Flex This

If you missed the last episode, this is your cue to prepare for a spoiler alert or circle back to the last episode. ••••• WE ARE GETTING MARRIED! ••••• In this episode, Ashley and I chat about our decision to get married and planning the details of our wedding in alignment to our values. We also unpack some of the narratives and stories we have been telling ourselves that have popped up for us around the concept of getting married and the impact society's ideas of marriage have had on us as folks in the queer community. ••••• Excited to share this conversation about our journey with y'all. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back, y'all! On today's episode, Ashley and I unpack the question, “How do you hold yourself accountable to staying aligned with your authentic self?” This is the work of a lifetime. Our human lens and experiences are transforming in every moment to moment in every interaction. Some folks challenge our beliefs and some will remind us of the work we put in to know our truth. Sometimes, we need to let go all together to realign and ground ourselves. Excited to share this convo with y'all. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back, y'all! Last episode, Ashley and I started to touch on hobbies and decide to hold off to dive a little deeper. We live in a culture that pushes productivity. (Eating is a sport and posting on social media feels like a competition no one ever wins an award for.) What once was done for the sake of creativity, joy or an outlet seems to have shifted to another thing requiring measurable outcomes. On this episode, Ashley and I chat about choosing hobbies for the sake of joy and learning when to let go of a hobby that feels like a chore. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back! In this episode, Ashley and I unpack the question, “What is the biggest barrier you experience when being truthful to yourself? Whether if that's how you measure accomplishments, comparison when setting your goals or how you show up in meetings/work place.” --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back to season 5 of Flex This! On this episode, Ashley and I tackle the question, “Who or what has been the most influential on this journey?” (Spoiler alert: it never just one person or thing.) Excited to share this episode with y'all. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back to the season 5! On today's episode, Ashley and I ask each other the opening thought I ask every guest on Flex This: “Becoming the best version of ourselves is journey. What do you name this journey and how did you get to using that language?” We mention a couple of resources that have helped us in the journey. Below you can find the Instagram account for Jen Atkin (where we got the idea to reframe New Years goals) and Brene Brown's Dare to Lead List of Values. https://instagram.com/jenatkinhair?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://brenebrown.com/resources/dare-to-lead-list-of-values/ https://brenebrown.com/resources/living-into-our-values/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Flex This is back! After a year sabbatical, coming back for this 5th season with my partner Ashley Szalwinski. We are doing something a little different this season… Ashley and I unpack a single question together in short(ish) episodes. We talk about aligning to our individual values to our partnership, how we make decisions in alignment to our values as couple, choosing and letting go of hobbies, how we set ourselves up for success when we travel and whole slew of other things. Excited to share these mini conversations ashley and I had with this community. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I'm excited to have a former teammate, roommate and long time friend, Lorraine Stanek, on Flex This for this episode. Small disclaimer: we experienced some technical difficulties while recording that affected the sound quality. (One of the not-so-top 10 parts of a virtual world) Not only was it lovely to reconnect with Lo, it brought my heart immense joy to pick up as if there was no time between our last conversation. As all my conversation with Lorraine have gone throughout the years, Lo shares her authentic truth transparently with humor and joy. I'm so grateful she made time to chat with me, share her journey of becoming the best version of herself and her willingness to share it all with you. Lorraine Stanek is 43 and born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She comes from a family where she is the oldest of 2 girls, and her parents are still together after 45 years! Lorraine's sister is her best friend and has given her two amazing nephews. She has four pets: 1 Great Dane named Vada, 2 cats named Peanut and Butter, and a turtle named Franklin. A quote from Lorraine, "I have been fortunate in my life to have had some incredible experiences. From being a karaoke DJ, to traveling to Europe, to playing professional women's football, to being in a Stanley Cup parade, to being a teacher… the list goes on! I have been blessed in my life, for sure. I am currently in a new discovery/rebirth phase where I am trying to figure out who I am, and who I want to be, post-covid. These past two years have opened my eyes and helped me discover some new parts of me. Some I like, and some I don't. I'm currently working on the parts I don't!" You can connect with Lorraine on Facebook at Lorraine Stanek or Hank's Haven. The organization she would LOVE for all the listener's to check out is Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Like many people across the globe, the pandemic shook up my world and provided an opportunity to make some changes in my life. Not only did I shift my career path, I was also onboarded remotely - a mindset change in itself if you, like me, never worked remotely before. Working within a team and organization virtually has made me reflect on my communication style, what it means to authentically show up in virtual environment, and how can I earn trust with people I have not, and may never, meet in person. April House and I are former colleagues. For the short period of time our paths crossed at the organization, for me, I often felt there wasn't enough scheduled time to talk with April. To give some context, though I worked with April, the only time I really got to collaborate with her directly was during our DEI committee meetings. If you know me at all or have listened to any other episodes of the podcast, you know that conversations talking about the complexity of being a person are my absolute jam. It was a privilege to share virtual space with April and listen to her vision and leadership on how to truly make an impact with our DEI initiative. More times than not, the sixty minutes was simply not enough time to listen to the wisdom and human story of every individual in the committee. I wanted to learn more about their life experiences and how those experiences impacted their lens in how they see and navigate the world. I reached out to April hoping she would be willing to chat with me some more about her journey of becoming the best version of herself. I was ecstatic when she said yes and am excited to share this conversation with you all. April House is the President of HR Benefits INC. for the Washington Technology Industry Association who's mission is to foster a robust, equity-centered technology sector that empowers thriving communities. You can find April on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmha --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

If I were to choose a single word to describe this conversation it would be unpack. Each guest is sent a handful of questions to marinade on prior to recording every episode. If you are a subscriber (and I sure hope you are!), you probably noticed I begin and end each conversation with the same two questions. To open each conversation, I ask folks to walk us through their journey of becoming the best and most authentic version of themselves. Most importantly, I want know if they have a name for their version of becoming the best version of themselves. If so, what is it and how did they come to using that language? When I envisioned this podcast and reflecting on what I was hoping to offer as a gift to humanity, I found this question to be incredibly important. I wanted to show folks you don't have to be a guru or on a spiritual path to grow as a human being. Whether we want to or not, we are always shifting, growing and expanding. I  also wrap up every conversation asking guests to share something they are learning, trying to understand, healing or grappling with in their life right now. I believe we connect to each other through story. And what I love about this question, is it invites us all into the guests inner world through their powerful and personal human story. This entire conversation with Janalyn is an unpacking of questions of learning, healing and grappling with the complexity of being a human. Janalyn and I met years ago through personal training (Shocking; I know). Within moments of meeting, Janalyn was unapologetic about her questions and curiosity of the lens in which she sees the world - and she is never afraid to ask the hard thing. I love the raw and transparent way Janalyn moves through the world. Her thoughts and questions have pushed my own mindset during the time we trained together in Pittsburgh. Grateful for our conversation and the gift to  be able to share it with ya'll as well.  Janalyn has a BA in CSD & Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and has studied both Spanish and Sign Language. She loves learning and reading any chance she gets. Janalyn was born and raised in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. She currently lives in Pittsburgh with her boyfriend and two Great Danes. You can connect with Janalyn for all things Pittsburgh Real Estate on Facebook @fittpittrealtor or on Instagram @jbudzik. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

The journey of becoming the best version of ourselves often includes embracing life's surprises. As with many of the folks I have trained throughout my personal training career, Liz and I met through current client client - Bethany Ruhe. (Bethany joined me for a conversation the first episode of this season! Here is the link to our chat) Considering the banter and sarcasm I had in conversations with Bethany, it was no surprise that when Liz and I connected, the conversations became similar. You will hear Liz's whit and humor throughout this entire conversation. It was such a joy to reconnect and to hear about Liz relocating to Arizona, starting a family, becoming a mom and all the life lessons and tools she has gained between the years we last connected. I am really excited to share this conversation with ya'll! Within her career, Liz is personally focused on advancing innovative technology and CRM solutions to support clients and improve efficiency across her organization. She is passionate about the transformation that Salesforce, process excellence and sales operations can drive throughout the business, and about building high performing teams. Liz is a Salesforce Admin certified, Salesforce Sales Cloud Consultant Certified, and have extensive experience in the Sales and Service Clouds. In her personal life, Liz is joyfully sleep-deprived mom of three beautiful kids who occasionally tries to have adult conversations. Liz holds four full-times jobs: mom, tech consultant, wife, and, most importantly, wine drinker. You can find Liz on Instagram @Lizzibee00 However, she believes deeply in the work and impact of the World Central Kitchen and would love listeners to check out their work or donate if feel inclined.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

The power of curiosity and contemplation is woven throughout this entire conversation. Amanda did not hesitate to dive into the mystery of what it means to be alive and deeply human. Amanda and I met when our respected non-profits collaborated and partnered to rollout a summer reading program for tiny humans in San Diego. The only encounters we had were in a virtual group setting the spring of 2020 trying to problem solve and adapt an in-person reading program in the midst of a pandemic. Reflecting on folks I would love to have a deeper and more candid conversation with for season 4, I remembered the small glimpses in breakout rooms and ice breakers I shared with Amanda, and I had to reach out. I was stoked when she agreed to chat with me.  Amanda Bonds serves as Program Director at Words Alive, providing leadership for a portfolio of programs targeting children, youth, and parents including our Read Aloud Program, Family Literacy Program, and Teen Services Programs. Amanda also manages agency evaluation efforts and represents Words Alive on multiple education-focused community partnerships across the county, such as the Diamond Education Excellent Partnership, where she currently serves on the Board of Directors as chair of the 0-5 Working Group. A 2014 Fellow of the San Diego Leadership Alliance, Amanda earned her master's degree in literature from the University of California, San Diego prior to joining Words Alive in 2009. Believing in the power of learning, her teaching history includes college-level writing at UCSD, elementary age classrooms in Jamaica and summer programs at the San Antonio Zoo. Before moving west, Amanda served as an AmeriCorps volunteer with the Keeping Austin Housed Coalition, providing advocacy and case management to homeless immigrant families in her native state of Texas. To learn more about Amanda's work with Words Alive check out their website at https://www.wordsalive.org/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

From folks I met briefly while rolling out work related programs, to college friends and clients during my personal training days, each person in this season has known me at a pivotal moment in my personal life or career. Today's guest is no different.  Many moons and personal growth spurts ago, Kweilin and I met playing professional women's football. As a former college and professional athlete, the years you are in the thick of the sport you love, you believe every rep in the gym, the extra time in conditioning and highlights of the games will be what you remember the most.  The funny thing about reflecting on the sports I have played over the years is I don't remember any of the games or my highlights. Even the training, though I remember it vividly, what I took away from each session wasn't the details of the drills but the ability to flex the muscle of tenacity and perseverance that now trickles into every aspect of my life. Truthfully, what I remember most about practices and the moments around games is how people treated me, how I treated others and the conversations we had outside of the game we shared. Between drills, standing on the sideline or chatting after the game Kwe and I stared truth in the eye and never steered away from what is trying to show us. Grateful she took the time to jump back into the rabbit hole of curiosity with me in this episode. Kweilin Katrina also known as Kwe' or Coach Kwe' is an author, entrepreneur, early childhood education advocate, and butterfly lover. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education, Human Services Management, and is an International Certified Infant Massage Instructor. Kweilin has been an entrepreneur since 2011 and has speeches and workshops for the National Association for the Education of Young Children, The Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children, as well as local school districts and county jails. Kwe' played women's professional football for 5 active seasons and then went on to become the first African American woman and the second woman since 1946 to coach high school football in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League. While there, she helped student-athletes earn scholarships and several of her Offensive Linemen made first team for the first time in over a decade under her coaching. Kwe' has a passion for teaching young children and developed a program that was conducted in local school during the summer months that taught over 300 children in from grades Kindergarten to 8 th Grade about S.T.E.A.M. Education. This program was operated under her very first business, Wofford ECE Consulting Group, LLC. Her firm also specialized in helping entrepreneur develop a solid business system and has volunteered over 2,000 class hours for inspiring entrepreneurs, which helped her earn the 2017 recipient for the Community Partner Award. Kwe' has also been a part-time instructor at the Community College of Allegheny County for 4 years to date. Currently, Kwe' is in the process of opening Kindergarten Prep Academy with Montessori inspiration and a focus on S.T.E.A.M. Education. She also operates an online preschool that currently has over 50 preschool students enrolled. In addition, Kwe' is a newly published author of a book called “Get Your Mind Right: 5 Kick Ass Life Principles That Actually Work”. Kwe' resides in a small city just outside of Pittsburgh, has 3 daughters, 3 grandchildren, and a 4-year-old black lab/pit name Blu. She enjoys writing and performing poetry, traveling, watching documentaries, and public speaking. Kwe' considers herself a early childhood warrior with a love of helping other overcome adversities in a positive way.  How you can connect with Kwe':  Tik Tok: @kweilinkatrina  Preschool website: https://fullsteamaheadkindergartenpreponline.com/ LinkedIn: Kweilin Katrina, A.S.T., B.S., C.I.M.I. Instagram: kwe412 Twitter: @1stLadyrebelKwe --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

As I write these show notes, I'm starting to see a theme emerge for this season. Maybe it was the headspace I was in and the reflection that took place as I thought of the folks in season four. Regardless of what higher power you name or believe in, it is clear to me, whatever or whoever that force is, they wanted me to reconnect with these individuals. The first two guests, I met in very pivotal chapters in my life. Jessica Malburg, as you will learn in this conversation, was also part of a massive season of change on my journey. The summer I spent the most time with Jessie, was the summer after I finished undergrad. Finishing college, by itself, is a pretty life altering event. But the three months leading up to that fall, that also meant every second was a countdown for me moving out of the state of Michigan for the first time and heading to grad school in Pennsylvania. I will say, with great confidence, there is a beautiful freedom when parts of your journey have a deadline.  When you know your time is limited, dragging your feet on what makes you feel the most alive feels like a disservice to your future self. So you run on the pool deck when you aren't suppose to and choose the cannonball because nothing is sexier, nor more fulfilling, than doing what makes you feel alive.  That summer, my friends and I, we all knew everything was going to change in September. So we ran on the deck and chose the cannonball. Which for us translated into staying up way too late listening to music, dancing, laughing so hard you can't breathe and often ending the night eating Hani's at the local Coney Island. I can taste that sandwich and smell the humid midnight Michigan air as I write this. Sometimes, when we fall in and out of each other's lives, it can be scary to reconnect. I'm grateful for the love, joy and grace Jessie and the folks in this season have generously offered me when I reached out to them after years between the last time we connected. This conversation with Jessie, for me, paints a picture of reconnecting on the old, the new and what could be in the future. Reconnecting and having this conversation was an absolute joy and I cannot wait to share it with you. I only wish ya'll could be enjoying a Hani while you listen. Jessica is a mother and nurse who is discovering more about the universe every day while on a journey to heal and become the best version of herself. She believes we are all interconnected and possess unimaginable power within us that we will all learn to harness in our own time. Some of her favorite ways to discover more about the universe are on YouTube & Instagram. Two of her go-to's are katnboots138  and PhilGoodLife --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Flex This was birthed from a deeper desire to have curious and meaningful conversations exploring the exquisite dance of complexity and simplicity on this journey of being a human. My personal training years didn't only provide me the opportunity to flex physical muscles. It also taught me the gift of exploring the vast beauty of being a human. Not all clients want to talk while they work out. However, Susan was never short in words (in the best kind of way). Susan has a fearlessness about her. You will hear more of that strength and drive throughout this episode. But what I really have loved talking about with Susan in training sessions and in this conversation is the power of saying yes to ourselves when we have a dream and vision. Throughout our conversation, you will hear Susan talking about leaning into the opportunities life presents to her, knowing, it is all an invitation from the flow of life. Susan and I haven't spoke in years, and it was so refreshing to connect and be in the presence of her fiery spirit. I'm excited to share this conversation with y'all! Susan Coe is a US Army Veteran and entrepreneur. Susan, who received her bachelor's in accounting from Nova Southeastern University, is the sole owner of Peace, Love & Zen Holistic Wellness Center. She is also the proud mother of her daughter, Melina. Prior to Susan's journey into holistic wellness and the healing arts, she spent 12 years as a flight attendant and 20 years as an entrepreneur. Through her personal experiences and endless research, Susan founded Peace, Love & Zen in 2013. With the motto “it's easier to stay well than get well,” Peace, Love & Zen's mission is to empower individuals to initiate, expand, and maintain their physical and spiritual wellness through the education and guidance of experienced and caring staff. Susan believes stress reduction and health maintenance are key elements to personal success. As such, she routinely offers complimentary services to at-risk populations from area non-profit agencies, and she provides discounts for active military, veterans, senior citizens, and minors. Susan is active in the community, serving as the Vice President on the East Liberty Quarter Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. She loves to spend time outdoors, especially in Florida. You can learn more about Susan's venture into holistic and healing arts at https://peaceloveandzen.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

When you look back over the years, you can start to piece sections together, much like chapters in a book. Reminiscing over my life and looking at those "chapters", I had a flashback to a conversation I had with Dan during a chapter that was incredibly transformational around my spiritual beliefs and owning my truth. I honestly couldn't tell you all the details of that conversation. When I reached out to him to ask if he would be willing to be on the podcast with me, Dan couldn't name all the details either. But what we both remember was having deep and meaningful conversations filled with curiosity and mutual respect. There have been numerous years and countless experiences between that chapter and this conversation. One of the things that I love about being a human is how we can move in and out of each others lives and some how cross paths at exactly the right time. This episode is a beautiful example of that. Dan Parisi is a business advisor, consultant, disruptive entrepreneur, and founder of Parisi Strategic, LLC—a strategic consulting firm specializing in branding, sales, and culture. Dan has worked in and around startups since 2009 and has experience in a wide variety of industries such as medical devices, automation/software, and industrial equipment manufacturing. Dan connects people, sees the unseen, and creates opportunities out of thin air. Dan works with companies of all sizes and throughout the entire lifecycle of their journey. Companies hire Dan to boost sales, build brands, and craft game changing strategies. Dan dreams big and values the fruits produced from failure. Dan lives in Meyersdale, PA with his wife Emily and their four children: Gemma (6), Vincent (5), Rocco (2), and Leo (1). Dan's latest venture will be launching an impact investment organization that will combine startups with longstanding businesses across rural America. You can learn more about Sourceree R&D at https://www.ruraldisruptive.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Last year at this time, I was taking my first steps towards launching Flex This. A year later, I'm kicking off 2022 with a FOURTH SEASON. I can't believe we are in season 4 and the ripples the podcast has made across the world. You heard me right, THE WORLD. Flex This has been played in 13 countries and 34 states US States. I'm so grateful to start season four and to have these conversations inspire folks to become the most authentic version of themselves. I am stoked to kickoff season 4 with an old friend. Bethany and I met during my personal training years many moons ago. From the moment we met, humor and transparency were foundational in how we navigated hard things (especially when I made Bethany do pistol squats). Something I cherish about my conversations with Bethany throughout the years is the way we talk about the world candidly with eyes of curiosity. Throughout this conversation, you will hear the balance of looking at life with eyes wide open to the rawness of what is and choosing to meet that truth with a heart of gratitude and joy.   Bethany is a Pittsburgh native who is self proclaimed to have "done a few things" in her life. She was a double major in college who thought her life plan would include law school, but found her gift in communications. Bethany has spent her entire adult life working in communications.  Not shy behind a microphone, Bethany has sang in bands all through her 20's and has continued entertaining people into her 30's and 40's through karaoke at every opportunity she's been given. Bethany has also been known to "surprise" bands playing at bars by rushing the stage and insisting she knows the harmony to the song they're playing. Both in and out of the spotlight, Bethany is the mother of two, grandmother of one, has a beloved life partner and a bulldog named Herman.  You can find Bethany on IG @bethanylruhe or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-ruhe-8710467 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

After my first recording with Maddie this season, I knew we needed to do a Deep Dive episode. Our first conversation was so healing and soul filling, I wanted to share that same cathartic energy into a single topic. As soon as I asked, Maddie was all in. If you listen to Maddie's episode, you will quickly learn the wealth of knowledge and expertise she graciously shares with humanity. When I asked her what topic she would like to discuss, without pause, Maddie said she wanted to talk about what was happening in Texas. Knowing the depth of information and topics Maddie knows, the lack of hesitation, my instant response was, "Oooh. Tell me more". To give context, this episode was recorded fall of 2021 in the midst Texas trying to push a devastating and polarizing attack one reproductive rights for women. When Maddie began to tell me her story, the gratitude I felt for being able to witness and hold space slowly turned to rage on. the hoops women continuously have to jump through.... Maddie McPherson had just turned 24 years old when she learned she was pregnant. She had only begun her dream job four months before, had accrued next to no paid leave, was in a long-distance relationship, and simply had envisioned a different life for herself than becoming a young parent. The decision to terminate her pregnancy was a no-brainer, but that doesn't mean the experience came without heartache and trauma. On this episode, Maddie tells her story in the shadow of the U.S. Supreme Court's consideration of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, the case that may end abortion access as we know it. Bringing awareness to the nuances of choosing abortion is Maddie's one goal, but Maddie and Jen also offer perspective on how our society's failure to support women and parents has enduring consequences for the United States at large. For our listeners, Maddie has generously compiled a list of websites and resources to educate and broaden all of our perspectives. https://www.brookings.edu/essay/why-has-covid-19-been-especially-harmful-for-working-women/ https://www.vox.com/2015/6/21/8820537/black-fathers-day https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr071.pdf https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2019/08/29/u-s-public-continues-to-favor-legal-abortion-oppose-overturning-roe-v-wade/ https://www.scotusblog.com/2021/12/majority-of-court-appears-poised-to-uphold-mississippis-ban-on-most-abortions-after-15-weeks/ I am so grateful for the courage Maddie had to share her story and for taking the time to do so. But even more so, I am so incredibly proud to call her my friend. You can find Maddie on Twitter @Maddie_McP --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I can't lie, when Dee said yes to joining me on the podcast, I was so excited and grateful she was willing to take time out of her day to chat with me. To give context, Dee and I work together at the same non-profit organization and have some really AMAZING conversations. The crazy thing is, I've never met Dee in person.  Like many people who made career changes and life transitions during this pandemic, I have learned the hard work of building authentic relationship with colleagues and within teams, what it means to work collaboratively over a screen, and used trial and error to find ways to connect in meaningful and purposeful ways outside of the norms we have been grown a custom to. I can say with confidence, from the jump, Dee and I brought the desire for authentic connection to the table. Though we don't work directly with each other, our work has intersected allowing us to meet in groups and 1:1. Each time we meet, it seems Dee and I make it a priority to begin and end each of our meetings with the most human part of ourselves. Deadlines and time boundaries are essential in the work place, however, it seems equally essential for us to authentically connect with each other as well. I won't pretend collaboration and connection happens with the snap of your fingers or that it can happen by accident. I'm learning it is an active choice, a muscle I flex, to do the work it requires to create and maintain a safe space where authenticity thrives. The choice becomes especially important when we are screen fatigued, emotionally drained, stressed and it becomes easier to rely on the habits and patterns we have worked hard to overcome. Throughout this conversation, Dee and I talk about the work of healing ourselves in order to heal the world around us and I'm stoked to share her story with you all. Deona Dorsey has over 15 years of experience working in organizations that focus on helping families improve the quality of their lives. She continues to reflect on the wisdom of her grandmother, the late Dr. L.A. Gonzales, who was an educator and advocate for undeserved children. It was her grandmother's influence that ignited her passion to be a positive change agent by volunteering, supporting, and collaborating with community-based organizations, businesses, and government agencies. Deona is successful in many of her roles that champion decision making for equitable impact in the community. In her role as a Program Specialist for the San Diego Workforce Partnership, it has allowed her to combine her philanthropic drive through workforce services and partnerships. You can find Deona on Instagram @dcwd or on LinkedIn. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Time is a funny thing. What feels like forever can happen in an instant and what feels like a moment can go on for eternity. My friendship with Laura Panozzo has been a bit like that. Laura and I met in college almost 20 years ago. During our tenure in college, Laura and I played on the same college basketball team, shared the same major, and were roommates for the last two years of school. It's safe to say, conversation and watching each other grow has been in the forefront of our relationship over the years. This episode is special to me not only because of the history and memories I have shared with Laura, but to see the way this journey of authenticity is always waiting for us and the ways life seems to bring us back to people we have met along the way. This conversation was one of the first times we reconnected "face to face" in well over 10 years and opened my eyes to the ways in which we are always connected to each other throughout each others lives - Whether if that's a stranger at the store, a childhood friend, or a moment shared with thousands at a concert, our stories and how we show up for each other is woven into the fabric of our being in ways we can't always predict, but most certainly never leaves us the same. Laura has spent the last 13 years working in higher education admissions and recruitment. She loves meeting students where they are and helping them find their path to where they want to go. Outside of education she spends her time coaching CrossFit and Olympic Weightlifting classes at her local gym. She believes in maintaining a healthy balance of physical well-being and mental well-being, while enjoying good beer and a damn good slice of pizza. You can find Laura on Instagram @pface21 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

My first job in San Diego provided me an opportunity to meet with each person within the organization. Each of these scheduled meeting's was intended for me to learn more about them as individuals, learn about what they do within the organization, and to find ways our roles would overlap and intersect. This is where Matt Willingham and I crossed paths. Within two minutes of meeting Matt, we were sharing human experiences, exchanging helpful books, quotes and podcasts in our own journey of authenticity, and going down the rabbit hole of exploring with joy and curiosity of what does it mean to be a person.  Being originally from Texas, I have loved hearing Matt's childhood stories and experiences growing up. The ways in which he reflects and examines his life with grace and care is lovely to witness. I personally have had the privilege over the years to sit with Matt and wrestle with life's wonder and complexity; just like we did the first time we met. I am so grateful he took the time to chat with me and record his story, how he sees and looks at the world around him, and the fearlessness he has in digging deep into topics to explore how he can grow, heal, and expand.  After gaining a degree in communication, Matt spent a decade overseas working to help nonprofits build out their brands and change the world, initially living two years in Thailand and then ultimately settling with his family in Iraq. Whether in the rubble of Syria, starved-out deserts of Somalia, or at a taco stand on El Cajon Boulevard, Matt is always on the hunt for a story that will compel, humanize, and bring people into conversation. Matt also enjoys learning languages and has experience speaking Thai, Kurdish, and Arabic. He and his wife, Cayla, have three children, love to travel, and are thrilled to be settled in sunny southern California. You can find Matt on Instagram @Matt.Willingham --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I have had the pleasure of sharing many curious conversations with Ellen throughout the years. Each time we chat, I love how willing she is to go down the “rabbit hole” of what if and leaning into the unknown. Ellen Crook is from Pittsburgh, Pa. She currently works in group health insurance, but that doesn't define Ellen. Ellen loves helping people, exploring new places, trying new things, and working on all-around self growth. She constantly works at remaining self-aware to find new ways to reinvent herself. Ellen believes we are all a work in progress and life continues to provide the tools needed to become the best version of yourself. You can find Ellen's personal Instagram @ellencrook or her podcast with her lifelong friend Jenna @shesmyperson --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Hamer was foundational in my fitness journey. Not only did he challenge how I looked at training the body, he pushed me to also examine how I challenge my mind as well. Hamer has a gift of giving away knowledge and pushing your capacity to be curious - I'm one of many that has become a better human from it. Hamer has 20 years of Division 1 strength and conditioning experience and currently works at Union Fitness. Within those 20 years Todd was the Director of Strength and Conditioning at the George Washington University where he oversaw all 27 teams and a staff of 6 strength coaches. Before his time at GW, Hamer spent time at Robert Morris, George Mason, The Citadel, Pitt, Penn State, as well as UNC-Chapel Hill. Todd has presented on the topic of training at more than 50 professional clinics and seminars. In addition, Hamer has been adjunct faculty at three universities and guest lectured on topics ranging from music, history, linguistics, as well as biological sciences. Hamer was nominated as the 2017 NSCA Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year and was also awarded the Presidential Distinguished Achievement Award during his time at Robert Morris. Todd has been published over 100 times, you can find him in elitefts, Muscle and Fitness, Men's Fitness, as well as other publications. In addition to his work, Hamer has competed in powerlifting for two decades and has completed the Rachel Carson hike tens times. Hamer is also an avid cyclist and has ridden his bicycle from Pittsburgh to Washington DC ten times. You can connect with Hamer on IG and Facebook. Excited to share this conversation with y'all. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

For those that know me and/or have been listening through all 3 seasons, it will be no surprise that I met today's guest through sport. Maddie McPherson and I met playing on the same professional women's football team in Pittsburgh. The thing I love about playing sports, especially demographically diverse sports, is how competing in sports provides an opportunity to bring folks from all walks of life to a single place determined to achieve a goal, mission and vision together. Truthfully, many of the people I have met throughout my life, wouldn't have been achievable without the sport we all choose. To be quite frank with y'all, I don't think I could have asked for a more messy and perfect way to expand how I see the world, nor could I have predicted how blessed my life would become encountering the full and beautifully rich spectrum the human story offers that can only be find sharing intimate spaces; In this case, humans I had the privilege to call "teammate". Maddie is one of those humans. Maddie and I have known each other for ten years and have stay connected through sharing a love for learning the depth of human story and a thirst for knowledge that expands beyond the surface. Since she was a child, Maddie has sought to understand the world. With that desire, a humbling journey to understanding herself has inevitably followed. I can speak to my own growth I have gained personally gained from Maddie's thirst to know and see the world intimately through our texts and conversations about hard things varying from policy to relating the world we perceive through music. Currently working toward her PhD in Criminology, Maddie stays focused on how to make the world a better place through facilitating personal connections between people and, ultimately, love. You can find Maddie on Twitter @Maddie_McP --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back to the Flex This Podcast. So excited to start season 3 with a human I spent many hours grappling with the curiosity, joy, confusion, and sometimes pain of being person in the world. We talk about the context of this answer at the beginning of the podcast, however, I wanted to share it in the show notes as well. Before we recorded, I asked David for a bio, this is what he shared with me, “What listeners should know: How do I speak to who I am? I'm a constant student -intentional and hopeful. I identify as a black man before a reach for the handle of citizenship. Maybe I'm a bundle of black boy magic, black boy Joy? I'm still figuring that out. but more than anything I work at discovering what it is to exist. My challenge is learning how to go about this experience; to attempt nurture a peace, especially when I'm not sure footed. All the while, grateful for the opportunity.” *Mic drop* I am so excited for y'all to hear this conversation and to have David's words and perspective inspire you to expand your own. You can connect with David via TikTok at @sawubrown where he is dropping exuberant levels of black boy Joy and grace into the world. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

This episode touches a deep place in my heart. Coming out is the journey of a lifetime. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, before we even say our truth out loud to the world, we spend hours inside of our heads reckoning with who we are, is it safe to share, and am I ready to risk belonging to stand in my truth. For those of us in the LGBTQ+ community, our coming out story is something we are asked to share with each other, and often, with the the world. But the reality is, you don't need to be a member of our community to have a truth you need to step into or a closet to hide in. Knowing our truths and releasing what no longer serves us takes courage and it is the work of the lifetime. Regardless of who you love, how you identify, the ways in which you pray/worship (if that is even part of your spiritual truth), or your race and ethnicity, we all have been impacted by what we have seen, who we spend our time with, the stories and narratives that we share, and are trying to figure out if that truth truly aligns with who we are and what we believe. I am incredibly grateful Greg took the time to share his story. Throughout our entire conversation, I was reminded the work of owning our truth and finding our purpose is never finished; And it most certainly isn't a linear path. To offer full transparency, this beautiful and raw conversation with Greg has some intense themes and may be inappropriate for children. I am so grateful for Greg, his story, and the sacred gift it offered me to be a listening ear on his journey. Greg Elsasser has been a high school and junior high teacher in Los Angeles county for thirty years and is currently teaching English. He is a published playwright of eight plays, the novel The Field Trip, and the creator/writer of the award-winning television series The Adventures of Roman and Jorge, He has also been known to hypnotize a chicken and put it on YouTube. He has three sons and lives in Southern California. You can connect with Greg on Facebook at Greg Elsasser or on Instagram @gregorythemediocre --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Throughout this conversation with Fay, you will see a theme of looking at what a culture defines as valuable and all the ways, we as women, work to dismantle those narratives in our own hearts and minds. Self-love is the daily practice of undoing the layers that cloud the truth we are all inherently worthy and have immeasurable value just by existing on this planet. Fay and I share how we individual work to stand firm in that knowing and how to block out the noise that tells us otherwise. We unpack all the stories we tell ourselves and how those lies can prevent us from our purpose and knowing our worth. Fay takes deep pause to look back at moments in her life and shares with grace how she combatted the voice in her head with the practice of self-love. We talk about how we navigate our inner worlds to root ourselves in our highest truth and the lifelong journey of learning you don't need permission to be valuable and to live out your truth. I am honored and grateful to have been able to share sacred space with Fay and to hear her story. Head to https://www.faywolf.com/ to find all the ways Fay is gifting the world with her creative works.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Much of the ideas around Flex This were birthed through the conversations I have had with today's guest. Jessica Snyder (she/her) is a 5th grade English and Language Arts teacher at Pittsburgh Phillips K-5 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In addition to her classroom duties, she works with the PPS Queer Equity committee, where she advocates for queer students and teachers from an educator's perspective. Most recently, she completed the AFT's Teacher Leader program where she conducted research on the benefits of LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum and practices in public schools. Previously working with Jessi, I have always been in awe of how she uses her voice to advocate for those who are still trying to find their own. Jessi also has an innate ability to hold spaces that invite the exploration of feelings and ideas without judgement or fear. (I have seen this craft of meeting conflict with grace first hand.) You can find Jessi on Twitter @Jessinpgh or on Instagram @Jessimaepgh --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

There are people that cross your path and remind you of the goodness and grace that comes with being alive; Thomas is exactly that person. Thomas and I talk about the importance of aligning and honoring your truth even as it changes and evolves throughout your life. We share how we recognize things showing up in our own journeys to teach us more about ourselves and the benefits of leaning into that hard (but rewarding) work with gratitude and humility. Thomas and I discuss how the gift of authenticity modeled in our own lives empowers others to do the same in theirs and offers a safe space for people, even strangers, to explore their own authentic truth. My conversation with Thomas was a gentle reminder to my own soul of why I believe in the power and purpose of our own sacred truth. I am so grateful and honored for the stories and grace Thomas offers the world, and myself, in this conversation. You can find Thomas on Instagram @thomaswesleydouglas --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Healing is a sacred practice and the work of a lifetime. Amanda De Luz shares in this episode all the sacred ways she intertwines being a healer, a mom and a business woman throughout her life. The multiple hats she wears are inspiring in themselves, but the grace in which she shares her story filled me with hope. Throughout this conversation Amanda and I often return to reflecting on an issue and the ways we heal from it. From being a mom in the midst of a pandemic to healing wounds from our childhood, Amanda and I walk through the adversities 2020 (and now moving into 2021) have presented us as individuals. We also discuss what that impact has had on humanity as a whole. For me, our entire conversation paints a clear picture of Amanda's passion for creating healing spaces. You can find her healing work at www.amandadeluz.com. Hope this conversation fills you up as much as it did me.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I am really excited to share this conversation I had with Ashley Soro. We discuss triggers and trauma, how to heal and move forward, and how hitting your 30's is one of the best chapters in your life. Ashley has been a life long athlete. The lens in which she sees the world and how she uses that lens to reflect on herself really hit home for me. As an athlete, there always seems to be a goal to achieve and something new to chase. For me, this is one of the beautiful things about living in the human body: it's the one thing you have control over. I'm not saying you can become Olympic level athletes at the snap of a finger. However, you get to own how you treat, train, and love the body you were given. I appreciate Ashley's bravery in sharing how she works through the cloud of shame in her every day life and continues to pursue her own version of greatness every day. You can find Ashley on Instagram @ashleysorolifestyleandfitness or head over to her website https://ashleysoro.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome back to season two of Flex This! I'm starting this season with an episode that mirrors the thousands of conversations throughout my life that sparked my passion to create Flex This. Over my 37 years on this planet, I have had the privilege to have met so many amazing humans and have conversations that helped me grow and expand as a person. Many times, I walked away wishing I wasn't the only person that listened to and witnessed the gift of the human across from me and the dialogue we just shared. There is power in our authenticity and when that authenticity continues to work and adapt and expand to the highest version of that truth, I believe that power transcends and connects us all.  In that spirit, I'm starting this season with an unedited conversation that, for me, displays that exact transcending power. As a disclaimer, this conversation with Gatsby has adult content that might not be suitable for children. Gatsby and I talk about what it was like for him growing up in Atlanta, we discuss putting ourselves in the shoes of someone we don't share the same beliefs with, and you will find a common theme of unpacking questions that reflect the duality of existing on this planet. For me, this conversation shows just how powerful our stories are and when we can hold space for one another with grace and curiosity, the beauty of connection that waits for us on the other side. Gatsby Coram is an actor and artist originally from Atlanta and his lived in California for the last 12 years. I hope this conversation impacts you as much as it did me. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Toxic masculinity impacts both men and women. For some women, it has prevented them from having meaningful relationships with their fathers and brothers, current and future partners, and lurks as fear in the shadows of alleyways, long runs and simply existing on the planet. For men, I can imagine, it has forced a standard of living that is impossible to maintain and doesn't give permission to be an emotional being. I cannot speak on the experience and impact cultural norms have had on men, but I can speak to how those norms translate into my own lens. In this Deep Dive, Brian and I talk about all the ways societal norms of what it means to be a man have impacted how he showed up in the world, the ways in which he engages in friendships and relationships, and his path to remove those ideas to find his personal truth on what it means to be a man. Brian touches on the impact of his childhood and familial roots that helped establish the narrative of what it meant for him to be a man and how he embraces the journey of unlearning and building his own truth of how he wants to show up in the world. I am so grateful for Brian's courage to share his story and journey with the world and offering me the privilege of sharing space with him in that process.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Gena has been a force of love in the lives of so many different humans across the board. From coworkers to kids sprinkled across the city of Pittsburgh, Gena has woven her strength as an ally for humanity in every place she goes. I have had the privilege to work with Gena and to call her a friend. I am grateful for the ways she continues to plant seeds with kids every year, reminds them how valuable they are, and invites adults do to the same. You can find Gena's work at https://theesteemgroup.org/about/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

In this conversation with Kate McGurk, we discuss relationships and the pressures social media put on us to show a polished a version. We shared what it means to create and own your story, growing up as a millennial, and how to self reflect along the way. Hope y'all enjoy listening to this conversation as much I did having it. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

There are people you meet in your life that something immediately clicks. My friendship with Brian has been exactly that. In this episode, you'll hear how we met, what made us connect immediately, and how we have maintained our friendship over the years. Sharing a lot of the same humor and sarcasm, Brian and I often find ourselves working through the complexities of life with a balance of joy and blunt truth. I'm grateful to not only call Brian my friend, but to have been able to have had so many deep dive conversations with him along the way. You can find Brian talking hoops at https://youtube.com/user/homecourtedgehoops --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Being one of my childhood friends, Lydia and I have had a lot of practice in having conversations about becoming the best version of ourselves. I am continuously grateful for the people in my life that have held space for me to become who I am today. In this convo, we discuss all the ways this journey of personal growth and expansion has showed up in our lives. Grateful for Lydia and the healing impact she leaves in the world. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

In this deep dive, Evan and I talk body image, our relationships with food, and the process of learning what truly aligns with our needs. We dig deep and share about our own personal journey's on how we got to living and loving the skin we are in today. We discuss how the perceptions of ourselves can get cloudy with the noise of social media telling us to look a certain way or that we should be certain things. Grateful for this conversation with Evan on how we stay true to ourselves through the all distractions and the power of loving yourself, most importantly, on this journey. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

In this episode, Evan and I talk about his journey of becoming an actor, the importance of staying true to himself while playing different roles, and how being your most authentic self is the key to true success. We also dive into the complexities of American culture and how it is represented in the world of sports. We also discuss the benefits of therapy and the impacts of living in a digital world. This is a robust conversation that I cannot wait to share with ya'll. I am incredibly grateful for this conversation with Evan. If you want to give Even a follow, you can find him on Instagram and Twitter @theevansloan. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

In this conversation, Courtney and I talk about recognizing moments when you're no longer growing and how to lean into that as a moment of opportunity. We discuss how complex identity is through race, being an athlete, and transitioning into next steps of the journey of personal growth. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I'm so grateful to have friends like Ashley in my life that aren't afraid to dive into the unknown and rumble with what we might find there. In this conversation, Ashley and I dive deep on the definition of imposter syndrome, how it has shown up in our lives, and what we are doing to navigate it right now. I'm so appreciative of these conversations and people like Ashley that are willing to face something not fully understood with curisioty and joy. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

On my own personal journey of growth and expansion, I find an important tool for me is having people that ask me hard questions, hold me accountable, and aren't afraid to go down the "rabbit hole" of creative ideas along the way. Ashley Douglas has not only been a fantastic friend over the years, but she has been a think tank and accountability partner on my journey. When I think about what it means to find your tribe of humans that are doing self reflection and aren't afraid to get vulnerable and rumble with their personal experiences, Ashley is for sure on that list. Grateful for Ashley, her friendship, and this amazing conversation I get to share with ya'll. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

I had the absolute privilege of sitting down and talking with Eddie Blackwell about personal growth, the power of family and faith, and what it means to be true to yourself through it all. You can find Eddie on Instagram @ReadyEddieBlackwell and Twitter @ReadyEddie318 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

Welcome to Flex This with Jen Hoffman. In this episode, I share what Flex This means, where it came from, and why I think curiosity is one of our greatest super powers. This season, I had the privilege of unpacking conversations around race, identity, how hard it is to "adult", and was left feeling inspired and grateful along the way. If these conversations inspire or encourage you, I would love hear from you! You can send me a message via Instagram @flexthispodcast or find me on Anchor to leave a voice message.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/flexthis/message

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