Impact Ready

In this episode, Steph explores the significance of relationships in our lives based on 3 different types of people. We've all felt the struggle and stress around relationships to some degree and it often comes down to our resistance we have to what is real and true about that relationship. How can we release that resistance? By understanding the role of different relationships in our life—the leaves, branches, and roots. Each type of relationship offers something unique. By recognizing these dynamics, we can release resistance and expectations, leading to greater ease and appreciation for the people in our lives.Chapters00:00 Understanding Relationships Through Nature's Lens09:06 The Tree Analogy: Leaves, Branches, and Roots10:00 Embracing the Seasons of RelationshipsSign up for "The Impact Effect" newsletter at www.stephsaffer.com

In this episode, Steph shares a piece of advice given to her by one of her old coaches: "Your one job is to stay high." She was referring to maintaining a high frequency in life, and it's taken a few years for that lesson to truly sink in. Drawing from personal experiences and coaching insights, she explains how emotions can be measured on a frequency scale, with higher frequencies associated with positive emotions like joy and gratitude. Steph emphasizes that staying high frequency not only enhances personal fulfillment but also accelerates progress and attracts positive outcomes. She concludes with practical strategies for listeners to elevate their emotional baseline and take control of their mindset.Chapters00:00 The Importance of High Frequency Living09:30 How to Achieve High Frequency LivingSign up to receive "The Impact Effect" newsletter at www.stephsaffer.com

In this episode, Steph explores the universal experience of navigating life's challenges and being in the "dark" moments. She discusses how the contrast in life, the process of grief, and the significance of shadow work all contribute to personal expansion and growth. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, she emphasizes the role of community support while also highlighting the fact that some of this work just has to be done alone. And that there is beauty in that process. The conversation encourages listeners to honor their struggles and recognize their strength in overcoming adversity.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Announcement01:32 Navigating Loneliness in Hard Times03:54 The Importance of Shadow Work07:15 The Role of Community Support09:02 Personal Reflections on Grief and Isolation14:13 Embracing the Darkness for Growth16:47 Conclusion and Call to ActionSign up for "The Impact Effect" newsletter at www.stephsaffer.com

In this conversation, Steph talks about the common feeling of being stuck in life and "being in the fog." She describes what it looks like to be in that place and how universally frustrating it feels to not be able to see the path ahead. She connects it to the importance of understanding one's impact and how working on your impact is one of the most powerful ways to clear the fog in your life. She emphasizes the need for clarity, ownership, and intentionality in creating the life one desires. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how embracing one's influence can lead to empowerment and a clearer path forward.Chapters00:00 Feeling Stuck: A Common Experience02:34 The Importance of Impact07:30 Clearing the Fog: Steps to Empowerment08:57 Embracing Your InfluenceStay in touch with me! Sign up to receive "The Impact Effect" newsletter at www.stephsaffer.com

In this conversation, Steph explores the concept of perspective and how our vantage points shape our understanding of reality. Through humorous anecdotes and relatable analogies, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing different perspectives in our daily lives, relationships, and workplace dynamics. She provides 3 practical strategies for shifting our vantage points to gain a broader understanding and improve communication and empathy.Chapters00:00 The Kitchen Cleaning Revelation02:17 Understanding Different Perspectives07:12 The Power of Vantage Points12:28 Strategies for Changing PerspectivesSign up for "The Impact Effect" newsletter at www.stephsaffer.com

In this episode, Steph explores the theme of getting uncomfortable in order to create change in life, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. She discusses how comfort can hinder personal growth and transformation, while discomfort can lead to resilience and courage. She talks about the role of mirror neurons in modeling behavior, as well as the balance between intention and surrender in the pursuit of personal goals. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth and meaningful change.Chapters00:00 The Quest for Change02:18 The Comfort Zone Dilemma05:00 Embracing Discomfort for Growth08:12 The Power of Discomfort in Relationships10:00 Balancing Intention and Surrender11:28 The Challenge of Discomfort12:22 Conclusion and Call to ActionSign up for Steph's bimonthly newsletter "The Impact Effect" here at www.stephsaffer.com

In this conversation, Steph talks about the big lessons she learned during her decade-long journey in teaching spin classes, emphasizing the importance of impact, energy, and connection. The spin fanatic in her starts to come out a little as she reflects on her experiences in the studio, the lessons learned from her clients, and the universal truths about lifting others up and the strength found in community. Through her stories, she highlights how teaching has shaped her understanding of motivation and authenticity, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their own power to impact others positively.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: Discovering Impact Through Spin Teaching01:48 The Electric Atmosphere of Spin Classes09:41 Lessons Learned: Energy, Connection, and Empowerment19:05 The Lasting Impact of Teaching Spin

In this episode, Steph talks about the importance of planning for joy in our lives. She emphasizes that while we often schedule work and responsibilities, we don't get purposeful about the stuff we actually want to make time for: the fun and play. We have to intentionally carve out time for joy and fulfillment. By identifying what brings us joy, communicating it with loved ones, and scheduling it on our calendars, we improve overall well-being and prevent burnout. The conversation highlights the need for balance and the power of being intentional about our happiness.Chapters00:00 Planning for Joy03:12 Incorporating Joy into Daily Life05:39 Steps to Schedule Joy08:03 The Challenge of Finding Joy

In this episode, Steph talks about planning and preparing in a different way...this time in regards to PACE. She emphasizes the need for speed in life can be great, but left unchecked often leads to burnout for people. She describes setting "upper" and "lower" bounds for efforts, and how it can help people maintain consistency and make meaningful progress without overwhelming themselves. The conversation draws on the classic fable of the tortoise and the hare to illustrate that slow and steady efforts often lead to greater success than a fast but unsustainable approach.Chapters00:00 Finding Your Sustainable Pace01:51 The Importance of Clarity and Vision04:32 Understanding Upper and Lower Bounds09:32 The Tortoise and the Hare: A Lesson in Pacing

In this conversation, Steph talks about the importance of managing our input, the information coming at us from everything external, and sometimes "putting our blinders on". All input has an influence on the story we tell about ourselves our our life and our circumstances. She emphasizes the need to navigate distractions, be intentional about our input, and protect our energy in a chaotic world. Through personal anecdotes and insights, she encourages listeners to put on their blinders to maintain clarity and effectiveness in their lives.Chapters00:00 The Power of Community and Connection01:53 Navigating Distractions and Staying Focused04:30 The Story We Tell Ourselves08:13 Managing Input During Challenging Times11:54 Protecting Your Energy and Intentional Living

In this episode, Steph calls out the importance of time management in a world filled with distractions. With a quick breakdown of how much time people spend on screens, she addresses the pushup she often gets from clients about how they "don't have enough time." She emphasizes the need for individuals to take ownership of their schedules, set boundaries, and recognize their 'magic hour' for productivity. Steph also highlights the significance of planning ahead and honoring one's time to create a balanced and fulfilling life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Time Management Challenges03:40 Understanding the Impact of Technology on Time07:01 Taking Ownership of Your Schedule10:54 Strategies for Effective Time Management13:54 The Importance of Honoring Your Time

In this episode, Steph talks about the idea of 'playing small' in life, exploring its roots in fear and limiting beliefs. She shares the first time someone asked her that questions, and what it spurred on as a result. This conversation is about the importance of recognizing where we hold back and challenging ourselves to step into our full potential. Ask yourself these questions: "Where am I playing small?" And "what would it look like to play big right now?" Throughout, Steph encourages you to embrace your power and take bold actions towards your dreams and the life you want.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Playing Small01:27 Personal Journey and Realizations03:39 Understanding the Fear of Playing Small08:05 Shifting from Small to Big11:28 The Importance of Taking Up Space14:03 Challenge to Play Bigger

In this episode, Steph discusses the importance of finding clarity in how we want to feel in our lives. She emphasizes that many people struggle to articulate their desired feelings and often get lost in the pursuit of achievements, leading to a sense of lack. Through the parable of the fisherman and the banker, she illustrates the concept of 'enough' and encourages listeners to recognize that feelings of peace, joy, and freedom can be accessed now, rather than waiting for future achievements. The episode concludes with a challenge to live boldly and choose to feel the desired emotions in the present moment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Feelings and Clarity05:08 The Pursuit of Goals and Achievements10:13 The Parable of the Fisherman14:43 Choosing to Feel Now

In this episode, Steph explores the concept of stagnation, discussing its various forms and how it manifests in people's lives. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing stagnation in areas such as health, relationships, finances, and personal growth. The conversation highlights the pain of feeling stuck and the necessity of taking action to break free from these patterns. Steph provides insights into how to differentiate between true stagnation and temporary transitions, encouraging listeners to create momentum in their lives to foster growth and change.Chapters00:00 Understanding Stagnation03:01 The Impact of Stagnation on Life05:53 Breaking Free from Stagnation08:57 Creating Momentum for Change

In this celebratory 100th episode of the Impact Ready Podcast, Steph reflects on the journey of creating the podcast, emphasizing the importance of recognizing your impact and the power of perspective in facing struggles. This episode is focused on her current mood: to "look for the light". She shares personal insights on finding light in difficult times and the significance of appreciation as a pathway to joy and fulfillment. The episode encourages listeners to practice appreciation and connection in their lives, and reminds us that we are not alone in our experiences.Chapters00:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes04:27 The Power of Perspective09:40 Finding Light in Struggles12:01 Cultivating Appreciation15:19 Looking for the Light Together

In this episode, Steph discusses strategies to improve mental resilience, emphasizing the importance of consistency in health and introducing a framework known as the four P's: Plan Ahead, Prioritize, Peace and Power, and Pivot. Each component is explored in detail, providing listeners with actionable insights to enhance their mental toughness and adaptability in the face of life's challenges.Chapters01:30 Introduction to Mental Resilience03:14 The Four P's Framework for Resilience14:59 Implementing the Four P's in Daily Life

In this episode, Steph discusses the profound impact of personal growth and self-development, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various aspects of life. She contrasts the reductionistic mindset prevalent in Western culture with a holistic approach that recognizes how personal growth influences all areas of life. Through metaphors of water flowing into pools, she illustrates how investing in oneself can lead to improvements across the board, encouraging listeners to focus on root issues rather than seeking specific solutions for every problem.Chapters00:00 The Ripple Effect of Personal Growth08:58 Holistic vs. Reductionistic Approaches to Life

In this episode, Steph discusses one of the most common limiting beliefs for people: that things in life have to be HARD. She describes how in our society and culture it is easy to pick up messages that the struggle and grind are necessary for anything good to come in. She admits to this being one of her historical limiting beliefs, and shares her personal journey of accepting a challenge from her coach to adopt a mindset of ease. She goes on to show how this shift has positively impacted her life, and how it is relevant for every realm of life. By inviting ease into her daily experiences, she describes how she's noticed significant changes in her interactions and overall well-being. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to adopt a mindset of ease in their own lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mindset of Ease05:05 Challenging Limiting Beliefs10:31 Experiencing Ease in Life14:25 Invitation to Embrace Ease

In this episode, Steph discusses the importance of preparation and consistency in achieving a powerful impact in life. She talks about how often people have the reverse order of needs in their life: work, then family, then self. She acknowledges how people have a lot of moving parts they have to take into account, and when "self" is low on the priority list, it often lead to low energy and burnout. By reevaluating priorities and focusing on self-care, listeners can improve their energy levels and overall well-being. The conversation also highlights the three pillars of health—exercise, nutrition, and sleep—and the significance of planning for recovery and relationships. Small, intentional changes can lead to significant improvements in life satisfaction and energy management.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Preparation06:55 Overcoming Roadblocks to Preparation13:02 Reevaluating Priorities for Energy Management19:30 Planning for Energy and Well-Being25:55 Small Changes for Big Impact

In this episode, Steph discusses the interplay between physical health and mental strength, particularly in the face of adversity. She describes that in times when you might not be at your peak physical strength, you have the opportunity to work on having a strong mind. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate identity crises related to physical limitations. The conversation highlights characteristics of a strong mind, such as self-management, flexibility, and purpose-driven thinking, and encourages listeners to focus on mental resilience as a pathway to personal growth and healing.Chapters00:00 The Interconnection of Mind and Body05:44 Defining Strength of Mind08:02 Cultivating Resilience and Opportunity

In this episode, Steph suggests the idea that rather than conflict being a bad thing, instead conflict could be a catalyst to something positive, like breaking apart old unhealthy patterns. She explores the themes of people pleasing and conflict, emphasizing how these elements can hinder personal growth and self-worth. She discusses the negative impacts of letting "saboteurs" or limiting beliefs run the show in your life, and encourages listeners to approach conflict with curiosity rather than fear. The challenge this week is to shift the frame around conflict so we can recognize our needs and embrace conflict as a means to foster healthier relationships and our own growth.Chapters00:00 Understanding Conflict and People Pleasing02:03 The Role of Conflict in Personal Growth04:27 Transforming Conflict into Opportunity

In this episode, Steph talks about one of the missing links to having great impact and also great fulfillment in life: deep work. So often the best things come from our efforts of flow - undistracted, concentrated time where we can tap into creativity and share our gifts with the world. She shares insights from a coaching session with a client who struggled with guilt over prioritizing self-care and family time over business tasks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating space for deep work, overcoming distractions, and taking actionable steps towards personal and professional fulfillment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Deep Work and Guilt01:31 Understanding Misalignment in Work and Self-Care04:07 The Challenge of Creating Space for Deep Work06:51 The Importance of Prioritizing Meaningful Work

In this episode, Steph discusses the importance of maintaining a high frequency in life to foster better relationships and personal growth. She emphasizes that our energy and the frequency we emit significantly influence our experiences and interactions. The conversation covers practical steps to raise one's frequency, the impact of surrounding oneself with positive influences, and the necessity of taking personal responsibility for one's energy and happiness.Chapters00:00 The Importance of High Frequency05:20 Strategies to Raise Your Frequency10:28 The Impact of Community on Frequency

In this episode, Steph discusses the power of moments. She reflects on the concept of 'pit moments' and how they can be transformed into more positive experiences. Through the story from a book by Dan Heath about a GE designer Doug Dietz and his innovative approach to redesigning MRI experiences for children, she emphasizes how we as humans have the ability to reimagine difficult situations and change someone's entire experience. Steph talks candidly about how it can be challenging to accept help from other during low times, but encourages listeners to embrace both giving and receiving support, highlighting the ripple effects of kindness and connection.Chapters00:00 The Power of Moments00:56 Facing Challenges: A Personal Journey08:01 Reimagining Experiences: Transforming Pit Moments09:43 The Importance of Support and Connection

In this episode, Steph talks about the concept of the 'algorithm of your life,' drawing parallels between social media algorithms and the universe's tendency to reflect our focus and beliefs. What so many people don't realize is that they are actively creating their own reality using the algorithm of their thoughts, feelings and language of their life. She emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding our internal terrain, the language we use, and how our thoughts shape our experiences. By shifting our focus and actively seeking positive experiences, we can create the life we desire. The conversation also highlights the significance of maintaining high energy levels and recognizing beautiful moments, even during challenging times.Chapters00:00 The Algorithm of Your Life05:19 Shifting Your Internal Algorithm09:25 Seeking Beautiful Moments11:57 Creating Your Life's Narrative

In this heartfelt episode, Steph shares her recent personal process of being diagnosed with breast cancer and talks about the profound impact of fear on her life. She discusses the emotional challenges of facing a health crisis, the importance of vulnerability, and the necessity of addressing and managing fear. Through her experiences, she emphasizes "action over anxiety" and the significance of maintaining mental strength even in the face of something truly hard. Steph encourages listeners to observe and acknowledge their fears, rather than pushing them back down. She challenges you to find empowerment in the struggles, and recognize that you can get through the hard and have incredible impact in the meantime.Chapters00:00 Facing the Diagnosis02:35 Understanding Fear and Vulnerability05:11 The Journey of Diagnosis10:44 Identifying and Managing Fear16:01 Releasing Fear and Finding Strength21:22 Embracing the Challenge23:48 Empowerment Through Fear

In this episode, Steph discusses the idea of stepping into your personal power. Many people struggle to have the impact they want due to a lack of personal power. Steph describes 3 main ways people lose it: Fear, low energy and lack of community. She also describes 3 things that can help you step into it: Coaching, strength training and solo/quiet time. There's so many ways we can show up in the world, but it's time to stop short changing yourself. Identify what steals your personal power and create strategies to combat those things. Committing to play big can lead to greater impact in life.Chapters00:00 Understanding Personal Power02:25 Radical Ownership and Responsibility04:51 The Impact of Fear and Energy06:45 Building Community and Support08:57 Tools for Empowerment10:54 The Importance of Physical Strength13:03 Quiet Time for Inner Reflection14:51 Commitment to Personal Power

We all know how important it is to have great energy in life. It's the gateway to getting what we want and having great impact. In this conversation, Steph discusses the critical role of energy, emphasizing the distinction between physical energy and heart energy. She explains how heart energy, which is linked to our emotional and spiritual well-being, can significantly impact our vitality and overall life experience. Steph describes how to be aware of heart energy and when it gets blocked. The challenge is to practice keeping the heart open to enhance your creativity, motivation, and connections with others.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Energy02:27 Understanding Heart Energy04:29 The Connection Between Heart and Physical Energy07:16 The Impact of Open Heart Energy09:15 Practicing Heart Energy Awareness

In this episode, we talk about the concept of purpose...understanding what it is and why we need it in our lives. We discussing how it shapes our experiences and that purpose is a fundamental human need that drives us to seek meaning and fulfillment. In general, we are our best and most powerful selves when we are on purpose. It improves our energy, health, happiness and of course, our influence. We talk about 5 ways that purpose can shape your impact, and why that matters. In closing, we want to understand our personal 'whys' behind our actions, knowing that purpose is not a fixed destination but an evolving journey.Chapters00:00 The Quest for Purpose01:34 Understanding the Importance of Purpose03:55 Purpose as a Foundation for Impact06:14 The Science Behind Purpose08:38 Building Resilience Through Purpose10:30 The Journey to Discovering Purpose

In this episode, Steph addresses the enormous amount of small impacts people can have in the world though their actions and simply their presence. Many people forget that what they do and how they show up matters, and it can have lasting effects on the people around them. We call these the "ripple effects" and many of them you will never know about in your life. These ripples can be profound and often unnoticed by you. Steph illustrates how small gestures of kindness and authenticity can create significant influence. She also highlights the need for consistency in the energy we bring into different spaces, as our influence is constantly observed by others. Just because we can't always see the ripples, doesn't mean they aren't happening. You never know whose life you might change. Chapters00:00 Understanding Our Impact01:43 The Ripple Effect of Our Actions04:20 The Power of Authenticity06:35 The Unseen Influence We Have09:14 Being Intentional with Our Energy11:25 Trusting the Process of Impact

In this episode, Steph talks about how to tackle one of the big roadblocks to impact: self-doubt and discouragement. She introduces a technique to rediscover the 'leader within'—the best version of oneself—encouraging listeners to tap into their true essence to overcome obstacles and live a fulfilling life. Steph shares how she got to know her own leader within and how she uses it today. The conversation highlights the significance of managing external inputs to lessen the impact of fear. Overall, when we get to know these different facets of self, it allows us to be in choice about the story we tell and how we create our life. Chapters00:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear05:59 Rediscovering Your Inner Leader12:44 Identifying Your Best Self

In this episode, Steph explores the pervasive issue of expectations and the less-than-desirable effects on personal and professional relationships. We all want less conflict in life, more peace, and more fulfillment...not more stress. Expectations are a recipe for failure, and Steph emphasizes the importance of acceptance and the need to shift from expectations to agreements to foster better communication and collaboration. By creating mutual commitments, people can reduce frustration and resentment, leading to more impactful interactions. The conversation highlights the significance of radical ownership in relationships and the power of engaging in meaningful discussions to build trust and accountability.Chapters00:00 The Roadblock of Expectations06:43 Shifting from Expectations to Agreements14:36 Radical Ownership in Relationships

In this episode, Steph addresses the way people talk to themselves. She uses the example of her stepdaughter talking down to herself after she tried out for a solo performance. Steph breaks down the concept of defensive pessimism, its psychological effects, and the distinction between being prepared and simply being pessimistic. The conversation emphasizes the significance of high-frequency emotions in achieving success and the power of perspective in shaping our experiences.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Achievements: Upcoming Carnegie Hall Performance02:25 The Challenge of Self-Belief in Adolescence04:48 Understanding Defensive Pessimism: A Double-Edged Sword07:04 The Impact of Energy and Mindset on Relationships09:40 Choosing Optimism: The Power of High Frequency Emotions11:13 Broadcasting Positivity: Creating Opportunities in Life

In this episode, Steph discusses the profound impact of relationships, particularly intimate partnerships, on our lives. She looks at relationships through the lens of having powerful impact and talks about some key factors in making that happen: radical ownership, emotional intelligence, mutual support, gratitude and appreciation, as well as the significance of personal growth and adaptability within partnerships. Ultimately, the goal is to create a fulfilling and joyful relationship that can weather life's challenges together.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Relationships05:44 Radical Ownership in Partnerships10:40 Building a Supportive and Connected Relationship15:15 The Power of Gratitude and Appreciation

In this conversation, Steph shares insights on navigating uncertainty and stress. What helps people get through times of uncertainty? Acceptance, recognizing what we can control, and managing fear. The conversation highlights that fear is a natural part of life, but it doesn't have to dictate our actions. Instead, we can learn how to "move despite the fear." By embracing what is, moving even with uncertainty, and taking intentional steps, we can create a supportive environment that fosters resilience and personal growth.

In this episode, Steph revisits the theme of breaking down emotional armor to embrace authenticity and vulnerability. Inspired by a recent story from a friend relating to a past episode (Ep 75 "Break Apart the Armor"), she shares how being genuine can create powerful connections and impact communities. Through a real-life story of a physician's testimony, she illustrates the importance of showing one's true self in, even and especially in, professional settings. The conversation emphasizes that true connection leads to joy, peace, and opportunities. May we all have the impact we have by breaking apart our own armor.Chapters00:00 Breaking Down Emotional Armor02:24 The Power of Authenticity in Communication03:58 Real-Life Impact of Vulnerability

In this episode, Steph addressees one of the top values/desires/goals that humans have: FREEDOM. She gives 5 different ways to access freedom in your life, but through the lens of "cleaning or clearing." She emphasizes the importance of decluttering physical spaces, cleaning up language and mindset, nurturing healthy relationships, prioritizing health, and achieving financial clarity as key components to experiencing freedom. By addressing these areas, you can access that feeling of freedom every single day, even while pursuing your larger freedom goals.Chapters00:00 The Pursuit of Freedom01:57 Five Simple Ways to Access Freedom05:03 Cleaning Up Your Language and Relationships07:29 The Importance of Health for Freedom09:09 Financial Freedom as a Key to Overall Freedom

In this episode, Steph discusses a solution to the culture wide challenge of feeling overwhelmed: the practice of getting quiet. She emphasizes the importance of solitude for mental health, balance in life, and tuning into one's inner voice. By establishing a consistent practice of solitude, individuals can reconnect with themselves, manage stress, and enhance their overall well-being. The conversation highlights the need for balance between active and quiet energies, and encourages listeners to create sacred spaces in their lives for reflection and peace.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Overwhelm and Solitude01:56 The Importance of Getting Quiet04:20 Balancing Yang and Yin Energy07:14 Reconnecting with Intuition08:31 Establishing a Consistent Practice10:24 The Impact of Daily Solitude

In this episode, Steph explores the complex and often elusive concept of happiness. She discusses the paradox of striving for success while feeling unfulfilled, the personal nature of happiness, and the myths that surround it. Drawing on insights from positive psychology, she emphasizes that happiness is not solely dependent on achievements or circumstances but is an "inside job," an internal state that can be cultivated. The conversation highlights the profound impact that happiness can have on individuals and their ability to create positive change in the world. Chapters 00:00 The Happiness Advantage: An Introduction 06:12 Myths Surrounding Happiness 10:29 The Power of Perspective in Happiness

In this episode, Steph reflects on her recent experience at a live event with her mastermind group, where speakers shared deeply personal and vulnerable stories. She describes how the power in their storytelling was in their vulnerability. Ironically, this kind of vulnerability is the stalemate for so many people. Steph discusses the misconception that failures and hardships disqualify us from sharing our messages, arguing instead that they enhance our credibility. She shares her journey from being guarded to embracing authenticity, highlighting how this shift has positively impacted her relationships and professional life. The episode concludes with the idea that we might not have to use a proverbial hammer to have big impact, but rather use the hammer to break apart our own guardedness so we can impact people with our humanity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 03:01 The Power of Vulnerability in Storytelling 06:12 Impact Through Authenticity 11:15 Breaking Down Walls for Connection 13:36 Embracing Humanity in Interactions

In this episode, Steph talks about "getting to the root". She discusses the importance of identifying root causes in various aspects of life, like in health, conflict and personal development. Drawing from her background in Chinese medicine, she emphasizes that addressing symptoms without understanding the underlying issues leads to ineffective solutions. You end up "chasing branches" instead of dealing with the main cause. Through relatable examples, she encourages listeners to explore the roots of their challenges to foster genuine transformation and growth. At the end, she gives practical questions to help you start to diagnose the root in various scenarios. Takeaways - Look for root causes, not just symptoms. - Nature teaches us about health and balance. - Understanding the root can alleviate multiple issues. - Stress often leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms. - Communication breakdowns often stem from unmet needs. - Health issues can often be traced back to lifestyle choices. - Negative stories influence our behaviors and perceptions. - Fear of unmet needs drives many of our actions. - Asking the right questions can reveal deeper insights. - Focus on roots to work smarter, not harder. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Root Cause Analysis 00:46 The Importance of Understanding Root Causes 02:45 Applying Root Cause Thinking in Daily Life 04:33 Identifying and Addressing Saboteurs 06:43 Practical Steps to Discovering Roots 07:42 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, Steph discusses the 'novelty phase' that often accompanies new endeavors, highlighting the initial excitement and motivation that can fade after a few months. Have you ever started something you were super excited about, and then about three months in, you seem to lose your motivation? That's the novelty phase. Steph emphasizes the importance of pushing through this phase to achieve lasting transformation and growth. By combining insights with consistent action, individuals can overcome the challenges of maintaining motivation and ultimately reach their goals. Takeaways The novelty phase brings initial excitement and motivation. Dopamine plays a key role in our enjoyment of new experiences. Many people struggle to maintain motivation after three months. Pushing through the novelty phase is crucial for growth. Insight without action leads to stagnation. Long-term commitment often yields the best results. Transformation requires consistent effort over time. Avoid falling into the trap of chasing quick highs. Reflect on your progress to find fulfillment. Commitment to goals is essential for achieving dreams. Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Novelty Phase 02:21 The Impact of the Novelty Phase on Learning 06:04 Pushing Through the Hump 09:07 The Importance of Commitment and Action

In this episode, Steph explores the complexities of giving and helping others, particularly in relationships where the recipient may not be ready or willing to accept help. This topic comes up a lot for people because relationships are nuanced, complex and we are often invested in the outcomes of the people we love! Steph discusses the importance of understanding one's limits in providing support, the necessity of intentional giving without control, and the significance of taking ownership of one's energy in relationships. The conversation centers around the recognition that everyone has their own path to walk, which may include hardship and struggle, and sometimes we have to take our hand out of it and get out of the way. Chapters 00:00 The Challenge of Giving and Helping 05:01 Understanding Boundaries in Relationships 10:39 Navigating Personal Energy and Impact Takeaways How much do you give in relationships? Some people don't want to change or get better. It's important to give without trying to control outcomes. You can only control your own actions and feelings. Helping others should come from a place of true intention. Avoid giving out of obligation or expectation. Recognize that everyone has their own path to walk. You cannot fix or save anyone; it's presumptuous to think so. Take ownership of your energy and what you give. Recharge your own battery to maintain balance.

In this episode, Steph discusses the importance of taking action not just at the start of the year, but throughout the entire year. There is a powerful formula used in coaching: Insight + Action = Transformation. Action is where the rubber meets the road and so many people avoid it. She emphasizes the need to connect with a strong personal 'why' to motivate action, the dangers of waiting for the perfect moment, and the impact of fear and comfort on our ability to take risks. The conversation encourages listeners to shorten the time between insight and action to achieve their goals and avoid regrets. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Year-Round Action 02:49 Understanding the 'Why' Behind Action 05:49 The Pitfalls of Perfectionism and Preparation 08:14 The Cost of Delayed Action 10:13 Overcoming Fear and Comfort Zones 12:52 The Practice of Taking Action 15:31 A Call to Action for Transformation

In this episode, Steph talks about the "crisis of complaining" and how it affects us and the people around us. She references Wayne Dyer's famous quote, "When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." This discussion addresses the pervasive issue of complaining and the three hard truths that go along with it. She emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, ownership, and the story we tell. Steph encourages listeners to take responsibility for their lives and break the cycle of negativity. Takeaways Complaining is a habit that many people fall into. Chronic complaining can be isolating and draining. Self-awareness is crucial in recognizing our own complaints. We often complain about things we can change but choose not to. Acceptance is necessary for things we cannot control. The language we use shapes our life story. Problem energy prevents us from finding solutions. We have the power to change our perspective. Taking ownership leads to empowerment. Breaking the habit of complaining can transform our lives.

In this episode, Steph talks about a famous rule around communication called the 7-38-55 rule. She emphasizes that effective communication goes beyond words, highlighting the significance of tone and body language. The conversation illustrates how much of our communication is nonverbal and how many people aren't intentional about the way they take up space in a room. Steph shares personal anecdotes and insights on how to improve communication skills to enhance influence and connection with others. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Communication 02:06 Understanding the 7-38-55 Rule 08:37 The Role of Tone in Communication 13:03 Body Language and Its Impact 15:00 Mastering Communication for Impact

In this episode, Steph explores the profound impact of the stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our perspectives and emotions. Through the example of a coaching client named John, she illustrates the importance of recognizing and challenging our narratives to foster personal growth and empowerment. It comes down to one insight: "It's all about the story we tell, isn't it?" The discussion emphasizes the ability to choose our perspectives, the significance of self-reflection, and the power of language in shaping our experiences. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Storytelling in Coaching 06:15 Choosing Your Narrative: A Turning Point 08:42 Empowerment Through Self-Reflection

In this episode, Steph discusses the concept of personal bottlenecks, drawing from a coaching client's experience. The conversation explores how individuals often become the obstacles to their own success, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility, effective communication, and taking action. Steph provides practical strategies for overcoming procrastination, creating routines, and maintaining accountability to oneself, ultimately asking the simple question, "What is the bottleneck in my life?" Chapters 00:00 The Bottleneck Revelation 05:29 Identifying Personal Roadblocks 08:45 Strategies to Overcome Bottlenecks

In this episode, Steph reflects on the new year and shares the top 5 tools and ideas from the podcast in 2024 that have helped listeners and clients achieve personal growth and impact. She shares these 5 tactics: 1) the ONE change, 2) radical ownership, 3) problem energy vs. solution energy, 4) choose your story, and 5) energy is everything. We are always out there seeking new tools, but sometimes the real money is in the simplicity of the tools you already have. Happy new year, team. Chapters 00:00 New Beginnings: Embracing 2025 01:39 Reflecting on the Past: Lessons from 2024 04:20 Top Five Tools for Personal Growth 06:50 One Change: The Power of Simplicity 09:58 Radical Ownership: Taking Control of Your Life 12:27 Energy Matters: The Foundation of Success

In this episode, and in honor of the coming new year, Steph discusses the most controversial episode of the last year for the Impact Ready podcast. It was Ep.6 "Stress is a Choice". She breaks down the different reactions people have to this sentiment, "stress is a choice", and talks more about what it means in practice. Steph emphasizes how this idea is about perspective and the story we tell about our life. The result of embracing this idea? More personal freedom, ownership, and fulfillment each day. Episode 6: Stress is a Choice https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/impact-ready/id1747814249?i=1000658021220 Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Impact and Personal Growth 01:51 The Controversy of Stress as a Choice 03:58 New Chapter 04:41 The Power of Perspective and Ownership 07:43 Choosing Attitude in Challenging Circumstances 09:55 Embracing Responsibility and Agency

In this episode, Steph explores the complex relationship between negative and positive thinking, challenging the notion that one must choose between the two. Don't we want to know all sides, all facets, of who we are? We are constantly sifting and sorting through experiences in life. Negative thinking is framed not as a flaw but as a valuable part of the human experience that can lead to self-discovery and empowerment. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their negative thoughts, recognize their role in shaping their narratives, and take ownership of their mental processes to foster a more balanced mindset. By recognizing the value of both perspectives, listeners can learn to navigate their thoughts more effectively, leading to more personal freedom and greater impact. Chapters 00:00 The Dichotomy of Thinking: Positive vs Negative 06:56 Understanding Negative Thinking: A Necessary Perspective 11:57 Embracing the Full Spectrum of Thoughts