Podcasts about normalize

In this powerful interview, MJ shares her journey through sexual assault, dissociation, and healing. We explore trauma's impact on the body and mind, the importance of support systems, and pathways to recovery. Discover the profound insights from MJ, a university student and trauma advocate, as she shares her story of resilience and healing after sexual assault. Trauma can alter the course of our lives in unimaginable ways; her journey through trauma began during her sophomore year. In this post, we'll explore the insights she shared during our conversation about how trauma impacts the mind and body, and the steps toward healing that can inspire others. MJ is a passionate advocate for mental health and trauma recovery, She reached out to share her story after being inspired by the podcast "What They Don't Say." Her experiences have shaped her desire to help others navigate their own trauma journeys, and she aims to work in trauma-informed care after graduation. MJ's experience of sexual assault during her sophomore year marked a turning point in her life. She recalls the moment vividly, stating, "If that short few minutes of my life never happened, my life would be in a completely different trajectory." This realization highlights how pivotal moments can redefine one's identity and path. During a fraternity party, MJ encountered a situation that escalated into sexual assault. She describes feeling paralyzed and unable to voice her discomfort, which is a common reaction among trauma survivors. "I kept moving towards the side of the bed… to tell him that I was not comfortable with his touch, but he continued to do it," she recalls. This experience underscores a harsh reality: the struggle for consent and the trauma that follows. One of the critical insights from MJ's story is her experience with dissociation. As a protective mechanism during the assault, she felt detached from her body. "It was like I was separate from myself," she explained. This response is not uncommon among survivors and can complicate the healing process. Understanding dissociation is vital for trauma-informed care. MJ's journey toward healing involved significant steps, both personally and academically. After a year, she reported her experience to her university and engaged with the Title IX process. She emphasized the importance of seeking support, saying, "The morning after was crucial, as I received support from my best friends." This support system played a vital role in her recovery. MJ has explored various therapeutic modalities, including internal family systems and somatic therapies. She shared, "In those times, I can come back to my body and really feel it in a controlled setting." This highlights the importance of finding therapies that resonate with individual experiences, as healing is not one-size-fits-all. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please consider leaving a 5-star rating on your podcast platform—it truly helps more people find these stories. You can also follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and you feel like you might be ready to share your story—whether for your own healing or to help someone else—reach out to me. We can start a conversation, with no pressure and no expectations. You can email me directly at dave@sasstories.com. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I genuinely prefer to talk with people who are considering guesting. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out—and please keep those emails coming. I truly look forward to hearing from you. Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore. Where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so. Thank you—for listening, for believing survivors, and for being part of this community. https://documenttheabuse.org https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.orgAs mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

From combat missions in the F-22 Raptor to more than five months aboard the International Space Station, Lt. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers '11 has seen it all. SUMMARY In this episode of Long Blue Leadership, Col. Ayers reflects on mentorship, teamwork and building the next generation of warriors and astronauts.   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK     TOP 10 TAKEAWAYS 1. Leadership is fluid: sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow. On Dragon and the ISS, command shifted between Anne McClain and Takuya Onishi. Everyone alternated between being commander and flight engineer, showing that strong teams normalize moving between leading and supporting roles. 2. Team care starts with self‑care. Vapor repeatedly links sleep, rest, hydration, and health to leadership performance. You can't be present for others if you're exhausted or burned out; taking care of yourself is a leadership duty, not a luxury. 3. People first, mission second (to enable mission success). Whether on deployment with 300 personnel or in space with 7, she focuses on taking care of the human—family issues, logistics, burnout, and emotions—trusting that performance and mission execution follow from that. 4. Trust is built long before the crisis. ISS emergency training with all seven crew, plus years of joint training in multiple countries, builds shared understanding and trust. When emergencies happen, the crew isn't figuring each other out for the first time. 5. Quiet, thoughtful leadership can be incredibly powerful. Takuya Onishi's style—observant, calm, speaks only when it matters, and brings thoughtful items for others—shows that you don't need to be loud to command respect. When he spoke, everyone listened. 6. Leadership means being fully present, especially on others' hard days. In both combat and space, you can't “hide” when someone's struggling. Being reachable, attentive, and emotionally available is a core leadership behavior, not a soft add‑on. 7. Normalize mistakes and share lessons learned. From F‑22 sorties to NASA operations, it's expected that you openly admit errors and pass on lessons so others don't repeat them. A culture where “experience is what you get right after you need it” only works if people share that experience. 8. Plan for “seasons” of intensity, not permanent balance. She frames life as seasons: some are sprints (deployments, intense training, big trips); others are for recovery. Wise leaders anticipate these cycles, push hard when needed, then deliberately create room to reset afterward. 9. Model the behavior you want your team to adopt. If the commander is always first in, last out, everyone else feels pressure to match that. By visibly protecting her own rest and home life, she gives permission for others to do the same and avoid burnout. 10. Lean on—and be—a support system. Her twin sister, long‑term friends, and professional peers form a lifelong support network she turns to when she fails, doubts herself, or hits something “insurmountable.” Great leaders both rely on and serve as those trusted people for others.     CHAPTERS 0:00:00 – Introduction & Vapor's Journey (Academy, F‑22, NASA) 0:00:38 – Launch Scrub, Second Attempt & What a Rocket Launch Feels Like 0:03:33 – First Moments in Space, Floating & Seeing Earth (Overview Effect) 0:06:11 – Leadership & Teamwork in Space: Roles, Trust, and Small-Crew Dynamics 0:10:19 – Multinational Crews & Leadership Lessons from Other Cultures 0:14:47 – No‑Notice F‑22 Deployment & Leading a Squadron in Combat 0:18:14 – Managing Burnout: Scheduling, Human Factors & “Crew‑10 Can Do Hard Things” 0:19:46 – Self‑Care as Team Care: Seasons of Life, Rest, and Being Present 0:26:02 – Family, Being an Aunt, and Balancing a Demanding Career 0:28:14 – Life After Space: Mentoring New Astronauts & Evolving as a Leader     ABOUT NICHOLE BIO U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Nichole "Vapor" Ayers is a trailblazing pilot, leader and astronaut whose journey began at the United States Air Force Academy, where she graduated in 2011 with a degree in mathematics. An accomplished F-22 Raptor pilot, Ayers is one of the few women ever to fly the world's most advanced stealth fighter — and she's one of even fewer to command them in formation for combat training missions. Col. Ayers earned her wings through years of training and operational excellence, logging over 200 flight hours in combat and playing a critical role in advancing tactical aviation. Her exceptional performance led to her selection in 2021 by NASA as a member of Astronaut Group 23, an elite class of 10 chosen from among 12,000 applicants. As a NASA astronaut candidate, Col. Ayers completed intensive training at Johnson Space Center, which included spacewalk preparation, robotics, survival training, systems operations and Russian language. Now qualified for spaceflight, she stands on the threshold of a new chapter that led her to the International Space Station. Throughout her career, Col. Ayers has exemplified the Academy's core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do. Her journey from cadet to combat aviator to astronaut is a testament to resilience, determination and a passion for pushing boundaries.   LEARN MORE ABOUT NICHOLE NASA Astronaut Nichole Ayers   CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LINE PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Ted Robertson | Producer and Editor:  Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org   Ryan Hall | Director:  Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org  Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor:  Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer:  Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org     ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Host: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99 Guest: Lt. Col. Nichole "Vapor" Ayers '11   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:00 Vapor, welcome to Long Blue Leadership. We are so thrilled you're here. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 0:11 Thank you. Thanks for having me. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:12 Absolutely. So the cadets get to spend some time with you at NCLS. Here the Long Blue Line is going to get to hear from you. And you know, we can actually go through the list. You know, F-22 pilot, USAFA 2011 graduate, you've been in combat, you're a NASA pilot. The list is probably shorter what you haven't done. But, frankly, I'm just excited that you're here on Earth with us, because the last time we spoke, you called me from outer space. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 0:35 Yeah, that was a lot of fun. That was a lot of chat with you then too. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:38 So let's just jump right in. So if we can just kind of catapult you, and let's do it in the way that they that NASA does, into space, maybe starting with the countdown, and then the Gs you take, what is that experience like? And maybe, what are some things you were thinking about in those moments? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 0:53 Oh, yeah. So, you know, we launched on March 14. First attempt was March 12, and we actually scrubbed the first launch. So we got all the way down to T minus 42 minutes right before we armed the launch escape system. So that's kind of a big milestone on the countdown. We were having issues with some hydraulics in the clamp that actually holds on to the rocket wall and then let's go. We weren't quite sure whether it was gonna let go, so they scrubbed the launch then, and it was a fascinating — you don't feel like you've got a ton of adrenaline going, but, you know, you feel kind of like you're in a sim. We do some really phenomenal training. And so when you're sitting on top of the rocket, it feels like you're in a simulator, except it's breathing and living, and the valves are moving, and you can hear the propellant being loaded and all of that. And so there's a very real portion to launch date. But then, coming down off of that adrenaline, we got a day off, thankfully. We could just kind of rest and relax and then go again. So everything went smoother the second try. Of course, you know, everybody's nerves are a little less, and everything was — it just felt calmer the whole way out. But, yeah, when that countdown hits zero, I like to say you're being slingshotted off the Earth. That's how it felt. You know, in that moment, you're going. There's over a million pounds of thrust, and it's going. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 2:10 I mean, that sounds like a lot. I can't really fathom in my mind what that feels like. Can you describe it? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 2:17 You know, so I talked about in an F-22 and an afterburner takeoff, which is the most thrust that we have basically in any airplane on Earth. You know, you get set back in your seat really far. And, if you think of an airliner takeoff, you kind of get set back in your seat a little bit. Multiply that by, like, 10 or 20, and then that happened for nine minutes straight on a rocket. You're just being forcefully set back in your seat for nine minutes straight and just thrown off of the Earth, and in nine minutes, you're in orbit. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 2:49 So when you had your practice, did you experience that level for that long as well? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 2:54 For the simulators? So they can't that. We can't necessarily simulate the Gs in the sim. So that's like the one part that, you know, we go through the whole launch, but you're sitting at one G the whole time, and throughout the launch, you know, the Gs build, then we back off the thrust and the Gs build again, and then you have an engine cut off. And I like to explain, like, if you could visualize, like an old cartoon, and everybody's in the car driving, and Dad slams on the brakes, and everybody hits the windshield. And then he slams on the gas again, and everybody goes back to their seats. Like, that's what it felt like when the engine cut off and, you know, main engine cuts off, and then within a few seconds, the second engine lights, and you're set back in your seat again. So I like to give that visual. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 3:33 That's really helpful, actually. Wow. OK, so you're there, you're in space. And I guess my first question would be, what's something that, in that moment, you're either thinking or you're just, are you still just orienting yourself? What is that like? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 3:45 Oh, man, you know, we're still in the seats for the first few moments in space, and we have to open the nose cone. There's some other things that are happening on the spacecraft, and getting ready for a burn, for a phasing burn, to get up to and catch up with the International Space Station. But, you know, then eventually you get to unbuckle and get out of your seat and floating for the first time. I got out of my seat and I'm floating there. It felt like, you know, Captain Marvel when she's, like, hanging out. Yeah, that's, that's how I felt. And, you know, I like to give the visual, because it's like, it's just nothing you've ever experienced in your life, you know. And then you look out the window and the view is something, it's indescribable. You know, I don't think we have the right words in the English language to describe what it feels like to look back at Earth from space. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 4:35 Was there a moment when you're looking out at Earth — did you kind of play back just different things in your life? Did you think about, you know, significance of things, or, like, scope of things, or even just the vantage point? Did it kind of just change things or were you just in awe at the moment? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 4:49 No, I think, you know, we talked about the overview effect, when astronauts specifically look back at Earth, and it hits everybody kind of differently. And for me, I think the biggest thing you know, when you look at a map of the states or a map of the world, you know, every country is a different color, or every state's a different color, and there are lines that describe the borders, right? And those don't exist in in space. Those don't exist like when you can't see different colored states, right? But you can see the Grand Canyon, and you can see the mountains, and you can see the Amazon, and you can see the desert in Africa. And you get to, you know, you get to learn the world geography by colors and terrain. And it's just a really good reminder that, you know, we're all humans, and we're all on this little fragile marble, just trying to take care of each other and trying to take care of Earth. And so I think that's what hit me the most, was just there are no borders, and we're all the same. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 5:44 Gosh, well, it's a unique and probably highly impressive team that you're with. I mean, we know the road to get to becoming a NASA astronaut is certainly one that is very difficult. Starts from many, many, in the 1000s, down to 10. And so, you know, when we think about leadership, and I've heard you share this before with others, you talk about teamwork and leadership, maybe explain a little bit what that's like in space when you're all so highly effective leaders. You know, what does that look like? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 6:12 That's a great question. You know, I think for us, it is a very fluid movement, right? You lead one day; you follow the next. And you know, I'll give you an example. So Anne McClain was the commander of SpaceX Crew-10 for NASA. So she was in charge of Crew-10 is our ride up to the space station, and our ride home, right? It's the capsule, the rocket and the capsule. And then we were on Expedition 73 aboard the International Space Station, where Takuya, who it was, Takuya Onishi, who was our mission specialist on Dragon, soon as we crossed into the hatch and he took command. He is now the commander of the Space Station, and Anne and I are flight engineers, and so it's a pretty fluid movement in terms of leading and following. But ultimately, you know, it's just about being a good team and taking care of each other. And I think that being a good leader is taking care of other people. And, you know, we talk about team care — self-care, and team care are like the huge parts that we actually train and learn about at NASA as we go through our training, because you're on this really small space in the vacuum of space for five-plus months at a time, and it's — there are only seven people up there and everybody's going to have a bad day. We're all humans, and you can't, there's no hiding.   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 7:30 What's a bad day like in space?   Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 7:32 People make mistakes, right? We're all human. You might make a mistake on something, you might mess up a procedure. You hope that it's not something that causes a safety incident, right? The main goal for me, at least, was, I know I'm going to make mistakes. As long as I'm not unsafe, I'll be happy. And I think that a lot of us have that conscious decision-making process. But I think that we're also humans and have Earth lives, and your Earth life doesn't stop when you go to space. And so bad days could be something going on at home. Bad days could be something going on in space. Could be an interaction that you had with somebody on the ground that, you know, there's a lot of communication that happens between us on the ground. There are thousands of humans on the Earth that keep the Space Station running. So that day could be anything but it's tough to hide up there. Here, you can kind of like, duck and cover and maybe you just spend the day in an office. But it doesn't happen up there. We have to continue to work and continue to function. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 8:32 So you mentioned that there are seven of you in this tight space. Now, when you go up there, your crew, is it the same seven?   Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 8:38 For the majority of the time. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 8:42 OK, excellent. So one of the things we think about whenever we're leading or we're working with teams is trust, and obviously you have a great amount of trust with the crew that you're going up there with. But then you mentioned you went on to the ISS and you're working with others. What does that look like when it's someone maybe you haven't worked as closely with in a really important mission? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 9:03 So for the seven expedition members, we actually do train together for a little bit of it, not nearly as closely as, you know, the four of us training for Dragon mission. But because the most dynamic parts are launch and landing, we do a lot of training together, just as the four of us, but we train all over the world. So we go to Japan and Germany and Canada, and we go to, you know, Hawthorne, California, and we go to Russia, and we train with them, and we learn about the Russian segment, and we train with our fellow cosmonauts there. And we do emergency training specifically all together, because it takes all seven of us in an emergency doing the right thing and knowing everybody's roles. And so we train that together as well. And then anytime you're in the same country or same city together, then you get to spend the time outside of the training to get to know each other. And so you actually know your crew fairly well. But obviously, everybody's from a different nation. And we had Americans, we had a Japanese astronaut, we had Russians, so you learn everybody's culture, and it's actually, you know, to your point on being in that small — and not necessarily knowing everybody. There's also a cultural aspect; we get to know each other. We get to learn about other people's cultures and figure out how to communicate and live and work, even across the whole world. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 10:19 What was something that you learned from another culture of astronaut, maybe in the leadership realm, or just something that you took away, that's really something that surprised me, or like to emulate? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 10:30 I love Taku's leadership style. So Takuya Onishi — he's one of those more quiet humans, and he's super kind, but he is the most intelligent human I've ever met, and he is super-efficient with everything he does, and he pays attention to all of the little things. And so he only speaks up when he thinks something needs to be changed, or when he thinks that, like, we need to go in a different direction, otherwise, he's pretty happy to let you go, like, let you go as far as you want to go on something. And then when he thinks you're gonna run off a cliff, he pulls you back. So when he speaks, everybody listens. And I love that. I think some of that is cultural, obviously, him being from Japan, but I think it's also just his personal leadership style, but I learned a ton from him in terms of how to interact with people, how to let people be themselves, but also how to run a ship, and everybody knew exactly who was running the ship. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 11:22 Wow. And it shows that respect lens that you're just kind of talking about when he spoke. Everybody listens. Is that something that you feel you already had that kind of leadership style or is that something that you've kind of evolved in yourself? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 11:37 I like to think that that's the way that I lead. That's kind of how I try to be a leader. But we're not perfect, right? Nobody's perfect. And watching him, you know, taking notes from how he interacted with everybody, the things that he thought of, the things that he brought with him for us on station, you know, we get a very limited amount of stuff, personal things that we get to bring with us. And he brought things for the crew that were like, huge milestones for professional careers. You know, just the attention to detail on the human beings around him was pretty phenomenal. So it's one of the things I'm working on to be better at, because I like to think I'm good at it. But I saw the master work. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 12:18 I love that. And something you said about him, he always has attention to detail, and he saw the little things. He paid attention to the little things. I remember a past conversation we had. You had a little nugget from Col. Nick Hague, also USAFA — '98 I believe. And I think he said to you, something about, you know, “Nicole, don't forget that you're squishy,” or something like that. And so have you had more of those moments in there where they're like little nuggets or little moments that actually give you a big return or big lessons in your life? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 12:46 Oh, definitely, yeah, that one's a funny one, because the space station is metal. Everything is metal, and it's hard and so we still have weight, well, mass. We still have mass. We don't have weight, right, because we're in microgravity. But if you're cooking around a corner and you run into a handrail, it's gonna hurt, you know, if you imagine going 10 or 15 mph into something metal, it's gonna hurt — you're squishy. So that was a great lesson in slowing down and making sure you're watching your surroundings. But one of the things that Anne McClain says that cracks me up, but every time it happens, like, “Yep, this is definitely—," she says, “Experience is that thing you learn right after you need it.” And so we had a lot of those moments where you learn a lesson and you're like, “Ah, I wish I knew that five minutes ago.” And so that's something that applies everywhere. Experience is that thing you always needed right before that happened. But we also like to say Crew-10 can do hard things. That's another thing that was just kind of our motto, whether it's training — some of the training can be really physically demanding. It's really mentally demanding. And it's a lot of travel. When you get assigned to a mission, it's probably a year and a half to two years of training, and then you're gone for six months. So out of that two to two and a half years, you're not home for over a year. So you're all over the world, traveling to train and work. And like I said, we're all humans. We have Earth lives, we have homes, you get situations back home. And so navigating personal lives, navigating professional lives, navigating tough training. Crew-10 can do hard things. We like to say that. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 14:22 I like that. It also talks a bit about your grit. Crew-10 grit. So, talking about hard things, I'd like to take us to the time when you've been piloting the F-22 and you've seen combat. I heard you speaking a little bit before about a no-notice deployment. Let's visit that time in your life. What were you doing? What was your role, and what was something you experienced? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 14:47 Sure. So I was actually flying the day that we got notified. And, you know, just a standard training sortie — had landed, and some of the maintainers were like, “Hey, have you heard what's happening?” And I was like, “No, what's happening?” And then we had a big squadron meeting, and that's when we got notified, like, “Hey, we're deploying.” We were on the GRF, is what it was called at the time, Global Response Force, and I think some of that structure has changed since I left that squadron, but we knew that once we were on the GRF, there was a chance that we would get activated and get moved somewhere. Didn't necessarily expect it to be quite that quick. I think it was like the next week we got this deployment. So we got notified on a Thursday, I think, and then on Monday, I was taking off.   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 15:31 Oh, really no notice.   Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 15:33 Yeah, so, four days later, we were taking off, and then seven days later, we were flying missions from — we were stationed at Al Udeid Air Base, so we're flying out of Al Udeid within a week. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 15:45 How many with you?   Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 15:47 So when we deploy, we actually deploy with our maintenance squadrons, 300 people. Twenty to 30 of them are the pilots, and then the rest are the maintainers. And so it's the entire squadron. We morph into an expeditionary squadron. And so there are 300 people that head out. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 16:03 So I imagine, you know, on top of the fact that it was such a rapid movement, there's probably things that people had to obviously work through family. This needs to happen. But what were some things that you experienced in that deployment, or even in just that transition? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 16:21 Again, I go back to taking care of people. I was a flight commander at the time. We had two flight commanders, so I'm in charge of basically half the squadron, and we had a really wonderful commander who gave us the authority and the autonomy to leave the squadron. So, you know, it's about saying, like, “How are you guys doing at home?” Half our squadron didn't even have tan flight suits. You know, we're trying, we're working with logistics. We're trying to get everything ready. Like, does everybody have a go bag? Does everybody even know what a go bag is? Do you have the things you need? So working all of that. And then do you have the childcare figured out? Do you have the — how is all your family doing? Are you ready for this? And then we had to do a bunch of last-minute training before we left. And so it's a really busy time, but it was one of the first times where I felt like I had an influence on the people that were under me, that I had supervised. And so it was a really great experience to solve those problems, figure it out and help people get off the ground in four days successfully, and leaving something, some semblance of structure at home. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 17:24 So you said it was the first time where you kind of really felt that you had that impact. What would you say kind of maybe crystallized within yourself in learning that? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 17:36 I think it really solidified. I think I said, “I try to lead by taking care of people,” right? I truly believe if you take care of the human, they're going to do a really great job. You don't have to ask much of people at work and in their professional life, if their personal and the human side of them is taken care of and so that's kind of what I mean when I say that solidified it for me, like, make sure that the humans are good to go, and they'll go do anything you want to do. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 18:04 Wow. So while on that deployment, you're leading half of that squadron. What were some of the challenges maybe that you experienced, and how did you grow as a leader during that timeframe? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 18:14 Scheduling is definitely a tough one. So we flew daytime and nighttime. We basically had an F-22 airborne for almost 24 hours a day for the entire six months, six and a half months. We left and we were told it might be two- or three-month deployment, and then it turned into six months. And then we got delayed up coming home. And so then we stayed through Christmas. And those are the things that really are tough for people. But we have a limited number of jets that we took. We have a limited number of pilots; we have a limited number of maintainers and parts. And so I think for us, managing a schedule between me and the other flight commander, managing a schedule, managing quality of life for everybody, and make sure that we're not burning people out, or that they're not —we're flying eight-, nine-, 10-hour sorties, right? And that's exhausting. It's just you and that airplane with your wingman and a different airplane. And so you have to manage, again, that human factor. The human capital is probably the toughest thing to manage. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 19:15 Wow, and you talked about how the deployment kind of got extended. What were some things, because many of our listeners and our viewers are leaders, and at different levels of leadership and different times in their lives where they're doing that. When you were leading, and you had some of those subordinates, or those that were working with you that really experienced some troubles, through emotions, through some of that. How did you help navigate them through that when you were all in that as well? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 19:46 Right. You know, I think at NASA especially, we talk about self-care being a huge part of team care. And so making sure I do this in my regular life too, but, you know, making sure that you're getting enough rest, making sure that you're taking care of yourself and your personal life, so that you can truly be present for the other people that need you. And I think being present for others is one of the biggest things that you can do. You know, they may not need a ton of help, or they may not need the solution, but being there, being available and being present for people is really important. But you can't do that unless you're good to go yourself. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 20:18 Did you see that from someone? Did you learn that from someone you saw doing that? Or just, how did, I mean NASA's — you said, NASA, but did you see that at the Academy? Or where did you kind of gather that? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 20:28 You know, I think one of the things that hit me hard about showing up and being present was actually more professional. I kind of skated through the Academy on minimal sleep, and I was able to manage everything. But I wasn't flying a $143 million airplane. And so, in pilot training, we started to talk about crew rest and pilot rest. That's the first time that I had heard this concept of, “You need to go home and get rest so that you can be on your game.” Because flying airplanes, your decisions have real consequences, right? And you have to be present and available, and you have to be on your game to fly airplanes and do well in airplanes. And then the faster and the higher and the better the airplane gets, the more on your game you have to be. So I think it's something that has just kind of evolved in me. And then, as a leader, I realized, if you don't have any gas in the tank, you cannot help somebody else. And so for me, it's just kind of been, over the last decade and a half, of, wow, I need my sleep. I need to make sure I'm good to go. I need to make sure my human is good, so that way I can help other humans. And yeah, when your decisions have real consequences, it's important that you're present and you're ready to go. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 21:43 Have you seen some of the fact that you prioritize that for yourself, for you as your own human? Have you seen others kind of like see that, view that, and actually take that on as well themselves. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 21:53 Yeah, I think they do. And I think, as a leader, it's really important to set that example. The commander cannot be the first one in last one out. Like, you just can't do that, because everybody's going to stay until you leave. So setting the example, setting the example of having a good home-life balance as well. Like, home and work have to be balanced. Sleep has to be balanced. Again, self-care is the biggest part of team care, I think. And if you model that, people start to realize it's important. You know, the younger people that might burn themselves out trying to get somewhere, trying to get to the next step, or trying to impress somebody, or whatever the case may be, if they see you taking a step back and they see your success, maybe then they can start worrying about themselves too. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 22:34 I think that's a great lesson, leading by example. For sure. There are probably moments that you experience both at the Academy, while flying the F-22 or as an astronaut, where you don't have the luxury of balance. How do you navigate that and how do you help others get to that space maybe quicker? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 22:53 I think of everything as a season in life. It might just be a busy season, and you might just have to put some time in but making sure that you are planning ahead and know that you're gonna be able to take some time and reset. And that could be anything, right? That could be personal life, professional life. That could be the four-week training trip that we've got is going to be rough, and its multiple time zones, and it's a ton of training, it's a ton of information. You just have to get through it. But then, that week, when we got home, I made sure my schedule was a little lighter. Whatever the balance is, I think of things in seasons. Crew-10 can do hard things, right? And that came from — you can get through this next training session, right? But we're gonna do a mask-to-suit transition, which is like in a fire, you've got a mask on. You have to get from that mask into your spacesuit. It's a significant physical event. And there's limited oxygen; there's limited ability to breathe in the suit when in that specific environment. And so how do you slow down, take the breaths you need to get in there to not then get to a point where you're panicking, right? Or that you're too exhausted or too hot or overdid, or whatever it is, right? So I think even just that, that is a season. We're going to do two hours of this. That's my season, and then we'll get out of the simulator, we'll take a break, right? And if it happened on orbit, it would be like, “We're going to get through this. We're going to solve the problem. We're going to manage the emergency, and then once things are set, we'll have a moment to breathe.” So that's kind of how I think of it. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 24:21 Did seasons come something, a term that you kind of realized maybe at the Academy, you were a volleyball athlete at the Academy, and so volleyball has a season. But my question is, like, how did you come to that realization? Like, “Oh, I can get through this, and I put it in a bucket of time.” Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 24:35 You learn a lot of time management at the Academy, and when you're in the fall, you're really busy, spring season is less busy, and so you kind of learn early how to manage. Like, “OK, I've got to run. I gotta sprint,” right? “And then I can jog later, or I can walk later.” So, I think you learn that growing up in school, and you know, if you play sports or you do extracurricular activities or other things like that, or even just seasons in life at home, life ebbs and flows. I don't even know when I started saying it, but my sister and I started saying “seasons of life” to each other a long time ago. You know, she's got three kiddos, so she's been in all sorts of seasons. But, yeah, it's just, you know, I think I started to time block things, or block things off and just, and that's the only way you're going to get through life, is if you focus on what you need to do right now, be good at it, and then move to the next thing. You can have an idea of what's coming next, but you have to be present and do what you're doing there. Yes, so, yeah, seasons, time, blocks, whatever you want to call it. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 25:39 I like that. Well, you brought up your sister, and so you're an auntie of three. Let's talk about your personal life and leadership, some experiences you've had navigating your schedule. You're on the road so much. How do you prioritize? I guess the things that are important to you when you have such a heavy schedule, yeah, being on the road and the people that are important to you, right? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 26:03 Man, I think that for me, my family has been a huge support system my whole life. My twin sister — built in best friend.   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 26:13 And who is older? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 26:14 She is. She's got me by a minute. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 26:18 OK. Does she hold that over you?   Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 26:20 Yes, of course she does. We've just always supported each other 100% and everything. She's been my biggest cheerleader through all of my life, and I've been her biggest cheerleader through all of her life. And you know, my main goal in life is to be the coolest auntie, like the best auntie, and I would die happy. And they're a huge priority to me. I see them every couple two to three months — since my oldest has was born. So for the last 14 years, just made it a priority, even if it's like, leave late on a Friday night and then get home late Sunday night, I make the effort to go see them and to interact with them. And you know, to help foster them. You know they're growing up. And I love watching kids grow up and experience the world and see what can be done. Their dad's a Marine, their mom's this really successful real estate agent, their auntie' a pilot-slash-astronaut. You know, they've got, like, all these no family that's really not doing very much. Yeah, you know, they've got all these really great role models. And my goal is to just show them that it doesn't matter who you are, like they only ever know me as auntie. Like they know I'm an astronaut, and they love that. Their friends know that I'm an astronaut. Anti vapor, no, no, yeah. But, you know, like, they're always gonna get a big hug from auntie, like, that's, that's what's important to me. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 27:36 Well, you mentioned, going into space, being an auntie. So, would you describe your time and space is, it's probably out of this world. I mean, that's, wow, that's terrible. That's terrible I said it that way. But I think you've mentioned it is kind of the best time in your life. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 27:52 Yeah. Best five months my life. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 27:56 Best five months of your life, and it's passed. Now, when we think about our evolution, whether personally, professionally, as leaders, etc., we have these ideas in our mind, like, this is the pinnacle. How do you navigate what's next after you've experienced that pinnacle? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 28:14 Yeah, that's a great question, and I think it's something that a lot of us struggle with when we come home. What's next? We get six months, some time to think and kind of get reintegrated. And you don't necessarily have to go back to work right away. I was able to spend a ton of time with my sister and her kiddos. Yeah, what's next. And I think for me, like the drive out to the launch pad, I was like, “Man, I've made it.” You know, the first time I looked out the window from Dragon, “I've made it.” First time we crossed the hatch, and I went and looked out the glass like, “Wow. The hard work paid off.” And I still feel like that to this day. I would have spent four more months in space if they had asked me to, and I would have turned around and launched right back then the day that we landed, and it was because of the crewmates that I spent it with and the fulfillment that I got from the mission. But I think you can find fulfillment in a lot of ways. And you know, my job, now that I've been back, I'm going to be working with the new class of astronauts and their training for spacewalk. So in the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, our big pool, like, my job is to be their mentor as they go through the spacewalk training. And you know, like, I cannot wait. I'm so excited. I cannot wait to have an impact and try to help teach this next generation of spacewalkers, this next generation of astronauts, to be better than us. I find a lot of fulfillment in making the next generation better. So I think, however the fulfillment shows up for people, I think as long as you can find something, there you'll be happy. Going to space was great, but teaching and instructing and mentoring is also really fulfilling for me. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 29:54 And that will be 10 of them? How many will that be? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 29:55 Ten.   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 29:56 Ten. So then you'll have 13. You'll be auntie to 13. Oh, that's wonderful. What have you learned about yourself since then? You know, you've evolved as a leader through different situations, high threat, high risk. Safety is paramount. All of those different experiences. And now you're back on Earth and you're about to, you know, mentor. How have you evolved your leadership, and where would you say you're trying to go? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 30:23 Where am I trying to go? I think, for me, leadership is also about being vulnerable and being open and honest with people about failures or hardships and so, you know, like in the flying community, if you make a mistake, you're immediately like, “Hey, I messed this up. Here's how we fix it.” And that's something that we do at NASA as well, especially on a grand scale, right? Thousands of employees and everybody like, that's the only way that we get to space is by admitting when we've made mistakes, talking to each other about how we fix it and sharing those lessons learned. And so I think that especially when you get into the higher roles of leadership, it's important to go, “Hey, I messed up,” or, “Hey, I don't know the answer.” And being transparent with the people that you're working with. And if you don't know it, but you know where to go find it, like, “I'll get that answer for you,” instead of making up an answer, trying to figure out how to look like you're in charge, right? It's really important to me to also show that we don't know everything. We're human. We make mistakes, and it's OK to make mistakes, as long as you share it, and you share the lessons learned, and you make the next person better. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 31:32 Did you experience that personally? Did you have a moment in which you had to say, “Hey, I made a mistake,” and that's helped you realize that being vulnerable is really important or is that just something you've seen done really well? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 31:40 Oh, I've admitted a lot of mistakes. You know, I made a couple pretty big mistakes in the Raptor. Everybody's gonna make a big mistake at some point in their life. And, you know, I think that that was something that was modeled really well in the flying community early on. And it's something that's not tolerated if you're not willing to share your lessons learned. It's not tolerated in that community. That's a really good thing. I learned that in pilot training, right? If your buddy in your class makes the same mistake the next day that you made, you get in trouble because you didn't tell them how to how to prepare. And so it's fostered early on, especially in the flying community. I can't speak to any other community because I grew up there, but it's fostered early on, and so it's just something that comes naturally. I think eventually, because you just, you've seen it done so many times, and if you want other people to succeed, you're going to do it. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 32:29 All right. Well, we have two questions left. The first one is, what's something you do every day to be a better leader? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 32:37 That's a good one. This is gonna sound silly, but I sleep. Like, I'll go back to the self-care thing, right? Like, I put a lot of attention into being healthy, being hydrated, sleeping well. Like, if you take care of your body, your mind is going to do way more for you. And so I think you can show up as a better leader if you show up, rested, hydrated, fed, worked out whatever you need to do to be the best human you can be. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 33:09 That's what I try to do. OK. I like that a lot, and I think that's a good indication for me that six hours is probably not enough. Naviere needs a little bit more. And it's truth, because you told me, though I'm gonna do that. The second one is, if you could go back in time, maybe what's something you would have told yourself — your younger self — or maybe, as our cadets are listening, that you've learned and what they can be doing now to be a better leader down the road. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 33:34 If you run into a hardship or you fail at something, or something feels insurmountable, or you don't feel like you're ready, good enough, or whatever the case may be, doubt starts to seep in, right? I would say, rely on the support system that you have. Rely on the people around you. Talk about it. Figure out, you know, “Hey, I failed this GR, like, man, this kind of sucks.” And you know, maybe you just need to hear me say it out loud, and maybe I just need to get it off my chest, or maybe I need help trying to figure out the solution for whatever the case may be. So, you know, I had a built-in team on the volleyball team. I had a built-in friends and teammates that I could lean on. Maybe that's your squadronmates or your classmates, or whoever it is, right? And I think finding the friends that you can rely on for the rest of your life. Professionally, I've got a friend here that I met in the F-22 community. We've been friends for almost a decade now, and he's still one of the first people that I call when something happens, like, “Oh, I messed this up today. Help.” So, you know, finding a support system. My sister's the other person that I call first off. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 34:38 She probably knows you're gonna call when you call. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 34:39 Yeah, we talk way too much. But, you know, having that support system around you and finding people that really bolster you and get you across that line and help you find the courage to take the next step, I think that's really important. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 34:54 I know I said there was only two, but as I've listened to you, I just think you're just you're just remarkable, and maybe what's something that you're proud about yourself as a leader. I would really love to hear that in your, you know— Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 35:05 I think the thing that makes me the most proud as a leader is when somebody succeeds and it's something that I helped them do. I've had somebody come back and say, “Thanks for saying that.” That pushed me out the edge, you know, like, I'm really into building the next generation and make them better than us. And so if I see somebody succeeding, that's good. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 35:27 Well, this has been incredible. Is there anything that we didn't cover that you would love to share with the Long Blue Line in our community? Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 35:33 Oh, man, the community is great. I think I would just say thank you to the community. I've gotten so much love and support from Coloradans, but also the Long Blue Line and the Air Force in general. You know, I love the community that we have. It goes right back to what I just said, right, finding a community that supports you and pushes you to do better and be better. And this is that community. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 35:55 Well, Vapor, I promise I'm gonna get more sleep, and I just want to thank you for being such an incredible leader and guest here on Long Blue Leadership. Col. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers 36:03 Thanks for having me back. Absolutely.   Col. Naviere Walkewicz 36:05 Thanks. You know, this conversation was really incredible with Vapor. I think some of the things that really stood out to me is just how incredible as a human she is. She brings humanity into leadership. She puts people first. She thinks about the team. She works hard. Don't forget to prioritize sleep. But I think really, some of the lessons that we can all take away can hit us all personally, because if you think about people first and taking care of them, and the fact that you have to take care of yourself too, you can go really far in leadership. So I really appreciate her today on Long Blue Leadership. And I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. Until next time.   KEYWORDS Joel Neeb, Long Blue Leadership, Air Force Academy leadership, USAFA leadership, military leadership podcast, leadership development, leadership lessons, character-based leadership, leadership under pressure, leading with integrity, decision making in leadership, mentorship and leadership, values-based leadership, service before self, leadership mindset, leadership podcast interview, military leadership stories, leadership for professionals, leadership for entrepreneurs, how to be a better leader, leadership growth.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation        

Dr. Lisa Riegel joins Rob Ramseyer to translate neuroscience into practical coaching leadership. She explains why behavior is the intersection of biology and context, how athletes' (and coaches') perceptions are shaped unconsciously, and why teams under stress often lose access to their best decision-making. The conversation moves from brain science to culture-building: psychological safety, proactive leadership, conflict, and why compliance-based leadership produces short-term obedience but not long-term commitment. Lisa closes with actionable routines coaches can use with large rosters to build self-awareness, self-regulation, and trust.Key Topics CoveredNeurowell + leadership: Why real change “starts in the brain,” not in policies.Biology + context: How leaders shape the environment to reduce friction and increase performance.Safe, supportive, proactive culture: A framework for building teams that sustain pressure.Perception filters: Why athletes respond differently to the same coaching behavior.Stress states & performance: Calm → alert (good) → alarm (bad decisions).Team-wide strategies: How to teach self-awareness at scale without needing a massive staff.Psychological safety: Not softness—an engine for disagreement, learning, and resilience.Positivity as training: How routines that notice “good” can shift team worldview and cohesion.Compliance vs commitment: Why punishment-based leadership backfires and what to do instead.Rapid fire: Favorite book, definition of success, favorite podcast, and a daily joy practice.Practical Takeaways for Coaches1) Coach the brain, not just the behaviorAthletes' reactions are often driven by unconscious perception filters. If a player shuts down, it may not be “attitude”—it may be how your style is being associated with past experiences.2) Teach self-regulation like a skillLisa offers a simple framework coaches can run in groups: “Name it, Own it, Control it.”Name it: What do you look/feel like when you're losing control?Own it: What's underneath it—what fear is driving the reaction?Control it: What works for you in the moment (breathing, reset routine, self-talk, walk-away, etc.)?3) Build “safe, supportive, proactive” cultureSafe: Emotional + intellectual safety (including real uncertainty around AI and change).Supportive: Agency + autonomy with accountability.Proactive: Don't get mad at predictable barriers—plan for them.4) Normalize conflict and train resolutionPsychological safety includes how a team handles conflict without fear of getting crushed or ignored.5) Use simple routines to shift team mindsetLisa describes the power of building “positive noticing” into team life (e.g., “two good things” at dinner; appreciation loops in teams) so athletes begin scanning for what's working, not only what's wrong.6) Replace compliance with commitmentPunishment may create compliance, but coaches want buy-in. The better pattern: clarify the “why,” provide a replacement behavior, and reinforce progress with meaningful positive feedback.Memorable Lines / Concepts“Behavior is the intersection of our biology and our context.”“You can't be upset by predictable situations.”“Compliance isn't commitment.”“When the alarm system takes over, the thinking brain checks out.”Books Mentioned / RecommendedNeurowell — Dr. Lisa RiegelAspirations to Operations (includes the 8C Commitment Framework) — Dr. Lisa RiegelAvailable on Amazon.Connect with Dr. Lisa Riegel (lisariegel@epinstitute.net)Educational Partnerships Institute (Founder & CEO): www.epinstitute.net Books: Neurowell and Aspirations to Operations (Amazon)www.lisariegel.com

Leadership can look shiny and still feel lonely. In Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Yusuf sits down with business consultant Shelley Cadamy to name the mental load behind entrepreneurship. This episode is for founders, CEOs, and high-responsibility leaders who feel pressure to stay “strong” while quietly running on empty. Shelley reframes resilience, normalizes the messy stages of business growth, and shares grounded ways to protect your mind while you build. About the Guest: Shelley Cadamy is a business consultant at Cadamy Business Consulting who has supported business owners and CEOs since 1999. She's currently completing a Master's in Social Work after realizing how much leadership support is also mental health support. She's also a foster-adoptive parent. Episode Chapters: 00:07:39 — The quiet truth of entrepreneurship 00:08:45 — When leadership starts to feel lonely 00:09:40 — Resilience isn't “just push through” 00:11:33 — Treat mental health support like any other expert resource 00:13:27 — The business life-cycle: stop making it a personal flaw 00:17:03 — Stress signals + avoiding “sparkly” quick fixes 00:19:40 — The ROI of peer groups and coaching Key Takeaways: Redefine resilience as leveraging strengths plus self-care, not just pushing through. Use experts early—coach, consultant, therapist—like you would a CFO or HR partner. Normalize the “awkward adolescent” phase of growth so you don't internalize it as failure. Watch for stress signals: sleep, mood, self-care drop, and decision-making turns reactive. When overwhelmed, don't buy quick fixes—pause, name the state you're in, and get grounded counsel. How to Connect With the Guest: Website: https://www.cadamyconsulting.com/  Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

Send a textSpacemen, speak truth. On today's episode, we go a little deeper into a previously explored topic--honesty. We've been working with more men lately who may struggle to be honest, fearing the repercussions, or just feeling stuck in the habit of white lies or omission. So, we diagnose your problem and give you the familiar Manspace Tri-Tip to help you be more honest. You can't wait. Admit it. Keywordshonesty, lies, relationships, communication, vulnerability, trust, self-awareness, social science, honesty exercisesKey  TopicsTypes of lies: black, white, ParetoReasons behind dishonesty in relationshipsImpact of honesty and deception on trustExercises to promote honesty and vulnerabilitySound Bites"The drummer's stamina in live shows is incredible.""Normalize honesty to build trust and intimacy.""Share small vulnerabilities to build connection."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Honesty and Lies01:11 Discussion of the song 'White Lies' and band RxBandits02:02 The significance of the album 'And the Battle Begun'03:10 Band preferences and musical insights04:11 The drummer's incredible stamina and live performance05:01 Children, honesty, and self-protection06:19 Innovative guitar techniques and slide guitar07:22 The emotional impact of slide guitar and harmonica08:30 Review of the series 'Scrubs' and its seasons09:59 Honesty in relationships and the importance of vulnerability11:54 Types of lies: black, white, Pareto white lies14:10 Why people lie and the motivations behind dishonesty16:23 Gender differences in lying and honesty18:28 Studies on lying: social science insights22:17 The role of masking and social performance24:34 The importance of honesty for connection and trust28:28 Practical exercises to foster honesty in relationships36:41 Addressing shame, self-deception, and honesty barriers43:58 Normalizing honesty and emotional expression52:24 Building a culture of honesty and repair55:58 The importance of owning feelings and reactions01:00:18 Sharing vulnerabilities and small honest acts01:02:51 Conclusion and encouragement to practice honesty ResourcesRxBandits - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RxBanditsScrubs Series - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrubs_(TV_series)Honesty and Vulnerability Exercises - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-moment-youth/201911/the-power-honesty-in-relationshipsSpread the word! The Manspace is Rad!!

This week, I am again featuring as my guest, Norma Peterson, Executive Director of Document the Abuse, to talk about the lasting impact of the Stacy Peterson case and the broader importance of documenting abuse when systems fail survivors. Our conversation explores how power, media narratives, and institutional silence can obscure truth—and why preserving survivor stories is not only important, but necessary. As Executive Director, Norma oversees the organization's survivor-centered advocacy, education, and documentation initiatives. A central focus of her work is the Evidentiary Abuse Affidavit, the primary tool used by Document the Abuse to help survivors formally record patterns of abuse, coercive control, and systemic failures in a clear, structured format. Norma explains that the affidavit is typically used to create a contemporaneous, survivor-authored record that can support legal proceedings, civil actions, advocacy efforts, or simply preserve the truth when no formal action is taken. Norma also shares insight into the mission behind Document the Abuse, the importance of accountability, and how documentation itself becomes a form of advocacy—particularly in cases where justice remains unresolved. This episode is a thoughtful examination of memory, truth, and our collective responsibility to listen, even when answers are incomplete and outcomes are uncertain. For listeners who want to learn more or support this work, Document the Abuse is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving survivor voices, documenting patterns of abuse, and ensuring that stories are not erased when systems fall short. Through tools like the Evidentiary Abuse Affidavit and survivor-centered leadership, the organization works to center truth, accountability, and the belief that documentation can be a powerful step toward justice. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please consider leaving a 5-star rating on your podcast platform—it truly helps more people find these stories. You can also follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and you feel like you might be ready to share your story—whether for your own healing or to help someone else—reach out to me. We can start a conversation, with no pressure and no expectations. You can email me directly at dave@sasstories.com. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I genuinely prefer to talk with people who are considering guesting. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out—and please keep those emails coming. I truly look forward to hearing from you. Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore. Where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so. Thank you—for listening, for believing survivors, and for being part of this community. https://documenttheabuse.org https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

Moving Towards TensionLeaders Make It Better "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:11, ESV) True growth is painful. It comes after testing, heat, pressure, or resistance. Most people run from the pain of tension, but wisdom tells us tension is necessary if you want to keep growing. Likewise, an organization will not grow by eliminating all tension; it grows by embracing it in a healthy way. Consider this: Toyota is known for building vehicles with remarkable reliability. They consistently hold some of the highest resale values in the automotive market and are regularly recognized for longevity and durability. But Toyota did not become synonymous with quality by accident. In the decades following World War II, Japanese automakers were not globally respected. Toyota had to fight its way into credibility. Their breakthrough came when they made a radical decision to prioritize quality over speed. While many manufacturers focused on producing more cars faster, Toyota chose a different path. They developed what became known as the Toyota Production System, often referred to as Lean Manufacturing. Lean manufacturing removes unnecessary complexity. It strips away waste. It refuses to grow comfortable with inefficiency. But perhaps most remarkable is this: Toyota literally built tension into their assembly line. At the center of their system is something called the Andon system (Andon means lantern in Japanese). Running alongside the assembly line is a bright cord. At any moment, any worker, regardless of rank, can pull that cord. And when they do, the entire production line stops. Not slows down. It stops. In an industry obsessed with speed and output, Toyota empowers the person with their hands on the product to halt the entire line if they see something wrong. Why? Because they understand that small tension now, prevents catastrophic failure later. So what does that mean for us? If a company can embrace tension in a system that produces cars, why would we try to avoid it in a church that is building people? Tension is the stretch we feel when growth pulls us beyond our current comfort. It's not a sign that something is wrong; it's a sign that something needs to grow. Learning how to lean into it and use it is key. Let me give you a practical example. Since September, we've seen a significant increase in first-time guests. At the same time, I felt something was off in our follow-up systems. We're not seeing the retention I expected, so I "pulled the cord," in a manner of speaking. What we found was alarming. Systems we designed years ago are no longer adequate or effective for where we are now. We became too comfortable with automation. Our contact reads like scripts and templates. It isn't personal. It isn't surprising that we haven't received a reply to any of our texts or emails since October. It hasn't been personal; it hasn't felt real. Personal is powerful, and artificial is inauthentic. If we want God to keep sending people, we have to truly see people. Do you feel the tension? HOW TO MOVE TOWARDS TENSION 1. RECOGNIZE TOMORROW'S GROWTH REQUIRES TODAY'S PAIN Two months ago, I shared "Moving Away from Complexity." I didn't realize at the time just how timely that message would be for us. We've worked hard to move from an older version of Grace World to the healthy expression we have today. Yet this cannot be our stopping place. There is a future version of our church that is leaner and stronger than we are right now. Getting there will require the right amount of pain. We have to embrace the tension. Time under tension is the only way to produce growth. If you've been feeling tension, that's a good thing. Lean into it. Don't run from it. If you haven't been feeling tension, it's likely you're too comfortable and need to challenge yourself. Comfort says, "This is what got us here." Leaning into tension asks, "What will get us there?" • Look for your current pain points. • Find a leadership book, podcast, or coach that will stretch you. The key is to decide today that you will embrace the tension. 2. ASK, "IS IT MISSION CRITICAL?" We are not a program-driven church. We are a mission-driven church. We show people who Jesus is and introduce them to the fullness of life that He offers. We help people discover life in fullness. To do this… We Awaken hearts. We Connect in community. We Train for purpose. We Send into fullness. Everything we do should be regularly run through that filter: Does this awaken? Does this connect? Does this train? Does this send? If it doesn't clearly move someone toward life in its fullness, we must refine it or release it. A clear mission should create tension. Every program. Every event. Every activity. Every role. Each must answer the question: How is this mission-critical? • Review your events and ministries through the lens of our mission. • Look for measurable fruit. • Are you duplicating efforts? • Where are you doing too much? • Make sure you and your team know exactly how this moves the mission forward. Remember, clarity of mission protects our calling. 3. MAKE FEEDBACK YOUR FRIEND Every member of this team needs to be able to pull on the rope. You see things we can't see. We cannot fix or refine what we refuse to see. Invite them into the feedback loop. We depend on an amazing team of pastors, campus staff, group leaders, and Kids and Student leaders. It takes teamwork to make this dream work. When was the last time you invited feedback or felt that yours was truly welcome? Normalize post-event debriefs: • What worked? • What didn't? • Where was there confusion? • What was missing? • Schedule regular check-ins with key teams and leaders. • Invite input before making major adjustments. • Ask, "What are you seeing that we are missing?" • Reward their honesty, not just their harmony. A lack of feedback usually means we've grown comfortable. You have to challenge the system. 4. HAVE THE HARD CONVERSATIONS You cannot move a team or organization forward without embracing hard conversations. These are the conversations that challenge the status quo while moving us toward the mission. Avoiding these conversations may protect your comfort, but having them protects our culture.• Separate identity from assignment. • Anchor the conversation in our vision and values. • Remember, the first goal of communication is clarity. • Land on clear action steps. If we know our vision and live out our values, we already have a framework for every hard conversation. It's built into the culture. Pull on the rope! SHARPING THE EDGE If we want to stay sharp as a church, as leaders, and as a team, we cannot run from tension. We must lean into it. The right kind of tension is not a threat to our culture; it is proof that we care enough to grow. So here is the action step: pull the cord. This week, identify one area where something feels "off" in your ministry, your systems, or even in yourself and address it directly. Don't ignore it. Don't normalize it. Lean into it. Remember, leaders make it better. And sometimes making it better means embracing the friction that sharpens us.

Sometimes you just have to hit record and talk honestly. In this Editor's Note episode, UNB Tim pulls back the curtain on what's happening behind the scenes with Underwear News Briefs, the podcast, and the growing Free the Bulge movement. This episode is about transparency, community, and the future of everything we're building together. Two major things are happening right now: • The launch and growth of the Free the Bulge movement • Expanding the Patreon community to support the shows and future projects UNB Tim shares the inspiration behind the movement, the long-term vision for building real community, and how listeners can be part of it. ⸻ The Free the Bulge Movement Free the Bulge isn't just about underwear, swim briefs, or spandex. It's about confidence, acceptance, and community. For years, UNB Tim has heard the same thing from guys in the underwear and gear communities: • “Where can I meet other guys like me?” • “How do I find friends who understand this side of me?” • “Why does society shame men for enjoying what they wear?” Free the Bulge is about changing that. It's about creating a space where all men are welcome — gay, straight, bi, curious — anyone who loves gear and wants to feel confident in their own skin. Because when guys talk about underwear, gear, or swimwear, something amazing happens: Their faces light up. And that joy deserves a community. The long-term goal is simple: • Build a supportive community • Encourage body confidence • Normalize men enjoying what they wear • Eventually create real-world meetups and events This movement has been in the works for years, and now it's finally time to make it happen.   ⸻ What's Coming Next The Free the Bulge movement is rolling out in phases. Some things already underway include: Weekly Free the Bulge Posts Every Monday on Underwear News Briefs, UNB Tim will post: • personal stories • thoughts about confidence and body positivity • updates on the movement • future community ideas Some posts will be personal. Some may include guest voices. But they'll all come straight from the heart. Live Podcast Discussions Another upcoming feature is interactive live shows. Using Riverside, listeners will be able to: • join live recordings • call in • share their stories • participate in honest conversations Because the best discussions happen when the community is involved. Listener Stories One of the most exciting parts of the movement is hearing from listeners. Through the new contact form on the site, guys can: • share their stories • talk about confidence • discuss how gear became part of their identity Some stories may appear on the blog. Others may turn into podcast interviews. The goal is simple: Let real guys tell their stories. ⸻ Future Meetups & Trips One of the long-term goals of the movement is something many listeners have been asking for: In-person community events. UNB Tim is exploring ideas like: • community meetups • gear-friendly travel trips • group travel to places like • San Diego • Chicago • Miami • Palm Springs • Puerto Vallarta • even international destinations Imagine traveling with a group of guys who share the same interests and confidence. That's where this movement is headed. ⸻ Supporting the Podcast Through Patreon Running the blog and podcast takes time, resources, and tools. UNB Tim shares exactly how Patreon support currently helps keep things running. Monthly costs include: • Podcast hosting • Canva for graphics • Riverside for recording • website storage and infrastructure Right now Patreon brings in about $115–$135 per month, which essentially covers the core expenses of running the show.   But growing Patreon would allow the show to expand even more. Future goals include: • hiring an editor • compensating regular co-hosts • producing more shows each week • recording podcasts on location at events One piece of gear UNB Tim is looking at is a portable podcast recorder that would allow live recordings at events like Kink Down South and other gatherings. ⸻ Patreon Perks Joining Patreon helps support the podcast and unlocks bonus content. Patreon members may get: • extended conversations • behind-the-scenes discussions • bonus segments • experimental shows and topics The main podcast will always remain free, but Patreon helps make additional content possible. There's also a free Patreon membership option, which will act as a newsletter for updates about: • Free the Bulge • new podcast episodes • blog updates • community plans ⸻ Why This Community Matters The underwear and gear community has always existed. But it hasn't always had a place to connect. Free the Bulge is about creating that space. A space where guys can: • share their interests • build friendships • feel confident • talk openly without shame And that community only exists because of you — the listeners. ⸻ Listen to the Upcoming Shows Two episodes are dropping this week: • Brief Talk Podcast with Zach • Stretching the Truth — Short Suits in Spandex with Scott (Fourway) Make sure you check both of them out. ⸻ Join the Community If you want to be part of the movement: Share the podcast. Follow the blog. Tell your story. And most importantly: Be confident in what you love. ⸻ Support & Follow UNB Blog https://underwearnewsbriefs.com Patreon https://patreon.com/unbblog Instagram https://instagram.com/unbtim BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/unbtim.bsky.social Reddit https://reddit.com/r/unbstoreandblog Brief Talk Podcast Available on all major podcast platforms ⸻ If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and help grow the community. Because the more guys who join the conversation… the stronger the community becomes. — UNB Tim

What if lower stress is not a personal failure issue, but a policy decision? In this episode, we explore a global study identifying the world's most tranquil nations and what they are doing differently. Countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany are leading in personal well-being not because they work harder, but because they work smarter and protect boundaries. These nations prioritize work-life balance, mandate generous vacation time, and reject the cultural narrative that glorifies burnout. France reinforces the structural importance of leisure, embedding rest into its labor policies and national identity. Finland consistently ranks among the highest in life satisfaction, driven by cultural resilience, trust, and a deep societal focus on happiness. The takeaway is clear: stress reduction is not random. It is systemic. It reflects values, laws, leadership, and cultural norms that place human wellness above constant productivity. If you are navigating high-pressure environments, leading teams, or trying to reclaim your own mental clarity, these “chill champion” nations offer a blueprint. The question is not whether it is possible to reduce stress. The question is whether we are willing to design for it. Key Discussion Points Why Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany outperform others in well-being How policy decisions shape workplace culture The hidden cost of glorifying professional burnout France's cultural protection of leisure time Finland's resilience model and life satisfaction rankings What leaders can implement today to reduce systemic stress Actionable Takeaways Audit your calendar and protect non-negotiable recovery time. Evaluate whether your team rewards output or sustainability. Redesign performance expectations around long-term effectiveness, not short-term exhaustion. Normalize rest as a strategic advantage. Why This Matters Burnout is not inevitable. It is designed into systems that value relentless productivity over human capacity. These global examples prove that another model works. If we want calmer leaders, healthier teams, and sustainable performance, we must stop treating stress as a badge of honor and start treating well-being as infrastructure.

Tanja Brown, behavior analyst and psychologist, released a groundbreaking memoir revealing the impact of her age-gap relationship with a man 26 years her junior, while raising an autistic child. Unapologetically honest and intimate, this book is not about defending choices, but provides a powerful example for women navigating midlife, caregiving, love and identity. Tanja is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed School Psychologist. She is the mother of two, one of which is a daughter with autism spectrum disorder. She immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 20 from Soest Germany and is an entrepreneur and writer living in Colorado. She blends clinical insight with real-world experience and a women navigating midlife on her own terms. Flipping The Script: A Decade of Borrowed Time is her first major work of non-fiction.The book is a raw, funny and deeply intimate memoir about love, desire, motherhood and the courage to choose aliveness in the middle of real life. Set against autism motherhood, midlife reinvention and a decade-long relationship with a man 26 years younger, it explores what happens when a woman stops living by the rules she was given and starts listening to herself instead.Learn more and follow Tanja:https://tanjabrown.org/https://www.instagram.com/tanjabrownauthor/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584367389168

Are your employees telling you they're overwhelmed — but the work still looks like it's getting done? Or are you throwing people into the deep end on day one and wondering why they're burning out or checking out?The problem might not be the people. It could be that you don't have a shared language for capacity.In this episode, Martin and Khalil break down a simple but powerful framework for understanding where your employees are at — and what to do about it. You'll walk away with a mental model you can start using in your next one-on-one.Key Topics & Timestamps00:53 - Why “Overwhelmed” Means Different Things to Different People03:01 - A Real Hiring/Onboarding Example: The “Overwhelmed” Employee Who's Doing Great04:00 - The 4 Performance Zones Framework (Green/Yellow/Orange/Red)10:04 - Deep Dive: What Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red Actually Look Like16:46 - Make It Actionable: Teach the Zones + Manager Moves for Each Color19:17 - Normalize the Yellow Zone: Growth, Challenge, Reflection (and Wrap-Up)Key TakeawaysDefine what each performance zone looks like for each role in your company — green for your office manager looks different than green for your field lead.Make the zones part of your company language: teach them to your team, post them, and reference them in every one-on-one.Ask "What zone are you in?" regularly — not just during formal reviews, but in passing conversations.When an employee hits the orange zone, look at what you've assigned them before blaming their capacity; it's usually a management decision that got them there.If someone lands in the red zone without warning, that's a sign they weren't communicating — and a sign the environment didn't make it safe to.Don't mistake a comfortable employee for a productive one; if someone's in the green zone in year one, you're leaving their growth on the table.Apply the growth equation to every stretch assignment: challenge them, then give them structured time to reflect on what they learned before adding the next thing.Resources⁠Drive by Daniel Pink "When Things Are Hopeless" article ⁠⁠⁠⁠Implementing AI in Your Business Workshop Sign-Up ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠24 Things⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Construction Business Owners Need to Successfully Hire & Train an Executive Assistant⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a 15-Minute Roadblock CallBuild a Business that Runs without you. Explore our⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ GrowthKits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Need Marketing Help? We Recommend⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Benali⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need Help with podcast production? We recommend⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Demandcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Checkout ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Quo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ More from Martin Holland⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theprofitproblem.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠annealbc.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email Martin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Meet With Martin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More from Khalil⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠benali.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email Khalil⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Meet With Khalil⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More from The Cash Flow ContractorSubscribe to our⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow On Social:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X(formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Cashflow Contractor

How do athletes stay mentally strong under pressure—and how can we apply those lessons in our own lives? In this episode of Normalize the Conversation, we explore mental resilience lessons from sports psychology with actionable insights for managing stress, anxiety, and high-pressure situations.We dive into the balance between extrinsic motivation (the trophy, accolades, or approval) and intrinsic “heart” motivation (connection, confidence, and choice), and discuss practical strategies for living intentionally according to your values. In this episode, you'll discover how to:Strengthen mental resilience in high-pressure situationsBalance external rewards with intrinsic motivationTransform anxiety and self-doubt into personal growthLive intentionally according to your core valuesListen now to Mental Resilience Lessons from Sports Psychology and learn how to cultivate mental toughness, confidence, and motivation in sports and everyday life.

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. On this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Jessica Zucker about her book Normalize it: Upending the Silence, stigma and Shame that Shapes Women's Lives, (affiliate link) which examines women's experiences from girlhood through menopause, including miscarriage, body image, motherhood, and friendship, and aims to dismantle the silence, stigma, and shame surrounding them. Highlights Unspoken Pain and Joy Replace Silence with Stories Miscarriage Stigma and Shame Motherhood Without a Village Three-part framework—acknowledge it, share it, normalize it Menopause Friendship Grief and Loneliness About the author Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She's been featured on NPR, CNN, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her second book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives, is out now and available everywhere books are sold.  

If you own a 1–2 location med spa and want the option to scale or sell in the next 3–5 years, this episode breaks down what actually makes an aesthetics practice valuable — beyond surface-level revenue growth.  Strong revenue alone does not make your med spa sellable. Buyers care about predictability, repeatability, clean financials, and reduced owner dependency. In this episode, I'll explain what private buyers, partners, and lenders really evaluate when assessing the enterprise value of a medical spa.    Common Mistakes that Lower Your Med Spa's Enterprise Value  Whether you're years away from selling or just want to increase your business value, this episode will help you focus on the core elements that make your business not just worth running—but worth buying.   Even profitable, cash-flowing med spas can struggle to sell if:  Financial reporting isn't clean EBITDA isn't normalized The owner is still the bottleneck Systems aren't documented Growth depends on personality rather than process  Enterprise value determines whether your growth is transferable and durable.    From Owner-Dependent to Sellable Med Spa: A CFO's Perspective  You'll learn how to shift your mindset from emotional attachment to your work towards making smart, strategic, and financially sound decisions that attract the right buyers. From building clean financial infrastructure to understanding the importance of normalized EBITDA, I'm sharing real-world examples and reasoning, including why presenting trustworthy financials and reducing owner-dependency can make or break a potential sale.   Listen for these 6 key insights:  The difference between owner-dependent profit and institutional profit Why EBITDA normalization matters when selling a med spa How personal expenses distort financial optics Why clean financial infrastructure builds buyer trust How tax strategy can impact your exit valuation What buyers look for in multi-location aesthetic practices    Action Steps for Scaling and Selling Your Aesthetic Practice  If selling — or scaling — is even a remote possibility in the next 3–5 years:  Ensure your books are clean and up to date for at least 3 years Separate personal expenses from business operations Normalize revenue and expenses to reflect true operating profit Evaluate owner dependency in day-to-day operations Document SOPs for treatment delivery, leadership reporting, and financial processes Assess whether your med spa could operate without you for 60–90 days  If your practice cannot function without you, you've built an income stream — not an asset.    Thinking About Opening Another Location?   "The best thing you can do when you're exploring a transaction with a potential buyer is to establish trust through clean financials, establish that trust that they have reliable data they're working off of, and then everything else is seamless." - Shannon Weinstein    Before expanding, ask:  Are your current economics repeatable? Is your EBITDA consistent and defensible?  Could a second location follow the same financial blueprint?  Scaling without institutional structure multiplies risk. Scaling with documented systems multiplies enterprise value.    Financial Strategies to Prepare Your Aesthetics Business for Sale  If you want to evaluate whether your med spa is positioned for scale or exit, start with the Financial Scaling Playbook for Aesthetics. Get it today: www.keepwhatyouearn/playbook  This free 5-part video series walks you through:  Offer profit Operating margin Cash flow management Customer lifetime value Enterprise value readiness      Follow Shannon & Keep What You Earn:   Shannon Weinstein is the founder of a fractional CFO firm specializing in helping 7-figure aesthetics and wellness practices scale with clarity, cash flow, and confidence. Host of the "Keep What You Earn" podcast, Shannon provides practical financial insights and strategies for business owners looking to build truly valuable and sellable practices. She breaks down what it means to create a business buyers will pay a premium for—going beyond surface-level metrics to address the essential financial building blocks. Shannon is committed to helping med spa owners understand, fix, and maximize their business's enterprise value, offering actionable advice and resources, including a popular free video series specifically for aesthetics practice owners.   Fractional CFO Services and Executive Financial Review: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/  Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein  Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepWhatYouEarn  Listen on your favorite podcast app: https://pod.link/1580071347  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/    The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not individualized financial advice. Aesthetics practice owners should consult a qualified professional before implementing financial strategies discussed here. 

Let me introduce you to this week's guest, Dr. Asher. I wanted her here on the show because she is someone whose work sits at the intersection of lived experience, rigorous research, and embodied understanding of trauma. Dr. Asher is a survivor, a scholar, and a systems-level educator who has spent more than two decades studying what sexual trauma actually does to the brain and nervous system—and what institutions consistently get wrong in their response to it. Her work is not abstract. It is not performative. And it is not built on buzzwords. Dr. Asher speaks from lived survivor experience while also bringing PhD-level qualitative research and a deep, somatically grounded understanding of how trauma lives in the body. She challenges organizations to move beyond surface-level "trauma-informed" language and into something far more difficult—and far more necessary: trauma-responsive cultures that protect dignity instead of unintentionally repeating harm. Healthcare systems. Law enforcement. Universities. Legal professionals. Faith communities. Policy leaders. These are the environments where response matters most. These are the environments where misunderstanding trauma can compound damage. And these are the spaces Dr. Asher is actively influencing. Her upcoming Soul Care for Self-Care Summit on Saturday, Mar 14, 2026, from 10 am to 2:30 pm MDT is a reflection of that commitment. It is designed to center survivor voice without spectacle, without pressure, and without forcing disclosure for the sake of optics. The summit focuses on clarity, nervous-system safety, ethical leadership, and real accountability. Not just performance, or branding, but real change! It's a free summit, and it's for rape and sexual assault victims, of course. But if you're not a victim/survivor, but care for, are acquainted with, or love someone who is, you can be part of this summit, too! Here's the link to sign up: https://tinyurl.com/soulcare4selfcare If you care about how the sexual assault trauma brain is understood—or misunderstood—inside institutions, this episode matters. Because what happens after disclosure can either support healing… or create a second injury. Dr. Asher is working to make sure it doesn't do the latter. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please consider leaving a 5-star rating on your podcast platform—it truly helps more people find these stories. You can also follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and you feel like you might be ready to share your story—whether for your own healing or to help someone else—reach out to me. We can start a conversation, with no pressure and no expectations. You can email me directly at dave@sasstories.com. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I genuinely prefer to talk with people who are considering guesting. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out—and please keep those emails coming. I truly look forward to hearing from you. Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore. Where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so. Thank you—for listening, for believing survivors, and for being part of this community. https://tinyurl.com/soulcare4selfcare https://dr-asher.com/ https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

Much has been said about Alvin Aragon — at oo, gumawa pa kami ng 3-part series sa The Sentinel Ph para himayin ang issue. Check it out after watching this video. Pero sa episode na ito, iba ang focus natin: paano hinandle ng media ang buong issue? May mga nagsasabi na wina-weaponize daw ang Christianity laban sa LGBTQ community. Pero tanong: posible rin bang ang media naman ang wine-weaponize para i-normalize ang LGBTQ ideology? Kung isa kang kabataan today na kumukuha lang ng impormasyon sa mainstream media at news sites — walang guidance ng magulang — malamang ang magiging conclusion mo: LGBT lifestyle = GOOD. Christianity = ARCHAIC. Matapos ang Alvin Aragon issue, sunod-sunod ang celebrity reactions. Pag-usapan natin ang mas malaking picture: Why is it na mas madalas ibalita ang trans representation sa beauty pageants, pero hindi ang mga kaso ng trans athletes dominating women's sports gaya ng nangyari kay Lia Thomas? Bakit hindi mas napag-uusapan ang mga policy debates sa Europe kung saan may pushback na sa gender ideology — tulad sa Hungary, Romania, Sweden, United Kingdom, at Finland? Agenda ba ito? O simpleng selective reporting lang? Kung gusto mo ng perspektibong hindi mo madalas marinig sa local mainstream media, make sure to subscribe, hit the notification bell, at i-share ang video na ito. Follow The Sentinel Ph for more content like this. Dahil kung hindi natin pag-uusapan ang kabilang side — sino pa? #AlvinAragon #MediaBias #LGBTQDebate #ChristianPerspective #GenderIdeology #TheSentinelPh The Media is WEAPONIZED to Normalize LGBTQ IdeologyJay Aruga's Book "Conservative Ka Ba? A 3-Step Approach to Protecting the Family from Woke Ideology" is NOW Available in Shopee: https://shopee.ph/product/274489164/25685460706/ Subscribe to our Youtube channel:http://www.youtube.com/@OfficialTheSentinelPH?sub_confirmation=1

What if the spaces we celebrate and work in are quietly overwhelming a lot more people than we realize? In Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, hosted by Avik (with Sana filling in), this episode explores neurodiversity, sensory overwhelm, and what inclusion actually looks like beyond policies. This conversation is for event creators, founders, HR leaders, and anyone who feels drained by noise-heavy culture. You'll walk away with grounded insight on burnout stigma, boundaries as a leadership practice, and practical ways to build environments where more people can belong and thrive. About the Guest: Nika Brunet Milunovic is the founder of Calm Nest Collective, creating sensory-friendly, inclusive spaces for events, workplaces, and public venues. She's also a social worker, PhD researcher focused on mental health and neurodiversity in the events industry, a mentor, and host of the Pink Nest podcast. Episode Chapter: 00:05:15 — Why loud “success culture” overwhelms the nervous system 00:06:19 — Nika's work: sensory-friendly design for events and workplaces 00:09:05 — The “we're all the same” design myth starts in school 00:11:50 — Why neurodivergent people thrive in events—and the hidden cost 00:14:04 — Burnout stigma: why freelancers stay silent to keep the next gig 00:17:27 — Boundaries + values: the leadership operating system 00:22:17 — “Festivals can't accommodate everyone”—Nika's direct response Key Takeaways: Treat inclusion as design, not a policy checkbox—start with sensory needs. In high-intensity industries, regulation skills matter as much as performance. Normalize mental health like physical health—burnout isn't a character flaw. Founders unintentionally recreate harmful systems when they break their own boundaries. “Ask, don't assume”: real inclusion starts with curiosity and conversation. Sensory-friendly upgrades don't have to be massive—intention + planning changes everything. How to Connect With the Guest: Nika is active on LinkedIn (primary). She's also on Instagram, and you can find Calm Nest Collective and Pink Nest via her websites and social profiles mentioned here   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

“It's up to us to regulate ourselves first, because when you walk into a room from a regulated, open nervous system state, it's contagious.”In this episode of Business is Human, Rebecca Fleetwood Hession shares five practical shifts that create real nervous system safety at work so people can access better thinking, creativity, and collaboration. She reframes “love vs. fear” as the difference between a protective, vigilant state and a connected, open one, then walks through what leaders can do to move teams out of constant urgency and into clarity, trust, and grounded momentum.  In this episode, you'll learn:Why self regulation is the first leadership responsibility and how your tone, pace, and presence set the room  How clarity beats pressure and why “important” is not the same as “emergency”How to normalize real humanity, name uncertainty, and recover from mistakes without shame  Things to listen for:(00:00) Introduction(03:08) Building teams where people feel safe and seen(05:45) Regulation first your nervous system sets the tone(08:51) Clarity over pressure leading without urgency(12:13) Slow the moment down when everything feels urgent(14:24) Notice effort before you measure outcome(16:35) Normalize humanity mistakes emotions and repairConnect with Rebecca:https://www.rebeccafleetwoodhession.com/Get tickets for Stand Tall in Your Story (March 12): https://www.rebeccafleetwoodhession.com/

In this Workday Playdate, Erin dives into the discomfort of “good awkward” with Henna Pryor. Henna is a workplace performance expert, keynote speaker, and author who helps teams build social fitness in a world that's forgotten how to human. Together, they unpack why our social muscles have atrophied (thanks, tech + pandemic isolation) and how leaning into micro-discomfort can radically improve leadership, communication, and team cohesion.This episode is your permission slip to stop polishing and start connecting.Inside This Episode:Social Muscles Are Flabby: Why hyper-connectivity is sabotaging real connection—and what it's doing to workplace communication and confidence.Micro-Disagreements, Major Growth: How low-stakes conflict and social repetition build trust, resilience, and stronger teams.Asking for Help Without Spiraling: The surprising stat: 1 in 3 employees would rather clean a toilet than ask for help. Let's fix that.The Neuroscience of Shared Moments: Why laughter, eye contact, and shared awkwardness boost psychological safety and belonging.Normalize the Awkward: How naming “good awkward” in real time reduces fear and strengthens authentic leadership.Language Builds Safety: Practical scripts to express discomfort, validate emotions, and create space for real dialogue.Humor as a Leadership Strategy: Why playfulness lowers defensiveness, reduces conflict anxiety, and makes feedback easier to hear.Good Enough > Perfect: Ditching perfectionism to build faster recovery and stronger comeback rates in tough moments.Recovery Rate > Failure Rate: Why resilient leaders focus less on avoiding discomfort and more on how quickly they bounce back.Make Work a Playground Again: Micro-exercises and small social reps teams can use immediately to rebuild connection and confidence.Who This Episode Is For:Leaders who want to build psychological safety without the corporate fluffPeople managers craving stronger team connection and communicationHigh achievers unlearning perfectionismRemote and hybrid teams rebuilding social confidenceHumans ready to trade polished for presentYour FreebieYou want to support your people the same way you want to be supported—but in fast, emotionally charged moments, the right words can be hard to find.Enter, your free resource - Human Leadership in the Age of AI: An Empathy Playbook. It gives you a simple, 3-part list of human-first phrases you can use in meetings, emails, and one-on-ones.Empathy isn't extra anymore. It's essential. Download your Empathy Playbook here.Connect with Henna PryorHenna's LinkedInHenna's websiteHenna's InstagramHenna's book, Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become The Bravest YouConnect with Erin Diehl x improve it!Erin's websiteErin's InstagramErin's TikTokErin's LinkedInimprove it!'s websiteimprove it!'s InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There's a silent struggle that many couples face—issues of pain, discomfort, or disconnection in intimate life that go unspoken and unattended. For so long, pelvic floor challenges have been seen as private burdens to bear alone, surrounded by stigma or confusion about where to turn for help. But what if we viewed these not as individual problems, but as shared matters that impact the whole relationship? Could better understanding and open conversation actually transform your intimacy and emotional connection? In this episode, you'll discover how pelvic floor health influences pleasure, pain, and intimacy—and why these challenges are best faced together, not solo. Drawing from expert insights and practical guidance, you'll learn how increased awareness and communication can bridge the gap between partners, foster support and compassion, and empower you with tools for healing. Whether you're struggling silently or simply want to deepen trust and connection, this conversation offers actionable steps and hope for anyone ready to turn hidden struggle into shared strength. Since 2007, Dr. Sara Reardon has been caring for people's pelvic floors as a board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist. She is the Founder of The V-Hive, an online pelvic floor workout platform for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, painful sex, and pelvic floor strengthening. As The Vagina Whisperer on Instagram and TikTok, she has hundreds of thousands of followers. She is the author of FLOORED: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage.   Episode Highlights 03:53 Understanding pelvic floor anatomy and its impact on intimacy. 07:50 Breaking stigma and introducing pelvic health conversations. 09:37 The role of partners and destigmatizing pelvic floor challenges. 14:47 Exploring pelvic floor dysfunction: Causes and effects on relationships. 18:56 Pelvic floor health and sexual pleasure.. 21:16 Exploring arousal: Physical and emotional components. 23:13 Daily habits and exercises for intimate health. 28:26 Tools, devices, and progression in pelvic floor therapy. 36:35 Debunking myths: Arousal, climax, and individual differences.   Your Check List of Actions to Take Learn about your pelvic floor anatomy to understand how it affects day-to-day functions and intimacy. Openly discuss pelvic health and intimacy challenges with your partner to reduce shame and foster teamwork. Attend pelvic floor therapy sessions together when possible for shared education and support. Practice mindful urination and bowel movements—sit fully, breathe, and avoid straining or "power peeing." Incorporate pelvic-friendly exercises such as yoga poses (e.g., child's pose, pigeon, happy baby) to encourage muscle relaxation. Explore self-stimulation privately to discover which types of touch and stimulation are most pleasurable or comfortable. Consider using vaginal trainers or dilators, starting small and gradually increasing size, and involve your partner for support and collaboration. Normalize communication around sexual pleasure, pain, and individual needs, recognizing that every body and relationship is unique.   Mentioned Floored (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) V-Hive (*Google Play link) (app) Online Workouts (free workout) Come as You Are (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Squatty potty (e-commerce website) Vaginal Dilators (e-commerce website) 12 Relationship Principles to Strengthen Your Love (free guide) Connect with Dr. Sara Reardon Websites: thevagwhisperer.com Facebook: facebook.com/thevagwhisperer YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UC2MllrS6zD974pxBFbVUHdA Instagram: instagram.com/the.vagina.whisperer LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sara-reardon-pt-dpt-wcs-4a6b1025 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thevagwhisperer  

This week I sit down with Norma Peterson, Executive Director of Document the Abuse, to talk about the lasting impact of the Stacy Peterson case and the broader importance of documenting abuse when systems fail survivors. Our conversation explores how power, media narratives, and institutional silence can obscure truth—and why preserving survivor stories is not only important, but necessary. As Executive Director, Norma oversees the organization's survivor-centered advocacy, education, and documentation initiatives. A central focus of her work is the Evidentiary Abuse Affidavit, the primary tool used by Document the Abuse to help survivors formally record patterns of abuse, coercive control, and systemic failures in a clear, structured format. Norma explains that the affidavit is typically used to create a contemporaneous, survivor-authored record that can support legal proceedings, civil actions, advocacy efforts, or simply preserve the truth when no formal action is taken. Norma also shares insight into the mission behind Document the Abuse, the importance of accountability, and how documentation itself becomes a form of advocacy—particularly in cases where justice remains unresolved. This episode is a thoughtful examination of memory, truth, and our collective responsibility to listen, even when answers are incomplete and outcomes are uncertain. For listeners who want to learn more or support this work, Document the Abuse is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving survivor voices, documenting patterns of abuse, and ensuring that stories are not erased when systems fall short. Through tools like the Evidentiary Abuse Affidavit and survivor-centered leadership, the organization works to center truth, accountability, and the belief that documentation can be a powerful step toward justice. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please consider leaving a 5-star rating on your podcast platform—it truly helps more people find these stories. You can also follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and you feel like you might be ready to share your story—whether for your own healing or to help someone else—reach out to me. We can start a conversation, with no pressure and no expectations. You can email me directly at dave@sasstories.com. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I genuinely prefer to talk with people who are considering guesting. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out—and please keep those emails coming. I truly look forward to hearing from you. Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore. Where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so. Thank you—for listening, for believing survivors, and for being part of this community. https://documenttheabuse.org https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

You've recruited dozens. Maybe hundreds. You know the scripts. You know the process. You understand the industry. So why does recruiting anxiety still show up? In this episode of Recruiting Conversations, we get honest about something even high-performing leaders rarely admit: recruiting is personal. And when something is personal, it can feel vulnerable. If you've ever hesitated before making the call or felt resistance before following up, this episode will help you understand why, and what to do about it. Episode Breakdown [00:00] The Real Question Why does recruiting anxiety show up even when I've been doing this for years? [01:00] Recruiting Is Personal You're not just filling a role. You're asking someone to consider a major life change. That carries weight. [01:45] Reason 1: You Care About People Leaders who lead with heart don't want to pressure or manipulate. That care is good. Unchecked, it can turn into hesitation. [02:15] Reason 2: The Stakes Feel Higher When top producers consider joining you, it matters. They're trusting your leadership. Perfectionism can creep in and create paralysis. [02:45] Reason 3: Past Rejection Leaves Scar Tissue Ghosting. Silence. Hard no's. Even experienced leaders carry recruiting wounds they never processed. [03:15] Reason 4: Your Standards Have Grown You're no longer talking to anyone. You're looking for culture carriers. And when the bar rises, the fear of missing it rises too. [03:40] Reason 5: Imposter Syndrome Never Fully Disappears Even successful leaders have days where the voice says: Who am I to invite them into this? That voice doesn't mean you're unqualified. It means you're human. [04:00] What Do We Do About It? Acknowledge it. Normalize it. Build systems that move you forward anyway. Confidence is not the absence of anxiety. It's the presence of clarity. Clarity about what you're building Clarity about your value Clarity about your outreach rhythm Clarity about why your leadership matters [04:45] Final Reframe If recruiting still makes your stomach flip, that's not weakness. It's evidence that what you're doing matters. Start the call anyway. Hit send anyway. Follow up anyway. The best recruiters don't wait to feel confident. They take action and let belief grow along the way. Key Takeaways Recruiting Anxiety Is Normal – Especially for leaders who care deeply High Stakes Create Emotional Weight – That doesn't mean you're not capable Past Rejection Can Linger Quietly – Process it instead of carrying it Raising Your Standards Raises the Pressure – That's maturity, not weakness Clarity Beats Confidence – Build systems that guide action even when emotions fluctuate Recruiting changes lives. It reshapes teams. It creates new futures for people. If it feels weighty sometimes, that's because it is. But don't let the weight stop you. Let it remind you that what you're building matters. Ready to Build a Recruiting System That Reduces the Pressure? If this episode resonated with you and you want help building a recruiting structure that replaces hesitation with clarity, let's talk. You can book time directly on my calendar and we'll walk through: Where anxiety is showing up in your recruiting rhythm What systems might be missing How to build a consistent, confident outreach cadence And how to scale recruiting without carrying the emotional weight alone Go to bookrichardnow.com and grab a time that works for you. You do not have to figure this out by yourself. Let's build a system that makes recruiting feel lighter, clearer, and more powerful.

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Small business ownership is widely celebrated for fueling innovation and community prosperity. Yet beneath the ambition and daily execution lies a critical and under-recognized leadership challenge: the mental health strain on owners themselves. This episode unpacks research showing how stress, isolation, and burnout are not “personal issues” but systemic factors that impact decision-making, resilience, performance, and organizational culture. Mental health must move from a private burden to a strategic leadership priority. Key Research & Findings 1. The Hidden Health Burden of Ownership Based on Nav's report surveying more than 1,000 U.S. small business owners. Nearly half (48%) report their business consumes so much attention it detracts from life outside work. Stress, fatigue, and anxiety are widespread: 53% identify stress as a common health impact. Over 40% report fatigue and anxiety. 36% experience headaches tied to work demands. A full third say they've experienced mental health challenges significant enough to warrant professional support — yet nearly half have not accessed it. 2. Why This Matters for Leadership Mental health strain affects more than the individual owner: It reduces decision clarity and confidence in high-stakes moments. It undermines resilience in volatile cash flow, competitive shifts, or market unpredictability. It bleeds into culture, performance, and long-term viability when leaders are mentally depleted. 3. Systemic Stressors in Small Business Owners must act as generalists — juggling finance, operations, sales, HR, and leadership simultaneously — with financial stress clearly leading as the top pressure point. Unlike traditional jobs, ownership often lacks daily psychological detachment, making recovery moments (rest, time off) rare and difficult. What Owners Are Already Doing Despite the strain: Many apply individual coping strategies: Exercise, mindfulness practices. Connecting with family/friends. Yet these efforts are undermined by structural barriers: Many owners haven't taken a full week off in more than three years. Cost concerns and self-reliance discourage professional support. Leadership & HR Imperatives 1. Mental Health Literacy is Leadership Literacy Leaders must build fluency in recognizing stress, burnout, and psychological fatigue — not as deficits of character, but as systemic outcomes of ownership. 2. Culture Design with Mental Health as Strategy Mental health needs to be explicitly integrated into leadership conversations, not limited to “well-being perks.” This means shaping organizational norms that: Normalize help-seeking. Intentionally embed recovery rhythms (time off, boundary setting). Build structural supports consistent with sustainable leadership. 3. Shift from Personal Burden to Organizational Priority Treating mental health as an individual issue misses the systemic impact on performance, resilience, and long-term success. Takeaways for Executives & Founders Reframe mental health as a strategic performance factor — not a personal aside. Design leadership practices that institutionalize psychological recovery. Expand support systems beyond fitness or mindfulness programs to include coaching, peer networks, and professional access. Measure and reflect on how mental strain affects decisions, productivity, and culture. Discussion Questions (for Leadership Roundtables or Workshops) In what ways is owner mental health currently visible or invisible in your organization's leadership ecosystem? What structural barriers (e.g., time off, cultural norms, resource allocation) are preventing small business owners from accessing support? How can leaders create deliberate practices that embed psychological recovery into the rhythm of work? Source article:  https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/mapping-the-hidden-strain-why-mental-health-must-be-part-of-the-small-business-ownership-conversation

5-figure days don't land in a body that doesn't feel safe holding it. You can't out strategize a frequency, identity, and nervous system that doesn't match where you are going. In order to normalize 5-figure days, it starts with this. Tune in today!   Join Famous 5 Figure Day Woman Code Get your ticket for the RICHCODED Live Event in Philadelphia here Apply to the RICHCODED Mastermind Enter into The Rewired Rich Room Connect on Instagram  

Learn how to sustain your manifestation energy after the initial wave of inspiration passes. In this session, we talk about the "longevity" of creation, the phase where real manifestation happens through sustainable, long-term practices. As we celebrate the Lunar New Year and enter the high-propulsion energy of the Year of the Fire Horse, Robyn and Colleen Benelli explore how to navigate the "gestation period" of your goals with grace and compassion. Saturn and Neptune conjunct in Aries on February 20th and after, guides your vision into form.  Discover how to Reiki your goal directly, break down large visions into micro-goals, and move from "outcome-focus" to "emotional frequency." Whether you are feeling the exhaustion of big energetic shifts or looking for the "next step" in your spiritual practices, this teaching provides practical, grounded tools to keep your momentum alive.

One reason why global elites are refusing to deal with the Epstein files is because they are trying to normalize pedophilia.

Struggling with constant sibling fights? Learn how to help siblings get along when one is dysregulated as Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, expert in Regulation First Parenting™, shares practical strategies to calm nervous systems, restore connection, and support every child's emotional growth.Feeling stuck in constant sibling fights? You're not alone. When one child is dysregulated, it can feel like refereeing a never-ending WWE match in your own home. But the good news? This isn't about bad behavior—it's about nervous system regulation.In this episode, I break down why sibling conflict happens, how emotional dysregulation impacts neurotypical siblings, and practical strategies for supporting siblings so the whole family can feel safer, calmer, and more connected.Why does my child fight more with their sibling than others?Sibling conflict isn't just about personality clashes—it's often a nervous system issue. When one child's brain is dysregulated, impulse control drops and neutral interactions can feel threatening. This stress spreads across the family, impacting other children and family dynamics.Key takeaways:Regulate first: Calm the dysregulated child before problem-solving.Name it: Explain, “Your sibling's brain is having a hard time—it's not because of you.”Protect siblings: Give safe spaces, predictable attention, and permission to step away.Parent example: One mom noticed her neurotypical child withdrawing during board games while her dysregulated younger child exploded. Simply creating a calm, structured activity time reduced tension and restored connection.How can I support my child while still giving attention to their sibling?It's tempting to split attention equally, but equity doesn't mean identical. A struggling child may need tailored support, while other kids still need recognition to avoid resentment.Tips for practice:Schedule one-on-one time with each child, even 10–15 minutes daily.Use family routines and predictable activities to lower stress for the entire family.Normalize dysregulation: “We all have hard moments—brains get overwhelmed.”

Are you leading with your soul—or letting ego and external pressures take over?In this episode of Normalize the Conversation, we explore how to lead with your soul first and live intentionally in every area of life.We discuss practical ways to connect with your intuition, embrace your inner guidance, and align your actions with your core values. Learn how to pause, reflect, and take small steps toward living authentically, creating an energetic presence that reflects your true self.In this episode, you'll discover how to:Connect with your intuition and inner knowingPresent your soul's essence in life and businessPause intentionally to make aligned decisionsLive with love, purpose, and clarity every dayListen now to Lead with Your Soul First: A Guide to Living Intentionally and start thriving by living from your soul.Learn More About Pam Buchanan: https://thequantumsense.com/

In this episode of Sexual Assault Survivor Stories, I sit down with Daniel—a listener who became a storyteller. Like many of the voices you hear on this podcast, Daniel didn't come to the microphone because he was certain or fully healed. He came because something in these conversations resonated deeply enough that staying silent no longer felt like the right option. What follows is a powerful, honest conversation about sexual assault, courage, and the complicated decision to speak when fear is still very present. Daniel first reached out to me unsure whether he was ready, or even capable, of sharing his story. We stayed in touch, talked it through, and over time he made the choice to step forward. That decision—made quietly, thoughtfully, and without pressure—says a lot about the kind of strength that often goes unseen. This episode explores what it means to sit with trauma, to question your readiness, and to eventually claim your voice on your own terms. This is a survivor-centered episode, and one that reflects something core to SASS: healing doesn't require certainty, polish, or confidence. It requires honesty and a safe place to land. Daniel's story is a reminder that courage doesn't always roar—sometimes it shows up as a single message sent, a difficult conversation, or the willingness to be heard. Listener discretion is advised. And if this episode brings anything up for you, please take care of yourself and reach out to someone safe. You are not alone. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please consider leaving a 5-star rating on your podcast platform—it truly helps more people find these stories. You can also follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and you feel like you might be ready to share your story—whether for your own healing or to help someone else—reach out to me. We can start a conversation, with no pressure and no expectations. You can email me directly at dave@sasstories.com. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I genuinely prefer to talk with people who are considering guesting. Thank you to everyone who has already reached out—and please keep those emails coming. I truly look forward to hearing from you. Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore. Where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so. Thank you—for listening, for believing survivors, and for being part of this community. https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

When life feels loud and uncertain, “it will be okay” doesn’t always help. Amy and Kat talk about how to show up without fixing, why validation matters, and what real support looks like. They also share what they’re feeling of the day, what they're reading and watching, including immersion reading and a perimenopause documentary that sparked a conversation about hormones, relationships, and why everything can feel turned way up. Amy reflects on her divorce, what perimenopause may (or may not) have influenced, and why understanding your body matters. Plus, a heartfelt voicemail from a listener in Alberta reminds them why the randomness, laughter, and everyday conversations matter...especially in hard seasons. 5 Things to Say Instead of “It Will Be Okay”: 1. “Gosh, this sounds hard.”Lead with validation instead of solutions. Naming how difficult something feels helps people feel seen rather than fixed. 2. “What do you need from me right now?”Before giving advice, check in. Sometimes people want help, sometimes they just want to be heard...and they may not even know yet. 3. “Sounds like you’re having a very human reaction.”Normalize their response. Fear, anger, sadness, and overwhelm are often appropriate reactions...not signs something is wrong with them. 4. “I don’t know the right thing to say, but I’m here.”Be honest and present. You don’t need the perfect words to offer support...your presence matters more than certainty. 5. “I’m bringing you over cookies.”When asking what someone needs feels like too much, take the guesswork out and do something tangible. Care doesn’t have to be complicated. Get some Feeling Things merch by clicking HERE! (FeelingThingsPodcast.com) Sign up for the Feeling Things newsletter HERE! Watch us on Youtube HERE! Call and leave a voicemail: 877-207-2077 Email: heythere@feelingthingspodcast.com HOSTS: Amy Brown // RadioAmy.com // @RadioAmy Kat Van Buren // threecordstherapy.com // @KatVanburenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a world dominated by short-termism, does it seem odd that private equity holding periods are getting longer?    Private equity professionals don't have different genes than other investors. They face a structural problem: too many portfolio companies cannot find a buyer.     Private equity-owned businesses continue to grow in number and size, but demand from IPOs and strategics has not – and likely will not – keep up. This means that more companies will have to remain within the private equity ecosystem.     The end of the private equity bottleneck is not in sight. Instead, the industry may be heading toward structural change.    In this WTT – Can Private Markets Normalize, I pose the question of whether private equity will ever be able recycle capital fast enough to support successive fundraises without strain.     The answer, I'm afraid, is no.  Read Ted's blog here.   Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠)

In this episode of Sexual Assault Survivor Stories, I sit down with Pamela France, author of the memoir Life Soup. Pamela shares her lived experience of childhood sexual abuse and the lifelong impact of trauma, alongside a deeply personal account of healing grounded in her Christian faith. Life Soup is not written to shock or sensationalize—it's written as testimony, reflection, and invitation for survivors who may feel isolated or unseen. Pamela's perspective is shaped not only by her own story, but by decades of service to others. She has worked in Child Protective Services, served students and families in higher education, and spent the latter part of her career as a school counselor. That combination—survivor, advocate, and professional—gives her voice a rare depth and clarity. This conversation explores what it means to carry trauma quietly, to live a functional life while still carrying unhealed wounds, and to slowly reclaim wholeness over time. This is a faith-forward episode, and it's also a survivor-centered one. Pamela's story reminds us that healing does not follow a straight line, and that hope can coexist with grief, anger, and unanswered questions. Listener discretion is advised. And as always, if this episode brings anything up for you, please take care of yourself and reach out to someone safe. You are not alone—and stories like Pamela's exist because silence should never have the final word. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these amazing episodes, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. AND, follow SexualAssaultSurvivorStories on Instagram, then, please send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and are ready to tell your story in order to help yourself or someone else heal, let me know, and we can start a conversation about the possibility of you being on the show. Here's my email address: dave@sasstories.com Thank you to all of you who have reached out to me already. Just provide me with a phone number where I can reach back out to you…because I like to talk to people who are interested in guesting. And please keep those emails and texts coming…I truly look forward to hearing from you! Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore, and where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so! — Thank you!! https://a.co/d/0dTZpc89 (Pamela's book on Amazon https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

In this candid and timely conversation, Robert and Kay Lee sit down with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo, co-hosts of the top-ranked One Extraordinary Marriage Show, to tackle a topic many couples think about—but few openly discuss: sex, intimacy, and connection in marriage. Drawing from nearly 30 years of marriage and over a decade of coaching couples worldwide, Tony and Alisa reframe intimacy as far more than a physical act. At its core, intimacy is about closeness, safety, and emotional connection—and when those are missing, sex often becomes the symptom, not the root issue. The conversation explores the "chicken and egg" tension many couples face: one spouse needs emotional intimacy before sex, while the other needs sex to feel emotionally connected. Rather than choosing sides, Tony and Alisa explain why both emotional and sexual intimacy must be strengthened together, a concept they outline in their best-selling book The Six Pillars of Intimacy. For entrepreneurial couples—especially those who work together—this dynamic can be further complicated by stress, blurred boundaries, exhaustion, and over-familiarity. The result? Desire fades, communication stalls, and intimacy becomes an afterthought. Throughout the episode, listeners receive practical, judgment-free strategies to rebuild connection: how to talk about sex without pressure or shame, why those conversations should not happen in the bedroom, and how tools like shared calendars, intentional planning, and even a "vision" for sexual intimacy can transform a marriage. From breaking taboos and starting small conversations to reigniting anticipation and creativity, this episode offers married entrepreneurs a refreshing, hopeful path toward deeper connection—without adding more strain to already full lives. Website: https://oneextraordinarymarriage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oneextraordinarymarriage [FREE] 6 Pillars Of Intimacy: https://6pillarsofintimacy.com Intimacy Mastery: http://intimacymastery.com/ Key Takeaways Intimacy ≠ sex alone: True intimacy is closeness and connection; sex thrives when emotional safety is present. It's not either/or: Emotional intimacy and sexual intimacy reinforce each other—and both must be nurtured. Normalize the conversation: Talking about sex is emotional intimacy and removes unnecessary tension and assumptions. Change the environment: Don't discuss sex in the bedroom—protect it as a sacred, pressure-free space. Start small: Short, low-pressure conversations build confidence and momentum over time. Entrepreneurial marriages need structure: Clear roles, shared calendars, and intentional boundaries reduce friction that kills desire. Anticipation matters: Surprise, creativity, and intentional planning reignite excitement—just like in business. Enhancement, not replacement: Tools and toys can support connection when used together, intentionally, and without shame. Vision creates momentum: Couples who plan and prioritize intimacy are far more likely to experience growth, not drift. Bio As co-hosts of the top marriage podcast in Apple Podcasts, the ONE Extraordinary Marriage Show, Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo speak to a worldwide audience about sex, love & commitment, and challenge every listener to make their relationship a priority. Their best-selling book, The 6 Pillars of Intimacy®, has transformed countless marriages around the world. This framework is simple, practical, and powerful. You'll be inspired to look at your marriage through a new lens and be encouraged by its commonsense approach. Want to live a better balanced life and win in marriage AND business at the same time? Purchase our (audio) book Tandem: The married entrepreneurs' guide for greater work-life balance. https://www.thetandembook.com/ Download the 5 Daily Habits to Thrive in Tandem https://marriedentrepreneur.co/5-daily-habits-download  Need some insight into how to balance it all? Schedule a free discovery call. https://marriedentrepreneur.co/lets-talk

What if your confidence didn't need to wait for proof—what if it's something you practice in the middle of uncertainty? In this episode, we unpack what it really takes to stay steady, self-assured, and mentally resilient while building a purpose-driven business. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, this conversation is for women founders (and anyone on a non-linear path) who feel self-doubt, external pressure, or the quiet need to “prove” their worth. Neli Kools shares how her journey—from architecture and urban planning to entrepreneurship—shaped her leadership, and why care, comfort, and dignity are deeply tied to women's confidence. About the Guest: Neli Kools is a global entrepreneur and co-founder of Intimate Queen, a purpose-driven lingerie and wellness brand focused on plant-based, comfort-first pieces designed for women's confidence and care. Key Takeaways: Treat confidence as a daily practice, not a reward you earn after success. Stop outsourcing your worth: focus on integrity, deliverables, and authenticity. When pressure rises, slow down—journal, meditate, and listen inward before deciding. Normalize non-linear growth: detours can widen vision and strengthen decision-making. Comfort impacts mindset: when the body feels supported, the mind feels lighter. Replace “prove yourself” with “trust yourself”—one step, one choice at a time. How to Connect With the Guest: Website: https://www.intimatequeen.com/  Instagram LinkedIn Email: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

Evangelical leaders helped deliver Trump to power. Now farmers suffer under tariffs and raids while mass detention camps expand. History warns this never ends with its first targets.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE

What happens when the world of GLP-1s collides with the operating room? Today, we're diving into the new era of obesity care. Hosts·       Matthew Martin, trauma and bariatric surgeon at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (Los Angeles, California) @docmartin2·       Adrian Dan, bariatric and MIS surgeon, program director for the advanced MIS bariatric and foregut fellowship at Summa Health System (Akron, Ohio) @DrAdrianDan·       Crystal Johnson Mann, bariatric and foregut surgeon at the University of Florida (Gainesville, Florida) @crys_noelle_·       Katherine Cironi, general surgery resident at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (Los Angeles, California) @cironimacaroniLearning objectives1.          Understand the evolving role of OMMs in bariatric surgical practice·       Recognize how widespread GLP-1 and dual-incretin therapies have reshaped patient presentations, expectations, and referral patterns.·       Appreciate current evidence comparing surgery to GLP-1 therapy, including the JAMA Surgery study out of Allegheny Health (2025), noting:o   Superior weight loss with bariatric surgery (~28% TBWL vs ~10% with GLP-1s)o   Higher health-care utilization and cost in GLP-1–treated patients.·       Frame OMMs not as alternatives but as complementary tools within a chronic disease model when treating obesity.2.           Review pharmacologic classes and their expected efficacy·       Surgeons should be able to articulate the mechanisms, efficacy, and limitations of:o   GLP-1 receptor agonists – incretin-based satiety; 5–12% TBWL.o   Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists – most potent agents; 15–22% TBWL.o   Sympathomimetics – norepinephrine-driven appetite suppression; 3–7% TBWL.o   Combination agents (bupropion-naltrexone, phentermine-topiramate) – 5–12% TBWL depending on regimen.o   Emerging therapies – retatrutide, maritide, oral GLP-1s, with promising TBWL in phase 2 trials3.          Apply OMMs strategically in the preoperative phase·       Integrate OMMs without compromising surgical eligibility—OMM-related weight loss does not negate the indication for surgery.·       Counsel patients that medication response does not equal disease resolution; surgery remains the most durable intervention.·       Manage delayed gastric emptying and aspiration risk:o   Pause weekly GLP-1 or dual agonists for ≥1 week pre-op (longer if symptomatic).o   Collaborate closely with the anesthesia/OR teams·       Screen for nutritional depletion before surgery, especially protein deficits exacerbated by appetite suppression.·       Navigate insurance barriers that may paradoxically approve surgery but deny medication continuation.4.          Implement postoperative OMMs safely and effectively·       Establish criteria for OMM introduction:o   Typical initiation at 6–12 months, once the diet stabilizes and the physiologic curve flattens.o   Earlier initiation (4–6 weeks) may be appropriate in pediatric or select high-risk populations.·       Recognize altered pharmacokinetics after sleeve and bypass:o   Injectables may be preferred due to altered absorption of oral agents.·       Prevent postoperative nutritional compromise:o   Monitor protein intake, hydration, and micronutrient status (including iron, B12, and fat-soluble vitamins).o   Titrate doses slowly to minimize nausea/vomiting that can precipitate malnutrition.·       Frame OMM use as a tool for disease persistence (plateau/regain), not as a marker of failure.5.          Identify systems-level barriers and the implementation of coordinated care·       Understand insurance inconsistencies—coverage for surgery is often not paired with coverage for long-term medical therapy.·       Clearly document disease persistence and medical necessity when appealing denials.·       Avoid fragmented care: establish shared-care pathways between bariatric surgery, obesity medicine, and primary care.·       Use patient-centered language emphasizing complementary therapy, not hierarchy or competition between surgery and medications.6.          Counsel patients ethically and accurately within a chronic disease model·       Set expectations: sustained success requires surgery + medication + behavioral change.·       Educate patients that postoperative OMM use does not imply surgical failure.·       Normalize long-term multimodal management of obesity, analogous to diabetes or hypertension models.*Sponsor Disclaimer: Visit goremedical.com/btkpod to learn more about GORE® SYNECOR Biomaterial, including supporting references and disclaimers for the presented content.  Refer to Instructions for Use at eifu.goremedical.com for a complete description of all applicable indications, warnings, precautions and contraindications for the markets where this product is available. Rx only Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://behindtheknife.org/listenBehind the Knife Premium:General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-reviewTrauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlasDominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkshipDominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotationVascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewColorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewSurgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-reviewCardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-reviewDownload our App:Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US

Thank you Elizabeth Silleck La Rue, Esq., Marg KJ, Wendy Bussiere, Barbara Jane Armstrong, John A, and many others for tuning into my live video!* Evangelical Pastors Enabled Trump—and Put America's Democracy on the Brink: Evangelical leaders abandoned Jesus's teachings to enforce loyalty to Trump—fueling authoritarianism and threatening democracy itself. [More]* Rural Collapse: Trump's Trade War and ICE Raids … To hear more, visit egberto.substack.com

The Regime's brazen new moves to rig elections and the everyday acts you can do to put yourself on the (very obvious) right side of history. www.charlesbursell.com

If you grew up in the '90s or early 2000s, chances are The Care and Keeping of You played a starring role in your introduction to puberty—especially if no one at home was talking about it. For so many families, those conversations were awkward, avoided, or skipped altogether. But what if they didn't have to be? In this episode, Vanessa is joined by Julie Taylor as they ask the question: how can we take the cringe out of puberty and replace it with honesty, confidence, and care? Joining as an expert guest is Dr. Cara Natterson—pediatrician, author, and podcaster—who served as a medical consultant on The Care and Keeping of You and has spent her career helping kids and adults navigate puberty with clarity and compassion. Dr. Natterson shares why these conversations matter, where we tend to go wrong, and how we can do better—for the next generation and ourselves.   Download the Chatbooks app now and start your Monthbooks today!

There are some episodes of this show that don't revolve around a single survivor story, but they still land just as hard—because they force us to look at ourselves. This is one of those conversations. It's not about recounting trauma; it's about what allows harm to keep happening in everyday spaces, and what it actually takes to interrupt that. This episode asks questions most people would rather avoid, and it does so in a way that's direct, practical, and impossible to brush off. My conversation with Amy Watson was exactly that kind of dialogue. We talked about prevention, responsibility, and the reality that good intentions don't create safer spaces—people do. We spent time talking about men's roles in this work, not as an accusation, but as a call to step up. Who speaks up when something isn't right. Who stays quiet. And how often silence gets mistaken for neutrality. Nothing about this conversation felt abstract. It was grounded in real-world behavior and real-world consequences. If you're someone who believes harassment and violence should be addressed before harm occurs—not just after—this episode is worth your time. Amy's work through HASSL is about action, not optics. About doing something when it would be easier to do nothing. Episode 175 isn't a passive listen. It challenges you to think differently about your role in the spaces you occupy and what responsibility actually looks like when it matters. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these amazing episodes, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. AND, follow SexualAssaultSurvivorStories on Instagram, then, please send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and are ready to tell your story in order to help yourself or someone else heal, let me know, and we can start a conversation about the possibility of you being on the show. Here's my email address: dave@sasstories.com Thank you to all of you who have reached out to me already. Just provide me with a phone number where I can reach back out to you…because I like to talk to people who are interested in guesting. And please keep those emails and texts coming…I truly look forward to hearing from you! Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore, and where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so! — Thank you!! https://hassl.uk/ https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

In this episode, I'm challenging the obsession with doing more, working longer, and being glued to the grind.Let's normalize the One Minute Man Theory—the idea that success doesn't come from endless effort, but from focused execution in small, intentional windows of time.Whether it's trading, self-improvement, business, or life, most people don't fail because they lack talent. They fail because they overcomplicate, overthink, and outwork their clarity.In this short but powerful episode, I break down:• Why focus beats hustle• How discipline is built in minutes, not hours• The mindset shift that changes how you approach trading and productivity• Why you already have everything you need to be greatThis isn't about shortcuts.It's about precision, intention, and consistency.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or pressured to do more just to keep up—this episode is for you.Connect & Build With Me ✨Join the community: https://whop.com/sniiper-academy/ ✨X/Instagram: @NINTRADEZ✨ Podcast: creators.spotify.com/pod/show/NINTRADEZ✨ Newsletter: https://substack.com/@snein ✨Email me for a free a 2-Hour 1:1 Coaching Session:  ✨Free Digital Products: https://payhip.com/NINTRADEZ ✨Business inquiries: NINTRADEZ89@gmail.com

Takeaways: - Care begins long before diagnosis.- Every four minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in India.- The fear of the unknown keeps women away from screenings.- 70-80% of breast cancer patients have no family history.- Know your breasts; self-examination is crucial.- Breast cancer is not a death sentence; it is treatable, especially when caught early.- Every year, gift yourself a preventive health checkup.- Normalize conversations about women's health at home and in society.- Empathy and communication are key in patient care.- Your health is as important as anyone else's; prioritize it.In this episode of Soul Velocity, host Snehal R Singh engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Namrata Singal Sawant, a breast consultant radiologist, about the critical importance of early detection and prevention in women's health, particularly concerning breast cancer. Dr. Namrata shares her personal journey, which began at the tender age of ten when she witnessed her grandmother succumb to breast cancer. This pivotal moment ignited her passion for women's health advocacy and early detection, leading her to explore the stark differences in breast cancer awareness and screening protocols between India and the United States. The discussion highlights the alarming statistics surrounding breast cancer in India, where many women are diagnosed at advanced stages due to a lack of awareness and cultural stigmas surrounding screenings.The conversation delves into the fears that prevent women from seeking preventive care, such as the fear of the unknown and misconceptions about mammography. Dr. Namrata emphasizes the importance of self-examination and regular screenings, urging women to prioritize their health and dispel the myths surrounding breast cancer. The episode concludes with a hopeful vision for the future of preventive healthcare in India, advocating for a cultural shift towards prioritizing women's health and normalizing conversations about breast cancer. Dr. Namrata's work aims to create a domino effect of awareness and early detection, ultimately saving lives and empowering women to take charge of their health.Programs by Snehal - https://linktr.ee/snehalrsinghAll books by MSW - https://linktr.ee/mindspiritworksLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/snehalrsingh/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/snehalrsinghInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/mindspiritworksFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/mindspiritworksllcYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SnehalRSinghCompany site - https://www.mindspiritworks.com/

In this episode, Abby and Vanessa recap the latest in Southern Charm including:  -Austen's relationship with his mom  -Craig and Charley's date  -A housewife like dinner from the men  -And more  When you're done listening, please don't forget to check out our ad sponsors. Vionic Shoes: Use code REALMOMS at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Wayfair: Head to Wayfair.com to shop all things home!  Acorns: Sign up now and Acorns will boost your new account with a $5 bonus investment. Head to acorns.com/REALMOMS or download the Acorns app to get started. Boll & Branch: Discover a softness beyond your wildest dreams with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/realmoms with code realmoms.  Quince: Go to Quince.com/realmoms for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.  Fabletics: Go to Fabletics.com/REALMOMS, take a quick style quiz, and be sure to select REALMOMS when prompted to unlock your 80% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a distinctive aspect to this show that makes it different from most podcasts in this genre, and I consider it a privilege and honor to recognize those of you who make it that way. Sexual Assault Survivor Stories is not built around celebrity guests, polished talking points, or rehearsed narratives. It exists because of something far more rare and far more meaningful—trust. Again and again, people who begin as listeners reach out, not to be heard for the sake of attention, but because they're finally ready to speak their truth in a space that feels safe enough to hold it. What makes this show what it is—what gives it its authenticity and its depth—is that, more often than not, my listeners become my guests. These are individuals who have sat quietly with these stories, sometimes for years, recognizing pieces of themselves in the voices of others. When they step forward, it's not to perform or impress, but to contribute to a shared act of healing. That transition—from listener to storyteller—is powerful. It's where courage shows up without fanfare, and where vulnerability becomes an offering rather than a risk. That is the soul of this podcast. It's why these conversations land differently. They aren't extracted or produced; they're entrusted. And that trust—extended to me, and to everyone listening—is what allows this space to be real, to be human, and to be healing. It's also what makes this show such a compelling listen, because what you're hearing isn't scripted or sensationalized. You're hearing people reclaiming their voices, often for the first time, and in doing so, reminding all of us why telling the truth still matters. And that brings me to this week's guest. Gemini's courage and fortitude are unmistakable in the way she tells her story—her sexual assault, the aftermath, and the complex reality of what it meant to navigate her experience at Saprea. This is not an easy conversation, but it is an honest one. Gemini speaks with clarity, strength, and a willingness to go places many survivors never feel safe enough to enter out loud, and her voice adds something essential to this ongoing dialogue. To Gemini—and to every guest who has trusted this space with their truth—thank you. This show exists because of your willingness to step forward, to be seen, and to remind others that healing is possible, even when the road there is long and uneven. Your voices are the heart of Sexual Assault Survivor Stories, and I'm deeply grateful for each of you. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these amazing episodes, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. AND, follow SexualAssaultSurvivorStories on Instagram, then, please send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and are ready to tell your story in order to help yourself or someone else heal, let me know, and we can start a conversation about the possibility of you being on the show. Here's my email address: dave@sasstories.com Thank you to all of you who have reached out to me already. Just provide me with a phone number where I can reach back out to you…because I like to talk to people who are interested in guesting. And please keep those emails and texts coming…I truly look forward to hearing from you! Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore, and where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so! — Thank you!! https://saprea.org/ https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

Beth is a survivor who reached out to me after realizing that memories she once believed were long buried were anything but inconsequential. As she explains, those memories began resurfacing as she engaged in EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing—with her therapist, opening the door to a deeper understanding of what she had endured. (It's amazing what a good sexual assault/rape therapist can do for clients!) Beth shares her experience inside a coercive and controlling relationship that ultimately included rape, and how that environment systematically eroded her self-image, autonomy, and ability to function long before she had language for what was happening. This deeply personal and sometimes difficult conversation explores how coercive control operates quietly and persistently—how manipulation, exploitation, and sexual violence can become normalized within relationships and obscured by expectation, loyalty, and silence. Beth speaks candidly, boldly even, about the long process of recognizing abuse for what it was, the internal conflict that came with that realization, and what it took to begin disentangling herself from a relationship designed to keep her powerless. We also talk openly about healing, therapy, and the ways Beth has reclaimed her voice and sense of self through intentional, transformative work. This is a difficult but necessary episode—one that sheds light on the realities of coercive control and affirms the experiences of survivors who may still be questioning their own. Beth's story is not only about survival; it is about clarity, courage, and the strength it takes to speak when silence feels safer. If any part of this conversation resonates with you, please know that you are not alone, and that what you experienced matters. Important information: If you're finding value in this show and these conversations, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. It makes a real difference. I'd also greatly appreciate for you to follow Sexual Assault Survivor Stories on Instagram and send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they truly fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor who feels ready to share your story—whether to help yourself heal or to help someone else—you're welcome to reach out. You can email me at dave@sasstories.com, and we can start a conversation about the possibility of you being on the show. Please include a phone number where I can reach you, because I prefer to talk directly with people who are interested in guesting. Thank you to all of you who have already reached out, and please keep those emails and texts coming—I genuinely look forward to hearing from you. Here are some websites for you to peruse, and if you can make a donation where a donation is asked for, thank you! If not, no worries…just you being aware makes a difference! https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave It is with gratitude and deep appreciation that I publish Beth's poem: Everything at Once My 1 st boyfriend, and I'm in love. Naïve, trusting and inexperienced, coerced onto the bed. He knows I not ready, I don't want to But he makes his move anyway Forced on my back, he's in between my legs The pain is excruciating My words – NO, NO, NO! His silence My words – YOU'RE HURTING ME! His silence My words begging him – STOP, STOP! His CHOICE to keep going Everything hits me all at once. I'm overwhelmed - Confusion, Panic, Why is he not responding to me? The pain He won't look at me I don't exist to him I'm not a person I'm an object Ignored, used – violated The pain Why won't he stop? He is my boyfriend. How could he be doing this to me? Shocked, betrayed – terrified. The pain I freeze, my body won't move I can't make it stop Please make it stop OH GOD – HE'S NOT GOING TO STOP! The pain My first time is against my will My first time – rape The excruciating pain Despair consumes me. My body says don't fight, don't move, don't breathe. It is wise and it takes over. I'm detached now and no longer feel the pain. There is a window on the wall behind the bed. To the left, a closet door. It's brown with 6 horizontal panels, each the same size running down the length of the door. The doorknob is old fashioned – An ivory knob with a decorative plate. We are in an odd position on the bed. Not at the top by the pillows but close to the bottom. Soft, white sheets are pushed up and wrinkled to my left instead of by our feet. In front of the bed, the bedroom door but I can't get to it. Trapped beneath him, on the right side of the mattress, I stare at the brown closet door With the 6 panels and The ivory doorknob . . .

In this episode, we'll explore the complexities of struggle in the context of gifted learners. I'll differentiate between 'green flag' struggles, which indicate depth and engagement, and 'red flag' struggles, which signal confusion and disengagement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of struggle, advocating for a shift in educational practices to better support gifted learners. Practical strategies for educators are provided to help them embrace struggle as a natural part of the learning process, rather than a failure to be fixed.

Being a widow is complicated. On top of the earth-shattering grief you experience, there's a huge societal pressure to be the perfect image of a grieving partner, missing the love of your life. But what if the person who died was actually kind of a huge jerk? How do you take care of someone who doesn't really deserve it? And what does it mean to be a good woman or a good widow? All of This: A Memoir of Death and Desire by Rebecca Woolf The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards by Jessica Waite Watch us on YouTube here! Get this episode ad-free here! Listen to Geoffrey's album on Spotify and Apple! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A viral video isn't a strategy. We open with Minneapolis and ask a harder question: how did we get to a place where leaders and media cues normalize stepping into federal operations as if it's content? When rhetoric turns risk into theater, the most vulnerable pay the price while commentators argue intent after the fact.From there we press into Portland's early framing of a “married couple” and the later admission of gang ties. Words matter. So do corrections that come late and land softly. We examine how selective language inflames communities, undermines trust, and leaves law enforcement decisions under a microscope without the full picture. Then we zoom out to a startling Venezuela account: drones, jamming, and alleged directed-energy effects that point to a staggering capability gap if Tier 1 U.S. units target cartels or militias. That segues to energy security—what it takes to rebuild Venezuela's oil output, how more supply can cool prices, and why Exxon and others need real legal protections before committing billions again.We also explore Iran's unrest and the moral, strategic, and logistical questions the U.S. must weigh. A freer Iran could reshape the region, but revolutions aren't tidy. The Arctic enters the chat with Greenland's rare earths and strategic basing—how to secure critical minerals and deter rivals without strong-arming local communities. Finally, we bring it home: ditching the failed low-fat dogma that flooded kids with refined carbs and ultra-processed foods, and scaling reading reforms that lift outcomes regardless of who gets credit. Better language, better incentives, better results.If this conversation challenged your assumptions or gave you useful context, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more curious listeners find us.Website: https://www.nodoubtaboutitpodcast.com/Twitter: @nodoubtpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoDoubtAboutItPod/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markronchettinm/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D