Phoenix and Flame Podcast

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, fitness coach and entrepreneur Petar Krastev shares how he went from arriving in the UK with just 10 Euros in his pocket to building a life grounded in faith, fitness, and entrepreneurship. He opens up about facing homelessness, toxic relationships, and the challenges of supporting a child in his early years—yet still finding the drive to keep moving forward. Petar explains how maintaining a fitness routine gave him strength when everything else was falling apart, and how his faith completely shifted his path, opening unexpected doors in both life and business.  Petar's Linkedin Petar's Website

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs welcomes happiness coach and co-founder of Limitless You, Yvonne Trost. Together, they explore the powerful journey of personal transformation. Yvonne shares her own inspiring story of overcoming significant life challenges including a devastating apartment fire, a difficult marriage, and a career change before learning to be herself again. She introduces a transformative three-step framework, emphasizing the crucial role of self-compassion and curiosity in breaking free from limiting beliefs and fears. The discussion continues into the science of neuroplasticity, the power of the imagination, and the importance of shifting from negative "what if" thinking to a more empowering "why not" approach. Lastly, Yvonne provides listeners with practical tools and resources for self-discovery, offering a clear path to unlock their limitless potential and create a more fulfilling life. Yvonne's Linkedin Yvonne's Website  

Victoria Pelletier is a highly accomplished corporate executive, board director, and author known as the "Turnaround Queen." She shares her remarkable journey of resilience, rising from a challenging childhood to achieving executive leadership roles by the age of 24 through sheer grit and determination. Along the way, she faced obstacles such as imposter syndrome and navigating bias as a queer woman in corporate environments. Victoria emphasizes the importance of DEI in the workplace and highlights the benefits of creating inclusive environments for all employees. She also offers practical advice on setting boundaries both personally and professionally and finding fulfillment beyond career success. Victoria's Books  Victoria's LinkedIn

Robert Hunt, also known as “The Accountability Guy,” is the co-author of Nobody Cares Until You Do. In this episode, Robert opens up about his journey—how he dug himself out of deep debt and a victim mindset by leaning into personal accountability. He breaks down the difference between just being responsible and actually owning your actions and outcomes. Along the way, he calls out some common traps we all fall into like blaming others, making excuses, saying “I can't,” or just waiting around for things to change. Robert emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, even asking tough questions like, “Am I the common denominator in these conflicts?” He also talks about overcoming shame by separating your self-worth from your performance in work, relationships, or other roles.  Robert's Book Robert's Linkedin  

Winnie Rodgers, a real estate expert and marketing strategist, shares her journey of transformation and resilience. She discusses the importance of listening to one's intuition, navigating personal and professional boundaries, and empowering women in sales and entrepreneurship. Winnie shares her experiences in the real estate industry, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and the significance of morning rituals for grounding oneself. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-discovery and the power of community support among women. Winnie's website Winnie's Instagram profile  

In this enlightening conversation, Mette Reebirk, an author and executive coach, shares her journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. Mette emphasizes the importance of questioning our thoughts and narratives, understanding the connection between thoughts and emotions, and the power of self-reflection. She discusses the impact of leadership on personal well-being, the necessity of empathy in relationships, and the challenges of embracing diversity. Mette advocates for mindfulness and living in the moment, encouraging listeners to capture their thoughts and emotions while fostering curiosity and connection with others. Mette's Linked In page

In this solo episode, Dana Skaggs explores the complexities of setting and defending personal boundaries. She discusses the importance of understanding one's own emotional landscape, the fear of rejection, and the impact of past wounds on current behavior. Dana emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the role of support systems in navigating these challenges. Dana's Linked In Page Dana's website

Marni Battista, an entrepreneur, author, and transformational coach, shares her journey of rebuilding her life and finding meaning after experiencing hardships. She emphasizes the importance of creating a life that aligns with one's values and desires. Marni also discusses the challenges of dating and the need for self-love and self-worth in the dating process. She provides insights on overcoming comparison despair and finding clarity in one's financial situation. Marni's approach focuses on inner growth and empowerment to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. Marni's website Another route to Marni's website Marni's book: How to Find a Quality Guy: Without Going on 200 Dates Marni's book: Becoming Irresistible: How to Effortlessly Have Men Pursue You, Treat You Like a Goddess, and Commit to You for Life Marni's LATEST book! Your Radical Living Challenge

H. Jackson Calame, a visionary entrepreneur, shares his journey of overcoming challenges and setting boundaries to pursue his passion. He discusses the importance of finding purpose and belonging, as well as the power of saying no.  Jackson emphasizes the need to treat others with respect and care, especially in the business world. He also highlights the value of perseverance and transformation in the face of adversity. Jackson Calame discusses the challenges and doubts that entrepreneurs face on their journey. Dana and Jackson share personal stories of dealing with external and internal voices of doubt and criticism. They emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and self-love in overcoming these challenges and staying true to one's vision. They also discuss the value of building authentic relationships and connections in business.  https://visionproslive.com

Sarah Jantausch shares her journey of being a high-performing perfectionist and experiencing burnout. She started her career in government and quickly climbed the ladder, always thinking the next promotion would make her happy. However, she realized that she was designing her entire life and career around the value of achievement, which led to burnout. Sarah emphasizes the importance of values alignment and how feeling stressed, burned out, or stuck can be signs of a mismatch. She suggests identifying core values, seeking outside perspectives, and running experiments to explore new career paths. Setting boundaries and reframing the stories others have for us are also crucial in making a career change. Sarah's website

  Amita Sharma, co-founder of NourishDoc, shares her personal struggles as a perimenopausal woman in the corporate world and how she is using her experience to help other women. She discusses the lack of awareness and support for women going through perimenopause in the workplace and the need for a holistic approach to wellness. Amita emphasizes the importance of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, movement, and mental health in managing perimenopausal symptoms. She also highlights the need for better education and support from the medical community. NourishDoc is a holistic wellness platform that provides bite-sized information, community support, and access to experts to help women navigate perimenopause and beyond. Amita's website

Susan Winchester, former chief HR officer, discusses how the workplace can be a laboratory for emotional healing and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing how our childhood experiences shape our behavior and relationships in the workplace. Susan shares her own journey of healing and provides practical strategies for managing workplace conflict and setting boundaries. She introduces the concept of 'bumper car moments' as opportunities for growth and transformation. Susan's work aims to help individuals unlock their potential and create healthier, more fulfilling work experiences. Susan's book! www.healingatwork.com Susan's facebook page Susan's Linked In page Susan's Instagram page

Carolyn Swora, a leadership consultant and certified "Dare to Lead" facilitator, shares her journey into trauma-informed leadership. She discusses the importance of understanding the nervous system and how it impacts our ability to be vulnerable and present in the workplace. Carolyn emphasizes the need to recognize and address emotional wounds and develop a compassionate relationship with our bodies. She encourages listeners to tune into their bodies and listen to the cues and sensations that indicate something is off. By doing so, we can create more capacity to navigate the complexities of our workplaces and lead with authenticity and resilience. Carolyn's website

Dr. Stephan Neff, a doctor and former patient, shares his personal experiences with trauma, addiction, and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of addressing past traumas and core beliefs that to addictive behaviors. Dr. Neff discusses the role of substances as coping mechanisms and the need to find healthier ways to deal with emotions. He highlights the power of fear inoculation and the ability to come back stronger after facing and processing fear. Dr. Neff provides resources for listeners to learn more about functional medicine and his book, 'My Steps to Sobriety.' Dr. Stephan Neff's website

Kim Mosiman, a nutritionist and author, shares her journey of reclaiming her health and discusses the importance of self-love and body responsibility. She emphasizes the need to prioritize our health and make intentional choices, even in the midst of a busy life. Kim encourages women to let go of expectations and focus on becoming who they want to be in their second act. She also highlights the significance of communication and setting boundaries in relationships. Overall, Kim's message promotes self-acceptance, mindfulness, and making positive changes for a healthier and happier life. Kim's website Kim's book "Reflections of Joy"  

Shelly Starks, CEO of Inline Consulting Services, shares her journey of personal and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of understanding behavioral styles and setting boundaries. She discusses the challenges she faced, including a difficult divorce, her daughter's medical issues, and her own health struggles. Shelly highlights the significance of embracing the journey, facing and feeling the pain, and using it as a tool for personal transformation. Shelly's website  

JJ Flizanes is an empowerment strategist who helps people remove emotional blocks to success and create a personalized roadmap to emotional healing. She believes in activating new parts of the brain and opening up both the emotional and logical sides to create balance and empowerment. JJ emphasizes the importance of moving away from victim mentality and taking responsibility for one's own healing and growth. JJ's Feelings list JJ's book JJ's book

Emanuel Rose, a seasoned marketing expert, shares his journey from personal struggles to professional success, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and nature in his life. He provides practical tips for setting boundaries and accessing creativity, highlighting the impact of digital culture on mental health. Emanuel's website  

Seth Gehle shares his story of surviving childhood trauma, including abuse and molestation. He discusses the impact of his mother's addiction and abusive behavior, as well as the grooming and abuse he experienced from a man he trusted. Seth bravely reported his abuser, leading to his arrest and conviction. He highlights the importance of sharing stories and seeking healing, and emphasizes that everyone's story is valid and deserving of attention. Seth is now a combat veteran, author, and motivational speaker, dedicated to helping others heal and find strength beyond their shadows. https://sethgehle.com  

Jill Sitnick, an award-winning strategic thinker and educator, shares her journey of healing childhood trauma-induced PTSD with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. She discusses her experiences growing up in an abusive and unstable environment, the isolation and impending doom she felt as a result of her trauma, and the physical manifestations of trauma in the body.   https://thejourneysage.com

Darlene Greene shares her experience of caring for her husband with early Alzheimer's disease. Darlene discusses her previous relationships with narcissists and the impact it had on her health. She also talks about her husband's decline and the various treatments they tried. Darlene then introduces a technology that activated her own stem cells and improved her health. The conversation addresses skepticism and explains why the technology is not widely known. In this conversation, Darlene Greene discusses the power of stem cells and the potential for healing and rejuvenation. Darlene's website  

Andrea Johnson, an executive and founder empowerment coach, shares her journey of overcoming obesity, bulimia, and depression through gastric bypass surgery and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself and developing a strong sense of identity and purpose. Andrea also discusses the significance of cultural diversity and the need for acceptance and understanding in relationships. She introduces her concept of intentional optimism, which involves embodying attitudes and mindsets such as hope, presence, generosity, kindness, and resilience Andrea's website

Julie Rose, a radio journalist and host of the podcast Top of Mind, shares her journey of news avoidance and the need for bridging divides in public discourse. She discusses the challenges of engaging in conversations without them turning negative and explores the power of curiosity in fostering productive discussions. Julie emphasizes the importance of deepening relationships and learning from others, rather than focusing on winning arguments or correcting misinformation. She provides tips for approaching conversations with curiosity, active listening, and humility. In this conversation, Julie Rose and Dana Skaggs discuss the importance of listening and engaging in uncomfortable conversations. They emphasize the need to ask open-ended questions and genuinely seek to understand others' perspectives. Julie shares a personal experience of engaging in a conversation with a friend who held different political views, highlighting the power of empathy and curiosity. They discuss the transformative potential of these conversations in building relationships and deepening understanding. Julie also introduces her podcasts, 'Top of Mind with Julie Rose' and 'Uncomfy,' which explore challenging topics and provide practical guidance for engaging in uncomfortable conversations. Julie's IG account Julie's facebook account Julie's Linked In account

Have you been exploited or taken advantage of so many times you don't know where you stop and someone else begins?  Listen to Birgitta Visser's eclectic life journey and how she was finally able to step into her power and set boundaries. https://www.powersoulhealing.com https://a.co/d/9M7MGP5

How is it that women do so much for so many and yet struggle to find their worth?  It should be so easy and yet we alway seem to feel as if we're not enough.  Not kind enough....not thin enough...not disciplined enough...Listen as January Donovan lays out a map to self-worth! January's website! January's book: Redefine Success for Women Women's Fulfillment Workbook by January Donovan January's book: This Is The Me I Choose To Be

Win Charles describes her traumatic journey of being born with cerebral palsy, her mother's death, her father's death, experiencing abuse from family members, then rising to compete in an IronMan Triathlon and provide motivational presentations. Win's website Win's book

Do you have skepticism regarding religion or spirituality?  Have you ever wanted to believe but didn't want to be fooled by exaggerations and misdirection?  Listen to Rev. Dr. David Chotka's life journey from decorating Christmas trees at the strip club to becoming a pastor.   www.spiritequip.com  

Have you ever wondered how some people are able to break loose from generations of family patterns and abuse?  Are you feeling discouraged by those around you and doubt your own potential?  Listen to Dr. Cindy Starke's phenomenal journey of intrepid persistence straight through multiple failures, refusing to give up.  Education was her ticket to safety and she didn't stop until she has a PhD in molecular genetics and was an internal medicine physician. https://drcindystarke.com Dr. Cindy Starke's book

Do you feel victimized by your own anger or perfectionistic expectations?  Would you like a practical way to feel peace and gratitude?  Listen as Ann Swanson explains mindfulness practices of meditation and how to send messages of "May you be safe; may you be healthy; may you be happy" to yourself and others. https://meditationForTheRealWorld.com Ann's book!

Have you ever been in a relationship with a narcissist?  It is quite the experience!  Do you wonder if you are but aren't sure because of all the gaslighting?  Are you second-guessing yourself a lot and blaming yourself for issues they created?  Then you definitely want to listen as Nikki LaCroce describes her journey with a wonderfully open, transparent delivery. Nikki's podcast Nikki's IG

Are you a parent living in fear of "messing up" your child?  Do all the "shoulds" have you in a stranglehold?  Listen as pediatrician, Dr. Alison Escalante, describes her prescription for the ShouldStorm. https://sighseestart.com Dr. Escalante's book

Are you keenly aware of others' moods?  Do you struggle to validate your own thoughts and feelings due to threatened rejection and abandonment by others?  Have you been told what is acceptable behavior and try your best to please those around you?  Listen as Amanda Kate discusses her trauma, resiliency, managing the 5 F's and learning the value of Self-Mastery. https://amandakate.com.au

How does a 30 yr-old become an entrepreneurial success?  Listen as Eric McHugh, president of SHOPX web3 ecommerce, describes his persistent habits of setting boundaries, prioritizing peace, and training his thought life.   https://shopx.co https://dataing.io https://www.instagram.com/ericdmchugh/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdouglasmchugh/ https://twitter.com/ericmchugh0

Do you feel tethered to childhood dysfunctional dynamics?  Would you like to know who you are without all that baggage?  Listen as Lolita Guarin explains how she finally found herself and set liberating boundaries so she could strengthen and grow. https://beamazingyou.com Lolita's book on Stress Management for ACOA Lolita's book on work stress

Is your life script in desperate need of a rewrite?  Are you frustrated and irritated with all your life's narratives that seem to keep you in bondage?  LIsten as Deanna Moffitt explains how liberation, peace, and strength can be yours by challenging your life "stories."   https://deannamoffitt.com

Do you view your diagnoses as disabilities?  Learn how to experience your unique qualities as assets designed to help you thrive!  Katherine McCord discusses how neurodiversities should be not only accepted but embraced!   https://kmccordspeaking.com https://jointheneuroverse.org  

Nico Lagan shares his transformational journey from being an addict and drug dealer to living a life of faith while being a fearless champion of strong men.  He addresses toxic masculinity and what traits make a "good" man and why. https://nicolagan.com  

Are you frustrated by trying to live your life as defined by others?  Have you ever been pushed to the point of suicide or felt totally adrift in the pain of grief?  Listen to Portia Booker's story of navigating a toxic work environment followed by her mother's death and how she found grace in her grief.   https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1665929514723s https://www.instagram.com/portiathegriefgrantor/ https://www.facebook.com/pbookali https://www.linkedin.com/in/portiabooker/

Do you struggle with people-pleasing?  Is it hard for you to say "No?"  Listen to Jennifer Schwytzer's story of using boundaries to reduce stress, honor her own opinions, and extend kindness to herself. https://kindfulnesscoaching.com  

Do you feel stuck, discouraged, or hopeless?  Listen to Steve Gamlin's experience of losing his job, relationship, home, and financial stability.  Find out why his phoenix rides a pogo stick and how he found inspiration and motivation to rise from the ashes. https://www.SteveGamlin.com  

Have you experienced trauma and feel there is no way out?  Listen as Marshall Zweig, a survivor of sexual, emotional, and psychological traumas, speaks about his transformational journey through manipulation and gaslighting to forgiveness and love.     https://marshallzweig.com

Do you simultaneously love and hate your body?  Have you lost the directions to the Land of Body Positivity?  Listen as Rachel Lavin talks about her 3 Pillars of Fitness:  Nourishment, Movement, and Rest. https://rachellavinwellness.com https://a.co/d/81OfR6t

Dai Manuel shares his journey from obesity and alcohol use struggles to finding resiliency and transformation with his five F's:  Fitness, Faith, Family, Finances, and Fun.   https://www.facebook.com/CoachDaiManuel/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/daimanuel/ https://www.instagram.com/daimanuel/

Falyn Morningstar connects the dots between sexual trauma, emotional shut-down, insomnia, fatigue, hair loss, and more!  Learn how to shift from disconnection and self-loathing to power and vitality. https://calendly.com/power-fal/30min discover@falynmorningstar.com  

Are you frustrated with your life and wish you could be more successful?  Listen as Lori Saitz describes rising above stress, practicing gratitude, and centering via meditation can elevate your vibration frequency and magnetize success!   https://zenrabbit.com

Were you ever labeled "stupid" or "slow?"  Do you know someone who struggled to keep up in school and was subsequently ostracized and called demeaning names?  Listen to Lois Letchford's champion journey of helping her son transform from "the worst child ever" to achieving a doctorate! https://loisletchford.com

Do you feel beaten down, hopeless, or lost?  Rebecca Whitman shares her 7 Pillars of Abundance which may help you shift your mindset, make stronger choices, and step into your own power!   https://www.rebeccaelizabethwhitman.com https://linktr.ee/rebeccawhitman  

Blair was fired from a 25-year job after whistleblowing against an abusive situation.  After losing his job, income, and identity in one fell swoop, he relied on yoga and meditation to restore his peace, strength, and hope.   https://hicmeditation.com  

Susan's journey begins with a toxic family environment and traverses through alcohol abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, and codependency before culminating in her resilient triumph of finally standing in her own victory and value.     https://susangold.us

After Adam Lucero was brutally stabbed in a movie theatre he was reduced to the cognitive level of a four year-old.  This is his story of a resilient rise from the ashes and refusal to become a victim. https://superhumanceo.com

Have you ever thought you weren't going to make it, that you didn't have it in you anymore?  Have you been beaten down by life and your own choices?  Listen to Dave Albin's honest, transparent, and genuine account of how he went from planning his own death to going on a Tony Robbins' firewalk then being promoted to Firewalk Captain and helping others face their fears for 20 years.   https://firewalkadventures.com