Podcasts about deciding

What does it look like to redefine family and build a support system rooted in friendship? In this episode of Brown Ambition, host Mandi Woodruff-Santos sits down with NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe and her best friend Jasmin Melvin Hudson to talk about their bold decision to buy a home together and raise their five children under one roof. From meeting as young journalists to becoming inseparable best friends, Ayesha and Jasmin share how their bond evolved into a life partnership centered on co-parenting, financial teamwork, and unconditional support. They open up about navigating shared responsibilities, creating stability for their kids, and what it means to build a family outside of traditional norms. This inspiring conversation dives into: The origin of their friendship and how it deepened over time Deciding to co-purchase a home and their approach to ownership & finances Parenting five kids together and creating a loving, stable household Balancing personal dating lives while keeping their family core strong Handling assumptions from outsiders about their unique arrangement Why building your own “village” can be the key to surviving today’s economic and social pressures Whether you’re a parent, considering alternative paths to homeownership, or just curious about how two best friends are rewriting the rules of family, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on love, community, and resilience. Links & Resources: Follow Ayesha & Jasmin’s journey on Instagram: @under1roofff Keep up with Mandi on IG/Twitter: @mandimoney BA Fam, Let’s Connect! Join the conversation on IG: @brownambitionpodcast Share the episode and tag us — we love seeing your takeaways! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review to keep spreading the ambition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Register for the webinar: Liquidity Options for Search Investors - Wed Sep 24th - https://bit.ly/48lptOcJack Saville was asked if owning a small business was underutilizing his talents. The question prompted a big decision.Topics in Jack and Sam's interview:Jack's motivation to own something and take a riskYou are always buying a jobLinking up with Sam Rosati through SMBootcampBuying a business far from his familyRealizing that he didn't want to operate a lifestyle businessDifficulties of growing in a tourist townSelling the business to Perimeter Solutions GroupJoining the leadership of Perimeter Solutions GroupContinuously question your whyGetting in the game unlocks opportunitiesReferences and how to contact Jack and Sam:Sam Rosati LinkedInJack Saville LinkedInPerimeter Solutions GroupSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds: How to Shorten Your Search: Big 3, Little 2Sarah Chiles and Matthew Ferguson on Acquiring Minds: Geography as Moat: Building a Hometown HoldcoGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you're a searcherDownload the New CEO's Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

In this powerful episode of Big Butts No Lies, Mavi sits down with her client Ami to share the real, behind-the-scenes story of her plastic surgery journey. From battling anxiety to making the tough decision of whether to combine or separate multiple procedures—including tummy tuck, lipo 360, BBL, and breast implant exchange—Amy opens up about the lessons she learned along the way.We dive into:How to choose the right plastic surgeon (and why protocols matter)Deciding between staged surgeries vs. combining proceduresThe emotional and mental side of recovery (especially with anxiety)The importance of aftercare, lymphatic massages & hiring a nurseBudgeting for surgery, supplements, and even a new wardrobe ✨Whether you're planning your first procedure or still researching, Amy's journey is packed with tips, insights, and inspiration to help you feel more confident in your own path.

In this insightful episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, the owner of Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm in Central Minnesota, shares her unique journey from a nursing career to becoming a successful flower farmer and rural entrepreneur. Joined by podcast producer Abbey as the guest host, Liz delves into her agricultural upbringing, the evolution of her business Sunny Mary Meadow, challenges in agritourism, and her vision to create sustainable income streams. The conversation covers the logistical and emotional facets involved in building a reputable flower farm, the implementation of agritourism strategies, and the significant role community support plays in her entrepreneurial journey. The episode wraps up with Liz's favorite and least favorite farm tasks, educational resources, and a teaser for a new tool set to revolutionize farming. Tune in to hear an inspiring story filled with passion, perseverance, and purposeful growth.00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism00:19 Meet the Hosts: Dr. Liz and Abbey01:31 Liz's Agricultural Background02:18 Life After College and Meeting Josh05:41 Starting a Family and Farm Life07:54 Deciding to Stay on the Family Farm12:38 Building a Sustainable Flower Farm Business19:13 Legal and Zoning Challenges for Farm Venues21:06 Deciding to Build New: The Plan22:05 Collaborating with Local Businesses24:12 Creating a Multi-Use Space25:31 Business Strategy and Market Gaps32:52 Sustainable Flower Farming33:41 Rapid Fire Questions36:31 Conclusion and Future PlansPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this special MakingChips Machine Shop MBA episode, we sit down with Peter Doyle—CEO of Hirsch Precision—to unpack what it takes to grow and transform a machine shop with purpose. From his roots as an Air Force officer to leading a former Top Shops award winner, Peter has blended strategy, structure, and heart into a roadmap any shop leader can learn from. Peter shares why strategic vision is more than a slogan on a wall. He explains how his team at Hirsch Precision focuses on high-mix, low-volume work, invests heavily in sales and marketing, and positions themselves as partners to engineers—not just parts suppliers. This shift has generated a steady stream of new business opportunities while maintaining the discipline required for regulated industries like aerospace and medical. Throughout the conversation, Peter emphasizes the importance of deliberate decisions: building customer-centric processes, developing leaders, hiring wisely, and implementing technology and certifications that align with their mission to “improve quality of life through precision manufacturing solutions.” For machine shop owners, managers, and future leaders, this episode is a blueprint for balancing risk with reward—how to create a strategic growth vision, win the right customers, and build a resilient team ready for the next decade of manufacturing innovation. Segments (2:42) Peter's career journey from Air Force officer to Deloitte consultant to manufacturing leader (4:32) Lessons from Top Shops benchmarking—how to interpret the data and use it to guide strategy (5:53) Defining strategic growth: vision, customer focus, structure, agility, and leadership development (9:04) Building a sales and marketing engine—brand refresh, website upgrade, CRM adoption, and content strategy (10:57) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC!  (11:53) Deciding to purchase and expand the business—risk appetite, growth targets, and new facility (14:15) Aligning the team with a growth vision (overcoming skepticism and making decisive calls) (15:32) Hiring experienced business development talent and shifting from craft focus to customer experience (19:30) Implementing HubSpot CRM, learning to be externally focused, and building scalable marketing systems (23:00) The difference between doing sales and managing sales—lessons in leadership at the customer interface (27:00) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (27:40) Moving beyond the buyer—how Peter built relationships with engineers and C-suite leaders (30:00) Choosing industries and customers that inspire—medical devices, surgical robotics, aerospace, and more (36:20) Translating customer-centric thinking into technology investments and equipment decisions (39:46) Balancing machine tool brand standardization with flexibility and innovation (42:40) Leadership evolution—learning to delegate, empower, and coach for high performance (45:31) SMART goals and performance management—aligning individual metrics with company-wide strategy (47:56) Closing reflections on creating a strategic growth vision and inspiring the next generation of shop leaders (49:19) Why you need to join us at MTForecast Resources mentioned on this episode  Peter's episode on Machine Shop Mastery Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC! Discount code: MAK20 Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)  Why you need to join us at MTForecast  Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Mark and Lana from Blisstopia Retreats to talk about what it really takes to co-facilitate powerful retreats—and build a business together without losing your minds (or your marriage). Mark and Lana share their journey from psychotherapy and martial arts to running over 60 retreats and living on-site at their stunning Arizona retreat villa. With over 7,000 sq ft of curated wellness space, they've built a business based on balance, service, and transformation. You'll hear: Why co-leading retreats is a dance of trust, clarity, and communication The pros and cons of living at your retreat property What makes a retreat center host different from a vacation rental owner Tips for thriving in a saturated retreat market A special offer just for podcast listeners Mention this episode and get $500 off a 3-day retreat rental at Blisstopia Retreats! Whether you host retreats solo, with a team, or dream of running your own retreat center, this convo will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how to lead with heart and strategy. Connect with Mark and Lana: https://www.blisstopiaretreats.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ------------------Timestamps: Introduction (00:00:00) Overview of the podcast's focus on retreat leadership, guest experiences, and marketing secrets. Introducing the Guests: Mark & Loni (00:00:25) Host introduces Mark and Loni, a couple running a retreat business together. Loni's Background & Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:48) Loni shares her psychotherapy, wellness, and entrepreneurial background, and how she met Mark. Mark's Background & Transition to Retreats (00:03:28) Mark discusses his martial arts and coaching background, and their shift to retreats after the pandemic. Deciding to Open a Retreat Center (00:04:18) The couple describes the decision to sell everything and open a retreat center in Arizona. Transition to Co-Facilitating Retreats (00:05:21) Discussion on how they began co-facilitating retreats and integrating their skills. Why Retreats Over Other Wellness Businesses (00:05:56) Explaining the deeper impact of retreats compared to fitness or yoga classes. Mark's Growth & Their Yin-Yang Dynamic (00:06:57) Mark's journey into yoga and breathwork, and the couple's complementary energies. Choosing & Setting Up Their Retreat Property (00:08:40) How they selected, purchased, and set up their Arizona retreat property. Hosting Other Facilitators at Their Space (00:11:37) They welcome other retreat hosts and describe the support they provide. On-Site Support & Services for Retreat Hosts (00:12:04) Details about their on-site help, meal services, and understanding retreat logistics. Host's London Event Promo (00:13:00) Brief promotion for the host's upcoming retreat mastermind event in London. Why Retreat Centers Are Preferred (00:13:41) Host explains the advantages of retreat centers over Airbnb/Vrbo for hosting retreats. Challenges of Building & Planning as a Couple (00:14:55) Discussion about the challenges of planning and building a retreat space together. Staying in Their Lanes & Defining Roles (00:15:19) How they maintain boundaries, respect, and trust by sticking to their strengths. Industry Struggles & Oversaturation (00:17:06) Mark discusses industry oversaturation and the challenges of inexperienced hosts. Struggles of Working as a Couple (00:19:03) The couple shares the realities of being together constantly and how they communicate. Industry Growth & Differentiation (00:20:20) Host reflects on industry growth, competition, and the importance of differentiation. Staying in Lanes: Host's Personal Experience (00:24:29) Host shares her own experience working with her husband and the importance of defined roles. Living On-Site: Pros & Cons (00:26:32) Discussion about the benefits and challenges of living at the retreat property. Nature, Animals, and Sanctuary Vibes (00:27:10) Description of the property's natural setting, animals, and peaceful atmosphere. Being On-Site for Emergencies & Support (00:29:42) Anecdote about stepping in for a retreat host in need and the value of being on-site. Host's Perspective: Never Shutting Off (00:30:54) Host discusses the difficulty of separating work and home life when living on-site. Mark's Family Resort Experience (00:33:12) Mark relates his experience growing up around a family-run resort. Constant Upkeep & Business Mindset (00:34:07) The ongoing nature of property maintenance and always being in business mode. Special Offer for Listeners (00:35:20) Mark and Loni offer $500 off venue rental for podcast listeners.  

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Mark and Lana from Blisstopia Retreats to talk about what it really takes to co-facilitate powerful retreats—and build a business together without losing your minds (or your marriage). Mark and Lana share their journey from psychotherapy and martial arts to running over 60 retreats and living on-site at their stunning Arizona retreat villa. With over 7,000 sq ft of curated wellness space, they've built a business based on balance, service, and transformation. You'll hear: Why co-leading retreats is a dance of trust, clarity, and communication The pros and cons of living at your retreat property What makes a retreat center host different from a vacation rental owner Tips for thriving in a saturated retreat market A special offer just for podcast listeners Mention this episode and get $500 off a 3-day retreat rental at Blisstopia Retreats! Whether you host retreats solo, with a team, or dream of running your own retreat center, this convo will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how to lead with heart and strategy. Connect with Mark and Lana: https://www.blisstopiaretreats.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ----------------- Timestamps: Introducing the Guests: Mark & Loni (00:00:25) Host introduces Mark and Loni, a couple running a retreat business together. Loni's Background & Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:48) Loni shares her psychotherapy, wellness, and entrepreneurial background, and how she met Mark. Mark's Background & Transition to Retreats (00:03:28) Mark discusses his martial arts and coaching background, and their shift to retreats after the pandemic. Deciding to Open a Retreat Center (00:04:18) The couple describes the decision to sell everything and open a retreat center in Arizona. Transition to Co-Facilitating Retreats (00:05:21) Discussion on how they began co-facilitating retreats and integrating their skills. Why Retreats Over Other Wellness Businesses (00:05:56) Explaining the deeper impact of retreats compared to fitness or yoga classes. Mark's Growth & Their Yin-Yang Dynamic (00:06:57) Mark's journey into yoga and breathwork, and the couple's complementary energies. Choosing & Setting Up Their Retreat Property (00:08:40) How they selected, purchased, and set up their Arizona retreat property. Hosting Other Facilitators at Their Space (00:11:37) They welcome other retreat hosts and describe the support they provide. On-Site Support & Services for Retreat Hosts (00:12:04) Details about their on-site help, meal services, and understanding retreat logistics. Host's London Event Promo (00:13:00) Brief promotion for the host's upcoming retreat mastermind event in London. Why Retreat Centers Are Preferred (00:13:41) Host explains the advantages of retreat centers over Airbnb/Vrbo for hosting retreats. Challenges of Building & Planning as a Couple (00:14:55) Discussion about the challenges of planning and building a retreat space together. Staying in Their Lanes & Defining Roles (00:15:19) How they maintain boundaries, respect, and trust by sticking to their strengths. Industry Struggles & Oversaturation (00:17:06) Mark discusses industry oversaturation and the challenges of inexperienced hosts. Struggles of Working as a Couple (00:19:03) The couple shares the realities of being together constantly and how they communicate. Industry Growth & Differentiation (00:20:20) Host reflects on industry growth, competition, and the importance of differentiation. Staying in Lanes: Host's Personal Experience (00:24:29) Host shares her own experience working with her husband and the importance of defined roles. Living On-Site: Pros & Cons (00:26:32) Discussion about the benefits and challenges of living at the retreat property. Nature, Animals, and Sanctuary Vibes (00:27:10) Description of the property's natural setting, animals, and peaceful atmosphere. Being On-Site for Emergencies & Support (00:29:42) Anecdote about stepping in for a retreat host in need and the value of being on-site. Host's Perspective: Never Shutting Off (00:30:54) Host discusses the difficulty of separating work and home life when living on-site. Mark's Family Resort Experience (00:33:12) Mark relates his experience growing up around a family-run resort. Constant Upkeep & Business Mindset (00:34:07) The ongoing nature of property maintenance and always being in business mode. Special Offer for Listeners (00:35:20) Mark and Loni offer $500 off venue rental for podcast listeners. 

Mark interviews John Gaspard about his book HELD OVER: HAROLD AND MAUDE AT THE WESTGATE THEATER. Prior to the interview Mark shares a personal update and a word about this episode's sponsor. This episode's sponsor: This episode is sponsored by an affiliate link to Manuscript Report. Use code MARK5 at checkout and save $5.00 off your own personalized report. In the interview, Mark and John talk about: John's appreciation for the honesty of the podcast and one of his favorite episodes, and why he liked it John's background and the two different cozy mystery series that he has written and published The Eli Mark's "Behind the Page" podcast that John uses to share behind-the-scenes and brilliantly market the books in audio and other formats A person with a PhD in "shuffling cards" who was a guest on John's podcast How John approached his deep love and affection for the 1971 movie HAROLD AND MAUDE The Minneapolis theatre (Westgate) that helped make this movie a cult classic How John couldn't have written this book 20 years ago John's Popcorn Principals books The book HELD OVER: HAROLD AND MAUDE AT THE WESTGATE THEATER John's philosophy of "I'm writing for me." A bit of the history of the Westgate Theater The approach to his writing and recognizing that most of the books are likely not to earn much more than making back the initial money invested into them Deciding which researched bits made it into the book How Scrivener was a helpful tool in the writing of the book and various research elements The design company that John worked with on this book The Kickstarter that John ran related to this book and what it did for him (beyond earning a bit of up front money to help with funding the expensive project Working with Bookvault on the production of this book Advice John would offer to writers who haven't yet pursued that passion project And more... After the interview Mark reflects on passion projects, networking and connecting with other writers, and the advice to pause/hesitate   Links of Interest: John Gaspard's Website EP 218 - John Gaspard on Business, Writing, and Magic Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation   John Gaspard is author of the Eli Marks mystery series and the Como Lake Players mystery series. He also has several other stand-alone novels, including “The Greyhound of the Baskervilles,” “A Christmas Carl,” “The Sword & Mr. Stone” and “The Ripperologists.” He hosts: "Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast." In real life, John's not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less - that's no small trick. He's also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films. John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Steve Burns' new podcast Alive grabbed attention with a teaser clip, and it got us thinking: what makes some stories stick instantly? We break down why his moment connected, whether audio flaws matter as much as we believe, and why relatability often outweighs production polish. We also highlight a case study from community member Sid, who is testing a website redesign to see if it shifts listener engagement. The conversation ends with a more significant question: when your show changes, is it really the branding that matters, or the way you let your audience see more of who you are?Episode Highlights: [02:03] Empowered Podcasting Conference [06:05] Analyzing Steve Burns' Podcast Clip[09:48] Discussion on Audio Quality in Podcasts[25:11] Amanda's TikTok Journey[27:49] Sid's Website Analytics Discovery[30:24] Website Changes and Podcast Analytics[43:14] Deciding on Podcast Rebranding[51:20] Character and Authenticity in PodcastingLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Get Your Tickets for The Empowered Podcasting Conference:www.empoweredpodcasting.comSteve Burns with Hospice Nurse Julie: www.instagram.com/reel/DOra66kAYB-/?igsh=aTJ0dzNjNG9uaGt6Alive With Steve Burns: https://lemonadamedia.com/show/alive-with-steve-burnsAmanda Sharp on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@amandaannsharp?_t=ZT-8zpRa3Gv1Re&_r=1The Trend Report with Sid Meadows: www.sidmeadows.com/episode163Unconventional Leaders with Heather Parady: www.heatherparady.com/podcastRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

Sign up for Jacobs Premium: thenathanjacobspodcast.comIn this postscript to his anthropology and ethics series, Dr. Jacobs examines why people experience discomfort when confronted with moral assessments that challenge their preferred behaviors or beliefs. He draws parallels between objective aesthetics and ethics, arguing that humans possess default intuitions about justice and fairness that create psychological tension when their actions conflict with moral reality. Dr. Jacobs discusses the problems of confirmation bias and social pressure in ethical reasoning, advocating for beginning moral inquiry with foundational metaphysical questions rather than applied ethics. The episode concludes with practical considerations for personal ethical development, distinguishing between philosophical assessment, political implications, and pastoral guidance in the gradual cultivation of virtue.All the links: Substack: https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastWebsite: https://www.nathanajacobs.com/X: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanandrewjacobsAcademia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobs00:00:00 Intro 00:01:24 Objective aesthetics 00:05:25 The human yearn for justice 00:15:39 Resisting confirmation bias 00:23:26 Analyzing at level 4 00:26:59 The cognitive minority 00:36:52 Deciding how to live00:40:19 Politics and morality 00:43:06 Forming in virtue 

Marketing isn't a vending machine—and Kathleen Schaub wants leaders to stop treating it like one. In this episode of Tomorrow's Best Practices Today, host Clark Newby sits down with Kathleen Schaub, author of Marketing in the Great, Big, Messy, Real World, to unpack why deterministic thinking fails and what modern CMOs must do differently.Kathleen draws on decades of experience advising global marketing leaders and shares insights from her new book, including four key mindset shifts:- Budgeting like an investor rather than an accountant- Planning like a navigator who adapts to changing conditions- Deciding like a statistician who understands probabilities, not certainties- Leading like an ecologist who creates thriving team ecosystemsTogether, Clark and Kathleen explore why the obsession with ROI as a vending machine input-output model is misguided, how marketing metrics should spark dialogue—not dictate it—and why agility at the “edges” of the business is where real progress happens.Order Kathleen's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Marketing-Great-Messy-Real-World/dp/1632999862/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BSH939U2QNL1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QsAFE2-s7Vf4DwX3HtjKPD-5jwgkt-_m9H2efEkaqOg.YKXKMuYL6Vc-3NhSIB4d2LGEsMAmQYvPF6gzhQfuY5U&dib_tag=se&keywords=marketing+in+the+great%2C+big%2C+messy+real+world&qid=1756933798&sprefix=marketing+in+the+great+messy+%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-1-----CONNECT with us at:Website: https://leadtail.com/Leadtail TV: https://www.leadtailtv.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead...Twitter: https://twitter.com/leadtailFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Leadtail/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadtail/----0:00 – Introduction and Guest Overview1:19 – Why Marketing Is Not a Vending Machine2:24 – Complexity and the VUCA World of Marketing3:16 – Moving Beyond Deterministic Models5:00 – Four Mindset Shifts for Marketing Leaders6:29 – Budgeting Like an Investor6:41 – Planning and Measurement: Think Like a Navigator7:47 – Decision-Making: Think Like a Statistician9:12 – People and Ecosystems: Leading Like an Ecologist17:01 – Rethinking Metrics and Board-Level Conversations22:10 – Overcoming Resistance and Gaining Executive Buy-In26:18 – The Role of Data, Analytics, and AI in Complex Systems29:26 – Structuring Teams for Agility and Integration33:01 – Kathleen's Personal Reading List35:15 – Closing Thoughts and Book Information#b2bmarketing #b2b

How do you manage growing pains when bringing on a new employee while keeping your business running smoothly? That's the question one listener asked, and it's one many designers face when adding their first junior designer. Stepping into leadership, delegating effectively, and staying productive can feel like a delicate balance, especially when client projects and daily design work don't pause for training.   This episode kicks off a two-part Q&A series following CEO Summer School. I dive into practical strategies for onboarding and managing a new team member, pinpointing where delegation often breaks down, and building systems that actually work. I also tackle how to make major business decisions when multiple exciting paths are available, whether that's growing your current business, pivoting to support other designers, or niching down further.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/152   For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

What happens when a self-proclaimed couch potato decides to plunge into some of the coldest waters on earth? You get Ryan Stramrood, world record ice swimmer, Antarctic adventurer, and performance coach who's redefined what it means to push past impossible.In this episode of Decidedly, we dive deep (literally and figuratively) into Ryan's journey from ordinary beginnings in Cape Town to becoming one of the world's most acclaimed extreme swimmers. Along the way, Ryan shares how the freezing waters of Antarctica, the English Channel, and countless Robben Island crossings taught him the truth about fear, resilience, and decision making under pressure.If you've ever wanted to know where real growth happens – in business, leadership, and life – this conversation will change the way you think about your limits.KEY TOPICSWhy cold water exposes the real limits of the human mind and bodyThe difference between your “mind's endpoint” and your true endpoint, and where the magic happensHow to train your brain to stay calm under extreme stress and discomfortWhat endurance swimming teaches us about leadership, decision making, and business growthThe importance of finishing the process, and why the hardest part comes after the swimCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction06:30 The Mental and Physical Impact of Cold Water13:00 Pushing Past the Mind's Endpoint17:30 Lessons from the Robben Island Swim21:00 English Channel vs. Everest25:40 Training the Body & Mind for Extreme Cold30:00 Finding Flow and Spiritual Connection37:00 Lessons in Decision Making from Extreme Swimming40:00 Near-Death Experiences and Respecting Limits45:00 Swimming Antarctica: The Coldest Challenge52:00 The After Drop and Recovery57:00 Business Takeaways: Growth Happens in DiscomfortIf you've ever wondered how to face fear, embrace discomfort, and discover what's possible beyond your limits, this is an episode you don't want to miss.#Mindset #Leadership #ExtremeSports #DecidedlyPodcast #RyanStramroodCONNECT WITH USwww.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn's Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger's Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MOREwww.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAILJoin us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode at a time!CONNECT WITH RYANInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan_stramrood/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strammie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-stramrood-6375704/?originalSubdomain=za Website: https://ryanstramrood.com/ Ryan Stramrood is a world-renowned extreme swimmer from Cape Town who has completed 144 Robben Island crossings, the English Channel, and the first official “Ice Mile” in Antarctica. Once a self-described couch potato, his journey from everyday beginnings to record-breaking cold-water feats reveals the extraordinary power of grit, mindset, and pushing past perceived limits. Today, Ryan shares his story as an inspiring speaker, showing audiences that growth begins where comfort ends — and that the impossible is often closer than we think.

In this episode, the Operators break down how to build a world-class product development organization. They dive into how to structure your product team and debate who should own the process from idea to launch. They also tackle the classic question of whether your strategy should be marketing-led or product-led.Drawing from their own expensive mistakes and huge successes, the hosts share hard-won lessons on the toughest challenge of all: choosing what to make. They share their strategies for balancing groundbreaking 'hero' products with simple, iterative improvements. They also explain the critical difference between products designed to acquire new customers (CAC products) and those built to increase customer lifetime value (LTV products).Chapters:00:00 Introduction05:45 How to Structure Your Product Team19:21 Deciding What to Make30:16 Learning from Wins And Fails44:16 The "Ready to Launch" DilemmaPowered By:Fulfil.io.https://bit.ly/3pAp2vuThe Only Cloud ERP Designed to Efficiently Scale 8 and 9-Figure Brands. Northbeam.https://www.northbeam.io/Postscript.https://postscript.io/Richpanel.https://www.richpanel.com/?utm_source=9O&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ytdescSaras.https://saras-analytics.typeform.com/to/T8jpuAEb?utm_source=9operator_lp&utm_medium=find_out_moreSubscribe to The Marketing Operators Podcast here:https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingOperatorsSubscribe to The Finance Operators here:https://www.youtube.com/@FinanceOperatorsFOPSSign up to the 9 Operators newsletter here:https://9operators.com/

Josh and Jessica Guptill run Rehoboth Farm in Suffolk, Virginia, where they raise pastured chicken, pork, lamb, beef, eggs, and turkeys. Neither came from a farming family - Josh left the Coast Guard and Jessica is a doula - but together they built their farm from backyard beginnings, guided by faith and a belief in producing “healing food.” Their path is unique: from DIY chicken pluckers and bartering for land to scaling up during COVID, they've made transparency and education central to their work. Today they not only provide nutrient-dense food but also host workshops and farm visits, giving their community a firsthand connection to how food is grown.This episode we discuss:What backyard chickens taught them about the realities of food productionHow different animals (chickens, pigs, sheep, cattle) work together to regenerate landWhy transparency and on-farm visits build trust between farmers and eatersThe role of farmers' markets, and what separates thriving ones from failing onesHow faith and community shape their vision of farming as a vocationTimestamps:00:00:00 Josh & Jessica's backstory and first encounters with farming00:07:00 Early challenges raising and butchering chickens00:13:00 Deciding to leave the Coast Guard and pursue farming00:19:00 Finding and moving onto their current Virginia farm00:25:00 Scaling up chickens, pigs, and lamb during COVID00:33:00 Why their farmers' market works—and why others fail00:40:00 Marketing, transparency, and building customer trust00:48:00 The meaning behind the name “Rehoboth Farm”00:53:00 Questions consumers should ask at farmers' markets01:00:00 Hosting on-farm classes and why visits matterWebsiteInstagramFacebook

At age 55, Belgian runner Hilde Dosogne set out to break boundaries — and did just that.  In 2024, she ran 366 marathons in 366 days, earning her the title of Guinness World Record holder for most consecutive marathons in a year.  What makes Hilde's journey so extraordinary is not just the distance she covered, but the relentless dedication she showed while working part-time and managing her daily life with laser-focused discipline. Known as Marathon Woman 366, Hilde didn't grow up in a sporty family. In fact, she didn't seriously take up running until her 40s. But once she did, she never looked back — moving from her first marathon with her husband in 2013 to ultra events like the Marathon des Sables and the legendary Spartathlon in Greece. Inspired by endurance runner Candice Burt, who ran an ultra a day, Hilde set a goal that was bold yet (just) manageable alongside her career — a marathon every single day for an entire year.  From battling injuries and illness, to running through Belgian storms and even dislocating a finger mid-run, Hilde's story is one of mental toughness, resilience, and unwavering self-belief. In this episode, Hilde shares: Why she decided to take on this incredible challenge How she structured her days and managed recovery The highs and lows of running every single day The mental strategies that helped her keep going Her thoughts on aging, performance, and redefining what's possible at 55 The deep sense of joy and freedom she finds in running Hilde's story is a reminder that it's never too late to start something extraordinary — and that the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves.  New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM UK time. Subscribe and be inspired by stories of women pushing their physical and mental limits across adventure, endurance, and exploration.  Support the mission to increase the visibility of female role models in adventure and sport: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Show notes Who is Hilde Living in Belgium 55 years old Married with 4 children aged between 18 and 26 years old Working in a chemical company and being passionate about running Being known as Marathon Woman 366 Not growing up in a sporty family and not being encouraged to do sports when she was younger Getting into running after her children were growing up  Being focused on building up her career and raising her children  Reaching 40 years old and wanting to lose some weight and deciding to run a marathon with her husband in 2013 How her running progressed and wanting to run more marathons and then wanting to run faster and then further Getting a lot of satisfaction from achieving her goals and pushing her limits Deciding to run the coastline of Belgium - 74km Wanting to know what else she could do  Deciding to run the Marathon des Sables in Morocco  Struggling with sleep in the open tent, and dealing with the sandstorm and the noisy people in the tent Running Spartathlon Ultra Race  Running from Athens to Sparta - having 36 hrs to complete the race  Needing to qualify for the Spartathlon Running 170km in 24 hrs in 2022 Running the race again in 2023 and running 1 hr faster than the year before Being inspired by Candice Burt running an ultra marathon everyday  Realising that running an ultra marathon a day would take up too much time everyday Deciding to run a marathon everyday and break a world record  Feeling that running a marathon everyday would be achievable while working at the same time Starting to plan for the event in summer 2024 - wanting to run with other people  Applying to Guinness World Records and figuring out the logistics for evidence  The time commitment involved and trying to run with other people  Being commitment to the hours she was running  The hard days, especially when she was feeling sick  Dealing with stomach pain and covid.  Falling while running and dislocating her finger  Dealing with bad weather especially at the start of the year  Struggling with her sleep and feeling too excited from the running both physically and emotionally  Sleeping during her lunch break Needing to have her days very strictly scheduled  The time commitment of running, social media and the info for Guinness World Records The mindset of taking on a daily challenge like this Her resilience coming from having a strict childhood and being very disciplined Seeing her running as a job  Feeling gratitude for while she was running  Raising funds for breast cancer patients  Being supported by the people who ran with her and also supported via social media  Daily recovery strategies - having a recovery shake, baths, stretching and a massage 1x per week Being supported by her husband in the house  Getting to the end of 366 marathons Running the last week in pain, due to a hamstring injury  Preparing an event for the last day Her body was telling her to stop running  Stopping running on the 1st January 2025  Feeling very happy that it was over! Getting back into running/walking 10 days later  Wanting to do the Spartathlon for the 3rd time Becoming the 24hrs running Belgium Champion  Listening to podcasts and music to pass the time Not experiencing many affects from perimenopause and menopause  Nutrition and fuelling while running a marathon everyday  Which is harder running a fast 5k or running a longer distance? Stretching, foam rolling, core stability exercises and bike riding The biggest lessons learned from taking on this challenge Why the human body can do much more than what we think Doing this challenge at 55 years old Running an average time of 4hrs 5 mins for each marathon Why you can start running at any age Training for the Spartathlon 2025 with a running coach  Running coach Benny Fisher   How to connect with Hilde on line Words of advice for runners The mind is stronger than the body If you think you can't anymore, you have to think you can do it. Even if you are at a low point in a race. You need to know that it can get better. Why the only reason to stop is if you have a serious injury. Believe that it can get better Think about how you will feel when you give up  Think about the people that support you and they will be very happy that you finish and disappointed if you don't Do it for a charity, so you know you are not only doing it for yourself.  You have to be strong psychically and mentally Prepare yourself for the difficult moments in the race and think through all the different scenarios that could happen   Social Media Website: www.hildedosogne.be/en  Instagram: @marathonwoman366/  Facebook: @marathonwoman.2024  Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/51029211  

Confused by all the mixed messages about health—protein vs. plants, heavy vs. light weights, fasting vs. frequent meals? You're not alone. In this episode, I share six best practices that have worked for me and my clients to simplify eating, strength, sleep, protein, tracking, and mindset. You'll learn how to cut through the noise, stop second-guessing yourself, and confidently choose what's right for your body and life.✨ Enrollment closes today for my Ready for Change group coaching program—the last group I'm running this year. Don't miss your chance to join us! Learn more and enroll HEREClick Here for Ready for Change Experience Enrollment Information: https://mailchi.mp/32d8807b092b/rfcseptemberInterested in speaking with me about how we can work together? Click here to head to my website: https://courtneygraycoaching.com/ and schedule a free consultation with me.

Georgy-Porgy gets his wish, and more.by jane700bond. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. It had started not long after the Double Necromancy lesson began. Only Slither-In alumni tended to take Necromancy, because of its dark reputation. It involves communing with dead spirits and summoning demons and the like. Unlike the Divinity classroom, which had tables and benches with enough room, as Ariella had discovered, for under the table Kama Sutra practice, the Necromancy classroom had modern writing tablet chairs. They were set in a curve in front of the teacher's desk.It is said that the reason the Necromancy classroom was gifted with modern furniture was that a couple of years back, the appearance of a particularly fiery demon had incinerated the old furniture in the room.Dr. Snake, former House Master of Slither-In, was the teacher and Lucille, who had already learnt much more advanced Necromancy from her evil genius father than Snake would ever teach, found her mind wandering back to her competition with Ariella, as to who would become ‘Sex Goddess of Briarwood College'.Lucille had been introduced to Defence Against Dark Arts, Snake (or DADA as he was affectionately known by his favourite students) when she had first arrived the previous day. However, there were so many new things to look at and take in that she had not taken much notice of this tall, languid, saturnine figure. Now, Lucille, already bored by the lesson, began to look at Snake properly and started to size him up. She knew she would need him on her side if she were to win the competition, but she was sure she had the necessary wiles and ways that would easily bind the teacher to her cause.There were only four pupils in the glass, two other gals and a guy and they sat with rapt attention as Snake stood and talked animatedly about demons and succubus and their dangers. Lucille sat to the left of the semi-circle.From the way his dark eyes seemed continually drawn to her, clocking the small amount of skin exposed just above her pert breasts and then looking away again, Lucille thought he was just the right sort of pervert who willingly, or unwillingly, could soon become another one of her slaves. All it needed was temptation to be strewn in his way. Therefore, deciding to be decidedly wicked, Lucille silently formed a glamour in her mind and, as she started to radiate her magical sex appeal, she slid her ass forward a little in her chair so as to extend the amount of leg she was showing. It was just by an inch or so, but the movement caught the teacher's eye and he appeared to be contemplating the dark depths under her kilt beyond the honey-toned skin of her knees and partially exposed thighs. “Naughty!” she thought.After a few minutes, Lucille lazily lifted a hand to the top button of her blouse and, making sure Snake was watching, deliberately undid the top button and pushed her taut bosom forward towards him, stretching the cotton of her blouse and exposing the dark crevice of her cleavage and the white of her bra. Snake, looked away and tried to concentrate on his other three students, but they were not any competition to Lucille's sun-goddess beauty and the force of the glamour.The glamour was a spell her father had taught her some years ago and was a way of becoming irresistible to her target. She had used it a lot since her father's arrest. The strength of her glamour was one of the main reasons she had managed to escape the clutches of the Gendarmerie Magique and seduce her way across the English Channel.Inevitably after a few moments cum-to-me DADA's eyes were drawn back as Lucille lifted a leg and crossed it over the other exposing an extensive amount of the smooth tanned skin of her thigh and a hint of the curve of her ass. Snake rallied with a question to one of the other two gals in the class, but they were no competition to the glamour Lucille was exuding into the classroom ever more strongly.Snake faltered in his speech and shuddered as Lucille winked sexily at him while she pulled her kilt still further up her thigh, uncrossed her legs and leaning further back pushed her nearly exposed pubis towards him. The other students could not help but notice and they too stared open-mouthed at the dame as she undid another button on her blouse and blew Snake a kiss. Lucille looked around the class at her fellow pupils to see if she had any natural allies among them. There were three, Henry, a tall big hulking guy with a scarred face and crooked nose who looked as though he had fought in more than just magic battles, most likely a Quidditch player she thought. With a little frisson of excitement, Lucille imagined that under his clothes Henry was probably both well-endowed and muscular.There were also two dark-haired coeds, Priti and Sabrina, both slim and young looking. Priti was the smaller, very underdeveloped with little showing in terms of breasts. Sabrina, was a little taller and probably a 32 b. They, in the same way the hulk was not the most handsome of guys, were also not the prettiest gals. They both sported a mono-brow over deep set dark brown eyes and had thin unsmiling lips. But Lucille reckoned that all three of them had the potential to make obedient disciples. She could tempt the dames with some magic beautification, it was amazing what you could do with a wand. Cosmetic surgery was in its infancy compared to her powers.“Miss l'Astique,” rallied Snake “are you too warm?” It appeared he could no longer resist and came closer to her, dark eyes peering at the exposed cleavage and the still hidden mystery covered with the white mounds of her bra.Not really wanting the teacher to make a pass at her as she sat in the classroom, she lifted her wand surreptitiously under her writing tablet and, when Snake was looking as though he might lunge for her, with a sweeping movement she flung a spell at him. “Tempus non-flugit!” she incanted quietly and Dr. Snake came to a halt arm half-way through a movement towards her.The others pupils were aghast and the hulk started to rise from his desk. “What the …” he started and stood up, but Lucille was pointing her wand at him whilst his own was still in his bag.“Quiet!” she commanded. “This class is dead-boring and I thought that I might liven things up!” She pointed at the hulk and incanted her favourite disrobing spell “Pantus expeliamus!” At which Henry's large kilt flew way leaving him exposed as even more as well-endowed than Lucille had imagined. The guy flushed and tried to hide his exposed genitals with his large hands.Lucille, could not resist the follow-up spell “Gorgeous giganticus.” She intoned and the Henry's manhood shot its way from behind his hands and stood a good sixteen inches out in-front of him, as straight as a dagger, and as thick as a cucumber.The two gals giggled and Lucille knew she had them on-side.“Oi!” protested the guy, “Fuck you bitch, what you playing at!”Lucille, pushed her tongue out from between her lips and said huskily with the full hit of her Gallic suave, “You said it! We are playing ‘fuck you bitch'! You want to fuck all three of us? What about it, ladies?” That silenced Henry who straightened and moved his hands away to let his manhood standout with pride.“Fuck all three of you?” Henry asked not believing his luck.Lucille started to undo her kilt fastener and then exposed her baby-smooth pubis to the guy, who stood still and rampant and breathing rather hard. She then undid her blouse and removed her bra to expose her perfect pert breasts.“Wow!” said the hulk as Lucille approached and took his massive manhood in both hands, giving it long strokes up and down the length.The other two dames stood astonished for the moment and then moved closer to watch, standing on either side of Lucille, fascinated by Henry's enormous dong, all four of them ignoring the frozen statue-lie Snake standing tall behind them.Priti, very short and petite spoke first: “How do you fit something so big inside you?” She wondered.Lucille smiled and replied: “It's amazing what you can do if you're well-lubed and really desperate for a fuck. The female of the species is amazing when she wants sex.”Priti looked disbelieving at the rock-hard monster and swallowed. She loved being fucked, but the thought of this whopper made her eyes water.“Want to feel it?” asked Lucille and the petite dame nodded eagerly, moved forward and experimented with moving her hand up and down the hulking shaft as Henry moaned in pleasure. The skin was soft and pliable and Priti started to play with the head, gradually pushing back the foreskin to reveal its glistening crown. Priti who's hips were barely 28 inches round and who only stood a little over five foot was both fascinated and attracted and yet horrified by the enormous dick.Sabrina, who was lesbian, really fancied the new French student. Standing on the other side of Lucille's naked body she nervously started to caress the witch's beautiful honey-toned skin. “You're so soft!” Sabrina exclaimed, “You skin is like satin and, wow, you are so beautiful.”Lucille's glamour was working on them all and she smiled to herself satisfied.Like an acrobat, Lucille suddenly cartwheeled into the air, twisted and landed legs astride of Henry's dick, feet on the floor with her back to him. She reached up and back and pulled his head down to meet hers and started to kiss him deeply while he bent forward, his massive arms pressing into her perfect breasts.The monstrous cock began to throb between her legs, but being so long, there was still the length of an ordinary big cock still exposed beyond Lucille's cunt and Priti again moved forward and started to massage it.Sabrina came and joined her. “It's so huge, I wonder if we could all ride it at once?” she asked quietly as her hand followed the length up until where it met Lucille's cunt lips which she nervously began to massage. The lips were beginning to open, leaving a glistening wetness where her slit moved over the soft skin. Lucille smiled encouragingly as Sabrina nervously put a finger into Lucille's flowing sex-juices and then lifted it to her mouth to taste the honey.The taste was instant magic and she knew she wanted to make mad passionate love with the beautiful strawberry blonde. Deciding that the opportunity was too good to waste, Sabrina quickly undressed and facing Lucille, put her leg over Henry's meat machine and pressed herself up to French bitch, enjoying the satin, silky feeling of the gorgeous dame's body against her own. She put her arms around her and grabbed and massaged Lucille's ass as the pair moved in unison along the shaft. The throbbing between her legs started her own juices running as she move her slit up and down part of the great length, deliberately pressing her clit against Lucille at each opportunity, each clit becoming harder and more sensitive with each encounter.Sabrina got her wish and Lucille shared her hot deep kisses with her too, massaging her small rosy immature nipples and teasing her to ecstasy.With two chicks now astride his dick and with being the most beautiful babe he had ever seen, kissing him passionately, Henry felt wonderful as the involuntary throbbing of his machine became more pronounced. His hips began to move and he started to thrust back and forth between the two gals' legs. Each thrust became smoother as the honey lubrication from their pussies massaged the shaft.Priti looked at the remaining six to nine inches that kept appearing and disappearing between Sabrina's cheeks as Sabrina's ass moved along the length. This size was a bit more manageable she thought and following the example of the other's stripped herself naked and with relish and mounting excitement at the thought of being fucked, took the head of the beast in her mouth and started sucking and teasing the cock.Sabrina was enjoying herself, the throbbing of the cock stimulating her clit like a vibrator and now being able to suck and tease Lucille's beautiful tits was a something she wouldn't have dreamed of before today.Lucille was smiling to herself as she knew she had gained three loyal sex slaves who were in thrall to her glamour. She reached out for one of Sabrina's hands and raising herself slightly got the lass to start on opening her cunt more with her fingers and to massage her clit with her thumb. Meanwhile, Henry thrust his hips back and forth under the two babe's slits and now, to his mounting excitement, the end went straight into Priti's warm welcome mouth.Priti may not have been pretty, but she now knew she wanted more than a suck. She wanted a fuck! She left her horn-blowing after one particular thrust hit the back of her throat uncomfortably and pulled a chair around in front of the pounding piston. She was still unsure any of it would fit inside her small body and so took her magic wand and used a spell to create an aromatic oil.Some of this she used to lube the head of Henry's corker and then she knelt on the chair. Inserting the wand into her own cunt and with its magic oil she prepared herself for the monster by using her fingers to probe inside, oiling herself deep within and widening her love passage as her excitement mounted.Finally, a little nervously, Priti exposed her fully-opened well-oiled cunt to the thrust of the machine. She moved herself backwards so the cock was pushing against her eager vagina. Then, gradually she wriggled and worked the huge head past her cunt lips and then deeper and deeper into herself, her hand now frantically masturbating her clit with more of the oil as her excitement built.After some minutes of increasing pleasure, Priti was aware of a sudden coolness at her backside as Sabrina deftly dismounted the cock behind her, leaving more room for it to press even deeper into her welcoming sex cave. Inch by inch, she pushed back with each thrust forward. Sabrina deftly used her tongue around Priti's cunt lips to ease its passage in. Priti could feel an orgasm growing as more and more of the monster worked its way into her tiny body. The throbbing and thrusting never ceasing in intensity as she whimpered with mounting excitement. Finally, she thrust herself back one final time and her ass met Lucille's hot naked body as the young witch still sat astride Henry behind her.Lucille was really turned on and enjoying the sight of the massive organ thrusting slowly and deeply in and out of the petite teenage body in long sensuous strokes. She could feel a wildness in her mounting excitement.Lucille leant forward and grabbed Priti's nipples from behind and twisted them roughly, making the lass gasp in pain and pleasure. Sabrina went under the lass and started tonguing Priti's clit as with hand over her mouth Priti issued a long silent scream of orgasm. After some minutes of delight as the orgasm subsided and shuddering in time with the still throbbing penis, she worked her way back up the massive length. The thrusting was lessened and using the back of the chair for leverage she felt the massive head slowly, sensuously moving back and out of her.Finally, she came off the piston with a pop and fell into Sabrina's arms who caught her before she collapsed on the floor and lay there panting, her heart throbbing like a wild thing and her love tube pulsing with delight.Then it was Lucille's turn to kneel on the chair and feel the giant member enter her from behind. Sabrina stood in front of her and massaging Lucille's breasts, offered her own nipples to Lucille's mouth. Sabrina loved being suckled by another gal and this time it was a goddess who was sucking her hard; her tits were turning red from the rough attention.Lucille began to shudder as Henry got into a faster and more urgent rhythm, her fingers fucking Sabrina in time with each enormous thrust. She was loving this wild sex and rode Henry with abandonment as he penetrated her more deeply and easily than with Priti.Unbelievably and with almost superhuman strength and agility Lucille lifted Sabrina bodily and turned her upside down so she could bury her face in the gal's wet, wet cunt. As Henry went into Lucille, Lucille's tongue went deep into Sabrina cunt, deeper than Sabrina could believe while Lucille's nose rubbed hard on Sabrina's clit. As Henry pulled out, Lucille sucked at the other gal's cunt drinking in the juices like a wildcat. Sabrina, had legs in the air on either side of Lucille's head, her sex clamped to Lucille's mouth by arms that grabbed her arse with seemingly superhuman strength. Sabrina's head was dangling below looking along the length back to Henry's enormous balls swinging wildly as his lunges became faster and more desperate. She started to spark with an emerging climax. One of Sabrina's hands found Lucille's clit and began rubbing the large hard bullet frantically trying to bring Lucille to orgasm so they could cum together.Lucille finally came in a frenzy of paroxysms, with her tongue deep inside Sabrina. This is what she wanted; this is what she lived for. Lucille the sex goddess of all the Earth. Henry, feeling the dame's orgasm pulled out rapidly just before losing his load. His giant dong sprayed sperm into the open mouth of Sabrina underneath Lucille, giving her the her first taste of jizz. He sprayed more over her face and on her red and engorged tits.Lucille desperate for the taste of spunk, clambered off the chair, letting Sabrina's legs fall onto the floor and then she was on top of the lass, eagerly sucking Henry's cum from a startled Sabrina's mouth, drinking it eagerly like a sperm vampire. Then using the cum from Sabrina's body she eagerly finger fucked the plainer lass to orgasm with a cum-oiled hand. Sabrina, couldn't yell as Lucille's tongue was deep in her mouth, but she bucked, her body jerking wildly as the orgasm finally hit her.There was some moaning as finally they lay still. The waves of pleasure and of pain gradually receding. Suddenly Priti asked “What about DADA!”.All of their heads spun around. The teacher still stood frozen in the same position; time seemingly had not passed at all for him. Lucille thought for a few moments and then said, “I know I'll trap him so he's powerless to do anything against us. Everyone get dressed and get back to the same position you were in when I zapped him.”The students quickly followed her instructions and then watched with horror and fascination as she undid Snake's zip and pulled his dick out. She massaged it until it stood erect and then worked it with her mouth and tongue, seeming to enjoy giving the teacher a blow job. Finally, with his dick hard and rigid, she sat down back in her chair, arranged herself demurely and took out her wand.She swept her wand before her incanting “Cum avex tempus flugit.” She then gave a mighty scream, as she hid the wand and Snake's snake let cum fly over her cleavage. “Sir!” she screamed “How dare you! What are you doing you perv!”A confused Snake looked about bewildered and took in the sight of his swaying boner spraying sperm over his newest pupil's neck and face and all the class screaming at him. Not believing what he saw, he packed himself away as quickly as possible and rushed out of the class as if all the demons of Hell were on his tail.“Sabrina! Priti!” Lucille called “Please come and lick this sperm off me.” Like supplicants, the two lasses came and knelt on either side of their sex goddess and carefully licked away the remains of their House master's cum. Henry smiled benignly at the sight and felt his manhood stretching again under his kilt as he watched. And then the bell rang for the end of the lesson.It was night-time and George couldn't sleep. His mind kept going back to the Divinity class when he had lost his virginity to Ariella. George had never really got on with females. He wanted to, but babes never seemed to like him. They called him Georgy-Porgy, even though he wasn't fat. They made up rhymes about him and laughed at him in giggling cliques, whispering secrets that he was never told. The problem was that George was a lech and the chicks all distinctively knew it. He was always looking at them with a leer that said he was mentally undressing them, which of course he was! He was a toucher, and took every opportunity to rub against a hottie in a tight spot in a corridor, or - as this morning - putting his hand in inappropriate places.But today had been different! Ariella had sat on his hand, but instead of leaping off, as he had expected, she had ground her wet sopping cunt onto his fingers and forced his thumb deep inside her. And if that was not enough, she had sucked and fucked him in class under the table. It was the first time he had fucked a chick; the first time he had even felt a chick's cunt and he now wanted more. If Ariella had fucked him once, surely, he could fuck her again. He wanted to fill Ariella with his cum; in her hot cunt, in her mouth. He wanted to cum all over her tits. He wanted to kiss her and rub his body all over hers.Georgy-Porgy couldn't sleep because his head was whirling with the fantasy he was creating and his cock hurt from having a constant erection. A wank was no good, he wanted to find her room and fuck her brains out.As he climbed out of bed and covered his nakedness with a dressing gown, he briefly wondered what had happened to Ariella after Miss Peacock had ordered Ariella to follow her from class.At the same time George began his night-time excursion, Ariella was not having difficulty sleeping. She was fast asleep in Dave's single bed with the guy's arms wrapped around her naked body. They had made love slowly and sensuously and now, after they had both cum in unison, slept the deep contented sleep of lovers.Earlier in the night Ariella had been in the study she shared with Lucille and could get no peace. Sabrina and Priti where there and they were simpering to Lucille's every wish as she used her magic to subtlety transform them from being just plain to her ideal of beautiful. The change to a curve of an eyebrow, the pout of a lip, a slight raising of a cheekbone, a finesse to the chin and the two gals were being transformed by Lucille, bit by bit to be worthy to be her acolytes, or, more likely, French courtesans.Ariella, could not cope with the oohs and ahs, the little screams of delight, the fights over the mirror, nor the fawning Lucille received from her slaves. She had sat on her bed alone for a bit thinking about what had happened when she had followed Miss Peacock from the classroom after she had fucked the awful Georgy-Porgy. She knew it had been a mistake, but his fingers and thumb under her ass just reactivated her seemingly unsatiable sex-drive and she just wanted to cum and cum again, whoever it was with.Ariella had been scared as the confident Miss Peacock marched along the corridors to her own private room. She had butterflies in her stomach and she was utterly ashamed of being caught having salacious sex in Miss Peacock's class, especially with the loathsome Georgy Porgy who was always trying tricks on the gals and was thoroughly disliked. It would mean expulsion!Ariella had been aware that the back of her blouse was somewhat damp and that the insides of her smooth thighs were wet and slippery from both her own sex juices and George's newly delivered large eruption of spunk that was now dribbling out of her cunt. If she had been wearing knickers it would not have been so much of a problem, but being naked under her kilt, there was nothing to stop the slow slippery descent of creamy gunk towards her knees.Miss Peacock's room, being an old dungeon, was dark with small high windows letting in a little sunlight from above. The walls were mainly stone, but with dark panelling around an enormous ancient fireplace, which had deep easy chairs in front of it. A few severe looking portraits hung on the walls. Sconces held candles and a candelabra was hanging centrally over a carved oak table which had four chairs, two down each side. There was also a desk covered in grimoires. There were two other doors which, Ariella assumed would lead to a bedroom and bathroom.Miss Peacock gave a wave of her wand and the gloom lifted as the candles sparked with a non-consuming magical flame from which a musky, almost sensuous scent, filled the air. She looked the rather dishevelled Ariella up and down and sniffed. “I think you may smell like a brothel,” she said “but I wouldn't know because I have never visited one. Rather you smell of sex, you randy little sex maniac, your aroma is all cunt juice, sperm and mating pheromones. Did you really think you could fuck in my class unnoticed?” She asked sternly stepping closer to the lass.Ariella thought for a moment that Miss Peacock would strike her and she backed up against the end of the table. But instead, Miss Peacock pounced forward and with fast efficient, almost desperate fingers, started undoing the top buttons on Ariella's tight blouse. Before the coed could object the teacher quickly pulled it up and over the gal's head, the movement pushing the Ariella's bra upwards so that her breasts came free of the cups. They dangled down as the blouse cuffs caught on her wrists and she had to bend forward as Miss Peacock struggled to pull the blouse off over her head.“Whaa!” went Ariella in surprise as the garment finally came free and she straightened up, trying to cover her breasts with her arms. But the young teacher just carried on oblivious of any protest and grabbing the loosened bra, also pulled that over Ariella's head in a swift motion.“Silence!” she said sternly to the buxom babe. “Gertrude! Here, now!” she shoute

This week on Two Parents & A Podcast, we're doing something a little different… we're releasing a (previously unreleased) episode we recorded ONE YEAR AGO, the night before Tate was born. We tried to capture every thought, fear, and feeling leading up to the biggest moment of our lives—and answer the most asked questions we were getting at the time!!!  In this time capsule of a conversation, we share why we decided to schedule an induction, what we'd tell ourselves at the start of pregnancy, and our #1 piece of advice for anyone just beginning their pregnancy journey. We talk pregnancy food craving eras (lol), regrets, whether to put your baby on social media, and how we landed on Tate's name (kind of). Plus, we guess what we thought birth and life post-baby would look like. Re-listening a year later was surreal, and we're so excited for you guys to hear it. THANK YOU GUYS for being part of this journey from the very beginning—this one's special :) LOVE YOU GUYS! Timestamps:  00:00:00 Welcome back to Two Parents & A Podcast 00:01:08 We recorded everything we were feeling the night before birth [unreleased from a year ago!] 00:10:53 Why we decided to schedule an induction 00:15:56 What we'd tell ourselves at the start of pregnancy 00:20:17 Our #1 piece of advice for those just starting their pregnancy journey 00:23:50 My pregnancy food craving eras 00:28:40 Our biggest pregnancy regret 00:32:56 Deciding whether to put the baby on social media 00:36:28 How we chose our baby's name 00:37:27 Joining the #GirlDad club 00:42:36 What I think the birth process will be like 00:46:35 How we think life will change post-baby 00:50:47 LOVE YOU GUYS! #twoparentsandapod --------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors this week: *Neuro: For a limited time, you can get 20% off your first order at https://www.neurogum.com with code TWOPARENTS. You can also find Neuro at CVS and Amazon. *EveryPlate: Dig into flavor-packed meals your household will love! New customers can enjoy this special offer of only $1.99 per meal. Go to https://www.everyplate.com/podcast and use code TWOPARENTS199 to get started. Discount applied on your first box, limited time only. *BetterHelp: As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp provides access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://www.betterhelp.com/TWOPARENTS. *Skims: Shop my favorite bras and underwear at https://www.skims.com/twoparents. After checkout, let them know we sent you! Select “podcast” in the survey and choose our show from the dropdown menu. #skimspartner --------------------------------------------------------------- Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple: https://www.youtube.com/@twoparentsandapod https://open.spotify.com/show/7BxuZnHmNzOX9MdnzyU4bD?si=5e715ebaf9014fac https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-parents-a-podcast/id1737442386 --------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Two Parents & A Podcast: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/twoparentsandapod TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@twoparentsandapod Follow Alex Bennett: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/justalexbennett TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@justalexbennett Follow Harrison Fugman: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/harrisonfugman TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@harrisonfugman --------------------------------------------------------------- Powered by: Just Media House – https://www.justmediahouse.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textBrad Baych, creator of the Butcher Wizard YouTube channel, began his culinary journey at the age of nineteen as a sauté cook at a steak restaurant in Oklahoma. Deciding to pursue his passion for food, he moved to Chicago to attend culinary school.After graduation, he worked in Dallas at a fine dining hotel and restaurant, then eventually returned to Oklahoma, where he married his high school sweetheart and started a family. He worked as a kitchen manager and became a culinary professor, teaching essential skills such as knife techniques, butchery, soups, and sauces. A move to South Carolina reignited his passion for butchery as he took a job at a local butcher shop.Brad created his Butcher Wizard YouTube Channel to share his love for butchery and empower home cooks to tackle their own projects with confidence.His much anticipated book Primal Cuts: A Butcher's Guide to Selecting, Preparing, and Perfecting Beef is set to be released in the fall of 2025. With his insider knowledge, you will learn how to choose the best cuts for maximum flavor and tenderness, bringing your meat-centric meals to the next level with over 100 recipes and insider tips.Find Brad at-YT- @Butcher WizardThe Primal Cuts Club (Join me! I'm a member too!!)IG- @butcherwizardFind Boundless Body at- myboundlessbody.com Book a session with us here!

Deciding between living in Grand Rapids or Kalamazoo? These two West Michigan cities are just 50 minutes apart, but they each offer a unique lifestyle, opportunities, and community feel. Whether you're considering a move for work, school, or quality of life, this guide will help you compare Grand Rapids vs Kalamazoo and see which city might be the best fit.SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1 Contact us now:Call or Text: (616) 330-2555Email: info@marketgr.comMoving to Grand Rapids? Pick up our FREE relocation guide!https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guideMore from Group Realtors:Website

SPONSORS: 1) PRIZEPICKS: Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/JULIAN and use code JULIAN and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey (***TIMESTAMPS in Description Below) ~ Dalton Fischer is the podcast host of the Dalton Fischer Podcast which covers topics with guests ranging from CIA insiders, operators, and other geopolitical experts. DALTON'S LINKS: YT: https://www.youtube.com/@DaltonFischerPodcast/featured IG: https://www.instagram.com/daltonfischerpodcast/?hl=en FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY INSTAGRAM (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/juliandoreypodcast/ INSTAGRAM (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://twitter.com/julianddorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 00:00 – Montana trip, lifestyle travel, Julian inspires Dalton to “burn the ships” 08:21 – Starting point, paralysis by analysis, daunting beginnings 15:16 – Calling podcasters for advice, Danny Jones, John Kiriakou 27:56 – John Kiriakou's storytelling, Clark Fredericks story, abu5er grooming tactics 39:22 – Worst things that can be done 52:07 – Why Shawn Ryan inspires Dalton, empowering team, criticism of big figures 01:00:25 – Founder burnout, sacrificing relationships, Julian's peace after grandfather's passing 01:07:02 – Lessons from grandfather's passing, finality, watching last breath 01:16:35 – Dalton on death, Hormozi on mortality, afterlife, connecting with Brent Tucker 01:27:27 – People off cam, Brent Tucker, Delta Force vs SEALs, NYPD active shooter training 01:37:30 – Police officers school shootings, common sense gun laws 01:47:58 – Blackstone shooter, Shawn Ryan & Tucker, CIA infiltration 01:57:08 – Deciding validity of CIA narratives, divided society, does your vote matter? 02:03:39 – Episode w/ Rick Spence, spectrum of guests, China, Mariana Van Zeller 02:14:11 – Cartels in US, Matt Hedger 02:24:43 – Complex operations, Scott Payne episode, undercover work 02:40:57 – Scott's entry into undercover world, living through guests, 9/11 & Tim Brown 02:51:01 – Terror & unification, how things are said 03:03:25 – Dalton's work CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef - https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 335 - Dalton Fischer Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Timestamps:6:00 – Deciding between chasing investor money vs. revenues from day one29:42 – How founder pressure differs across funding strategies (runway vs. cash-flow anxiety)37:22 – Can a bootstrapped startup realistically become a market leader?35:10 – In what scenario would they switch financing strategies?This episode was produced by Founders Hive — a community of founders, experts, and investors driving entrepreneurship in Switzerland. We support early-stage startups in becoming investment-ready and guide them through the fundraising journey.As a partner of the Entrepreneurship Training programme, empowered by Innosuisse — Switzerland's innovation agency — we contribute to strengthening startups, SMEs, and research institutions in their innovation and growth.Checkout https://innosuisse.founders-hive.ch/ to learn more about Founders Hive, empowered by Innosuisse.Episode Summary:Denys Sutter is the Co-Founder and CEO of condenZero, a startup focused on building ultra-low temperature sample holders for electron microscopes, enabling researchers to observe materials and molecules at extreme cryogenic conditions with unmatched speed and stability. They hold a PHD in Physics from University of Zurich.Girisha Fernando is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lyfegen, a startup provides software that helps healthcare payers and pharma companies manage complex drug pricing agreements, reduce admin work, and optimize rebates for better value. They hold a Bachelor of Applied Science in International Management and Economics from PHW Bern.In their chat, Girisha and Denys compared bootstrapping, non-dilutive funding, and VC money through the lens of speed, focus, and risk. They dug into how early traction de-risks a raise, why deep-tech R&D often can't be accelerated with more capital, and how European VC norms can clash with early-stage reality. They also shared pragmatic alternatives—grants, debt against orders, and strategic investors—plus the importance of aligning your fundraising path with market size and sales cycles.They also talked about founder psychology and operating pressure: the difference between managing cash-flow anxieties vs. runway clocks, how board quality can add structure (or distraction), and when outside capital becomes “fuel” to reach dominance. The group debated whether a bootstrapped company can lead a market, concluding that natural growth is often too slow once scale is in sight, and closed with concrete trigger points for switching paths—hitting product scalability, expanding to bigger markets, or needing faster go-to-market to seize timing.The cover portrait was edited by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.smartportrait.io⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.‍Don't forget to give us a follow on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠so you can always stay up to date with our latest initiatives. That way, there's no excuse for missing out on live shows, weekly giveaways or founders' dinners.

This week, I'm back in the Expansion Era to go deeper into how to slow down without quitting, especially when business (or life) feels heavy. I'm sharing my own experiences navigating tough seasons in entrepreneurship, what it means to identify and pull your levers, and how I stabilize myself before getting back into action. From sponsorship slowdowns to shifting income streams, I walk you through the real strategies I use to find balance and keep moving forward.In this episode, I share:Why slowing down is not failure and how to recognize the season you're inWhat it means to identify and pull your three key levers for incomeHow I use AI tools to simplify the job search when neededThe importance of pausing before making big decisionsWhy your revenue is flexible, but your identity is notHighlights Include:00:00 Intro02:00 When business slows down and how to stabilize05:00 Understanding and defining your three levers08:00 Tabitha Brown's advice on getting a job as a lever12:00 How AI can help tailor resumes and applications15:00 Deciding which lever to pull each week17:00 Why revenue is flexible but your identity isn't20:00 Closing encouragement: You are not aloneLinks Mentioned in this EpisodeLinkedIn Job BoardEtsy Resume TemplatesChatGPT by OpenAIGuest/Host Social Media InfoSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every week, headlines tell us that a single federal judge has blocked a presidential order—sometimes halting major policies for years. But should that be possible? Is it democratic?In this episode, we dig into the rise and fall of universal injunctions—a little-known legal tool that allowed one judge to freeze nationwide policy. With a recent Supreme Court decision, those injunctions are now off the table, but the ruling raises bigger questions: Has the Court consolidated power for itself? What does this mean for the balance between the executive branch, lower courts, and the justices in Washington?We talk with Jack Goldsmith, former Assistant Attorney General and Harvard Law professor, to unpack the legal mechanics, political stakes, and the hidden negotiations between the Supreme Court and the presidency. The result is a story about law, politics, and power that goes far beyond the headlines.

In this episode, “The Coach” explores the crucial concept of environment and its profound impact on success. He explores how the rooms we choose to inhabit—both physically and metaphorically—shape our attitudes, opportunities, and ultimately, our outcomes. Join Rodney as he empowers listeners to take control of their environments and, by doing so, take charge of their destinies!

Ballet, burnout, and the hidden mental health battles of a top performer. In this powerful conversation, Sara Mearns — principal ballerina at New York City Ballet — opens up about her journey through a breakdown, therapy, and rediscovering joy in dance. Hear her unfiltered story about pressure, resilience, and the healing power of vulnerability. Ask Kati Anything ep. 279 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Sara Mearns 01:05 – Why ballet feels new every day 03:40 – The pressure of never feeling “good enough” 04:42 – Mental Health Coalition & Covid struggles 07:12 – The breaking point: burnout and depression 12:14 – Rediscovering balance through therapy 17:14 – The role of storytelling and books like The Midnight Library https://amzn.to/3HRAhsM 22:12 – The intimacy of dance partnerships 30:47 – When the audience goes silent: the ultimate performance high 35:17 – Deciding to become a professional ballerina at 12 39:01 – Why therapy should be part of training for all athletes 45:20 – The small shifts therapy creates over time 50:07 – How going public with her burnout helped others 53:58 – The future of ballet and mental health advocacy Follow along with Sara https://www.instagram.com/saramearns https://www.nycballet.com/ My new book is available for pre-order! Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. SPONSORS: To support this podcast, check out our sponsors & get discounts: oneskin.co - use the code KATI for 15% OFF betterhelp.com/katipod - (enjoy 10% off your first month) MY BOOKS Traumatized   https://geni.us/Bfak0j   Are u ok?    https://geni.us/sva4iUY  PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman |  nick@biglittlemedia.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Zach Kittley, Head Coach at Florida Atlantic University. Coach Kittley shares his path from following his father's coaching legacy to becoming a Division I head coach, his experiences with the Air Raid offense, and the process of building his staff and culture at FAU. If you're a coach, player, or fan interested in offensive strategy and leadership, this episode is packed with valuable insight. Episode Timestamps: 1:13 – Introduction 1:48 – Deciding to pursue coaching 8:10 – Balancing student life and coaching 12:20 – Developing as a QB coach at Texas Tech 15:20 – Opportunity at Houston Christian 18:50 – First challenges as an OC 24:50 – Adapting in the Air Raid offense 26:40 – Lessons from first year as an OC 30:20 – Taking the Western Kentucky job 39:00 – Building a stronger run game 42:30 – Returning to Texas Tech as OC 49:40 – Coaching at his alma mater 54:30 – Building a staff at FAU 1:00:00 – Importance of AFCA 35 Under 35 program 1:01:32 – Conclusion

When your child has complex medical needs, the question of more children isn't always simple.And for some parents of disabled children, the decision to stop at one might not even feel like a decision at all.In this episode, Alyssa shares responses from hundreds of parents who live in this reality: the sadness of not giving their child a sibling, the guilt of choices that never felt like choices, the relief of knowing their family is complete, and the complicated emotions that sit in between.If you've felt sadness, certainty—or both at the same time—about stopping at one, we hope this episode will feel deeplyfamiliar.Links:Join The Rare Life newsletter andnever miss an update!Fill out our contact form to joinupcoming discussion groups!Listen to Ep 99: Family Planning.Listen to 194: Season 12 Kickoff forMadeline's big announcement!Follow us on Instagram @the_rare_life!Donateto the podcast or Contactme about sponsoring an episode.Follow the Facebook page. Join the Facebook group Parents of Children with Rare Conditions.Access the transcript on the website here. And if you love this podcast, please leave usa rating or review in your favorite podcast app!

In Hour 1, Andy and Randy talk about Week 2 in the NFL starting tonight with the Commanders taking on the Packers, some of the improvement the Falcons need to make to beat Minnesota, the conversation around Brian Snitker possibly returning for another season, and Atlanta Dream President Morgan Shaw Parker stops by.

Deciding he's through with subterfuge, Oldman heads straight to one of the cell's targets. Will this be the distraction he thinks, or will it just tip off the cell's enemies?The future is grim.The population of Neo Tokyo seeks to escape into Cyberzone as the megacorps plunder the world around their sleeping bodies.There are those, bold enough, perhaps mad enough, link their minds, and stand up.Join This American Dice for a Headspace actual play.A group of operators have bound their minds together to become the ultimate force to bring down the megacorps plundering Neo Tokyo.Neo Tokyo Dreams includes the voices of:David as Dr. BenniLeigh as Old ManAlex as ButtsAustin as Nikoand Carl is our Game MasterHeadspace is a game by Mark Richardson and is a Powered by the Apocalypse GameThe intro music is Law Abiding Citizen by Karl Casey @ White Bat AudioAdditional Music for this episode includes:Truth Police by Karl Casey @ White Bat AudioThe Journey Ahead by Ezra LippGolden Cage by Jimena ContrerasInto the Technodome by Karl Casey @ White Bat AudioEternal Night by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Treaty Talk | 346 | SFC moving week |SHC deciding week & plenty more #SportLK

Deciding when an elderly parent should stop driving ranks among family life's most challenging conversations. Now, General Motors is developing technology to transform this emotional decision into a data-driven process. Their innovative "driver retirement score" system monitors everything from reaction times to proper use of turn signals, even tracking how often other drivers honk at the vehicle. This comprehensive approach could revolutionize how families approach driving cessation discussions with aging relatives.The timing couldn't be more critical. With nearly 52 million licensed drivers over 65 in America—a 77% increase in just two decades—we're facing unprecedented road safety challenges. According to Triple A, seniors now outlive their ability to drive safely for the first time in history, creating a need for "driving retirement planning" similar to financial retirement planning.But the technology raises fascinating questions about parameters and privacy. Would someone who enjoys driving fast automatically receive a poor score? How might different interpretations of complete stops at stop signs affect results? These considerations highlight the complexity of designing systems that identify genuinely unsafe behaviors while accommodating varied driving styles.Beyond the elderly driver technology discussion, we explore the completely redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade. Priced at $58,030 as tested, it offers tremendous value compared to competitors like the Ford Expedition King Ranch at over $86,000. While the Palisade impresses with modern styling and luxurious features, its 3.5-liter V6 struggles somewhat with the vehicle's 5,000-pound weight. We also cover major racing news with Will Power leaving Penske after 17 years to join Andretti's IndyCar team, while Colton Herta prepares for a potential Formula One future.Ready to learn more about automotive innovations, value-packed SUVs, and the future of driving safety? Listen now and join our conversation about the technologies reshaping our relationship with vehicles at every stage of life.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12noonCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Car Talk, email us at info@inwheeltime.comTags: In Wheel Time, automotive car talk show, car talk, Live car talk show, In Wheel Time Car Talk

Deciding what to do in a marriage is never simple, especially when you're questioning whether your partner's “all in” effort is real or just words.I walk a member through how to recognize that personal growth starts inside, and real change isn't just mental—it shows up in consistent action.We also tackle the challenge of delivering a separation or divorce decision when your partner reacts with tears, promises, or attempts to debate the past.I teach how to stay grounded, honor your own needs, communicate clearly, and avoid being pulled into endless arguments.Love and clarity begin with you, and you don't have to navigate these conversations alone.Struggling to decide whether to stay or go in your marriage and you're serious about finding that answer? Book a Truth & Clarity Session with a member of my team. We'll discuss where you are in your marriage and explore if there's a fit for you and I to work together so you can make - and execute - the RIGHT decision for YOU and your marriage.

What do Michael Jordan, Dean Smith, and high-performing CEOs all have in common? The answer: culture beats talent every time.In this episode of Decidedly, we sit down with Coach Matt Doherty, 1982 UNC National Champion, former head coach of the Tar Heels, and now an executive coach for business leaders. From cutting down nets with Jordan to coaching at Notre Dame and UNC, Doherty has lived through the highs of championships and the lows of leadership challenges.Coach Doherty shares stories from the locker room, the boardroom, and beyond, showing exactly how to apply championship-level leadership to your business, team, or career.KEY TOPICSThe untold lessons from Dean Smith's legendary “Play Hard, Play Smart, Play Together” cultureWhy culture, not just systems or talent, is the deciding factor for winning teams and thriving companiesThe three things only a CEO (or head coach) can do — and why you can't outsource themHow to rebound from setbacks and turn failure into fuel for future successWhy every leader needs a personal board of directors to make better decisionsCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:38 The Esteemed Title of 'Coach'04:23 Impact of Coaches on Young Lives11:11 Journey to North Carolina12:32 Winning the 1982 Championship13:28 Core Values and Team Culture18:18 Challenges of Following a Legendary Coach23:18 Lessons in Leadership and Executive Coaching24:46 Navigating Relationships with Mentors25:48 Leadership and Emotional Intelligence29:50 Managing Up and Organizational Dynamics33:15 Building and Motivating Teams36:30 Vision, Culture, and Systems in Leadership45:13 Decision Making and Peer Advisory48:44 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysIf you've ever wondered how champions are built –  in sports or in business – this is an episode you don't want to miss.#Leadership #Basketball #ExecutiveCoaching #DecidedlyPodcastCONNECT WITH USwww.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn's Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger's Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MOREwww.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAILJoin us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode at a time!CONNECT WITH COACH MATTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmattdoherty/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DohertyCoaching# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachmattdoherty/ X: https://x.com/DohertyMatt Website: https://dohertycoaching.com/ Coach Matt Doherty, a nationally recognized motivational speaker, best-selling author, and executive coach, began his leadership journey as a starter on the 1982 UNC National Championship team alongside Michael Jordan under the legendary Dean Smith. He went on to become Head Coach at Notre Dame and North Carolina—earning AP National Coach of the Year in 2001—and has since worked with ESPN, the Indiana Pacers, and major corporations to strengthen leadership, culture, and team dynamics. Today, through keynotes, media appearances, and executive coaching, Coach Doherty shares actionable lessons from the court to the boardroom with a simple mission: “Learn & Grow” every day.

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Chris Hutchins, host of the podcast All the Hacks and a seasoned points-and-miles strategist. Chris shares his personal journey into travel hacking, including lessons learned on when to use points versus cash, and how to stretch travel budgets further. The conversation explores the value of negotiating with Airbnb hosts, overlooked tools that simplify point management, and how flexibility leads to better redemption experiences. Chris also highlights his best travel experiences, strategies for family trips, and the importance of leaving room for spontaneity on every journey. Packed with actionable insights, this episode offers both beginners and seasoned travelers fresh ways to rethink their approach to points, miles, and travel planning.Key Highlights:Points vs. cash: Deciding between the two depends on redemption value and flexibility.Maximizing redemptions: Strategic planning and timing unlock the best deals.Budget expansion: Using points effectively can significantly stretch travel budgets.Negotiating Airbnb: Travelers can save by directly negotiating with hosts.Tools for tracking: Platforms like AwardWallet simplify managing points and miles.Family travel tips: Planning with kids requires different considerations than solo travel.Unscheduled time: Leaving space in itineraries often leads to memorable discoveries.Fine print matters: Understanding booking rules prevents costly mistakes.Card strategy: Everyday spending and expense tracking amplify travel rewards.Resources:Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50%...

 In this episode, Ashley shares her powerful story of overcoming domestic abuse. Ashley recounts her tumultuous marriage marked by emotional and psychological abuse, her journey through a traumatic childbirth experience, and her eventual separation. She discusses the impact of her childhood abuse, her struggle with self-doubt, and the challenges of single motherhood with special needs children. Ashley also shares how her faith and community support played vital roles in her healing journey. The episode concludes with Ashley's advice for others in abusive situations to prioritize self-care and seek supportive communities. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Meet Ashley: A Survivor's Story 01:38 Ashley's Background and Journey 04:19 Challenges of Parenting Special Needs Children 05:12 Coping During the Pandemic 06:55 Ashley's Upbringing and Faith Journey 14:21 Meeting Her Husband and Early Red Flags 16:15 The Birth of Ashley's Children 21:34 Experiencing Abuse and Control 23:26 Realizing the Extent of Abuse 24:15 Deciding to Leave 25:42 The Second Separation 32:05 Ongoing Abuse During Divorce 35:02 Healing and Support 38:56 Faith and Moving Forward 41:53 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement   Website: https://dswministries.org Subscribe to the podcast: https://dswministries.org/subscribe-to-podcast/ Social media links: Join our Private Wounds of the Faithful FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1603903730020136 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DswMinistries YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxgIpWVQCmjqog0PMK4khDw/playlists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dswministries/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSW-Ministries-230135337033879 Keep in touch with me! Email subscribe to get my handpicked list of the best resources for abuse survivors! https://thoughtful-composer-4268.ck.page #abuse #trauma Affiliate links: Our Sponsor: 753 Academy: https://www.753academy.com/ Can't travel to The Holy Land right now? The next best thing is Walking The Bible Lands! Get a free video sample of the Bible lands here! https://www.walkingthebiblelands.com/a/18410/hN8u6LQP An easy way to help my ministry: https://dswministries.org/product/buy-me-a-cup-of-tea/ A donation link: https://dswministries.org/donate/   Ashley Transcript [00:00:00] Special thanks to 7 5 3 Academy for sponsoring this episode. No matter where you are in your fitness and health journey, they've got you covered. They specialize in helping you exceed your health and fitness goals, whether that is losing body fat, gaining muscle, or nutritional coaching to match your fitness levels. They do it all with a written guarantee for results so you don't waste time and money on a program that doesn't exceed your goals. There are martial arts programs. Specialize in anti-bullying programs for kids to combat proven Filipino martial arts. They take a holistic, fun, and innovative approach that simply works. Sign up for your free class now. It's 7 5 3 academy.com. Find the link in the show notes. Welcome to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast, brought to you by DSW Ministries. Your host is singer songwriter, speaker and domestic violence advocate, [00:01:00] Diana. She is passionate about helping survivors in the church heal from domestic violence and abuse and trauma. This podcast is not a substitute for professional counseling or qualified medical help. Now here is Diana. So today on the wounds of the Faithful podcast, we have a survivor story today. So please welcome Ashley to the show. Thanks for coming on the podcast and sharing a bit of yourself with us. Hi. You're welcome. I'm glad to be here. I haven't seen you since the girls. We went over to Starbucks for an outing and we had that incident with the spider. Yes, I know. Multiple spiders crawling around the table and on you. Oh, well I thought that Kelly had killed the one on the ground and then we found out there was another [00:02:00] one and it was on my shoulder and you wanna see me freak out? Okay, that's how you get me to freak out is a spider. So here we are trying to kill the spider. But we had a good time. It was fun. Just fun to get out. It was a hot day. We were out there roasting in the heat, but it was just fun to get out and, have some girl time. Right? Yes, definitely. We needed it. So, let's, get to know you a little better. So give us a little introduction about yourself. What general part of the country are you from, and are you married? How many kids you got, what do you do for a living? That kind of stuff. Okay. Well my name is Ashley, and I live in Arizona. I've been here for five years now. I was living in North Carolina with my husband and our family for, we were on the East coast for about, oh gosh, probably about eight years or so. And, living in, in North Carolina, Virginia, and [00:03:00] that area. So I met Diana through Mending the Soul. I joined because I have been separated from my husband for, about a year now. We've been separated twice and that was due to abuse that was going on in the marriage. So I have a history of abuse in my life, starting from when I was little. There was abuse that happened outside of the home, with. People that were slightly older than me. And that was more of like a, sexual abuse or molestation kind of situation. And then getting married, I thought it was a good relationship. I thought we were a good team. And we, I think it, it was okay for a while until we had children and that's when things started. Unraveling and a lot of patterns started popping up all over the place of, all kinds of a abuse that, not physical, but it was [00:04:00] emotional, mental, psychological, spiritual abuse, all of those. And I'm still kind of working through and wrestling with the effects that that had on me. And it's still, I mean, I have good days and I have really, really hard days. So it's kind of, it's still, even though it's been a year of being apart, it's still all over the place. Mm-hmm. Um, but I do feel like I'm making progress and, many, the soul did help with that along with counseling. So that's where I'm at right now and I'm currently going to school to get, to become a speech language pathology assistant. And, I have about just one semester left of that. And then I know I'm so excited to, hopefully get to work with kids that are, you know, having difficulties for whatever reason. And I am a special needs mom. My, middle child has autism and. So that's been a journey. And then my youngest also has struggles in certain areas of learning. So, yeah, this [00:05:00] will help me also, while being able to help other people. So that's where I'm at right now. So your special needs kids, what kind of challenges does that bring as a single mom and going through abuse? Mm. Oh gosh. I hadn't really thought of it in that context before, but it's a lot because you're, as a parent, you're trying to focus on their needs and trying to meet them where they're at, but at the same time, you're trying to meet yourself where you're at. So it's constantly trying to think of everyone's needs and trying to meet everyone where they are, including myself. So it is, it's a lot to think through. Every day. Yeah, but I love 'em and I mean, it's amazing to see their growth and, yeah. But it is definitely a struggle. So your kids free today, get a break, but how have you been coping during the pandemic with your kids? [00:06:00] What have you found that works? Yeah, so thankfully I've been talking to family about this also, our schedule. Because of Kim, his running his elopement, we have a hard time going to a lot of places already. So even before the pandemic, we didn't go to a lot of stores or we mostly spent our time outside and at home. So that really, I think, helped set us up for this situation because it wasn't a huge jump, you know, from being out around people all the time to nothing. So we were already kind of ready in some ways. So it's a lot of time outside as much as we can. The kids love roller skating. They love swimming. They love, yeah, just being outside doing anything they can. So that, and then, even doing games inside the house together is fun, like pillow fights or box, like my youngest likes to, like, he's practicing boxing and he loves to, [00:07:00] like I put on the oven MITs, and then he has his little boxing gloves, which is so cute. It's, it's fun. And, just trying to get their energy out. And then I work out also, so we're trying to like get all that energy from all of us. So it's, that's been good. Well, it's pretty funny. When we've had group, you know, the kids are there, three boys, like climbing all over her and poking her and mom, mom, mom. And she's trying to focus on, her part in the group, and, you just do the best you can, right? Yep. Exactly. That's, I think it's learning to just roll with it, so it's like, yeah, and like the pandemic continues to teach us that I think is, we just have to be able to roll with it as it comes. Wow. Oh, so tell us a little bit more about your upbringing. Were you raised in a Christian home? Not with my mom and my stepdad, who I lived with later, but my grandparents, who I lived with when I was little, they took me to the Nazarene Church and I was a part of that [00:08:00] community, so I was a part of a church. I don't particularly remember learning about Jesus or, salvation in particular. I just remember just in general learning about. God in general. And so that's kind of how I was raised. And then when I moved in with my mom and my stepdad, they're not a part of any faith community. So I would go either with friends to church, and then when I was older I would just go by myself, drove, I drove myself there. And and that's kind of how it started. What kind of relationship would you say you had with God? Was it personal? Was it God was distant or? Uh, I think when I was very little, I didn't feel like I had a relationship really, but always as I got older, I remember always feeling like he was there. I remember always feeling like I didn't quite understand how I knew that, but he just, I just felt like he was there with me. And then as I [00:09:00] continued. Learning more and especially after Ava, or sorry, especially after my daughter was born, I really realized the connection with Jesus and got, had my relationship with God through him. And so that's when it really became very personal. So like in the last 10 years, more so. Do you remember when you actually made that decision? Was there a day? Yeah, I don't remember the date, but, we had started having struggles in our marriage pretty soon after Ava was born and I was feeling so confused and so lost and like I needed to be doing more. And so I was going through the Love Dare book and in there it was really a really good book for that moment. And it lays out. Scripture each day. And at the end, it gives you an opportunity to accept Jesus. And I remember being so blown away during that book because no one had ever explained to me the importance of Jesus [00:10:00] and what he did for me. And so when I was like, why have I not heard this? Like, oh my gosh. And yeah. And so at the end I remember just sitting at the table crying, crying, like I could not stop crying. And it was like something inside of me just clicked and, yeah, so I said the prayer and, every, a lot of things changed after that and continued to change. Wow. That's, I've never heard a story like that. You know, I had The Love Dare book, actually, the guy I was dating. Mm-hmm. That was abusive to me, gave me that book, and it was really strange. He tried to get me to go back to my ex-husband, who was my one abuser, and, it was an excellent book, but at that time. There wasn't going to be any parting of the Red Sea Miracle with my ex-husband. I kept telling this guy, we're already divorced. It's over. Yes, I'm moving on. Yes. But it's amazing that you found Jesus through that book. I praise the [00:11:00] Lord for that. I know, and that's the, I think it's interesting because I started reading that book to help with the marriage. And it did somewhat, but I think the most, it was cool because God met me where I was doing what I was doing, you know? And it didn't matter why I started it. Yeah. It's just so cool. Amazing. So what were your teenage years like? Did you have a lot of self-confidence growing up? Oh gosh. I would say no. I mean, middle school was really hard for me. I had a lot of rejection and embarrassing things happen, and they kind of linked with the abuse. That happened when I was younger. And so that kind of, I spiraled quite a bit there and I just, I think, decided that I wanted to protect myself. And so I decided, okay, I'm gonna get straight A's in school. I'm gonna run track and I'm gonna do [00:12:00] the best I can with that and I'm not gonna get in trouble. And I just made all these like promises to myself, I think, to protect myself. So I think I appeared on the outside probably like I had. I a lot of confidence, but it really was protection and so I don't feel like it was confidence at all. It was all rooted in fear and trying to protect myself. So, no, I don't think I did. Mm. Now how did your grandparents play a part in your life? They were very significant. Mm-hmm. And they, yeah, they still, they're a huge part still. Yeah. I mean, it's hard to put into words everything that they've done, but they gave me a safe place. They've always been a safe place for me. And no matter what they, I have never felt abandoned by them. I've never felt judged by them. I've never felt, like they didn't try to understand me so they've always, they've been a consistent, safe place. Throughout my whole life. And [00:13:00] so even in those hard times, I, I did always know they were there. And, I would call my grandma instead of talking to my mom or anyone else, I would always call my grandma and talk to her. And she kind of helped me work through in college when I finally, I think I was hitting another breaking point in college when I was drinking a lot and really depressed. Honestly, I was running track at a college and. Trying to perform still, but then partying also. And there were these two parts of me that were like colliding and it was so painful and I didn't know how to get out of this situation. And so she helped me a lot through that also. And then later with my realizing the abuse with Dan, with my husband, and deciding to make changes there, she helped me a lot through that Also. Hmm. So yeah, her support has meant the world. I didn't really grow up with traditional grandparents. I didn't, my grandfathers died long before I was even cognitive, [00:14:00] and my dad's mother died when I was seven. And then my mother's mother, we didn't have a very close relationship because she was a very abusive person, and my mother mm-hmm. Didn't, my mother didn't want us around her and she really was a, nasty person. But, so I didn't really grow up with grandparents. I think that's why I was always friends with a lot of senior citizens. Were my good friends because I didn't have grandparents. I had, teachers and coaches and, the next door neighbor. Mm-hmm. I kind of clung too. So it was a blessing that you had have grandparents to be there for you and guide you through these tough times? Yes. Yeah. It's, it is. I mean, thinking about if I didn't have them, it's been hard enough. Even having that support. So I can't imagine not having that support. It's been, it literally feels like a gift. That God has put there to help me [00:15:00] get through all of this. And, yeah. So I'm just really thankful. So we're gonna transition to the unsavory part of the podcast. When did you meet your husband and were there any warning signs, that there was going to be abuse? So we met, we were both attending Arizona State University and we met there. We were part of a co-ed business fraternity. And, we met at a party and we, I mean, I felt like right away that I wanted to be with this person, even though I didn't know him. As I was telling you before, like I was in a really unhealthy place. All through college. It's because I, everything from my childhood hadn't been addressed and was still, all that pain was under the surface. And I think I was just trying to cover it up any way I could by drinking, sleeping with people. And, that's kind of where our relationship started. That's how it started in that [00:16:00] kind of context and. So we were both in a really unhealthy place. I think his, parents had just started the divorce process, I think when I met him. And he had a lot of pain from his childhood too. And so I think we both were just trying to cover up the pain. And so in the beginning I couldn't see any red flags because we were very similar, I think, in how we were. Covering up things and living life. And so it wasn't until really, until we had kids, because my attention was divided between him and the kids and my, and needing to take care of myself once my attention was divided, that's when all of the. The pattern started bubbling up, so I couldn't see it until quite a bit later. Mm. Wow. So when your children came along, you had a pretty dark time for you. Did you wanna share [00:17:00] about the, birth of your children? Yeah, I can. So my daughter's birth. Was overall good. We had to have a c-section because she was, she was not head down. She was bottom down and she did not wanna flip, which is totally, it's funny 'cause she's very, like kind of stubborn in her own way. And so it's funny that she just was like, Nope. Like, I'm good right here. I'm not moving. And so yeah, the C-section went well and, but. I remember I felt so sad in the hospital. I was so happy to see her, but at the same time, I think seeing her face and seeing how vulnerable she was as a baby, I think triggered everything in me at a whole new level from what happened when I was younger. So that's how her birth was difficult. And then, or my second child's birth. Was a slightly difficult Also, I was trying to have a [00:18:00] VBAC and the cord was wrapped around his, around his neck and his heart rate was dropping and so we had to go in for an emergency C-section. That one, went pretty well too. Overall, given the circumstances and everything. So it wasn't until a lot, our third child's birth. That was really, really difficult. And during that I was trying for another vbac, which looking back I wish I had not done that. But I was trying because I felt like that's, I really wanted that experience. And so I was trying and I found a doctor that would support me in doing that. And, um. It was, the birth was taking too long. I was kind of stalled in labor and they, I had an epidural and. I couldn't feel very much, but at one point I felt a pop. And this was as they were planning to get me into the [00:19:00] emerge, into the room to deliver, to via C-section. They were already planning it. We were just trying to get in there once it was open and available. Mm-hmm. And I felt this pop as they were planning this. And, I didn't know to say anything because I didn't. No, anything was wrong. I couldn't feel any pain. And we get into the emergency room, no, still no one knows anything has happened. And he's allowed to be awake and okay. And so I'm still awake and they find the, the rupture in my uterus. And I lost about probably half my blood and, and so that was very, very traumatic in and of itself. Getting out of the hospital was difficult because my blood still didn't look quite right to them. My blood work and everything, they weren't happy with it. And so, but I went home. And decided not to get a blood transfusion. Just because I didn't feel comfortable with it. [00:20:00] I ended up developing a hematoma and an infection, and had to go back in the hospital and was on antibiotics. I think it was about a week I was in there and. So when I came home, I was experiencing PTSD symptoms, but didn't understand that's what it was. Mm-hmm. I literally thought I was going to die all the time. I thought I was every minute of the day. Mm-hmm. I was checking to see what was happening in my body. Because I thought I was going to die for sure. And so I kept wanting to go to the hospital because I felt like what if I'm, I missed the infection before, I didn't know I had this infection. No one was telling me that I looked sick, you know? And I could have died from that infection. And, so yeah, I kept wanting to go to the hospital to see a doctor, just to make sure I was okay. And. I didn't understand what was happening to me, but at the time [00:21:00] he would tell me I didn't need to go to the doctor, you know, and yell at me that I, nothing was wrong with me, that I was fine telling me I didn't need to go to the doctor, making me feel bad about it. I was struggling to take care of the kids, because I was going through all this and not understanding what was happening. So this is where I really, really started to know that something was wrong, in the marriage because of how he handled this situation. So. Yeah, this is his children that he's talking about Most, you know, normal people. If you're, if you're suffering and it involves your kids or your spouse, you're gonna take them to the hospital. That's, that isn't normal. No. Even when I had the infection in my fever. I had started at home and I was shaking like I was, I couldn't stop. Like I would [00:22:00] shake out of the blue. My body would just, that's how far the infection had progressed. And he still was kind of telling me that I didn't need to go. But thankfully my doctor was like, you can come in tonight if you think you need to. And I was like, yes, I need to. Yes. When can I be over there like yesterday? Yes. So was that the first time that you've experienced abuse by him or were there other stuff on top of the post pregnancy and delivery stuff? There was, I mean, there was stuff here and there definitely like control over money, like making me feel bad about buying groceries like that. I spent too much, when I just, I mean I am very frugal. Like I love finding deals. I love all that. I mean, I am into that. I always have been. I am very particular about what I buy and mm-hmm. And I still, no matter how hard I tried to do a good [00:23:00] job, I would come home and it would not be good enough and it would be that I spent too much money. And so, yeah, it's definitely control stuff. I saw I was happening before, but I kind of took it on as this is something I'm doing wrong. And so it wasn't until the medical stuff happened that I realized. That I started to realize a little bit that maybe it was something else. Yeah. You're not the only one that had that. Mm-hmm. Had that problem with the spending money. I was in charge of getting groceries and buying all the Christmas gifts for his family, and it was always the same thing. You spent too much money and mm-hmm. And you bought too many groceries, like, well, why don't you try and get a full, week budget on a hundred bucks and see how good you do. Exactly. Or you buy all the presents for your family and see how well you do on the budget you gave me. [00:24:00] Yeah. The control, the verbal and emotional abuse. Mm-hmm. It's not just physical folks. Your abuser can make your life a living hell without laying a finger on you. Yes, and I think that's what I'm realizing now is I still have physical, issues related to the abuse that happened when Elijah was born. I have heart palpitations that I believe. Come from a mixture of what happened to me physically, but also what happened to me emotionally, that I felt so abandoned and so, confused during that time because of what was being told to me by, by my husband and. Yeah, and just realizing the extent that the damage goes, it's very different than, I mean, physical abuse and emotional abuse have some similarities, but Yeah. The, depths doesn't change just because we can't see it [00:25:00] on the outside. Exactly. Mm-hmm. When did you decide, enough is enough? I need to get out now. Was there a specific day or an event? Well, there were two, I mean two, it happened twice. So it happened in North Carolina. He was continuing to escalate as far as like telling me he was suicidal, which I believe he is. But he seems to, he uses it in certain ways to get me to stop doing things that he doesn't want me to be doing, like spending time by myself outside of the house or spending time with friends. Um. You know, not being able to have intimacy and things like that. So he uses that as a way to get me to stop. And so that was escalating also. He had started using intimidation, punching walls in the house, that kind of thing. So, and the friend had [00:26:00] just, I had never, no one had ever told me that what was happening was abuse. And I didn't know. I honestly did not know. And someone had just. That who had come from an abusive marriage had pointed out to me that I had told her what was happening at home. And she was like, that is abuse. And I was like, what? Are you serious? Mm-hmm. Like I was in shock that I didn't know that. And I think that was just a wake up call for me. When I have confronted it, he pushed back right against it and wanted me to come back home. He and, I, the kids and I had moved to a different house and, we're trying to figure out what to do and that's when I decided to move closer to my family. And so that was the first time we got back together about nine months after we separated. 'cause I just, I think I. I was struggling physically to [00:27:00] handle everything on my own, plus dealing with my mental health. And it was really hard. And I think I was struggling with how am I going to do this? And I missed having someone to share life with. I missed. And I thought, what if I'm wrong? What if I am, what if I'm wrong? And I'm just as messed up as he is? And, um, which I do have my stuff, but it's different. It's not the same. And so we got back together and then about, I think it was about three years after we got back together, all the same patterns had come back up. Mm-hmm. And it had started transferring over to things happening with the kids that as far as control and just emotionally abusive language towards them. And when I started seeing how it was affecting the kids, that's when I decided. No, I cannot let this continue. Because seeing that affect them, how it could affect them [00:28:00] being exposed to that long term, I can't handle that. So I think the kids have really, really helped me to do things for them and for myself that maybe I wouldn't, it would've taken me longer to do it if it was just for me, I think. So yeah, that's kind of how that happened. Yeah, I didn't have children early in the relationship. My ex didn't want kids right away, but then we were married about five to seven year mark then all of a sudden he decided he wanted to have children. And by that time, I already knew I was trapped in a marriage that was abusive and I did not wanna bring children into this world and subject them to that. Because like you say, it's fun if it's just me, but now I have kids that I am in charge of and you know, it's going to affect them. So I just made the decision and I told him, I'm not having children. Mm-hmm. [00:29:00] Sorry, I already have to deal with everything in the marriage that I didn't have. I wouldn't have had any, anything left. But, you made a lot of big points in that you didn't know that you were abused. And I was the same way. I was abused for 13 years and I used to call up my, one of my closest friends, and I used to cry every time. You know, this man would do something horrible and I would cry, and what am I gonna do? And mm-hmm. And one day, you know, she tells me. I'm tired of you calling me up and telling me all your stories. Every time this man does something to you and you need to get out of there. He's an abusive man and I'm like, but the church won't let me get a divorce. And she said, God is not going to not love you anymore [00:30:00] because you've made the choice to divorce this abusive man. That was the day that I, I woke up and I'm like, this is abuse. Mm-hmm. All this time, that's what this was. Mm-hmm. And I made the choice then and there, I need to make plans to get out. Mm-hmm. So , when you decided to leave the second time, what were the steps that you took to get out? I. Hmm. Let's see. So what was that? Was it similar to the first time or was it different? It was a little bit different. I'm trying to think through it. I was more on my own this time. I didn't like, I didn't have someone, I wasn't seeing a counselor at the time. I wasn't really a part of a group. I think I was the most isolated probably that I have been. [00:31:00] And so I really, I just, I think I talked to my grandma and just telling her what was happening. I also listened to some resources from Leslie Vernick and there was one in particular, I can't even remember what it was called, but it was about. Oh gosh, I can't remember specifically, but it was how a man was treating his wife in the Bible. And I think it was the Levite, maybe the story of the Levite. And when I saw their, just the implications of abuse and the effects and the seriousness of it, and that's not what God wants for me. I think once I saw that. I, that's when it really clicked. And I was also getting solo physically that I knew I had to do something. My body was starting to react, to all of the stress and [00:32:00] abuse. Heart palpitations, just constantly tense, feeling like something's going to happen. And so I think all of those things and seeing the effect on our kids, that's when I decided just to. Let him know that I'm not okay with it. And I'm trying to remember even we had a conversation and I let him know, I think we need to be separated. And at the time he agreed with me that we need to be separated, but he wanted us to stay in relationship still, even though we were separated. But I knew in my head that I was done. But it was good be that because that kind of started the process even though he thought that. You know, in his head he thought we would work it out eventually, I think it started the process and we lived in separate places. And then it just has continued from there with filing divorce. Hmm. So you're still in the middle of the divorce proceedings now, right? Yes. Mm-hmm. What's your [00:33:00] interactions been with him, through this proceedings? It's been. Just on and off communication. He, that's with him. He's not outrightly like, glaringly abusive, especially in text messages. That's never been how he is really, it's more covert. So the communication part, except for about a year ago, we had a situation where he wouldn't leave the house and, that's when I stopped being able to let him be here with the kids. But besides that, the communication has been minimal, thankfully. It's more been through money that the abuse has continued. And also through the legal proceedings, what he's asking for legally feels like abuse also. So yeah, he was like canceling credit cards and stuff on you. Yes, exactly. Yeah. Yeah. So it's those like subtle, [00:34:00] under the radar where people won't notice really that the abuse is still happening. Yeah. So you look like the bad guy 'cause you're leaving mm-hmm. Your husband, but he's like, trying to sell the house out from under you and the kids and cutting your credit cards. And it's like, how are you gonna feed the children? Where are they gonna sleep? I mean, these are your children. It's insane. Yeah. Your spouse makes you look like. Or makes you feel like you've lost your mind. Or like you said in the first time you left, well, maybe he's not that bad. Maybe I'm crazy. Maybe it's not him, it's me. No, that's what they do. That's what they do, is they make you question your sanity and the reality of the situation. Mm. And that's still, that is the hardest part for me, especially right now with thinking about having to share my story with the court, with [00:35:00] people maybe who side with Dan. And having him there in front of me as I share what has happened. I'm really struggling even right now with, yeah. Do I know what's real? Can I, can I hold on to that? And. Not get confused. Mm-hmm. So that's how the effects of psychological abuse go so deep. Like even if you know the truth, it can create this pattern in your brain where you start questioning yourself, questioning what you know. And you and I tend to go back to. Seeing it as my fault. So I really have to push back against that and be around people who help me remember the truth and keep telling my, reminding myself of what's happened and this is real. This is not something that I'm making up. So how did you start the healing process? Us? Oh gosh. I mean, I think it's been a constant process of trying to put [00:36:00] myself around people. Like I said, who will tell me the truth and, um, about myself and about the situation and how God sees me. So I went back to counseling. Recently after Mending Arm mending the Soul Group ended. I realized I needed to be around people still, and I needed people to speak that truth. So I went back to counseling and that's helped a lot. Still listening to, voices that remind me. Of how toxic that kind of situation is, and that I don't need to stay in that environment. And also it's just, I think a process of acknowledging how much all of it hurt, acknowledging the damage that was done, and just the reality, letting myself accept the reality of the situation. While also taking care of myself, like mentally, physically, and all of that. So it's definitely, it feels like a full-time, full-time job sometimes just, trying to keep myself going in the right [00:37:00] direction. But I'm definitely, I feel like I'm learning about what I need and, trying to meet those needs the best I can. Would you recommend manning this all to others? What was your experience with the group? Definitely, yes, I would recommend it. Yeah, that was a first for me, being around other women who have been through abuse, and I think that alone is huge. Just being able to hear other people's stories and realizing that the patterns are the same, even though the situations are so different and the effects can be very similar too. And, and also the steps to healing and processing what happened are so good. So it's just that combination of community with people who have been through it, and also the path to working through the, what happened to you. Well, I'm glad that it was so helpful to you. I've definitely seen some changes in you from the beginning when you joined the [00:38:00] group and now. So that, I hope that's an encouragement to you. You seem so more confident and you recognize those red flags. You understand now what he's doing to you when he's talking to you. He is gaslighting you. He is narcissistic. He is being manipulative. You're recognizing those things, whereas you might not have seen those things before. Mm-hmm. And, talking to our listeners that are going through abuse right now, or maybe they just left their abuser, what advice would you give to someone else who's being abused right now? Hmm. I think that, I would say to take care of yourself, and to think about what you really need. That it is not wrong to think about. What you need and where you are at. I feel like a lot of times, especially in [00:39:00] Christian communities, we take on this idea that I think thinking about ourselves and what we need is selfish or wrong, and I feel like that kind of, that mentality set me up to stay in that situation a lot longer, than I probably should have. So yeah, just considering what you really need, and. Getting people around you that will help you decide what steps you need to take, to get into a better position, a better situation where you can have healing, and, and just to yeah, feel better. So I would say, yeah, take care of yourself and get people around you that can support you and help you make a plan. Very good advice. What would you say your relationship with God is like now that you've gone through some of your healing process? Hmm. It's definitely, it's good, but I do, I still [00:40:00] struggle with, Not putting the characteristics. And protecting myself from God, I guess I have a hard time, like not distancing myself, and so it's always reminding myself that he is safe, that he cares about me, that he's leading me through this, and that I can trust him. So it is really good, but it is a constant, a, a journey also reminding myself of the truth over and over so that I can keep coming back to him and not hiding. Oh, that's, that is so true. It is a journey and it's messy Sometimes it's, but God understands he's there and he's gonna be patient and waiting for you while you're still figuring things out and, mm-hmm. Awesome. So like we have a music segment at the end of the episode. I don't suppose you're sing or play an instrument or juggle or anything like that. No. I play the, but I [00:41:00] don't have it. Oh, how about a joke? You got any jokes, kid jokes, cheesy jokes? No. Don't have any jokes? No. Oh, well, no. How about, I know that you have one of these. How about what's a Christian song that really encourages you and that you just go to it whenever you're having a bad day. Oh my gosh. I think I mentioned this one during the group actually. Mm-hmm. I can't remember the title of it, but it's, it's the one, like, he's greater than All My Mistakes. Gosh, I wish I can remember who, oh, I can't remember the name of the band. But anyway, it's something about, greater than all my mistakes, and if you type that in, it should come up. But it's amazing and it just talks about how, it's just such a peaceful song to me and just realizing that he really is, he's greater than all my mistakes. The mistake that I made of being in a relationship with someone that's abusive. Mm-hmm. [00:42:00] Any mistakes I make with the kids, mistakes I make with putting characteristics on God that aren't him, anything that I do, nothing is big enough that is going to change his relationship with me. And that he's always there, waiting for me to, turn and look at him. So, yeah, I love that song. I'll definitely put that in the show notes for people to look that up. 'cause I did listen to it when you mentioned it the first time and it is an awesome song. Yes. But I so appreciate you coming onto the show and sharing your journey with us. You're welcome. Thank you so much for having me. So I hope you really enjoyed Ashley's story today. She had a lot of great nuggets to share with you, and I've heard her story before, of course, in a lot more detail, a lot more gory detail, but you can tell that she is an awesome lady, an [00:43:00] awesome mother who's gone through so much, so many challenges. Yet, the Lord has really blessed her life, blessed her kids. How did you feel about what Ashley said? Can you relate to any of the struggles that she's had that she's continuing to go through? You have a prayer request that you'd like me to bring before the Lord. I have my personal time with the Lord usually at breakfast time, so I'd be honored to pray for you. So until next week. Choose one thing, just once, small thing today to get you closer to your healing goals. Thank you and God bless. Thank you for listening to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast. If this episode has been helpful to you. Please hit the subscribe button and tell a friend. You could connect with us at DSW Ministries dot org where you'll find [00:44:00] our blog, along with our Facebook, Twitter, and our YouTube channel links. Hope to see you next week.    

Are you feeling exhausted, unfulfilled, and unhappy? It doesn't have to stay that way! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Kevin Groth, a long-time ACT client, to share his journey from rock-bottom to success and the steps you can take to find fulfillment and happiness. To learn how to reframe adversity and make your life better, listen to Episode 941 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Groth:Give Dr. Groth a call: (248) 229-9380Send Dr. Groth an email: kevingroth@gmail.com Join Dr. Groth on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grothdentalFollow Dr. Groth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkevingrothMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 941: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell: https://www.buybackyourtime.comRead Die with Zero by Bill Perkins: https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcomeMain Takeaways:Out of every adversity comes opportunities.Don't try to hide and solve problems on your own.Stop trying to do it all. Delegate to protect your time.Learn how to take care of your physical and mental health.Identify the things that will simplify your life. Simplicity leads to joy.Start saying no more often — especially to things you don't want to do.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:34 Hitting rock-bottom.5:52 The evolution of Dr. Groth's practice style.8:47 Reframing adversity.10:16 Simplicity, defined.12:59 Deciding to drop insurance.17:21 The importance of having a great team.20:09 Learn to...

“Sometimes with more choice comes more anxiety. And the decision of which exam to take ends up being part of the process that can be complicated and painful.” Deciding which exam to take can be tough - but it doesn't have to be! In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach is joined by Charles Bibilos, founder of GMAT Ninja, to discuss the complexities of choosing between the GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA) for MBA admissions. They explore the unique features of each test, the psychological aspects of test-taking, common myths surrounding standardized tests, and effective preparation strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses in relation to the tests, as well as the need for a balanced approach to studying and mental well-being. Links: GMAT Ninja: https://gmatninja.com/ Straight Talk with GMAC on YouTube Take the GMAT: gmat.com/register Takeaways: Choosing the right test can be a source of anxiety for MBA applicants. The GMAT, GRE, and EA each serve different purposes and audiences. Understanding the structure and content differences is crucial for test-takers. Test anxiety can significantly impact performance; managing it is essential. Many myths about standardized tests can lead to unnecessary stress. The GRE is a general admissions test, while the GMAT and EA are tailored for MBA programs. Preparation should include physical and mental well-being for optimal performance. Cramming is ineffective; consistent study is key to success. Understanding the reasoning behind questions is more important than memorizing formulas. Test-takers should focus on their individual strengths when choosing a test. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Standardized Testing Choices 05:03 Choosing the Right Test for Your Goals 07:25 Exploring the Options: GMAT, EA, and GRE 12:06 Content Differences Between GMAT and GRE 18:51 GMAT's Data Insights Section 23:55 The Best Test for Each Type of Student 27:21 EA vs GRE, GMAT 30:21 Improving Your Quant Skills 35:15 Each Exam's Major Myths 42:03 Most Underrated Prep Tip

Did you like the episode? Send me a text and let me know!!

Today With LuAnn Nigara: If 2025 has felt unpredictable, up and down, or just plain stuck—you're not alone. But here's the hard truth: not deciding what to do next is still a decision. And it might be the one that's keeping your business from real growth. In this solo episode of Window Treatments for Profit, LuAnn breaks down the difference between business owners who spin and those who scale—especially in uncertain times. You'll hear: What smart CEOs do when the economy wobbles Why “waiting it out” is not a strategy What you don't know you don't know (and how to fix that) How to get your hands on the exact frameworks top window treatment pros are using to raise profit, delegate better, and lead with clarity Plus, LuAnn shares how you can get a front-row seat—free—to the CEO Conference Zoom Preview on September 11th. This episode is your sign to stop hesitating—and start leading. Press play and let's make your next 90 days count. A Big THANK YOU to Today's Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Exciting Windows! What's new with LuAnn Nigara ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Power Talk Friday Tour⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Docuseries!⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.luannnigara.com/cob⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠. To Get on LuAnn's Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn's Books Here: Book 1: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Audiobook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book 2: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts⁠⁠⁠⁠ Pre-Order Book 3: ⁠⁠⁠⁠A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ LuAnn's ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Power Talk Friday⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Tweet Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Follow Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Listen Here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other Resources: This podcast supports the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvy Giving Design Coalition⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about it ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join ⁠⁠LuAnn University's Proven Path to Profit⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Exciting Windows!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Coaching and more!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Managing For Profit Upcoming Locations in October & November⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Montana, Wyoming & Indianapolis, IN - Use code PROFITS at checkout to attend FREE (normally $695) Free Exciting Windows! CEO Conference Preview Zoom - ⁠⁠Register Here⁠⁠! ⁠Exciting Windows CEO Conference⁠ in Indianapolis Sun Shading Expo North America⁠!

Get instant access to the Why You Aren't Taking Action Video : successbykayla.com

This is a fan fav episode. When you are unhappy, you may find yourself constantly seeking approval from others, scared to take risks, and hyper focused on the things you don't have or lack in life. You may unconsciously have habits that are keeping you from being happy, and after this episode you know what you can do to start living with more happiness and intention. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee is a physician that focuses on successfully treating illness with progressive medicine while taking a 360 approach to health. He's written multiple books on how to feel better, lose weight, better manage stress and live a happy life. In this episode he's sharing practical things you can do right now to stop living an unhappy life. ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 6-21-22 Happiness is a skill we can improve and get better at. It doesn't have to be overly complicated, and it is super critical to your outlook on life, your relationships, and the state of your overall health. Struggling with health and happiness and not seeing the connection between the two is a mistake we've all made for too long. Let's get practical and answer these simple questions and thought exercises today: *What are 3 things you could do this week that would truly make you happy and content? *What are 3 things you would wish you have done on your deathbed and regret not doing? *Think about the values that encompass who you are and write them down. Deciding to live with intention and making the conscious decisions you need to make in order to live a better, happier, and healthier life is free, and it's the most valuable thing you can do right now for you and the people you love. Check out Dr. Chatterjee's latest book, Happy Mind, Happy Life: https://amzn.to/39ytbbu SHOW NOTES: 0:00 | Introduction Dr Rangan Chatterjee 0:23 | Why You're Not Happy 7:55 | How To Live In Alignment 26:35 | Gain Perspective Today 41:52 | Take Control of Your Life 48:14 | Will You Regret Your Choices 55:41 | Create Happy Habits What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here: If you want my help... STARTING a business: join me here at ZERO TO FOUNDER SCALING a business: see if you qualify here. Get my battle-tested strategies and insights delivered weekly to your inbox: sign up here. ********************************************************************** If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu's Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. ********************************************************************** Join me live on my Twitch stream. I'm live daily from 6:30 to 8:30 am PT at www.twitch.tv/tombilyeu ********************************************************************** LISTEN TO IMPACT THEORY AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory ********************************************************************** FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deciding what's literal and figurative in Scriptures? Marsilius of Padua and William of Ockham? Can the soul die? this and more in this Friday's edition of Called to Communion with Dr. David Anders.

Mark interviews A.L. Wahdel, a crime thriller writer brings Toronto's soul to life in his fiction. They talk about his new book TOO DARK FOR THE LIGHT, about his writing, about police work, and about the importance of community, connection, and creativity. Prior to the interview, Mark shares a personal update and a word about this episode's sponsor. This episode's sponsor: This episode is sponsored by an affiliate link to Manuscript Report. Use code MARK5 at checkout and save $5.00 off your own personalized report. In the interview, Mark and Lance talk about: Lance's 20 years of experience in the police force and how he had planned on a completely different career path by studying media arts and graphic design How people usually ask police officers if they're seen any crazy stuff, but rarely ask if they've seen amazing things The power of community and connecting and communicating with people "Always be in a constant state of create." A philosophy that drives Lance in his life and writing How any time a person creates something it's a gift to the world and the universe Lance's earliest experience writing lyrics and music Being a huge comic fan, Batman in particular The revelation of "write what you know" in creating his first novel TO DARK FOR THE LIGHT Finding his writing community via numerous podcasts, YouTube, and other online resources Establishing a virtual "mastermind" from the shared writing resources Deciding to set his novel in Toronto, Ontario, Canada instead of choosing a "more popular" major US city Using Toronto's iconic skyline on the cover to ensure the setting for the book was clear Debating over whether or not to begin with Water Kascade's origin story The tricky balance of writing an authentic police procedural novel (ie, ignoring those tedious long boring periods of time in the day to day life of law enforcement) The training of always being alert and aware as a police officer and how that benefits Lance as a writer Some of the things that authors get wrong related to police work The integrity involved in releasing the book under the pseudonym A.L. Wahdel so as not to take advantage of his role and employer Advice Lance would offer to other authors And more . . . After the interview Mark shares a few reflections about the desire to help others and the value of creativity in giving to the world. Links of Interest: A.L. Wahdel's Website A.L. Wahdel on Substack: A Constant State of Create Catching up with Dale L. Roberts (Draft2Digital Self-Publishing Insiders) Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections EP 430 - Rambling Reflections from a Lemons to Lemonade Road Trip Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation   A.L. Wahdel is an exciting new storyteller in the crime thriller genre, blending gripping suspense with a powerful narrative. A.L. Wahdel writes with energy about the city that shaped his identity. With an unwavering love for its style and complexity, he brings Toronto's soul to life in every story. Choosing his birthplace as the canvas for his crime series was an intentional act—to honour its essence, celebrate its dynamism, and share the stories that only a true Torontonian writer could tell   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0      

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Grant Olson, Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach at North Dakota State University. Coach Olson shares his journey from student assistant to defensive coordinator at his alma mater, with lessons learned at Wyoming and Indiana State, the influence of NDSU's coaching tradition, and the honor of being selected for the AFCA 35 Under 35 program.

Are you as good at making decisions as you think you are?

The Hempstead Home Depot Garden Center Team   Lesson #1: Measure First. My original plans for my mom's bed was to build it 8'x4' using four two-by-sixes cut in half and eight full-size. Before the associate at Home Depot made the first cut, I wondered how I'd fit an 8-foot board in my mom's car. So, we ended up taking a couple of 2'x 6'x 12' boards and cutting them into two 6-foot chunks and four 3-foot chunks each. But even this was too big in the end for the space I had picked out. A 5'x 2' bed would have been best for her particular spot. If it were my house, I'd move the flowers and bushes to make room for the bigger bed, not the other way around. However, my mom hadn't tasted the homegrown veggies we were going to grow yet. She was still not entirely sold on the value of a deep bed or growing your own, as she thought the farmers' market was convenient enough. [caption id="attachment_140350" align="aligncenter" width="768"] In this photo you can see how my brother drilled a couple of boards for extra support to sit on top of.[/caption] #2: Level ~ level ~ level  I ended up pulling this bed apart and putting it back together, not one, not two, not three, but four times before I could plant it, because I didn't take the time to level the bed properly in the first place. #3: Obtaining soil  I can't tell you how many people I have talked to about the first step to building a garden starts way before you are ready to plant, but with saving scraps and building a compost bin to create your own healthy soil. Deciding where to locate your soil and planning for extra soil when needed is essential. Someone had told me I could get soil at the local dump, but when I headed over with my garbage can, shovel, and some pots,...

You ever seen an old house and think, “Man, I'd love to fix that up.”? Or, an old truck, and imagine the day where you and your children would drive around in that thing? Or, maybe an old project you've been meaning to finish but never got around to it? My guest today, Tye Nichols, feels the same way. In fact, he's invested thousands of his own money to put into an abandoned golf course he's had visions of reviving. Today, we talk about his dream of reviving his golf course, Fairway Fields. We talk about finally believing in yourself, casting vision so other people will believe in you, overcoming doubters on your path, what to do when times get tough, and whether or not to “sell out” when it comes to chasing a dream. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Catching Up After Years 01:00 – Family Life and Moving Back to Maine 02:50 – Why Buy an Abandoned Golf Course? 05:55 – Building Trust and Taking Advice from the Right People 07:15 – Ordinary vs. Extraordinary 09:20 – Lessons from Jocko and Realizing People Are Just People 13:10 – Humility, Work Ethic, and Earning Opportunities 16:50 – Big Dreams for Fairway Fields 19:30 – Reimagining a Rural Golf Course 24:30 – Taming Nature and Learning the Hard Way 26:45 – Local Support and Community Excitement 28:30 – Making Ends Meet While Building a Dream 32:40 – Long-Term Vision and Scaling Up 34:40 – Overcoming Doubts and Finding True Commitment 37:10 – Support from His Wife and Family 39:25 – Turning Away from a Rough Past 41:00 – Rock Bottom and Deciding to Change 42:30 – Why Strangers Believe in His Vision 45:55 – People Want to Support, Not Tear You Down 47:30 – Advice for Men with Big Dreams 49:30 – Where to Connect with Tye Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

We're pregnant with baby no.3!!! In this episode, we talk about the pregnancy scare before trying, the moment we found out, and how we told our families. We also open up about fears of miscarriage, how this pregnancy feels different, and the reality of being in the first trimester while raising toddlers. This episode with Hiya, Zocdoc & Audible. Hiya: Go to https://hiyahealth.com/UNPLANNED and receive 50% off your first order. Zocdoc: Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/UNPLANNED to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Audible: Your first great love story is free when you sign up for a free 30-day trial at https://audible.com/unplanned Chapters: 00:00 - WE'RE PREGNANT 02:40 - Experiencing a pregnancy scare 07:05 - Trying for baby #3 13:40 - Finding out we're pregnant with baby #3 18:53 - Telling my parents we're pregnant 24:05 - My fear of miscarriage 28:21 - I thought I lost the baby 35:33 - Why my 3rd pregnancy is different 41:31 - Why I don't want to wait to find out the gender 42:31 - Surprising my parents with baby #3 46:38 - The reality of being in the first trimester with toddlers 47:44 - When a pregnancy craving hits you mid podcast 52:28 - Deciding on our third babies name Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices