Podcasts about podsquad

In this life update, Chalene and Bret share what turned into a full blown catastrophe after a major flood destroyed their California beach house. They walk through the reality of dealing with insurance delays, massive financial decisions, and why coastal properties come with a level of risk most homeowners never see coming. Along the way, the conversation shifts into a surprisingly grounding discussion about money mindset, stress, and how quickly plans and priorities can change. It is honest, sometimes darkly funny, and full of hard earned perspective on loss, gratitude, and not letting stuff define your future. Chalene and Bret also the road trip chaos that took place on their way to visit Chalene's parents.   

This is just a quick heads up from Chalene Johnson to let you know today's episode is a little late but it's coming very soon. An unexpected situation pulled Chalene and Bret out of town, and rather than act like nothing happened, she wanted to pop in and let you know what's going on.

In this episode of the Agency Intelligence Podcast, host Jason Cass welcomes guests Daniel Garzella, CEO of Darkhorse Insurance Brokers and Jason Massey, Vice President of Finance and Accounting at Insurance Accountants to discuss the unique challenges of insurance accounting. Daniel shares his journey from running a retail brokerage to founding an insurance accounting company, highlighting the difficulties he faced in finding suitable accounting solutions tailored to the insurance industry. Jason Massey, with a background in corporate accounting at American Express, joins Daniel to provide insights into how their firm addresses the specific needs of insurance agencies, emphasizing the importance of understanding agency management systems and the complexities of insurance accounting. The conversation delves into the significance of accurate financial reporting and the common pitfalls that insurance agents encounter, such as not knowing their numbers and the challenges of scaling their businesses. Both guests stress the importance of leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance efficiency and accuracy in accounting processes. As they prepare for the upcoming Indy Tech event, they express excitement about connecting with independent agencies and sharing their expertise in solving the industry's accounting challenges. Key Topics: The Journey to Founding an Insurance Accounting Company Understanding the Unique Needs of Insurance Accounting The Importance of Technology in Accounting Common Mistakes Made by Insurance Agents Transitioning from Captive to Independent Insurance Leveraging AI in Insurance Accounting Key Financial Metrics for Agency Success Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead to IndieTech Reach out to: Daniel Garzella Jason Massey Jason Cass Visit Website: Insurance Accountants Darkhorse Insurance Brokers  Garzella Group Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

A celebrity family feud blows up online and suddenly everyone has a take. Chalene Johnson breaks down what really happened when Brooklyn Beckham publicly accused David Beckham and Victoria Beckham of control, manipulation, and choosing brand over family. But this episode is not about gossip or picking sides. It digs into why this story feels so familiar to so many families, especially when adult children set boundaries and parents are caught off guard. At its core, this is about power, identity, and what happens when private family pain becomes public. Check out The Facelift reveal video on YouTube this Sunday

Welcome to episode 285 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running. Injury updateWe have some updates on our various niggles and training disappointments. The good news is that we've both sought medical advice, rather than relying on Dr Google. So we're being good girls, and doing what the doctors have ordered. But is it paying off? Special guest Eilish for CoopahWe interrupt our usual gasbagging to bring you a celebrity guest in the form of the actual Eilish McColgan. Yes! Eilish McColgan! Eilish has recently joined Coopah's roster of talented coaches, helping to devise training plans to turn us all into our own version of Olympians. We wanted to get her on to quiz her on – what else? – injuries. She talks to us about how to manage injury, as well as how she's coped with her own injury time over the years. We come back after the break for more waffly bits, so don't switch off after Eilish has! By the way, lovely listeners – brace yourself because this episode is absolutely PACKED with ads. We need the ads to survive – that's how it works. However, if you leap on to our Patreon, you can listen without interruptions. £2 a month for ad-free listening and access to our exclusive Pod Squad forum, too. Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunning to find out more. LinksGet expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningBook your running holiday with Contours Holidays. Visit contours.co.uk or call 01629 821900, and use code 30FOR30 when booking your next adventure to get £30 off per person (offer expires 28th February, terms and conditions apply).If you're in Bath for the Bath Half in March, come along to our event, we'd love to see you!If you could be incredibly kind and fill out this quick survey we will be INDEBTED:http://bit.ly/thewomensrunningpodcast-surveySubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A viral Instagram account that looks almost too perfect sparks a much bigger conversation about how easily trust can be manipulated online. Chalene unpacks fake influencers, AI generated bodies, cloned voices, and deepfake doctors that appear completely real while quietly profiting from credibility. This is not a tech tutorial and it is not fear driven. It is an honest look at how fast AI is changing what we see online, who gets our attention, and who we believe is real. If you have ever shared a video only to find out later it was fake, this episode is going to hit close to home.  

This episode of the Agency Intelligence Podcast is a heartfelt tribute to Walt Gdowski, a significant figure in the insurance industry and the former CEO of Rough Notes.  Jason Cass and Roger Sitkins reflect on Walt's life, his contributions to the industry, and the personal memories they shared with him. They discuss his leadership style, his commitment to community service, and the high standards he set for the industry. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships in business and the lasting impact Walt had on those around him. Key Topics: Walt Gdowski was a pivotal figure in the insurance industry. He modernized Rough Notes, making it a trusted resource. Walt was known for his generosity and mentorship. He believed in the power of relationships in business. Walt's leadership style combined authority with influence. He launched the Rough Notes Community Service Award in 2000. Walt was an avid golfer and a licensed pilot. He had a significant impact on independent agents and brokers. Walt's legacy is a high standard for the industry. He was a gregarious and fun-loving individual who cared deeply about others. Reach out to: Roger Sitkins Jason Cass Visit Website: The Rough Notes Company Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

There are definitely things that the most highly successful insurance producers do in order to ensure victory when selling insurance. Some are easier than others, but almost all of them can be done by new(er) producers as well. If you want to build a $1,000,000 or more Book of Business, you need to begin implementing these things the most successful producers do. What are these things, you ask? Well, that's what host Charles Specht will teach you about in this podcast episode. Moreover, be sure to check out www.PermissionProducerSchool.com as the next cohort will begin on February 16, 2026. Go to www.PermissionProducerSchool.com to learn more and get registered for the upcoming cohort for producer school (virtual sales training). And, be sure to pre-register before all of the spaces are gone. Happy prospecting! Key Topics: How successful producers generate business through referrals and centers of influence instead of cold prospecting Why top producers only work through broker of record letters and never blind quote The importance of being micro-niched to know which carriers you need to be competitive Pre-qualifying accounts by calling underwriters before meetings to avoid wasted time and market blocks Three essential guardrails for the quoting process: securing markets, defining savings thresholds, and preventing quote sharing Using the Broker Of Record letter request in first meetings to measure relationship strength Permission Producer School training for building a million-dollar book through the permission sales framework Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Producer School Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

There are definitely things that the most highly successful insurance producers do in order to ensure victory when selling insurance. Some are easier than others, but almost all of them can be done by new(er) producers as well. If you want to build a $1,000,000 or more Book of Business, you need to begin implementing these things the most successful producers do. What are these things, you ask? Well, that's what host ⁠Charles Specht⁠ will teach you about in this podcast episode. Moreover, be sure to check out ⁠www.PermissionProducerSchool.com⁠ as the next cohort will begin on February 16, 2026. Go to ⁠www.PermissionProducerSchool.com⁠ to learn more and get registered for the upcoming cohort for producer school (virtual sales training). And, be sure to pre-register before all of the spaces are gone. Happy prospecting! Key Topics: How successful producers generate business through referrals and centers of influence instead of cold prospecting Why top producers only work through broker of record letters and never blind quote The importance of being micro-niched to know which carriers you need to be competitive Pre-qualifying accounts by calling underwriters before meetings to avoid wasted time and market blocks Three essential guardrails for the quoting process: securing markets, defining savings thresholds, and preventing quote sharing Using the Broker Of Record letter request in first meetings to measure relationship strength ⁠Permission Producer School⁠ training for building a million-dollar book through the permission sales framework Reach out to  ⁠Charles Specht⁠ Visit: ⁠Permission Producer School⁠ ⁠Permission Network⁠ Produced by ⁠PodSquad.fm⁠

Greavsey is joined by BBC Radio Lancashire's Gary Hunt and the returning Justin Connolly to look back on an encouraging performance at Anfield.  The Clarets came from behind to grab a 1-1 draw at Liverpool and that's given the Pod Squad hope that miracles might exist. Plus, we hear from Pod regular Tony Dawber from Anfield.

Charlie Javice was the startup world's new golden girl until a single email exposed everything. What began as a story about ambition, innovation, and a $175 million payday unraveled into one of the most unbelievable legal showdowns in tech. This isn't just about fraud it's about pretty privilege, hype, identity, and what happens when a Fortune 500 company gets lazy when the smart, pretty, believable, equity-driven Gen Z girl walks in the room. JP Morgan could have avoided a multi-million dollar error had they sent just one email.  

Welcome to episode 284 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.This episode is sponsored by Coopah. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a whole year's expert coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningAnd if you're in Bath for the Bath Half in March, come along to our event, we'd love to see you!January pahWe've got a bit of January blues here, I'm afraid. Both of us have had some niggles, which have erupted into fullscale hurty bits. Don't worry, we're both getting some help, but we've got very gloomy – what does this mean for our training? What should we do about our A goals? And how do we go about preparing for a Plan B that's just as exciting as our original Plan A.New podcastsAnother big fanfare for our two new podcasts this year – Start To Run is a repeat of last year's 10-episode series, which will be coming out on Mondays. On Wednesdays, we're launching a new 10-part series, which is going to be exclusively about running and training for a half marathon. And on Fridays, we're going to be releasing this baggy old podcast, that you know and love. Lots to listen to for the next couple of months!Lastly, I have a quick ask of you all, please! If you've got a spare minute, could you fill out a super quick survey for us – link in the shownotes – it'll help us get better, less annoying, and give you all the stuff you like the best! Thank you so much!LinksGet expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningIf you're in Bath for the Bath Half in March, come along to our event, we'd love to see you!If you could be incredibly kind and fill out this quick survey we will be INDEBTED:http://bit.ly/thewomensrunningpodcast-surveyThese are the mittens from Compressport that have helped with my cold handsOther recommendations included:Ronhill Winter MittINOV8 Thermal MittAnd this is the episode of Desert Island Discs I listened toSubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Spitting Nonsense—where two self-proclaimed amateurs, Jasmine and Zach, chat about all things nerdy (and plenty that's not). None of this is fact, but it's definitely our brand of nonsense! We're still recording regularly—no promises on hitting exact days anymore—but you can always count on us for plenty of off-the-wall commentary. And now, you can leave comments on Spotify! Tell us what's on your mind; we see every comment and might even respond on the show. Thanks for listening, and enjoy the nonsense!

Tech updates, new systems, and all those "this is supposed to make your life easier" moments start to feel like too much and lead into a much bigger conversation. From outsourcing tech overwhelm to watching parents wrestle with apps and platforms that feel anything but intuitive, this discussion connects everyday frustration to deeper shifts around AI, social media, and trust. Chalene breaks down why long-form content feels calmer, why endless scrolling leaves the brain fried, and why younger generations are already pushing back by unplugging. It's not anti-technology or fear-driven, but it is a grounded reality check on why more innovation doesn't automatically equal more peace.  

What starts as cozy weather, sweaters, and travel updates quickly turns into one of those classic Chalene conversations that goes everywhere and somehow still makes perfect sense. From updating makeup techniques for midlife faces to why separate bathrooms might be the secret to a happier marriage, this episode blends humor, honesty, and very real relationship truths. Chalene also shares an unfiltered update on sober curiosity, Dry January reflections, and how changing her relationship with alcohol quietly changed everything. Along the way there are beauty procedures, barefoot shoes, sleep rituals, and a vacation story that absolutely spirals in the most entertaining way possible.  

Welcome to episode 283 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.Get expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningWe're back!We're back after our Christmas break and SHOCK HORROR we've got a lot of running chat to get through before we even mention the new series of Traitors, so hang on to your hats. We talk about festive running, the trouble with winter run kit and various health-related issues. Big shout out to the NHS app btw – do please make use of it if you don't already.New podcasts!And a big fanfare for our two new podcasts this year – Start To Run is a repeat of last year's 10-episode series, which will be coming out on Mondays (the first episode came out this week). On Wednesdays, we're launching a new 10-part series, which is going to be exclusively about running and training for a half marathon. And on Fridays, we're going to be releasing this baggy old podcast, that you know and love. Lots to listen to for the next couple of months!Lastly, I have a quick ask of you all, please! If you've got a spare minute, could you fill out a super quick survey for us – it'll help us get better, less annoying, and give you all the stuff you like the best! Thank you so much!Lovely extra bitsGet expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunning If you could be incredibly kind and fill out this quick survey we will be INDEBTED: http://bit.ly/thewomensrunningpodcast-surveySubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Get tickets to our live event ahead of the Bath Half 2026!Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daz is in the in the hotseat and joined by regular Pod Squad member Greavsey and former When The Ball Moves editor Martin Barnes to look at the Clarets 2-2 draw at home to Manchester United. The trio also discuss the FA Cup visit of Millwall, transfer window hopes and ALK's multi-club model...

What starts as one of Chalene's life updates quickly turns into one of those conversations that just keeps going and gets way deeper than expected. The episode wanders through identity, aging, beauty, and purpose, and calls out the idea that wanting to feel good in your body is somehow shallow. It gets into neuroaesthetics in a very real, easy to understand way and why things like makeup, grooming, movement, and even your surroundings can seriously affect mood, stress, and mental clarity. Along the way, there are post holiday realizations, thoughts on generational differences around trauma and communication, aging and mobility, long term care realities, and the pressure so many women feel to always be doing more to prove they matter. It's casual, honest, occasionally funny, and feels like one of those conversations that sticks with you after it's over.  

If goal setting already feels exhausting and it's barely 2026, this episode is for you. Chalene Johnson shares a calmer, pressure free way to think about goals that has nothing to do with New Year's resolutions or blowing up your entire life. Instead of focusing on what you think you should accomplish, this episode helps you get clear on how you actually want your life to feel in this season. Using a simple 90 day system built around alignment and small daily actions, this approach is realistic, grounding, and way more sustainable. It's designed for anyone who wants real progress in 2026 without burning themselves out by February.

We're starting 2026 with a quick hello and a warm welcome to our YouTube listeners. This brief episode explains a small but intentional shift in how we're sharing the show. We're re-routing back to audio-only to stay aligned with what feels best for us. If you're joining us from YouTube, thank you. If you've always been here in audio, thank you. We love you, Pod Squad. More to come. Follow We Can Do Hard Things on: Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/wecandohardthings TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/@wecandohardthingsshow

In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Jeff and Eboné Granger, Managing Partners at Granger Financial, the agency featured on the January 2026 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine.  Key Topics: The significance of being featured on the front cover of Rough Notes Magazine Building the agency from the ground up during COVID and scaling intentionally over time Expanding beyond insurance into multiple financial service verticals to better serve clients Creating a culture centered on mission, legacy, and long-term impact Using community service as a core business driver, not a side initiative Developing and retaining talent through an ownership mindset, culture, and values Reach out to: Jeff Granger Eboné Granger Jason Cass Visit Website: Granger Financial Rough Notes Magazine Produced by PodSquad.fm

Welcome to episode 282 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.In this episode, we were lucky enough to speak to the glorious Lisa Jackson - writer, author, runner, ambassador – a woman who is proud to have come last in 25 marathons (of which she has now run over a hundred). Lisa is an extraordinary woman who has suffered some horrific losses over the past few years, but has emerged phoenix-like, with a book and an unmatched energy: if you're out there listening to this and not sure if you're a runner, then Lisa is the woman you need to listen to.Lisa's book Your Pace or Mine is the best book for new and slower runners. And her latest book, Still Running After All These Tears, is available to preorder and out on the 8th January in all good book shops.Now, if you aren't a patron yet do join us on Patreon for just £2 a month, through which you can join our forum and listen to podcasts ad-free. You also get to come along to our Live Pods! Just head to patreon.com/womensrunning and join us for just £2 a month.OTHER THINGS Get expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningSubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Get tickets to our live event ahead of the Bath Half 2026!Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 3 of Chalene Johnson's Origin Story she picks up in college and follows the unexpected, very unplanned love story between Chalene and Bret, from a chance meeting at a Michigan State club to building a marriage, a family, and a business from nothing. It is funny, honest, and deeply personal, pulling back the curtain on early ambition, financial stress, identity shifts, and the growing pains that come with building a life together before you know what you're doing. This episode is less about success and more about the messy middle that most people never talk about. If you have ever been in a long term relationship, built something with a partner, or wondered how couples actually survive the hard seasons, this one will hit close to home.

What if every phone call your agency receives could tell you exactly how customers feel and how your team is performing? Jason Cass sits down with Winston Smith, CEO of Bridge Insure and Magellan Insure, to unpack how call intelligence is reshaping agency operations. The discussion explores why phone systems are more than dial tone, how real insights surface from everyday conversations, and why focusing on customer happiness and employee productivity creates a clearer picture of agency performance. Key Topics: The evolution of Bridge and the launch of Magellan Why phone systems are an untapped intelligence source Using call transcription to surface meaningful insights Measuring customer satisfaction through real conversations Evaluating employee performance with service standards Real time alerts for negative customer experiences Connecting phone data to revenue and premium impact Contrarian perspectives on AI in insurance agencies Reach out to: Winston Smith Jason Cass Visit Website: Bridge Insure Magellan Insure Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

In Part 2 of Chalene Johnson's origin story, things get heavier, messier, and way more revealing. This episode dives into the moment money stopped being abstract and became emotional, personal, and tied to identity at a very young age. From carrying financial responsibility as a kid, to learning how praise, hustle, and ego quietly fused together, this episode explains how independence can become both a superpower and a trap. What starts as resourcefulness turns into pressure, risk, betrayal, and a series of decisions that shaped how Chalene viewed work, worth, and safety long before fame or fitness. And just when everything finally seems to be clicking into place, the story cuts off right as Bret enters the picture and the real complications begin. This is Part 2 of Chalene's origin story. Make sure you're subscribed and watch for Part 3, because the cliffhanger is very real.  

Welcome to episode 281 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.Kathrine SwitzerThis is a very special Christmas Day episode, that we've been secretly waiting to launch on you for weeks now. In this, we talk to the legendary Kathrine Switzer, famously the first woman to run the Boston Marathon as an officially registered competitor in 1967. She tells us the story of that day, including how she coped when she was nearly pulled off the route by the race manager, and the highs and lows of a historic achievement that has paved the way for so many of us. We absolutely love Kathrine, and hope you enjoy this incredibly special podcast.Join us!Now, if you aren't a patron yet do join us on Patreon for just £2 a month, through which you can join our forum and listen to podcasts ad-free. You also get to come along to our Live Pods! Just head to patreon.com/womensrunning and join us for just £2 a month.Lovely extra bitsGet expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunningFind out more about 261 Fearless, the organisation set up by KathrineAnd take on board her brilliant marathon training tipsSubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Get tickets to our live event ahead of the Bath Half 2026!Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the Pod Squad as they host the Pod Squad.

Chalene Johnson finally tells her origin story all in one place, starting at the very beginning in Part 1 of this series. From growing up broke in Michigan to dirt roads, sketchy neighbors, big risks, and parents who were way too young and figuring it out as they went, this episode is funny, honest, and a little chaotic. It is filled with moments that suddenly make a lot of things click without tying it up in a neat bow. This story is just getting started, so be sure to watch for Part 2, where things take a very unexpected turn.

Ep. 168 The Holiday Merriment Episode It's the holidays! We've all wrapped up our festive programming, but may still be wrapping gifts. This week the Pod Squad shares their holiday plans and you guessed it, Danielle hosts a holiday trivia game. Happy holidays to you and yours from the No Business Like team!   Follow us on social media and let us know your thoughts and questions - https://linktr.ee/nobusinesslikepod Our theme song is composed by Vic Davi.

Romanticizing aging might be the most powerful longevity tool you have and it costs absolutely nothing. In this episode, Chalene Johnson breaks down the science behind why your attitude about aging can literally add years to your life and explains how society quietly trains women to fear getting older. Drawing from research, real life examples, and her own mindset shift, Chalene reframes aging as a season of freedom, confidence, and increased happiness. This conversation is a wake up call for women who feel invisible, worn down, or stuck believing their best years are behind them. Watch this episode on YouTube this Sunday!! https://www.youtube.com/@chalenejohnson/videos  

Ep. 82: The TA Pod Squad- Teaching Artistry 2.0 by Teaching Artistry with Courtney J. Boddie

Welcome to episode 280 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.Injuries and icksThis is the final episode we're recording in 2025, which is kind of exciting because we're very ready to put our feet up. After controversies involving red cabbage, we eventually get on to our running, you'll be relieved to hear. We talk about impact injuries, general icks, and our high and low points in 2025. Have a very lovely Christmas if you celebrate it, enjoy your time off if you get it, and we wish you all a relaxed and peaceful new year. We have treats for you over the next couple of weeks with exclusive interviews with Kathrine Switzer and Lisa Jackson, so listen out for them on Christmas Day and New Year's Day respectively.Join us!Now, if you aren't a patron yet do join us on Patreon for just £2 a month, through which you can join Discord, our forum just for you. You also get to come along to our Live Pods! Just head to patreon.com/womensrunning and join us for just £2 a month.Lovely linksGet expert coaching with the Coopah app. Use the code WOMENSRUNNING for two weeks free, plus 20% off a year's coaching. Just head to coopah.com/womensrunning Subscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Get tickets to our live event ahead of the Bath Half 2026!Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode feels like taking a long, quiet walk while the Christmas lights are glowing and your brain finally gets to exhale. Chalene Johnson starts with why Southern California just does the holidays better and slowly eases into a real, honest conversation about December, aging, marriage, empty nesting, money, convenience, and generosity. There are funny tangents, opinionated takes, and moments that land deeper than expected. It is cozy, reflective, slightly unhinged in the best way, and the kind of episode that makes you feel less alone and more grounded.

I know you probably work only on signed BOR ... right? Well, sometimes you might be tempted to offer quotes to a prospect (aka: Non-Client; someone who doesn't trust you yet) who won't sign the BOR over to you. Should you still work on that account and offer a quote, or should you push the "pause button" and try again next year? Well, it all depends on whether or not you can get the prospect to give you three things first.  In this episode, host Charles Specht shares what three things you should do in order to increase your Quote-to-Bind rate by other 25% or more. Give a listen, subscribe, and let Charles explain. And, visit our newly updated website at: https://permissiongroup.com Key Topics: Why second place in insurance sales pays zero commission The three critical things you must secure before offering any quote How to demand exclusive access to the carriers you need to compete Getting objective commitments on what you must accomplish to win the business Why prospects must agree not to share your numbers with other agents How agents lose 20-30% of business when prospects share quotes behind their backs Why it's your fault, not the insured's, when you get used in quoting The reminder system that reinforces commitments throughout the sales process Why insurance buyers prefer one trusted agent but don't know how to choose How agency leaders can boost profits by requiring BOR letters over blind quotes Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

I know you probably work only on signed BOR ... right? Well, sometimes you might be tempted to offer quotes to a prospect (aka: Non-Client; someone who doesn't trust you yet) who won't sign the BOR over to you. Should you still work on that account and offer a quote, or should you push the "pause button" and try again next year? Well, it all depends on whether or not you can get the prospect to give you three things first.  In this episode, host Charles Specht shares what three things you should do in order to increase your Quote-to-Bind rate by other 25% or more. Give a listen, subscribe, and let Charles explain. And, visit our newly updated website at: https://permissiongroup.com Key Topics: Why second place in insurance sales pays zero commission The three critical things you must secure before offering any quote How to demand exclusive access to the carriers you need to compete Getting objective commitments on what you must accomplish to win the business Why prospects must agree not to share your numbers with other agents How agents lose 20-30% of business when prospects share quotes behind their backs Why it's your fault, not the insured's, when you get used in quoting The reminder system that reinforces commitments throughout the sales process Why insurance buyers prefer one trusted agent but don't know how to choose How agency leaders can boost profits by requiring BOR letters over blind quotes Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

This special Friday episode is a fun two for one. Chalene breaks down her top 10 favorite purchases of 2025 that actually made everyday life easier, comfier, and more enjoyable, from sleep upgrades and style shortcuts to wellness tools that truly earned a permanent spot in her routine. Then the conversation shifts into her most binge worthy documentary and docuseries picks, including jaw dropping true crime, messy family dynasties, cult like power stories, and investigations that stick with you long after you finish watching. She shares why certain stories hit harder, what most people overlook, and which shows are worth sitting down for versus letting play in the background. If you love honest recommendations, real talk, and ideas you can use right away, this episode is for you.

Welcome to episode 279 of the Women's Running podcast. I'm your host Esther Newman and she's your other host Holly Taylor. On this podcast we talk about health, politics, stuff on TV and what we ate last night. Occasionally, we talk about running.Running & the juggleWe've got a bit more Christmas overwhelm to begin with. But we cheer up and start talking about running on Christmas day, which Holly is particularly joyful about. Even better than that, we have an update on Hol's 10K PB attempt – a good one – and then we're into our training and expectations for the Bath Half and the London Marathon, and doing all that while juggling all this Christmas nonsense. And we have news for January! Lots of exciting things are happening on this very podcast, but we need you to help us shape it – listen in right to the end and get back to us with your thoughts on Patreon, Discord or over email on wrpodcast@anthem.co.ukJoin us!If you aren't a patron yet do join us on Patreon for just £2 a month, through which you can join Discord, our forum just for you. You also get to come along to our Live Pods! And we have our Christmas special all booked in for December 15th – do come along to our very silly quiz. Just head to patreon.com/womensrunning and join us for just £2 a month.OTHER THINGSSubscribe to Women's Running – and you can save 50%Get tickets to our live event ahead of the Bath Half 2026!Setting up your own podcast? Try Zencastr – we've been using it for ages and LOVE ITDo join us on Patreon so you can come and chat in our new Pod Squad community on Discord! Go to patreon.co.uk/womensrunningEmail us at wrpodcast@anthem.co.uk with any questions or running stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Valley Girls chat with Laura Pensiero of Gigi in Rhinebeck about opening a restaurant in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, the overwhelming scientific evidence in favor of the Mediterranean Diet for good health, hosting for the holidays without demolishing your good eating habits, cooking well on a budget while reducing food waste, and the burgeoning Food is Medicine movement. Hungry for more from Laura? Check out her latest edition of her “Laura's Corner Table” column in Sanctuary and sign up for the Gigi Hudson Valley monthly newsletter for updates and recipes!Thanks to our Season 4 sponsor, Bryant Home Improvement! With over 20 years of experience in luxury home building, Bryant Home Improvement is dedicated to ensuring quality and efficiency in every project and bringing value to your home - right here in the Hudson Valley. To hear all about what Bryant Home Improvement can do for your Hudson Valley home, check out episode 46 for the Valley Girls' chat with owner Matt Bryant! Thanks for listening! To help support the Valley Girls, please follow our podcast from our show page, leave a rating and review, and please spread the word and share our podcast with others. We really appreciate your support!To stay up to date and for more content you can find us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠valleygirlspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/ValleyGirlsPodNY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube.com/@ValleyGirlsPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and also check out the Newsletter and Pod Squad tab on our website to sign up for our e-mail newsletter and join ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠so you never miss a thing! All links can also be found in our Instagram bio.Episode music by Robert Burke Warren entitled Painting a Vast Blue Sky can be found at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠robertburkewarren.bandcamp.com/track/painting-a-vast-blue-sky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

If December feels like too much and everyone seems to expect you to hold it all together, this episode is the permission slip women have been waiting for. Chalene breaks down the invisible load so many women carry during the holidays, from money stress and body image to resentment in relationships and pressure to make everything perfect. She shares real messages from listeners, stories from her own circle, and why social media comparisons and unrealistic expectations make December feel extra heavy. Then she walks you through a powerful pen and paper exercise to separate what you can control from what you can let go of, and shares surprising new research on one simple habit that can lift anxiety and depression fast. If you have ever felt secretly tapped out, overwhelmed, or quietly angry at everyone around you this month, this conversation will help you release some of that weight and breathe again.  

Pressure on agency call volume has never been higher, and the gap between what teams can handle and what clients expect is widening fast. In this Executive Sessions conversation, Jason Cass sits down with Francisco Lopes, Founder and CEO of Sonant AI, to unpack how AI voice technology is transforming call handling, reducing repetitive tasks, and freeing teams to focus on higher-value work. Their discussion breaks down real adoption challenges, workflow design, routing logic, and the future impact of AI on agency operations and client experience. Key Topics: AI phone agents purpose-built for insurance operations Improving call latency, clarity, and conversational flow Differences in inbound versus outbound AI call performance Workflow design that reduces repetitive staff tasks Routing logic tied to AMS data and team roles Increasing task capacity through automated call handling Adoption hurdles and the tension between personal touch and AI Future impact of agentic systems on agency productivity How AI reshapes efficiency, staffing, and client communication Reach out to: Francisco Lopes Jason Cass Visit Website: Sonant AI Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

Hormones start shifting way earlier than anyone tells us, and for most women over 35 that sneaky change can make you feel like you are aging in fast-forward. This episode breaks down the hormone symptoms most doctors overlook and explains what is actually happening with estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone when you suddenly have brain fog, mood swings, stubborn weight gain, low libido, or sleep that goes off a cliff. Chalene also clears up the outdated fears around hormone therapy and shares the updated science every woman needs, plus simple natural hormone support options if HRT is not your thing. And if you have ever felt dismissed or confused by conflicting advice, you will hear exactly how to find a clinician who actually understands women's hormone health so you can age powerfully instead of feeling unlike yourself. Watch this episode on YouTube this Sunday!!  

Derrick and Scott are here to break down Part II of the Final aka The Season 41 Finale, go over our new winners, what it means for everyone's legacy, who we think we'll see back on S42 and beyond, what we thought of the final and MUCH MORE!This is a Free Preview of a much longer Episode Breakdown Podcast that is exclsuive to Maniac Level Patrons and above at www.ChallengeManiacs.com - You can also watch this and ALL of our podcasts in Video over there as well! WATCH this full episode Here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/video-season-41-144931781LISTEN to this full episode Here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/audio-season-41-144931940www.ChallengeMania.Live for Tix!www.ChallengeMania.Shop for Swagwww.ChallengeManiacs.com to Join the Pod Squad!

Scary skinny is back, and the ultra skinny look is hitting women and girls harder than ever. This episode takes a real look at why rapid, dramatic weight loss is being celebrated again, how celebrity culture and GLP1 drugs are fueling it, and what is really happening behind the filters. From hair loss and hormone crashes to influencer hypocrisy and hidden health fallout, this is an honest conversation about the new wellness lie. Listeners will walk away with clarity, context, and practical ways to protect themselves and their daughters from the pressure to keep getting smaller.  

Who is your Inner Child, and what are they (still) saying? It's amazing how strongly our little selves show up in our adult lives.   Buckle Up – in this hilarious, profound conversation, Glennon, Abby, and Amanda invite their inner children to come forward and share their delights, blessings, and curses with the Pod Squad.  Together, we spiral around:  - Why some of us become the family “feeler” and others the “fixer,” and how we can all become more whole;  - How to honor the part of you who planned, dreamed, or disassociated to survive, without letting that little kid run your whole adult life; and  - How Abby is using music, dancing, and play as an antidote to her anxiety. 

Imagine having your own world-class registered dietitian designing every meal to fit your lifestyle, help you lose fat, and maintain lean muscle without spending a cent. In this episode, Chalene explains how to use AI as your personal nutrition coach to create a fully customized calorie deficit plan that actually works. She walks you step by step through how to use ChatGPT to calculate your macros, design meals you will love, and fine tune your plan when progress slows. If you have ever thought it would be easy to lose weight if someone just told you exactly what to eat, this episode will show you how to make that happen. Watch this episode on YouTube this Sunday!!  https://www.youtube.com/@chalenejohnson/videos  

So many women have messaged Chalene privately about her facelift, and this episode dives into exactly why she decided to be open about it — and what's surprised her most about people's reactions. From there, she takes a sharp turn into a true crime documentary that's been haunting her ever since she watched it: the story of actress Eva LaRue and her long-time stalker. Chalene breaks down the case like only she can, with a mix of compassion, disbelief, and questions no one else seems to be asking. It's part personal update, part pop culture analysis, and 100% unfiltered Chalene.  

Chalene and Bret get real about marriage, intimacy, and why so many couples lose their spark after years together. They break down what's actually behind low libido after 40, hormones, stress, resentment, body image, sleep, and all the real-life stuff no one talks about. It's funny, honest, and packed with takeaways for couples who want to reconnect without the shame or awkwardness. There's even a quick role-play on how to bring up hormones and testing, plus an update on Chalene's "age-affirming" surgery and where to watch the full journey.

At last, the brilliant force of nature, Cynthia Erivo, joins us for a deeply personal, mind-blowing, and heart-swelling conversation about dignity and belonging. We discuss:  - How to survive betrayal and learn to fully trust again;  - How to build a circle of people who will always get on the broom with you;  - How Cynthia chooses and prepares for roles like Elphaba—and why she doesn't believe in method acting; and - How to find light, joy, and creativity in our darkest moments.  Hold onto your witch hats, Pod Squad. This conversation is a ride—and an offering. Enjoy.  About Cynthia:  Cynthia Erivo is a Grammy Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress, singer and producer. She burst onto West End and Broadway stages in THE COLOR PURPLE and has since taken the world by storm. Erivo most recently starred as Elphaba opposite Ariana Grande's Glinda in Part 1 of the record-breaking film adaptation of the hit musical WICKED. WICKED: For Good is being released THIS WEEK on November 21st. And Erivo's brand new book SIMPLY MORE is available today.   Follow We Can Do Hard Things on: Youtube — @wecandohardthingsshow   Instagram — @wecandohardthings TikTok — @wecandohardthingshow

Facelift prep, hormone therapy choices, and the real side effects no one wants to say out loud. Chalene takes you behind the scenes on stopping estrogen before surgery, switching from injections to testosterone cream, and testing an estrogen patch, plus how progesterone keeps her sleep on track. She also flags a Neutrogena makeup wipe recall and why telehealth shortcuts around GLP-1s can backfire. Consider this a candid pre-op diary with zero politics and full transparency, plus details on the documentary she is filming of the entire recovery. If you are curious about perimenopause symptoms, HRT delivery methods, and GLP-1 risk conversations, this one will save you time and stress.

A wild and eye-opening look into the hidden online worlds shaping a generation of young men, and why every parent needs to hear this. Chalene pulls back the curtain on incel forums, red pill and black pill culture, and how meme language like Pepe and Wojak became their secret code. You'll learn how algorithms quietly pull teens into darker corners of the internet and why loneliness, not politics, is usually at the heart of it. This isn't about blame. It's about understanding the digital reality our boys are growing up in and how to keep them grounded in real life connection.