Podcasts about balancing family

Too many designers wait for their companies to approve conferences or courses before investing in themselves. This week, we unpack why that's a career-limiting mistake and how taking ownership of your education builds leadership, confidence, and community.What if the biggest career mistake you're making is waiting for your company to invest in you?This week, I sit down with Yao Adantor, a UX professional, educator, founder of UX Con and User Experience University. Yao has built a career across Fortune 500s, startups, and government, while also teaching at Johns Hopkins and MICA. At the heart of his story is one simple belief: don't wait for permission to grow.In our conversation, Yao shares why investing in your own education is less about buying a certificate and more about building confidence, networks, and opportunities that pay dividends for years. We talk about the “entrepreneurial mindset” of learning—how approaching your growth like a founder changes the way you show up in your job.We also dig into the hidden ROI of conferences, courses, and communities. Beyond the talks, it's the connections, the ideas, and the confidence you bring back to your team that make the investment worth it. Whether you're a junior designer or a seasoned leader, this episode will challenge how you think about your growth.If you've ever hesitated to spend your own money or time on learning, this conversation is for you. Give it a listen and rethink how you approach your education and career.Topics:• 03:04 – Investing in Your Own Education• 03:39 – Guest Introduction: Yao Anor• 05:15 – Yao's Journey into UX• 08:23 – The Importance of Networking and Conferences• 15:39 – Leadership and the Entrepreneurial Mindset• 25:52 – Defining Education and Personal Growth• 31:09 – Community and Fulfillment Through Education• 32:57 – Maximizing Education for Personal Growth• 34:09 – Balancing Family and Professional Development• 35:09 – The Sacrifices of Pursuing Education• 40:06 – The Importance of Leading by ExampleHelpful Links:• Connect with Yao on LinkedIn• UXCon 2025—Thanks for listening! We hope you dug today's episode. If you liked what you heard, be sure to like and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! And if you really enjoyed today's episode, why don't you leave a five-star review? Or tell some friends! It will help us out a ton.If you haven't already, sign up for our email list. We won't spam you. Pinky swear.• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get a FREE audiobook AND support the show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the show on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out show transcripts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Stitcher⁠

On this  episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer welcomes surfboard shaper and surf legend Neal Purchase Jr. to discuss his incredible journey through the world of surfing. From his early days screenprinting for Billabong and becoming a free surfing pro in the 90's  to his innovative board designs with deep family roots, Neal shares stories and insights that have defined his career. Joined by  co-host and friend of the show, Paul Colbert, the conversation explores Neal's pivotal moments in surf cinema, his unique duo fin setups, and his recent shaping residency at Pilgrim Surfing Supply in New York. The episode also touches on the evolution of surfboard preferences, balancing a surf-centric lifestyle with family responsibilities, and advice on fatherhood and surfing longevity. Don't miss this deep dive into the spirit of surfing and the craft of shaping with one of the industry's most revered figures.You can find Neal and order some incredible shapes at his website: https://www.nealpurchasedesigns.com/Or follow him on instagram @nealpurchasejnr The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Artist: Concrete BlondeSong: TrueAlbum: Concrete Blonde 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement01:09 Rewind to 1992: Surf Camp Memories02:25 Neil Purchase Jr.'s Surfing Legacy03:41 Welcome Neil Purchase Jr.04:01 Early Surfing Adventures and Influences05:20 The Evolution of Surf Culture06:36 Challenges and Changes in Surfing18:23 Health and Aging in Surfing21:50 Backside Tube Riding Techniques33:50 Shaping and Design Innovations44:49 Shaping Around the Fin: Techniques and Insights46:11 Exploring Twin Fins and Surfboard Design Evolution48:12 The Thrill of Surfing: Swells, Boards, and Travel48:38 Custom Surfboards: Crafting the Perfect Ride50:06 The Art of Surfboard Shaping: Techniques and Materials58:00 Surfing Culture and Community: Reflections and Changes01:05:45 Balancing Family and Surfing: Personal Insights01:17:56 Memorable Surfing Experiences and Lessons Learned01:21:04 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

Episode #171: Discover the remarkable journey of Sarah Talei, a dedicated probate attorney and mom of three, as she shares her insights into balancing the demands of motherhood and a thriving career. From our first chaotic yet memorable meeting at a baby class in Santa Monica to humorous tales of diaper mishaps, Sarah and I explore the beautiful messiness of early parenthood. Together, we highlight the invaluable support and camaraderie that form among mothers, offering heartfelt stories and laughter along the way. Uncover the emotional and physical challenges of navigating infertility and IVF treatments, as Sarah and I open up about personal experiences of resilience and hope. We delve into societal perceptions of fertility treatments and the crucial role of supportive friendships, especially in communities where such topics remain under-discussed. Our candid conversation emphasizes the power of genuine connections and the pride in overcoming obstacles, reminding us all of the strength found in shared experiences. Journey into the world of professional success and family dynamics with Sarah as she reflects on her career in probate law and the launch of Talei and Talei with her brother Nathan. We giggle about our future plastic surgery plans with Sarah's brother, famed surgeon Dr. Ben Talei. We discuss the significance of estate planning for families and the intricacies of sibling bonds, showcasing the importance of authenticity and self-care in balancing life's many facets. From personal rituals to cultural expectations, this episode weaves a tapestry of stories and advice, resonating with anyone striving to juggle the complexities of family, career, and self-discovery. Chapters:  (00:00) In Studio With Kimberly Lovi (07:06) Navigating Infertility Journey and Friendship (14:25) Navigating Probate and Family Dynamics (25:50) Balancing Family, Self-Care, and Traditions (31:26) Navigating Motherhood and Family Dynamics (39:24) Sibling Bond and Professional Success (46:38) Navigating Gender Norms and Cultural Expectations (54:01) Navigating Estate Planning With Sarah Talei   Visit https://taleiandtalei.com/ for probate and estate litigation services.  Follow Kimberly on Instagram and TikTok @kimberlylovi or @iconicnationmedia  WATCH us on YouTube and view our brand new studio! 

What does it take to bet everything on a dream? To live out of a van before it was fashionable, to commit to hard lines with no guarantee of success, and to walk away from risk when the stakes are too high?For Canadian climber Sonnie Trotter, it has always come down to conviction. From iconic ascents like Cobra Crack and The Path to bold multi-pitch routes on El Capitan, Sonnie has built a career — and a life — around the power of desire and the art of going all in.In this episode, Sonnie opens up about:The moment on Mount Stephen with Tommy Caldwell when he chose family over risk — and why that decision shaped his climbing life.What it means to reverse-engineer objectives, breaking down the impossible into repeatable steps that anyone can apply to sport, career, or life.The reality of van life with young kids — the chaos, the beauty, and the lessons in resilience.Why desire matters more than talent in chasing audacious goals.How sleep, recovery, and health now stand as his most important climbing priorities.This is not just a climbing story. It's a conversation about awe, identity, and how to keep your fire alive — whether you're chasing 5.14 cracks or simply trying to stay true to your path in midlife.Stay to the end: Sonnie shares his philosophy on legacy, why life is shorter than we think (in the most liberating sense), and how to pursue what matters with urgency and love.Sonnie's InstagramSonnie's book - Uplifted! ---

Ever feel like you're trying to juggle it all—growing a business, being present with your family, staying healthy, and somehow keeping your sanity intact? In this episode of The Happy Hustle Podcast, I sit down with Jason Bronstad, CEO of Malk Organics, to talk about sustainable business growth, intentional living, and why self-love and family must come first. Jason's story is real, raw, and full of wisdom for anyone navigating the tightrope between ambition and intentional living.Jason has led Malk Organics through incredible growth—scaling from just over 1,200 stores to more than 15,000 nationwide. But his journey isn't just about impressive numbers. It's about hitting rock bottom, finding self-love, and redefining success through family, health, and community. He's not just building a sustainable company; he's building a sustainable life. And that's why his message matters—because it reminds us that Happy Hutslin' is possible when your values align with your vision.Some of the biggest takeaways from our conversation? First, Jason reminds us that family should always come before business. It's easy to get lost in work, but at the end of the day, it's your loved ones who matter most. Second, he talks about the power of intentionality—not just in how you run your business, but in how you live your life. Third, Jason shares his personal journey of overcoming rock bottom moments and finding self-love, a powerful reminder that success starts on the inside. We also dive into lessons on raising capital with clarity, building a culture that celebrates individual dreams, and keeping your team focused and accountable. And maybe my favorite nugget—Jason believes you can have fun doing hard work. Hustling doesn't have to mean misery.This episode is packed with practical wisdom and heartfelt insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and life. If you've ever wondered how to balance building something great without sacrificing what matters most, this one's for you. -In this episode, we cover: -Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship -The Importance of Intentional Planning -Overcoming Misconceptions in Professional Identity -The Journey to Self-Love and Acceptance -Navigating Rock Bottom and Seeking Help -The Weight of Masculinity and Emotional Health -The Entrepreneurial Journey of Malk Organics -Leadership and Team Dynamics -Capital Growth and Future Vision -Transitioning Leadership and Investor Relations -The Complexities of Raising Capital -Understanding Proof Points for Success -Building a Sustainable Company -The Long Game in Business Decisions -Aligning Personal Values with Business Goals -Cultivating Company Culture through Dreams -Celebrating Wins and Building CommunityWhat does Happy Hustlin mean to you? Jason says it means going to find that thing that lights you up from the inside, where you actually can go inspire others to go live a good life. Connect with Jasonhttps://www.facebook.com/MALKORGANICS/https://www.instagram.com/MALKORGANICS/https://www.tiktok.com/@malkorganicsFind Jason on this website: www.malkorganics.comConnect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance https://www.thehappyhustle.com/bookSign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Coursehttps://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventurehttps://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode Sponsors:If you're feeling stressed, not sleeping great, or your energy's been kinda meh lately—let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer for me: Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers. This ain't your average magnesium—it's got all 7 essential forms that your body needs to chill out, sleep deeper, and feel more balanced. I take it every night and legit notice the difference the next day. No more waking up groggy or tossing and turning all nightIf you're ready to sleep like a baby, calm your nervous system, and optimize your recovery, go grab yours now at bioptimizers.com/happy and use code HAPPY10 for 10% OFF.99 Designs- Need a killer logo, stunning website, or next-level brand design?Stop DIY-ing and start delegating like a boss with 99designs by Vista! Neurable- If you're looking to level up your focus, productivity, and mental wellbeing all at once, do yourself a favor and check out Neurable. You get a special hookup—just use the code HAPPY at checkout and get $100 off.

I chat with Craig Hewitt , founder of Castos. We talk about his journey from running a podcast editing agency to building a SaaS hosting platform. We cover the challenges of bootstrapping, raising funds, and going international. Craig shares how he uses distribution channels, how AI affects small teams, and what it's like to scale in a niche market. We end with advice for indie founders on picking business models, taking risks, and keeping up with tech changes.My twitter: https://x.com/wbetiagoAbout Craig HewittTwitter: https://x.com/TheCraigHewittPodcast: https://roguestartups.com/Timestamps by PodsqueezeGreg's Background and Starting Podcast Motor (00:01:02)Getting First Clients and Sales Approach (00:06:29)US vs. Europe: Customer Acquisition Differences (00:08:25)Localization and Multi-Currency Pricing (00:13:18)Transition from Agency to SaaS: Castus (00:16:30)Distribution Channels and Product Positioning (00:19:06)Impact of AI on Team and Product Development (00:25:28)Bootstrapping vs. Raising Money: Tiny Seed Experience (00:30:25)Agency vs. SaaS: Which to Start First? (00:31:33)Tiny Seed Accelerator: Value and Learnings (00:35:55)Distribution, Churn, and Growth Challenges (00:38:56)Balancing Family, Agency, SaaS, and Accelerator (00:41:05)Using Investment to Scale and the Realities of Raising Money (00:44:05)Investor Returns and Exit Expectations (00:51:19)Podcasting Market Realities and Churn (00:54:10)Pricing, Retention, and Content Marketing Plateau (00:57:23)What to Do When Growth Plateaus (01:00:59)AI's Impact on SaaS and the Economy (01:10:21)US vs. Europe: Entrepreneurial Mindset Differences (01:14:53)Conclusion and Where to Find Greg (01:17:58)Links and MentionsTools and Websites"Castos": "00:01:02""Podcast Motor": "00:01:02""Audacity": "00:05:40""Ecom from Skype": "00:05:40""Blueberry": "00:05:50""Buzzsprout": "00:05:50""Seriously Simple Podcasting": "00:17:36""HubSpot": "00:19:14""Cursor": "00:15:11""Zencastr": "00:22:33""Zoom": "00:22:33""Figma": "00:24:26""Cursor": "00:27:41""TinySeed": "00:30:25""11 Labs": "00:26:30""Claude": "00:26:30""Marnus": "00:26:30""TinySeed": "00:48:33""WordPress": "00:51:19""Podsqueeze": "00:54:10""Apple Podcast Connect": "00:55:13""Rogue Startups": "01:17:58"Books"Steal Like an Artist": "00:19:31"Videos and Podcasts"Nathan Barry's Podcast": "01:08:40"

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Brian Gunther shares his musical journey, from his early passion for recording to the development of his solo project, Woods of Light. He discusses his creative process, influences, and the importance of authenticity in songwriting. Brian also reflects on the therapeutic role of music in his life and the intimate nature of his live performances. As he looks to the future, he shares insights into his upcoming projects and the themes that inspire his work.TakeawaysBrian's passion for music started at a young age.He has a diverse musical background, influenced by various genres.His creative process involves recording ideas on his phone.Woods of Light is his long-term solo project.He values authenticity in songwriting.Live performances are intimate and storytelling-focused.Music serves as a therapeutic outlet for him.He finds inspiration in nature and personal experiences.Brian admires Stephen Wilson for his prolific work.He aims to create relatable music that connects with listeners.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brian Gunther02:07 Brian's Musical Journey05:40 Creative Process and Songwriting09:30 The Woods of Light Project14:04 Influences and Inspirations19:03 The Metal Scene and Community23:31 Future Aspirations and Performances28:14 Musical Influences and Inspirations29:42 Creative Blocks and Artistic Needs32:13 The Impact of Environment on Music34:43 Live Performance Experience36:53 Documentary Insights and Experiences38:27 Balancing Family and Music40:11 Defining Musical Style42:23 Authenticity in Songwriting46:44 The Role of Music in Healing55:14 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts56:01 Dawg and Gus 1.mp3

In this special takeover episode of The Coaching 101 Podcast, the spouses of coaches come together for a heartfelt and humorous discussion about their unique experiences. Samantha Chamberlain, Jamey Simpson, Jessica Collins, Corinne Stevens, and Lindsay Harvey introduce themselves and share insights into managing busy lives filled with coaching, family activities, and supportive relationships. They delve into the challenges and rewards of being a coach's wife, offering tips on intentionality, quality time, and finding balance during the hectic football season. The episode also includes a segment dedicated to quotes, sponsorships, and a poignant message for the public about the dedication of coaches. The wives close the episode by emphasizing the importance of appreciating and supporting the sacrifices made by coaches and their families.00:00 Introduction and Host Takeover00:14 Meet the Wives00:55 Life as a Coach's Wife04:35 Quote of the Week06:14 Sponsorships and Advertisements09:18 Challenges and Behind the Scenes22:49 Supporting the Family During the Season39:46 The Sacrifices of Coaches40:56 Coaches Are Human Too42:02 Community Involvement and Trust46:59 Preparing for the Season48:34 Balancing Family and Coaching50:15 Intentionality and Support54:26 Admiring the Coaches01:06:50 Team Dinners and Bonding01:13:29 Social Media Etiquette for Coaches' WivesDaniel Chamberlain: @CoachChamboOK ChamberlainFootballConsulting@gmail.com chamberlainfootballconsulting.com Kenny Simpson: @FBCoachSimpson fbcoachsimpson@gmail.com FBCoachSimpson.com

The Boxing MIND in the Building!Tim “The Red Hawk” Welch is joined by the legend Joe “Diesel” Riggs, UFC FIGHTER Tommy "Gunz' McMillen, and the host of The W.A.D.E Concept, Wade Plem! Wade tells all on the highly anticipated boxing match between Canelo and Terrance Crawford, the CRAZY Misfits boxing card, Andrew Tate potentially fighting again and more!⚡️Check out PrizePicks! Sign up with code "TIMBO" to play $5 and WIN $50 INSTANTLY Click here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/ivHR/TIMBO♠️ Check out Spade! Use Code: TIMBOSPADE10 FOR 10% OFF!!https://www.amazon.com/stores/SPADE/page/91C86242-444D-487E-9D63-3FBB1503187F?ref_=ast_blnTimestamps00:00 Prize Picks CODE TIMBO00:38 Welcome Wade Plem!1:51 Wade's YouTube Origin Story3:31 Tommy's DWCS Fight was INSANE4:18 Misfit Boxing BREAKDOWN 7:59 Darren Till vs Jake Paul BREAKDOWN9:35 Jake Paul vs Gervonta Davis BREAKDOWN12:26 Canelo vs Crawford BREAKDOWN14:06 Spade Ad CODE TIMBOSPADE1014:37 Canelo vs Crawford BREAKDOWN Pt. 218:42 Wade Sparred Dillion Danis

Today we welcome Tracey and Tom Davey onto the R2Kast!

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership for the Society of Human Resource Management. They delve into the pressing issue of working caregivers, a topic that has gained urgency as over 50 million individuals balance professional responsibilities with caregiving for children, adults with chronic conditions, and the elderly. This conversation is particularly insightful as it highlights the evolving landscape of employee experience and the need for inclusive leadership in supporting caregivers, especially in light of the ongoing shifts in workforce demographics. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to identify the unique needs of caregivers within your organization. Discover why flexibility in workplace policies can enhance productivity and retention. Explore strategies for embedding a culture of support that benefits all employees. Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on how to better support working caregivers in your organization! Guest(s): James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership, Society of Human Resource Management

Episode SummaryHow do you break into the games industry later in your career? And once you're in, how do you build a meaningful life and community without burning out? In this episode, Greg is joined by Amir Satvat, a Business Development leader at Tencent and the winner of the "Game Changers" award. Amir is one of the industry's most important connectors, having built a community that has helped thousands find jobs and opportunities.Amir shares his incredible journey from finance at Goldman Sachs to gaming in his late 30s, offering a practical playbook for career pivots. He breaks down his disciplined, non-negotiable approach to balancing a high-stakes job with being a present father and husband, and reveals why true networking is a 12-month game of building relationships, not a last-minute job hunt. This conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to build a sustainable and impactful career in games.Timestamps (01:55) The Pivot: Amir details his unconventional path from banking and healthcare into the games industry. (11:00) The Non-Negotiable Framework: How Amir uses rigorous time-blocking to protect family time and avoid burnout. (25:49) Confronting Ageism: Amir discusses the industry's challenge with retaining and valuing older talent. (32:25) The #1 Networking Mistake: Why you need to build relationships long before you need them. (39:40) The Financial Modeling Trap: How a finance-first mindset can be both a powerful tool and a creativity killer in game development.Guest BioAmir Satvat is a leader in Business Development and Strategy at Tencent and the founder of a professional gaming community that has helped thousands of people. Known as one of the industry's most important connectors, his work is driven by a deep passion for helping others succeed. LinkedIn: Amir Satvat Community Hub: amirsatvat.comKey Topics Breaking into the games industry mid-career Effective networking strategies for long-term success Balancing a demanding career with fatherhood and family life Transferable skills from other industries (finance, tech, healthcare) Community building and the power of trust Continuing education and staying relevant Industry challenges: ageism, the future of consoles, and business modelsRelevant Links Amir's Community Website Tencent

The word AI gets bandied about by everyone in everything today, and I've been wanting to unpack the opportunities and challenges our future world holds for us. So I'm delighted to welcome technology ethicist Dr. Mona Hamdy to the show this week. On Part 1 of our conversation this week, we talk about her pivots, and how she found herself at this unique intersection of technology and human dignity. Coming up next week on Part 2, I pick Mona's brain on some of my questions on the future world of AI: have we unleashed something we don't really understand? How does the emerging world prioritise its technology adoption? Links: iConnections AiXplain This episode is brought to you by EFG Hermes One, your one app for investing in more than 35 stock markets worldwide. Start Investing Today! Chapters 0:00 Introduction 4:37 Childhood Experiences in Egypt 11:07 Philosophical Foundations of Technology 17:26 Early Career and Social Development 24:33 Balancing Family and Education 29:00 Her mother's impact 37:56 The Future of AI and Its Implications Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People matter more than position, and leadership starts with taking care of others. Doing that right means a million acts. SUMMARY Those are lessons Lt. Col. Steven “Meathead” Mount '08 shares with listeners in the Season 4 premier of Long Blue Leadership. For Col. Mount, becoming a pilot was a major milestone, but becoming a husband and father had the biggest impact. Don't wait, listen today and become a better leader tomorrow.   SHARE THIS PODCAST FACEBOOK  |  LINKEDIN   COL. MOUNT'S TOP LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS Adoption shaped my understanding of support and love. Leadership is about lifting others to achieve their best. Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth. Balancing family and career is a continuous challenge. It's important to have tough conversations as a leader. Resilience is key to overcoming setbacks in life and career. Listening more than talking is essential for effective leadership. Recognizing the importance of support systems can enhance leadership effectiveness. Leadership is defined by consistent, everyday actions. The military community thrives on teamwork and mutual support.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Lessons 06:43 The Impact of Adoption on Leadership 14:53 Navigating Challenges at the Academy 22:49 Career Path and Opportunities in Aviation 33:31 Balancing Family and Military Career 44:18 Continuous Improvement as a Leader     ABOUT COL. MOUNT BIO Lt. Col. Steven “Meathead” Mount is a decorated officer in the United States Air Force with a career marked by leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation. A command pilot with thousands of flight hours, he has served in a variety of demanding roles across multiple aircraft and theaters, bringing a wealth of experience in both combat and peacetime operations. Beyond the cockpit, Lt. Col. Mount is widely recognized for his ability to lead diverse teams through complex challenges, foster innovation, and develop leaders at every level. His career reflects not only technical expertise but also a people-first leadership philosophy that emphasizes accountability, resilience, and service. Known by his call sign “Meathead,” he brings both humility and humor to the serious business of leading Airmen. His story is one of dedication to mission and country, but also of shaping culture, inspiring others, and leaving a lasting impact on the Air Force community.   CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org Ted Robertson | Producer and Editor:  Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org    Ryan Hall | Director:  Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org  Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor:  Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer:  Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org      ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Guest, Lt. Col. Steven Mount '08  |  Host, Lt. Col. Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz Welcome to the first episode of Season 4 of Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. We're kicking off this season with a story that shows how our earliest experiences can shape the kind of leaders we become. Lt. Col. Steve Mount, Class of 2008, call sign “Meathead,” didn't fully realize that truth until later in life. Adopted as an infant, he came to understand that love and support aren't guaranteed. They're gifts. Over his 17-year career, Col. Mount has flown missions across a wide range of aircraft, from the C-130 to special operations to the U-2. And today, he's in command. But through every stage, one belief has stayed with him: People succeed not only through their own efforts, but because someone believed in them. In this conversation, we'll talk about how those early lessons have shaped criminal mom's approach to leading airmen, mentoring the next generation of pilots, balancing mission and family and building teams that are rooted in trust. His story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't about the me game, it's about lifting others so they can achieve their best. So what better way to start our new season? Col. Mount, welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Lt. Col. Steven Mount Thank you so much, ma'am for having me. I really do appreciate this opportunity to at least try to share some of my stories, experiences and honestly, if anything touches base with those who listen in and resonates, that's why I'm glad to be here. Naviere Walkewicz Well, let's start right with a way for them to connect with you. You mentioned your call sign is Meathead. Let's start there. Lt. Col. Steven Mount OK, I'll do my best to tell the story as quickly as I can. And the fun thing about being a pilot — but also I think this plays true in any type of storytelling environment — is, you know, only 10% of the story has to be true when it comes to your call signs. So to start… Oh my gosh— I know there's some friends out there who are going to laugh at this, especially of mine. Going through pilot training… The last part of the pilot training, when I was in the T-1s, when you get to that last part, you know, after you've gone through all the ups and downs, you kind of celebrate a little bit more. And that's what I've done. I had gone out with a couple of my rugby brothers that I played with at the Academy, and we'd gone out to just a country, a little country dance hall, and, you know, we're just enjoying and celebrating. And one of my rugby brothers introduced me to one of his friends through his wife, and this individual, who I didn't know much about at the time, had said— I said, “Yeah, I'm starting T-1s here and all that good stuff. And I immediately, immediately — especially in the celebratory mood I was in — thought, “Oh, this is another awesome student that's coming through. Like, hey, let me start giving you the tidbits. Let me start laying out what to expect.” And that's how I treated this individual for the rest of that evening. You know, we're dancing and having fun and just talking it up. And it was a good evening. It was really good evening. Come Monday morning, I get the word I'm flying with this new instructor in the T- 1s. And I had no idea who this individual was. I did not recognize the name at all. And I asked our flight schedule, like, “Who's this?” Is like, “Oh, it's a new person coming in. I think you're one of his first flights back in the T-1s training wise.” And I was like, “Well, OK, I'm ready to go.” And I sit down, and then this instructor sits down right across from me, and it's a major and sure enough, it's this, the person I thought was a student at the Texas dance, the country dance hall that we were at.   Naviere Walkewicz Oh boy!   Lt. Col. Steven Mount He looks me up and down. Oh, it was one of those moments of shock, of like, “What do I… Where do I go from here?” And he looks me up and down, he goes, and he laughs, and he goes, “Man, you are just such a meathead.” And so that's where it started. And call signs and nicknames— sometimes, some people like, wanna try change it throughout their careers and try to like, “No, that's not who I am. I don't want that to define me.” So as I'm leaving pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base, Del Rio, I'm heading towards my first assignment in Tucson, Arizona for the EC-130 and I'm like, “OK, here we go. I'm gonna start fresh. I'm not that meathead that went through the Academy playing rugby. I'm not that meathead in pilot training to I just like to have fun. Just like to have fun. I do my own thing, and I'm gonna start fresh.” And I get out, and one of the very first meetings I had in the new squadron was with the DO, Lt. Col. Reimer. He sits down with me, and he says, “Come on in, because I'm in blues. He goes, come on in. Sit down. And then he's just quiet. I'm like, this is interesting. He looks me up and down and goes, “Yeah, you definitely look like a meathead.” And I'm like, “Whoa.” So sure enough, the major that I flew with was really good friends and had flown with this squadron, told this DO about me, and the DO got through his spiel, introduced me to my first flight commander before I deployed in Afghanistan, and goes, “Hey, this is Meathead. Take care of him. He's a good one.” I was like, “No, no, everyone, please, let's stop.” And then throughout the years, things kept happening that just reinforced the call sign, Meathead. I got into U-2s, me and a buddy, also pilots. We popped both tires on a T-38 at Long Beach Airport, and we closed down the airport for about five hours. It was on the local news. Not happy about that. And then there were multiple times where I tried to, like, get rid of the Meathead persona, the callsign, but I think it was finally solidified on a CNN interview on one of my U-2 deployments, where the lady interviewing us goes, “OK, we can't use your real name. So what name should we use? And before I could even say anything, one of my buddies just pops up and goes, “ It's Meathead.CNN lady, use Meathead.” And I was like, “OK.” And then international news in that interview, I am Capt. Meathead. And I never got away from the call sign, Meathead.   Naviere Walkewicz We are gonna find that clip of Capt. Meathead.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount It is out there, just U-2… I think the article under CNN: “U-2 spy plane carries out the mission against terrorist organizations.” You know, not that I didn't remember what it was called.   Naviere Walkewicz Well, I would say you heard it here first, but you didn't. You heard it maybe, if you heard it in the U-2 world or what have you. But we're gonna find it again. And so we're gonna resurrect here first, but we're so glad you're here. Yes, yes, this is awesome. And you know, I think one of the things I really enjoyed in our early conversation, and what we're gonna share today is how you kind of look back and you are very grateful and thankful for the upbringing you have. And so let's kind of go back to the fact, you know, not a lot of our guests share kind of their background, and the fact that you share that you were adopted. What did that kind of, what role did that play in your life? And, you know, was it insignificant? Or, you know, what did you glean from that? Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yeah, I really appreciate that question. And honestly, I really appreciate you giving the opportunity to kind of share that. It has played a huge role in my life. Adopted 11 months. And what it did for me is set the foundation of the family. It may not necessarily be one you have, it's the one who who's there for you, who supports you, who loves you. And then, honestly, the other part about being adopted, which I kind of— there were struggles, like, it wasn't perfect, but there were struggles in my mind where I wanted to show that those who adopted me, I wanted to show them that I could be more and thank them, you know, on a daily basis, for everything they had done for me, supporting me. So that drove me, that motivated me to get into the Academy, or even— back up, even like, do well in high school, get into the Academy, become a pilot. All of that was the basis of— I want to show that in a weird way, I want to show that your investment was worth it. You know, you found me, you gave me the love and support. So I'm going to give back to you by showing you what you were able to, you know, give a second chance, small, little child. And then the— but the other side of that, and I don't know how many of those who are adopted, who feel like this sometimes. Can't be the only one, but I can at least convey it here. There's a sense of, you know, “Why? Why was I adopted?” You know, what really happened in the sense that those who biologically brought me into this world, was I not worthy enough? Was I just a bad situation. And so there's that part I keep motivational wise to be like, “Well, I'm going to show them what they're missing out on.” And I know that's more of the negative kind of side of the whole internal conflict of being adopted. But I would be lying if I didn't say that that was part of the drive that kept me going throughout those years.   Naviere Walkewicz Something that came to my mind when you were saying that was, you know— when did you find out? And how old were you to kind of start having those, those thoughts and questions, you know, not only why, but how do I show that I am worthy?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yes, so my mother and father did an amazing job of, I remember, I can't remember the name of this particular book, but there was a book that she had given me that she read to me, and that, throughout the years, as I she utilized, helped me start reading and whatnot. And the basis of the book was, you know, cartoon with a little bit of words, is, “You were not purchased, you know, you were not bought at a store. You know you were, you were brought in and chosen and to be a part of a family.” So she, she wanted to have this idea that I always knew, that was adopted. She never wanted to surprise me, or she never wanted to be like, one day, like, “Hey, just so you know…” She did an awesome job of leading into that, Hey, you were adopted. But don't look at it as this, ‘We went to the store and we picked out the one we liked.' It's more of a, ‘We wanted you in our family.' And that's where it started.” It started, “We wanted a bigger family.” Whether they were, at the time, not able to grow or have themselves, they decided that, “We still want to grow a family. So let's look through adoption as a means.” So she had that book, I remember that book, and then the other book, which I still love to this day, and I got a copy for my kids, I Love You Forever, and how she would read that book to me every single night with the words, “…and I love you forever, like you for always. As long as you're living, my baby, you'll be.” That showed me that it didn't matter where I came from. This was my mom, you know, this was my family. So she did a really good job laying that foundation for me, for who I've become to be.   Naviere Walkewicz So would you put your parents in that bucket of inspirational leaders for you that have shaped you? And are there others?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount One-hundred percent. Like I said, the foundational piece of being that inspirational leader, to me in the sense of working on it all the time, right? It's not simple but accepting people for who they are. Where they're at in life. Accept them for their faults, accept them for the things that they don't like about themselves, but just accepting them and giving them the support, giving them the love that they need to show them, that they can do anything, I like to think for the most part, I'm an example of that because of what my parents did for me.   Naviere Walkewicz So, as a young boy, and you talked a little bit about this, you wanted to prove to them. So Was that something you feel over time, you continue to develop this desire to show your worth? And where have you seen that show up I guess even throughout your going— maybe even at the Academy, how has that kind of formed you as a leader individually?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yes, yes. So the showing the worth, the showing the value, or paying it back and showing my parents, once again, I use the word “investment” like it was good— I was good investment. Like I was a good return on investment. But it's helped when I've gone through those struggles, when I've gone— because the first time I put in for the Academy and… back up just a little bit. My dad likes to tell a story that I even told my fifth-grade teacher that she was, you know, “What do you want to do?” I was like, “I'm gonna be a pilot.” I said nothing else. Like, I want to be pilot. I want to fly. And then I had had an awesome mentor whose son, at the time, was going through the process of the Academy, sophomore year in high school, and she helped me with that. Good ol' Mrs. Williams, amazing. When I first initially applied for the Academy, I did not get it. I got a “Sorry, you are not competitive at this time.” Here starts some of those moments in your life to where, like, “OK. How can I bounce back? Do I accept the rejection, or do I find another means?” And even when that happened, that first time, my parents, they were like, “It's OK, it's OK. You don't need to…” They were always like, “You don't need to prove anything else. We love you, regardless.” I was like, “No, I need to prove this.” So I found other means, and I was, I will say, blessed in the sense that at that time, my running back coach for the high school reached out to the Academy. This happened early my senior year, and reached out and was like, “Hey, we have, I have someone who I think might do well for your program.” And then, sure enough, I got invited to come out for a football recruiting visit and I sat down with Fisher Deberry, and he just goes, “Would you like to play for this program?” And once again, I was like, “Wait a minute. No, no. I already got rejected. You know, I already gotten the…” But obviously I was going through my head, but all I said was, “Yes, sir, I would love to play for this program. I'd love to go the Academy.” And he made it happen. And I got recruited, and I got the invite to come out, to go the United States Air Force Academy. Wow. And once again, that only happened because my parents, they said, “Hey, we don't care what happens. We love you. Support you. You make the decision and we're here behind you.” And then I had a coach who was like, “I got you. I've seen what you do. I support this.” And went out on a limb for me. And then, in a sense, I guess Fisher DeBerry was also like, “I'm taking this football recruit, I hope he makes it through the Academy. So the love and support is, was there throughout.   Naviere Walkewicz What a path, I mean, that is quite unique. And, yeah, that's something to just kind of sit in a little bit, right? You know, the path of to your point, it just comes from support. And obviously you have to do the things to make sure that when the opportunity presents itself, you're ready to take that step, but what an incredible story of those who have supported you. Let's talk about a little bit before we kind of get into I think, what I think is the next real moment in your life — when you talk about becoming a father in your family. But while you're at the Academy, I'm just curious what more you learned about yourself as a leader, because you no longer had to prove to your parents that you were worthy of their investment, right? Like this is investment, right? Like this is a new season of your life. What did that look like for you as a leader?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount The challenges and the experiences I had the Academy — and I know I talked about this in one of my interviews previously with the foundation — was that I had to I went through my sophomore year and the rigors of academics, of the military side, of sports. It was taking this toll. I will say this many times. I'll continue to say I'm not the smartest crayon in the shed.   Naviere Walkewicz Wait, did you say crayon in the shed?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount I did. A little mixture of the sharpest tool in the box, exactly. I love it! I'm glad someone caught it. That's perfect! But yes, hard work was probably the foundation of what the Academy taught me was you persevere by hard work. You do the day in; you do the day out. You get after it. Because I was not getting after it after sophomore year. My GPA was not the best, and I had to approach my sophomore year, which very fortunate, because I had done my best to put in the time with the football program. But obviously I was losing ground in the academic side and that came back to almost biting, in the sense that I could have failed out. So I had had one of those— Once again, my father being an amazing mentor himself, whether he knows it or not. And I talked to him, and I said, “Dad, I think I have to quit football. I don't think I can continue with this, the rigors of all of this with the Academy.” And he goes, “Well, what was your dream?” I was like, “My dream was to fly.” He goes, “Well, did you go there to play football? Or did you go there to fly?” And that was an easy answer. But then I was thinking about all those coaches and mentors and those who helped me get to where I was, and I never really quit at something, and that's what it felt like. It really felt like I was quitting. I was quitting my teammates. I was quitting my coaches. And that weighs heavy on your soul, for all those out there who just are struggling, like, “Should I continue?” But my dad was right. My priorities weren't to become a football player, because I wasn't gonna be. I wasn't going to be. I wasn't going to become, you know, some — who can I name drop? — Chad Hall, you know, going to the NFL, doing amazing things. I wasn't going to be out there starting on, maybe third if they still have fourth string… maybe fourth string. So my dad helped me with those priorities by, once again, just being supportive. He never said one way or the other. He said, “What do you want to do?” And so I had that hard conversation with him, and went down to the Field House, and I said, “I apologize. I have to quit so I can concentrate on what I want to do for my dreams.” And once we had that was hard, that was very difficult. So that was one of the challenges at the Academy presented, and how I bounced back from that was you always go two ways. You always go into the woe is me and you know, just kind of beat yourself up and just hold on to that, that pride and ego being shattered. Or you can find a community, a support group, that will be there with you. And I found that almost immediately with my rugby brothers. They're just like me. They're like, “Hey, we just like to hang out at our own little table at Mitchell Hall. We like to just come out, play the sport, do what you love to do, athletic wise, and you'll have some more free time, obviously, for academics.” Not that I'd utilize that correctly still, but that's what it took to get me through those next couple years, that and my amazing roommates. I think all of us Academy grads and those who are going through right now, a support of a good roommate is huge. I that, uh, I appreciate the question, because now it's just dawning on me how much I just really appreciate my roommates at the Academy for their support as well. Very similar to my parents, it's like, “Hey, I don't care what you do, but I'm here to support you, love you regardless.” So I got a lot of that the Academy, and that's what helped get me through.   Naviere Walkewicz That's amazing. I think there's a couple of things I want to dig into a little bit. The first one is, you know, I think deciding to have that tough conversation where, one, you felt like you're already prideful, and you're having to, I'm putting in air quotes, “quit.” Can you talk about how you approached that, other than, I know you went and did it. But I think sometimes one of the most challenging things we can do as leaders is have a tough conversation when it involves us either stepping back or taking a step down from what seems to be the trajectory of what's next. And so I'm just— if you could just share a little bit more about that, I think that would be helpful.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount So, and I just want to clarify: As leaders, we have to recognize and we have to have the courage to have the tough conversations, because that wouldn't be the first time that I'd have to make a decision in that regard, or have the tough conversations to where it was gonna affect me personally or those around me. You deal with it understanding, one, give yourself a little bit of grace. Give yourself a little bit of grace in the sense that whatever tough decision you have to make, you're not alone. And I imagine you might not always be the first person who had either to make that decision or was going through something like that. I was not the only one going through something at that time like that. I didn't know that. And so I've had other conversations where others were like, “Yeah, I also, you know how to make that type of call to not play anymore or give up something, because my priority was this...” You know, what was driving me to succeed was something else, and that followed me well throughout my career, because I've had many, many tough conversations. I've had the tough talk as a leader. I've had to tell someone that, “I'm sorry, your dreams to become a pilot…” It's not going to happen because of their performance. I've had conversations on how to get through those tough moments and said how to get on the other side. And I know it's like a broken record, but it just comes through with the support of being there for that individual or being there to guide them to the next step. And I had that. I had that when I made that tough decision. I had someone want to give myself grace. Two, I realized I was not alone. And three, I had the support to get from this side of that tough decision bridge to the other side. And because that support was there, I learned that, and I learned to pass that on from all my leadership opportunities, to be like, “Let me be the one who guides you over this bridge. It's not gonna be fun. There's gonna be parts are gonna hurt. It's gonna be painful. But I will be next to you to get to the other side, to where we can get back to a good place. We get back to what really matters and get back to succeed in maybe another sense.” So the tough convos as leaders, you have to have those tough convos. Do not shy away from them. They're gonna happen, whether you like it or not.   Naviere Walkewicz I'm really glad you shared it that way, because I think it created a pathway to how to approach it, to your point. You know, it they're not comfortable, they're not designed to be that way. But if you start it with, you know, being that support in mind, and how to get someone, even if you're giving the worst news, the worst news where, “This was your dream, you're not gonna be able to do it because of this. And here's now where we're at, and how can I help you succeed through that?” I think that's what a wonderful lesson you just shared. And so I want to dive now into your career, because you had a really broad career, one that's not a traditional path, and I want to understand why it looked that way. So C-130, EC-130, Special Ops, you— talk a little bit about how you navigated that and what was the driving reasons behind that navigation?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yes, ma'am. So something you said earlier, which I really liked, I really love to try to convey to those around me, and actually, I've gone through some of these conversations over the last month and a half with younger instructor pilots. Luck is just the crossroad of opportunity and being prepared, and I'm pretty sure someone super smarter than me said that. I barely remembered. But the opportunities that present themselves to me for what I wanted to do, for my goals in the Air Force. So thankfully, even getting through pilot training, that was, in itself, amazing, transformational. Getting those wings, right? Getting those wings because pilot training, just like my Academy career, I had some ups and downs and some challenges but was able to get through because the sense of me becoming a pilot was first and foremost to fly. I want to be up there in the sky. I want to rush past the clouds. I want to touch the highest point I can. I want to be a pilot's pilot. And then right behind that was I want to accomplish the mission for whatever platform or whatever weapon system I'm given, aircraft wise. So those are my two biggest priorities. And that helped me understand that I had some failures of pilot training when I got to my first assignment, EC-130s. But that was perfect for me. That was— I never knew that. I never knew that in pilot training, that the EC-130 would fulfill me in that sense of my sense of purpose as much as it did. And I'm and getting out there, like said, four or five deployments to Afghanistan, as well as multiple TDYs. I was doing the mission, and I was happy, because I was— that's exactly what I wanted to do. That's exactly what young Meathead Mount was built for. But there were parts of me that still wanted to do more. Like, I felt like I could do more. I could be— I could help out more. I could— it's just itching, or not itching, but just burning in the back. It's like, “Hey, you are built for so much more. You can do more. Let's look for those opportunities.” So, funny enough, the first opportunity I had at that time, or I thought I had, was I reached out to— it's no longer around — but the 6th Special Operations Squadron at Duke Field. It was a combat aviation advisory mission. These individuals got to travel the world. I got to learn languages. Literally, they were sent to school to learn languages, to embed with other nations, to build those relationships, to be on the ground but still flying multiple different aircraft. I was like, “That's awesome. That sounds like me. That sounds like something I can do, and I can bring value to the table, and all the above.” So I put in my application; it was immediately rejected. In their eyes, I did not have the experience yet. I did not have what they were looking for, understandable. So here I am in another situation to where, like, “OK, well, what do I— is there any other means or ways that I can continue to fulfill my purpose as a pilot and get after the mission? Because that's what I really wanted to do, get after mission, whatever that looks like. I thought the sticks was an opportunity. They had said no to me, that's fine. And then I had an amazing friend reach out. He goes, “Hey, I heard you're getting a little long winded out there at EC-130s. You should put an application in for the U-2.” And I was like, “What are you talking about? I have no jet experience, other than the T-1. I don't have that background to be that type of caliber pilot.” He goes, “Nope, nope. They're looking for good guys and girls. They're looking for those who are motivated to do the mission. And if you could fly, you can fly, if you can't, well, you know, they'll figure that out, and they'll send you home.” And I was like, “OK.” And so I submitted for the U-2, put my application in, they call me out, and it's a two-week interview. The first week they have you in service dress, and you meet all the leadership, and you meet all the other pilots, and just have conversations. That's all, they just wanna get to know you. You know, “What's your true motivation for being here?” And I explained it, just like I've explained to you: “I wanna fly. I wanna do the mission. I wanna be a pilot's pilot. I wanna do all the cool stuff.” And they go, “OK.” Well, week two, they put you in U-2, a two-seater. They have two-seater trainers. They put you in a U-2. They give you all the weekend prior to study, and they say, “Cool, let's see what you got.” And they have an instructor, he instructs, he does his best to give you tidbits on how to safely land the U-2. And you have three days. You have two training flights and then a sort of assessment evaluation flight on that third day, and oh my gosh, did I ever humble myself as a pilot when I realized how horrible I truly was. I felt like I could not land the U-2 safely. I felt like I was messing everything up. I felt like— as soon as we got done with that third day of flying, and we got back into the squadron, and I remember the IP just being like, and then, you know, walks away because they have to talk to the squadron commanders. They have to go talk to the other leadership there. And once again, I find myself like, “OK, I 100% failed. I mean, I gave it my best. I gave it everything I had. But, you know, here I am gonna fall short again.” And they do this. And I realized this afterwards, that they do this, they do that like wait game, you know, they keep you in suspense for a reason. And I waited, it felt like hours and hours and hours. I imagine it probably might only be like hour, hour and a half. And a squadron commander called me in. He goes, “Yeah, the IP definitely didn't like some of this, some of these, these type of landings, some of this airmanship you're showing. I didn't really like this. But overall, he says you're a nice enough guy, so do you want the job?” And I was like, “Whoa.” And it blew my mind. And that was awesome. That was awesome because once again, leading up to that moment, it was the support of my friend who reached out. It was the support of my wife being like, “Yeah, I think you can do this.” And I had even called, my parents were like, “I had this opportunity to fly this really unique aircraft. It's going to be challenging. What do y'all think?” They're like, “Hey, we love you. Go get it.” And I was like, no other words of advice, no other like, inspiring — you know, my dad, a Florida farm man, was just like, “No, I think he'll do fine. We love you and just let us know how it goes.” I was like, man, I'm really missing out in motivational speeches. But you know what? The sentiment is there, and that's all I need. So I got that position, did a few years with the U-2. And then towards the end of the U-2 career, I got word from another friend saying the 6th Special Operations Squadron is growing. “We are looking for readily qualified and experienced people.”   Naviere Walkewicz And this is the one that rejected you.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yes, ma'am, I got rejected last time. He goes, “It's OK. Put in another application. You know, you're a little more experienced now, you've got a little bit more under your belt.” And I said, “OK,” and I put in an application, it got rejected again, and here I am, like, “What is going on?” My buddy reached out to me—   Naviere Walkewicz Your name is blacklisted in that group across the board. Like, “Oh, there's that Mount guy. Cross it out.”   Lt. Col. Steven Mount But I think that ended up being somewhat of a blessing. It was like, “Wow, This guy is motivated to come out here.” Because they had seen the last application years ago. They'd seen this one. And I think the word finally got around that's like, “Hey, he's actually really motivated to come try out, at least for this mission.” And so once again, from good mentors, they're like, “Go ahead, try it out. Put the application in one more time, see what happens.” I did, got picked up for assessment selection. It's another week, week and a half interview. They challenge you mentally, they challenge you physically. They put you in situations to see how you react. I don't wanna give too much away for that process, even though, you know, unfortunately that process is not there anymore. But after that grueling week, they once again, here I am in front of another squadron commander, and here they are opening my life in front of them, and they're saying, “Well, we don't like this. We definitely don't like this. Tell us a little more about this,” you know. And that was about an hour interview, sit down, and it's not just the squadron commander. It was leadership — four or five individuals. It was an Army lieutenant colonel's flight doc behind them, you know, kind of doing that very watching, waiting, assessing, and another one of the situations, I'm like, oh, “Here we go. I don't think it's gonna happen.” But then at the end of that interview, they sit down, squadron commander stands up and goes, “Welcome to the 6th.” And the only things I can think of — and I know a lot of listeners or viewers out there do the same thing, and I tell this to my young when they get their wings, I tell them this as well — think of that first person, or persons, that when something amazing happens to you, you immediately reach out to them and you tell them, “Thank you for the support, thank you for the love, thank you for believing in me when others didn't.” And that's exactly what I did after that one. I called my wife, and I called my parents. I said, “It happened. We got it. I got it,” you know, because it wasn't just me, and I know those experiences going from one mission to the next, and those setbacks have— I get to share these stories all the time with these young instructor pilots that I'm with, as well as students, because I get to utilize it as a leadership tool to be like, “Don't give up on yourself. That's first and foremost. And then even if you believe you might give up on yourself, trust me, there's someone like me or your family members or your squadmates, they won't give up on you. And just remember that.” And that's why I get to share these stories throughout my career, of like, “Hey, I failed at this. Look where I'm at now, because I had the support and because I kept going, Hey, I failed at this. Look how it played out. I'm here.” So a lot of my transition from different platforms and different experiences has helped shape that leadership side of me to say, simply put, “It's OK to fail, all right?” I mean, you're never going to succeed if you have this tried and failed a couple times, right? So, right,   Naviere Walkewicz Wow. Well, I want to go into— because you've mentioned this a couple times. We've talked about your parents, but you know, to have a career that's successful and to navigate that, you talked about your wife. So I'm curious if you can share with listeners who have to maybe the word is not choose between. But how do you navigate the importance of your marriage and that relationship with your profession, and trying to succeed in that trajectory, whatever that trajectory is for you. So maybe you can talk a little bit about how that, how that worked throughout all of those transitions.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Oh, OK. I usually do better at this from a better half nearby, which she is, in a sense. She's trying to work out and give me her working space right now, which I love. I'm gonna start with this. It's not easy. It is work. It is reps, the day in, the day out. It's not easy. I don't believe I've ever had a convo with someone when they're trying to balance the work and family life to where it's like, “Oh, that was easy, you know, I just do this and they do this, and we're good to go.” No, it is constant conflict of schedules. It is sharing what's going on. It's the ups and downs. So I'd like to start with that: It's not easy. And if anyone ever tells you it is easy, please ask them how they're doing it, and then spread their wise words of wisdom to all of us. Because that's probably the first thing: It's not easy. Once you recognize that you can get past understanding like, “OK, I'm not alone in this, that this is not easy, and I can start talking and sharing my experiences and seeing from those who seem to have it together. What are they doing to make it work? So I start there. It's not easy. Second, you have to be a team. I think there's a lot of us that think that, and my wife definitely did initially, and that was on me, that she thought that my career was the most important, that what I did and how I executed the mission and where I was going, that that was the No. 1 priority. And I found it that's not the case. I found that's not the case, because, sure, when we didn't have kids yet, and we were in Tucson, it's a little easier, because I would go on my deployments, and she would go to the job, she would go to work, and she had and she supported that, because I was out there, you know, fighting the good fight, accomplishing a mission, doing everything the Air Force needed me to do. And that's what she knew was important for me. So she supported that through and throughout, and she supported it to where I imagined, to the sense of she didn't feel like she could speak to say things that maybe I would like in the sense of me doing my mission, or coming home from Afghanistan with some of my experiences. Ahe felt that maybe sometimes, that she didn't have a word to convey to like, “Hey, this really scared me.” Or, “Hey, when you were gone, I saw the news and I was frightened. And you know, when I saw this happen, I just wanted to reach out to you, and I just want to make sure you're OK.” And she never felt initially like that she could convey those feelings, because it might affect me. It might affect my, you know, mentality while being overseas and down range. So she held that in, she held it in. She kept strong. She put on the “I'm here to support you” and I feel bad, you know, thinking back on that, that I should have given her the space to like, “Tell me what you're feeling. Tell me what you're going through. I don't want you to, I don't want you to struggle in silence. If you know you see something or there's something that scares you, let me know.” And unfortunately, I didn't learn that lesson until way, way later in my career, because she'd always kept that strength in and even when we started having kids, she still did. I kick myself all the time now that— we got to California, in the U-2s, we had an incident down range to where they needed me to bump up my deployment out there, to get out there to take care of the situation. And I'd asked, I was like, “Well, how much sooner do you need me?” Because we had just had our first son. You know, the dynamic's changing. The family dynamic is changing, and especially with your first born. And they said, “We need you to leave in about a week.” Here I was once again. And I know we have kind of kind of mentioned that I was I was in the mean mentality I was in. I was gonna be a pilot's pilot. I was gonna get the mission done. I was going to do everything I could to prove myself, and if my country needs me to be out there in a week to take care of this mission, that my family and my wife will understand. And that was that was not the way I should look at it. It really wasn't. But because I was not seeing her as a teammate, and she held it in — and thank goodness we had her mother-in-law. We had some family come out and support with a new baby. But I could tell that was one of the first times to where looking back on it now that maybe I could have said, “Can you find someone else?” You know, maybe I should have what I'm doing, hopefully you're doing now and teaching others. You have to balance that family with mission and the prioritize what is truly important at that moment. And that's something I failed to do at that time. It would happen again later on, but thankfully— so when I got to the 6th Special Operations Squadron, and at this time, especially after we had our second child in California, the wife had mentioned more. She started coming out of the shell like, “Hey, I do need you a little bit more now. I need you, and I need to be able to express and convey what I do and don't like.” And I was listening, but I was not listening the way she needed me to listen. I was not being that teammate on my side. So I heard, “Hey, I just need more support with the family. So whatever career decision we make next, let's align that.” And I was in my head, I was like, “Yes, you're absolutely right.” That's why the 6th Special Operations Squadron, when I got that interview and I picked up, it was so important, because I had family in that area, and family could get to us easier. So I was thinking, “Awesome. I have the support system for you there. I got the assignment. You're going to be taken care of.” I can tell that's not yet what she was wanting. And I will credit good old Col. Valentino. I was spinning up to go to Lebanon with the team, and we're about to have our third child. And here I was once again, like, “Yep, gotta get back to the mission. Gotta show my value. Gotta get in there, do it.” And the wife understands. We have two kids already. We're gonna have a third. So we've already had two. We kind of know how this goes. We're good to go. But I could tell, once again, looking back, everything's— that she wasn't happy, but she was ready to put up that wall again, to be like, “OK, I have to support him. Have to support what he does, and I have to, because that's what the military is asking me. That's what this new community…” And then Col Valentino, he came down. He goes, “Hey, are you about to have another child?” And I was like, “Yes, sir.” He goes, “When?” And I gave him the date. And he goes, “Your deployment date is like, a month after that.” I was like, “Yes, sir. This is our third child. We'll be good to go. I have the support system for the wife now, and she'll be taken care of. Good to go.” And he goes, “No, you're staying home. I don't need you.” He goes, “Did you want to ask me if there's anyone else wants to go so you can be there for your wife and your family?” And that blew my mind, that just, I don't know. It came out of nowhere for someone in a leadership role to say, “No, I'm not gonna send you on this deployment. I want you to be there with your family.” And that held in tight, and from then on, everything changed, and how I led and how I would push the mission. But I wouldn't do it to the extent of, could I not help someone balance their family life with their mission? And that took too long for me to realize. So what I say to everyone out there, it's not easy, but you come home from a long day and you're mentally exhausted and the mission is not going good, or you're getting ready for deployment, take a moment, sit down and just talk with your teammate at home. You have to look at it as teammates. They are your partner. They will be just like I mentioned before. They will be your support system through thick and thin, because they've probably seen you at your worst, and they want you to be at your best. But you can't do that unless you take care of that home front and treat them as your teammate. Because I am still, to this day, trying my best to become the man that I hope that she sees in me and that she wants me to be one day, but I had to fail in seeing it back then so that could see it now. And I think that's one of these things I want to convey. Not easy, and they have to be your teammates.   Naviere Walkewicz Thank you for sharing that. And I think to have a leader that showed you that, which is, now you've imprinted that in your leadership style. You're thinking about the airmen that you come across and how to help them navigate some of those tough choices, but doing it with a, you know, a bigger view of not just the mission, but, like, how do you fit in that with your family? I think that's so powerful, and I'm really glad you shared that, because I know that some of our listeners and our viewers, that's gonna resonate with them as well, because they're gonna remember a time when, “Wow, I didn't even ask if I didn't have to go, or if I didn't have to do this, just because I'm so used to jumping when you say, jump,” right? And I think sometimes it's OK. It's OK. Just a question, like, I'm willing and ready to jump. I just want to make sure is someone else able to do it too because of these reasons, right? So I love that you share that.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount And those leaders have to know their people enough in that regard to also know because ultimately, when you get the mission, then yes, that's what we signed up for, yes. But those leaders know their people, and they know what situation they're in. For example, there's a few times in Special Operations to where we're going on another deployment. But we knew our people, and we knew that some did not have the balance at home, and things were not looking the best they could. “Hey, we can help you out. We can give you all the resources you need. We don't need you on this deployment.” But that takes good leaders, recognizing and taking care of their people and understanding that these individuals cannot be effective down range or where they go if their home life is not taken care of. So, I know that is something that's been talked about for all my leadership training for all the years, but actually applying it is going to start with our future leaders coming up to realize, know your people, know where you can take care of them so that they can take care of the mission.   Naviere Walkewicz That's right. That's right. So this has been incredible. I think the underlying lesson that you shared with us is, obviously having belief in yourself and doing the work and proving your worth, so to speak. But I think it's also recognizing that support network. So if I may ask, you, I have two questions. The first one is, what are you doing to be a better leader every day? Yourself, like, what is something you are actually doing to be a better leader?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Oh my gosh. Well, I'm recognizing I know I'm not doing it right. Knowing that I'm about taking command already has the underlying nervousness and anxiety, and I realized taking command, why I have these emotions is because I'm afraid to fail, which that makes sense. That makes sense to any logical human being out there. That's like, yeah, I get that. But I have to realize, in that same token, it's OK to fail. It's OK to make mistakes. It's OK that some days you go in there, you're not gonna get it all right. This last year as a director of operations, I've walked out of that building, and there's days been like I didn't accomplish anything. I've messed things up. I didn't do this right. Why am I here? They could have found someone better. And then there were days where, like, yes, I did it, right? I got something accomplished. And on those days, I realized it's because I was taking care of the people and people's needs. And once again, when that happened, they were able to take care of the mission. And that's one of the things that every day I go into work and I ask myself, “Who can I help out? Who needs the motivational kick? Who needs someone to just talk with them? Who needs to share their story?” Because that's what leaders, ultimately, are. We take care of the people. And if I can go in there and just help one person every single day, I would like to think that that's a small success. So that's one thing I'm constantly working on. And it is an effort. It's not easy. It's not easy because you are taking so much and leaders, I don't care what level you're on, all the way from your very first flight command, all the way to your mission command, aircraft commander, all the way to where I am now. You're going to take a lot on your shoulders. You're going to bear, you know, the burden of others, pains, their grief, their successes, their failures. So I guess that's also answer that question. Get ready for that. OK? Because a good leader will do that. They will bear they will help hold the weight. They will support those who need it the most. And we got to do it day in, day out, the reps they have to. So I think I answered the first question, I apologize, was it was.   Naviere Walkewicz The second question is coming. So you're good, you're good. OK. What's something that you know now after having your 17-plus years in the in the military, but also just your life experience — but what's something you know now that you would share with a leader to kind of shorten that timeframe of, like learning those painful things to be better, right? So what would be something you'd share?   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Something I'd share to close that learning gap? Because once again, my call sign is Meathead— I learned lessons the hard way. Do your best to listen more than you talk. Do your best to just take the experiences of others, talk to others, but just listen. Just hear them. Just hear them. I believe that a lot of the things that I could have prevented may have already been told to me, or may have already been, you know, mentored to me, but I just didn't listen. Maybe they said something and “I was like, well, that doesn't jive with being cool or being a pilot, so I'm not gonna listen to that.” I'm pretty sure all of these lessons that hopefully either conveying or passing on, in a sense, I think I learned them early on. I just, I just didn't listen. So for all the leaders out there, do your best to listen, listen more than you talk. It will be wonders. Naviere Walkewicz Oh my gosh, that's just outstanding. And I what I really appreciate about that is, you know, you talked about how you're doing things to get better every day, but even just in the moment, you recognize like that's such an important piece of that is taking the time to listen and reflect so that you can actually really pick up on those cues, maybe, that someone needs your support. So yes, well, this has been incredible. As we wrap up today's episode, I keep coming back to something you said, which was all someone needs to do is just support you. Yeah. So here's the takeaway, leadership is found in how we show up for our people and how we believe in them, and how we remind them that they are capable for more than what they think they are. The question we can always ask ourselves today is, who needs me to believe in them right now? And you actually said that really well. So Col. Mount, I just want to thank you for joining us for this episode of Long Blue Leadership. Is there anything else you want to leave with our listeners today? Lt. Col. Steven Mount Yes. I don't think I'll ever be that leader that does one great act, and everyone's like, that's a great leader. I don't think I'll ever be that leader that gives like, one great speech, like, that's it. He nailed it. He's a great leader. No, if I'm gonna leave something with all of those you know at the Academy and the leaders in the Air Force now — which, by the way, thanks all of you. Me too, man, thank you for your service. You have no idea how much the world needs us right now, so you get out there and see it. So sorry. That was an aside. But thank you to everyone who's at the Academy now, who have served, whose families have served and will continue to serve. But one thing I'll leave to all those young leaders: Your leadership is defined by the acts, the million acts every day, not just by one act, not just by, like I said, not just by one amazing thing that you do. It's defined on you being there, and a million acts per day over a lifetime of your career, of showing up, showing that you care. That's huge, showing that you're fair and consistent. And they will see that your people will see that that those million acts day in day out, of how you treat them, and how you present yourself as a leader. And they will watch. They will watch, and if they can see that you care, and if they can see that you are doing those million acts day in, day out, and you're in there and you're in the grind and you're in the mud with them, they will give you everything, they will, and it's amazing to see, it really is, but that starts with you as the leader. So yeah, that's it, it's those million acts every day of a lifetime career that shows that you're a leader.   Naviere Walkewicz Well, we are so glad that you're out there leading and influencing so many. We're grateful for all of your years and more that you will do. Thank you so much.   Lt. Col. Steven Mount Thank you so much for the opportunity. I really, really enjoyed this. Thank you.   Naviere Walkewicz Good. Thank you for joining us for this edition of Long Blue Leadership. The podcast drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on all your favorite podcast apps. Send your comments and guest ideas to us at socialmedia@usafa.org, and listen to past episodes at longblueleadership.org.   KEYWORDS Leadership, Resilience, Mentorship, Adoption / Family Foundation, Support Network, Perseverance, Tough Conversations, Mission & Family Balance, Trust, Listening       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation      

In this episode, Gabby Reece explores the intricacies of Hashimoto's disease and thyroid health with McCall McPherson, founder of the Modern Thyroid Clinic. McPherson shares her personal health journey, unveiling how her relentless research and determination transformed her life and led her to become an advocate for thyroid health. They discuss the importance of comprehensive thyroid panels, optimal treatment approaches, lifestyle changes, dietary considerations, and the impact of stress and trauma on autoimmune diseases. Additionally, McPherson highlights innovative treatments, including microdosing GLP-1 medications, stem cell research and various wellness practices like intermittent fasting and red light therapy. The episode aims to empower listeners with actionable insights to manage and understand thyroid health better. For more on Gabby Instagram @GabbyReece: https://www.instagram.com/gabbyreece/ TikTok @GabbyReeceOfficial https://www.tiktok.com/@gabbyreeceofficial The Gabby Reece Show Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GabbyReece  The Gabby Reece Show podcast is Produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) Thank You to Our Sponsors Vionic - Use the code GABBY at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. One-time use only. Timeline - My friends at Timeline are offering 20% off, just for my listeners. Head to timeline.com/gabby to get started. OneSkin - For a limited time, you can try OneSkin with 15% off using code REECE at oneskin.co Laird Superfood - High-quality ingredients paired with incredible taste. Use the code GABBY20 for 20% off your purchase at lairdsuperfood.com Mentioned in This Episode: Official Website for McCall McPherson, PA-C https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/  McCall McPherson's Optimal Thyroid Lab Reference Points  https://static1.squarespace.com/static/53ea1597e4b04873e279ec10/t/5c4e8c7570a6ad6d2acf913e/1548651638025/Thyroid+Labs.pdf What is Hashimoto's Disease? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hashimotos-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20351855 Inflammatory Foods To Avoid with Hashimoto's Disease https://www.baptisthealth.com/blog/family-health/hashimoto-s-thyroiditis-diet-best-worst-food-list  NuCalm App https://nucalm.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Hashimoto's and Autoimmune Diseases 00:36 Guest Introduction and Personal Journey 03:21 Thyroid Health and Modern Medicine 07:23 Understanding Thyroid Function and Misdiagnosis 09:00 Thyroid Testing and Self-Advocacy 13:06 Impact of Lifestyle on Thyroid Health 39:34 Pregnancy and Thyroid Health 46:14 Understanding Food Sensitivities 47:17 The Importance of Movement for Thyroid Health 50:34 Effective Supplements for Thyroid Health 54:02 Managing Stress and Its Impact on Thyroid 56:06 Reducing Toxic Load for Better Health 57:51 The Benefits and Risks of Sauna and Ice Baths 01:02:13 Exploring GLP-1 for Thyroid and Overall Health 01:09:29 Personal Insights and Practical Tips 01:12:39 Balancing Family and Professional Life 01:18:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating Health and Wellness: From Family Legacy to Microplastic Detox with Dan PowersUtzy Naturals SiteAuthentic Health Use Promo Code JASONIn this episode of The Healthy CEO, host Jason Wright welcomes Dan Powers, founder of Utzy Health. They dive into Dan's background, growing up steeped in the nutraceutical and biohacking space, thanks to his family's legacy in the supplement industry through Ortho Molecular. Dan discusses the evolution of his company, Utzy Health, its mission to provide top-tier supplements directly to consumers, and the innovative approach they've taken in product development, including the world's first microplastics detox product. The conversation also explores Dan's personal wellness routine, his reading interests, the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurial responsibilities, and practical advice for young fathers striving to maintain both personal and professional harmony. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in supplements, holistic health, and managing a balanced life.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:46 Family Legacy in Nutraceuticals03:55 Founding of Etsy Naturals06:01 Misconceptions About Supplements10:16 Quality and Sourcing of Ingredients12:14 Creatine: Myths and Facts17:47 Launching Etsy's First Product Line21:58 Environmental Toxins and Health Challenges30:38 Herbal Medicine and Its Benefits36:10 Discussing Rhodiola and Its Benefits36:40 Herbs for Better Sleep40:46 Exploring Berberine: The Poor Man's Ozempic43:27 Daily Routines and Philosophical Reads53:58 Balancing Family and Career01:00:35 Innovative Microplastics Detox Product01:04:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ready to conquer your entrepreneurial fears and take the leap into success? In this episode of the Command Your Brand Show, we sit down with Frank Sell, a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience, to uncover the secrets of building a business from scratch. From his humble beginnings as a welder to launching his own ventures, Frank shares his incredible journey, practical advice, and the mindset shifts that helped him turn obstacles into opportunities. Discover how to "Do It Scared" and develop the confidence to build your business empire—whether it's starting your own podcast, launching a new venture, or leveling up your personal brand. Learn actionable strategies like targeting the right audience, creating lasting relationships, and balancing family and entrepreneurship. Frank also shares his unique five-step process for getting things done and how a simple $100 investment changed everything.If you're ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind, command your brand, and build the life you've always wanted, this episode is packed with the insights and motivation you need to get started. Don't let fear hold you back—take action today!

In this episode of the Daughter Podcast, Oscar has a conversation with Stetzen Fleming, founder of the Girl Dad Initiative. Stetzen shares his experiences and wisdom on fatherhood, particularly focusing on being a father to daughters. He discusses the importance of being intentional, present, and connected as a dad. The conversation covers a range of topics including the challenges of raising daughters, building influence, and the importance of emotional connection and support. Stetzen also shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for other 'girl dads' striving to be the best fathers they can be. The episode emphasizes the critical role fathers play in their daughters' lives and the lifelong impact they can have through intentional actions and behaviors, and it gets into the creation and growth of the Girl Dad Initiative, a community aiming to support and encourage dads in their fatherhood journey. The Girl Dad Initiative Facebook Girl Dad Initiative Instagram Daughteredpodcast.com Oscar on Instagram Few Will Hunt. 10% OFF use GIRLDAD 00:00 Introduction to the Daughter Podcast 00:23 Meet Stetzen Fleming: Founder of the Girl Dad Initiative 01:07 Fatherhood Journeys: Oscar and Stetzen Share Their Stories 02:22 The Girl Dad Initiative: Inspiration and Community 04:47 The Impact of Intentional Fatherhood 06:33 Balancing Family and Personal Growth 08:11 Creating Lasting Memories with Your Daughters 10:57 The Role of a Father: Beyond Provision 19:04 The Role of Fathers in the Digital Age 19:51 The Importance of Being Present and Intentional 21:15 Building Influence in Your Daughter's Life 25:51 The Power of Compliments Beyond Physical Appearance 28:00 The Impact of Hypocrisy on Father-Daughter Relationships 30:03 The Grow Dad Initiative: Building a Supportive Community 36:10 Balancing Safety Concerns and Freedom for Daughters 40:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Girl Dads   Guest Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, any organizations, companies, or institutions mentioned, or corporate entities represented by the host. Our aim is to provide a platform for diverse perspectives and open dialogue. While we strive for accuracy and balance, it's important to recognize that opinions may vary. We encourage critical thinking and further exploration of the topics discussed.

In this episode, hosts Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer engage with guest Dena Gregory, who shares her journey in direct sales while managing the challenges of being a military family. Dena discusses how she balances her business with family life, the importance of customer care, and the role of community in her success. She emphasizes the flexibility of direct sales, the significance of personal connections, and strategies for maintaining consistency in business. Dena also reflects on her most rewarding moments and offers insights for others in similar situations.Takeaways:Dena started her direct sales journey unexpectedly after attending an online event.Being a military family allows Dena to expand her network frequently.Social media is a key tool for Dena's business success.Dena emphasizes the importance of personal connections with customers.She has moved four times in five years, adapting her business each time.Dena balances family responsibilities with her business through intentional planning.She prefers genuine communication over automation in her business.Community support is crucial for overcoming challenges in direct sales.Dena encourages others to evaluate what they can say no to for better focus.Her most memorable moment was earning her first incentive trip.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Direct Sales Journey02:32 Navigating Life as a Military Family05:35 Tools and Systems for Business Management07:37 Balancing Family and Business12:28 Customer Care and Communication Strategies16:54 Overcoming Challenges in Direct Sales22:53 The Importance of Community25:21 Finding Consistency in Business28:48 Memorable Moments in Direct Sales31:15 Introduction and Gratitude31:44 Engagement and Community BuildingFind Dena online @ denasathomespa.comThank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don't forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.Interested in being a guest? Share your story hereFind Lisa on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.comGrab your ChatGPT Freebie hereFind Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.comGrab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet hereDisclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

What happens when you refuse to choose between your passions, your family, and your career? Laura King has built a life where all three thrive. As a professional gravel cyclist, mother of two, and CMO at Parity Sport, she's redefining what's possible for women in sports. In this episode, she shares her journey from endurance racing to leading a women's activewear brand, the lessons she's learned from cycling through pregnancy, and how she and her husband balance adventure, parenting, and business. We talk about breaking barriers in male-dominated sports, the power of female mentorship, designing a life on your own terms, and finding joy in pushing past fear. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or someone seeking the courage to chase big goals, this conversation will leave you inspired to ride toward your own version of success. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Parody Sport and Laura King 01:18 Meet Laura King: A Multifaceted Athlete 03:08 The Rise of Gravel Cycling 06:00 Balancing Motherhood and Cycling 10:31 Endurance Sports and Personal Growth 18:39 Empowering Women Through Sport 26:21 Women Empowering Women in Cycling 27:09 Balancing Family and Athletic Life 29:28 Support Systems and Childcare 32:00 Living a Full and Balanced Life 35:32 The Power of Community and Environment 38:29 Defining Powerful Women 43:36 Reflections on Powerful Women and Personal Growth 51:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a textNavigating Mental Health, Relationships, and Torah Values with The Orthodox TherapistIn this episode, we delve into adult topics on mental health, relationships, and intimacy with Lauren Hofstadter, known as The Orthodox Therapist. Lauren, a licensed mental health counselor, wife, and mother of 10, shares her blend of cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused techniques, all within a personalized concierge model that is respectful of Torah values. Currently pursuing a PhD in sexology, she discusses the challenges and intersections of religious life and mental health. The episode also explores the importance of communication, the concept of family purity, and the spiritual significance of the mikvah. Sponsored by David's Cruise Line, this conversation offers a faith-sensitive approach to building resilient, spiritually grounded, and deeply connected lives.EPISODE SPONSORSDAVID'S CRUISE LINEThis episode is generously sponsored by David's Cruise Line: Enjoy the Magic of CruisesDavid Cruise invites you to sail the seas of the world.Experience unforgettable adventures while staying true to your Jewish values, with our private Glatt Kosher restaurant led by a dedicated chef, and a fully equipped onboard synagogue.Just relax — we've got everything covered.Each day brings a new country or city to explore, with no planning or stress.Enjoy extraordinary moments close to nature, in untouched destinations that blend dreamlike beauty with authenticity.An incredible sense of freedom awaits you in front of the Divine vastness of the sea!Visit https://www.davidcruise.com/?lang=en to learn more and get in touch!GUEST BIOLauren Hofstatter is a mother, wife, and dedicated member of the Orthodox Jewish community who brings firsthand understanding and empathy to her faith-based mental health practice. With both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in counseling and certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and ADHD Clinical Services, she's also a PhD candidate in Clinical Sexology — blending academic rigor with deep spiritual insights.Lauren's mission is to offer Orthodox Jewish therapy and faith-aligned coaching that truly honors both emotional wellness and religious values She provides a safe, culturally sensitive space for women and couples to explore emotional disconnection, intimacy challenges, and the weight of spiritual obligations — all within the framework of halacha.Visit Lauren's website here: https://www.orthodoxtherapist.com/And her Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/theorthodoxtherapist/CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction 06:32 Tackling Difficult Conversations07:48 Balancing Family and Professional Life14:21 Communication and Relationship Dynamics16:49 Challenges in Intimacy and Seeking Help28:54 Parenting and Educating Children on Sensitive Topics34:20 Media Influence on Relationships34:44 Anonymous Questions on Social Media36:36 Open RelationshCOMMUNITYJoin the Community! Connect with us on socials to discuss Episode 101, share insights, and continue the conversations you want to have:

Discover how conscious living guide Debra Graugnard built a thriving remote business while caring for her 102-year-old father for 8 years. In this powerful conversation, she reveals the feminine leadership principles that transform both business and life, shares hard-won lessons from expensive coaching mistakes, and proves that family-first entrepreneurs can create sustainable impact and income. Key takeaways: Why authentic leadership attracts better clients and opportunities The costly coaching program mistakes that drain resources without results How to honor your values while building a profitable business Practical strategies for balancing caregiving responsibilities with business growth Perfect for coaches, consultants, and transformation experts who refuse to choose between family devotion and business success. Join The Live Well Earn Well Mastermind™ Today: https://livewellearnwellmastermind.com/    Let's hop on a quick Zoom call so I can focus on your business and offer my help: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0tdO2urTooHNLQuGo9wdTbJHJcjXoghF8N#/registration  Oh yeah, and please join free Facebook community here: Heartrepreneurs.com   Want More!? Subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast platform… Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-well-earn-well-for-coaches-consultants/id1585895518  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OjsOxN7MqwKio4Ae6vSMQ  Or anywhere else podcasts are found!    Watch all the episodes and more to gain more insight on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@coachterri/videos

Marta, an actress and filmmaker, shares her experiences balancing motherhood and a career in the entertainment industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities she's encountered. She reflects on her journey from acting to creating her own content, including a feature film and web series, while navigating the complexities of pregnancy and parenting in Hollywood. Throughout the conversation, Marta emphasizes the importance of support networks, self-reflection, and pursuing personal goals as a parent, while also touching on industry changes and her evolving definition of success.00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges02:12 Life as a Parent in LA06:03 Journey into Acting and Early Career09:53 Navigating Motherhood and Career16:58 The Impact of Motherhood on Career24:11 Creating Opportunities in a Changing Industry31:28 The Journey of Filmmaking as a Mother34:51 Balancing Family and Creative Pursuits38:32 The Importance of Support Systems42:29 Navigating Anxiety and Success45:41 Redefining Success in Motherhood49:53 Embracing New Opportunities54:54 The Power of Connection and Mentorship58:16 Debunking Myths About Actor Moms01:03:16 Children and the Acting Industry01:03:45 Current Life Savers and Self-Care

When life doesn't go as planned, how do you keep going — and still find joy along the way? In this moving conversation, pediatrician, rare disease advocate, and author Dr. Tasha Faruki joins me to share her extraordinary journey as a mother navigating her daughter's complex medical needs. From the first whispers that something was different, to the raw reality of “failure to thrive,” to redefining joy through Make-A-Wish surfboards in Hawaii, Dr. Tasha's story is one of grit, surrender, and radical love. We talk about: Trusting your instincts when everyone says “don't worry” Letting go of the plan you thought your life would follow Siblings, family repair, and the unspoken challenges behind the scenes The power of asking “Why not?” instead of “Why me?” Living by the family motto: Suck the joy out of life Some quotes from the episode: "Our children carry the medicine we need." "I had to stop waiting for joy to fall into my lap and start intentionally finding it." "It's incredibly brutal and it's incredibly beautiful — and both can be true."

Welcome Keyser, West Virginia native Donnie Marple! Donnie is best known as the full-time drummer for American country music singer and songwriter Lee Brice. He's also the 2007 Champion of the storied Guitar Center Drum-Off.Starting from his early love for drumming inspired by his musical family and church, Donnie describes his rise through the competitive ranks, from local area competitions to competing nationally in the Guitar Center Drum-Off and eventually performing a solo at the prestigious Buddy Rich Memorial Concert - where he would share the stage with legends like Neil Peart and Chad Smith. Donnie discusses the evolution of his career with Lee Brice, his continual efforts to improve, and his experience balancing fatherhood with a demanding touring schedule. He also reflects on his passion for golf and reading, and offers insights into overcoming overthinking and focusing on mental health. The episode wraps as Donnie emphasizes the importance of humility, gratitude, and balancing professional success with personal fulfillment. We hope you enjoy!Chapters:0:00 Intro2:08 Welcome, Donnie! 3:42 Lee Brice Audition 18:50 Mental Health and Overcoming Challenges 28:53 Golf and Drumming: Finding Balance 31:55 Learning from Other Drummers 37:14 Drum Box (Sponsor) 37:57 Early Beginnings 43:36 Guitar Center Drum-Off 57:19 Low Boy Beaters (Sponsor) 58:38 Buddy Rich Memorial Concert 1:07:10 Reflecting & Inspiring the Next Generation 1:10:35 Drum Supply (Sponsor) 1:18:08 Gear Talk and Endorsements 1:24:31 Sonique Drums (Sponsor) 1:28:43 Balancing Family and Career 1:30:50 OutroThank you to our Episode Sponsors:Drum Boxhttps://drumbox.spaceDrum Supplyhttps://www.drumsupply.comLow Boy Beatershttps://lowboybeaters.comGroove MPLhttps://www.groovempl.comSonique Drumshttps://soniquedrums.comConnect with Donnie:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnie_marpleYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/donniemarpleWebsite: https://donniemarple.comMusic Featured in this Episode:"Soul" - Lee Brice"Rumor" - Lee BriceSupport the showConnect with us:WebsiteInstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookRecorded at Garden Groove Recording Space, Nashville, TNPodcast Artwork: GENUINE CREATIVE ART ⓒ 2025 Nashville Drummers Podcast, LLC

In this special 40th Anniversary episode of the Service Evolution podcast, Jim Robinson takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through his entrepreneurial story and the founding of CGP. Starting from humble beginnings, Jim recounts how as a child, necessity drove him to learn hands-on repair skills that ultimately shaped his destiny. By the age of twelve, he had the vision to lead a company, long before fully understanding what that meant. Over the years, Jim's relentless belief in serving others and fixing anything laid the groundwork for CGP's unique approach and lasting impact in the facilities services industry.Jim discusses the evolution of the business, from early days without any competition, through significant growth, and ultimately to building long-term relationships with major clients. He shares the importance of carefully choosing which clients to work with, prioritizing core values like respect, service, and mentoring both employees and customers. CGP's culture revolves around serving others as you would your great-grandmother, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, and nurturing leadership from within the organization.Reflecting on four decades of leadership, Jim emphasizes the importance of building a diverse team that learns and grows together. He explains his vision of legacy, developing future leaders who will eventually take the reins. Jim also offers candid advice about the myth of work-life balance, acknowledging the sacrifices involved and encouraging intentional presence with both family and career. This episode is a rich, inspiring testament to building a values-driven business with generational impact!Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(04:52) Strategic Growth Through Market Change(08:22) CGP's Core Philosophy: Serve with Respect(12:22) Building a Legacy of Leaders(14:57) Balancing Family and Career SacrificesLinksJim Robinson CGP Maintenance and Construction Services

Have you ever wondered how to talk to your kids about justice in a way that's rooted in Scripture and lived out with compassion? This week's conversation is one that will both equip and encourage you. I'm joined by Elisa Johnston and we're talking all about raising kids who care deeply about others and live out their faith in practical ways.This episode isn't about having all the answers, it's about taking small, faithful steps toward raising kids who see the needs of the world and respond with the love of Jesus.Here are four key takeaways from our conversation:How to help your kids develop compassion that leads to actionWhy biblical justice starts with seeing others the way God doesPractical ideas for making justice part of your family's daily rhythmsHow to guide kids through cultural conversations with truth and graceElisa is a mom of four, a passionate justice advocate, and the author of Justice-Minded Kids: Bite-Size Challenges to Empower Kids to Practice Justice, Compassion, and Love. Through her writing and work, she helps families build a lifestyle of justice that starts at home and extends into the world. Her work invites parents and kids alike to walk humbly, love deeply, and live boldly in their faith.Whether you're just beginning this journey or have been in it for a while, I hope this episode gives you the tools and encouragement you need to keep going.00:00 Introduction and Background02:57 Balancing Family and Work06:13 Raising Justice-Minded Kids09:09 Understanding Justice in a Biblical Context11:57 Practical Steps for Families15:07 The Kindness Quest Challenge17:57 Navigating Challenges in Kindness Initiatives19:15 Teaching Kids to Respond to Injustice25:15 Equipping Parents for Justice-Minded Parenting29:01 Practical Lessons for Raising Justice-Minded Kids33:01 Encouragement for Parents on the JourneyConnect with Elisa:InstagramWebsiteResources Mentioned:Justice Minded Kids bookClear Focus Bible for KidsA Great Cloud of Witnesses prayer journalChristian Parenting resourcesSchool SimplifiedThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code CPPODCAST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The Rachel Hollis Podcast, Rach shares an in-depth update on her current life events, including the challenges of remodeling a nearly 100-year-old home in LA. Rach also highlights the logistics of managing a home remodel while balancing family life and work commitments. Despite the setbacks, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing family and maintaining an optimistic outlook. Shot and recorded in the back of her car! Get your copy of Rachel's New Book Here: Audible, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Millon, Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold!01:03 Podcasting from the Car01:53 The Fixer Upper Adventure Begins03:31 House Hunting and Zillow Dreams07:26 The Offer and Renovation Plans10:27 Contractor Woes and Delays18:08 Dealing with Unreliable Contractors18:45 Ke's Strongly Worded Email19:57 Discovering the Project Manager20:57 Becoming Our Own Contractors22:00 Jackson Steps Up23:12 Navigating Construction Chaos23:47 Thumbtack to the Rescue24:51 Painting and Priming Challenges25:57 New Office and Future Plans30:05 Balancing Family and Business36:37 Looking Ahead to New Podcast FormatSign up for Rachel's weekly email: https://msrachelhollis.com/insider/Call the podcast hotline and leave a voicemail! Call (737) 400-4626Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RachelHollisMotivation/videosFollow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MsRachelHollisTo learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices.

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Bill Kahle, a passionate coach and evangelist. They discuss the importance of mentorship in coaching, the struggles with addiction, and the connection between high achievers and substance abuse. Bill shares his journey of balancing faith, family, and coaching, emphasizing the need for open conversations in parenting and the role of the church in personal growth. The conversation also explores different wrestling styles, the growth of Greco-Roman wrestling in America, and the significance of setting high expectations for young athletes. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Bill Kahle discuss the multifaceted impact of education, international experiences, and wrestling on youth development. They explore how challenges in education can shape character, the importance of international exposure in broadening perspectives, and the role of wrestling in instilling resilience and work ethic. The discussion also delves into the significance of faith and spirituality in athletic pursuits, emphasizing how these elements contribute to personal growth and leadership in family dynamics.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Support for Gird Up Podcast04:41 The Role of Faith in Coaching09:29 The Pressure of High Achievers and Escapism14:05 Balancing Family, Faith, and Sports19:00 Parenting and Hard Conversations23:40 The Importance of Vocalizing Struggles28:03 Understanding the Church's Role in Community33:17 Coaching and Mentorship in Wrestling39:40 The Value of Dreaming Big41:54 Navigating Coaching and Family Life44:41 Experiences in International Wrestling48:34 Navigating Challenges in Education51:42 The Impact of International Experiences on Youth56:26 The Importance of Hard Work and Masculinity01:00:51 Passion and Purpose in Life01:05:08 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth01:09:41 Faith and Personal Development in Sports01:11:47 The Power of Forgiveness and Redemption01:12:37 David vs. Goliath: Courage and Preparation01:13:45 Confidence in Skills and Faith01:14:23 Spirituality in Sports and Life's Battles01:15:39 Youth and the Search for Purpose01:16:43 Spiritual Warfare and Inner Battles01:17:05 Legacy of Greatness: David's Ancestry01:18:59 The Role of Mentorship in Growth01:20:23 Building Community and Leadership01:21:38 The Importance of Male Role Models01:22:32 Everyday Leadership and Responsibility01:24:07 The Balance of Strength and Meekness01:25:27 Modeling Behavior and Influence01:27:21 The Complexity of Language and Communication01:29:23 Strength in Control and DisciplineBill's Links:https://www.instagram.com/billkahle?igsh=Yzd1NWxsdzFpd2d6&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/payton_jacobson34?igsh=NDN0anZkbjB0cDJhGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Reawakening Beauty, host Shawna Patruno interviews model and entrepreneur Bozena Zag. Bozena shares her journey of starting a modeling career at a later age, the challenges she faced, and the strategies she used to succeed. She emphasizes the importance of self-investment, positive affirmations, and staying grounded amidst negativity. Bozena also reveals her beauty routine and the role of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining her skin and overall happiness. The conversation concludes with a preview of Bozena's upcoming life-changing course and where to find her online.   00:00 Welcome to Reawakening Beauty 00:30 Meet Bozena Zag: Model and Entrepreneur 01:05 Starting a Modeling Career Later in Life 02:06 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Confident 03:23 The Power of Positive Affirmations 04:27 Balancing Family and Career 05:50 Beauty and Wellness Routine 07:44 Upcoming Launch and Final Thoughts 08:29 Closing Remarks and Subscribe   Skin Elixir - A collagen building supplement Click to view the detailed show notes Photo credit: @paul_iacoviello    

From Comedy Clubs to Hollywood: Kevin Chapman's Incredible Journey | Reza Rifts   In this must-watch Reza Rifts episode, Keith Reza sits down with acclaimed actor Kevin Chapman (Person of Interest, Mystic River, Boondock Saints) as he shares his incredible journey from managing Boston comedy clubs to starring alongside Hollywood legends. Discover behind-the-scenes stories about working with Clint Eastwood, the challenges of breaking into acting, and his unforgettable roles in Black Dynamite and CODA. Chapman also opens up about typecasting, Hollywood's business shift, and the importance of taking risks. Whether you're a film buff or aspiring actor, you won't want to miss this!    

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have. What if you could transform a fledgling family venture into a thriving business legacy? Join us for an engaging conversation with the Bozzuto brothers—Tony, Alan, and Brian—as they recount their individual and collective journeys in growing Bozzuto Insurance from their father's solo endeavor into a successful brokerage. Tony, the CEO, Alan, the Chief Business Development Officer, and Brian, the CFO, share their unique paths and pivotal experiences that led them to embrace the family legacy, highlighting the importance of retention and sales in cementing the agency's foundation.What role does family dynamics play in business success, and how does one balance personal and professional relationships? These are the questions we tackle with the brothers as they navigate the nuances of working alongside family. Candid conversations bring to light both the perks and challenges of blending familial bonds with business, offering insight into maintaining harmony amid disagreements. Discover how they keep the business talk in check during family gatherings and how the strength of their relationships helps sustain their business growth.In the final segment, we focus on the future, reflecting on the hurdles of expanding a family business and the strategies for building a lasting legacy. The Bozzuto brothers discuss the importance of nurturing a strong company culture and recruiting new talent to fill the shoes of the retiring generation. They share their aspirations for the next wave of family members, underscoring the need for passion and dedication to carry the torch forward. Through their experiences, they provide valuable lessons for other family-run businesses looking to leave a meaningful impact.To learn more about Bozzuto Insurance Services, visit the website HERE.Chapter Summaries:  (00:00) Three Bozzuto Brothers Discuss Family BusinessThe Bozzuto brothers share their journey in managing Bizzuto Insurance, specializing in commercial insurance and expanding into personal lines and group health.(13:54) Journey of Family Members in BusinessGrowing up in a family business, siblings share memories and paths to eventually embracing the insurance industry.(27:40) Balancing Family and Business RelationshipsFamily-run businesses have benefits and challenges, including candid communication and balancing work and personal relationships.(36:21) Challenges in Family Business GrowthFamily-owned insurance business faces growth challenges, recruitment struggles, and the need to educate about insurance as a career.(42:53) Building a Family Business LegacyCulture's role in retaining employees in family businesses, emphasizing values, maintaining a family-like atmosphere, planning for the future, and acknowledging previous generation's support.(48:54) Lessons Learned From Family Business LegacyGrowing up in a resilient family, acknowledging unique contributions, and the success of Bozzuto Insurance through hard work and dedication.To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE

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In this special episode of The Wealthy Practitioner Podcast, Steph shares a powerful conversation from her guest appearance on the Heartwork Podcast with hosts and fellow TWP clients, Dr. Sara Nelson-Gray and Dr. Marisa Baumann. This discussion dives deep into Steph's entrepreneurial journey, the mindset shifts that created breakthrough moments, and the real talk behind building multiple seven-figure businesses while staying authentic. She opens up about her path from chiropractic practice to coaching empire, the childhood experiences that shaped her drive, and how she navigates high-level entrepreneurship while maintaining family balance. She also delivers straight talk on overcoming workaholism, dealing with judgment, money mindset, and why vulnerability is actually your greatest leadership superpower. 00:00 Welcome to the Heartwork Podcast 00:32 The Impact of Steph's Community 03:28 Steph's Journey into Chiropractic 05:59 Balancing Family and Career 07:44 Transitioning to Coaching 12:27 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose 17:34 Navigating Personal and Professional Growth 26:32 Maintaining Relationships and Personal Identity 30:34 Overcoming Workaholism and Finding Balance 31:20 Creating Space for Strategic Thinking 32:34 The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership 35:52 Navigating Success and Money Mindset 37:57 Dealing with Judgment and Staying True to Yourself 44:20 Challenges in Coaching and Personal Growth 54:03 Dreaming Big and Future Aspirations 57:09 Conclusion and Ways to Connect If today's episode lit something up in you and you're ready to scale your practice without burning out (or sacrificing your life), join Steph in her Scale to 300K Masterclass on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 7:30 PM EST. This free, 60-minute session will walk you through the exact 3-stage framework she's used to help hundreds of practitioners create stable, scalable, freedom-filled businesses. Sign up today at the link here: https://go.thewealthypractitioner.com/scale-to-300k

Eli Lebowicz describes his skills journey from a stadium concession vendor to a standup comedian. His insights into the world of comedy include how his background and skills prepared him for a career in humor, the nuances of different comedic styles, the challenges of performing for varied audiences, and the importance of finding your unique voice. Additionally, Eli opens up about his personal journey, the risks he took, and the unexpected paths that led him to a fulfilling career in comedy.▬▬▬▬▬ Resources ▬▬▬▬▬Eli Lebowicz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lebowicz/Website: https://www.elicomedy.com/The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F: https://www.amazon.com/Subtle-Art-Not-Giving-Counterintuitive/dp/0062457713The Tim Ferriss Show - Esther Perel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hu-sCM0eXawJewish Jonah: https://www.instagram.com/jewishjonah/David Comrov: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJkjYoJxNDS/Ari Finkel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ari-finkel-pe-89025412/Michael Simons: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-simons-9708395/Ryan Dempster: https://www.instagram.com/dempster4646/Carlos Mármol: https://www.instagram.com/carlos_marmol/Elon Gold: https://www.elongold.com/Modi: https://www.instagram.com/modi_live/Howie Mandel: https://www.instagram.com/howiemandel/Kumail Nanjiani: https://www.instagram.com/kumailn/Mo Amer: https://www.instagram.com/moamer/Ramy Youssef: https://www.instagram.com/ramy/Shtisel: https://www.netflix.com/title/81004164My Big Fat Greek Wedding: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0259446/The Zone of Genius: https://www.amazon.com/Genius-Zone-Breakthrough-Negative-Creativity/dp/1250246547Up In The Air: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1193138/Ami Kozak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ami-kozak-46627114/JSketch: https://www.instagram.com/jsketchcomedy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacklemedia/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cacklemediaX: https://x.com/CackleMediaLLCYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CackleMediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cacklemedia/Support the pod when signing up for Descript / SquadCast: https://get.descript.com/transferableskillSign up for our newsletter: https://shorturl.at/WDrfTWant to be a guest on the show?: https://shorturl.at/umZ2l▬▬▬▬▬ Timestamps ▬▬▬▬▬00:00 Introduction to Transferable Skills00:48 Comedy Preferences and Influences06:41 Balancing Family and Personal Life14:28 The Vending Experience at Cubs Games18:34 Strategies and Economics of Vending28:59 Creative Vending Techniques30:24 The Power of Humor in Difficult Times34:00 Early Influences and Comedy Beginnings35:15 Crafting and Performing Comedy38:14 Navigating the Orthodox Jewish Comedy Scene45:36 The Impact of Representation in Media54:11 Pursuing Comedy Full-Time59:17 The Economics and Skills of Stand-Up Comedy01:06:17 Final Thoughts and Inspiration

The crew explores the multifaceted concept of what makes a good man, examining perspectives from cultural, societal, and biblical viewpoints. The hosts discuss the dangers of passivity, the importance of pursuing one's calling with passion, and the challenge of balancing personal ambitions with family responsibilities. They emphasize that being a good man is fundamentally about loving God, staying true to one's purpose, and continually moving forward despite challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of identity, strength, courage, and influence in defining masculinity. Ultimately, the episode suggests that being a good man is less about meeting external expectations and more about authentically following God's guidance and purpose. Chapters: 1. Introduction to the Topic (00:00:00) - The podcast hosts introduce the question "What makes a good man?" and discuss how perspectives on this can vary based on cultural, societal, and biblical expectations. 2. Defining Goodness (00:05:48) - The hosts explore the complexity of defining "good" and how different perspectives (cultural, Christian, Biblical) can shape understanding of what makes a good man. 3. Passivity vs. Pursuit (00:25:50) - The discussion centers on the dangers of passivity and the importance of moving forward, pursuing one's calling, and not being paralyzed by fear of making mistakes. 4. Balancing Family and Calling (00:31:02) - The hosts discuss the challenge of pursuing one's God-given purpose while maintaining strong family relationships, challenging the notion that these are separate paths. 5. Personal Experiences and Reflections (00:50:43) - Caleb shares a personal story about his father's approach to work and family, illustrating what he believes makes a good man. 6. Closing Thoughts (01:06:56) - Jason concludes the episode by recommending Rudyard Kipling's poem "If" and encouraging listeners to keep faith and stay in the fight.

Send us a Positive Review!In this episode Val is a guest on the Join Latter Day Digest podcast & what unfolds is the very unlikely story that led to Val's and Nathan's eventual 'outlaw' status within the LDS church.  Why is this so odd?  Because this couple could not have been more traditionally believing for the majority of their lives--including spending most of their marriage following all of the traditional scripts of Mormonism...which in some ways worked and in other ways didn't work that well at all.  Then something happened within Val & Nathan (different life-shifting changes/crises) and their paradigms changed...radically.  From living traditional roles prescribed by outside 'experts' on their lives to becoming passionate advocates of finding courage, truth, and God-connection within, Val shares a journey that might offer hope to anyone out there who thinks transformation isn't possible.  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:22 Valerie's Early Life and Background02:04 Young Women's Experience in the Church04:33 Struggles with Traditional Gender Roles10:06 Mission and College Years16:25 Meeting Her Future Husband18:53 Professional Aspirations and Challenges22:01 Empathy and Helping Others24:50 The Cost of Doing the Right Thing25:22 Balancing Family and Career25:48 Struggles of a Stay-at-Home Mom27:44 Finding Joy and Autonomy29:46 Guilt and Cognitive Dissonance33:15 Pursuing a Career in Mental Health36:43 Starting a Private Practice41:10 The Birth of Latter Day Struggles Podcast43:58 Helping Others Through Faith Expansion47:05 Commitment to a Higher Calling50:43 Conclusion and Future PlansSupport the showListen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Subscription $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Subscription $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Donate: ⁠Venmo or Patreon⁠ Visit our Website

Exploring Authenticity and Integration in Psychedelic Coaching with Lauren Gallagher  In this episode of the Psychedelic Coach Podcast, Kole interviews Lauren Gallagher, an experienced facilitator and coach with 15 years of experience leading retreats and working in psychedelic spaces. They discuss the importance of intentional intake, integration, and creating lasting transformations within the context of psychedelic work. Lauren shares insights into her journey, the significance of community, and the practical aspects of stewarding land for retreats. The conversation delves into how to navigate personal growth, the role of microdosing, and ensuring support systems for integration. Lauren emphasizes the importance of truth, intentionality, and the ongoing process of aligning with one's inner knowing. 00:00 Introduction to Psychedelic Coaching 00:56 Meet Lauren Gallagher 01:14 Balancing Family and Work 02:56 The Importance of Integration 07:35 Leading Retreats and Community Work 15:17 Stewarding Land and Building Community 23:59 The Importance of Intentionality 25:47 The Role of Coaches in Personal Growth 27:03 Tracking Progress and Overcoming Challenges 29:03 Microdosing and Daily Practices 32:54 Choosing the Right Path for Personal Development 38:10 The Value of Mentorship and Continuous Learning 43:18 Embracing Motherhood and Personal Transformation 45:41 Final Thoughts and Contact Information   More about Lauren:  Lauren Gallagher is a transformational guide, coach, and mentor with over 15 years of experience working with entheogens, traditional healers, and ancient wisdom practices. She has served more than 1,000 individuals through her retreats, coaching, and group containers, creating spaces for profound healing and growth. Lauren's journey is rooted in deep training and ongoing practice. She has studied with traditional healers from Peru for over a decade, refining her ability to hold sacred and transformative spaces. Her education includes extensive work in somatics, psychedelic integration, and training with Dr. Gabor Maté, whose Compassionate Inquiry framework has further deepened her approach. She is also a trained practitioner of Nonviolent Communication, supporting her work in fostering deep self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and relational healing. As a clinical herbalist, Lauren weaves plant medicine wisdom into her work, offering holistic pathways for healing and transformation. She is the founder and steward of Of Soil + Stars, a retreat center nestled in the rolling hills of Northern California, where she curates transformational retreats designed to help individuals reconnect with themselves and their inner wisdom. Her offerings integrate modern trauma-informed practices with the timeless teachings of the human spirit, empowering participants to embrace their fullest potential. A mystic devoted to the study of being human and being alive, Lauren is also a mother of two, walking the path of transformation both personally and professionally. Through her work, she invites you to reclaim your sovereignty, heal deeply, and awaken to the infinite possibilities of your journey.

Get registered for the ASTA Expo 2025 at the Raleigh Convention Center: https://geni.us/ASTA2025 Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2025Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityMake sure you mention: CTISUMMER to get FREE data migration!If you're ready to make a real change in your shop's success, join Shop Marketing Pros' Plan With the Pros workshop this October to connect with them and other shop owners. You'll leave with your entire year for 2026 planned out. Click here to register: https://geni.us/PlanWithTheProsShop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into one sleek, digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas and David sit down with Darin Johnson, owner of Darin's Auto Repair in Great Bend, Kansas. Darin shares the challenges of running a busy one-man shop, including the struggle to maintain a work-life balance and the tendency to discount services for customers emotionally. The conversation covers the importance of implementing shop management software, establishing more effective pricing strategies, and setting clearer boundaries to prevent burnout. Unfortunately, since this recording, Darin appears to have closed his business.00:00 First Truck Drive Experience07:10 Balancing Family, Work, and Support15:17 Hiring and Training Essentials16:16 Hiring Strategy: Prioritize Tech Roles21:48 Efficient Schedule for Maximizing Revenue32:23 Finding Sustainable Work-Life Balance37:28 Structured Scheduling Strategy40:59 "Optimizing Work Schedule Efficiency"46:46 "Action Plan Essentials"48:58 Optimizing Labor Rate Increments59:01 "Vision Conference: Unite Shop Owners"01:01:48 "When It Clicked for Me"

Join Walter Lee and Clayton Bond as they dive into the world of hunting, sharing their experiences and insights from the field. From the challenges of balancing family life with hunting to the thrill of the chase, this episode is packed with stories and tips for hunters of all levels. 10:45 - Hunting Stories - Clayton shares his memorable hunting experiences, including a trip to Iowa. 25:00 - Balancing Family and Hunting - Insights on managing family responsibilities while pursuing hunting passions. 35:20 - Hunting with Kids - Clayton talks about hunting with his son and creating lasting memories. 45:10 - Future Hunting Plans - Walter and Clayton discuss their plans for the upcoming hunting season. 55:00 - Closing Thoughts - Encouragement to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. 1:10:00 - Call to Action - Subscribe and share the podcast with fellow hunting enthusiasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Growing up in Brooklyn with a career as an attorney, Diane Aboushi of Halal Pastures farm did not follow the most traditional path to becoming a farmer. However, researching how to provide the healthiest food for their kids prompted Diane and her family to start a meat business that eventually led to moving out of the city and adding vegetable farming to the mix.  In this conversation with host Katie Kulla, Diane discusses the importance of halal food, the expansion of her business from meat to organic vegetables, and the significance of growing culturally important vegetable varieties for their customers. Diane emphasizes the role of education and community engagement in her farming practices, as well as the challenges of balancing family life with farm operations. She highlights the importance of organic certification, diversification for sustainability, and the value of direct marketing through building your own email list. Connect With Guest:Instagram: @halalpasturesfarmWebsite: https://www.halalpastures.com Podcast Sponsors: Huge thanks to our podcast sponsors as they make this podcast FREE to everyone with their generous support: Tilth Soil makes living soils for organic growers. The base for all our mixes is NOP-compliant compost, made from the 4,000 tons of food scraps we divert from landfills each year. And the results speak for themselves. Get excellent germination, strong transplants, and help us turn these resources back into food. Try a free bag, and check our 2025 farmer pricing at tilthsoil.com/gfm. Farmhand is the all-in-one virtual assistant created for CSA farmers. With five-star member support, custom websites, shop management, and seamless billing, Farmhand makes it effortless to market, manage, and grow a thriving CSA. Learn more and set up a demo with the founder at farmhand.partners/gfm. Nifty Hoops builds complete gothic high tunnels that are easy to install and built to last. Their bolt-together construction makes setup straightforward and efficient, whether it's a small backyard hoophouse, or a dozen large production-scale high tunnels- especially through their community build option, where professional builders work alongside your crew, family, or neighbors to build each structure- usually in a single day. Visit niftyhoops.com to learn more.Subscribe To Our Magazine -all new subscriptions include a FREE 28-Day Trial 

In this episode of Screen to Speed podcast powered by INIT eSports, the Lyubov interviews Bex Betman, a New Zealand native who shares her lifelong involvement in motorsports. Bex discusses her early years growing up around cars due to her father's and stepfather's influence, her transition from Speedway to circuit racing, and her love for Japanese cars. The conversation covers Bex's experiences in various motorsport disciplines, including time attack, drift racing, and her plans to enter endurance racing with her Mitsubishi Evo. Bex also talks about her daughters' involvement in racing and how she balances family life with her passion for motorsports. Additionally, she touches on the supportive racing community in New Zealand and her aspirations to drive on international tracks. The episode highlights Bex's practical approach to car building and modification, her experiences with different racing events, and her stance on the representation of women in motorsports. So buckle up – Screen to Speed starts now! ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 Meet Bex Betman 01:36 Dirt Racing in New Zealand 08:26 Time Attack and Drag Racing 11:30 Balancing Family and Racing 15:07 Community and Events 18:56 Challenges and Gender in Motorsport: Her Daughter's MX-5 Racing Journey 26:58 EVO Build and Racing Duties 29:41 Plans for Upcoming Racing Season 33:57 Endurance Racing Aspirations 42:25 Dream Tracks and Future Goals 47:38 Final Thoughts ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/ Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/ INIT eSports focuses on sim racing events and digital tournaments. They bring eSports content to fans and sponsorship opportunities to brands, while maximizing audience reach across multiple sports, industries, and platforms. INIT eSports is a woman-led company where Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility is in their DNA, and their platform aims to combat bullying and cheating to help make the eSports world as safe and fair as possible. To learn more, be sure to logon to www.initesports.gg today or follow them on social media @initesports, join their discord, check out their YouTube Channel, or follow their live content via Twitch. Copyright INIT eSports. This content originally aired on the INIT Talks livestreams via Twitch. This episode is part of the Motoring Podcast Network and has been republished with permission.

 In this engaging episode, Nick interviews John Sadie, an accountant and passionate Bulldogs fan, as they reflect on their year-long friendship and shared experiences. The conversation takes a deep dive into their love for rugby league, the trials and tribulations of building a business, and the challenges of fatherhood. John shares the significant milestone of losing 65 kilos, enduring multiple personal and professional setbacks, including a motorcycle accident and a miscarriage. They discuss the transition from focusing on monetary gains to providing value and the impact of faith on leadership and business. John also emphasizes the critical role of fathers in nurturing a family, balancing business responsibilities, and the importance of leading by example for his children. This heartfelt dialogue provides listeners with insights into resilience, faith, family values, and the essence of pursuing excellence in life and business.00:00 Welcome 01:00 Bulldogs' Journey and Hopes05:31 Accountant with a Passion for Business06:41 The Drive to Provide Value12:02 Faith and Virtues in Business18:54 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges41:32 Balancing Family and Fitness41:55 The Legacy of Fatherhood43:18 Teaching Values and Gratitude49:00 The Importance of Fathers53:44 Faith and Family Structure56:44 Self-Care for Better Parenting58:37 Lessons from Our Fathers01:04:42 Being Present for Your Kids01:11:11 Work-Life Integration01:22:40 The Power of Community01:25:41 Reflecting on Identity01:27:09 Conclusion and Contact InformationFollow John: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnsaade/FOLLOW ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickbetarofficial/Sponsors: Betar Media: https://www.instagram.com/betarmedia/

In this engaging conversation, Andy May, a renowned deer hunter known for his expertise in public land hunting breaks down his habits and how they impact his pursuit. We discuss Andy's journey as a self-taught hunter, balancing family life with hunting, and the importance of continuous learning from mistakes. The conversation delves into the seven habits of highly effective deer hunters, emphasizing the significance of year-round scouting and being proficient with one's weapon. Andy shares his insights on the mindset required for successful hunting and the strategies he employs to stay connected with the sport, even amidst a busy schedule. In this conversation we discuss the essential habits of highly effective deer hunters. We emphasize the importance of scouting, mastering equipment, mental preparation through visualization, maintaining fitness, challenging oneself in hunting, and seeking mentorship from experienced hunters. The dialogue highlights how these practices not only improve hunting success but also contribute to personal growth and mental toughness. Takeaways Balancing family responsibilities with hunting is a common challenge for many hunters. Self-taught hunters often develop unique strategies and mindsets. Mistakes in hunting can lead to valuable learning experiences. Aggression in hunting strategies can yield better results on public land. Year-round scouting is crucial for understanding deer behavior and habitats. Proficiency with one's weapon is essential for successful hunting. The mindset of continuous improvement is vital for any hunter. Being in the woods regularly enhances a hunter's intuition and knowledge. Different scouting strategies can be employed based on the time of year and specific hunting goals. Scouting is crucial as conditions can change rapidly. Mastering your equipment leads to more efficient hunting. Mental preparation through visualization can enhance performance. Fitness and endurance are key for challenging hunts. Challenging yourself in difficult hunting scenarios fosters growth. Learning from others can provide valuable insights and skills. Visualization helps in executing perfect shots during hunts. Staying in shape is essential for longevity in hunting. Choosing difficult methods can lead to greater fulfillment in hunting. Hunting can teach valuable life skills and mental toughness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Andy May: America's Deer Hunter 05:25 Balancing Family and Hunting: The Working Man's Approach 10:38 The Journey of a Self-Taught Hunter 14:34 Aggression in Hunting: Learning from Mistakes 20:51 Mastering Your Weapon: The Importance of Proficiency 33:08 Building Proficiency Through Practice 37:26 The Importance of Year-Round Scouting 47:17 Understanding Scouting Techniques 54:45 Continuous Improvement and Skill Development 01:01:20 Fitness and Mental Toughness in Hunting 01:10:15 The Connection Between Fitness and Hunting Success 01:19:38 Mental Toughness in Hunting 01:40:14 The Power of Visualization 01:42:40 Learning from Others: The Importance of Mentorship Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Struggle's Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - In this episode, elite climber Sonnie Trotter explores: The 5.15a he's training for, and what he's specifically doing  The visualization trick he uses to get better at climbing (while at home) Climbers who can do V14 on a board but not 5.10a outside  Training power vs endurance  Dreamcatcher dreams Dealing with fitness setbacks due to sickness or injury Board climbing for peak power How to improve footwork using hard gym climbs Managing fear on bold climbs and free solos Getting the kids into climbing  His new book Uplifted  - BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 10% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne! Rungne.com SCARPA: Whether you're a climber, trail runner, skier, or hiker, SCARPA offers an array of adventure footwear for the adventure seeker in you. with a commitment to sustainability. Shop the whole collection at SCARPA.com. SCARPA, No Place Too Far.  Arc'teryx: Inspired by and tested in the Coast Mountains of BC, Arc'teryx makes gear to go the distance! If you're out adventuring in the elements, Arc'teryx has got you covered. Shop their full collection at Arcteryx.com  And check out ALL the show's awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:51 Journey in Rock Climbing 01:30 Balancing Family and Climbing 02:02 Training and Rest Strategies 02:57 Current Projects and Fitness Regimen 04:10 The Legendary Cobra Crack 05:12 Mental Aspects of Climbing 06:05 Conversation with Sonnie Trotter Begins 07:03 Pivotal Moments in Climbing 14:10 Sonnie's Climbing Heroes and Influences 19:53 Nutritional Adjustments and Insights 33:19 Balancing Professional Climbing and Family Life 38:49 Sonnie's Current and Future Projects 39:27 Navigating Risk and Fear in Climbing 42:19 Reflections on Climbing Legacy 43:49 Coaching and parenting in Climbing 47:06 The Journey to Writing Uplifted 51:43 Stories and Reflections from the Book 59:50 Reflections on Climbing Legacy 01:02:45 Sonnie's Future Goals 01:08:48 Listener Questions and Final Thoughts - Check out Sonnie's wonderful book, Uplifted, available on Patagonia, Amazon, etc. - Meet me at ICF in Lander! https://www.climbersfestival.org/ - Follow along on Instagram @thestruggleclimbingshow and YouTube /@thestruggleclimbingshow - The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation, whose mission is to promote solar energy for a more equitable world. - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! I hope your training and climbing are going great.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that's done. But hey, if you're a human that's actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I'll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!   

"Life is a balance between holding on and letting go." — RumiYou've got questions, I've got answers! Welcome to a Win the Day Q&A minisode.Today we go through:• How do you balance work, life, marriage, and the young kids?• Would you ever consider moving back to Australia to live?• Is it better to write things down physically (pen) or digitally?• Who is your dream podcast guest?Onward,JamesPS —⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join 20K+ other subscribers on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this inspiring episode of Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations, host Tobi Ojekunle sits down with visionary entrepreneur David Sauers, the man behind Royal Restrooms and several other groundbreaking ventures. With over two decades of experience, David has taken what many considered mundane—like portable restrooms and outdoor event logistics—and transformed them into premium, unforgettable experiences. We dive into how he turned scepticism into success, franchised his vision nationally, and continues to innovate across various industries.From practical challenges to soul-deep purpose, this conversation explores the mindset, discipline, and heart it takes to lead with impact. David also shares invaluable wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those entering the world of franchising or overlooked markets.Chapters00:00 Introduction to David's Journey07:31 The Birth of Royal Restrooms13:28 Overcoming Industry Challenges17:38 The Franchising Model Explained22:28 Customer Experience and Core Values25:46 Navigating Client Expectations30:10 Expanding Business Horizons33:53 The Importance of Innovation37:33 Balancing Family and Business41:23 Future Ventures and Community Impact

In this episode, we've got a true pioneer in the barn—Zach Johnson, better known as the Millennial Farmer. Zach's been at the forefront of sharing real, unfiltered farm life with the world, picking up a camera and showing millions exactly what goes down on his Minnesota family farm. In this special episode, hosts Tork and Sawyer dig into what inspired Zach to start documenting his journey, how social media has transformed agriculture, and the ups and downs of being both a farmer and a content creator.From sharing farm mishaps (like playing the “John Deere shuffle” before a blizzard) to the realities of family business, passing on the farm to the next generation, and tackling tough topics like sustainability, regulations, and public misconceptions about ag, this episode goes deep but keeps it real—with plenty of laughs along the way.We also sip some whiskey, talk about balancing work, family, and hobbies (dirt track racing, anyone?), and discuss why agriculture's biggest challenges also open up major opportunities. Whether you're a longtime follower of Zach or just looking for some real talk about life on the farm, you won't want to miss this conversation. Let's get into it!Shop Farmer Grade