The Not So Perfect Plan

In early 2020 the Vargas family decided to make this year, the most exciting year yet. They referred to it as a "once in a lifetime travel year."  They had big and small trips planned, fun experiences for each kid on the calendar, and the count down was on.  Then, in what felt like a blink of an eye, their year was canceled.  In today's episode, Kim shares how they have turned 2020 around and made it a year full of memories and adventure for their family in the midst of chaos.  Share this episode with a family that feels like their 2020 plan is not going so perfectly.   LINKS: thenotsoperfectplan.com The video that sucked me in: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5PJFUMiEZA Walker Family Goods https://walkergoods.com   QUICK EPISODE SUMMARY 0:02 What to expect today 2:40 When the world felt canceled 5:40 The quote Kim has lived by 6:38 How did you handle this first part of the year? 7:39 What have you done to thrive? 9:43 The year of adventure 14:37 What is your new plan?  

If you were to take a time-machine back to the early 2000s, you would find the newly married Vargas family living in a small town, barely making 18,000 a year.  Fast forward to today and Pete and Kim are proud to say they are first-generation millionaires.  How did they do it? On today's podcast, Pete and Kim share the practical steps they took to start generating more income so they could leave a legacy and start making an impact through generosity.  LINKS Read the blog: thenotsoperfectplan.com   QUICK EPISODE SUMMARY: 0:19 What to expect today 2:08 Conversation starts 5:06 The hope for this episode 10:11 Setting the right goals 18:00 When Pete and Kim started their side hustle 23:39 Finding your superpower 27:21 The importance of finding a mentor 33:47 Who is your guide when it comes to money? 45:44 The real impact of money  

In this episode, Pete Vargas interviews wealth and mindset expert Chris Hogan. Chris is a two-time #1 national bestselling author, financial expert, and host of The Chris Hogan Show. Since 2005, Chris has served at Ramsey Solutions, giving practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth    During this powerful conversation, you will learn how to start using money as a tool to build the life and businesses in your heart. Chris will breakdown debt, budging, creating a legacy every unhealthy mindset you have regarding money, and building wealth, and more!   LINKS: www.daveramsey.com/chris-hogan facebook.com/chrishogan360 chrishogan360.com Everyday Millionaires Book  Retire Inspired Its Financial   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 4:11 Welcome Chris 4:28 How to transform your money mindset 6:10 Opportunities are still available 10:00 Control the controllable 16:45 Don't let stuff have you 21:55 End the cycle 29:00 What you can learn from the biggest millionaires 33:49 Advice for W2 employees that want to be entrepreneurs 36:20 What Chris is doing today 37:30 Pete's biggest takeaways

On today's podcast, Kim and Pete welcome certified Nutrition and health specialist, speaker, and New York Times Bestselling author, JJ Virgin. While writing her first book, JJ got the terrifying news that her oldest son had been hit by a car while walking in the neighborhood. When arriving at the hospital, the Doctors told her that her son had a 0.2% chance of recovering and making it through the required surgeries.  The Virgin family took those odds and pursued health and wholeness for their son.  This experience for JJ holds many lessons for all of us. Lessons on resilience, the power of your mindset, and how to stay focus on your goals when your plan isn't going so perfect.     LINKS: Read the blog:  thenotsoperfectplan.com JJ's Book Warrior Mom   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 3:14 Welcome JJ 4:16 Why vision is important 7:08 JJ's plan 8:30 When JJ's son was hit by a car 20:00 The joy of helping others 21:59 How to protect your mind in crisis 27:57 What happens when people come out of a coma 33:55 JJ's book launch 39:04 How to achieve two goals at ones 43:55 JJ's advice for parents 48:48 Pete and Kims biggest takeaways

"The goal is not to live forever, it is to create something that will." Pete Vargas In today's podcast, Pete Vargas takes you on a tour of the first home he and Kim bought. This house holds not only memories of the Vargas family and the genesis of their business, Advance Your Reach. It contains five key lessons we all can learn from as we pursue our plans.   LINKS:  Read the full blog here: thenotsoperfectplan.com   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 0:20 Why Pete is riding solo today 1:41 Why Pete and Kim became renters 3:31 Life is about creating a legacy 6:52 Take a tour with us 7:49 Pete's request for you 9:54 What is scaring you? 10:48 What excuses are you making 12:30 Going against the norm 14:04 What are you investing in? 15:15 You are the greatest assets 18:35 What resonated with you the most? 22:15 What The Not So Perfect Plan is all about

"The Enneagram does not put you in a box. It shows you the box you're already in and how to get out of it." - Ian Morgan Cron In today's episode, Pete and Kim invite you into part two of a conversation with Ian Morgan Cron. He is a champion of the Enneagram, the awakener of people, and bestselling author of the popular Enneagram book, The Road Back to You.  This conversation, we go behind the scenes with Ian to get some of your biggest Enneagram questions answered.    LINKS: Ianmorgancron.com Ians Podcast Buy the book Sleeping at Last Podcast   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:19 Welcome to part two! 0:57 Advice for Pete and Kim specifically 4:46 When Children should take the test 6:07 The difference between the Enneagram and the strength finders test 8:23 What do to when you feel like you are multiple numbers 12:21 Do your own work first 14:20 Understanding the “wing” concept 16:49 Knowing your sub-style 17:58 Why Ian loves ones 22:44 How to communicate with all of the numbers 33:37 Final thoughts  

"The Enneagram does not put you in a box. It shows you the box you're already in and how to get out of it." - Ian Morgan Cron In today's episode, Pete and Kim invite you into a conversation with Ian Morgan Cron. He is a champion of the Enneagram, the awakener of people, and bestselling author of the popular Enneagram book, The Road Back to You.  This conversation will leave you empowered to learn more about yourself, those you love, and will inspire you to create more intimate connections.  Don't miss part two on the next episode!   LINKS: ianmorgancron.com Ians Podcast Buy the book Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 1:16 Why the enneagram is powerful 6:22 The big promise for today 8:17 Why Kim is excited about this episode 9:05 Why Pete resisted the Enneagram 10:07 The backstory for today 18:28 Welcome Ian 19:04 How the enneagram impacted Ians marriage 22:43 The best place to start with the enneagram 25:13 The unconscious motivation for all the numbers 37:33 The importance of being more self-aware 41:18 Where to start 45:52 The number one thing Ian hears 55:15 Encouragement to those who are struggling in a relationship 1:00:00 Finial thoughts  

When COVID-19 took the world by storm, families started sheltering in place and social distancing to keep their families safe. While it's an uncomfortable change, there's a strange sense of relief knowing that everyone else is in the same situation. But what if you were the only family that had to isolate? What if you were the only ones who had to cancel birthday parties, family gatherings, and think twice before visiting the grocery store.  In early 2017, the Burgeson family found themselves in this scenario after their oldest daughter underwent a bone marrow transplant from their youngest daughter. In this interview, Kim Vargas interviews Lex Burgeson about her family's incredible journey with self-isolation, because of this life-threatening disease has lead to deeper connections and richer relationships and a life full of hope.   LINKS:  Read the full blog here: thenotsoperfectplan.com   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 1:36 Lex's plan parenting 2:39 When Lex found out her daughter was sick 7:19 How Ava is processing her illness 19:00 How life looked after the proceeder 22:02 Living a life of isolation 25:14 When the Burgeson felt safe to go out again 27::14 How COVID-19 affected the Burgesons 32:20 How the super hero sisters are doing today 38:08 How having an ill child impacted Lex's marriage 45:47 Lex's encouragement to you

In our culture, it can be easy to link what we do with who we are. In today's episode, Pete and Kim Vargas interview ex-Texas Tech quarterback, founder of the 806 Gathering and dear friend for 30 years, Cody Hudges. Growing up in a small town, playing sports was everything to Cody. Being a natural at almost everything he played, he quickly became the home town hero.  But being the hometown hero comes with the weight of other's expectations for your life.  In this conversation, you will hear Cody's life journey, and an honest dialog about finding your identity and purpose is beyond the things that you do.    LINKS:  Read the full blog here: thenotsoperfectplan.com   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What to expect today 2:19 Why Kim is excited about today's episode 3:35 Welcome Cody 5:18 Cody's dream growing up 16:31 When Cody got recruited for college 21:24 When Cody got injured and how he handled it 27:57 What Cody learned from ”riding the bench” 31:12 Cody's last game 36:20 You have the power to be hopeful 40:00 The result of lessons learned 42:54 Cody's fresh start 50:42 Be present where you are 52:07 Cody's advice for parents 57:15 Cody's advice to those living someone else's dream for them 58:26 Who you need to surround yourself with 1:03 Pete and Kim's biggest takeaways

A good life and a good marriage isn't something you find, it is something that you make.  In the episode, Pete and Kim interview The founders of Family Brand, Chris and Melissa Smith Chris and Melissa share the story of how their plan started to go off track after the birth of their second child and they found themselves on the verge of divorce. Fast forward to today, Chris and Melissa are on a mission to help families discover how to intentional culture in their home that leads to greater love, joy, and connection while reducing stress and overwhelm.  In this interview, you will hear their processes of overcoming the odds along with practical wisdom and advice on how to build your legacy and create your dream life.     LINKS:  Read the full blog: thenotsoperfectplan.com thecampfireeffect.com familybrand.com Family Brand on Facebook Family Brand on Instagram   Quick Episode Summary: 0:19 Welcome, the Smith's! 2:02 Get to know the Smith's 5:37 When Chris and Melissa hit rock-bottom in their marriage 9:27 The steps Chris and Melissa took to fix their marriage 13:25 The importance of seeking wisdom in difficult times 16:48 Stay away from people who only have an opinion about your marriage 18:27 Chris and Melissa's advice for couples considering divorce 21:29 Can you fall out of love? 26:03 How you feel now may not be the reality 28:44 Take your marriage from good to great 30:55 How the to connect with the Smith 32:30 The Smith family mission statement 36:40 Final thoughts and advice

Over the past weeks, we have seen all 50 states in America alongside 18 countries standing together and participating in the #BlackLivesMatter protest making it the largest civil rights movement in world history. The world is crying out for a new order and peace. But where do we start? In today's podcast, Pete and Kim Vargas invite you into a real and raw conversation about the topic of racism. You will hear from Pete's mom, sisters, nephew, and even their own son.  The Vargas family is composed of many ethnicities such as Black, White, Hispanic, and more. You will hear a unique perspective on how racism affects every person and every generation.  We encourage you to use this episode as a resource to reflect on yourself, spark conversation within your own family and community to create a better future.   LINKS: Read the full blog: thenotsoperfectplan.com Read Tashas Facebook Post   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 1:44 The post that sparked the conversation 10:41 The need for accountability 16:52 Racism and the next generation 24:34 How to handle racism within your family 28:38 Three words that can bring healing 29:44 Racism in different areas 33:55 Winning the war through love 36:26 Raising blended children 43:22 Be a friend that listens 47:57 How the younger generation is feeling 57:42 How the millennials will impact the world 59:56 We can't lose hope 1:00:45 Closing prayer

What if your favorite song was actually healing you? According to science, it probably is.  In today's podcast, Kim Vargas interviews the Owner of Sonic Divinity Music Therapy Services and the author of Sonic Recovery. Tim Ringgold. After experiencing multiple tragedies and personal traumas, he turned to drugs and alcohol to find comfort. After reaching a point where substance abuse couldn't mask the pain, he discovered music therapy. Now he is on a mission is to empower people to reach for music when they are facing stress in work or life, rather than harmful substances or digital distractions.   LINKS: Read the full blog: thenotsoperfectplan.com timringgold.com Access the free gift Relaxation Vacation at sonicrecovery.com Tim's Book: Sonic Recovery     Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 1:18 Tim's plan 3:30 When Tim thought the world was ending 8:32 Growth mindset vs. Fixed midset 13:57 Resilience is a muscle 16:02 How Tim first responded to adversity 21:51 How Tim handled losing five close friends 23:42 Music is more than entertainment 28:13 The process of recovery 33:48 The three levels of influences you need for change 35:35 Where to start when overcoming addiction 40:51 How to get someone to want more 51:05 What happens in the brain when listening to music 54:24 When Tim gets his best ideas 57:07 How Tim is using music to serve others 1:06:50 Create a power playlist 1:10:49 Final advice from Tim

In today's episode, Pete Vargas interviews author, public speaker, life coach, and philanthropist Tony Robbins.    Between 43 years of entrepreneurship, and a rocky home life growing up, Tony has experienced the "winter" seasons in all areas of life.  Tony will give you the exact method and practical mindset shifts he has used to not only survive events like the great inflation,  911, the housing bust, COVID-19, and others but thrive.    This episode will impact the way you handle the big and small crisis that comes your way and will help the dream and plans in your heart become a reality.   "Crisis will always either destroy you or recreate you." - Tony Robbins LINKS: Read the full blog: thenotsoperfectplan.com tonyrobbins.com Join the Rise Up World group   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 3:18 Welcome Tony Robbins 4:06 why community is essential right now 6:29 Learn how to grow in the winter 14:24 The three decisions that shape every part of your life 16:24 Where is your focus? 18:50 The three patterns of focus 21:18 Focusing on what you can control 27:36 Tony's childhood 32:31 The importance of a mentor 36:42 Serve those who are worse off than you 38:24 Petes biggest takeaways   We are all in this together, share this episode with someone in your inner circle who needs help overcoming uncertainty.

In this episode, Kim Vargas interviews motivational speaker, world-class athlete, and Dancing with the Stars runner up, Amy Purdy.   Amy has faced several challenges throughout her life.  At 19, her life took a detour when she was rushed to the hospital due to septic shock. The experience would result in the loss of her legs. from the knee down. Only a few years later, near her 21st birthday. Amy received a donated kidney from her father.   Through those challenges and many others, Amy has learned the vital lesson of finding the gift in every challenge.    Listen in on Kim and Amy's conversation as they share the commonalities of their journey, re-live Dancing with the Stars, and share how to remain hopeful even when things are not going according to plan.    LINKS: thenotsoperfectplan.com Amy's Book On Amazon www.amypurdy.com/live amypurdy.com   Quick Episode Summary: 0:02 What to expect today 3:36 Meet Amy 9:24 Amy's near-death experience 16:03 Choosing to deal with it 18:30 Nothing is permanent 20:03 Being your own advocate 22:29 When Kim was diagnosed with lupus 30:00 How Amy's mom kept her going 36:55 Amy and Kim's transplant 43:26 When Amy went on Dancing with the Stars 47:00 Proving yourself right 53:16 The importance of challenges 1:03:53 Resiliency comes from commitment 1:09:07 Amy's event for teens 1:15:16 Kim's biggest takeaways

In today's episode, Pete and Kim interview internationally renowned motivational speaker Nick Santonastasso. Nick is the embodiment of the word resilience. Born with only one arm, life for Nick as a kid could have been difficult. But with the help of his family and his inner determination, he has not only lived what most people would call a "normal" life; he has lived an extraordinary life.    This episode will leave you inspired and determined to chase your dreams.   Special Note For Parents: In this episode, Nick also shares keys on how his parents handle their not so perfect plan. If you have younger children or if your kids are out of the house, the experience Nick shares from his parent's perspective is invaluable.     LINKS:  Nick's Book: Victim to Victor Nick's Mom's Book: Born to Break the Boundaries Nick's Mindset Course for Kids thenotsoperfectplan.com   Quick Episode Summary: Meet Nick! Nick's plan Nick's story How Nick was introduced to the world How Nick's parents remained resilient Growing up with disabilities When Nick realized he was different Catching the spiraling thoughts Nick's wrestling journey Where Nick is today How Nick and Tony Robbins connected How Nick's plan came full circle How to keep going Overcoming physical limitation    

Determination, resilience, grit, never say die. These are great sayings and words, but what do they look like practically when your world is falling apart, and your plan is going...not so perfect.   In today's episode, Pete and Kim Vargas interview New York Times bestseller Marie Forleo. This conversation will leave you confident that whatever comes your way, it is always "figureoutable".     LINKS: Everything Is Figureoutable thenotsoperfectplan.com     Quick Episode Summary: Welcome Marie When Marie started having relationship problems Marie's attempt to fix her relationship Listening to the small voice more How Marie and Justin remain connected Understanding your partners love language Eliminating the “wondering” When Marie was on Oprah One of the most critical skills to develop Everything is figureoutable

In today's episode, Pete and Kim Vargas interview Grammy award-winning artist Jermy Camp and his wife Adrienne.    If you have ever experienced loss or felt that your life was in crisis, this conversation will leave you inspired and hopeful to face any uncertainty life may through at you and your plan. LINKS: Watch 'I Still Believe' Rent on iTunes Rent on Amazon   More recourses: thenotsoperfectplan.com   Quick Episode Summary: What to expect today How Pete met Jeremy Camp Welcome the Camps! The trials Jermey faced when the movie released When Jeremy's first wife passed away How Jeremy handle the lowest seasons How Adrien was impacted by Jeremy's testimony When things started falling back into place How Adrien finds strength How to movie impacted Pete Keaton's biggest takeaway's from the movie Mia's biggest takeaways Final thoughts

Starting and growing a family was the plan and like many others, our “plan” didn't fall into place like we thought it would. It wasn't an easy or straight road to get there. We were hit left, right, up and down by life's roadblocks and potholes.    Can you relate?   Often times we set out for that thing we want so badly only to find out getting it isn't going to be easy. It's going to test our faith, our commitment, and our strength and how through those tests it's where we discover what we are capable of.   And it's then, in those tests and challenges where we are faced with a choice.     Do you give up, or will you continue?   It was through our journey to parenthood we were tested. We battled loss, fear, and health and instead of those real “life” moments stealing our dream of becoming parents they instead cemented what we knew was in our heart and therefore pushed us along in our very own Not So Perfect Plan.   It is because we continued, we have a story and it's because of that story, we created this podcast. Join us today as we share just one of our Not So Perfect Plans and the things we learned along our journey to get there.   Quick Episode Summary: Why Kim and Pete started The Not So Perfect plan Pete and Kim's perfect plan When fear gripped Pete When Keaton came home When Mia Joy was born When Kim had a stoke When Kim was released  from the hospital When Kim received her kidney transplant How baby number four came What Kim spoke over Emma every night Everything comes full circle When Kim found out she was pregnant How Kim overcame fear Advice on how to remain resilience