Inspired Courage

Join Nicole as she speaks with Caleb Willis about his life and journey working as a school counselor to transitioning into an administration position in education. Listen to his inspiring words, wisdom, and faith as he charts a better narrative in his career and life as a proud, unapologetic Black man in America. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit inspiredcourage.substack.com

In the last episode of season 3, Nicole does a solo session where she speaks from Brene Brown’s new book, Atlas of the Heart. She dives into her personal journey with perfectionism and reads a passage from the book that really centers the wisdom she’s about to throw down. Take a listen. And remember, you’re alway enough - no matter what. XOXO This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit inspiredcourage.substack.com

As we wrap the end of the year, Nicole and I have been thinking about what we could bring to you in 2022. In this episode, Nicole introduced the topic of play and how we can cultivate a play practice in our lives as well as how it shows up even in natural and intuitive ways throughout our daily lives. Listen to how you can adopt a play practice and reclaim your inner child. Going into 2022, you’ll hear a bit more one-on-one episodes with us and the themes of life we witness in daily conversations, what stories are inspiring us and what courageous acts empower us to keep moving forward. Thank you for all the love you’ve shown us these last 3 seasons and cheers to an updated era of Inspired Courage. Stay tuned dear friends!Much love and Happy New Year, Marko and Nicole This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit inspiredcourage.substack.com

In this month's mini episode, Marko introduces his new newsletter, It's Okay. He reads you his first letter and talks about the themes of a life that just keeps changing, setting a good foundation and leaving you with wisdom going into your last month of 2021. XO

In this month's episode, Marko and Nicole connect with Alexandra and Tierney from Embolden Mama - a community created to connect mamas through real life stories, connection, fitness classes, and wellness seminars. Listen for some insights and stories on why they got started and how motherhood is transforming (for the good) in the new generation. Follow Embolden Mama on IG: @embolden_mama Follow Inspired Courage on IG: @inspiredcouragepod Hosts social: @nicolepiercerisvold @markotheinspired

This month Marko and Nicole finally have a chance to sit down in-person and have a conversation! In this episode, they tackle the topic of toxic productivity culture. Tune in to listen to their perspectives and stories about how they see this showing up in life and gain some tips and tricks to tackle the need to "do" all the time. You've got this! We are all in this together.

This month, Nicole sits down with Jenna aka “The Anxious Hobbyist.” Jenna walks us through her journey with postpartum anxiety and depression. She encourages us to do what we need, and to put ourselves first. She shows how being open and vulnerable with our struggles opens the doors for others to share their journeys and normalizes mental health challenges and the idea that healing and coping is possible.

This month's episode we connect with Nicole's childhood friend, Kyle. Throughout this episode, Kyle courageously walks us through his journey as a trans man and becoming his truest self. He also gives us insights on trans awareness and opening our arms and hearts to accepting people for who they are. Grab a box of tissues and keep an open heart. Happy Pride month, folks! #translivesmatter

In this episode, Marko and Nicole chat with Emily Ritcher of the Fit Foodie Finds trio. Throughout this time together, they talk about Emily's recent healthy pregnancy and her experience with loss before this rainbow. They dive through the grief jungle and what it means to have both/and experiences.   We are happy to announce Emily and her husband have recently welcomed healthy baby, Bode, into the world.

In this episode, Marko and Nicole welcome Dieu Do to the Inspired Courage podcast. Dieu shares her experience as a civically involved individual and her work as a racial and social justice activist in the wake of George Floyd's murder. She walks us through her journey and gives us an informed view of "doing the work" in shaping the  world to be a place where there is justice for all.

In this episode, Nicole takes a solo interview with Ella Waite a local Minneapolis, MN Yoga Teacher and Maternal Wellness Coach. They chat about Ella's journey as a mother and her impactful work with Ella Frances Yoga around serving mothers, especially during this pandemic.

Nicole Pierce Risvold wraps 2020 and why we don't have to hate it. She inspires us to reflect on the both/ands of this year and how we move forward into 2021.

In the midst of social distancing and quarantining, Nicole and Marko embark on the topic of conflict. Listen to this episode to learn how they see it showing up in their lives, how they get through, and what is brings them back to sanity. This real talk helps us all find sameness in what seems like an endless time spent at home.

In this episode, Nicole goes solo to interview Ashely Sondergaard of the Yoga Magic podcast and Ashley Sondergaard Yoga. They tackle topics ranging from wellness rituals, routines, and the courage to chase self-care when the whole world seems to be hustling. Dive in to learn more about Ashley's brand and her tried and true rituals that keep her centered during this unprecendented time.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Marko and Nicole have continued to connect with people and their stories. In this episode, Marko and Nicole interview Jenna Howenstein and Ashley Reichow about their similar stories about losing their mothers to cancer at a young age. Jenna and Ashley walk us through their journeys and how they found friendship through loss. Grief isn't linear whatsoever, but the way we connect can ease the pain and help navigate life with loss.

In the midst of quarantining during the COVID-19 pandemic, Marko and Nicole continued to record inspiring stories. This episode captures Brenna Lightfoot's journey toward wellness while living with an eating disorder. Her story creates space and shares a voice for people living with an eating disorder and disordered eating habits--that no one is alone. Know, your body is beautiful, it is powerful and worthy to take up space in this world. We hope you find courage in Brenna's story. xoxo

We are kicking off season 2 (seriously!!) in honor of Black History Month. A more defined goal for the Inspired Courage duo (Marko + Nicole) is to bring voices from all different backgrounds--all in the name of equality and equity. In this episode, Nicole and Marko interview a panel of black school counselors from Minnesota School Counselors of Color. They dive into topics around representation, micro-aggressions, and code-switching in their journeys' of working in Minnesota's education system. Join Marko and Nicole as they chat with Arnise, Derek, and Caleb about showing up and doing the work is just the start of a larger race equity conversation.

In this mini segment, Nicole Pierce Risvold touches on the topic of "things don't always work out." Whether with events, with passion projects, friends, plans, life, etc., this is real life and it's just a part of the journey! Nicole and Marko are taking this mantra into 2020 and will continue to shape and grow the Inspired Courage Podcast to be a place to hold space and tell stories. Stay tuned. Season 2 is coming!

When you walk down the street, you see so many different people. Some who seem to wear their stories on the outside and others who look put together--maybe even perfect. That's the era we are in; where stories are underneath the surface--waiting to be told. This episode embarks on the recovery journey of Thomas (Tom) Sugatt. Marko Dewhurst dives deep into Tom's story through addiction to his glowingly present self. You will meet Tom on his road to Minnesota and the pivotal moments that ignited his treatment, his shifts in perspective around sobriety and how it's different for everyone. Marko and Tom bond over their love for yoga and what flawed stories make them who they are--it may even mean we are "recovering from ourselves." In the era of an opioid epidemic, listen to change your perspective on addiction and the road to active recovery. You won't regret this one, friends.   Follow @inspiredcouragepod on Instagram and Facebook to keep up-to-date on current episodes and events! Visit www.inspiredcourage.co to learn more.

In this month's episode, Marko and Nicole interview Adrienne VanZomeren about her courageous story. They embark on learning about the journey that shaped her to who she is today and what she has learned from past trauma that lead her to getting her Ph.D. Here's a little more about her: Adrienne grew up in Detroit, MI where she liked to make her family dog gourmet meals of mud pies and collected worms to take on bike rides. She cared a lot about school and sports, which inspired her to become a college athlete and to decide to go to graduate school. She moved to the Twin Cities in 2011 to begin a Ph.D. program in child clinical psychology, and then moved to Boston, MA in 2016 to complete her doctoral training at Harvard Medical School/Boston Children’s Hospital. She currently resides in the Twin Cities where she teaches yoga, evaluates depressed teens, and hangs out with her 13-year-old German Shepherd, Luke.

In this episode, Nicole Pierce Risvold tackles the every evolving and generational topic of #selfcare with our amazing producer Kristin Mastantuono! They talk about how self care is individualized and necessary for wellbeing and holding space for yourself. It doesn't have to be a bougie experience or be expensive (unless that's your jam!) Nicole and Kristin dig deep about the importance of reveling in quiet moments and always prioritizing your own needs. Listen. Find what resonates with you and listen to their insights and other's perspectives on this very personal practice!

In this body talkin' episode, Marko Dewhurst and Nicole Pierce Risvold breakdown all the things to do with body image—not in the Instagram #gymbod type way, but in the realest way they know #realtalk. This duo tells you some stories and dialogue they have heard over the years and, most importantly, the stories they've told themselves. On their journeys to actively love the skin their in, they share their hopes and dreams for the #bodypoz movements and what they hope to see in popular culture. Give yourself some love ya'll. So strong. So beautiful. Just as you are!! xoxo

In this special episode, Marko Dewhurst shares the interview with guest host + longtime friend, Ann Muhvich. They dive into a conversation with local musician + Jill-of-all-Trades, Rhaelee Gronholz about the meaning of LGBTQIA+ Pride. Marko, Ann, and Rhaelee embark on topics from the definitions of sexuality, coming out, the sameness in people, and the importance of understanding. About Rhaelee: Bringing the heart and soul back to modern pop music, Rhaelee Gronholz is the newest woman you will want in your playlist. Redefining the status quo of pop, funk and jazz as she eloquently weaves elements of sassy bass lines and powerhouse vocals into her latest single “Pretty Things”. Based in Minneapolis, Rhaelee brings a confidence to each show she has, and every show she works. Notably a “Jill of All Trades”, Rhaelee’s work in the industry spans beyond just performing, and bleeds into making the music happen - both in the studio and live sound. Sophisticated in her sound, and confident in her personality, Rhaelee makes it impossible for you to keep your finger off the repeat button.

In this episode, Nicole interviews Marko about the "why?" behind his recent TEDx Talk! They dive deep into what the difference is to be healed versus healing, talk about how trendy self-care rituals don't need to be expensive, and Marko gives you a glimpse into his story and perspective on his healing journey. Think about it: we all wear backpacks. References made: Brene Brown's books Rising Strong and Dare to Lead. Follow Nicole + Marko on Instagram and Facebook at @inspiredcouragepod and online at inspiredcourage.co. You can find Marko's TEDx Talk: Healed or Healing? Finding Your "New Normal" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qbJxdk39ak.

In this episode, Marko and Nicole introduce Nicole's dear friend, Tiffany Clarno. Tiffany walks us through the journey of her verbally abusive relationship while healing from a non-malignant brain tumor. She explains her journey to healing and finding the ultimate love for herself. Follow her story. Get ready to laugh and maybe even tear up!

In this first episode, EVER, you meet the hosts of the Inspired Courage Podcast, Marko Dewhurst and Nicole Pierce Risvold. You learn the why behind Inspired Courage, what to expect, and what it means to take up space! That's the point, they are holding it for people. Embark on this journey with these two wildly courageous humans and get ready to laugh, cry, scream this season!