacity for resilience and adventure. On episode 104, Ben talks about reporting on tragedies and triumphs. His article in the Tampa Bay Times called “For Their Own Good” about boys who were abused at a reform school operated by the state of Florida was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Ben is also the author of four books, including “Grandma Gatewood's Walk” and “The Man Who Walked Backward.” Show Notes: - Read “For Their Own Good” about Florida's White House Boys: https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2009/04/19/for-their-own-good/ - Check out all of Ben's books: https://www.benmontgomerywrites.com/books

Julie Conrad has always had intuitive gifts, but it wasn't until she was 29 and struggling with infertility that her mentor told her, “You're supposed to be a healer in this life.” Julie started taking her gifts more seriously and eventually quit her high-paying corporate job to start her energy healing practice. On episode 103, Julie tells us about finding and cultivating her gifts as a reiki master and medium. She also shares her journaling practice, the power affirmations can have, and why failure is opportunity by another name. Show Notes: - Learn more about Julie's work and business, Blossom Wellness and Healing Center: https://www.begintoblossom.com/ - Read The Source by Dr. Tara Swart: https://www.taraswart.com/the-source/ - Discover The Artist's Way program and journal: https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-25th-Anniversary/dp/0143129252

As can be typical of an oldest child, Eisha Armstrong has perfectionist tendencies. The Harvard Business School alum has always had a lot of irons in the fire, but she couldn't escape the voice that said she needed to work harder and do more. Eisha started drinking more to drown out the noise. On episode 102, Eisha explains how and why she started questioning her relationship with alcohol and what led her to become alcohol-free. She also shares her career path, including what she learned from buying a business she grew to hate. Eisha is the author of the new book Productize, CEO of Vectris consulting, and co-founder of 0.0 Living (along with Sarah Brown!). Show Notes: - Learn about 0.0 Living: https://www.zerozeroliving.com/ - Find out more about Eisha's book Productize: https://www.vecteris.com/productize-book

Casey Hilmer Ward started running in elementary school and later joined her school's cross country team. In July 2003, 13-year-old Casey went on a training run and was attacked a quarter-mile from her house. She managed to break free but only after being stabbed four times, including in the neck. On episode 101, Casey shares her survival story and the scars—visible and invisible—she carried until later in high school. As a motivational speaker, she tells audiences you have to keep going through the tough times in life and embrace failure. After all, she opened her indoor cycling and fitness studio, Power Ryde, after being rejected from medical school. Show Notes: - Learn about Power Ryde: https://www.powerryde.com/

Some of Henry Fenichel's earliest memories are during one of humanity's darkest eras: the Holocaust. His family was targeted along with many other Jews living in The Netherlands in the 1930s and '40s. Miraculously, he and his mother escaped to Palestine—only to be separated once more. On our 100th episode, Henry recounts what it was like living in a Jewish ghetto, how he made it to safety, and how he eventually reunited with his mother permanently. He credits his mom immensely for her strength in the face of countless horrors and her determination to keep them alive. Now a retired physics professor, Henry serves as a board member for The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center and lives in the Cincinnati area with his wife of 60 years. Show Notes: - Learn more about The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center and museum: https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/

We think of entrepreneurs as strong visionaries who are ready to tackle any problem, and if you met Bill DeVille today, that's probably what you'd think, too. As a kid, the founder and CEO of Health Carousel was mech less self-assured and way more fatalistic. Then one day, his mom shocked him into changing his mindset. On episode 99, Bill shares what his mom told him way back when and explains how he realized he was a risk taker. His approach for assessing risk is similar to Jeff Bezos' regret minimization framework, and Bill has used it for making business and life decisions.

Adam Symson says he owes his position as president of CEO of The E.W. Scripps Company to his failures. Or more accurately, his fortitude. He's had to navigate layoffs, acquisitions, and a global pandemic in his role, and his resilience has come in handy. On episode 98, Adam tells us why and how he embraces failure. He also shares how his family's immigrant history and Jewish identity subtly influenced him to become a journalist. His dream of being an investigative reporter didn't go as planned, but Adam embraced an alternate path that's led him to being a media executive of the country's fourth-largest local TV broadcaster.

In 2003, while working at the U.S. Attorney's Office in Cincinnati, Wende Cross decided to apply for a federal magistrate position. She was selected over 100 other people from around the country but ultimately withdrew her name after concerns about her now ex-husband's record. On episode 97, Wende explains how she got threw the dark period that ensued and how she ended up becoming a magistrate after all. Today, Wende is a judge for the Hamilton County Common Pleas court. She shares how her faith has been an integral part of her professional decision-making and what she has learned in her career so far.

As chef and co-owner of La Petite Pierre, Suzy DeYoung served sitting presidents, celebrities, and countless other people. She loved the challenge and creativity—until she didn't anymore. She felt stuck because leaving the catering business would mean leaving her business partner—one of her two sisters—without a chef. On episode 96, Suzy explains how she gained the courage to leave La Petite Pierre and how her passion for curbing food waste led her to start La Soupe in 2014. Today, the food rescue non-profit has 29 employees, receives about 25,000 pounds of food each week, and re-distributes it to food-insecure Cincinnatians and other outlets. Show Notes: - Find more about La Soupe: https://lasoupe.org/

We've all had dreams that have stuck with us. Sometimes it's because they are frightening or jarring, other times we have the same dream again and again. It makes us wonder: What did that mean? On episode 95, Steve Kampmann returns to the show to delve into the history and importance of dreams. The host of The Dreams Course Podcast shares a language we can use to interpret them, and more broadly, discusses how we can leave our egos behind and connect to our most confident, aligned selves. Show Notes: - Learn more about Steven's coaching program, The Dreams Course: www.thedreamscourse.org/dreamcourse - Listen to The Dreams Course Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-…st/id1532417265 - Watch the “Clifford” screen test with Steven Kampmann and Martin Short: https://vimeo.com/536064868 - Read Breath by James Nestor: https://www.mrjamesnestor.com/breath

Amanda Valentine had been trying to lose weight and get control of her binge eating disorders for years. Then, the former radio host made a 90-day resolution on air to lose 15 pounds. Three months later, she had shed 20 pounds and was determined to keep going. On episode 94, Amanda shares some great reframing tips that can be useful beyond the health and wellness realm, too. She also tells us about the time she was fired in the middle of radio show and pivoting from her dream job in radio to becoming an independent podcast host and health coach. Show Notes: - Listen to the Pound This podcast: https://poundthis.com/ - Learn about Amanda's health coaching and products: https://www.amandavalentinebites.com/

Jennifer McClure made just $12,000 in the first year of her business consulting firm, Unbridled Talent. Despite being an introvert, finding clients wasn't the problem. A lack of systems and knowledge—like how to send an invoice—was. On episode 93, Jennifer tells us about growing her business, how she learned to network, and how stepping out of her comfort zone led to the creation of DisruptHR. The event invites atypical speakers to share their best ideas in 5 minutes, with 20 slides and 15 seconds per slide. In the past eight years, Disrupt event have happened in 158 cities across 37 countries. An avid horse-lover, Jennifer also shares an incredible leadership lesson she learned from her horses. Show Notes: - About Jennifer and Unbridled Talent: https://jennifermcclure.net/ - Learn about DisruptHR: https://disrupthr.co/

In 2014, Barbara Hauser used her talents of community building and creativity to launch The Red Door Project, a pop-up art show and silent auction held around Cincinnati. She often fielded questions about how successful each show was, but Barbara chaffed at the idea of measuring success based on attendance or number of pieces sold. On episode 92, Barbara explains the inspiration behind The Red Door Project and how she refined her definition of success. She believes everyone is an artist and encourages creativity at every turn. Barbara also tells us about her work as Senior Community Relations Manager for P&G. Show Notes: - Follow The Red Door Project on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thereddoorproject/ - Follow The Red Door Project on Instagram @thereddoorproject: https://www.instagram.com/thereddoorproject/

Craig Chavis Jr. dreamed of becoming an NFL player, and he was good enough to give it a shot until an injury in college ruined everything. As an entrepreneur, Craig has two failed businesses under his belt and a string of rejection letters from corporate America. And yet, the author and business consultant is endlessly optimistic. On episode 91, Craig shares how he realized he could be his own worst enemy or his best friend, and why choosing the latter has made all the difference. He also talks about his book “Burdens of a Dream,” how he opened the first craft Pisco distillery in Peru, and advice for finding a career opportunity that fits. Show Notes: - “Burdens of a Dream” is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Burdens-Dream-Actionable-Creative-Entrepreneur/dp/1647460212/ - Learn more about Craig's work: https://www.cre8ivecraig.com/

Steven Kampmann and his wife, Judith, were expecting and building a home when he got the call that he was being fired from the Newhart show. The former writer and producer on WKRP in Cincinnati thought his time in show biz was probably over, so he started writing a screenplay without any expectations. Four years later, it became Stealing Home, which Steven also directed. On episode 90, Steven tells us about his latest project, The Dreams Course Podcast, which he hosts with one of his sons. He explains the inspiration for the show and dives deep into the journey to discover the inner self. He also shares five principles to feed your inner life from his coaching program, The Dreams Course. Show Notes: - Listen to The Dreams Course Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dreams-course-podcast/id1532417265 - Learn more about Steven’s coaching program, The Dreams Course: https://www.thedreamscourse.org/dreamcourse - Read about Alex Kerten: https://parkinson-gk.com/about/