Category: Podcast

Eric Zimmer BOV
Eric Zimmer (BOV) – The One you Feed

Eric Zimmer (BOV) – The One you Feed

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:07:55 — 93.3MB)

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Eric Zimmer (BOV) is an inspiration to me.  Listening to his podcast is like free therapy that I didn’t even know I needed…so for sure “best of” material.  This conversation goes to the darker places of life, but manages to walk back up the stairs into more light-hearted chat as well.  You might need some tissues, but  you will be laughing along the way.

Eric has built companies for 15 years, and work in technology longer.  He led major software programs for Fortune 20 companies and he started his own Solar Energy company.   The most cool project Eric is rocking now is The One You Feed podcast, named “Best of iTunes” in 2014.
Eric Zimmer (BOV) Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Eric pointed out that increasing the frequency of moving from Vroom to Veer…like daily is a worthy goal.
In Eric Zimmer’s experience, that longer the Vroom Vroom period, the more dramatic the VEER can become.
The Tim Ferriss podcast Episode #2 included a chat about a martial artist who likes to win in “transition” between moves and holds.

Eric Zimmer (BOV) Addiction to getting Sober

24 years old
homeless, living in a van
sleeping on a couch in the back of the van that he picked up out of a dumpster
This went on for about 7 years of drinking and drugging.
Eric was too numb and was seeking highs from drugs and drinking.
Downward spiral of getting high, and feeling bad…trying to get sober.
He was dying and headed for jail.
One day he was arrested, lost his job, and his van and he didn’t have anywhere else to go.
So he checked in to re-hab…
The treatment center suggested that he should do the 28-day treatment program…1st he said no…
Later he changed his mind because he had a moment of clarity and knew he would die if he went back out into the world.
The problem was his strategy of dealing with life.

Eric Zimmer (BOV) Depression and Feeling bad

Eric was thinkin “I don’t like the way I feel, I want to feel different” and using drugs to feel different.
Realizing that having a mood or feeling bad is ok and it’s not an emergency.
When in reactive, addicted mode, there is a feeling of panic when one feels bad..one feels compelled to take some action, be that a cigarette, sex, tv, food, drugs, beer what have you.
Eric learned that emotions are not emergencies.
If we are not so afraid of emotions we can just let them be.
From Pema Chodron’s book “getting unstuck” , “Shenpa” is like triggered into fight or flight mode.
Some awareness will help you steer back to a better state.

Did that detox Stick?

Yes, but after a relapse.  He went and got high…then he went back to 28-day treatment.
One day at a time, is the commitment in recovery.
Book called “The tools”
A concept of “exoneration”  The idea that the day will come where I have done what I needed to do and life will be easy moving forward.  Sort of wishing for a life without sadness or problems, but that will never be.
He will have problems but we don’t need to struggle so much.
It’s our resistance to problems that cause most of the pain and struggle.

All the Rage

Episode of One you feed talking with Michael Galinsky about the work of Dr. John Sarno

Job to layoff

He got a job at compuserve in customer service
He got promoted into corporate training.
AOL bought compuserve and Eric got laid off.
Invested severance pay into some IT training and he got into internet start ups.
This pattern of employment ending abruptly continued to the point where Eric started to welcome the changes.

What happened in the Dark Hallway between Door?

You act your way into right action
Emotions can’t be directly controlled.
Thoughts and behavior can be directly controlled, emotions can only be influenced not directly controlled.
He learned to keep going and have faith.

Failing back into Addiction

Eric took a trip on Hedonistic Treadmill and started drifting away from recovery after his 1st wife left him.
He convinced himself that he could handle drinking.
Over several years, he became a functional alcoholic.
Then finally he went back to AA and stay sober for 8 years.

Eric Zimmer (BOV) Links

The one you feed podcast


Subscribes, Ratings, Reviews = LOVE! 😀

376 Regan Caruthers
Regan Caruthers – From Chaos to Clarity–A Spiritual Awakening (BOV)

Regan Caruthers – From Chaos to Clarity–A Spiritual Awakening (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:14 — 87.1MB)

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Regan Caruthers: Regan’s path was informed by her early schooling where she meditated daily, practiced Tai Chi, and learned about the power of Divine Love and conscious thought. But she would reject these teachings as she sought to fit in and find social acceptance. Quickly rising through the ranks, Regan had a successful career as a Silicon Valley corporate executive in the educational software industry. But corporate ascension, an extra-marital affair, and a tumultuous first marriage were mere reflections of her brokenness and need for deep healing. Once she consciously committed to practicing what she had learned so young, her life began to change.

Regan recently moved back to Missouri from Santa Cruz, CA. She’s the founder of Aset Yoga Center and dedicates her life to teaching and helping her clients achieve a more intimate and disciplined inner life. Her compassionate approach creates safe spaces for transformation and wellness, through one-on-one coaching, yoga sessions, and her Ready to Awaken courses. She conducts yoga classes for her community as an act of service at no charge

Above all, Regan cherishes her roles as a devoted wife to Jim and a loving mother to her sons, Connor and Ian.

Regan Caruthers Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Regan and Jeffrey Share Experiences

In the meeting, Regan and Jeffrey discussed their past experiences and shared stories. Regan, a yoga teacher, talked about her excitement for the spring weather and her property coming alive. She also mentioned her book, Tragic Magic, and her interest in getting the word out about it. Jeffrey, on the other hand, shared his experience of being on a school team in high school and his involvement in a computer-aided graphics competition. They also discussed their respective locations, with Regan living in a beautiful area and Jeffrey mentioning the weather in Vegas. The conversation ended with Jeffrey expressing his excitement for the upcoming conversation about Regan’s life and business.

Service, Discipline, and Self-Care

Regan and Jeffery discuss the importance of service, discipline, and self-care in their lives. Regan teaches yoga to seniors as an act of service, while Jeffery emphasizes the value of effort in maintaining health. They both agree on the significance of discipline in personal growth, with Regan stressing its importance over mere motivation. The conversation concludes with a discussion on overcoming depression through physical activities and practicing gratitude, even in difficult times.

Nature’s Impact on Well-Being and Friendship

Jeffery and Regan discussed their morning meditation experiences and the impact of nature on their well-being. They shared their fondness for the desert’s unique scents and bird songs, as well as the grounding effect of walking barefoot in their respective natural environments. Regan expressed her love for her childhood, despite its challenges, and highlighted the positive influence of her grade school, which taught meditation and other life skills from a young age. They also reminisced about their long-standing friendships and the importance of maintaining connections from their past.

Regan’s Experiences With Dark Energy

Regan shared her personal experiences of encountering dark energy and demonic entities from a young age. She described how she commanded them to stop and how this led to a change in her life and spiritual path. Regan also discussed her corporate career and how her awakening affected her work and personal life. She emphasized the importance of radiating love towards the demonic visitors to stop their visits. Regan also criticized popular spiritual teachers for not addressing the dark side and their own shadows.

Regan’s Personal Journey and Spiritual Awakening

In the meeting, Regan shared their personal journey, discussing their challenging home life and how it influenced their decisions. They mentioned their academic achievements and how they sought to escape their home environment. Regan also discussed their spiritual awakening in their mid-40s, which led to a more disciplined and stable life. They emphasized the importance of divine guidance and acting upon it. The conversation also touched on Regan’s experiences in college and their decision to repeat the 9th grade, which was a turning point in their adolescent life.

Regan’s Inner Voice Guidance Experience

Regan shared her experience of receiving guidance from her inner voice. She described the voice as matter-of-fact, emotionally neutral, and very specific in its instructions. In December 2021, she was told to urgently move home, which led her to relocate from California to Missouri. Despite initial skepticism from her community, she followed the guidance and found a home with a geothermal well, which she believed was a sign from her guides.

Regan’s Miraculous Medical Journey

Regan shared a personal story about a life-threatening medical condition she was born with, which was only discovered after a series of urgent medical appointments. She underwent open heart surgery at a renowned medical facility, Barnes Hospital, and was fortunate to have a successful recovery. The surgeon, Ralph Damiano, was amazed by the clinical outcome and attributed it to a miracle. Regan also shared a subsequent miracle where the scar on her chest formed the shape of a crucifix, which was confirmed by her surgeon.

Regan’s Spiritual Awakening and Gnostic Gospels

Regan shares her experience of facing death without fear, attributing her calmness to her spiritual beliefs and knowledge of her eternal, divine nature. She discusses her interest in the Gnostic Gospels, which were hidden texts discovered in Egypt in 1945, and how they provide alternative perspectives on early Christianity. Regan also recounts a transformative moment when, after an awakening experience, she felt overwhelming love and was able to express it to her previously abusive stepfather, leading to a significant change in his behavior.

Regan’s Yoga and Meditation Practices

Regan discussed her work at the center, which includes teaching yoga to her community, conducting a workshop on fundamental yoga poses, and sharing breathwork practices. She also mentioned her involvement in Heartmath retreats, plant medicine ceremonies, and private coaching sessions. Regan described her home as a beautiful, 3,000 square foot space where she practices meditation and yoga. She also mentioned a unique outdoor space at the back of her property, which she uses for ceremonies and safe fires.

California Living Challenges and Regan’s Book

Regan and Jeffery discuss the challenges of living in California, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. They talk about the increasing problems with homelessness, crime, and drug use in these areas. Regan mentions her upcoming visit to California and how she misses certain aspects of it, but not others. They also briefly discuss Regan’s book “Tragic Magic” and how people can connect with her through her website, social media, and discovery calls for inner life coaching.

Connections

Website

403 Wendy Haller
Wendy Haller – Every Woman’s Life has a Story worth Feeling

Wendy Haller – Every Woman’s Life has a Story worth Feeling

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:29 — 81.8MB)

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Wendy Haller spent nearly two decades as a special education preschool teacher before disability forced her to leave the classroom. She turned that unexpected life change into an opportunity to pursue her lifelong dream of writing. Today, she writes emotionally resonant women’s fiction about love, resilience, family, and finding hope through life’s challenges.

Wendy Haller Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

  • Opening: Host Jeff Smith starts recording and welcomes guest Wendy Haller to the Vroom Vroom Veer podcast. Jeff asks what Wendy is most excited about in her author work.
  • New book and feelings about publishing: Wendy says she has three novels published; the most recent release is the second book in her Flanagan Girls trilogy, titled Regret No More. She describes the emotional roller coaster of finishing and publishing the book, and that finishing brought relief because she can’t keep editing it. She also emphasizes the value of her beta readers and the support team that helped her.
  • Early life and influences: Wendy grew up in Rhode Island (“the Ocean State”), surrounded by water—ocean, bays, lakes, ponds and rivers—and says water feeds her soul. Her childhood home had a backyard pool. Jeff and Wendy compare seaside-town upbringings.
  • School years and personality: Wendy attended a parochial (born-again Christian) school from fifth through ninth grade, then public school in tenth grade, which she calls a culture shock. She describes being shy growing up but loving literature and writing; in English classes she was more likely to speak up. She identifies as an empath who would sometimes speak up for silent peers.
  • College and early career in media: Wendy earned a journalism degree from the University of Rhode Island, worked on the school newspaper, and had an internship at a local news station in the sports department. She learned scriptwriting, editing highlights and on-air graphics, then moved into news and remote production. She worked at ESPN in graphics and on-site production, covering events such as ski and snowboard tours and professional bowling.
  • Leaving media for family: After her son was born, Wendy realized she was missing milestones because she traveled for work. A babysitter called about the child’s first roll-over; Wendy says that experience led her to stop traveling for work and change careers so she could be present with her family.
  • Transition into education: Wendy moved into early childhood special education. She earned a master’s in early childhood special education, worked as a paraprofessional, then as a specialized preschool special education teacher. She loved teaching, felt deeply connected to her students, and described teaching as becoming an identity. She speaks about advocating for families and the ongoing need for parents to request supports (IEPs, services) for students with disabilities.
  • Health issues and forced career change: Wendy describes living with psoriatic arthritis and other autoimmune conditions that reduced mobility and caused chronic pain, and the need for significant medication. In early fall 2022 her doctors put her on intermittent FMLA; during a COVID outbreak around Christmas they advised her not to return to the classroom because of immunocompromise and the risk of severe illness. She recounts guilt about leaving students and coworkers, and the emotional strain of being unable to perform physically demanding aspects of preschool special-ed work.
  • Turning to writing: Wendy had been writing poems, short pieces and prose for years. Her son encouraged her to use the time away from teaching to pursue writing. She took a month to grieve, then compiled poems spanning her life into a poetry book (four sections covering life stages, from teen years through age fifty). That publication opened a “floodgate”: she wanted to attempt long-form fiction, and started writing novels.
  • The Flanagan Girls trilogy and writing process: Wendy explains that her first novel evolved as characters emerged—she initially planned a married-couple story but a sister character (Becca) overtook it. That led her to research sibling/birth-order dynamics, interview people, and refocus on sister relationships. She describes her process—reading aloud, making notes, relying on beta readers—and character-driven writing where voices “tell” her stories. She discusses the emotional nature of writing and how life experience feeds her fiction.
  • Publishing approach and author business: Wendy says the indie/author industry is “pay to play.” She uses a hybrid publisher (Stillwater River Publications), a husband-and-wife team who also run an indie bookstore in West Warwick, Rhode Island. Wendy stresses priorities for authors: strong editing and a good cover, and choosing how to allocate time and money (formatting, distribution, marketing). She views authoring as both craft and business and has a team: editor, cover designer, publisher.
  • Reader engagement, events, and audience: Wendy enjoys book clubs and author events, noting that reader conversations informed the next book (readers’ questions about characters led to the second book’s focus). She describes her reader demographic skewing older (55–65+ retirees who have time to read) and readers who attend wineries/book-club events. She values authentic, grassroots audience-building and human connection with readers.
  • Other book projects: Wendy mentions a contemporary romance titled From This Day Forward about a police officer who sustains a traumatic brain injury and experiences migraines and sensitivity to light/sound; she says this character’s journey of accepting a new version of himself paralleled her own experience accepting changes after illness.
  • Coping with chronic pain and perspective: Wendy talks candidly about chronic pain—limited mobility, stairs she must climb hand-over-hand—and the emotional toll (anger, sadness, guilt). She also frames her illness as having a silver lining: being taken out of the classroom led her to focus on writing and publishing novels, fulfilling a long-held desire to write long-form fiction. She emphasizes generational trauma and healing, and notes her daughter’s resilience as evidence of growth from adversity.
  • Practical notes and social links: Wendy’s website is stated as wendyhallerauthor.com. She’s on social media with links from her site—Facebook and Instagram are mentioned. She tried TikTok but her children told her she didn’t belong on TikTok.
  • Closing: Jeff and Wendy reflect on the conversation, Jeff thanks Wendy, repeats her website, and Jeff stops the official recording.

Connections

https://www.wendyhallerwrites.com/

Tom Schwab BOV
Tom Schwab – Inbound Marketing (BOV)

Tom Schwab – Inbound Marketing (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:10 — 68.9MB)

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Tom Schwab is a digital marketing engineer who specializes in Inbound Marketing, a public speaker, and entrepreneur. Tom found a winning solution when he started to focus his efforts on an inbound strategy, thus turning his regional business into a national leader and now helps others discover the power of Inbound Marketing.
Tom Schwab Vroom Veer Stories

What was more fun?  Peeing in a cup, or watching others pee in a cup?  hmmm.
Did you know mostly people working on nuclear submarines are in their 20’s?
After thinking he would make the navy a career, the fall of the Soviet Union changed his mind
Thinking he was set in career sales management, until the 2nd great depression changed his mind
How the Navy uses the Fire (once) , aim, FIRE FIRE FIRE method of dialing in a target
Growing a local business to a national business uses “inbound marketing”
Being a podcast guest is WAY easier than creating a podcast yourself (amen)
Even as a podcasters, most conversions come from an external audience, by being a guest

Tom Schwab Links

402 Annie Vinje
Annie Vinje – Eat Right, Move Right Sleep Right…Feel GOOD

Annie Vinje – Eat Right, Move Right Sleep Right…Feel GOOD

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:30 — 76.3MB)

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Annie Vinje spent two decades moving between corporate marketing and teaching fitness before founding The Feel Good Method. An integrative health practitioner and meditation teacher, she helps high-achieving women navigate burnout and midlife transition, trading the chase for nervous system regulation and a path back to feeling like themselves.

Annie Vinje Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode, host Jeff Smith sits down with Annie Vinje to explore her transformation from a high-tech marketing professional to an integrative health practitioner. After experiencing a major health collapse in 2018 marked by extreme, unexplained exhaustion, Annie realized that standard medical brush-offs—and taking dozens of daily supplements—weren’t addressing the root cause of her burnout.

Annie shares how she systematically rebuilt her vitality by shifting her focus from merely “not being sick” to genuinely “feeling good.” Together, Jeff and Annie unpack the power of personalized health over one-size-fits-all diets or extreme fitness trends. They dive into actionable strategies for managing chronic stress, optimizing sleep, navigating mid-life health shifts, and customizing meditation practices to fit your actual life.

Key Highlights & Discussion Points

  • The Journey to Healing: Annie’s transition through high-tech marketing, homeschooling, and a severe 2018 health crash that led her to pursue certifications in yoga, meditation, and integrative health.
  • Redefining Your Baseline: Why sitting at “fine” shouldn’t be the standard, and why severe fatigue in your 30s or 40s shouldn’t be dismissed as a “normal” part of aging.
  • The Personalization Principle: Why popular health trends like keto or CrossFit might work for a friend but fail for your unique biology, and why a shelf full of supplements isn’t a long-term solution.
  • Demystifying Meditation: Overcoming the myth that meditation requires “stopping your thoughts.” Annie discusses personalized approaches to mindfulness—including walking, journaling, or nature—and the value of simple observation.
  • Hormones & Modalities: Why extreme cold plunges can sometimes disrupt female hormones, and why heat modalities (saunas, hot yoga) are often better suited for women’s recovery.
  • Overcoming 2:00 AM Wake-Ups: Practical approaches for middle-of-the-night restlessness, including non-sleep rest, tactile focus rituals, morning light exposure, and optimizing dinner macros.

Practical Takeaways

  • Morning Routine: Get natural sunlight in your eyes shortly after waking, delay checking email, and ease into the day to prevent early cortisol spikes.
  • Evening Wind-Down: Support overnight blood sugar stability by eating adequate protein and healthy fats at dinner while reducing evening sugar and alcohol.
  • Stress First: Chronic fight-or-flight states will undermine even the best diet and workout routines. Address baseline stress to get real results from nutrition and exercise.

Resources & Connect with Annie

Follow Annie: Search Annie Vinje on Instagram, YouTube, and your favorite podcast player for regular video updates and health tips.

Website: annievinje.com (Spelled V-I-N-J-E)

Free Resource: Download Annie’s “Why Am I Tired” checklist on her website. If you check off more than five items, it’s a great sign to reach out for individual guidance.

401 Colleen Budde
Colleen Budde – Build your Work around your Life and Family

Colleen Budde – Build your Work around your Life and Family

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:03 — 79.7MB)

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Colleen Budde is an entrepreneur, business owner, and former mechanical engineer who left a successful corporate career to build a life centered on flexibility, family, and meaningful work. After working in the automotive and defense industries, she and her husband purchased a business and began the transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship.

Today, Colleen owns multiple businesses, including a coworking space, consulting practice, and e-commerce brand. She is passionate about financial discipline, sustainable business growth, leadership, and helping people build lives that align with their values rather than external expectations.

As a mother of three young children, including twins, Colleen speaks openly about career transitions, burnout, identity shifts, entrepreneurship, and the realities of balancing ambition with family life. Her perspective combines practical business experience with an honest look at what it means to redefine success and create a life that genuinely fits.

Colleen Budde VroomVroom Veer Show Summary

Former test engineer Colleen Budde left her $140k corporate career to build a life centered on flexibility, family, and purpose. In this episode, she breaks down her journey from corporate employee to coworking franchise owner, why business growth shouldn’t become a new jail cell, and how to design a business around the lifestyle you actually want.

Connect with Colleen

https://www.buddeconsultinggroup.com

Office Evolution

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400 Dalene Higgins
Dalene Higgins Knowing your Numbers and Having a Strategy you can Trust

Dalene Higgins Knowing your Numbers and Having a Strategy you can Trust

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:47 — 67.0MB)

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Dalene Higgins is a money coach and retirement strategist who helps women and couples over 40 stop worrying about retirement and start taking action so they can create the retirement they want sooner while still enjoying life today.

Dalene Higgins Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

In this episode of Vroom Vroom Veer, Jeff sits down with Danlene Higgins of elevatefinances.us to talk about building real retirement confidence — especially for women and couples navigating their forties and beyond. Danlene brings a unique lens to money coaching: nearly two decades split between a local police department and a county sheriff’s office, the second half spent as a budget manager overseeing tens of millions of dollars and a team of twenty-two.

Danlene walks through her path from an introverted high schooler on the drill team to a career handling subpoenas, arrest warrants, and search warrants alongside detectives — work she says gave her an unvarnished, “dark side” view of the world that TV cop shows never quite capture. That same analytical, numbers-driven mindset later shaped how she approached her own retirement and eventually became the foundation of her coaching business, which she launched the same summer she retired.

A big chunk of the conversation digs into how government budgeting actually works behind the scenes — the pressure to spend down leftover funds, the culture clash between departments that reward saving versus those that punish it, and the odd incentives auditors create. Jeff and Danlene trade stories from their own experience with purchase cards and program funding, offering a rare inside look at how public money really moves.

From there, the conversation shifts to what Danlene sees most often in her coaching practice. Her take may surprise people: most of her clients aren’t actually overspending. The real issue is the lack of a system — something that turns vague financial anxiety into a clear, confident plan. She’s especially focused on helping clients plan for irregular expenses (think annual insurance premiums or quarterly bills) that don’t line up neatly with a regular paycheck.

She’s also skeptical of leaning too hard on budgeting apps, arguing that they mostly just document history rather than help you build a path forward. Her preferred approach: define where you are today, define where you want to end up, and build the plan that connects the two points.

Key takeaways from the episode:

Most financial stress isn’t caused by overspending — it’s caused by not having a system Planning for irregular expenses (insurance, quarterly bills) is one of the most common gaps Danlene sees Subtract guaranteed income (like Social Security) from expenses to find your real retirement gap The biggest limiting belief clients face is simply: “I don’t have enough”
Most clients are working within a 5–20 year retirement horizon

Practical strategies Danlene shares:

The “savings percent challenge” — increase your savings rate by one percentage point at a time until it feels tight, then hold steady before pushing further (Danlene used this to grow her own savings rate from 12% to 22% over 13 years)
Set retirement contributions as a percentage of pay, not a fixed dollar amount, so raises automatically boost savings without requiring a new decision

Regularly scrutinize recurring bills — insurance, phone plans, subscriptions — for savings opportunities
Find small, enjoyable ways to embrace frugality, from homemade soap to smarter shoe-shopping to lower-cost phone plans

Danlene also opens up about the emotional side of retiring — how even after running the numbers again and again, actually deciding to walk away from a paycheck is a psychological leap. A simple piece of advice from her nephew (“you can always go get another job”) ended up giving her the confidence to finally set a date, which she timed perfectly to enjoy a full summer off.

The episode also touches on how forced slowdowns, like pandemic lockdowns, can reveal how much discretionary spending was more habit than necessity — and how that awareness can translate into lasting savings.

Danlene breaks her coaching philosophy down into a few core “levers” for retirement progress: income, savings, debt, and expenses. Her goal with clients isn’t just spreadsheets — it’s translating financial and audit-speak into plain English people can actually act on.

Where to find Danlene:

Website: elevatefinances.us
Podcast: Wealthy After Forty
Facebook community: Retirement Ready
Free monthly webinars available through her website

If you’re feeling behind on retirement planning, or just want a clearer system for handling day-to-day money decisions, this episode is packed with grounded, practical advice from someone who’s lived both sides of the budgeting world — government and personal.

399 Heather Melville
Heather Melville – Heal Your Past Trauma for Healthy Relationships

Heather Melville – Heal Your Past Trauma for Healthy Relationships

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:13 — 82.7MB)

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Heather Melville Helps everyone have healthy, fulfilling relationships in their life, but also focused on helping those, specifically women, who have endured the opposite of a healthy relationship. Helping them heal and recover after a Toxic Relationship.

Heather Melville Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Intro: Jeff welcomes Heather to the show and asks how she’s doing. Heather says she’s trying to stay cool in the summer heat (in the desert). Jeff notes Heather is at healthyrelationships.info and asks what she’s excited about in her work.

Heather’s mission and definition of healthy relationships: Heather describes her mission—to help people have healthy relationships—and her “utopian” vision of a world where people feel safe, fulfilled, satisfied, and their complete selves in relationships. She clarifies that healthy relationships are not argument-free; conflict will happen and may remain unresolved, but it becomes a problem when conflicts are allowed to deteriorate the relationship. She references John Gottman’s book The Seven Principles for a Happy Marriage to make the point that some conflicts are unsolvable but that doesn’t mean the relationship can’t be healthy.

Focus on survivors of toxic relationships: Heather explains she mainly helps people who have suffered toxic relationships, sharing that she recovered from one herself and works on helping people come back to themselves, heal, and stop letting past trauma tint their view of relationships. She speaks about using scars as stepping stones toward authenticity and ongoing healing, and says she’s grateful for lessons learned.

Books and flow: Heather and Jeff trade impressions about reading. Heather mentions several books she’s been reading (including The Radiant Life Project and Flow), and discusses the concept of “flow” — being so passionate about something that it drives you. She says the relationship-coaching work gets her into that state of joy and purpose.

Heather’s early life and theater background: Jeff asks about Heather in high school. Heather describes being insecure then but already having “seedlings” of who she is now—playful, authentic, kid-at-heart. She wanted to be an actor, did plays (had to drop a musical for softball), and loved theater’s immediacy. She recounts watching The Glass Menagerie and being moved by its themes of authenticity and self-belief.

Stage fright and authenticity: Heather says her stage fright came from portraying characters rather than being herself; now, in her coaching and speaking work, she feels no anxiety because she shows up as Heather, not as a character.

Theater technical experience: She explains theater training made her a jack-of-all-trades—lighting design, sewing, painting, woodwork, working with lathes, etc.—and she enjoyed hands-on, physical work. She tells an OSHA-unsafe anecdote about holding onto poles instead of climbing down ladders. She also mentions an interest in pyrotechnics/chemical engineering because chemicals produce colors of light.

Career transition and toxic relationship context: Heather moved toward engineering partly for financial reasons while living in an expensive city and being financially tied to a partner who had issues with alcohol. She describes pressure from friends/family about getting a “real job,” poor grades during her theater degree (2.4 GPA), then much stronger academic performance later in engineering (3.96 GPA). She reflects on how college as a default path can pressure young people into costly decisions before they know themselves.

Patterns that led to and sustained the toxic relationship: Heather describes how she got into and stayed in a toxic relationship: depression, seeking external validation, people-pleasing, codependency, and being neurologically conditioned by highs and lows (trauma bonding). She acknowledges the partner’s issues (PTSD and alcohol) as context but not as excuses. She notes that labels like “narcissist,” “gaslighting,” and “toxic” can help identify patterns but cautions against overusing them so you don’t lose personal accountability.

Abuse details and decision points: Heather says the first time she was hit she rationalized it as a one-time incident; after a second physical-abuse incident (about a year and a half in) she knew something was seriously wrong, but she continued in the relationship for years. She stayed for eight years overall. She identifies key triggers that should have signaled problems: explosive arguments early on, a partner showing up injured at her door, controlling or jealous reactions, and later family/friends reacting negatively to him.

Turning points and leaving: Heather recounts critical turning points that led toward leaving:

Her partner told her that if he got into PA school he would leave for six months in Europe and that she would have to “figure out her own way” if she wanted to go—this led her to seek a German internship and to fund herself.

Going abroad (Germany internship) gave her space and empowerment; she emphasizes the transformative power of solo travel to build resilience, independence, and clarity.

While living apart and hiking in Flagstaff she had the realization that after eight years the likely next steps were marriage and kids — and she could not raise children in the environment she had experienced. She realized she was already alone in the relationship and would rather be actually alone than remain in that situation.

A family wedding where her partner angered her dad and others reinforced the sense that the relationship would not be supported by her close circle.

Healing approach and insights: Heather explains major lessons from recovery:

Self-worth is the root issue behind many relationship conflicts—fear of not being loved or not being enough often underlies arguments and boundary problems.

Respect is a basic human decency, not something to be earned; admiration is what’s earned. Expecting someone to “earn” respect can justify ongoing disrespect and perpetuate mutual disrespect.

Healing requires examining one’s own patterns (people-pleasing, seeking validation externally) rather than only blaming the partner.

Trauma bonding and neurological patterns explain why people stay, and understanding brain/emotion mechanics is part of her coaching work.

Practical relationship advice:

Get curious: Heather says the core advice she’d put in a book titled Get Curious — use curiosity to explore why someone feels a certain way, where feelings originate (personal history, your own actions), and to open perspective-taking rather than assuming you’re fully right. Curiosity can mediate conflict and open paths to mutual understanding.

Build something together: She suggests testing relationship dynamics by building or doing something together (Jeff jokes about building a bus or living in a very small space) to reveal how partners handle cooperation, design choices, stress, and shared responsibility. New shared challenges also bring variety and dopamine that can help sustain relationships.

Solo travel as growth and empowerment: Heather advocates solo travel as a way to build decision-making, resilience, and independence—especially valuable for people leaving toxic situations.

Don’t underestimate your power to change yourself; don’t overestimate your power to change others (Wayne Dyer quote Heather references). Focus on what you can control: your reactions, boundaries, and growth.

Attitude and broader reflections: Heather speaks about balance, ripples from small acts of kindness, humility about fame, and the value of small actions (saying hello, helping someone) in creating positive change. Jeff and Heather reiterate that life and relationships benefit from curiosity, self-awareness, and steady personal growth.

Closing logistics and contact: Jeff and Heather wrap up, plan future episodes, and Heather gives places to find her online: her website healthyrelationships.info and on social platforms. She lists Instagram as healthyrelationships.coach, Facebook as Healthy Relationships Coaching, and says she hosts monthly webinars on Eventbrite under Healthy Relationships.

Key themes and takeaways

Healthy relationships are not conflict-free; safety, mutual respect, and constructive handling of disagreements matter more than the absence of arguments.

Trauma, low self-worth, people-pleasing, and trauma-bonding dynamics can keep people in toxic relationships; understanding neurological/emotional patterns helps recovery.

Healing requires reclaiming self-worth, stopping external validation seeking, taking responsibility for one’s patterns, and setting boundaries.

Curiosity and perspective-taking are powerful tools to reduce conflict and foster connection.

Solo experiences (e.g., travel) and shared creative/challenging projects can catalyze growth and reveal relationship dynamics.

Practical next steps Heather offers: learn about the patterns (webinars), get curious about motives and feelings, work on self-worth, and consider building or traveling solo to test and grow.

Connections

Website

http://healthyrelationships.info

LinkedIn URL

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathermelville756

Facebook URL

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558475200026

YouTube URL

https://www.youtube.com/@HealthyRelationships-Love

Instagram

https://instagram.com/healthyrelationships.coach

398 Brian Sachetta
Brian Sachetta – Get Out of Your Head

Brian Sachetta – Get Out of Your Head

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:48 — 78.0MB)

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Brian Sachetta is an author, blogger, and mental health advocate based in Boston. After working through his own battles with anxiety and depression, he created Get Out of Your Head® — a brand and book series that helps others navigate their mental health through practical, real-world tactics.

Brian Sachetta Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

The episode opens with host Jeff Smith welcoming guest Brian Sachetta. Jeff asks Brian what he’s most excited about in his business.

Brian explains “get out of your head” is his writing and mental health brand. He has books—one focused on anxiety and another on depression—coaches clients, appears on podcasts, and sometimes writes blog posts. He clarifies he is not trying to replace a therapist but wants to supplement therapy by helping people “fill those gaps” between appointments with advice, storytelling, and tactics. He also says he is a software developer by trade who does the writing and mental-health work nights and weekends, and is working on a revised edition of his first book for about its tenth anniversary.

Jeff and Brian note how common mental-health struggles are. Jeff shares that he was depressed in his twenties (not diagnosed) and has stories from that time.

Jeff asks Brian about his early life. Brian says he grew up north of Boston in a little suburb and attended a public high school. He describes persistent fear and nervousness in high school that he couldn’t name—he felt anxious but didn’t talk about it. He reflects that home life was loving, but they “didn’t necessarily talk about a lot of problems,” and the culture led to repression. He describes ping-ponging between school (where he felt fear) and home (where he didn’t feel he could process or discuss it).

Brian says his anxiety ramped up in college. After his freshman year he was extremely anxious; his mother noticed, and after he broke down and cried she asked what was going on—Brian calls that a turning point, a “fear and the healing point.”

Jeff shares a family anecdote about his mother swallowing a bottle of aspirin while drunk at a party and then making herself vomit; he uses the story to illustrate generational repression and how people “speak about it never again.” Brian commends Jeff for talking about it publicly.

They discuss “big T” traumas versus many “little t” experiences. Both agree small, cumulative “lowercase t” events can build up, be invisible, and cause long-term problems. Jeff says he closely watched his mother after that incident and that his role in high school changed.

Jeff reveals that later in his twenties he had depression and suicide moments, describing an existential dread and the feeling that “life was absurd.” He says he made a couple suicide attempts, recounting one episode where he took rat poison, didn’t die, felt very ill, “went to work,” and then reached a “fuck it stage” where he decided he wouldn’t kill himself—he contrasts that as a phase, not true health.

Brian relates: his second book focuses on existential depression. He describes how doubts about religion, reading, climate-change research, and Tolstoy’s A Confession contributed to his depressive thinking about meaning and death. He shares that during his depression he feared death and the idea of oblivion consumed him. He explains where he ultimately landed: acknowledging life is hard, finding joy in small moments, doing your best on the ride, and accepting that the ride will end.

Jeff observes that for him suicide was more about avoiding problems than truly wanting to die. Brian agrees this rings true and transitions to describing an Ayahuasca journey he did, which he frames as something that helped reveal the underlying issues driving his suicidal thinking.

Brian introduces the Ayahuasca experience: he and friends went to a ceremony; he watched a Netflix episode about such a place beforehand; he says the medicine shows “layers of the onion” and can reveal things you’ve pushed down. He describes visions, voices, and the sense of seeing “the shadow side.” He stresses it’s not for everyone and depends on openness, setting, etc.

Brian recounts what the Ayahuasca showed him: it focused on relationships and how he kept people “at arm’s length.” The medicine showed him that he often avoided direct confrontation or honest communication, keeping relationships manageable rather than honest. He explains that during the journey he saw imagery (parents as celestial orbs, doors representing aspects of his life) and heard messages like “you have to let go of your parents.”

Brian discloses a longstanding private struggle: growing up in the 1990s, the word “gay” was used as a derogatory label and created fear. He had a particular fetish since childhood that led him to fear it meant he was gay; that fear contributed to a depressive episode in college where he felt he had to hide or outrun it. He recounts poor experiences with therapy (an unhelpful therapist who suggested fetishes come up only when depressed) and antidepressants that didn’t help.

In the Ayahuasca vision, Brian describes doors his dad (as a celestial orb in the vision) opened: one door indicated a woman he’d dated “was not your person”; another vision told him “you have to let go of your parents.” Then his dad showed many doors representing trauma—most were small or empty, until a large, spotlighted door appeared in the middle. Behind it he saw a woman doing the fetish. The message from the vision was that the core healing work was finding someone to share everything with—truth, honesty, and openness in relationships—not hiding parts of yourself. Brian emphasizes that it wasn’t just about the fetish but about a “lifestyle of truth” and that keeping people at arm’s length was sustaining anxiety and depression.

Brian gives concrete sensory details from the ceremony: he felt visions breaking, and when a particular vision evaporated he passed gas, noting that people often symbolically release tension (vomiting, gas, sighs, etc.). He frames Ayahuasca as a way to reveal the “water” you swim in—the habitual background shaping your life—and says the medicine can help you see and cut through that.

Brian stresses that the real work is communication and deep relational honesty; that anxiety and depression often stem from not having relationships in which you can share everything. He says therapy could also get you there over time if done well—Ayahuasca is a faster, more intense route, while meditation and other practices are slower ways that can lead to similar insights.

Jeff describes his own early exposure to energy work and meditation (an “energy work” session on a massage table with an older mentor) and says those experiences were like a BIOS update; that led him to seek meditation and other tools. He prefers slower approaches like meditation and says psychedelics/plant medicine can produce a “firmware update” but aren’t his personal choice due to the physical purging aspect.

The conversation moves to beliefs about afterlife and meaning. Both Jeff and Brian describe an agnostic stance: they want to believe in meaning or something beyond death but acknowledge they don’t know. Jeff says he leans toward agnosticism—he wants to think consciousness continues but can’t be sure; he reasons that if atheists are right and there is nothing after death, it can’t be all that bad. Brian agrees, saying he tries to stay agnostic, hopes for meaning, and recognizes the arrogance of claiming absolute certainty.

As the episode wraps up, Jeff offers to continue but they agree to end. Brian provides contact info from the transcript: his website getoutofyourhead.com (no dashes, no spaces) and Instagram @getoutofyourhead (no dashes, no underscores). He mentions the full Ayahuasca story is available on the Mind Body Matters podcast by Greg Rennie. He invites people to DM him—“DMs are open.”

Closing banter: Jeff jokes about the show’s usual “vroom vroom” style and veers; they both reflect that the conversation was a veer off the traditional path but valuable. They thank each other and sign off.

Key themes and takeaways (as presented in the episode)

Get Out of Your Head is a brand/project aimed at supplementing traditional therapy with books and coaching focused on anxiety and depression.

Anxiety and depression often come from both obvious and subtle sources; many people carry “lowercase t” experiences that accumulate.

Honest relationships—openness, communication, and trust—are central to healing for both guests. Brian’s Ayahuasca journey emphasized that sharing your true self is core work.

Psychedelic or intense spiritual experiences can rapidly reveal underlying issues, but slower methods (therapy, meditation) can lead to similar insights over time.

Both hosts take an agnostic, non-dogmatic view on meaning and the afterlife while valuing practices that help them live better now.

Practical contact: getoutofyourhead.com, Instagram @getoutofyourhead; full Ayahuasca account on Mind Body Matters by Greg Rennie; Brian’s DMs are open.

Connections

Website

397 Rebecca Lazzelle
Rebecca Lazzelle – AAA Overachiever, Burnout, Trauma to Energy Healing

Rebecca Lazzelle – AAA Overachiever, Burnout, Trauma to Energy Healing

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:11 — 72.3MB)

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Rebecca Lazzelle is the founder of Infinite Ember, devoted to a belief that healing happens through small moments of honesty and reconnection with the self. She supports others navigating their own transitions with retreats and as an energy-healing practitioner based in Colorado.

Rebecca Lazzelle Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Rebecca Lazzelle’s path from high-achieving corporate executive to healer and author is anything but linear. In this episode, she shares the pivotal moments that completely upended her life — and how she rebuilt it into something far more meaningful.

Rebecca spent decades climbing the corporate ladder, earning a Lean Six Sigma black belt, leading global teams overseeing translations into 21 languages, and eventually relocating to Denmark as a senior global director. But burnout, brutal hours, and a life-altering domestic violence incident ultimately brought that chapter to a close.

In the aftermath, Rebecca took three months of FMLA leave, embarked on a nearly 12,000-mile solo road trip, and attended a Joe Dispenza meditation retreat — where she felt like herself for the first time since the incident. That experience cracked open a new direction: energy healing.

She now practices the Emotion Code and the Body Code, modalities she values for their efficiency and their ability to release trapped emotions without requiring a verbal narrative. She also draws on EMDR, CBT, and community-centered support to help other survivors feel less alone in their recovery.

Rebecca is launching a year-long small-group cohort and hosting the Infinite Ember retreat in February 2027 in Estes Park, Colorado — a multi-modality experience she describes as a “charcuterie board of retreats.” Her memoir, What the F Was That?, releases July 9, alongside a year-long guided mindfulness journal featuring her own watercolor artwork.

Connections

Find Rebecca at rebeccalazzelle.com,

Instagram

TikTok

396 Tom Cladis
Tom Cladis: Wrestling Seven Alligators, Skydiving, and the Road to a Novel

Tom Cladis: Wrestling Seven Alligators, Skydiving, and the Road to a Novel

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 40:36 — 55.8MB)

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Tom Cladis is a writer and provocateur, a certified alligator wrestler who keeps his sail permanently set for the far horizon. He has authored two books: “How To Lift Cars Off Your Face And Other Tips For Living Forever” (non-fiction) and his latest, “The Age of Serpents and Scorpions” (fiction).

Tom Cladis Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Tom Cladis is the author of The Age of Serpents and Scorpions, a nearly 500-page coming-of-age fantasy about two Colorado teenagers who encounter a mysterious fortune teller and are launched on an adventure through time and parallel universes. Tom describes it as YA in genre but with broad adult appeal — think C.S. Lewis’s Narnia, but with Doc Holliday, Don Quixote, and Captain Kirk as supporting characters. The book explores philosophy, faith, and the choices that define us, and Tom says readers keep telling him they can’t put it down.

The book took eight years to write, squeezed into early mornings around three daughters and a full-time career. Tom has spent 43 years in the investment and financial business — a path that started with a cold call to someone he’d met on a flight, who hired him on the spot. Before that, he spent five years as a United Airlines flight attendant, during which he won a local writing contest and realized writing was his calling. His first book, How to Lift Cars Off Your Face and Other Tips for Living Forever, was inspired by a news story about an 18-year-old who did exactly that — and the idea that our minds are often the only thing standing between us and what we’re capable of.

That philosophy clearly extends to his personal life. Tom has wrestled seven alligators at a farm near the Great Sand Dunes (with about an hour of training and zero footage to prove it), gone skydiving 30-plus times — including once while his wife thought he was at a meeting, six months into her second pregnancy — and rappelled down a 40-story building for a cancer fundraiser, raising around $15,000. He’s also jumped off cliffs, done bungee jumps from hot air balloons at 500 feet, and performed handstands at the Eiffel Tower and on a castle wall in Salisbury (his daughter didn’t speak to him for two hours after that one).

His take on all of it: limits are mostly self-imposed. Once you push through one, the next one gets easier.

Tom’s book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through bookstores.

Connections

Website

Instagram @tomc_writes

395 Tom Bernard
Tom Bernard – Why you Should Invest in the S&P 500

Tom Bernard – Why you Should Invest in the S&P 500

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 36:04 — 49.5MB)

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Tom Bernard finished undergrad at Berkeley, he holds an MBA from The Wharton School of Business, as well as a Masters in Taxation.He has spent over 3 decades in finance and has taught personal finance at the City College of San Francisco.Born and raised in California, Tom lives in San Francisco with his family and is very close to being a free-birder (as opposed to empty nester).When he’s not talking money, teaching, looking at real estate or advising clients you can find him in the water… an average swimmer, a mediocre sailor and a beginner surfer.

Tom Bernard Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Jeff sits down with Tom Bernard, author of The Index of America, to talk about why the S&P 500 has become his go-to long-term investment. Tom shares his winding path through personal finance—early speculative bets, real estate headaches, and leveraged funds gone wrong—before settling on a simple “set and forget” approach with index investing.

They dig into the S&P 500’s history and eligibility rules (timely given SpaceX’s IPO that day), the power of dividends and buybacks, compound growth over decades, and how the 4% retirement withdrawal rule holds up under scrutiny. Tom also shares a case study showing how Nevada’s public pension fund thrived using the S&P 500 as its sole U.S. equity holding.

Bottom line: invest in yourself, control your expenses, automate your contributions, and ignore the noise.

Connections

The Index of America

394 Jessi Hartnett
Jessi Hartnett – You Can Quit Smoking

Jessi Hartnett – You Can Quit Smoking

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:16 — 76.1MB)

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Link to Jeff On You Can Quit Smoking – I quit chewing smokeless tobacco so many times…the last time stuck so far!

Jessi Hartnett is a wife, mother, and a coach for those seeking to move past smoking. After 15 years of living with addiction, Jessi discovered that lasting freedom wasn’t found in willpower. It was found in the heart.

Today, she uses her journey as a source of strength to help others navigate their own path to peace. Her approach, rooted in radical transformation and heart-led healing, moves beyond the surface-level habit to address the emotional and spiritual roots of the struggle. Jessi helps her clients access the gifts of their own intuition, compassion, and creativity to find a unique way out of the cycle of smoking

She is the author of Honor Your Heart, a soulful guide to quitting smoking, and the host of the You Can Quit Smoking podcast. When she isn’t coaching or recording, you can find her cooking for her family or enjoying time outdoors.

Jessi Hartnett Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Jeff welcomes Jessi Hartnett, quit-smoking coach, founder of You Can Quit Smoking, and author of Honor Your Heart. Jessi smoked for fifteen years before quitting — along with alcohol and weed — and now helps others do the same.

Jessi shares her journey from a small-town Illinois upbringing through a career in land surveying (often the only woman in the room), burnout, and years of using substances to cope with stress and anxiety. A diagnosis of gum disease and gum graft surgery became her turning point.

Rather than relying on willpower, Jessi’s approach centers on curiosity, self-compassion, and inner work — understanding why you reach for a cigarette, untangling negative self-talk, and building new ways to meet emotional needs. She and Jeff also swap practical coping strategies: kettlebell swings, soaking baths, slowing down with daily practices.

Jessi reframes quitting not as deprivation but as a doorway to a new season of life — one that, for her, included becoming a mother and finding purpose-driven work.

Connections

www.honoryourheart.net

https://www.youtube.com/@JessiHartnett

@honoryourheart

https://www.instagram.com/_honor_your_heart

https://www.facebook.com/JessiHartnettHonorYourHeart

Isaac Tolpin BOV
Isaac Tolpin – Human Behavior Expert (BOV)

Isaac Tolpin – Human Behavior Expert (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 39:51 — 36.6MB)

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Isaac Tolpin is one of the Founders of ConveYour.com, the #1 Micro-Learning platform for influencers and companies.  He’s a tech entrepreneur and futurist at heart.

On a mission, enabling brands to authentically connect and inform at scale with over 105 million in combined revenues from the companies he’s helped build.  His success comes from understanding the relationships between human behavior, business and technology. This expertise helped celebrity influencers and companies to transform their knowledge into humanized digital training.

His recent background includes, cultivating a vineyard, keynote speaker, digital marketer, and EdTech disrupter through the pioneering Mirco-Training technology, ConveYour.com, the platform that’s improving the way influencers and organizations connect and train people.  He brings a visionary mindset to his family by creating a legacy raising and educating their 7 children with his wife Angie Tolpin of Courageousmom.com.

He refuses to waste his life achieving the world’s definition of success that leave so many empty.  Instead he does what matters through projects, those he serves, and the family he leads.

Isaac Tolpin Vroom Veer Stories

Had the entrepreneur bug very early; started making and selling crafts in High School

Went to college (cause that what Gen Xer’s do!); starting doing direct sales in college

How to overcome massive entrepreneurial failure and come back stronger than ever

Big lesson from this failure was to listen to friends he really trusts

Learned how to be a better husband and father and to check his ego

Why digital training needs be fun, effective, and never boring

Human behavior doesn’t allow digital training to take hours at a time; more like 5-7 minutes

An optional workplace test game had a 95% completion rate; making it mandatory caused a drop

Isaac Tolpin Connections

Website

Ace Chapman BOV
Ace Chapman – Buying and Selling Businesses (BOV)

Ace Chapman – Buying and Selling Businesses (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:55 — 56.9MB)

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Ace Chapman bought his first business when he was nineteen.  It was an online stock market simulator called CoolWallStreet.  After selling it and seeing the benefits in buying a business over starting one, he caught the business buying bug.  Since then he has bought and sold over thirty businesses and has helped his clients all over the world buy over one hundred businesses.

Ace Chapman Vroom Veer Stories

Defied teachers in school when told to memorize the names of bones; seemed stupid to do

Bought his first business when he was 19 and in college; borrowed most of $70K to make the deal

Too make the deal happen, his investors insisted that he quit school; big scary veer

Was lucky to sell this “.com” business after the .com bust with a little money left over

His emotions went from “I’m set for life” to “I’m a failure”

Got a job at a bank; told he couldn’t have an assistant; rented space across the street & hired his own

Bank found out he had hired his own help; asked to resign

Started his own mortgage company and bought a real estate company and kept going

Sold mortgage/real estate company right before the 2008 bust; whew

Found a mentor who helped him realize that it is easier to buy a business than to build one from scratch

Ended up building a business from scratch to buy, grow, and sell businesses in the under $3 million space

Connections

Ace Chapman’s Web Site

Daniel Hayes BOV
Daniel Hayes – Improv your Life (BOV)

Daniel Hayes – Improv your Life (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:04:25 — 59.8MB)

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Daniel Hayes is a top ranked middleweight boxing prospect and Trinidad & Tobago’s boxing ambassador.

Daniel Hayes Growing up

Daniel Hayes played a variety of sports ranging from Soccer, Basketball, Football, Track and Field, Baseball and Swimming.  At just 8 years old, he started playing basketball and continued playing throughout college.  At 16, he was already a certified lifeguard and a highly recruited athlete in multiple sports.  In his senior year of high school, he was recruited to play basketball for several NCAA Division 1 and 2 schools.

Early Veers

Hayes however decided to attend Thompson Rivers University where he and his childhood best friend were offered athletic scholarships.  College proved to be quite a defining time for Hayes.  He started as a Kinesiology major but after just one single acting course, he discovered his love and passion for acting and switched his major to Theatre.

Hayes was no stranger to the camera

He was a published print model since the age of 17.  It wasn’t long after his revelation that the acting gigs began pouring in.  Hayes landed his first commercial with And1, which was quickly followed by a well-known television ad with Nike.

Improv and Acting

Eagerly seeking to develop his craft, Hayes began studying at The Second City and Groundlings, schools who boast of alumni including Jim Carrey, Will Ferrell, Seth Rogan and Steve Carell.  Hayes added to his training by studying at The Ivana Chubbuck Studio that has trained Hollywood’s elite such as Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Terence Howard and more.  Currently on his Olympic quest, Hayes fights out of the world famous Wild Card Boxing Club, home to superstar world champions Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

Daniel Hayes Vroom Veer Stories

Daniel made the honor roll one semester in High School, the basketball coach was his teacher

Learning how to listen to his body after an injury and not push himself too hard

Was hyper-focused in high-school on training, didn’t have much of a social life

Realized he missed out on High School buffoonery when he started college

Stories of sibling rivalry, getting bullied & being a bully–yup we are mammals

Small regrets of being “so serious” as a freshman in college

His college teammates wore him down & he learned to relax & enjoy the moment

In sixth grade, Daniel was in the Chess Club – he did 3 tournaments

How improv skills help on stage and in life to roll with punches

Sleep masks can be tricky if you have to get up in the night for a bathroom trip

Daniel Hayes Links

Daniel’s Web Site is Daniel-Hayes.com

393 Megan Gaul
Megan Gaul – Partake Tailored Weight-Loss Planning

Megan Gaul – Partake Tailored Weight-Loss Planning

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:35 — 66.9MB)

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Megan Gaul is a weight loss coach from Staten Island. Her mission is to support women age 30 and up, 200 lbs. and up, achieve their weight-loss goals without shrinking their lives. She came to this mission through her own 100-lb weight loss in 2018, where she discovered food freedom, healthier emotional boundaries, self-trust, and a richer life. She’s now in her 5th year of business, and she and her clients focus on small habit-change, self-compassion, and authenticity.

Megan Gaul Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Intro and welcome — Jeff introduces Megan and they ease into the conversation with some Staten Island background and shared pop culture references (John Hughes, Molly Ringwald).

Megan’s new Slack community — a supportive space for women working on weight loss who aren’t ready for one-on-one coaching. Members post daily food plans, check in at night, swap meal-prep ideas, and join a weekly group coaching class. Megan shares why she loves using Slack for something this personal.

Growing up in Staten Island — feeling like an outsider among Italian families, being a band/nerd kid rather than a club kid, and how her home food environment (three square meals, limited snacking) quietly shaped her relationship with food for years to come.

The “freshman forty-five” — unlimited cafeteria access, vending machines, and a photo she almost didn’t recognize. Megan shares how that moment pushed her to start tracking calories, eventually losing about 40 lbs (185 → 145) — but without a maintenance plan.

The scarcity mindset and night overeating — when you grow up feeling like food access is controlled, freely available food becomes hard to resist. Megan traces this pattern through college, working life, and reaching 235 lbs by age 28.

The wake-up moment — post-eating guilt, feeling out of control, and recognizing that food had become a numbing mechanism. Megan talks honestly about the parallels with addictive behavior, without labeling it as addiction.

You don’t have to give up Cheetos — Megan’s coaching philosophy centers on portioning, structure, and meal planning rather than banning favorite foods. Peanut butter, Reese’s, and all. Jeff shares his own parallel experience with military weigh-ins, strict low-calorie phases, and eventually finding green smoothies.

Small habits that actually stick — Jeff’s practical toolkit: “optic flow” walks, the 100-steps minimum, 10 minutes of morning sunlight for circadian rhythm, brief morning meditation to lower cortisol, and ramping into the day rather than diving into email. Megan affirms why consistency beats all-or-nothing every time.

Life opens up before you hit goal weight — more stamina, saying yes to hiking and standing events, not shrinking your world to avoid discomfort. Megan shares her Sunday bean salad ritual and how weekly meal prep keeps stress from driving impulsive eating choices.

Wrap-up, laughs, and a John Candy documentary recommendation. Megan shares how to find her and what she offers.

Connections

Partake Meal Planning

Leigh Martinuzzi BOV
Leigh Martinuzzi – The Hidden Why Guy (BOV)

Leigh Martinuzzi – The Hidden Why Guy (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:07 — 55.1MB)

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Leigh Martinuzzi is The Hidden Why Guy. He’s an expert in lifestyle and business design. He helps people go from living a life they hate to living a life they love. He assists people via speaking, coaching, writing and podcasting.

Having a corporate background in senior executive positions for various multi-national companies such as ALDI and Masters, Leigh realised that it wasn’t the life he wanted.

Leigh made a decision and decided to redesign his life to give him more freedom, fulfillment and happiness. He has successfully transitioned from a dissatisfying existence to a life with greater purpose.

Now he pays forward what he has learnt to help other people do the same. First, they have to find out their Hidden Why. Whether it’s finding more passion in what you currently do or a full life transformation Leigh will be your guide.

Leigh Martinuzzi Vroom Veer Stories

Story of Leigh’s earliest childhood memory taking a walk with friends going on an adventure

Leigh was a crafty entrepreneur in high school, making and selling things to kids

Started college to study engineering; quit a few months later

Got a job as a cook–boss was a dick; so he quit–got a better job as a chef!

Went back to college thinking he maybe needed a clearer path; graduated with a degree in marketing

Traveled and worked for about 4 years to Japan and points beyond; really got the travel bug

Worked in corporate for a while; worked at a startup for a while-got fired; felt like shit

Transitioned into real estate for more money and freedom; work up pitching flyers and quit that too

Moved to Japan to launch a “big money” deal; that failed

Realized he really didn’t need “big money” to be happy; started sharing value on thehiddenwhy.com

Leigh Martinuzzi Links

The Hidden Why

Free Downloads from Leigh

Dr. Glenn Livingston BOV
Dr. Glenn Livingston – Never Binge Again (BOV)

Dr. Glenn Livingston – Never Binge Again (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:40 — 46.5MB)

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Dr. Glenn Livingston is a veteran psychologist and long time CEO of a multi-million dollar consulting firm which has serviced several Fortune 500 clients in the food industry. Dr. Glenn’s work, theories, and research have been published in major periodicals.

Disillusioned by what traditional psychology had to offer the overweight and/or food obsessed male, Dr. Livingston spent several decades researching the nature of bingeing and overeating via work with his own patients AND a self-funded research program with more than 40,000 participants. Most important, however, was his own personal journey out of obesity and food prison to a normal, healthy weight and a much more lighthearted relationship with food.

Dr. Glenn Livingston Vroom Veer Stories

Before age 20, he could exercise all the weight away

Noticed he gained weight when he could NOT exercise as often

Found he could not be present for his patients who were suicidal

Addicted to “Bosco” chocolate syrup at a very young age

Born into a family of psychologist and psychiatrists

Industrial food is shorting cutting pleasure centers in our brains

Our lizard brains only think eat, mate, or kill…there is no love there

When our brains are offered a shortcut to pleasure w/ “food” it leads to extreme self neglect

How to use character decisions to pre-decide who we are most of the time

How Glenn’s “inner pig” self talk system helped him overcome bingeing

Dr. Glenn Livingston Links

Never Binge Again (free book)

Perry Marshall BOV
Perry Marshall – How to Find Freedom and Autonomy (BOV)

Perry Marshall – How to Find Freedom and Autonomy (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:06 — 87.4MB)

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Image provided by http://perrymarshall.com

Perry Marshall is one of the world’s most expensive and sought-after business consultants. Clients seek his ability to integrate engineering, sales, art and psychology.

Perry launched two movements in modern marketing. His Google AdWords books laid the foundations for the $100 billion Pay Per Click industry, and techniques he pioneered are standard best practices. He wrote the world’s best selling book on web advertising, Ultimate Guide to Google AdWords.

Recently, Perry turned “80/20” into a verb.  80/20 is not just a fact about your business, it’s action you take on your business. 80/20 is the central lever for every great strategy. His book 80/20 Sales & Marketing is mandatory in many growing companies. His books are course material in several business schools.

His other works include bestseller Ultimate Guide to Facebook Advertising (Entrepreneur Press), Evolution 2.0: Breaking the Deadlock Between Darwin and Design (BenBella) and Industrial Ethernet (ISA).

Perry consulted in over 300 industries and served as an expert witness for marketing and Google AdWords litigation.

In 2015 he launched the Evolution 2.0 Prize, which seeks to solve one of the top ten unsolved mysteries in all of science.

Direct Marketing maverick Dan Kennedy says, “If you don’t know who Perry Marshall is — unforgivable. Perry’s an honest man in a field rife with charlatans.”

Perry Marshall Vroom Veer Stories

Perry is a cat person AND kids wanted a dog, found the perfect compromise “Gracie” the Cockapoo

80/20 goes much deeper than most people think; as Perry found out writing his book

Perry focused on applying 80/20 to sales/marketing; and the 80/20 in every 80/20 idea; it’s fractal

20 yrs ago, laid off w/ baby 6 months away; changed from engineer to sales guy; big veer!

One type of salesman:  “The Hostage Negotiator”; stick them in a room and money levitates out of pockets.

Build relationships and solve problems sales strategy doesn’t work

Heard Dan Kennedy say that pounding the phone/pavement really sucks; don’t do that!

Internet Marketers like the idea of people more than actual people; prefer to work in isolation

Your superpowers get you in trouble; one way to figure out what they are

Fake fax joke; from CEO to branches; all branches will be closed effective Friday–got fired.

Perry’s superpower turned out to be writing sales emails that speak directly to the individual

Perry Marshall Links

Perry’s Website http://www.perrymarshall.com/

392 Angela Finlay
Angela Finlay – Skill Stacking Your Career

Angela Finlay – Skill Stacking Your Career

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:31 — 78.6MB)

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Angela Finlay is a Chief Human Capital Strategist, former CHRO, educator, and author of Skill Stacking: Taking Ownership of Your Career in Changing Times. With over 30 years leading talent strategy across Fortune 150 companies and fast-growing organizations, she helps professionals and leaders rethink what it takes to build a resilient career in a rapidly shifting world. Angela also teaches Leadershipand Human Capital Management at the graduate level, including at Columbia University, where she brings real-world clarity to the future of work.

Through her Skill Stacking framework, Angela equips individuals and organizations to move beyond outdated career paths and resume thinking. Instead of waiting to be developed, she challenges people to take ownership of their growth by intentionally building capabilities that create opportunity, mobility, and long-term relevance. In a world shaped by AI, disruption, and constant change, her message is clear: careers are no longer managed for you. They are built by you.

Angela Finlay Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Jeff welcomes guest Angela Finlay and they laugh about the rough tech start to the session. Jeff prompts Angela to talk about what she’s excited about. Angela describes her current roles: fractional and interim CHRO/HR leader for small- to mid-sized businesses, college-level teaching (including work with Columbia University and Fairleigh Dickinson), and a passion project — her book titled Skill Stacking, Taking Ownership of Your Career in Changing Times. She frames her book’s premise: people don’t need to “start over,” they can reconfigure and combine existing skills — an evolution rather than a revolution.

Jeff and Angela briefly discuss historical job-displacement fears (Jeff mentions the example of a job to pick up horse poop) and Angela recounts a podcast episode she’d heard about the transcontinental railroad and the recurring nature of job-displacement panic in society.

Jeff asks about Angela’s background. Angela says she attended about seven schools by high school because her father worked in the newspaper industry and the family moved often; she learned to “reemerge” in new places. In high school she intentionally pushed herself out of her comfort zone (played field hockey on a losing team, joined activities) and learned to try uncomfortable things. Jeff shares a personal anecdote about his mother buying clothes for a freshman dance and how that changed his presentation. Angela mentions putting her son in a uniform/blazer changed his demeanor.

Angela describes applying to many colleges; she unexpectedly received a full scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson and originally intended speech pathology but switched to accounting (in part because her father was an accountant). She took a job in public accounting, found the work (manual ledger work, calculators printing on paper) tedious, and left a cubicle job after about six months. Her manager had been put in charge of HR and offered it to her — she accepted, taught herself about performance evaluations via library research, and began building HR capability despite feeling underqualified.

Jeff observes that “figuring things out” is a valuable skill. Angela warns about over-reliance on instant help (Alexa) and the loss of productive struggle. They note chat AI tools are often very positive/encouraging; Jeff gives a brief anecdote of using AI to check hardware compatibility for an old computer and the AI correctly telling him “no.”

Angela traces her career: roughly eight to nine years in public accounting, then head of HR at another firm, then about ten years with a Japanese conglomerate, Mitsui. She describes cultural differences at the Japanese company: relationship-building, the “ringy” process (needing consensus from many people), and the need to engage in non-work conversation before work talk. She shares a story about a code-entry error that produced multiple memos and made her feel like she was living an “Office Space” moment. Jeff and Angela discuss how office rhythms and politeness differ across cultures and organizations. Angela says later she moved to a community bank CHRO role in Brooklyn; when the bank was sold in the pandemic she reassessed and moved toward fractional/interim CHRO work and teaching — leveraging her experience going into companies during transitions. She mentions accounting-firm sales training early in her career and that she’s “dangerous” at selling herself; also ties her teaching to early acting lessons and “interacting” skills.

They turn to the book and the skill-stacking framework. Angela explains the idea of inventorying and intentionally categorizing one’s skills instead of assuming you have no skills. She outlines categories in her stack model:

Supportive skills: foundational expertise (examples she names include accounting and employment law).

Tactical skills: execution skills — getting things done, project management, time/task management, resource allocation.

Adaptive skills: ability to pivot, learn from feedback, take feedback constructively rather than fight it.

Complementary skills: people-related abilities and emotional intelligence (EQ) — empathy, relationship-building (she gives a vivid hospital anecdote where a staffer’s comforting, practical human response mattered more than clinical intervention).

Knowledge-seeking: ongoing learning and curiosity, the polymath concept and making connectors among different domains.

Jeff and Angela discuss AI: Angela uses AI in her work but notes it tends to be optimistic and encouraging and may not tell her when an idea is a bad one. Jeff recounts the story about AI warning him not to plug a CPU into an incompatible system. They discuss limits of AI and nuance: Angela emphasizes the human ability to read subtext, in-person dynamics, and emotional cues in organizations — things she believes AI can’t replicate. Jeff and Angela also discuss image-generation tools: Angela has experimented with them, found mixed results (about “forty percent” success in her words), and recounts trying to generate an image for a white paper and getting irrelevant outputs (a “rose” instead of the intended interconnected GROWING acronym). Angela links this back to knowledge-seeking and prompting skill development.

Angela says she’s developing a free app that will let people upload resumes to visualize their skill stacks; she invites listeners to get on the list. She gives her contact info: the website stackingyourcareer.com, LinkedIn (Angela Finlay), and a YouTube channel called Stacking Your Career where she posts videos about the concepts. Jeff repeats the site and they discuss audiences and career planning briefly: Jeff references the FIRE movement (financial independence/retire early) as context for needing ways to make money; Angela stresses building and tracking transferrable skills so people can pivot across a long career span, mentioning the idea of a “sixty year career” and the U-shaped curve of happiness (listeners are told people burn out or are bored after many years and should plan to pivot).

The interview wraps up with Jeff thanking Angela for the conversation and inviting her back. Angela agrees. Jeff jokes about “skill building” to end the recording. Tim Paige’s outro thanks listeners, points them to the show notes at vvveer.com (transcribed as “v v veer dot com / triple v v double e r dot com”), and signs off.

Connections

Website

BOV Michael Brooks
Michael Brooks – From Corporate IT to Internet Marketing (BOV)

Michael Brooks – From Corporate IT to Internet Marketing (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:38 — 81.9MB)

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Michael Brooks of Nuclear Chowder Marketing started out in IT…but quickly learned he wasn’t very good at it…he was good with people, selling, and getting jobs.  Mike has had a fascinating life with loads of veers….not so much vrooming.

Vrooming with Corporate IT Support job

Installing windows, working trouble tickets…not really good at it.

His boss told him that he wasn’t very good at IT

Switched to working a sales support role in IT…which Mike really liked.

Tried his hand at programming…didn’t like it.

He found out he was more creative, working with people and selling…also great at getting jobs.

Veer for Y2K

Tons of IT jobs supporting Y2K.

Got into web application development a little.

Martial Arts School Veer

His friend who owned a Martial Arts School started asking him “business” questions…even though he didn’t have a clue.

He started working with his friend as an adviser.

One day, his buddy gave him a Dan Kennedy a marketing tape (cassette tape).

Grandfather has a heart attack at Mike’s Wedding

Grand mom moves in while grandpa is in recovery

His 12 year-old cousin died of congenital heart disease.

Totally rocked Mike’s world.

Mike was in the Air Force, but was never in the Air Force

He graduated high school barely, by the skin of a “D”.

He dropped out of community college.

He joins the Air Force as an Administrative Specialist and is waiting to depart for basic training in the delayed enlisted program.

Before he can leave for basic, he is in a serious motorcycle accident.

His recruiter does the wrong thing and tells Mike to report to basic training without telling anyone about his accident.

Mike was in too much pain to complete basic training, so he left and never went back.

Links

Nuclear Chower

@MichaelSBrooks on Twitter

Best VVV Mac Prichard
Mac Prichard – Find a Job that Matters (BOV)

Mac Prichard – Find a Job that Matters (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:23 — 50.7MB)

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This is one of my favorite episodes.  I learned about about me and my current thoughts on MY career and work.  I learned that I’m done with my “career” and mostly in pre-retirement wind down phase.  You might learn something about you as well.

Mac Prichard is the founder and publisher of Mac’s List, an online community for people looking for rewarding, creative, and meaningful work. More than 80,000 people a month visit the site, which includes a job board, a blog, and courses about the nuts and bolts of job hunting and career management.

A leading career expert, Mac helps people who are looking for a job during all of life’s transitions: millennials getting a first job, midlife professionals switching sectors, parents getting back to work after raising a family, or baby boomers who want to change careers.

Mac is proud to own two registered B-Corp companies, which use the power of markets to solve social and environmental problems. His is the author of “Land your Dream Job Anywhere” and hosts the weekly podcast, Find Your Dream Job.

Mac Prichard Vroom Veer Stories

Why we need to get off the computer and talk to people before we interview

8 of 10 jobs are never listed on job boards, those are filled through “word of mouth”

How to get an “informational interview” with someone in your field

Why building relationships should come become you send a resume; and how to “give first”

Volunteering in groups related to your desired field can help you build real relationships

Finding a great job is a skill that we all need to learn and continually hone

Networking doesn’t have to feel icky, if you ask the person how you can help them

Mac Prichard Connections

macslist.org

Linkedin

Facebook

Twitter

BOV Pratima
Pratima Aravabhoomi – Inspiration through Design (BOV)

Pratima Aravabhoomi – Inspiration through Design (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:56 — 58.7MB)

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Pratima Aravabhoomi is an amazing person to talk to…perfect for my show. Willing to discuss all the little struggles that we ALL go through, but never share on social media (wonder why?).  That’s ok, take a break from swiping for all while and check out another Best of VVV that you might have missed.


Pratima Aravabhoomi (pronounced pruh-TEE-muh AH-ruh-VAH-BHOO-mee) is a designer, quote expert and the founder of CraftStreetDesign.com. She is on a mission to help you achieve your goals, be happy, and pass on the inspiration to everyone around you through her designs.


Pratima Aravabhoomi Vroom Veer Stories

In India, didn’t really like school too much, but loved to learn
In college, only attended one math class, skipped all the others
At age 20, got married through an arrangement; moved from India to Alabama
Later, words saved her life when she had thoughts of suicide; helped her think things through
Job of a lifetime offer rescinded because she failed a mandatory fire safety test
Re-married and moved to Silicon Valley; worked at Apple as a consultant; didn’t drink the cool aid
Inspired by the words that saved her life; created Craft Street Design creating beautiful inspirational words

Pratima Aravabhoomi Links


Artist Page


BOV Lama Kathy Wesley
Lama Kathy Wesley (BOV) Journalist to Buddhist Lama

Lama Kathy Wesley (BOV) Journalist to Buddhist Lama

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:20:45 — 110.9MB)

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Lama Kathy Wesley (Lama Gyurme Chötsö) has been a student of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche since 1977.  She participated in the first three-year retreat led by Khenpo Rinpoche at Karmé Ling Retreat Center in upstate New York, and thus earned the  title of ‘retreat lama.’ Now, as a lama, Kathy serves at the Columbus Karma Thegsum Chöling as its practice coordinator, and travels to other Buddhist centers throughout the country to teach. Kathy is a graduate of Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She lives in Newark, Ohio with her husband, Michael Wesley.

Lama Kathy Wesley Vroom Veer Stories

We share stories of our shared loved of nature in childhood growing up in the Midwest, Lama Kathy in Ohio, and Michigan for me.

Lama Kathy talks a little bit about being raised in the Catholic tradition and feeling the spirit of christ during childhood.

During College, Lama Kathy was pretty stressed out and was looking for way to alleviate that stress and found Yoga.  This was her first introduction to eastern spiritual traditions and teaching.

After college she started working close to home as a journalist.  She had an opportunity to interview a Tibetan monk (Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche) for her newspaper.

After the interview Lama Kathy asked about learning about Buddhism, when he predicted that someday Kathy would “leave it all behind” meaning her stressful job, and attend a retreat…turned out he was right, but someday was 15 years later.

Kathy attend a 3-year retreat thinking that when it was over she would go back to work, but instead she became a retreat lama and teacher.

We talk about we her day-to-day life is as a Lama, which is much like a parish priest or Lutheran pastor.

We chat about the benefits of meditation and how after some time in the practice, you begin to see your behavior and authentically want to behave better, which was my experience.

Lama Kathy Wesley Links

Lama Kathy’s Website

Be Here Now – by Ram Das

Grist for the Mill – by Ram Das

Find out more about Lama Kathy’s Lineage at kagyu.org

Book:  Dharma Paths,  by Khenpo Karthar

BOV Dr. Carri Drzyzga
Dr. Carri Drzyzga – Reclaim Your Energy and Feel Normal Again (BOV)

Dr. Carri Drzyzga – Reclaim Your Energy and Feel Normal Again (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:20 — 81.5MB)

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Dr. Carri Drzyzga (Driz’ ga) is internationally known as ‘The Functional Medicine Doc’ – the go-to expert on finding the root causes of health problems so you can feel normal again. She is a chiropractor and naturopathic doctor, host of the popular podcast “The Functional Medicine Radio Show”, and author of the hit book “Reclaim Your Energy and Feel Normal Again! Fixing the Root Cause of Your Fatigue with Natural Treatments”. Dr. Carri’s newest program is a home study course called “Entrepreneurial Fatigue: How to Fuel Your Brain & Body for Entrepreneurial Success”. Her private practice is Functional Medicine Ontario located in Ottawa, Ontario.

Dr. Carri Drzyzga Vroom/Veer Stories

Working as a Chiropractor and not really liking it

Veering back to school in Chicago, moving from Canada to become a naturopathic doctor.

Dr. Carri tells her story about how after College in Chicago, she thought she just needed some time off to rest up

Turns out she was her own first patient, she had to figure out what was taking away her energy

We talk about some of Dr. Carri’s patients and their stories

Some of the “usual suspects that can cause fatigue” are:

Anemia

Thyroid Problems

Cortisol Imbalance

Blood Sugar Imbalance

Nutrient Deficiencies

Chronic Infections

Hidden Food Allergies & Sensitivities

Vitamin R, Rest, Relax, Recreation

Reframe “exercise” as FUN that is also active…whatever that is for you.

Meditation (like Sam Harris)

Yoga (if that is fun for you)

Boxing (Dr. Carri loves to beat up punching bags)

Dr. Carri Drzyzga

391 Mark Winters
Mark Winters – From Rocket Science to Rock Roll on the Road Bringing Positive Vibes

Mark Winters – From Rocket Science to Rock Roll on the Road Bringing Positive Vibes

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:55 — 72.8MB)

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Texas-based rock singer-songwriter Mark Winters is many things; a witty poet, passionate musician, entrepreneur, optimist, family man, and a bonafide rocket scientist. He first picked up a guitar to play a song for his wife on their anniversary. That’s when he discovered the joy of connecting with people through music. Mark combines music, poetry, a science background, and love for his community to form his signature sound, “rock with a positive vibe.”His musical roots are in rock, blues rock, and pop, and John Mayer, Tom Petty, and Jason Mraz are significant influences. “My music starts from a place of poetry and creative inspiration, and I use my ‘rocket-scientist brain’ to find structures that help me explore that initial burst of inspiration and feeling – like writing haikus, my favorite! My grandmother taught me to express myself through poetry and I’m thankful to her for setting me on this creative and expressive path.”Mark has a degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering, and his math and science background guides his musical explorations. He likes taking complex things such as emotions and expressing them in a way that’s easy to understand. Balancing his right-brained creativity with his analytical left-brain is part of a life-long journey; music is one more place where he can explore this balance.

Mark Winters Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Jeffery and Mark discussed Mark’s music career and upcoming tours. Mark shared details about his “Good Vibes Highway Tour” in the spring and a fall tour, as well as plans to release new music in March and May. He expressed his passion for both music and his previous career as an aerospace engineer, describing how music has become a fulfilling passion project for him.

Mark’s Diverse Interests and Career

Mark shared his diverse background, including his studies as an aerospace engineer and his passion for poetry, which he pursued as a personal hobby with his grandmother. He discussed his work in the aerospace industry, including his experience with simulation design and training for projects like the Apache and F-16 aircraft. Mark also mentioned his appreciation for music and how it played a significant role in his life, regardless of the activity he was engaged in.

Mark’s Guitar Learning Journey

Mark shared his personal story of taking up guitar playing in 2011 as a New Year’s resolution to play a song for his wife’s anniversary. He approached Steve at Smack Guitars, who agreed to teach him both playing and singing, despite Mark’s complete lack of musical experience. Mark chose to learn “What You Give” by Tesla, a song that resonated with him about giving rather than receiving, though he acknowledged it was challenging both to play and sing.

Music’s Power to Connect

Mark shared his experience of learning to play guitar and performing a song for his wife at a restaurant, which led to a profound emotional connection and realization of music’s power to create meaningful experiences. He described how he initially struggled with remembering chords and lyrics simultaneously but found a creative solution by hiding them inside an anniversary card. The story concluded with Mark reflecting on how this experience in 2011 changed his perspective on music as a powerful means of connection, prompting him to continue learning guitar.

Forming the Band Agave Report

Mark shared his experience of forming a band called Agave Report with Manish, a talented musician he met who played guitar and sang beautifully. They recruited a drummer and bass player to form a garage band, with Mark initially taking on the role of lead guitarist and backing vocalist. The band played eclectic covers including songs by The Doors, Eagles, and modern artists like Neon Trees, performing their first show in 2014 or 2015.

Mark’s Musical Journey and Adaptation

Mark shared his musical journey, starting with a band where he struggled to sing certain songs due to personal reasons, leading him to write his own music in 2018. He released his first album in 2019 and faced challenges during a tour when COVID-19 hit, but adapted by performing online. Post-COVID, he focused on acoustic music and connected with other singer-songwriters, eventually growing his audience and performing at venues like the House of Blues Bronze Peacock Room in Houston. Mark emphasized the importance of connecting with his audience and the positive impact his music has had on people’s lives.

Music Industry Challenges and Opportunities

Mark discussed his experiences as a musician, particularly in Houston and Las Vegas, noting the challenges small to mid-sized venues face due to economic viability issues post-COVID. He highlighted the need for musicians to be versatile and self-sufficient, mentioning the importance of community engagement and the DIY approach in the current music industry.

Connections

Mark Winters Music

390 Chanda Coston
Chanda Coston – From Profound Hardship, Service in the Navy, Success in Business to Coaching

Chanda Coston – From Profound Hardship, Service in the Navy, Success in Business to Coaching

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:03 — 74.3MB)

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Chanda Coston, is a business strategist and coach dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs in the third quarter of life create businesses that truly reflect and support their current season. Her work centers on clarity and confidence instead of burnout, offering straightforward systems so women can reclaim their vision and thrive. With over two decades in corporate strategy, extensive entrepreneurship, and a background as a USN veteran and mother to five, she knows what it’s like to navigate new directions after life changes. She guided more than 100 women to build businesses that fit where they are now, using focused project management, automation, and actionable steps.

Chanda Coston Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Overcoming Adversity Through Education

Chanda Coston discussed her journey from a challenging upbringing in Hampton Roads, Virginia, to becoming a business strategist and coach for women over 40. She shared her experiences of dropping out of high school at 15, obtaining a GED through Job Corps, and later joining the Navy as an aviation storekeeper, where she earned an associate’s and bachelor’s degree. Chanda also talked about leaving an abusive marriage and using the military’s educational benefits to further her education. She emphasized her passion for helping others transition into entrepreneurship and viewed her own experiences as a testament to overcoming adversity.

From Military to Entrepreneurial Mentorship

Chanda shared her career journey from the military to government contracting and eventually starting her own firm, which she had to pivot from when she lost her brother to gun violence. She established a nonprofit in response to this tragedy, which led her to explore mentorship and coaching. Chanda discussed her professional background in logistics, engineering, and project management, and the challenges of transitioning from a corporate to an entrepreneurial mindset. She also described the devastating story of her brother’s murder and the subsequent lack of justice in the case, which deeply affected her and her family.

Trauma and the Pursuit of Justice

Chanda shared her experience of a traumatic event involving her brother’s murder, which was initially pursued as a case but was later dismissed due to witness intimidation. She expressed frustration and anger over the justice system’s failure to prosecute the perpetrator, despite the evidence and her willingness to relive the trauma for justice. Chanda concluded by reflecting on the importance of love and support, emphasizing that love often requires selflessness and sacrifice.

Government Contracting Career Transition

Jeffery and Chanda discussed Chanda’s military background and transition to government contracting and coaching. Chanda shared her experience as an aviation storekeeper in the Navy and her subsequent career in consulting and contracting. They explored the challenges of starting a business and the importance of building relationships in the government contracting sector.

Connections

Website

389 Adele Spraggon
Adele Spraggon Shift: Four Steps to Personal Empowerment

Adele Spraggon Shift: Four Steps to Personal Empowerment

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:49 — 71.8MB)

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Adele Spraggon is an award-winning author, thought leader, and internationally recognized expert in personal development, mindset transformation, and neuroplasticity. With a deep understanding of behavioral change, she helps individuals break free from self-sabotaging patterns and rewire their thinking for success. Adele’s innovative four-step approach, rooted in neuroscience, empowers people to shift their mindset and achieve lasting transformation. She has received numerous accolades, including the Woman of Inspiration: Customer Experience Award and Top Behavioral Expert of the Year. As a sought-after keynote speaker and trainer, she inspires audiences worldwide to embrace change and unlock their full potential. Adele is the author of Shift: 4 Steps to Personal Empowerment, a best-selling guide to overcoming mental roadblocks and achieving personal breakthroughs. Passionate about guiding people toward a more fulfilling life, she continues to make a profound impact through her coaching and thought leadership.

Adele Spraggon Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Adele discussed her business growth, including her decision to train facilitators, which represents a significant step toward creating a lasting legacy. She shared her personal journey, including her upbringing in Venezuela and her current dual citizenship as a British and Canadian citizen. Adele expressed excitement about transitioning into retirement while ensuring her business continues to thrive.

Childhood Experiences with Mental Illness

Adele discussed her childhood in Venezuela, where her mother, struggling with a mentally ill husband, moved with their three young daughters to a new country. Adele attended school in Ontario, Canada, where she faced self-esteem issues. They explored how mental illness medications were less effective in the past, with Adele’s father being diagnosed with various conditions including bipolar disorder and paranoid schizophrenia. The conversation concluded with a discussion about brain chemistry and overdose prevention, drawing parallels to addiction rituals and the body’s natural protective mechanisms.

Overcoming Trauma and Finding Fulfillment

Adele shared her journey from surviving high school to pursuing accounting despite lacking self-esteem, influenced by childhood trauma. She described her career transition from accounting to running a daycare, which she found fulfilling despite the challenges. Adele also mentioned her struggle with panic attacks and her decision to seek therapy, eventually leading her to write a book about behavior change and the human subconscious.

Self-Discovery Technique for Panic Attacks

Adele shared her personal journey of overcoming panic attacks and other behavioral issues through a process of self-discovery and reprogramming. She explained how she transformed her understanding of her brain’s patterns and developed a technique involving four steps to address and rewire negative thought processes. Adele successfully applied this method to eliminate her panic attacks and quitting behavior, and she later decided to teach this technique to others by gathering 13 friends in her basement to share her approach.

Meditation Research and Brain Studies

Adele and Jeffery discussed the effectiveness of a four-step meditation process, with Adele sharing her extensive meditation experience and Jeffery exploring how meditation can enhance sensory awareness. They agreed on the potential benefits of using fMRI technology to study brain changes during the meditation process, with Adele mentioning a former participant who is now pursuing a PhD to conduct research on the four steps.

Empowerment Technique and Practice

Adele shared a technique for personal empowerment involving four steps: identifying a pattern of physical sensation, emotion, and thought without judgment; acknowledging that one created their reality; deconstructing the pattern; and creating a new pattern. She emphasized that this process, similar to exercise, requires daily practice and takes about 6 weeks for the brain to adapt. Adele encouraged Jeffery to try the technique, which is detailed in her free book available at shift4steps.com.

Morning Routines

Jeffery shared his morning routine tips, including getting morning sunlight before 10 AM, taking electrolytes with water, and delaying coffee for 90 minutes to improve sleep and reduce cortisol levels.

Connections

Website

Shift4steps.com – Free copy of Adele’s book

Chris Parker BOV
Chris Parker – How a Simple Website born in 2000 now Pays his Bills (BOV)

Chris Parker – How a Simple Website born in 2000 now Pays his Bills (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:53 — 47.6MB)

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Chris Parker is the founder of WhatIsMyIPaddress.com, the number one IP address lookup website. Chris started the website in January 2000 and for the first five years his revenue didn’t even cover his internet bill. In 2014, Chris was laid off from his corporate job and was faced with the scary opportunity to make his website a full-time business.
Chris Parker Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Tustin California and has lived within a 10 mile radius of home his whole life
Went to Cal State Fullerton for about a year; not a great student–then attend the local community college for more years he wants to disclose; quit school when he realized his part time job was paying more than the what college grads were earning
Worked in sales for a company called “Club Mac” selling Macintosh computers via a mail order catalog and in-person; not a great salesman; was talking people into buying cheaper computers
Worked on IT and web stuff near the birth of the internet for Club Mac; at that time there wasn’t an easy way to figure out your public IP address
He build a server out of spare parts and set it up in his house to run the first version of WhatismyIPaddress.com.  No graphics, it just returned the IP address.
At some point he was getting alerts telling him the harddrive was nearly full; the traffic logs were building up
Verion .1:  He offered to answer questions via email; he just the email traffic to generate a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list
A few years later Google Adsense call along; and decided to throw up a banner ad and it made a little bit of money; neat!
Warning!  Geek Content!:  The server ran in Chris’s house from pre-google time until 2014; he had a half rack server with UPS’s in case of power outage and a very high electric bill trying to keep the house under 90 degrees and he was spending way too much money paying for internet bandwidth
His wife points out that it might not be the best idea to have all the business assets in their house; a break in would effectively kill the business
Strange as it sounds there were about six co-location facilities in Tustin within 1 mile of his house; bring your server there and plug it into their facility and you rent power, bandwidth, HVAC, and security.
In 2014 he was selling life insurance online; the economy tanked and people were getting laid off work; Chris was asked to transition from full to part time
Went back to full time for a while; but eventually he was let go entirely; Should I get a job or work full time on the website business?
They experimented with working on the business for six months; which made enough to keep going—he has now replaced his job income with the business revenue
Version .2 of the website, no graphics, bar on top, bar on bottom and a wall of text
Version .3 he hired a graphic designer to make the site look much better GRAPHICS!
Version .4 hired a couple of content writers to create blog content related to online security and internet privacy
How important it is to use a VPN (virtual private network) to secure your internet connection; most businesses out there don’t know how to secure their network and the ones that do are breached all the time
On a trip to Taiwan from Sinapore his wife gets sick; in the airport in Taiwan there was a medical station using an infrared “fever detector” to find sick people and put them in quarantine; Chris noticed in time to put himself the detector and his wife and they made through
Barf bag of the month club for dog owners who get queasy when picking up dog poo; start collecting those barf bags from airplanes
You can verify that your VPN is working on Chris’s site; you can also verify the country of an IP address; helpful to verify an internet order before you ship

Chris Parker Connections
Website – WhatismyIPAddress.com

BOV Lauren Gaggioli
Lauren Gaggioli Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Friend – BOV

Lauren Gaggioli Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Friend – BOV

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:02:27 — 85.8MB)

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Lauren Gaggioli is the founder of Higher Scores Test Prep – an online SAT & ACT test prep company – and host of The College Checklist Podcast. Lauren is also the founder of Gold Star Test Prep, an in-home SAT & ACT tutoring company. With Gold Star, I’ve been serving families throughout Southern California for 7 years. She is a beer geek, a tech nerd and one of my new favorite people. Check her out on Twitter.

Lauren Gaggioli Vroom Veer Stories

In High School she was really prepping for College totally in Vroom mode

She veered to NYU school of theater, which was very different from her roots as an academic roots.

She didn’t feel like she belonged in the community of actors.

She finished her bachelor’s degree in 3 years and then moved back to Southern California to pursue acting.

Veer away from acting and returned to her roots as an academic.

She started working as a SAT/ACT tutor as a job.

Veered away from “employee” and started her own SAT/ACT tutoring company

Learned how to do most of her tutoring online, so she spends significantly less time driving from client to client

Lauren Gaggioli Links

Lauren’s Web Page

Higher Scores Test Prep

The College Checklist Podcast

Gold Star Test Prep

Jimmy Fallon “Ew” Video

That Guy…Who was in That Thing…

Robert Patrick on Nerdist Podcast

Buffer App for Social Media

Social Ommph

Chris Brogan

Subscribe = Love 😀

388 Dr. Will Haas
Dr. Will Haas – Take Charge of Your Health

Dr. Will Haas – Take Charge of Your Health

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:08 — 70.4MB)

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Dr. Will Haas, MD, MBA is redefining what it means to age well. He is the Founder and CEO of VYVE Wellness in Charlotte, NC, where he helps high-achieving professionals reclaim energy, focus, and vitality through cellular optimization.

Board-certified in Integrative and Family Medicine, Dr. Haas blends advanced therapies—IV nutrient infusions, therapeutic peptides, hyperbaric oxygen, and red light therapy—to deliver measurable results that help patients feel decades younger.

Beyond VYVE, he co-founded OvulifeMD, creating natural fertility protocols, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Infusive, supporting wellness practices nationwide. His expertise has been featured in Men’sJournal, Daily Mail, Yahoo Life, and Woman’s World Magazine.

Passionate about bridging science with practical results, Dr. Haas empowers high-performers who want more than just longevity—they want their best years ahead of them.

Dr. Will Haas Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Journey to Integrative Medicine

William shared his journey from medical school to finding his passion in integrative medicine, which focuses on using a variety of healing modalities to optimize health. He initially struggled with the conventional approach to medicine, which primarily focuses on treating diseases, and decided to pursue business studies during his medical training. However, a personal loss led him to fulfill his father’s dying wish to complete his medical degree. William eventually found his calling in integrative medicine, which he believes should be the standard approach to healthcare, combining the best of conventional and alternative treatments.

Cellular Optimization and Health Strategies

Jeffery and William discussed the concept of cellular optimization and the importance of addressing toxins and oxidative stress in the body. They explored how factors like poor diet, lack of sleep, and environmental exposure can contribute to cellular damage and reduced energy levels. Jeffery shared his personal experience of reducing sugar and processed foods intake, which led to improved health and well-being. They also touched on the idea of getting a CT scan for a calcium score as part of a proactive approach to prevent heart attacks.

Cardiovascular Health Assessment Strategies

Jeffery and William discussed cardiovascular health, diagnostic tests, and therapeutic peptides. William explained the importance of assessing inflammation levels, homocysteine, and other markers to evaluate heart attack risk. They talked about the benefits of advanced lipid panels and the role of Apo B and oxidized LDL in predicting cardiovascular events. William shared a success story of a patient who improved his health through dietary changes, gut healing, and IV nutrient therapies. They also briefly discussed the potential of therapeutic peptides under medical supervision.

Connections

Website

387 Meghan Cathlin
Meghan Cathlin – Leading with the Heart

Meghan Cathlin – Leading with the Heart

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:16 — 66.7MB)

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Photo Credit: Leah Muse

Meghan Cathlin is a writer, speaker, and founder of Considerate Ventures. For over 25 years, she has been a trusted advisor to authors, celebrities, CEOs, and dignitaries, in high-stakes environments and heart-centered missions. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her son Greyson and their two dogs, Lucy and Django.

Meghan Cathlin Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Journey of Healing and Resilience

Meghan Cathlin, author of “Leading with the Heart,” discussed her journey of personal growth and resilience following the loss of her father to suicide at a young age. She shared how this experience shaped her worldview and inspired her book, which combines memoir and prescriptive elements. Meghan also highlighted her current projects, including writing her next book and supporting clients through her agency, Considerate Ventures. The conversation explored themes of healing, self-compassion, and finding meaning in life’s challenges.

Overcoming Poverty and Bullying

Meghan shared her experiences growing up in poverty and the impact it had on her mental health and social life. She discussed how she was open about her struggles, which helped her cope but also made her a target for bullying. Meghan described the challenges of dealing with mean girls in elementary school and the deteriorating situation at home, including her sister’s rebellion and attempts at suicide. The conversation touched on the universal reasons behind bullying and the importance of resilience in overcoming difficult experiences.

Overcoming Challenges to Success

Meghan shared her personal journey, which began with dropping out of school at age 12 and engaging in rebellious behavior, including drinking and experimenting with drugs. She eventually found success through a job at a jewelry supply store, which led her to pursue a career in the music industry as a concert promoter. Despite not receiving a traditional education, Meghan was able to earn a high school diploma by working part-time and completing assignments on Fridays.

Education and Knowledge Gaps

Jeffery and Meghan discussed the importance of education and how reading, even fiction, can fill knowledge gaps. They also talked about the stigma associated with not having a high school diploma and the value of obtaining one. Meghan shared her experience working in the concert promotion industry in the late 1990s, before it became more centralized.

Career Journeys and Personal Motivation

Meghan shared her career journey from working at a rock concert promotion company to a corporate event agency, where she learned different aspects of event management. She discussed her personal motivation, which was driven by a desire to prove herself after facing judgment and bullying during her childhood. Jeffery shared his academic experience, noting his natural ability to succeed in subjects like science and English without much effort, which he attributed to his parents’ work-hard-play-hard values.

Journey to Authentic Success

Meghan shared her journey from an aggressive pursuit of success to finding a more fulfilling path through personal growth and coaching. She discussed her book “Leading with the Heart,” which explores the disconnect between societal success metrics and true happiness. Meghan emphasized the importance of listening to one’s heart by recognizing what brings joy (YES!) and avoiding activities that drain energy (Uhgs). She also highlighted the need to balance authenticity with practical responsibilities.

Connections

MeghanCathlin.com

Considerate Ventures

BOV Dr. Thomas Recher
Dr. Thomas Recher – Positivity Effect (BOV)

Dr. Thomas Recher – Positivity Effect (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:30 — 80.3MB)

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Dr. Thomas Recher helps individuals with hearing impairment sharpen their ability to communicate and in some instances reconnect to the world of sound. Right before he began college, Dr. Tom’s brother sat him down and said, “To live a fulfilled life, find a career in life that you would love waking up to every morning – where it doesn’t feel like work” Nine years later, Dr. Tom successfully obtained his doctorate and opened a private practice in audiology right out of school. The road was bumpy, but with the assistance of great mentors and the power of positivity, he celebrated the office’s one year anniversary this past September. Now he’s also the host of a podcast called The Positivity Effect. He quickly realized the importance of mentors in his life and now he wants to pay it forward. Dr. Tom is inviting everyone to join him in creating a ripple effect of positivity in the world.

Dr. Thomas Recher Vroom Veer Stories

Started out in accounting for his under-graduate degree…then walked out of a class and had to change his major

Changed his Major to Speech and Language Pathology, which was better…but not quite right

Finally found the world of audiology, helping people with hearing impairments

Teamed up with this friend, who happened to be a Chiropractor who ran his own business for 10+ years

Launched his own business right out of college and has been working at for a year now

Launches his on podcast “The Positivity Effect” on 23 Nov to spread the word on the benefits of a positive mindset

We talk about how important mentors are in his life and how even mentors you never meet can change your life.

Dr. Thomas Recher

Cat Rose BOV
Cat Rose – The Creative Introvert (BOV)

Cat Rose – The Creative Introvert (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:33 — 45.4MB)

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Cat Rose helps creative introverts reach their goals through coaching, online programs, step-by-step guides and my online membership community the League of Creative Introverts.

Cat Rose Vroom Veer Stories

Feeling thoroughly drained at an office job, didn’t know why

Quit job to start freelance work; but first took a trip to Japan

Learning that introverts use energy when interacting with large groups people

Helping introverts sell their art in ways that feel good to an introvert

Why Japanese people put non-sense English words on products

Why heated toilet seats in Japan are essential

Accidentally walking into someone’s home looking for an Osen (hot bath) oops!

Cat Rose Links

The Creative Introvert

The League of Creative Introverts

Dan Erickson BOV
Dan Erickson – Simple Living (BOV)

Dan Erickson – Simple Living (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:46 — 87.6MB)

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Dan Erickson is  a minimalist. He spent most of his life trying to simplify. He rejects the ways of consumption and waste and prefer to produce and renew.  He is an author of several books and a single Dad.

Dan Erickson Vroom Veer Stories

Living in a cult as a slave boy.  How did that happen?Transitioning from cult back to freedom in foster care.How did Dan learn to forgive people after being in a cult?How Dan used writing and blogging as his own therapy for PTSD, which he didn’t know he had.Finishing up a trilogy of novels based on his experiences living in a cult & his recovery.Turned off internet for the summer to unplug.  How did that work out?How did you get interested in a more simple life?

Dan Erickson Links

Website

A Train Called Forgiveness

At the Crossing of Justice and Mercy

Always On:  Language in an Online and Mobile World, by Naomi Baron

Essentialism:  The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, by Greg Mckeown

Brad Szollose BOV
Brad Szollose Inspiring a Multi-Generational Workforce – BOV

Brad Szollose Inspiring a Multi-Generational Workforce – BOV

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:17 — 91.0MB)

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Brad Szollose says:  “Has anyone noticed that there is a generational divide these days? Today we have 4 very defined Generations working side-by-side. Generation Y are also called Millennials or Digital Natives and working with Baby Boomers and Traditionalist. Ever wonder why this is an issue all of a sudden?”

And WHY is Generation X being ignored?

Brad Szollose (Zol-is) is a global business adviser and the foremost authority on Generational Issues and Workforce Culture Strategies who specializes in helping businesses large and small ignite their business productivity.

Author of the award-winning, international bestseller Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia, Brad is a former C-level executive of a publicly traded company that he cofounded that went from entrepreneurial start-up to IPO in three years; the first Dot Com Agency to go public on NASDAQ. His company K2 Design, experienced 425% hyper-growth, due in part to a unique management style that won his company the Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices in Fostering Innovation among his workforce.

Today, Brad helps smart companies like Dell and MasterCard, understand just how much technology has transformed a new generation, and how that impacts corporate culture, management interaction, expectations, productivity and sales in The Information Age.

Brad Szollose Vroom – Veer Stories

Story about Star Wars – How did you discover this modern global “myth” that is so influential?

Video games in the home changed digital natives into an on-demand culture.

Student-Centered education went mainstream, flowed into the workplace

I was born in 1969…so what does that make me?  I am pre-1977…but I love Star Wars! 😀

And WHY is Generation X being ignored?

GenXers have an opportunity to serve as a bridge between generations, I speak some of both of these languages.

Why are Valve and Zappos so scary to Boomers?

What does the future hold for Baby Boomers?

Brad Szollose Generational Distinctions

Pre-1977 Analog aka Digital immigrants

Post 1977 Digital Natives

Brad Szollose Links

LinkedIN

Brad Szollose on Twitter

Brad’s Keynote Promo Video (Funny and informative)

386 Shannon Ryan
Shannon Ryan – Money, Feelings and Dealing with Shame

Shannon Ryan – Money, Feelings and Dealing with Shame

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:20 — 79.2MB)

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Shannon Ryan is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with over 30 years of experience guiding individuals and families through the emotional side of money. Known for her relatable insights and warm, clear style.

Shannon combines deep financial knowledge with a heart-centered approach to help people move from money stress to empowerment.

She’s the author of the upcoming book Your Money Has Feelings and a seasoned media guest, having appeared on CNBC, Good Morning America, and TEDx. Shannon’s work focuses on uncovering the beliefs and wounds that silently shape our financial behavior—and showing people how to rewrite them. Whether she’s advising clients or speaking to audiences, Shannon helps others understand why they do what they do with money, and how to build lasting confidence rooted in clarity, not shame.

Shannon Ryan Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Emotional Aspects of Financial Decisions

Shannon discussed her book “Your Money Has Feelings,” which explores how personal experiences and emotional responses influence financial decisions. She emphasized that money issues often stem from unconscious emotional responses rather than a lack of funds, and she highlighted the importance of understanding these underlying factors to better manage finances. Jeffery agreed with Shannon’s perspective, noting that money-related problems are complex and not solely about having enough money.

Money’s Emotional Impact on Lives

Jeffery and Shannon discussed their personal experiences with money and its impact on their lives. Shannon shared her childhood experiences growing up in a divorced family where money was used as a tool for power, which shaped her views on financial independence and earning potential. Jeffery introduced the concept of the Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) movement and discussed his own journey towards financial independence. They both agreed that money is an emotional topic and that financial literacy goes beyond just knowledge, involving personal experiences and emotional wounds.

Financial Decisions and Learning Insights

Jeffery and Shannon discussed the changing landscape of information access and its impact on research and learning. Shannon shared a personal story about helping clients align their financial decisions with their personal goals, emphasizing the importance of questioning cultural expectations and societal pressures. Jeffery recounted his own experiences with homeownership and financial decisions, highlighting the lessons learned from missed opportunities and financial challenges. Both agreed on the value of learning from mistakes and moving forward with newfound knowledge.

Vacation Home Investment Myths

Shannon and Jeffery discussed the misconceptions around real estate investments, particularly vacation homes. Shannon emphasized that while owning a vacation home may not be a sound financial investment, it can provide personal fulfillment and create lasting memories. They also touched on the changing dynamics of rental markets and the importance of aligning personal values with lifestyle choices when deciding where to live.

Client Expectations and Ethical Investing

Shannon shared a personal story about a client who was dissatisfied with his 37% portfolio return in 1998, despite it being significantly higher than expected, because he felt his neighbor who invested entirely in tech stocks performed better. This led to a discussion about how money is a primal and emotionally charged topic due to its connection to basic needs and societal judgment, and how financial advisors must balance client expectations with ethical investing practices.

Financial Risks and Professional Advice

Shannon shared a personal story about a client who lost 80% of their retirement investments after taking unnecessary risks, leading to a difficult parting of ways. She emphasized how fear and greed can make people vulnerable to poor financial decisions and fraud, while also discussing the importance of professional financial advice. Jeffery shared his own experience of receiving early financial guidance from an uncle and learning about The Motley Fool’s resources, which helped shape his investment approach.

Retirement’s Emotional and Financial Transition

Shannon and Jeffery discussed the transition from working to retirement, emphasizing that while managing finances is relatively straightforward, the emotional aspects of retirement are more challenging. Shannon highlighted the importance of understanding one’s financial flow and overcoming emotional barriers to engage with money management tools. They agreed that while resources for retirement planning are freely available, many people avoid addressing their finances due to emotional resistance.

Empowering Financial Planning Conversations

Shannon and Jeffery discussed financial planning, focusing on the importance of understanding one’s spending habits and addressing the emotional challenges associated with financial discussions. Shannon emphasized the need to move away from self-judgment and shame when talking about finances, suggesting a more empowering approach to conversations with family and friends. Jeffery expressed interest in learning how to facilitate such discussions and shared a personal belief in taking responsibility for one’s life, regardless of the circumstances.

Mindset and Money Discussion

Shannon and Jeffery discussed the power of mindset in relation to money, with Shannon emphasizing that positive thinking can lead to better financial opportunities. They also talked about Shannon’s upcoming book “Your Money Has Feelings” and her website. Jeffery mentioned that the podcast episode would be released the following Monday and offered Shannon a link to the Zoom recording for her social media use.

Connections

Website

Best of VVV
Anup Desai – How to Reduce Idle Capacity (BOV)

Anup Desai – How to Reduce Idle Capacity (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:13 — 75.1MB)

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Anup Desai is a Professor of Geography, Founder of Rentah.com, Lover, Fighter, Activist and concerned human.

Anup Desai is an activist, Professor of Geography and Political Science for the City University of New York, and the Founder of www.Rentah.com (Rent Whatever, Whenever). They are a diverse and passionate Sharing Economy Start-Up that is looking to change the way people consume their goods, promote their services and connect within their community.

 Geography shows us that populations are increasing, consumption habits are increasing and money is becoming more and more unequally distributed in our society. Anup’s desire to facilitate change gave birth to www.Rentah.com.  Rentah.com is a website and app that allows people to rent out and resell their goods and services. The less we buy and the more we rent the less stuff we have to take out of the good earth! It also has the added benefit of keeping our money and resources local.

Anup’s mission is to reduce idle capacity – not only in goods but in the skills we hold! Be sure to check out his appearance on BBC World News discussing income inequality.

Anup Desai Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Staten Island New York 1st generation immigrant family from India

Felt like he was part of the only brown family in Staten Island

Interned as a “brand ambassador” for rum company; went to bars; drank the rum

Completed his Master’s degree in Mexico City, classmates were an ambassador’s son; and an asst to the VP of Mexico

We know there is a lot shitty about capitalism; how do we make it better?

One defense project might fund basic needs to millions of potential terrorists?

Protesting is cool, but at some point you need to start doing something other than marching

Anup Desai Links

Linked

Rentah – Rent Whatever, Whenever

Monica Shah BOV
Monica Shah – Healing our Relationships with Money (BOV)

Monica Shah – Healing our Relationships with Money (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:12 — 46.9MB)

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Monica Shah is a seven-figure business coach who helps entrepreneurs build businesses that support their ideal lifestyles. After receiving her MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and working in marketing for L’Oreal Paris, Monica left corporate to start her first company – and then her second company, Revenue Breakthrough. Today, she takes her clients step by step through building, growing and expanding their businesses. She combines her business acumen with her intuition and healing abilities to help her clients get unstuck, eliminate self-sabotage and move through fear. She is also the author of Getting Rich: You’re Doing It Backwards and Pause: 52 Questions that Lead to More Money and Time.

Monica Shah Vroom Veer Stories

Worked with animals at the Cincinnati Zoo in high school and into college; was planning on a career working with animals; discovered she was allergic to animal hair and had to work with people instead

In college majored in religion, environmental science, and writing–those seem disconnected but they all served her well in her future life and work

First job out of college she worked project management and change management for a consulting firm; helped Ralph Lauren put their brand on the web during the dot.com boom; the person in charge of web development at Ralph Lauren was 28 years old

Did her MBA and then got a job with L’Oreal of Paris; Monica stuck out like a sore thumb–the company is run by smart beautiful women really into hair and makeup since a young age–much like the movie “The Devil wears Prada”

Working @ L’Oreal emptying bottles of lotion at 2 am with her boss who says–“Is this NOT the MOST fun thing you’ve ever done?”  The question led Monica to leave L’Oreal and start her own business

Leaving L’Oreal she had the experience of doing 3 product launches a year; so she thought she was hot shit and was going to just kill as an entrepreneur right away; the reality was after a year she was 25K in debt and couldn’t figure had to pay it off

Stuck in a mode of working 60 hours/week so she didn’t have to work 40 hours/week for someone else; walked dogs, did cat sitting, did focus groups and rented out her apartment; rock bottom was sitting on floor in a New York subway feeling like a bag lady

She gave herself one year to figure out this business thing (with help) and if it didn’t work; she would go get a job.  She learned that she was doing the business steps in the wrong order; like writing a book when you don’t have money for groceries

Once she learned the 5 steps and the right order in which to take the steps; she was able to make enough money in her business to pay off her debt she also put 12K in the bank; every year after that she was able to double or triple her revenue

How feeling shame about not making money holds us back from making money

One “money type” is an avoider who has difficulty looking at numbers related to money; conversion rates; sales figures; sending out invoices

Monica Shah Connections

Revenue Breakthrough

BOV Michelle Dutro
Michelle Dutro Pull Your One Thread and Change your Life (BOV)

Michelle Dutro Pull Your One Thread and Change your Life (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:01 — 86.5MB)

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Michelle Dutro, is a veteran of the military and fire department. She has over 15 years’ experience in preventive medicine, which she emphasizes good health as she works to motivate others to pursue their passions in life with her classes and podcast.

Michelle Dutro Vroom Veer Stories

We swap stories about the Air Force and Michelle interviews Jeff

Michelle tried to changed the military…and then got out early!

Michelle talks about a veer moment after working in sales 15 years

Thinks through all the helper professions and lands on firefighter

Later, realized she’d really rather help people prevent 911 calls

Moved into coaching and preventive medicine, yoga, meditation

Jeff’s one thread right now is a 45-day no alcohol experiment

If you want some free coaching invite Michelle to be a guest on your podcast

Michelle Dutro Links

– Website

Kevin Donlin BOV
Kevin Donlin – Marketing Multipliers (BOV)

Kevin Donlin – Marketing Multipliers (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:02 — 47.7MB)

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Kevin Donlin has been in marketing since 1994, when he sold one of the first ebooks. Since 1998, he’s been a copywriter and marketing advisor, delivering sales gains of more than $1 million on multiple occasions to clients. He’s author or co-author of 5 books, including the new “Marketing Multipliers.

Kevin Donlin Vroom Vroom Veer

A jock in high school; also got highest score in his city college entrance exam

That test score earned him $250 per month; beer money!

Started teaching English in Japan; got to write text books too; created a job

Made Fedex.com in 1994; looked up UPS boxes too and did a little marketing for FedEx

Thought about being a high school teacher; decided it wasn’t for him after subing for two years

Created the Paper Email by printing an email and mailing it to Seth Godin; Seth called!

Marketing Multipliers are a low/no cost tool to greatly increase effectiveness of marketing

Kevin Donlin Connections

Website (Client Cloning System)

BOV Jonathan Harrison
Jonathan Harrison – Video Games Teach Success (BOV)

Jonathan Harrison – Video Games Teach Success (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:04:28 — 88.5MB)

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Jonathan Harrison, MBA, ODCC is the author of Mastering The Game: What Video Games Can Teach Us About Success In Life available in paperback and Kindle on Amazon. He is also an Organizational Development Practitioner, TEDx Speaker, and Podcaster on the topic of life and leadership lessons that can be learned from video games, found on ClassicallyTrained.net.

Jonathan Harrison Vroom Veer Stories

How a rejection from TEDx became not only a book, but ALSO a TEDx talk

Realized that there isn’t “one person” out there in the world who will be your “life” mentor

Found a mosaic of mentors in non-fiction books were better than one person in many ways

How Half-Life 2 uses great game design to subtlety teach the player how to play the game

Jon found that using stories and lessons from video games is a highly engaging method for gamers

Portal 2 CO-OP teaches you about your problem solving preferences, your strengths, your weaknesses.

When Jon started blogging about life lessons from games…traffic blew up!

Jonathan Harrison Links

Jonathan’s Web Site – classicallytrained.net

385 Eric North
Eric North – The Happiness Warrior

Eric North – The Happiness Warrior

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:05 — 71.7MB)

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Eric North is a multiple entrepreneur and lifelong resident of Washington DC. He is the founder and CEO of Performance Rejuvenation Center, Washington, DCs premier anti-aging clinic established in 2011. All of his business endeavors focus on helping people feel better, live healthier, and promote inner happiness.

Eric is a strong proponent for the value of transformational living in creating greater health and happiness in our lives. He’s known professionally as his alter-ego The Happiness Warrior, with a mission to increase happiness in our own lives and the lives of others.Eric is an avid fitness enthusiast, aging advocate, writer, entrepreneur, tv personality, and motivational figure.

Eric North Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Eric’s Journey to Happiness Warrior

Eric discussed his journey from being a frustrated high achiever to becoming a happiness warrior and entrepreneur. He shared his transition from owning a longevity clinic to embracing the role of a motivational speaker and content creator, with a significant following on Instagram. Eric emphasized the importance of happiness and purpose, especially as he ages, and highlighted his mission to inspire others to live fulfilling lives.

Reflections on Happiness and Impact

Jeffery and Eric discussed their personal experiences and perspectives on life, happiness, and the importance of making a positive impact on others. Jeffery shared his realization about his health after observing his peers in the military, while Eric reflected on his rebellious youth, love for adventure, and the influence of his aunt, who was known for her ability to make people feel happy and comfortable. Both emphasized the value of laughter, listening, and genuine connections in enhancing happiness and customer service interactions.

Emotional Control and Personal Growth

Eric and Jeffery discussed the importance of maintaining control over emotions and the impact of being overly aggressive or sensitive. They agreed that awareness of one’s behavior is crucial to avoid repeating negative patterns and to recognize the potential for personal growth. They also touched on the challenges faced by introverted individuals and the value of constructive criticism in personal development.

Reflection and Forgiveness in Growth

Jeffery and Eric discussed the importance of reflection and forgiveness in personal growth. They explored different perspectives on forgiveness, including a new interpretation of Jesus’ words on the cross. Eric shared his experience with a difficult relationship 25 years ago with a sociopath, which he eventually escaped and learned valuable lessons from. Both agreed that asking for help is crucial for personal development and that challenging experiences can lead to growth and self-discovery.

Energy Vampires and Self-Discipline

Jeffery and Eric discussed personal experiences with energy vampires and the importance of self-discipline. Eric shared his belief that self-discipline is a form of self-love, emphasizing the need for consistency in creating better habits. They briefly mentioned a TV show called “What We Do in the Shadows” which features an energy vampire character.

Morning Routine and Mindset

Eric shared his morning routine and philosophy on managing fear, emphasizing the importance of daily affirmations and maintaining a non-fear-based mindset. He discussed his exercise routine, which includes walking before sunrise and incorporating home workouts like inclined push-ups and stretching. Eric highlighted the benefits of simple, free exercises like shoulder rolls for reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. Jeffery shared his experience of improving his diet after retirement and agreed on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Balanced Diet and Healthy Eating

Eric discussed his disciplined and balanced diet, which includes fresh, locally-sourced produce from farmers’ markets and occasional fine dining. He emphasized the importance of proper food preparation and eating according to daily needs rather than strict macros or calorie counting. Eric shared his rule of incorporating green vegetables into every other meal to promote satiety and healthy digestion, and he noted that intermittent fasting, while popular, may not be practical or effective for everyone.

Healthier Diets and Meditation Practices

Eric and Jeffery discussed the health impacts of different diets, with Eric emphasizing the importance of food quality and the benefits of pasta made from healthier European wheat. They also talked about alcohol consumption, with Eric sharing his personal experience of reducing alcohol intake due to its negative effects on health and sleep. The conversation concluded with Eric describing his nighttime meditation practice, which involves breathing exercises and a routine of reflecting on the day and expressing gratitude.

Intuitive Health and Gratitude Practices

Eric and Jeffery discussed the importance of intuitive health practices and the benefits of breathing through the nose, with Eric sharing his experience of using nose clips while exercising. They explored the concept of gratitude and mindfulness, with Eric mentioning his Hawaiian heritage and a heart-hugging exercise he demonstrated on television. The conversation concluded with Eric encouraging listeners to connect with him on Instagram (@thehappinesswarriorofficial) and expressing his desire to build a community of happiness warriors, including initiatives for children.

Connections

Website

384 Diane Kahn
Diane Kahn – Humans of San Quentin

Diane Kahn – Humans of San Quentin

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:06 — 67.7MB)

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Diane Kahn, is a founding member and Executive Director of Humans of San Quentin.During the last seven years of volunteering at San Quentin to help incarcerated men get high school diplomas, Diane has been deeply moved by the vulnerability and emotional intelligence shown by the incarcerated humans she works with. Diane feels a tremendous responsibility to share their stories with the outside world. The Humans of San Quentin. team shares the lives of thousands of people inside prison with the outside world through letters, art, and poetry. Through face-to-face interviews with people in prisons around the world, incarcerated people feel seen, heard and a part of the outside world. Each time a story is shared, it transforms the lives of the prisoners. Diane has an unstoppable dedication to helping victims and offenders heal and transform their lives.

Diane Kahn Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Humans of San Quentin Project

Diane Kahn discussed her work with Humans of San Quentin, a website inspired by Humans of New York that shares stories and art from incarcerated individuals. She highlighted the contributions of team members inside San Quentin, including Bruce Fowler as art director and Alex as poetry director. Diane explained that the project began when Juan, a journalist she met while teaching, expressed his desire to share the stories of incarcerated men. The website aims to shed light on the human experiences and conditions within prisons, with the goal of reaching a wide audience.

Rehabilitation and Reintegration Challenges

Diane shared her experience teaching at San Quentin prison for seven years, where she discovered that most inmates are ordinary people who made mistakes early in life, contrary to media portrayals. She described how her interactions with inmates broke down stereotypes and highlighted the need for better rehabilitation and reintegration programs, such as work release and exposure to freedom, which are lacking in the US compared to countries like Norway. The conversation also touched on the challenges former inmates face upon release, including the difficulty of finding employment due to their criminal records, and the lack of a clear plan for reintegration into society.

Empathy and Change for Humans Struggling

Diane and Jeffery discussed the challenges faced by individuals with nowhere to go, emphasizing the need for change and support. They shared personal stories, including Freddie Lopez’s experience of overcoming prejudice due to tattoos and finding employment in prison, which highlighted the importance of giving people opportunities to express themselves. Jeffery also shared insights about body language and cultural perceptions of tattoos, emphasizing the need for understanding and empathy. They agreed on the significance of listening to and sharing these stories as a step toward change.

Inmate Education and Healing Programs

Diane shared stories about incarcerated individuals who are actively writing and publishing, including a journalist who writes for the New York Times. She highlighted the unique opportunities at San Quentin prison for education and rehabilitation compared to other prisons. Diane also discussed a program called “raw crime” where inmates share intimate details about their crimes, which Jeffery supported as an important part of healing. Finally, Diane described a powerful “Day of Healing” event at San Quentin where victims of violent crimes shared their stories, and mentioned a program called Ahimsa Collective that facilitates victim-offender dialogues.

Transformative Power of Victim Dialogues

Diane shared her experience conducting interviews for a podcast focused on victim-offender dialogues, highlighting the powerful stories of individuals involved in these conversations, including Elle, who forgave her daughter’s killer. She emphasized the transformative potential of these dialogues and the efforts of victims like Elle in advocating for prison reform. Jeffery expressed admiration for Elle’s courage and the broader impact of such dialogues, while Diane noted the disparities in sentencing and incarceration practices in the U.S. compared to other countries.

Preventing Crime Through Community Support

Diane and Jeffery discussed the challenges of forgiveness, particularly in the context of Alan’s upcoming release from prison and the emotional impact on Elle. They explored the systemic issues contributing to mass shootings and incarceration, including the lack of early intervention and support for individuals with learning difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma. They agreed that implementing school-based monitoring, community wellness centers, and better support systems for families could help prevent future offenses and create safer communities.

Generational Parenting and Criminal Justice

Jeffery and Diane discussed generational differences in parenting and childhood experiences, particularly regarding bullying and independence. They agreed that while today’s children are more sensitive and have access to more information through the internet, they face steeper challenges after high school. Diane shared that she runs Humans of San Quentin, which tells stories of people in the criminal justice system, and expressed interest in doing more speaking engagements and podcasts with formerly incarcerated individuals. They agreed to meet again in about 6 months to continue their conversation.

Connections

Website

The Prison Podcast (on Spotify)

383 Stephen Seidel
Stephen Seidel – Shift the Script to Write your Own Story

Stephen Seidel – Shift the Script to Write your Own Story

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:11 — 68.1MB)

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Stephen Seidel is a TEDx keynote speaker, media expert, and brand strategist who helps entrepreneurs, startups, and HR leaders drive cultural alignment and authentic leadership. As founder of the award-winning Seidel Agency and coach to changemakers, he draws on 25 years in PR, media, and marketing to help leaders rewrite their stories, leveraging connection as currency. A best-selling author, podcast creator, and co-founder of the men’s collective Gents Journey, Stephen blends humor, heart, and actionable tools to inspire resilient teams and lasting change.

Steve Seidel Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Journey of Growth and Legacy

Stephen discussed his multifaceted career, including his work with the Seidel Agency, which has collaborated with Coca-Cola, and his creation of Gents Journey, a platform aimed at fostering vulnerability and connection among men through a card deck called the Journey Deck. He shared his personal journey, including a TEDx talk on using grief as a tool for growth and his involvement in a fatherhood initiative where he witnessed a transformative moment of forgiveness. Stephen emphasized the importance of a morning routine and leaving a legacy, while Jeffery highlighted the value of consistent growth and prioritizing tasks.

Journey of Connection and Resilience

Stephen shared his personal journey, highlighting his upbringing in Utica, New York, and later Philadelphia, where he grew up in a divorced family environment. He described his role as a mediator between his parents, which shaped his identity as a connector. Stephen discussed his struggles with people-pleasing and the importance of self-love and boundary-setting. He emphasized the values instilled in him by his upbringing, including hard work, community, and resilience, and how these influenced his professional life and approach to fatherhood.

Journey to Storytelling Agency

Stephen shared his personal journey, explaining how his engineering background and people-pleasing nature led him to create an agency that connects individuals with their stories and partners. He discussed his experiences at CB West High School, Penn State, and his career at Motorola, while also touching on personal challenges such as hearing issues and a difficult childhood. Despite these obstacles, Stephen found confidence through his fraternity experiences and continued to pursue his passion for creative expression.

Career Transition to Entertainment

Stephen shared his career journey, which included acting in a Saturday Night Live sketch that was cut from the show, working as an industrial engineer at a semiconductor fab, and eventually transitioning to entertainment and creating his own YouTube agency. He discussed his experiences with emerging technologies and his involvement in various projects, including a YouTube show and a foundation created in memory of a 9/11 victim.

Journey Through Pandemic Challenges

Stephen shared his personal journey, including relocating to Lexington, Kentucky, during the COVID-19 pandemic while caring for his mother who had stage 4 cancer and a one-month-old baby. He described how he ran his virtual agency from a laundry room, using a makeshift setup with a logo on his shoulder. Through this challenging period, Stephen discovered the importance of self-love and the need to connect with others, leading him to join a meditation group called Meditation Hillsanga.

Journey to Authentic Connection

Stephen shared his personal journey of finding happiness by reconnecting with his true self and building a supportive community of entrepreneurs and fathers. He discussed the creation of a card deck with conversation starters to help men connect on a deeper level and address mental health issues. The discussion included examples of questions from the deck, such as “How do you show appreciation?” and explored various ways to express gratitude, including handwritten notes and voice messages.

Finding Growth in Adversity

Stephen and Jeffery discussed the importance of maintaining relationships and showing appreciation to loved ones. They explored how negative experiences can lead to positive outcomes, using personal examples to illustrate this concept. The conversation touched on the theme of love and connection, with Stephen sharing his emotional connection to the Philadelphia Eagles and his late parents. They agreed that focusing on the silver linings in life and finding teaching moments in adversity can lead to personal growth and meaningful experiences.

Mindfulness Practices for Anxiety Management

Stephen shared his personal journey with mindfulness and meditation practices, including weekly sessions led by Pat Croci and the use of three-word mantras to stay present. He discussed how these practices helped him manage anxiety and negative self-talk, particularly through techniques like naming internal voices and engaging in creative activities like morning pages and artist dates. Stephen emphasized the importance of intentionality in his work and meetings, where he incorporates self-sharing and setting intentions to stay focused and adaptable.

Productivity and Wellness Strategies

Stephen and Jeffery discussed personal productivity and wellness habits inspired by Tim Ferriss’s books. They shared strategies like structuring morning routines, prioritizing important tasks before checking emails, and incorporating healthy habits such as hot baths, lemon water, and moderate alcohol consumption. Jeffery mentioned an app called “The Way” for meditation and expressed interest in exploring these practices further.

Meditation and Community Sharing

Jeffery and Stephen discussed meditation practices, including a guided candle meditation app and the Japanese concept of Kintsugi, which emphasizes beauty in imperfection. Stephen shared details about his weekly meditation group, which meets on Sundays at 11am on Zoom, and invited Jeffery to join. They also discussed Stephen’s website and media platform for sharing personal stories, as well as his community for men called GentsJourney.co. The conversation concluded with Stephen offering to promote Jeffery’s upcoming podcast episode on LinkedIn, and Jeffery warning against sharing personal phone numbers online.

Connections

Agency: TheSeidelAgency.com

Coaching: StephenSeidel.com/Media

Men’s Group: GentsJourney.co/join

TEDx Talk: https://rebrand.ly/seidelspeaking

Social Media handles are @StephenSeidel and @TheSeidelAgency + @GentsJourneyco across all platforms

www.LinkedIn.com/in/StephenSeidel

BOV J V Crum
JV Crum III – Conscious Millionaire (BOV)

JV Crum III – Conscious Millionaire (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:44 — 66.9MB)

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J V Crum III helps entrepreneurs grow six and seven figure conscious businesses that combine making high profits with making a positive impact. He is a speaker, coach, Huffington Post Columnist, and best-selling author of “Conscious Millionaire: Grow Your Business by Making a Difference.” He hosts the top-ranking Conscious Millionaire Podcast and is Founder of ConsciousMillionaire.com, a global coaching and wealth product business. He holds an MBA, JD, Masters in Psychology, and has built and sold successful companies.

JV Crum III Vroom Veer Stories

JV went to High School in Tokyo?  No wait…that’s not right…but funny!

Great story about how NOT to over gift to your best customers during the holidays.

Turns out JV was not born a seven figure conscious entrepreneur…money was tight

When JV was 5 years old, he decided the best way to make sure he had enough candy, was to become a millionaire

At age 25, he had achieved his dream/plan that he hatched at age 5…he was a millionaire!

Realized he felt empty…he had all the money and the stuff, but something was missing.

Went on a 15 year journey of growth and self discovery…learned helping people was more meaningful than money

JV Crum III Links

Conscious Millionaire Website:http://consciousmillionaire.com/

BOV Kristin Thompson
Kristin Thompson – Rocking and Laughing to Success (BOV)

Kristin Thompson – Rocking and Laughing to Success (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:52 — 60.3MB)

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Kristin Thompson’s popularity has skyrocketed as she’s gained recognition in recent years as a top speaker and coach helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs, coaches and consultants grow their business by speaking their mission and serving their purpose in a way that naturally transitions more prospects into paying clients.  Using speaking as her top marketing strategy Kristin has built a multiple six-figure business working 3 days a week, and she wants to show you how to do the same.

Kristin Thompson Vroom Veer Stories

Made a conscious choice with her husband to veer away from the corporate job to raise a family

Found an amazing opportunity earning great money as a speaker…with no speaking experience (gulp)

Learned she really loved speaking and made it the foundation of her business

Burnt out her adrenals and learned she had to invest in self care

When you are over tired you don’t notice until AFTER you get some good sleep

Told her assistant NOT to book her lunch break, even if she tells her too

Great story about making more money and not feeling “the rush” of victory

Kristin Thompson Connections

Kristin’s Web Site

Phillip Carson BOV
Phillip Carson – You Don’t Need Another Drug (BOV)

Phillip Carson – You Don’t Need Another Drug (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:04 — 67.5MB)

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Phillip Carson, President of Carson Natural Health, LLC is a Pharmacist who thinks outside the box of traditional medicine. He believes in helping people find natural alternatives and integrative nutritional solutions to their health problems. He is committed to leading people to finding the root cause of their health problems and not just treating the symptoms. Phillip is passionate about encouraging and teaching people how to live more balanced, healthier and vibrant lives. He believes in equipping people with the knowledge to make the right choices for optimal health.

Phillip Carson Vroom Veer Stories

Veered away from Air Force ROTC in college due to a “bad” superior

How CoQ10 saved the life of a patient who’s doctor sent him to hospice (to die)

Veered away from a stressful job and had to spend years repairing the damage

Any diet you choose should allow you to comply most of the time and still cheat a little

Jeff recently learned that the fillers in supplements may be causing an allergic reaction

Chinese medicine intends to work “WITH” the body’s natural processes

Jeff learned to take responsibility for his own health, with the help of experts

Phillip Carson Links

Dr. Phil’s Web Site (get your free energy guide)

BOV Matt Miller
Matt Miller – We grow in the Valleys of Life (BOV)

Matt Miller – We grow in the Valleys of Life (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 38:39 — 53.1MB)

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Matt Miller spent the first 9 years of his career as an Air Force pilot, before entering the corporate world to work at both Abbott Laboratories and Valassis. While a top performer for both companies, his long term desire was to start a business and be his own boss. A good friend one day mentioned the gum ball machines he and his young daughters owned, and that conversation began a 10 year business quest that has brought Matt’s franchise company, School Spirit Vending, to the cutting edge of both the vending and school fundraising industries. Today, the School Spirit Vending franchise is helping professionals across the country develop more freedom and security, while supporting local schools at the same time.
Matt Miller Vroom Veer Stories

Achieved a big win at a sales job, ranked #2 in sales for the company.
Boss increased his sale quota by over 80% and set him up to fail; cost him $80k
Matt was denied a payday loan, you don’t even need a credit score to get a payday loan
The hard part about driving a C-5 Galaxy in the Air Force is on the ground, not in the air.
There is no growth at the peak of the mountain…it’s rocks and snow.  In the valley there is lots of growth.
A business idea starts as buying a gum ball machine on E-bay for 35 bucks.  Now it’s a franchise.
Business systems that support your life, not a life that supports your business

Matt Miller

Links


School Spirit Vending

Free E-Book

382 John Kippen
John Kippen – What Makes you Different is your Superpower

John Kippen – What Makes you Different is your Superpower

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:58 — 81.6MB)

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John Kippen is an entrepreneur, professional magician, speaker, resilience and empowerment coach and published author. 

John was dealt a bad blow in 2002 when he was diagnosed with a large benign brain tumor. Its removal, although successful, left him with permanent facial paralysis which stopped his forward momentum forcing him into hiding for more than 12 years.

As John hit bottom, he rediscovered his childhood love for performing magic and storytelling . Now filled with passion and hope , he discovered that his facial difference had become  his greatest superpower.

This new mindset gave John the strength to live life with joy and become a sought after resilience and empowerment coach who uses the lessons and methodologies he learned overcoming his adversity to inspire and assist his clients to get out of their own way and live their best lives.

His two mottos are

 “ Being Different is your Superpower!” and

 “Feed your Heart with your Art”

John Kippen Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

John’s Journey Through Health Challenges

John shared his personal story, beginning with his childhood in Los Angeles and his education at a private school where he became involved in theater. He described his early career in computer consulting, which he started in the 1980s after setting up a computer lab at Cal State University, Northridge. John then explained how his health issues began in 2002 with hearing problems, specifically difficulty hearing men’s voices, followed by dizziness a month later, leading him to undergo an MRI despite his claustrophobia.

Brain Tumor Discovery Experience

John shared his experience of discovering a brain tumor through medical imaging in 2002. After getting X-rays at a hospital and taking them to an ENT specialist, he was referred to the House Ear Clinic where a surgeon diagnosed a 4.5 centimeter acoustic neuroma brain tumor that was killing him. John emphasized the importance of having someone present during medical consultations to help remember details and ask questions, as he found himself struggling to recall important information after the shock of the diagnosis.

Brain Surgery and Recovery Journey

John shared his experience undergoing brain surgery, describing the pre-surgery preparation and the challenging recovery process. He recalled being confronted by his anesthesiologist about insurance coverage just before the procedure, and waking up to find his face paralyzed, which affected his mother’s reaction to his condition. John also mentioned developing a spinal fluid leak that required a second surgery after returning home.

Embracing Difference Through Curiosity

John shared his personal experience of hiding for 12 years after brain surgery, during which he isolated himself from social activities and work. He described a pivotal moment at a restaurant when a young boy asked about his face, which inspired John to reflect on how children’s natural curiosity and lack of judgment differ from adults’ reactions. John used this experience as the basis for his TED Talk about treating people who are different with respect and compassion.

Transforming Challenges into Magic Performances

John shared his journey of using his personal story of brain surgery and facial paralysis to enhance his magic performances. He explained how he transformed his condition into a storytelling asset by incorporating it into his act and sharing personal experiences with audiences. John also described how his story resonated with others facing medical challenges, including a specific instance where his performance inspired a man named Ron to fight his cancer diagnosis.

John’s Magical Trebek Encounter

John shared his experience writing a book titled “Playing the Hand You Are Dealt” and offered listeners a PDF version if they listen to the end of the show. He recounted performing magic for Alex Trebek at Trebek’s 75th birthday party, where he created a special show with a Jeopardy theme. After the performance, John shared a meaningful conversation with Trebek about the impact of Trebek’s work, which left Trebek emotionally moved as he had rarely received thanks for his life’s work.

Empathy and Serendipitous Opportunities

John and Jeffery discussed their personal experiences with unexpected opportunities to help others. John shared his journey as an empath, describing how he initially resisted this ability but now views it as a way to help people. Jeffery recounted a story about meeting an older couple at a bar who shared a heartbreaking story about losing their son, which led to a meaningful connection. Both participants reflected on how these experiences felt like the universe bringing them into situations where they could provide comfort or guidance to others.

Building Resilience Through Empowerment

John discussed his approach as a resilience and empowerment coach, emphasizing his focus on helping people overcome adversity and develop personal insights rather than providing direct answers. He explained his coaching methodology involves building rapport, asking leading questions, and guiding clients to discover their own realizations, which he believes is key to effective coaching. John shared his personal experience of healing and developing a system to help others build resilience, describing it as the ability to quickly recover from setbacks.

I’m Possible” Dream Coaching Method

John discussed his coaching method called the “I’m Possible” approach, which focuses on helping clients break down dreams into achievable micro-dreams to overcome limitations and find personal happiness. He emphasized the importance of dream work in his practice, noting that many people struggle because they’re living someone else’s dreams rather than their own. The conversation concluded with both participants agreeing on the importance of examining how people contribute to their own unwanted life conditions.

Jamie Lee Curtis Mentorship Journey

John shared his story of meeting Jamie Lee Curtis through his IT work and how she became his mentor, leading to her appearing in his documentary “John’s Ultimate Illusion” which won awards at film festivals. John also discussed his coaching practice at KippenCoaching.com and mentioned his best-selling book for which Jamie Lee Curtis wrote the foreword.

Connections

JohnKippen.com

KippenCoaching.com

Best of VVV Travis Chappell
Travis Chappell – Build Your Network (BOV)

Travis Chappell – Build Your Network (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:06 — 46.8MB)

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One of my big “Whys” for doing this podcast is because it allows me to chat with amazing folks who I would otherwise never meet.  Travis definitely fits in the category of “amazing people”!

Travis Chappell is a direct sales expert who has built teams for several sales organizations over a few different industries and is also active in the real estate market. More recently he decided to pursue his passion of helping others and founded Build Your Network, a podcast dedicated to helping professionals grow their inner circle.

If you have ever wondered how to meet the influential people in your industry, if you have ever been frustrated because you just aren’t moving forward in your career as quickly as you thought you would, if you don’t lack ambition or a thirst for learning, but just can’t seem to get ahead, then look no further than Build Your Network.

If you believe that who you know is more important than what you know and that purposeful and persistent networking is crucial to accomplishing your goals in any area of life, then this is the podcast for you.

Three days a week, we will be having a conversation with a person who is considered to be a leader and professional in their field. We will hear stories from them on how certain connections with people in their lives led to accomplishing specific goals; we’ll get the best tips and tricks on how to network effectively, gather their thoughts on the importance of networking, and much more! Each episode is geared toward you, the aspiring professional, and helps you to uncover the secrets of networking in order to push you to the next level of success in your life.

Travis Chappell Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Lancaster; moved to Frenso briefly then back to Lancaster

How he ended up moving back into the house he grew up in

Volunteered to run John Lee Dumas’ both at Podcast Movement

Landed Chris Guillebeau as a podcast guest because he helped JLD

His ebook “Groupology” describes how to be giving, patient and genuine

Building your inner circle is a long play game; not a quick fix short cut

Using facebook groups to be genuine, giving and patient works when done right

Travis Chappell Links

Website

381 Tracy Gapin MD
Tracy Gapin, MD – Start your Peak Performance Journey Today

Tracy Gapin, MD – Start your Peak Performance Journey Today

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:40 — 71.5MB)

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Tracy Gapin, MD, FACS, is a renowned expert in men’s health optimization and longevity, with over 25 years of experience as a board-certified urologist. He founded the Gapin Institute to help high- performing individuals, including entrepreneurs, executives, and athletes, achieve peak performance through personalized health programs. Dr. Gapin integrates advanced diagnostics, epigenetics,hormone therapy, and wearable technology to monitor and transform his clients’ health, focusing on sustainable, measurable outcomes.

A thought leader and author of bestsellers Male 2.0 and Codes of Longevity, Dr. Gapin has been featured on NBC, Entrepreneur Magazine, and at Dave Asprey’s Biohacking Conference. He is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging, the Age Management Medical Group, and the International Peptide Society.

Tracy Galpin, MD Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Journey from Doctor to Burnout

Tracy shared his journey from knowing he wanted to be a doctor in 4th grade to completing urology residency training, during which he made the decision to specialize in urology after his third year of medical school. he described the intense 6-year surgical training period, including working 120 hours per week, and his subsequent career in a busy Sarasota practice. However, Tracy eventually encountered burnout and disillusionment halfway through his career, which led him to seek a different path.

Healthcare System’s Impact on Doctors

Jeffery and Tracy discussed the challenges faced by healthcare professionals due to the influence of hospital systems and insurance companies, which often prioritize bureaucratic processes over clinical judgment. Jeffery shared a revealing conversation with a rheumatologist who expressed frustration with the system, highlighting the disconnect between insurance policies and medical advice. Tracy agreed, emphasizing that doctors are often caught between providing patient care and adhering to corporate demands, while the financial security of their positions keeps them from leaving the system.

Wellness Entrepreneurship Transition Journey

Tracy discussed his transition from traditional medicine to a focus on wellness and longevity, driven by a personal health crisis and newfound passion for preventive healthcare. He described the challenges of combining clinical training in areas like epigenetics and functional medicine with the business aspects of entrepreneurship, including marketing and building a cash-based practice. Tracy emphasized the importance of financial preparation and his wife’s support during this significant career shift.

Overcoming Fear in Life Decisions

Tracy and Jeffery discussed the challenges of making significant life decisions, particularly how fear of the unknown can paralyze individuals. Tracy shared his journey of regaining certainty and conviction, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness once a decision is made. Jeffery highlighted that making a decision often feels like jumping off a cliff but, in reality, it’s not as daunting as it seems, as one can always return to a previous state if necessary. They also briefly touched on Tracy’s work with the Gappen Institute and Jeffery’s health journey, which led him to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Personalized Health: Beyond Traditional Approaches

Jeffery and Tracy discussed the limitations of traditional healthcare and the importance of advanced testing for optimal health. They explored the concept of epigenetics, explaining how lifestyle, diet, and environment can influence genetic expression. Tracy emphasized the need for personalized health approaches based on genetic markers and individual needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. They also touched on the role of hormones, gut health, and metabolic markers in overall wellness and longevity.

Longevity and Muscle Growth Balance

Tracy and Jeffery discussed the science of longevity, focusing on the balance between muscle growth and longevity genes like mTOR. Tracy explained that while rapamycin shows promise in extending mouse lifespan, human studies are lacking, and the key to longevity likely lies in optimizing healthspan through factors like gut health, inflammation, and hormone levels rather than seeking a single “magic molecule.” They agreed that the optimal approach to mTOR regulation likely involves cycling between anabolic and longevity phases, with healthy protein intake and muscle maintenance being crucial components.

Scientific Health Information Discussion

Jeffery and Tracy discussed Rhonda Patrick’s thorough and research-based approach to sharing health information, contrasting her with other influencers who lack credentials and proper scientific backing. They also talked about Jeffery’s experience with Moringa supplements and their dosage, and Jeffery shared Tim Ferriss’s anecdote about how increasing protein intake, particularly from grass-fed steak, improved a friend’s testosterone levels and sexual performance. Tracy noted the importance of distinguishing between anecdotal evidence and scientifically backed information when discussing health topics.

Testosterone and Micronutrient Importance

Tracy explained the critical role of testosterone in men, emphasizing its importance for cognitive function, bone health, metabolism, and cardiovascular health, contrary to common misconceptions. He highlighted that low testosterone is linked to an increased risk of early heart disease and mortality, while optimal levels can reduce these risks. Tracy also discussed the importance of micronutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are often underappreciated but crucial for maintaining health, and he recommended high-quality multivitamins for optimal nutrition.

Sleep: The Key to Recovery

Jeffery and Tracy discussed the importance of sleep as a fundamental aspect of health, highlighting its role in muscle repair, hormone production, immune function, and memory consolidation. Tracy emphasized that many people underestimate the significance of sleep, noting that even those who believe they sleep well might not be getting enough deep sleep, which is crucial for recovery. They also touched on how poor sleep can hinder physical fitness gains, as muscle repair and growth occur during sleep, and suggested using wearable devices to monitor sleep quality for better understanding and improvement.

Wearable Devices for Sleep and Stress Tracking

Tracy and Jeffery discussed the importance of tracking sleep and stress using wearable devices, with Tracy emphasizing that sleep quality can be accurately measured by rings, which are more reliable than watches or bands. They explored how tracking metrics like heart rate variability (HRV) can provide insights into stress levels, using devices like the Morpheus or Polar H10 chest strap. Tracy highlighted that alcohol significantly impacts sleep quality and stress levels, often masked by individuals who underestimate its effects. They agreed that data from wearables can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and motivation to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Tracy’s Peak Performance Coaching Services

Tracy discussed his work as a former urologist and current peak performance coach, offering remote services nationwide. He shared details about his website, gapininstitute.com/launch, which provides free resources including a health handbook, peptide guide, and book. Tracy clarified that his services are cash-based and not covered by insurance, though HSA funds can be used. 

Connections

The Galpin Institute

Kathy Fettke – Retire Rich w/ Rentals (BOV)

Kathy Fettke – Retire Rich w/ Rentals (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:03 — 56.8MB)

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Kathy Fettke is the CEO of Real Wealth Network and best selling author of Retire Rich with Rentals. She is an active real estate investor, licensed real estate agent, and former mortgage broker, specializing in helping people build multi-million dollar real estate portfolios that generate passive monthly cash flow for life. With a passion for researching real estate market cycles, Kathy is a frequent guest expert on CNN, CNBC, Fox, Bloomberg, NPR, CBS MarketWatch and the Wall Street Journal. She was also named among the “Top 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs” by Goldman Sachs two years in a row.
Kathy Fettke The Real Wealth Show
Kathy hosts The Real Wealth Show, a featured podcast on iTunes with listeners in 27 different countries. Her company, Real Wealth Network, offers free resources and cutting edge education for beginning and experienced real estate investors. She’s passionate about teaching others how to create “real wealth,” which she defines as having both the time and the money to live life on your terms.
Kathy Fettke Vroom Veer Stories

Kathy admitted that she hung out with the Stoners in High School…yay stoners!
Visited Switzerland for a year before attended college, nobody drank or used drugs!
Gained a real appreciation for the US education system and got straight A's in college
Was able to intern in television at CNN and the like and was hired to a San Francisco Affiliate
Worked in television until she quit to become a stay at home mom
Big Veer, her husband was told he had six months to live…Kathy needed a plan to make money
She had a radio show, and decided to sell adverting…that didn't really work
She re-phrased the offer as a co-hosting opportunity, and that worked for a nice tidy sum
The show was such a success the co-host asked Kathy help him sell all the mortgages…so she got a mortgage license
This all led to creating the “REAL” wealth network, which is free to join and learn how to start investing in real estate

Kathy Fettke Links
Real Wealth Network

Robert Klinck – Protect your IP (BOV)

Robert Klinck – Protect your IP (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:13:16 — 67.1MB)

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Robert Klinck (aka “Bobby”) is an intellectual property attorney, who helps entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators harness the power of their intellectual property rights and reduce exposure to lawsuits or brand challenges in the marketplace.  Bobby prides himself on making the complex issues related to intellectual property understandable for non-lawyers. He has published two books about intellectual property law.  The Entrepreneur’s IP Planning Playbook and Patent Litigation Primer. He is currently working on a more ambitious project – a book to provide entrepreneurs with an overview of how to craft an intellectual property strategy from start to finish. Bobby has his law degree cum laude from Harvard Law School.
Robert Klinck Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up on the Texas-Mexico boarder; Dad ran a drug store
More academic than athletic but played all the sports up to his Freshman year
Veered away from a double-major undergrad degree; finished a humanities degree in 3 years
Accepted to Harvard Law school mostly based off his standardized test scores
Culture shock; moving from south Texas to Harvard; he felt more than a little out of place
Well placed law clerk position working for a famous judge while still in Law School
Worked in corporate law for a brief period; knew right away it wasn’t for him
Became a federal prosecutor in Arkansas; got to work cases within months
Started working for a start-up law practice with 2 partners; didn’t end well
Created Klinck LLC to help entrepreneurs plan for intellectual property from the start

Robert Klinck Links


Robert’s Web Site

Social Media
Twitter – @BobbyKlinck
LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/robertklinck

Orion Talmay
Orion Talmay Get Inspired and Live Out Loud (BOV)

Orion Talmay Get Inspired and Live Out Loud (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:39 — 45.6MB)

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Orion Talmay is a love Coach and an international Speaker.  She works with successful high achievers. Orion helps unleash feminine power and become a magnet for conscious relationships and love. She founded Orion’s Method.  Orion also hosts the popular podcast Stellar Life. She helps women to truly love themselves, elevate confidence, ignite passion and create a sense of freedom. Orion’s Method combines the physical, mental, sensual and spiritual aspects to create an integrated transformation. Orion traveled the world learning from leading luminaries in personal development, health/wellness, spirituality, relationships, and sexuality.
Orion Talmay Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in the Holy Land of Israel in Sin City of Tel Aviv
Served in the Intelligence Unit of the Israel Defense Forces; learned discipline
Got a job selling cars; didn’t have a driver’s license-felt bored
Found a travel guidebook for Japan; started highlighting and making plans
Went to Japan for a 3 week trip; stayed for 3.5 years travelling all over Japan
Slowly lulled into an abusive relationship; fought depression after her escape
Finally found transformation during a Tony Robins Date with Destiny
Learned her energy was more masculine than feminine; learned to embrace the Divine Feminine

Orion Talmay Links


Stellar Life Podcast

Orion’s Method Website

Eliot Wagonheim BOV
Eliot Wagonheim – Fire, Aim, …Ready (BOV)

Eliot Wagonheim – Fire, Aim, …Ready (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:20 — 51.6MB)

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Eliot Wagonheim selected as a Maryland Super Lawyer who SmartCEO Magazine named a Legal Elite “go-to” business lawyer and a 2016 Center of Influence award winner. He’s the author of the Fire, Aim…Ready ebook series which teaches business people to maximize their potential and sleep better at night.
Eliot Wagonheim Vroom Veer Stories

Nearly died at age 12 after being stabbed at a bus stop
A nerd friend spent a month bringing him home work so he could keep up in class
Science teacher brought class to him while he was recovering
Law school was cut throat and not fun; but he made through
Spent 3 years helping his dad computerize and modernize his private practice
Spent 6 years learning the language of construction law
Started current law firm after a friend referred him because he didn’t read Eliot’s book

Eliot Wagonheim Links

Website
Facebook
Twitter @Wagonheim

380 Kevin Murphy
Kevin Murphy – Learn to Create Art without Limits

Kevin Murphy – Learn to Create Art without Limits

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:42 — 79.4MB)

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Kevin Murphy is a master illustrator, portrait artist, and art educator with over 30 years of experience. His career began in 1992 creating commissioned works for National Geographic, LucasArts, Barnes & Noble, Sega, and even the Rolling Stones’ Bridges to Babylon tour.

In 2001, Kevin transitioned into portraiture and later founded the Art Academy to make professional-level training accessible to everyone.

Today, Kevin leads Evolve Artist, an online painting program studied in over 70 countries. What sets his approach apart is a clear, fundamentals-first method that teaches realistic painting like a science—not guesswork. Students of all ages learn to paint confidently through a self-paced, feedback-supported system that emphasizes results over raw “talent.”

Kevin’s students, including retirees, engineers, and even surgeons, consistently outperform art school graduates with just a fraction of the time typically expected to develop such skills.

Kevin Murphy Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Art Education and Career Evolution

Kevin shared his career journey, highlighting his transition from an untrained artist to a successful professional in illustration, portrait work, and education. He emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication over natural talent, recounting how he built a school and an online resource to provide accessible art education, which has expanded to 23 brick-and-mortar schools across the US and overseas. Kevin explained that the Evolve program, which is entirely online, focuses on providing structured, skill-building assignments with feedback, creating a supportive community for students worldwide.

Breaking the Cycle of Disadvantage

Kevin shared his experiences growing up in a tough neighborhood in the Bronx with three brothers, highlighting how his parents, who were not educated, emphasized the importance of education. He discussed how talent and resources often create a feedback loop, using examples from Malcolm Gladwell’s “Outliers” about hockey players in Canada and quarterbacks, illustrating how early advantages can significantly impact an individual’s development and opportunities. Kevin also mentioned his own challenges in school, which he attributed to his environment and the lack of resources available to him, emphasizing the importance of access to opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Journey From Sports to Art

Kevin shared his family background, highlighting his older brother’s academic and athletic achievements, including his career in computer science and his athletic potential that was derailed by an injury. Kevin discussed his own educational struggles and preference for individual sports like wrestling, which he pursued due to his competitive nature and desire for personal achievement. He reflected on how his interests evolved from wrestling to art, where he found fulfillment in individual pursuits.

Thrill-Seeking Journey to Art

Kevin shared his past experiences of seeking thrill and adventure, leading to multiple concussions and injuries from his youth. He discussed how his high pain threshold and need for excitement led him to engage in risky activities, despite his family’s concerns. As he aged, Kevin’s physical condition deteriorated due to accumulated injuries, and he transitioned from construction work to pursue a career in art.

Kevin’s Journey From Construction to Publishing

Kevin shared his career journey from being a construction worker to becoming a successful book cover illustrator and later a publisher. He described how he taught himself to read and fell in love with science fiction and fantasy, leading him to pursue a career in illustration. Kevin highlighted his notable projects, including working with George R. R. Martin on Game of Thrones and creating a Rolling Stones album cover. He also discussed his experience working with LucasArts on puzzles and toy packaging for Jurassic Park. Kevin’s career transition from freelance illustration to opening his own publishing company was challenging, but he managed to publish over 150 titles before the company was forced to close.

Art School Transition From Publishing

Kevin shared his experience of closing down a struggling publishing company and transitioning to starting an art school. He described how a distribution company’s decision to recall a million books from stores led to financial difficulties, which ultimately forced him to dismantle the publishing business. Despite the challenges, Kevin viewed the experience as a valuable business education that enabled him to later expand his art school and develop an online program with the help of a technical partner.

Value-Driven Business Growth Philosophy

Kevin shared his philosophy on building a successful business, emphasizing the importance of creating value for others rather than focusing solely on financial gain. He described how his art education program, Evolve, has evolved through 18 iterations to provide a frictionless learning experience, constantly improving based on feedback from thousands of students. Kevin explained that his mission is to make art education accessible to anyone who wants to learn, with the belief that if you focus on delivering value, financial success will follow naturally.

Art Education and Success Pathways

Kevin shared his personal journey from growing up in the Bronx to achieving success in the art world, emphasizing his commitment to giving back through education. He described his mission to create a platform that provides a clear path to success for aspiring artists, ensuring they don’t face starvation. Kevin highlighted a student’s inspiring goal of painting grandchildren, illustrating the value of art education beyond career aspirations. He also introduced a special landing page at evolveartist.com/vroom, offering free educational resources and a 9-minute video explaining art fundamentals in an accessible way.

Academic vs. Real-World Art Education

Kevin and Jeffery discussed the disconnect between academic education and real-world experience, particularly in fields like art and business. Kevin shared his personal experience as an educator and artist, highlighting how teaching forced him to better understand and articulate the principles of art. They agreed that practical experience is crucial for mastering a skill, and Kevin expressed his goal of fostering a new generation of artists who would surpass his own abilities.

Connections

Website

Aaron Hendon
Aaron Hendon – Must Knows before you Sell your Home (BOV)

Aaron Hendon – Must Knows before you Sell your Home (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:17 — 50.6MB)

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Aaron Hendon is a Seattle Realtor, real estate investor, author, educator and speaker. He is managing partner of Christine & Company, a Seattle Magazine awarded, Five Star Real Estate Agent, winning team for the past 5 years and individual Rising Star in Seattle Real Estate winner this year.
Bringing together a diverse background and history including transformational leadership, entrepreneurial start ups and traditional cold calling sales, Aaron and his team consistently out perform the local market, selling homes for over 5% more than local market averages.
Born in New York, Aaron graduated SUNY Purchase with a BFA in 1997. Discovering his fine art degree made him eligible to work in the food service industry anywhere in the country. Moving to New Mexico immediately after school, he eventually found his stride, opening a real New York bagel shop in Albuquerque, selling it 9 years later as a business grossing over $1,000,000 annually.
Eventually landing in the Northwest in 2000, he now lives on a small island off the coast of Seattle with his brilliant wife, Kael, his two brilliant children, Leela and Jonah and his adoring, if not exactly brilliant, Golden Doodle, Rozy. He is currently at work on his next book, Real Estate Blind Spots – What People Don’t Know They Don’t Know About Buying and Selling Their Home (and what it costs them).
Aaron Hendon Vroom Veer Stories

Growing up as a weed smokin’ rebel, musician/artsy guy in New York
Got a degree in fine arts which qualified him to work waiting tables nationwide
Learned he loved waiting tables; he could be himself; delight people and get cash!
“THE GUY” who made THE bagels he loved in New York–teaches him how to make bagels
Attends Landmark Forum and finds that it makes life WAY better; starts working for Landmark in sales
100 dials a day selling credit repair services; starts calling realtors for leads
Becomes a Realtor because he can do 100 dials a day; loves it

Aaron Hendon Links
Web Page:  Christine-and-Company.com

379 Pia Mailhot Leichter
Pia Mailhot-Leichter – Creativity is Part of Being Human

Pia Mailhot-Leichter – Creativity is Part of Being Human

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 45:56 — 63.3MB)

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Pia Mailhot-Leichter is a creative partner, best selling author, certified coach, and founder. Her path has been anything but ordinary: a recovering nomad, she’s reported as a journalist in Sri Lanka, graduated summa cum laude from NYU, and worked as an award-winning creative director for some of the biggest brands in the world. Now, as the founder of Kollektiv Studio, she’s uniquely positioned to help people create their wild ventures.

Pia Mailhot-Leichter Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Finding Joy in Creative Work

Jeffery and Pia discussed Pia’s work as a fractional creative director and creative coach in Copenhagen, where she collaborates with “unconventional dreamers” to bring their visions to life. Pia emphasized the importance of finding joy and purpose in one’s work, citing the finite nature of life and the opportunity to create each day anew. They agreed on the value of maintaining optimism and finding joy in life’s journey, with Jeffery referencing Jack Cornfield’s perspective on the duty to be joyful.

Pia’s International Career Journey

Pia shared her background, including growing up in New York City and her extensive travel experiences across various countries. She discussed her education, including studying English at Hunter College and pursuing a master’s in international relations at NYU. Pia described her career path, which included working as a journalist in Sri Lanka and later doing communications work for the UNDP and an NGO called Plan International.

Overcoming Adversity for Academic Success

Pia shared her personal journey, including being kicked out of her house at 17 and struggling financially while attending college. Despite these challenges, she worked hard to achieve academic success, earning multiple cum laude degrees. After completing her master’s, Pia took a contract role at the United Nations Development Program in New York City, though the salary was not sufficient to cover her living expenses.

Cross-Cultural Work Experiences Discussed

Jeffery and Pia discussed their experiences working in Bahrain and Qatar. Pia shared her disappointment at having to sell ad space for an economic documentary in Bahrain instead of pursuing her original goal of making a positive impact through transitional justice work. She realized later that the experience taught her valuable skills in sales and confidence in pitching to high-level executives. Jeffery, who served in the military, noted that frequent relocations and job changes helped him develop problem-solving skills, an attribute that was appreciated by his bosses.

Embracing Change and Personal Growth

Pia and Jeffery discussed the challenges and opportunities that come with change and new experiences. Pia shared her experience of choosing to stay in Copenhagen after a divorce, rather than moving to Paris, after her therapist encouraged her to consider developing a deeper relationship with herself in that place. They explored how moving can sometimes be a way to avoid dealing with personal issues, comparing it to the temporary nature of military assignments. The conversation concluded with Pia emphasizing the importance of making conscious choices about moving, rather than acting on impulse, as a way to gain empowerment and freedom.

Life Changes and Lifestyle Reimagining

Jeffery shared his experience of moving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas after 13 years, driven by a desire for change and the appeal of lower living costs. Pia discussed her own considerations for reimagining her life, particularly given her family commitments, and explored the possibility of designing a lifestyle that balances current and future desires. They both reflected on the importance of making conscious choices and the uncertainty of knowing where they might eventually settle, with Jeffery mentioning the potential of using his Vegas home as a base while exploring other locations temporarily.

Japan Experiences and Climate Adaptations

Pia and Jeffery discussed their experiences in Japan, with Pia sharing her visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, noting the city’s cleanliness and safety, as well as its resemblance to New York in terms of neighborhoods. Jeffery expressed his admiration for Japan’s efficiency and cleanliness, comparing it to a blend of futuristic and retro elements. They also briefly touched on the challenges of adapting to different climates, with Pia mentioning her experience in Sri Lanka and Jeffery reflecting on the changing weather in Michigan and the advantages of living in Vegas.

Narrating Creative Club Audio Book

Jeffery and Pia discussed Pia’s recently released audio book, “Welcome to the Creative Club,” which she narrated herself despite initial self-doubt. Pia shared her creative process, including working with a voice coach and producer, and revealed that she unexpectedly developed a newfound appreciation for the sound of her own voice during the recording process. They also discussed the challenges of listening to oneself speak, with Jeffery sharing his own experience of becoming more comfortable with his voice through podcasting.

Freelance Insights and Crisis Management

Pia discussed her experience as a freelance creative director and branding consultant, emphasizing the fulfillment of working with clients she chooses and the value of relational business connections. She shared insights on managing crises by focusing on response rather than reaction, citing Victor Frankl’s concept of the space between stimulus and response. Jeffery and Pia agreed to stay in touch, with Pia’s upcoming podcast appearance scheduled for Monday morning at 3 AM West Coast time, and Jeffery promised to tag her in the Instagram post and share the Zoom cloud link of their discussion.

Connections

Website

378 Ralph Brewer
Ralph Brewer – Help for Men: Rebuild confidence, Reclaim Masculinity, and Lead from a place of clarity and purpose

Ralph Brewer – Help for Men: Rebuild confidence, Reclaim Masculinity, and Lead from a place of clarity and purpose

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:59 — 61.9MB)

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Ralph Brewer is the founder of Help For Men and creator of Dad Starting Over, two influential platforms that support men navigating divorce, sexless marriages, and modern relationship struggles. He has authored four books—including his best selling, The Dead Bedroom Fix—and is known for combining straight talk with practical guidance to help men rebuild confidence, reclaim masculinity, and lead from a place of clarity and purpose.

Through coaching, online courses, and the global HFM Brotherhood community, Ralph equips men to stop waiting for validation and start taking ownership. His work has been featured in Forbes, NewsNation, and New York Magazine, and his approach is trusted by thousands of men around the world. He speaks directly to men who’ve “done everything right” yet feel lost—and gives them the tools to find their footing again.

Ralph Brewer Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Global Reach and Cultural Differences

Ralph discussed a special offer for Jeffery’s followers at helpformen.com, including a freebie and discounts on coaching and group membership. He explained the organization’s global reach, with the US as the primary market and Australia as the second-largest. They briefly touched on cultural differences in men’s willingness to seek help, with Ralph noting that Spanish and Australian men tend to be more open compared to British and German men.

Baldness Experiences and Embraces

Ralph and Jeffery discussed their experiences with baldness and hair loss. Ralph shared a story about his daughter mistaking an egg for him at a restaurant. They exchanged anecdotes about their hair loss experiences and how they’ve embraced being bald. Jeffery mentioned his military deployment and how he learned to cut his own hair during that time. They both agreed that being bald is easier and more practical than having hair.

Rural Indiana Childhood Experiences

Ralph shared his childhood experiences growing up in rural Indiana, where he spent most of his time after moving from Spain at age three. His mother, who was learning English and driving, and his American military father, who was deployed during the Iraq War, made him stand out in his small town. Ralph discussed his experiences with racism and prejudice, particularly directed at his mother due to her Spanish and Middle Eastern appearance. He also mentioned his fondness for Italy, its culture, and lifestyle, contrasting it with the work-hard-play-hard attitude of the United States.

Bilingual Childhood and Family Roots

Ralph shared his personal background, discussing his childhood experiences growing up in a bilingual household where Spanish was spoken secretly by his parents. He described his father’s difficult family situation and how his father’s best friend’s family became like an extended family to him, providing stability and support. Ralph also explained his mother’s challenging upbringing in post-civil war Spain under Franco’s regime, which left her to care for seven children after her father’s disappearance.

Discovering Infidelity and Divorce Journey

Ralph shared his personal story of discovering his ex-wife’s extramarital affair while on vacation, which led to a difficult divorce process. He described how he initially confronted her about suspicious Facebook messages, only to be met with denial and tears during their single counseling session. Despite his ex-wife’s attempts to convince the counselor that nothing was happening, Ralph’s suspicions persisted, leading him to conduct his own investigation using technology. The experience left him more confused than anything, but ultimately led to the realization that he needed to pursue a divorce.

Divorce and Co-Parenting Challenges

Ralph shared his experience of a sudden divorce after his wife had a three-month affair, which he described as the final straw in a series of family-related issues. He emphasized that while the affair was the catalyst, his wife had been emotionally distancing herself and was ready to leave for some time. Despite the difficult circumstances, Ralph acknowledged his ex-wife’s improvement as a co-parent and her successful move on with her life, noting that she is still with the man she left him for but is not married to him. Ralph also discussed the financial challenges he faced after the divorce, as he had to support their three children on his own income.

Rediscovering Passion and Success

Ralph shared his journey of rediscovering personal interests after reconnecting with writing and guitar playing. He discussed his blog, “Dad Starting Over,” which gained attention when he wrote about sex and marriage post-divorce, leading to the publication of his book “The Dead Bedroom Fix.” Ralph’s book became successful through organic marketing, and he later began charging for his time as a coach and mentor, highlighting the importance of recognizing one’s value and potential in unexpected career paths.

Men’s Support Organization Growth Journey

Ralph discussed his journey of building a successful men’s support organization called “Help for Men,” which includes a popular podcast, YouTube channel, and a private community called “The Brotherhood.” He shared his experience of growing from a small Facebook group to national media attention, including interviews with Forbes and New York Magazine. Ralph explained that his first book, “The Dead Bedroom Fix,” was titled to attract attention and focused on helping men overcome insecurities to improve their relationships. He noted that many of the men seeking help tend to be codependent and anxiously attached, often paired with partners who are avoidant.

Challenges in Romantic Relationships

Ralph and Jeffery discussed the challenges of maintaining romantic connections in relationships, particularly how having children can strain a couple’s relationship due to increased stress and time demands, with women often bearing the brunt of these pressures. They agreed that their group focuses on addressing real issues without unnecessary ceremony, and Ralph promoted his free resources, including a course and book on improving romantic relationships, available at helpformen.com/vroom.

Connections

Website

Jason Parker BOV
Jason Parker – Sound Retirement Planning (BOV)

Jason Parker – Sound Retirement Planning (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:59 — 77.8MB)

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Jason Parker, RICP, is the best-selling author of Sound Retirement Planning and the host of Sound Retirement Radio, a popular podcast that is also broadcast on 820am The Word in Seattle.  He has appeared as a regular guest on ABC, FOX, & NBC.  He is the inventor of retirementbudgetcalculator.com, which is software as a service to help people create an inflation-adjusted spending plan for retirement.  He has earned the advanced retirement designation of a Retirement Income Certified Professional.
At a young age, Jason had an interest in personal finance and was a bit obsessive about money.  At 12 years old he would collect dollars from his lawn mowing business and he would bring the money home and wash it in the sink and blow it dry straight before depositing it in the bank.  In his 20s, he met his mentor a man named Dean who hired him and helped him get his official start as a financial adviser and Jason hasn’t looked back.  He developed a niche for helping people prepare for a transition into retirement with a greater sense of clarity, confidence, and freedom. 

Jason Parker Vroom Veer Stories

Jason went back to the bank to make a withdrawal and he was surprised to find that they gave him dirty money; he wanted his clean dollars back

Jeff uses credit cards and pays them off each month; mostly for convenience and for points; Jason pointed out that the folks that are paying 21% per month on their balance are paying for those points; food for thought

Jason asked his Dad for advice; which led him to his mentor that set him up for success; those key connections really steer the vrooming and veering in your life

Jason’s nerd behavior led him to wrap cassette tapes in paper towel and put them in plastic bags; Jeff was a “look at me” kind of kid–dying for attention of any kind

Jason was an atheist and an agnostic; then when he was broke; not making enough money to provide for his family on Christmas, he prayed to Jesus and his life changed over night

How to practice personal peace and create your own spiritual path through Jesus or some personal brand of faith

When it comes to retirement planning the money part is just a math problem; the spiritual question of how to find purpose and contribute is the more difficult question

Website mentioned in show on Wait but Why: Religion for the Nonreligious

Connections

Website

Retirement Budget Calculator

Marty McDonald BOV
Marty McDonald – Bad Rhino Social that Works (BOV)

Marty McDonald – Bad Rhino Social that Works (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:31 — 55.3MB)

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Marty McDonald is the Co-Founder and CEO at Bad Rhino Inc., a full-service social media marketing agency based in West Chester, Pa.  Marty used social media strategies and internet marketing strategies to actively build online marketing businesses for 14 years.  He quickly realized the power of social media in recruitment marketing and small business.   Since 2003, Marty has consulted with small businesses and startups to help them succeed online.

Bad Rhino is a full-service social media marketing and digital agency that was founded in 2011.   Today, services clients locally, nationally, and globally.  One of the reasons that Bad Rhino has grown to be so successful so quickly is due to their ability to develop truly unique and highly customized strategies that create incredible exposure for their clients’ businesses.

Their full-service approach means they not only create these amazing strategies and plans, but they also implement them and manage them day to day, including delivering messages to their customers.Bad Rhino won top agency award in 2016 by the research firm Clutch. Bad Rhino has clients in specialty food, craft beer, restaurant, golf, insurance, staffing, apparel, fitness, nonprofit, Fortune 500, and major league baseball players as well as several other small businesses.

Marty McDonald Vroom Veer Stories

A quite kid (sometimes loud) running outside all dayHigh School needed a lot of time to himself; avoided drama at all costHacked College; focused on doing well on important subjects; D equals DiplomaWorked several internships while still in college to stack up loads of work experienceWorked in HR learning, payroll, benefits–got burned doing payrollChanged his focus to recruiting and talent acquisitionGreat story about how their Company got the name “Bad Rhino”

Marty McDonald Links

Bad Rhino Inc.

Stefani Reinold BOV
Stefani Reinold – Helping High Achieving Moms Escape Stereotypes (BOV)

Stefani Reinold – Helping High Achieving Moms Escape Stereotypes (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:31 — 51.8MB)

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Stefani Reinold is a board certified psychiatrist, maternal mental health expert, and Founder of Not the Typical Mom — a blog and podcast about the not so typical, but all too common issues of motherhood. She helps high achieving moms escape the stereotypes, find their hearts, and embrace who they really are so that they can kill it in life, love and business.

Stefani Reinold Vroom Veer Stories

In Vroom Vroom mode, always wanted to be a Doctor of the M.D. variety since forever

Got into a pre-med program on scholarship…and then did NOT get accepted into Med school…Yokes Scoob!

World fell apart–what am I going to do know?  What do I do with a Bachelors Degree in Biology?

Found the perfect job!  Spend a year working as a project manager working on fund raising; job was specifically for someone working to get into med school

While in medical school, started looking at the online business space and the lives of Doctors; the life of a M.D. was not as advertised

Looking for a specialty that would allow her create a business and get some work/life balance; landed on Psychiatry…which is a veer moment

During her first year of residency, endured a mountain of stress–Husband is an Army officer in a Command position; she moved away from family; she’s in a very tough school program; on top of Postpartum Depression

She finally had to reach out to get help herself in the form of mental health treatment; which, at the time felt shameful.  She has since learned that was misplaced shame

The Holmes-Rahe Stress Invento

Stefani Reinold Connections

Website

Social Media Links:

www.twitter.com/stefanireinold

www.instagram.com/stefanireinoldmd

377 Tim Packer
Tim Packer – Path to Making a Living from Your Art

Tim Packer – Path to Making a Living from Your Art

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:17:46 — 107.9MB)

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Tim Packer is a celebrated Canadian artist and former police detective who walked away from a stable career to chase a lifelong dream. He’s since built a thriving, multi-million dollar art business—selling originals, self publishing prints, and running a top-tier online art academy that’s helped thousands of artists grow.

Through the Tim Packer Art Academy and his upcoming book You Can Sell Your Art, Tim teaches artists how to master both the creative and business sides of their craft. He’s passionate about demystifying success in the art world—breaking down what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to stop believing the myth that “you either have talent or you don’t.” From mindset to marketing, from composition to pricing, Tim is on a mission to help artists finally make a living doing what they love.

Tim Packer Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Artists’ Path to Financial Independence

Tim Packer, an artist and author, discussed his new book “You Can Sell Your Art,” which provides a step-by-step guide for artists to make a living from their work. He expressed excitement about the book’s release and the success stories of his students who have achieved financial independence through their art. Tim also shared his transition from being an artist to helping others achieve their artistic dreams, highlighting his commitment to giving back to the community.

Childhood Bullying Experiences and Solutions

Tim and Jeffery discussed their experiences with bullying during their childhood. Tim shared that he was bullied in high school due to being skipped a year and being younger than his peers, but learned to stand up for himself. Jeffery recounted a similar experience in elementary school, where he fought back against bullies and put an end to the bullying. They both agreed that standing up to bullies was an effective way to stop the harassment.

Journey From Vet to Designer

Tim shared his journey from initially wanting to become a veterinarian to discovering his passion for art. Despite his parents’ initial skepticism, he pursued a career in graphic design after switching from a science-focused path in high school. Tim’s college years were marked by a shift from academic focus to social engagement, which he attributed to his newfound maturity and physical presence. He noted that while he did well in college, he did not apply himself as rigorously as he had in high school, leading to entry-level jobs after graduation.

Early Graphics and Career Transitions

Tim and Jeffery discussed their experiences with early computer graphics and design tools, with Tim recalling his manual cut-and-paste methods before computers and Jeffery sharing his story of winning a computer graphics competition in college. Tim then shared how he transitioned from a career in design to law enforcement after being inspired by his uncle’s suggestion in 1982, ultimately deciding to pursue a career in policing after being convinced it would be a good fit for his temperament.

From Police to Passionate Artist

Tim shared his career journey, starting as a police officer in 1982 and realizing his passion for art during his service. He excelled in police training and rose to the rank of sergeant and detective but found his true calling in art, which he pursued seriously after a tragic event involving a friend. Tim emphasized the importance of the growth mindset and the realization that talent can be developed, leading him to focus on his artistic skills after retirement.

Art Rediscovery Through Hard Work

Tim shared his personal journey of rediscovering his passion for art after a period of neglect, inspired by Harley Brown’s belief that talent is a myth and success in art is primarily about hard work and skill development. He decided to live as if he believed in this concept for a year, researching and committing to painting three times a week while focusing on improving his weaknesses. Tim emphasized the importance of mastering challenging areas rather than avoiding them, citing the 80/20 rule where focusing on 20% of skills can lead to significant improvement.

Art Career Transition Journey

Tim shared his journey from being a police officer to becoming a full-time artist, highlighting how his wife’s support and financial analysis led to his career transition. Despite initial concerns about financial stability, Tim’s success in portrait commissions and art sales, including a $4,000 auction piece, convinced his wife of the economic viability of pursuing art full-time. Tim emphasized the importance of proving the concept before making such a significant career change and noted that his background in law enforcement provided a fallback option if needed.

Artistic Transition and Knowledge Sharing

Tim shared his journey from a successful police career to becoming a full-time portrait painter, initially driven by passion but later facing challenges when commissions dictated his style rather than his personal artistic vision. He described how a pivotal conversation with fellow artist Neville Clark inspired him to pursue landscape painting seriously, leading to a 50-50 split between portrait and landscape work. Tim also discussed his decision to share his artistic knowledge through a YouTube channel, motivated by a sense of responsibility to help others, despite initial lack of traction.

Artistic Success Through Strategic Teaching

Tim shared his journey of mentoring Brooke Cormier, who transitioned from landscape architecture to becoming a successful artist, achieving over $30,000 in her first year and gaining a million followers. After a near-death experience due to health issues, Tim decided to shift his focus from creating art to full-time teaching, establishing an online art academy that has since earned over half a million dollars. He emphasized that artistic success is not solely about talent but also involves business sense and strategic use of platforms like YouTube and social media, as evidenced by his students’ achievements, including one who dropped out of veterinary science to pursue art and now has a similar level of success.

Success in Art: Passion and Focus

Tim and Jeffery discussed the nature of art and success in the art world. Tim emphasized that true success in art requires a burning passion and commitment to mastering the craft, rather than just enjoying the process. He explained that there are different “art villages,” including publicly funded galleries and commercial sales, each with its own values and priorities. Tim advised focusing on the village where one wants to succeed, whether it’s skill-based commercial art or concept-driven gallery art, but not trying to combine the two. He shared a personal story about how his art brought peace to a soldier with PTSD, illustrating the power of art to evoke emotion and connection.

Art, Nature, and Creative Success

Tim and Jeffery discussed Tim’s artwork and its impact on first responders, who have expressed appreciation and even printed his paintings for personal use. They explored the importance of nature in their lives and how it influences Tim’s art, emphasizing the emotional connection over artistic intent. Tim shared details about his upcoming book, “You Can Sell Your Art,” which offers a step-by-step guide to creating a sustainable income from art, emphasizing that creativity and success in the art world are learnable skills.

Connections

Website

Brooke Cormier

BOV Andy Kushner
Andy Kushner – Musician, Entrepreneur, Podcaster (BOV)

Andy Kushner – Musician, Entrepreneur, Podcaster (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:56 — 50.3MB)

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Andy Kushner entered show business on his own terms at 15.  He started what became a very successful cover band in Tampa Fl called Rhythm, performing to literally over 100,000 people during his teenage years.

After a 16 year corporate career, almost 20 years ago, he went full-time in the music business with Andy Kushner Entertainment Design custom crafting over-the-top experiences for weddings, corporate events and gala fundraisers utilizing the powerful and emotional impact of live music featuring celebrity acts and his own company-formed and managed bands SoundConnection, Rhythm6, Marquise, SoundNationand the PopCulture Strings.

Andy and his company have received practically every event industry award possible, including: Top 25 Trendsetter, by Modern Bride along with Colin Cowie, Essie and Sylvia Weinstock Best Entertainment Producer Award, by International Special Events Society, and International Entertainer of the Year Spotlight Awards, by Event Solutions Magazine.

Andy is now taking the ever-competitive podcast industry by storm with two shows, The Wedding Biz with event industry celebrities and Extraordinary Ordinary People in which he uncovers the extraordinary in ordinary people with deep and meaningful engaging conversation.

Andy Kushner Vroom Veer Stories

Discovered music at age 6 and fell in love; music practice was never a chore

Started a cover band at age 15 and worked paid gigs through his teens

Studied Business in college while working on his music on the side

Worked in Corporate selling computer/printer supplies; avoided the big promotions

Finally transitioned to full time music business starting with weddings

Transformed what people think of a “Wedding Band”; raised the bar on talent and showmanship

Established the Extraordinary Ordinary People podcast to talk with ordinary people with an inspiring life path

Launched the Wedding Biz Podcast to help brides, grooms and pros make more meaningful events

Andy Kushner Links

Extraordinary Ordinary People Podcast

The Wedding Biz Podcast

AndyKushner.com

Facebook

Twitter

375 Bruce Schutter (3)
Bruce Schutter 3 – New tools for Mental Health, Food, Cooking, and John Wick

Bruce Schutter 3 – New tools for Mental Health, Food, Cooking, and John Wick

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:16 — 76.0MB)

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Bruce Schutter returns for his third show to catch up on what’s new with the Mental Health Warrior Program.

After struggling with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorder and PTSD for over 20+ years, I reached a breaking point where I attempted suicide. But with a second chance at life, I set out to find an answer to my life’s challenges. I discovered that Mental Health is the key to triumphing over any challenge in life!

Armed with this knowledge, I created the Mental Health Warrior Program, a new self-help approach for triumphing over life’s challenges and building the life you really want!

At the core of the Mental Health Warrior Program lies the principle of self-empowerment. With practical solutions centered on lifestyle and mindset changes, the program empowers you to respond, not react, to life’s challenges, by tapping into your inner strength and resilience.

Bruce Schutter (3) Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

Vroom Vroom Veer Podcast Interview

Jeffery and Bruce discuss their upcoming third interview together on the Vroom Vroom Veer podcast. They agree to have a natural conversation, with Jeffery mentioning he will bring up some personal developments without prior preparation. Bruce records a new introduction for the show, emphasizing his role as a Mental Health Warrior. They briefly discuss their experiences with seasonal allergies before starting the official recording.

Mental Health Warrior Program Discussion

Bruce shared his personal struggles with mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, alcoholism, anxiety, and PTSD, and how he found a new self-help approach called the Mental Health Warrior Program. This program focuses on putting the power back in one’s hands, managing challenges, and embracing emotions. Bruce emphasized the importance of a positive approach to mental health and creating a safe space for open conversation. He also mentioned a recent presentation at a college in Pennsylvania, which was not about making money but about spreading the word about mental health.

Sandbag Workouts for Mental Health

Bruce discusses his involvement with Shippensburg University, where he conducts sandbag workouts for mental and physical health. He explains that these workouts are done outdoors using a single piece of equipment, allowing for engagement with people and providing full-body exercise. Bruce and his team participate in the university’s health and wellness fair, helping students with their physical and mental health challenges. He emphasizes how these activities were impossible for him in the past, and now serve as proof of his progress in managing his bipolar disorder.

Mind Fuel: Food and Mental Health

Bruce and Jeffery discussed the concept of “Mind Fuel,” a book that focuses on the connection between food and mental health. The book outlines three food rules: low carb, no sugar, and minimally processed foods. It also provides detailed information on specific foods, their mental health benefits, and creative ways to incorporate them into one’s diet. The book aims to help readers maintain a healthy lifestyle and improve their mental well-being.

Meditation, Diet, and Cold Water Benefits

Jeffery discusses his experience with a meditation app and Tim Ferriss’s book “The 4-Hour Body,” focusing on the “30 and 30” concept (30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking) and the slow carb diet. He explains the diet’s principles, including avoiding white carbs, eating specific proteins and beans, and having a weekly cheat day. Jeffery and Bruce also discuss the benefits of cold water exposure and reducing sugar intake for overall health and mental well-being. They agree that these approaches, along with the 80-20 rule, can lead to significant improvements in both physical and mental health.

Mental Health Awareness Through Characters

Bruce discusses the blog articles they write daily to introduce mental health concepts using popular characters like Winnie the Pooh and John Wick. These articles aim to make mental health discussions less intimidating and more approachable, providing three tools or suggestions in each piece. Bruce also mentions new tools they’ve developed, such as using everyday objects like forks and spoons to promote mental health awareness. Additionally, he introduces their mental health warrior challenge coins, which come in four designs and two metals, featuring warrior guidance on the back. Bruce emphasizes that these resources are designed to support people in their daily lives and make mental health discussions more accessible and actionable.

Cold Water Therapy for Mental Health

Jeffrey and Bruce discussed the benefits of cold water therapy and its impact on mental health. They shared personal experiences of using cold water baths and plunges to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Bruce mentioned a tool called the reverse sauna, which involves exposing oneself to cold temperatures to wake up the senses. They also discussed the importance of finding peak experiences, whether big or small, to boost mood and confidence. The conversation ended with Bruce emphasizing the value of handling emotions to overcome challenges and continue enjoying hobbies.

Ancient Zen Practices for Growth

Jeffrey and Bruce discussed the benefits of meditation and mindfulness practices, particularly those rooted in ancient Zen traditions. They emphasized the importance of connecting with one’s surroundings and internal experiences, such as breathing, to cultivate a sense of unity with the universe. Bruce highlighted the value of these practices in processing emotions and overcoming challenges, drawing parallels with the warrior program. They agreed that these tools and techniques can be applied to various aspects of life, helping individuals to overcome limitations and achieve personal growth.

Embracing Change and Celebrating Small Victories

Bruce and Jeffery conclude their discussion by reflecting on personal growth and the importance of taking the first step towards change. They emphasize that progress is not always linear, but rather involves weaving through life’s challenges. Bruce encourages people to visit his website, sign up for the newsletter, and engage with the resources available. They use sports analogies to illustrate the idea of persevering through obstacles and celebrating small victories. The conversation ends with a lighthearted exchange about football tactics and the limitations of analogies.

Connections

Website

374 Matt Walker
Matt Walker – Summit Experiences, Guided Life Change, Digital Detox

Matt Walker – Summit Experiences, Guided Life Change, Digital Detox

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:12 — 70.5MB)

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Matt Walker MA, is a dedicated men’s psychologist and international mountain guide based in Washington, USA. With a mission to help men navigate mid-life challenges, Matt empowers his clients to define success, align their values with actions, and live unapologetically. Through 1:1 coaching, group programs, immersive retreats, and transformative climbing expeditions, Matt creates opportunities for growth, adventure, and community. His work is rooted in fostering clarity, boldness, and a life lived in alignment with personal values.

Matt lives in a mountain town in Washington State with his two children and balances parenting with a full workload which includes coaching individual and groups, leading climbing expeditions both professionally and personally

Matt Walker Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Matt’s Balancing Act and Life Shifts

Matt discusses his work as both a mountain guide and a psychologist, supporting men through major life transitions. He is excited about the balance in his calendar between traditional coaching and field work in the mountains. Matt mentions he has a new book coming out after a 10-year publishing hiatus. He also reflects on how his values and priorities have shifted with age, emphasizing the importance of embracing these changes rather than judging oneself based on past expectations.

Skepticism and the Shaping of Belief

Matt and Jeffery discuss their approaches to knowledge and belief. Jeffery describes himself as highly skeptical, avoiding absolute certainty and viewing most things on a spectrum of probability. Matt agrees with this perspective, sharing an example from a memoir that acknowledged multiple viewpoints of the same experience. They discuss the unreliability of memory and the impact of mentors and teachers in shaping their worldviews. Matt reflects on how early influences expanded his understanding of career possibilities beyond his suburban upbringing.

Mountain Climbing and Post-Military Life

Matt shares his experience of moving from Northern New Jersey to Washington State after high school, motivated by his desire to be in the mountains following an Outward Bound course. He became involved in the climbing community, joining a group of experienced climbers and participating in significant expeditions. Matt later pursued a degree in philosophy but ultimately worked as a full-time mountain guide, leading international expeditions including the Seven Summits. Jeffery, in contrast, completed a bachelor’s degree in psychology using his GI Bill after retiring from the Air Force, but chose not to pursue a career in that field.

Matt’s Approach to Existential Crises

Matt discusses his approach to helping clients who are experiencing existential crises. He explains that he combines his background in psychology with outdoor experiences, particularly mountain climbing, to create a more effective therapeutic environment. Matt emphasizes the importance of having a guide during these experiences, comparing it to psychedelic journeys with proper set and setting. He notes that the most powerful moments for clarity and transformation occur during the descent from a summit, before transitioning back to everyday life. Matt sees his role as a supportive guide rather than actively doing the work for his clients.

Challenging Experiences and Personal Growth

Matt and Jeffery discuss the transformative power of challenging experiences, particularly in the context of personal growth and self-awareness. They explore how these experiences can lead to clarity, alignment between values and actions, and a sense of awakening. Jeffery shares his recent experience with a meditation app called “Way App,” which he finds more effective than typical meditation apps due to its foundation in authentic Zen practices. They both agree that consistent, thoughtful practice can lead to gradual but meaningful increases in awareness and personal growth.

Matt’s Mountaineering Experiences and Future Plans

Matt discusses his mountaineering experiences, including climbing two of the fourteen 8,000-meter peaks and plans to summit Everest in the future. He mentions postponing his Everest attempt due to family circumstances but has upcoming expeditions to Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia and Kilimanjaro in Africa. Matt emphasizes that while Kilimanjaro is not as technically challenging as other climbs, it provides a powerful experience for clients, combining mountaineering with personal development work for men.

Digital Detox and Analog Productivity

Matt discusses the benefits of digital detox during his expeditions, noting that it’s initially challenging for participants but ultimately provides relief from constant connectivity. He has acquired a company focused on analog productivity called 3 by 5 Life, which produces printed index cards for tasks like scheduling and gratitude practices. Jeffery shares his own digital detox strategies, including uninstalling social apps and turning off most notifications on his phone.

Mountain Climbing: Real vs. Perceived Risks

Matt discusses the risks associated with mountain climbing, explaining that while it appears to be constantly high-risk, the actual danger is relatively low. He emphasizes that the most dangerous part is often driving to the climbing location. Matt points out that climbing doesn’t make for good TV, leading to unrealistic portrayals in media. He also mentions the importance of managing risk and distinguishing between perceived and real risks in climbing. Jeffery shares his experiences with dangerous car accidents in Los Angeles to illustrate the everyday risks people often overlook.

Distinguishing Perceived vs. Actual Risk

Matt and Jeffery discuss the difference between perceived and actual risk, particularly in career changes. Matt emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between these two types of risk and understanding what one is responding to emotionally. Jeffery shares his personal experience of overcoming the perceived risk of leaving the Air Force, highlighting how a chance conversation with an Army captain changed his perspective on managing his career and finances. The discussion concludes with Matt sharing a similar lesson he learned about money management early in his career, emphasizing that financial stability is more about how one manages money rather than how much one earns.

Embracing Unexpected Interactions and Learning

Jeffery and Matt discuss the importance of being open to unexpected interactions and learning opportunities. They share stories about chance encounters that had significant impacts, including Jeffery’s experience with a fellow serviceman who gave him investment advice. Matt relates this to the importance of recognizing the humanity in everyday interactions, such as with grocery store cashiers. They also mention Matt’s analog productivity system, 3×5.life, offering listeners a 20% discount with the code VVV20.

Connections

Website – mattwalkeradventure.com

3x5life.com/vvv20

373 Jon Chandonnet
Jon Chandonnet – Denial to Discovery: Jon’s Journey with MS

Jon Chandonnet – Denial to Discovery: Jon’s Journey with MS

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:34 — 68.5MB)

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Jon Chandonnet was on the fast track to success, earning his master’s from MIT and leading teams to develop software to launch startups, while also scaling mountain peaks and running marathons. But at 33, his life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

For years, Jon lived in denial, ignoring his condition as he pushed himself to even greater extremes.Eventually, his health deteriorated, forcing him to embark on an eight-year journey to understand life’s essential elements for vibrant well-being despite his illness.

His book Shadow Summit chronicles this inspiring odyssey through denial, suffering, and ultimately healing and wholeness.

On this quest, Jon identified seven foundational elements for creating one’s healthiest, most fulfilled life. Drawing on his software background, he realized humans, like computers, process daily inputs that shape their outputs.

Jon distilled these insights into the 7 VIBRANTs™ well-being system, a holistic framework to mindfullycurate the inputs we receive through food, thoughts, emotions and social interactions. This allows anyone to naturally cultivate the vibrant life they desire with greater focus, persistence, joy and ease.

Jon Chandonnet Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” titled “Denial to Discovery: Jon’s Journey with MS,” host Jeff Smith welcomes guest Jon Chandonnet, who shares his inspiring journey of dealing with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Jeff and Jon chat about San Diego, where Jon currently resides, and Jeff asks him about his business at Vibrant U Academy. Jon expresses excitement about his business, revealing that he wrote a book outlining the “seven keys to living your best life,” which he developed after struggling with MS. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of energy leaks in various forms—physical, emotional, professional, financial, social, mental, and spiritual.

Jon narrates his past as a high-achieving individual, a captain of sports teams, and a smart student who attended the University of Richmond before moving on to graduate school at MIT. His life took a drastic turn at 27 when he was playing basketball and suddenly lost control of his right arm and leg, leading to a diagnosis of MS. Initially, he was in denial about his condition, allowing him to push through difficult times in his career and maintain an active life, including running marathons and climbing mountains.

As Jon successfully pursued his career in a technology startup, he continued to deny the impacts of MS. He recounts how, six years later, he began to experience troubling symptoms, including speech difficulties and loss of coordination. This forced him to confront his diagnosis head-on, leading to a realization that he needed to take his health seriously to ensure a better future for himself and his young son.

Jon describes a transformative experience at a raw vegan retreat that helped him heal and regain control of his life. Following this retreat, he found a clear connection between emotional well-being and physical health, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and emotional literacy. Jon discusses the necessity of adopting healthier eating habits, which eventually led him to develop the “Vibrant U operating system.”

The conversation delves into Jon’s coaching program at Vibrant U Academy, where he helps clients assess their lives in various domains, set long-term goals, and create a personalized operating system for achieving their dreams. He believes that it’s essential for individuals to recognize their unique desires and what they want from life.

As the episode comes to a close, Jon mentions his ongoing journey and the impact of a paleo-keto diet on his condition, highlighting the importance of self-responsibility in managing health issues like MS. He encourages listeners to pursue their version of a vibrant life, reminding them that their journey is uniquely theirs.

Jeff thanks Jon for sharing his story, and the episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to explore Jon’s book, “Shadow Summit,” and check out his work at Vibrant U Academy.

Connections

Website

372 Elizabeth Zelika Parsons
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons – Navigating the Retirement Transition

Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons – Navigating the Retirement Transition

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 53:39 — 73.9MB)

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Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, J.D., is a Retirement Transition Expert, lawyer, and co-founder of two consulting firms, Zelinka Parsons and Encoraco. A magna cum laude graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and summa cum laude graduate of James Madison University, Elizabeth has spent over two decades shaping professional development and transition strategies for legal professionals. A former attorney at Milbank, she built a national consulting firm assisting AmLaw 100 firms with talent solutions. Author of “Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement ” (Feb. 5, 2025), Elizabeth combines analytical rigor with creative vision to help professionals redefine retirement as a dynamic opportunity for growth and fulfillment.

Elizabeth Zelinka Parson Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith welcomes guest Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, a Retirement Transition Expert and lawyer. After a brief introduction by Michelle e Dickinson and an advertisement for the show, Jeff expresses excitement about the episode’s topic, namely tips for retirement, as he has been retired for a long time and is eager to learn.

Elizabeth shares insights about her work at her consulting firms, Encoraco and Zelinka Parsons, highlighting her new book, “Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement,” which was released in February 2025. She explains that many people overly focus on the financial aspect of retirement, neglecting the personal identity challenges that come with it. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of redefining retirement as a dynamic opportunity for growth and fulfillment.

Jeff and Elizabeth discuss the psychological impact of leaving a long-standing career, touching upon the pressure high achievers feel to remain successful. Elizabeth recounts her experience when she transitioned from a demanding law career to focusing on family, which drastically altered her identity and self-worth. She describes feeling lost and having to rebuild her life without the structure her career provided.

They reflect on how their early identities were shaped by their achievements and how challenging it can be to adjust to a new reality without traditional markers of success. Elizabeth encourages listeners to seek engagement and purpose in various aspects of their lives, advocating for a more experimental mindset as they explore new interests and connections.

The conversation also covers the difficulties transitioners face regarding social connections and community building post-retirement. Elizabeth speaks about the need to be intentional in forming relationships and finding new activities that bring joy and meaning.

As the episode concludes, Elizabeth discusses her process of writing her book, which grew out of her experiences and the desire to help others navigate their retirement transitions. Jeff praises the value of Elizabeth’s work and encourages listeners to engage with her content on her website, encoraco.com, and through her LinkedIn page.

The episode ends with playful banter as Jeff thanks Elizabeth for her time, reinforcing the importance of navigating life’s transitions thoughtfully and intentionally. The show wraps up with a reminder to visit vvvveer.com for more information and show notes.

Connections

Website

LinkedIn

371 Michelle E. Dickinson
Michelle E. Dickinson – Harnessing Stress as a Strength

Michelle E. Dickinson – Harnessing Stress as a Strength

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:21 — 69.8MB)

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Michelle E. Dickinson – she’s flipping the script on how we handle stress and build resilience. As a TED speaker and bestselling author, she’s taught over 15,000 people across education, Fortune 500s, and healthcare how to actually deal with burnout and overwhelm – not just talk about it.Michelle doesn’t do typical coaching. Instead, she teaches practical skills that work right away – think of it like getting a user manual for your brain. Her clients see real results fast: 30% less stress within three sessions, and 50-70% reduction after completing her program. But here’s what’s really different: her clients keep getting better long after the training ends.In just 6-8 sessions, she shows people exactly how to:Handle tough situations without getting overwhelmedBuild daily habits that actually stickTurn stress into something manageableTake charge of their own well-being without depending on othersHer approach is backed by hard data from over 1,500 coaching hours and countless success stories. From teachers to CEOs, people who used to roll their eyes at terms like ‘mindfulness’ now use her techniques every day.Michelle’s not interested in endless therapy-style conversations or quick-fix solutions. She gives people real tools they can use immediately – at work, at home, anywhere. Her clients don’t just cope better with stress – they completely change how they handle life’s challenges through personal agency.What makes her different? She skips the fluffy self-help talk and gets straight to what works. Her clients don’t become dependent on coaching – they become skilled at managing their own lives. It’s like learning to drive – once you know how, you can handle any road ahead.

Michelle E. Dickinson Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith welcomes Michelle E. Dickinson as the guest. Jeff introduces the show by emphasizing the importance of navigating life’s challenges creatively.

Michelle is introduced as a TED speaker and bestselling author who has taught over 15,000 people across various fields how to manage stress and burnout effectively. She shares her excitement for her work, particularly the powerful impact it’s having on educators and corporate clients who are on the brink of burnout.

The two discuss Michelle’s background, including her upbringing in Westfield, New Jersey, where she was shaped by her mother’s bipolar disorder. This challenging experience inspired Michelle to become a resilience advocate after giving a TED talk about her childhood, leading her to write a memoir and eventually create her business, “Resilience as a Lifestyle.”

Throughout the episode, they explore themes of stress management and resilience. Michelle explains the unique approach of her coaching, which focuses on practical skills and immediate results, such as reducing stress levels significantly within just a few sessions. She highlights the importance of sleep, creating morning routines, and taking control of one’s mental well-being rather than relying on therapy or quick fixes.

They dive into the significance of daily habits, including gratitude practices and meditation, and ways to view stress as a strength rather than a burden. Michelle asserts that resilience should not just be about bouncing back from adversity but about recognizing one’s agency in every situation.

The conversation also covers how to turn life’s stress into a valuable learning experience and the detrimental effects of living in a constant state of negativity or victimhood. Michelle encourages listeners to become aware of their thought patterns, suggesting that individuals are often not the negative narratives they continuously tell themselves.

By the end of the episode, Michelle emphasizes the importance of practical strategies for self-care and mental wellness, advocating for a proactive approach to resilience that prioritizes immediate, actionable steps.

Jeff wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to connect with Michelle through her website and LinkedIn. The episode concludes with a cheerful acknowledgment from Tim Paige, who encourages listeners to visit the podcast website for more information and show notes.

Overall, the episode focuses on harnessing and managing stress effectively as a strength, underscoring the importance of proactive mental health practices in daily life.

Connections

Website

https://resilienceasalifestyle.com

370 Mickie Kennedy
Mickie Kennedy – Creative Writing helps Bring News Releases to Small Business

Mickie Kennedy – Creative Writing helps Bring News Releases to Small Business

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:37 — 42.5MB)

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Mickie Kennedy is an expert at helping small businesses, authors, and startups increase their visibility and credibility. 26 years ago, Mickie founded eReleases after realizing that small businesses desperately need a press release distribution service they can afford. While working in PR. Mickie came face to face with customers that wanted to use press releases due to their effectiveness at bringing in business, but could not afford to pay the extremely high startup fees that most agencies charged. Mickie saw an opportunity to help — and eReleases was born.

Mickie created eReleases to give small businesses access to the media and to a national newswire – all with a personal touch. eReleases has grown since then and even works with big names now, but the spirit of Mickie’s original intent has not changed. eReleases delivers personal service and exceptional value to every customer, with every press release, at every price point.

Mickie lives in Baltimore County with his family and two feuding cats. He enjoys British science fiction and acknowledges an unhealthy addiction to diet soda. Mickie holds an MFA in Creative Writing with an emphasis in Poetry from George Mason University. He still writes poetry most Monday nights with a group of fellow misfits in Brunswick, Maryland.

Mickie Kennedy Vroom Vroom Veer Summary

In this episode, host Jeff Smith welcomes Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases. The episode begins with a brief introduction, including a light-hearted reminder from Michael Stein, a voiceover promoting the show.

Jeff expresses excitement about having Mickie on the podcast and asks about her current business endeavors. Mickie shares that for the past 26 years, she has been helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and authors gain publicity through affordable press release distribution via eReleases, which sends releases nationally through PR Newswire at a fraction of the cost of traditional agencies.

The conversation shifts to Mickie’s childhood, where he describes growing up in Eastern North Carolina, engaging in outdoor adventures, and spending time with friends in a rural setting. They reminisce about childhood activities, including dirt bike riding and fishing.

Mickie reflects on his time at East Carolina University, where he pursued English literature and anthropology, eventually obtaining an MFA in creative writing. He originally planned a bohemian life as a poet but transitioned to writing press releases at a telecom research startup, where he discovered the potential impact of storytelling in press releases.

Mickie describes a pivotal moment in 1998 when a friend faced exorbitant costs for a press release, prompting him to create eReleases to support small businesses with affordable press release services. He explains the unique approach eReleases takes by crafting story-based press releases that journalists can utilize, contrasting it with the common practice of simply highlighting product features.

The discussion covers his love for British science fiction, particularly Doctor Who, and how a public TV antenna introduced him to it. They also touch on his dual interests in poetry and writing, with Mickie revealing his current poetry projects and upcoming book.

Jeff and Mickie discuss his two cats and their temperamental relationship, drawing parallels to the challenges of herding cats metaphorically in work scenarios. The episode concludes with Jeff encouraging listeners to connect with Mickie through eReleases’ website and social media, emphasizing the supportive and honest nature of their team.

Finally, Jeff wraps up the episode with a cheerful goodbye, reminding listeners to check the show notes for more information. The episode captures Mickie’s transition from writer to PR expert, her business philosophy, and personal anecdotes from her journey.

Connections

Website

369 Michael Stein
Michael Stein – Grew up with Dyslexia and ADHD and Found Success as a Long Shot

Michael Stein – Grew up with Dyslexia and ADHD and Found Success as a Long Shot

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 23:01 — 31.8MB)

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Michael Stein is an entrepreneur, actor, writer, director, producer, stand-up comedian, and personal development expert. Michael is the founder and CEO of Abadak Inc. A company that he started with zero money and has since made 100+ million dollars. Started his entrepreneurial career when he was 19 years, becoming the #1 young nightclub promoter in Los Angeles. Michael has acted and worked with multiple Academy Award-winning actors, filmmakers, producers, and fortune 500 leaders and is the host of the Long Shot Leaders Podcast.

Michael Stein Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith welcomes guest Michael Stein, an accomplished entrepreneur, actor, writer, director, producer, stand-up comedian, and personal development expert. Michael shares insights about his dynamic career, starting with his early struggles growing up with ADHD and dyslexia. He reflects on his dysfunctional childhood, mentioning his father’s rise and fall from wealth, and his grandmother’s escape from a Russian concentration camp.

Michael recounts how he found inspiration in the movie “Rocky,” which motivated him to work out and become physically fit. He then began his entrepreneurial journey at age 19, quickly becoming the top nightclub promoter in Los Angeles. This led him to work with prominent figures in the film industry and to start producing his own films, including the acclaimed “Love Hollywood Style,” despite facing numerous challenges.

He elaborates on his decision to start a business, Tarps Plus, as a means to finance his filmmaking dreams. The business eventually made over 100 million dollars, leading him to launch a new venture, Bolator, which produces a unique multifunctional backpack. Michael emphasizes the importance of perseverance and learning from failure in achieving success.

As they discuss the role of a producer, Michael explains the different types, such as line producers and executive producers, and how they contribute to film production. He draws comparisons to successful figures in Hollywood, including Mark Wahlberg, and shares his own experiences and aspirations in filmmaking.

Towards the end of the episode, Jeff and Michael discuss the value of investing and the risks involved in film production. The conversation wraps up with Jeff inviting Michael to return for another episode, highlighting the fun and insightful exchange they’ve had.

The episode concludes with Tim Paige encouraging listeners to visit the podcast’s website for more information and to catch up with future episodes.

Connections

Long Shot Leaders Podcast

Bolotor.com

Tarps Plus

368 R. Scott Edwards
R. Scott Edwards – Mastering Laughter: Exploring the Origins of Stand-Up Comedy

R. Scott Edwards – Mastering Laughter: Exploring the Origins of Stand-Up Comedy

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:15 — 66.4MB)

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R. Scott Edwards started his first company at age 17, and at 24 opened Laughs Unlimited, (1980) just the 12th full-time comedy club in the entire United States. Scott was fortunate to fall in with comedy greats like Bob Saget, Dave Coulier, Garry Shandling, and many others who helped him develop an extremely successful chain of comedy clubs in Northern California. In turn, he helped develop talents like Paula Poundstone, Brian Posehn, and Dana Carvey, and enjoyed working with icons like Graham Chapman of Monty Python, Pat Paulsen, Soupy Sales, and Tommy Chong.Scott knows comedy performance and production, having produced three TV series, several large concerts, and thousands of live comedy stage shows. Now Scott is sharing what heʼs learned through his books, interactive online courses, podcasts, and video archives. Listen and enjoy the experiences and stories about talent from all the greats, from Ellen and Yakov Smirnoff to Paul Reiser and Seinfeld—and even the amazing Robin Williams!

R. Scott Edwards Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” titled “R. Scott Edwards: Mastering Laughter: Exploring the Origins of Stand-Up Comedy,” host Jeff Smith engages in a deep and humorous conversation with guest R. Scott Edwards, a seasoned comedy club owner and comedy producer. The episode kicks off with Jeff’s light-hearted banter about hitting the record button, followed by various guest introductions that showcase the theme of veering away from a scripted life to more genuine experiences.

Jeff warmly welcomes R. Scott Edwards, and they dive into Edwards’ extensive history in the comedy scene. Edwards shares his journey from opening Laughs Unlimited, one of the first full-time comedy clubs in the U.S., to working with and developing prominent comedians like Paula Poundstone and Dana Carvey. He talks about the evolution of comedy clubs from mere spaces in strip joints to respected venues showcasing professional stand-up artists, emphasizing how he helped put Sacramento on the comedy map.

The conversation veers towards the changing dynamics of stand-up comedy, expressing how different comics brought different flavors to stage performances. Scott mentions notable comedians like Bob Saget and Dave Coulier who were instrumental in shaping the stand-up scene. They reminisce about the influence of television and comedy specials from HBO in popularizing stand-up even further during the 1980s.

They discuss Scott’s other ventures, including a stint in submarine tourism, and his passion for creating hospitable environments to showcase comedy, underscoring the importance of having fun in business endeavors. Furthermore, Scott outlines how he transitioned from entertaining to more service-oriented careers like insurance, maintaining his core mission of enhancing people’s lives regardless of the industry.

The episode touches on the personal challenges and humorous anecdotes from Scott’s experiences owning a chain of clubs and producing comedy shows, reflecting on how stand-up is a unique form of art that is intimately connected with the audience’s engagement.

To wrap up, Edwards elaborates on his current projects which include teaching the art of comedy through books and courses. He reflects on the essence of comedy: its ability to pivot or “veer,” adapting to the audience and environment to perfect the art. The episode ends with appreciations and reminders of Scott’s ongoing contributions to the comedy world, highlighting his websites and upcoming projects that aim to educate and entertain aspiring comedians and comedy enthusiasts.

Overall, the podcast episode masterfully explores the intricacies of the comedy world through R. Scott Edwards’ historical insights and personal stories, all while maintaining a lively and engaging atmosphere that resonates well with the theme of veering towards a more fulfilling and entertaining life path.

Connections

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367 Dara McKinley
Dara McKinley – Learning How to Forgive and the Structure of Forgiveness

Dara McKinley – Learning How to Forgive and the Structure of Forgiveness

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Dara McKinley: After studying psychology and alternative spirituality for most of her life, an unlikely turn of events veered Dara McKinley toward the forgiveness path. Examined through the lens of her previous knowledge, she discovered that forgiveness is not only an effective healing modality, but it wasn’t pardoning. Feeling called to help the many people deterred by mainstream forgiveness definitions, today Dara guides people beyond popular forgiveness understandings and into a practical spiritual process that restores peace.

Dara McKinley Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of the Vroom Vroom Veer podcast, host Jeff Smith welcomes guest Dara McKinley, an expert on forgiveness whose approach diverges from traditional notions of pardoning. The episode commences with a humorous introduction and transitions into an in-depth exploration of McKinley’s unique perspective on forgiveness and its implications for personal growth and freedom.

Jeff Smith begins by clarifying McKinley’s name and affiliation with her website “howtoforgive.com.” Dara McKinley introduces her specialized approach to forgiveness, particularly of interest to individuals who are spiritual but not religious. She explains that conventional definitions of forgiveness, which often include pardoning or letting go of anger, do not resonate with everyone, including herself. McKinley discusses her journey and personal challenges, which led her to pursue a deeper understanding of forgiveness beyond traditional narratives.

As the conversation unfolds, McKinley distinguishes between interpersonal forgiveness (forgiving others) and intrapersonal forgiveness (forgiving oneself), emphasizing how both types serve distinct functions but are united by the common goal of achieving inner peace and self-liberation. She also shares her personal background, including her upbringing by a spiritually open mother and an eclectic education that eventually influenced her professional focus on forgiveness.

The discussion continues with McKinley describing a crucial turning point during a personal crisis when she felt compelled to understand and practice forgiveness on a deeper level. This led her to develop a program to help others experience the transformative power of what she calls “true forgiveness,” which involves a profound internal shift rather than merely excusing someone’s actions.

Throughout the podcast, host Jeff Smith engages with McKinley’s insights by relating them to his own experiences and broader philosophical concepts, illustrating a mutual understanding and exploration of the subject matter.

Towards the end of the episode, both McKinley and Smith delve into nuances of the forgiveness process, discussing the challenges people face due to societal and cultural conditioning around the concept. They touch on various implications of forgiveness, like enhancing personal intuition and inner peace, which McKinley suggests can lead to higher levels of consciousness and improved life quality.

Finally, the podcast concludes with a summary of McKinley’s online resources, encouraging listeners to explore forgiveness not just as a means to overcome interpersonal disputes but as a transformative personal practice. Jeff Smith wraps up by reflecting on the enriching dialogue and directing listeners to further resources available on the Vroom Vroom Veer website.

Connections

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How to Forgive

366 Fiorella Yriberry
Fiorella Yriberry – Turning a Veer into Adventures in Nomadic Life

Fiorella Yriberry – Turning a Veer into Adventures in Nomadic Life

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:59 — 67.3MB)

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Fiorella Yriberry, a nomadic content marketer for RVshare, has traveled 40+ states and 35 national parks in her self-converted home. For four years, shes explored North America, sharing stories to inspire outdoor adventures.

Fiorella Yriberry Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” hosted by Jeff Smith, the focus is on the nomadic lifestyle of guest Fiorella Yriberry, a content marketing specialist for RVshare. Fiorella has traveled extensively across North America in her self-converted RV, exploring over 40 states and 35 national parks.

The episode begins with an introduction by Jeff Smith, setting the stage for a discussion about life’s unpredictable paths and how Fiorella’s professional and personal life embody the podcast’s themes of veering and adventure. Fiorella describes her role at RVshare, detailing how her job aligns with her lifestyle and allows her to promote and share her experiences with a broader audience. She explains the concept of RVshare as a peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, highlighting her unique position as both a company employee and a user of the service.

Fiorella shares her backstory, starting with her upbringing in Bolivia and her move to the United States for college. Post-graduation life saw her and her husband falling into a routine lifestyle, which they soon realized was limiting their travel opportunities. This realization led them to embrace RV living, initially jumping into it with little prior experience. Fiorella outlines the learning curve they faced, including details about their first and second RVs, stressing the importance of renting before buying to understand what suits one’s needs.

Throughout the conversation, Fiorella and Jeff exchange stories about their respective RV experiences, including technical challenges like dealing with vehicle size and the benefits of having a smaller, more maneuverable setup. Both guests discuss adaptations they’ve made to their RVs to fit their needs better, such as installing solar panels and composting toilets, with Fiorella emphasizing their desire to be fully off-grid.

Fiorella also touches on her life on the road, particularly how she manages work with her travels, thanks to technologies like Starlink for reliable internet. She shares some of the challenges of remote living, such as vehicle breakdowns in isolated areas, and contrasts these with the profound joys and beauty experienced while visiting diverse landscapes, from Arizona’s deserts to Montana’s mountains.

The episode wraps up with a discussion on their favorite travel destinations, tips for living off-grid, and how Fiorella manages a balance between work and exploring the outdoors. The hosts briefly chat about future travels before closing the episode, inviting listeners to check out Fiorella’s blog and RVshare for those inspired to venture into RV living.

Overall, the episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” captures a broad and inspiring discussion on embracing life’s veers through the lens of a nomadic lifestyle, accented with practical insights and engaging personal anecdotes from Fiorella Yriberry’s adventures on the road.

Connections

RVShare

Growing Slow and Wild

364 Dr. Manan Shah
Dr. Manan Shah – Revolutionizing Allergy Care with Wyndly

Dr. Manan Shah – Revolutionizing Allergy Care with Wyndly

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 37:48 — 52.1MB)

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Dr. Manan Shah is a founder and Chief Medical Officer (CMedO) of Wyndly. As CMedO, Dr. Shah oversees every aspect of Wyndly which interacts with patients (and many that don’t!), including patient experience, provider experience, medical operations, marketing, and customer support. He’s led Wyndly from just an idea, to its first patients, to the fully-functioning medical practice and company it is today.Dr. Shah is academically active at national and local levels. He has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in medical journals and book chapters. Additionally, he gives presentations and lectures locally and nationally on topics relating to otolaryngology. He was nominated by local colleagues to serve as the President of the Colorado ENT Society, and also elected by his national peers to serve as the Secretary of the YPS of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, and is also a member of the Academy’s Telehealth Committee.Dr. Shah created Wyndly with co-founder and cousin Aakash Shah in 2020, participating in the Y Combinator W21 batch. Prior to Wyndly, Dr. Shah completed his medical school at the University of Maryland and pursued an additional certification in clinical research. He subsequently completed his Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery training at the University of Connecticut.Before his medical career, Dr. Shah attended Tufts University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts, double major: Music and Biomedical Engineering. Outside of Wyndly, Dr. Shah focuses on increasing the understanding and accessibility of allergy care and otolaryngology both through research articles on his website and answering common medical questions on reddit, Youtube, and TikTok.

Dr. Manan Shah Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Episode Summary:

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Manan Shah, the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Wyndly, a fully virtual allergy care practice. Dr. Shah shares his journey from the initial concept to the actualization of Wyndly and discusses the innovation of providing allergy treatments online.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction and Background:

Dr. Shah describes Wyndly’s mission to provide long-term allergy treatment through immunotherapy that patients can administer at home.

Shift in Allergy Treatment:

Dr. Shah discusses how traditional allergy treatments necessitate frequent visits and injections at a medical office, which is inconvenient and outdated in the current fast-paced world. He compares this to Wyndly’s method of sublingual immunotherapy, which is popular in Europe and easier for patients to manage at home.

Early Years and Inspiration:

Growing up in Maryland, Dr. Shah was heavily inspired by his parents, both of whom were in medical professions. This familial influence steered him toward a career in healthcare, specifically otolaryngology, bridging his mother’s dentistry and his father’s surgery practices.

Career and Educational Background:

Dr. Shah touches on his educational path, including attending Tufts University, the University of Maryland for medical school, and the University of Connecticut for Otolaryngology training. His career choice was further solidified by personal medical experiences and the desire to improve patient care.

Challenges in Traditional Medical Practices:

He discusses the challenges within traditional medical setups, including the constraints imposed by insurance companies on patient care. This frustration led him to explore more patient-focused solutions that would not involve the cumbersome and often opaque billing practices associated with insurance.

Starting Wyndly with Tech Support:

Dr. Shah recounts how his cousin, Aakash Shah, helped him integrate technology into his practice, which became particularly useful when transitioning to virtual consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expanding Wyndly’s Reach:

The conversation shifts to the scaling of Wyndly’s services, made possible through participation in Y Combinator, which provided the necessary mentorship and funding. This accelerated their expansion from Colorado to a nationwide service.

Personal Allergy Experiences:

Dr. Shah shares his personal struggles with severe allergies, particularly to cats, which not only affected his personal life but also highlighted the effectiveness of the treatment methods he now advocates through Wyndly.

Conclusion and Contact Information:

As the episode wraps up, Jeff Smith expresses enthusiasm for the accessible and patient-oriented approach Wyndly offers. Dr. Shah invites listeners to visit Wyndly’s website for more information or to initiate treatment, emphasizing the ease and effectiveness of their innovative allergy treatment solutions.

This episode effectively discusses how Wyndly is transforming allergy treatment by leveraging telehealth capabilities and modern treatment methods, emphasizing convenience, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.

Connections

Website

363 Sheila Buswell
Sheila Buswell: Lessons from the Army to Biomedical CEO

Sheila Buswell: Lessons from the Army to Biomedical CEO

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:15 — 66.9MB)

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Sheila Buswell is the CEO and Co-Founder of Buswell Biomedical, a veteran of the US Army and the author of Is This Seat For Me? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Everyday Life and Business

Sheila Buswell Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of Vroom Vroom Veer, host Jeff Smith talks with guest Sheila Buswell, CEO of Buswell Biomedical and an Army veteran. Tim Paige provides a thematic introduction to the podcast, emphasizing life’s unexpected veers.

Sheila starts the conversation by expressing her excitement about a prototype developed by her company. She details the adjustments being made, particularly focusing on its weight optimization. The discussion veers slightly into some comical banter about the challenges of receiving heavy deliveries.

The conversation shifts towards the main functionality of Sheila’s biomedical device, which aims to assist hospital patients with daily living activities through a technology similar to that used by autonomous vacuums. Jeff and Sheila discuss the tentative and experimental nature of this technology and its impact on healthcare workers and patients.

Their talk takes a reflective turn as Sheila recounts her personal history, including losing her scholarship due to academic challenges and her subsequent enlistment in the Army. The conversation explores the difficulties of balancing work, education, and military life, highlighting Sheila’s struggles and her decision to serve in the military after losing her academic funding.

Jeff digs deeper into Sheila’s military experience, discussing its highs and lows, and the significant adjustments required post-service. The discussion underlines the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life and how those experiences shape their perspectives and resilience.

Sheila shares anecdotes from her time in the Army, reflecting on how it prepared her for complex business challenges and her eventual role as a CEO and innovator. She also discusses her book, “Is This Seat For Me? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Everyday Life and Business,” detailing her experiences with imposter syndrome and her strategies for overcoming it.

The episode ends with a casual chat about advantages of military discipline, adaptability learned from military life, and its application in personal growth and business. Sheila concludes by highlighting the availability of her book and provides contact information for further engagement. Tim Paige wraps up the episode with closing remarks, inviting listeners to the Vroom Vroom Veer podcast website for more information.

Connections

Is this seat for me?

Buswell Biomedical

362 Jessica Ell
Jessica Ell – Embracing Change and Making Hard Choices

Jessica Ell – Embracing Change and Making Hard Choices

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:26 — 72.1MB)

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Jessica Ell is a Martha Beck-certified life coach who helps people make hard decisions.

From Jessica Ell.com About Page:

I’ve struggled with hard decisions my whole life (I’m an Enneagram 6 with an open Identity G Center in Human Design). “I don’t know” is the most truthful statement of my existence, but about this I am absolutely certain: unless someone has been there themselves, they can’t possibly understand the deep pain of indecision, ambivalence and reluctance. I’ve longed to be a “decisive” person who doesn’t debate and ruminate when I reach life’s crossroads.But I’m not that person, so over the years, I devised my own way of making decisions and relieving the pain and pressure of indecision.My method came largely out of walking away from “good on paper” things. Some of the hardest choices we make are the ones we don’t have to, like turning down scholarships at Top 10 law schools, leaving behind six-figure jobs, and the devastating choice of whether to call off a wedding (all of which I’ve done).I want to help you find relief from the endless debate.To find peace at life’s crossroads.And to finally decide, which in my world is shorthand for “flinging yourself into the mystery of the universe, knowing that you don’t know what’ll happen next, and that’s quite fine.” Because life is too grand an adventure to spend trapped by indecision.

Jessica Ell Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” hosted by Jeff Smith, the featured guest is Jessica Ell, a Martha Beck-certified life coach who specializes in helping people make challenging decisions. The episode opens with general announcements and introductions before Jeff warmly welcomes Jessica to the show.

Jessica shares insights into her profession, describing how she assists individuals dealing with difficult life choices, emphasizing both small and significant decisions. She mentions her excitement about a particular client session happening later in the day, demonstrating her passion for her work.

The conversation then veers towards personal backgrounds, where Jessica talks about growing up in the Midwest, her education, and the initial career paths she considered, including a fleeting interest in becoming a massage therapist or working in publishing. She discusses her academic prowess and the expectations set by her Asian heritage, which nudged her towards high achievement and conventional career success.

Jessica reveals a critical juncture in her life when she decided against attending law school, despite being accepted into several prestigious institutions with scholarships. This decision stemmed from deep self-reflection and uncertainty about her true desires, pushing her to explore other professional avenues.

The dialogue shifts to her subsequent life decisions and professional transitions, illustrating the real-life applications of “veering” — the central theme of the podcast. She elaborates on various roles she undertook, from working in nonprofit organizations to engaging in real estate and event management, each transition invited by opportunities that opened up unexpectedly.

Jessica’s story underscores themes of embracing uncertainty, listening to one’s inner voice, and finding faith in one’s path even when it diverges from expected or traditional routes. Both Jessica and Jeff reflect on the unpredictability of life and career paths, advocating for openness to change and personal growth.

The episode concludes with an exploration of Jessica’s current work and her advice on handling life’s unpredictable nature through coaching and personal empowerment. Potential clients can reach her through her website or Instagram, as mentioned at the close of the episode.

This story session serves as a powerful testament to the podcast’s theme of navigating life’s veers thoughtfully and courageously, affirming that every turn, whether expected or abrupt, contributes to one’s unique life narrative.

Connections

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361 Bruce Schutter
Bruce Schutter 2 Returns: New Insights on the Mental Health Warrior Program

Bruce Schutter 2 Returns: New Insights on the Mental Health Warrior Program

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 53:36 — 73.7MB)

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Bruce Schutter 2 returns to Vroom Vroom Veer to discuss what’s new with his Mental Health Warrior Program.After struggling with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorder and PTSD for over 20+ years, I reached a breaking point where I attempted suicide. But with a second chance at life, I set out to find an answer to my life’s challenges. I discovered that Mental Health is the key to triumphing over any challenge in life!Armed with this knowledge, I created the Mental Health Warrior Program, a new self-help approach for triumphing over life’s challenges and building the life you really want! At the core of the Mental Health Warrior Program lies the principle of self-empowerment. With practical solutions centered on lifestyle and mindset changes, the program empowers you to respond, not react, to life’s challenges, by tapping into your inner strength and resilience.

Bruce Schutter 2 Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of the “Vroom Vroom Veer” podcast, host Jeff Smith welcomes back guest Bruce Schutter to discuss updates and insights into his Mental Health Warrior Program. The episode starts with introductory remarks and a pre-recorded promotional bit by Charla Gervers, followed by a signature introduction from Tim Paige that nicely sets up the theme of navigating life’s veers.

Bruce Schutter engages in a detailed conversation about his personal journey with mental health challenges, notably his struggle with bipolar disorder and anxiety, which were undiagnosed well into his adult life. He candidly shares his experiences with self-medication through alcohol which he used to manage anxiety and stress stemming from his IT career and personal life. Bruce explains that it was only after facing life-threatening lows that he sought and embraced recovery, transforming his relationship with his mental health.

The conversation then transitions to Bruce’s Mental Health Warrior Program. He elucidates how understanding and managing emotions can become a formidable tool to navigate life’s complexities. Bruce emphasizes growth through embracing challenges as part of leveling up one’s mental health warrior skills. He shares principles from his program, such as the warrior creed “bend, not break,” which encapsulates the resilience one builds by engaging with the program.

Bruce also dives into the content of his nine books, each contributing a unique angle to coping strategies, from embracing minimalistic lifestyles to adjusting dietary habits that influence mental health. For example, he explains the significant mental clarity gained from reducing sugar intake as outlined in one of his books.

The episode wraps up with further discussions about the therapeutic impacts of simple actions, like swapping reactive behaviors with proactive responses, leaning into current moments to reduce worries about past or future, and various other mental health tools and techniques described in his books. Jeff and Bruce share personal anecdotes and laughs throughout, underlining the podcast’s intent to blend meaningful content with engaging storytelling.

In closing, Tim Paige thanks the audience for joining and directs them to the “Vroom Vroom Veer” website for more information, rounding off the episode with an invitation for listeners to keep tuning in for more unique experiences shared on the podcast.

Connections

Website

358 Peter J. Stavros
Peter J. Stavros – Transition from Law to Literature

Peter J. Stavros – Transition from Law to Literature

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:19 — 69.3MB)

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Peter J. Stavros is a writer and attorney in Louisville, Kentucky. His debut novel, The Thing About My Uncle, was released on August 20 by BHC Press. His work has also appeared in The Saturday Evening Post, The Boston Globe Magazine and Chicken Soup for the Soul.

Peter J. Stavros Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith welcomes Peter Stavros, a writer from Louisville, Kentucky who recently published his debut novel, “The Thing About My Uncle.” The episode begins with an introduction from Tim Paige, setting the stage for a discussion about steering away from a scripted life to embrace more fulfilling paths.

Peter discusses his journey from being an attorney to becoming a writer, a transition sparked by his profound life experiences and the challenges of aligning his legal career with his creative passions. He talks about his novel, which is set in Eastern Kentucky and revolves around a young boy sent to live with his reclusive uncle, unfolding family secrets and life-altering lessons.

Jeff and Peter delve into the intricacies of Peter’s novel, the inspiration behind his characters, and the setting that plays a crucial role in the story. They also explore Peter’s prior life as a lawyer, his educational background, and his reasons for shifting towards creative writing. Peter shares his experiences with illness and recovery, which played a significant role in rekindling his passion for writing.

Throughout the episode, they touch on the themes of unexpected life changes and the pursuit of passion despite fear and uncertainty. Peter highlights the importance of support from loved ones, like his wife, who helped him through his toughest times.

The episode concludes with Peter giving advice to listeners on persevering through rejection and failure, emphasizing the importance of resilience in creative pursuits and career changes. Jeff wraps up the episode encouraging listeners to visit Peter’s website and check out his literary works.

Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of how personal veers in life can lead to profound professional and creative fulfillment, as exemplified by Peter Stavros’ journey from law to literature.

Connections

Website

358 Kyle Coon
Kyle Coon – Cancer, Blindness, Mountain Climbing, Ironman, Paralympian

Kyle Coon – Cancer, Blindness, Mountain Climbing, Ironman, Paralympian

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:58 — 66.3MB)

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Kyle Coon Paralympian, Professional Speaker, Author, Exactly What to Say®️ Certified Guide. Cancer took my sight, blindness gave me vision, adventure lets me live.

Kyle Coon Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Kyle Coon is introduced with an energetic opening statement, alluding to viewers veering away from scripted lives to embrace more authentic ones. Kyle briefly discusses his most recent experiences, notably his return from France after a triathlon and his relief from the pressures of Paralympic games preparation.

The conversation shifts to Kyle’s early life, his cancer diagnosis at ten months, and his eventual loss of sight due to the treatments for his condition. Despite these challenges, Kyle shares his adventurous spirit, influenced by meeting blind adventure athlete Eric Weihenmayer. This meeting spurred his involvement in various adventure sports, from rock climbing to competitive outdoor activities.

Kyle’s journey into the Paralympics is also highlighted. Initially not a high-level athlete, Kyle found his calling in Ironman triathlons after a depressing period post-college, further switching to sprint triathlons for Paralympic competitions. These experiences led him to train harder than ever, utilizing high-altitude training advantages in Colorado Springs.

In terms of personal development, Kyle discusses his educational background and the impact of losing his sight on his worldview. The narrative then returns to his Paralympic adventures, discussing the intensive preparations and adjustments needed for peak performance in such a competitive arena.

Kyle also mentions the psychological elements of preparing for high-pressure competitions, drawing parallels between military tactics and sports strategy to manage the intense environment of the Paralympics.

The episode concludes with mention of Kyle’s podcast, “Kicking It With the K Train,” inviting listeners to follow his continued journey through various platforms, including Instagram and Facebook where he is active.

The recording wraps with a typical sign-off for the “Vroom Vroom Veer” podcast, leaving listeners with a vivid portrayal of Kyle Coon’s incredible journey through adversity, his Paralympic achievements, and life’s veers.

Connections

Website

357 Danny Covey
Danny Covey – From Heart Surgeries to Jiu-Jitsu Mastery: Journey of Resilience

Danny Covey – From Heart Surgeries to Jiu-Jitsu Mastery: Journey of Resilience

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:37 — 72.6MB)

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Danny Covey survived 8 heart surgeries — 4 of which were open-heart! He nearly died on the operating table 3 times. Despite being told he would never physically excel, I earned a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu. His story is one of resilience, healing, and most importantly, HOPE.

Danny Covey Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of Vroom Vroom Veer, hosted by Jeff Smith, guest Danny Covey shares his extraordinary life journey marked by multiple heart surgeries and a passion for Jiu-Jitsu that defied medical expectations. The episode commences with an introduction by Tim Paige, highlighting the podcast’s theme about navigating life’s unexpected turns.

As the conversation begins, Jeff warmly welcomes Danny, who jests that any day without heart surgery is a great day. Danny shares insights into his business excitement centered around a new book that details his resilience through eight heart surgeries and his surprising journey to earning a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu.

Jeff and Danny reflect on memorable incidents from Danny’s childhood before his first memory of surgery, painting a vivid picture of his early challenges. Danny discusses his perilous surgeries, including one at 18 months and another major operation at age eight, where he vividly recalled the events leading up to it and the subsequent procedures.

The discussion veers to a lighter note as Danny explains his venture into martial arts, spurred by a successful heart valve replacement that significantly enhanced his health. This change allowed him to start training in karate and later Jiu-Jitsu, which became a major part of his life, despite ongoing health challenges that included a life-threatening aortic aneurysm emergency during a routine surgery in 2017.

Further into the episode, Jeff and Danny explore themes of resilience and recovery, specially focusing on Danny’s comeback to Jiu-Jitsu and earning his black belt post-recovery, cementing his journey of overcoming the odds.

The episode also gives insight into Danny’s creative and personal life, discussing his venture into the arts and how his life experiences influenced his creative outputs, including innovative Christmas cards which have become a cherished tradition in his family.

Towards the end of the podcast, the conversation shifts back to Danny’s ongoing health struggles, his approach to handling new challenges, and his commitment to staying active within the limitations of his condition.

The episode wraps with Danny sharing ways to connect with him and purchase his book, offering encouragement and inspiration to listeners facing their own life veers, concluding with Tim Paige signing off.

Connections

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356 Dr. Ashley Smith
Dr. Ashley Smith Navigating Life’s Veers: Strategies for a Bold Happy Life

Dr. Ashley Smith Navigating Life’s Veers: Strategies for a Bold Happy Life

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 53:49 — 74.2MB)

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Dr. Ashley Smith is a licensed clinical psychologist, speaker, author, and co-founder of Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength. She is passionate about using psychology and applied neuroscience to help people live bold, happy lives.

Dr. Ashley Smith Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” Jeff Smith opens with a warm welcome to Dr. Ashley Smith, after an insightful introduction by Tim Paige on the show’s theme of embracing the veers in life. Dr. Ashley Smith, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in anxiety disorders, shares both professional insights and personal stories. She discusses her work in psychology and neuroscience, detailing her involvement with Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength, a venture she co-founded to make psychological tools more accessible beyond academic and therapy settings.

Jeff and Ashley delve into various topics, including handling life’s challenges, understanding how our brains can act as barriers to happiness, and leveraging mindfulness to lead a better life. Ashley shares her personal journey, dealing with vision impairment, and how she has turned personal trials into professional triumphs, adapting her life to focus on what truly brings happiness. They discuss the importance of understanding the mind’s functionality, which often prioritizes survival over happiness, and how one can train themselves to foster happiness by nurturing a different relationship with their thoughts and emotions.

Ashley also shares her experiences of shifting from traditional clinical practice to virtual sessions, emphasizing the advantages it presents for both her professional and personal growth. She talks about how embracing changes and confronting fears has helped her live a more fulfilling life. The episode concludes with both hosts reflecting on the beauty of being here in the moment and the importance of continually seeking personal satisfaction over external accomplishments.

Listeners are directed to Ashley’s resources and contacts for further engagement, making it clear how insightful and practical her contributions to psychology and personal happiness are. Jeff Smith closes the episode, ensuring the audience is left with meaningful strategies to navigate their life’s veers.

Connections

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355 Dr Jenny Tufenkian
Dr. Jenny Tufenkian Personal Health Journeys and Professional Insights

Dr. Jenny Tufenkian Personal Health Journeys and Professional Insights

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:14 — 76.3MB)

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Dr. Jenny Tufenkian, a licensed Naturopathic Physician with two decades of experience, specializes in empowering health-conscious professionals to conquer long COVID and ME/CFS fatigue. Her personal battle with chronic fatigue inspired her to uncover its root causes, leading to the creation of a transformative system that addresses the five core root causes of Chronic Fatigue/ME. This approach helps those overwhelmed by exhaustion regain their energy and vitality, allowing them to fully embrace life once again.

Combining a thorough functional medical approach with deep subconscious work, Dr. Tufenkian’s method facilitates significant shifts in both physical and energetic well-being. She believes in a holistic healing process that integrates the physical, mental/emotional, and energetic dimensions, emphasizing the body’s inherent ability to be vital.

Dr. Tufenkian earned her medical degree and completed her residency at the National University of Natural Medicine. She is also a mom of two, happily married and loves her time outdoors and in the kitchen.

Dr. Jenny Tufenkian Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

This episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” hosted by Jeff Smith features Dr. Jenny Tufenkian, a licensed Naturopathic Physician. The episode opens with a pre-recording blunder involving an Outlook notification interruption, followed by the proper introduction by Tim Paige, emphasizing the podcast’s theme of shifting away from a scripted life.

Jeff introduces Dr. Jenny Tufenkian, jokingly stumbling over her name, and starts by asking about her current excitement in her practice. Dr. Tufenkian shares her passion for helping patients with long-term undiagnosed conditions like chronic fatigue and long COVID. She emphasizes the importance of interacting with patients ready to actively engage in their healing process.

The conversation evolves into a more personal narrative as Dr. Tufenkian reflects on her own health issues, including long COVID and myalgic encephalitis. She describes the onset of her condition next a bout of food poisoning and a later COVID-19 infection. Dr. Tufenkian vividly details her symptoms and the significant impact they had on her life and professional activities.

The discussion veers into Dr. Tufenkian’s past, exploring her transformative years during high school and college. She shares anecdotes about her unconventional dress sense, advocacy for peace, and academic challenges, particularly with algebra. These stories segue into her early interest in health, marked by her choice to become a vegetarian and her proactive approach to nutritional balance.

The podcast takes a deeper dive as Jeff and Dr. Tufenkian discuss broader health-related topics, like the importance of diet on mental and physical health, societal impacts of communal eating habits, and the potential transformative effect of improving institutional food services. They highlight the crucial role of gut health and how mainstream medical opinions are gradually acknowledging its importance.

As the episode closes, Dr. Tufenkian provides information about her professional services, outlining how she can help people regain their energy and manage their health conditions through various programs at her practice. Jeff expresses his enjoyment of the conversation, noting how much he learned and appreciated the discussion.

Tim Paige wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to check the podcast’s website for more information and to tune in next time.

Overall, the episode provides a mix of personal anecdotes, in-depth medical insights, and a holistic view of health, embodying the podcast’s theme of veering towards a more authentic and insightful life.

Connections

Website

354 Staci B
Staci B Navigating Life with Nervous System Regulation

Staci B Navigating Life with Nervous System Regulation

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:55 — 70.5MB)

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From Staci B’s About page:

The stress from complex trauma and undiagnosed neurodivergence, along with serving as a caregiver for over a decade, pushed Staci b’s nervous system into a continuous state of high alert. Determined not to let her fate be eternal survival mode, she embarked on a journey that led her to become a Nervous System Regulation Evangelist.

With hundreds of hours of research under her belt, staci translates complex science into easily digestible information and points the way to valuable resources that empower others to create a nervous system regulation practice that works best for them.

A journalist, author, and speaker, Staci highlights the value of nervous system regulation by openly sharing her own stories, both in person and in The Nervous System: Before and After, an essay series on her Substack, Inanna’s Journal.

By providing real-life examples of her own behavior in situations and relationships before she began a nervous system regulation practice and after, she illustrates the depth of the benefits available from this work.

A sought-after podcast guest and speaker, she credits nervous system regulation as the foundation that frees her to live her destiny and not her fate.

Staci B Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

Jeff warmly welcomes Staci, who immediately shares a recent unsettling incident—a verbal attack from a stranger, highlighting her ability to handle such events thanks to her tools for nervous system regulation. The conversation naturally delves into the topics of personal security, the usefulness of secondary phone numbers via Google Voice, and strategies to protect one’s privacy.

The dialogue continues to unpack Staci’s expertise in nervous system regulation. She shares insights from her own experiences and stresses the significance of understanding and regulating one’s nervous system to improve overall well-being. The hosts discuss the therapeutic practices and the importance of recognizing physiological responses to stress.

Staci also discusses her upcoming book re-release, which invites deeper into the discussion of personal growth, the costs of pursuing dreams, and the challenges and resilience in face of adversity and trauma. Staci explains her role as a “nervous system regulation evangelist,” promoting a deeper understanding of self-regulation and advocating for mental health awareness and understanding.

In an extended, heartfelt segment, they explore societal behaviors, personal anecdotes about dealing with life’s randomness and unexpected events, and the role that personal regulation plays in healthily managing responses to life’s events. They touch upon the cultural shifts in understanding neurodivergence and the personal and societal impacts of gaining better control over one’s nervous responses.

Jeff and Staci’s engaging dialogue, mixed with personal stories and actionable advice, guides the listener through understanding how conscious regulation of the nervous system can not only manage immediate stressors but also lead to a more fulfilling and controlled life path. The episode wraps up encouraging listeners to explore and practice methods of self-regulation, promoting both websites and online communities that focus on supporting individuals in their journey toward better mental health and awareness.

Connections and Links

Staci’s Website

Autism Questionnaire

the epigenetics study

Our PolyVagual World by Stephen Porges

The Octopus Movement

Stephen Porges Website

353 Viral Gor
Viral Gor aka Virus the Poet – Reading Between the Lines

Viral Gor aka Virus the Poet – Reading Between the Lines

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 45:34 — 62.8MB)

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VIRAL GOR, widely known as VIRUS THE POET, is an award-winning Canadian poet and author of Poetry is Motion: Mind, Body & Soul who travels globally to perform on large stages throughout Toronto, Paris, London, San Francisco, Miami, NYC, and more. He received a national award for his poem “Home,” which was later published by the Poetry Institute of Canada. His poetry touches on universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience.

Viral Gor Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” hosted by Jeff Smith, guest Viral Gor, also known as Virus the Poet, joins the conversation. The episode kicks off with Jeff initiating the recording, followed by introductions by host introducer, Tim Paige, and guest intro misstep and re-introduction by Risa August.

Jeff Smith then formally welcomes Viral Gor to the show, leading into a dialogue about Viral’s recent projects, including his book “Poetry is Motion” and a corresponding album on Spotify. Viral discusses the therapeutic and reflective nature of his writing and how his poetry aims at provoking thought and offering relatability and motivation. He emphasizes the intention behind his poetry to invoke deeper reflection on personal experiences and emotions.

The conversation then transitions into Viral’s background, including his upbringing in Toronto, which he credits for exposing him to diverse perspectives that enriched his character and creative output. He shares his unexpected journey into poetry, initially spurred by a classroom assignment and later cultivated during his college commutes, where he found solace and creative expression through writing on his Blackberry.

Viral reflects on his transition from casual writing to professional poetry, driven by the realization that his work resonated with others and had a meaningful impact. As the chat progresses, he discusses the nuances of poetry as an art form, focusing on the importance of message subtlety and the interpretative nature of poetry that invites readers to find personal meaning and provoke thought.

Further in the episode, Jeff explores Viral’s process and personal connection to his topics. Viral elucidates on the creation of his seminal poem “Home” and the deeper exploration of family dynamics it involves. This leads to discussing the realities of familial relationships and the personal growth that comes from such introspections.

The episode shifts slightly to discuss Viral’s experiences with public readings and his first reservations about performing on stage. He recounts his first public poetry reading and how later performances have contributed to his confidence and refinement in sharing his work publicly.

Jeff and Viral dive deeper into the artistic elements of poetry, its therapeutic potential, and its impact on both the writer and the audience. Viral stresses the significance of authenticity and emotional truth in writing, which enhances connection and relatability.

As the episode wraps up, Viral talks about his aspirations for future projects, including a second book and more performance opportunities, underscoring his commitment to spreading his poetic influence and engaging with broader audiences.

The episode concludes with Jeff thanking Viral for his insights and contribution to the show, and Tim Paige rounds off with final remarks and directs listeners to the show notes for more information.

Connections

Website

352 Risa August
Risa August – Life without Limits

Risa August – Life without Limits

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:26 — 66.7MB)

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Risa August is an award-winning author, speaker, and Gestalt Practitioner. Risa is also living with a rare pituitary tumor and she inspires audiences and clients alike. Former Ironman athlete, she opened up to a world of possibilities, exploring various styles of dance, aerial silks, boxing, and embracing life with curiosity and vigor. Risa’s personal journey exemplifies overcoming limits and living fully…unleashed.

Risa August Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Felt like an old soul and didn’t really fit in with any groups; got a job at age 14 and just wanted High School to be over

Did two years of business college at Kent State but really wanted to study Archeology but of course that wouldn’t make any money

Followed a guy to Maine, ditched that dude but discovered a whole new world of backpacking and outdoor life

Ended up getting a degree in Geography and got a job with an engineering outfit

Got married and tried to squeeze into a mold that really didn’t fit her; she was also helping at her husbands business on the weekends and working Monday – Friday, so no days off

Finally moved out of PA and moved to Colorado by this time she is doing Ironman races and 500 mile bike trips for fun

Spent about 8 years being dismissed my her family practice doctor; then one day insisted that she get an MRI for headaches because she knew something was wrong

When the doctor told her that she had a tumor and a disease and the tumor had to come out; she went right into denial

Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” titled “Unleashing Life Beyond Limits with Risa August,” host Jeff Smith engages with the award-winning author, speaker, and Gestalt practitioner, Risa August. The conversation kicks off with a bit of humor as Jeff initially mispronounces Risa’s name, which she corrects politely. Moving forward, they delve into the heart of the discussion, where Risa shares the intriguing aspects of her journey both professionally and personally.

Risa explains her transformation into a Gestalt practitioner in 2019, which significantly expanded her horizons in coaching, complemented further by her achievements as an author and a motivational speaker. She expresses deep emotional connection when describing the impact of her book, which has won several awards and prompts heartwarming feedback from readers worldwide.

A large part of the conversation pivots around Risa’s experiences living with a rare pituitary tumor, her trials and tribulations as an Ironman athlete, and how these challenges veered her life down unexpected paths numerous times. Risa’s narrative is one of overcoming limits and persistent adaptation, embracing new experiences like various styles of dance, aerial silks, and boxing.

Jeff compares the non-financial aspects of success and joy generated from pursuing passions, which includes a short segment on financial independence and managing money effectively through available resources like the financial independence retire early movement and Mr. Money Mustache.

Shifting towards a more personal exploration, the conversation takes the audience back to Risa’s high school years, her early independence, and brief engagement with sports before moving into a contemplative phase about her identity and place in life during different stages.

Risa also discusses the significant transition and the harsh realization of her medical condition which was diagnosed late despite her proactive attempts. This leads to a poignant reflection of her challenging journey through brain surgery, and the subsequent struggle with her health as medications failed to curb the growth hormone production due to her tumor.

A significant veer in her life narrative was her decision to embrace life fully, post-recovery, marked by an ambitious 1800-mile bike ride which she signed up for, underscoring her philosophy of living boldly despite adversities. This ride represented not just a physical challenge but a metaphoric journey of emotional and mental resilience and healing.

The episode wraps up with Risa encouraging others to connect with her through her website and social media, promoting her book which details her compelling life story filled with perseverance and an undefeated zest for life. Jeff concludes the podcast with an appreciation of Risa’s incredible journey and perspectives they shared, underlining the core theme of the podcast about navigating life’s veers with courage and insight.

Connections

Website

351 Steve Acho
Steve Acho – Find the Essential. Let go of the Trivial.

Steve Acho – Find the Essential. Let go of the Trivial.

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:40 — 71.5MB)

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Steve Acho is a keynote speaker, business owner/coach, author, musician, athlete, tech enthusiast, and self-described “lunatic” for human performance. His passion is sharing actionable wisdom, perspectives, and tactics to enhance the quality of as many lives as possible.

Steve Acho Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” hosted by Jeff Smith, the show opens with Tony Schmaltz playfully reminding listeners to “wake up” followed by Jeff commenting on a small error Tony made. The show’s proper introduction is provided by Tim Paige, emphasizing the podcast’s theme of navigating life changes and shifting paths.

Jeff Smith warmly welcomes Steve Acho, a multi-talented individual involved in business, music, coaching, and more. The conversation kicks off with Jeff asking Steve about what he’s currently excited about. Steve discusses the challenging nature of defining what he does due to the diverse range of his activities. He shares his excitement about releasing a new song and the potential collaboration with Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter’s charity to use another one of his songs as a charity theme.

Steve’s conversation further veers into the subjects of his upcoming TED Talk and a crucial business call he has lined up, both opportunities that could significantly influence his career. He talks about his philosophy of being a “delusional optimist” and the importance of maintaining resilience and self-belief in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels with being an NFL quarterback who must trust himself amidst adversity.

Moving into personal anecdotes and a broader discussion on lifestyle and culture, Steve recounts his educational and professional experiences in Japan, highlighting how cultural immersion affected his work and personal growth. He discusses the benefits of minimalistic living and working out, relaying how these practices contribute to his day-to-day fulfillment.

The episode concludes with Jeff transitioning back to discuss Steve’s early life and how he grew up, which further delves into his experiences in Japan in more depth, providing insights into cross-cultural understanding and practical application in international business and everyday interactions.

Throughout their chat, both Steve and Jeff exchange views on self-improvement, the importance of satisfying one’s curiosity, and finding meaningful engagement in various aspects of life, emphasizing a theme of holistic development and personal growth. The episode wraps up with reminders of the podcast’s aim and thanks to the listeners for joining the journey of unexpected and enlightening life veers.

Connections

Website

350 Tony Schmaltz
Tony Schmaltz – Create Possibilities and Results in Work and Life

Tony Schmaltz – Create Possibilities and Results in Work and Life

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:37 — 84.0MB)

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Tony Schmaltz is a motivational speaker, author, personal and business coach, trainer, husband, father, fisherman and Schmaltzy Guy. His specialty is getting people out of their own way, so they can have the life and be the person they want to be, living their best life.

Tony Schmaltz Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

This episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer” features a discussion between host Jeff Smith and guest Tony Schmaltz, a motivational speaker and personal coach. They delve into the dynamics of major life changes and personal growth.

The conversation begins with Tony discussing his excitement about helping people transcend their current situations to achieve their desired life states. He outlines his work in various aspects of life such as relationships, finances, and personal development. Jeff then relates with his own informal experiences of helping people and talks about his humorous idea of creating a website “personal development for drunk people.”

Tony shares his backstory, starting with his childhood in Enumclaw, Washington, a small dairy town conducive to an outdoor lifestyle. The narrative shifts to his high school years, his participation in sports, and his affinity for the German language which branded him as ‘Schmaltzy’ during a trip to Germany, a nickname he later adopted professionally for its unique touch.

The discussion transitions to Tony’s work experience post-high school, highlighting his time at a steel foundry and then a plating shop. Tony’s personal life is touched upon with the romantic story of how he met his wife, Anika, on a blind date followed by the major impact of moving to Florida just prior to Hurricane Michael. This event was a significant veer in his life, influencing his decision to pursue personal coaching professionally.

Tony’s shift in his career from traditional employment to personal coaching is outlined, emphasizing the struggles and fulfillment found in transitioning to a career that aligns more with his passions. His coaching philosophy centers on enabling clients to navigate their personal veers successfully.

Throughout the episode, Tony and Jeff exchange stories of their youthful escapades, discuss the impact of personal choices, and reflect on how life’s unexpected turns can lead to growth and new opportunities. The episode winds down with Jeff and Tony exchanging views on philosophy, personal growth, and navigating life’s unexpected changes.

Ultimately, this episode provides listeners with insights into the importance of embracing life changes, recognizing personal growth opportunities, and the value of steering one’s life towards authenticity and fulfillment.

Connections

Website

349 Mark Jordan
Mark Jordan – Men in Pursuit of Progress not Perfection

Mark Jordan – Men in Pursuit of Progress not Perfection

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:16 — 75.2MB)

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Mark Jordan, founder of Unravel Groups, is a veteran entrepreneur and mentor with a background in investment banking, real estate acquisitions, and financial services. Mark, who holds both a BSBA and an MBA, has authored multiple books, established three companies, and been a part of starting two churches. He leverages his extensive experience in corporate and non-profit sectors to lead men toward transformational growth in their spiritual, relational, and vocational lives through Unravel Groups.Designed to support men from diverse backgrounds, Unravel offers both individual and group programs that emphasize personal development rooted in progress, not perfection.Mark is passionate about exploring the world with his family and has visited six of the seven continents. This zest for life and discovery enhances his mentorship, reinforcing his dedication to the pursuit of excellence and values such as integrity, leadership, and service.

Mark Jordan Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Arkansas and his parents were very young when they had him; he had a sibling like relationship with a cousin close to his age; spent most of his time on a lawn care business and playing football

Started his first business after graduate school and was fortunate to have a mentor who changed his life; he took him under his wing and showed him the ropes

He had a skill of setting up meetings with important business contacts and his boss would then run the mini presentation with the easel and butcherblock flip over paper; one day his boss told him to give the presentation and Mark was not ready–he got through it, but learned a valuable lessons about taking notes and getting ready to move forward

His faith is now the wrap around element that is an everyday experience that informs how he shows up to serve people in his groups and random people as well

Jeff tells a story about how a Army Captain told him to re-enlist because he had $12k of debt and no clue what to do next and the made Jeff a “Dickweed”

Jeff met another Sergeant in the Air Force about 3 times for 15 minutes each time; in those 3 interactions Jeff learned how to get out of Debt and Invest his money

Show Summary

This podcast episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” hosted by Jeff Smith, features guest Mark Jordan, the founder of Unravel Groups. The episode kicks off with an introduction from Tim Paige, emphasizing the show’s theme of steering towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. Jeff warmly welcomes Mark to the show, initiating a friendly exchange that sets the tone for the conversation.

Mark Jordan discusses Unravel Groups, focusing on its role in equipping men for leadership and excellence through small group environments. He expresses his passion for helping men step out of the status quo and pursue excellence, backed by an exciting environment at Unravel Groups that fosters life-changing stories and camaraderie.

The conversation shifts slightly to personal anecdotes as Jeff Smith recalls his experiences at deer hunting camp, using it to draw parallels with the camaraderie and life changes Mark witnesses in his groups. The discussion segues into Mark’s love for snow skiing and his background in Arkansas, where he was not particularly interested in traditional hunting and fishing.

Jeff and Mark delve into Mark’s past, exploring his upbringing in Arkansas, his educational journey through university and graduate school, and his subsequent move to Texas and Atlanta. This narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Mark’s professional life and his commitment to mentoring and leadership, elements central to the mission of Unradding Groups.

The conversation is very back-and-forth, with both sharing personal stories and laughing together, which underscores the theme of navigating and veering through life based on unique experiences and decisions. The episode wraps up with Jeff thanking Mark for his sharing and insights, tying back to the show’s theme of navigating life’s veers.

The episode, while rich with conversation and personal sharing, strongly centers on the development of Unravel Groups and Mark’s journey of fostering environments where men can grow in leadership and personal excellence.

Connections

Website

348 Kimberly J. Ward (1)
Kimberly J. Ward – Writer, Gardner, Traveler…not a Sailor

Kimberly J. Ward – Writer, Gardner, Traveler…not a Sailor

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:15 — 96.0MB)

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Kimberly J. Ward says: “As we sailed out of our cove, our home behind us and the complete unknown ahead, I couldn’t help thinking that I was leaving everything I knew and loved—with the exception of Michael and Ally. Talk about being pushed past my comfort zone in just about every direction.I am a traveler, adventurer and gardener. Not a sailor. Yet, a decade ago, my husband, our 10-year-old daughter, and I moved aboard our 34-foot boat for two years and sailed from Massachusetts to Grenada and back. In my first book, Crew of Three: How Bold Dreams and Detailed Plans Launched Our Family’s Sailing Adventure, published in August, I show how meticulous planning enabled us to escape from the constraints of our everyday life. Part memoir, part instruction manual, I share the story of our decision to go, the two years of planning to make it work, plus the first several months we lived aboard”.

Kimberly J. Ward Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Very involved in athletics in High School and preparing for college

Studied English and marketing in college; never shared any of her writing publicly

Became a bank manager in her early 20’s and thought “Is this it?” Am I going to retire a bank manager? Nope.

Learned everything there is to know about Human Resources before there were “Information Systems” to help, so using spreadsheets

Went looking for a job and kept seeing H.R.I.S and she didn’t know what that was…

Got a job with Oracle who was developing a HRIS and didn’t have anyone with HR experience…nice fit!

Met her husband who was a sailor working as a consultant; they got married and had their daughter on the fast track

9/11 played a role in both their lives; It hit home for both Kimberly and her husband who were a little too close for comfort

After returning from their big adventure on the boat out in the world she felt she finally had a story worth writing about

Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith is joined by guest Kimberly J. Ward, who shares her intriguing story of transitioning from corporate life to an adventurous sailing journey with her family. The episode begins with an introduction to the podcast’s theme about veering away from a frenzied and scripted life to explore more authentic experiences.

Jeff welcomes Kimberly and kicks off the conversation by discussing her new book, “Crew of Three: How Bold Dreams and Detailed Plans Launched Our Family’s Sailing Adventure.” Kimberly talks about how meticulous planning helped her family escape everyday life constraints, detailing their journey from Massachusetts to Grenada and back over two years aboard a 34-foot boat.

The discussion delves into Kimberly’s background, growing up in Alexandria, Virginia, and her career movements before the family’s big sailing adventure. She talks about her work in human resources and the skills she gained from it, which later became instrumental in planning their sailing trip.

Jeff explores Kimberly’s motivations and the origins of her adventure, touching on how she and her husband Michael, along with their daughter Ally, prepared and adjusted to life on the water. Kimberly shares the challenges and the rewarding experiences, such as homeschooling her daughter aboard the boat and encountering natural beauty along their route.

Kimberly also discusses the decision-making process involved in planning the trip, emphasizing the importance of family agreement and mutual support. She highlights how the journey profoundly influenced their values and lifestyle, pushing them past their comfort zones into a more minimalistic and meaningful life.

The conversation concludes with Kimberly discussing the process of re-adjusting to life after their adventure, her shift towards writing, and how the experience continues to shape her life. Jeff wraps up by inviting listeners to check out Kimberly’s book and follow her journey through her writings on her website.

Listeners are left with insights into how dramatic lifestyle changes can lead to profound personal growth and transformation, fitting into the overarching theme of the podcast about life’s significant veers.

Connections

Website

347 Kim Keane
Kim Keane – Childhood trauma/abuse, therapy, holistic alternatives

Kim Keane – Childhood trauma/abuse, therapy, holistic alternatives

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:50 — 71.8MB)

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Kim Keane says: “After leaving my teaching career, I was struggling with the loss of my identity as a teacher. I decided to seek the help of a therapist but felt worse since the trauma of being a teen domestic violence survivor along with childhood trauma and generational trauma I experienced was dredged up repeatedly. On top of it there was a relenting pressure to take antidepressants to be able to cope with it all. It wasn’t until I started using holistic alternatives such as Reiki, meditation, and crystals in conjunction with life coaching that I was truly able to leave the failure of my teaching career behind and break free from the trauma in my past. I became a certified life coach and sound healer, Reiki master, EFT, and IET practitioner to be able to help others break free from obstacles that are holding them back and would love to the opportunity to be able to share my story with your audience”.

Kim Keane Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Delaware which is near Philly and Baltimore but nobody knows where it is

Suffered all matter of abuse and trauma with a boyfriend starting at age 15

Found the power to quit the relationship after she found out he got his other girlfriend pregnant; he still barged into her house punched her in the stomach and spit in her face

Didn’t really deal with that trauma until after she ended her teaching career–she did 2 years of therapy but her therapist was not really a great fit

The same therapist suggested mediation and yoga and Kim is thankful for that because it was her entry point into all things holistic

Bought a 300 year old house in Pennsylvania, she is working to turn it into a retreat center; she has to clear the dead trees out of the pond and convince the bats to leave the barn

Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith converses with guest Kim Keane about her transformational journey from enduring significant traumas to discovering holistic healing methods that reshaped her life. Kim shares her story, detailing her struggles after leaving a teaching career and grappling with her identity, alongside past traumas including domestic violence from her teenage years. Her initial conventional therapy brought back painful memories and imposed pressure to use antidepressants, which did not resonate with her needs.

Seeking alternative solutions, Kim turned to holistic practices like Reiki, meditation, crystals, and eventually life coaching. These elements played a pivotal role in helping her navigate past her traumas, eventually leading her to become a certified life coach and practitioner of various healing modalities, including sound healing and Reiki.

The episode delves into how Kim’s teaching career came to an abrupt end due to burnout, igniting an identity crisis that led her deeper into her healing journey. She discusses her engagement with therapy, which initially revolved around revisiting distressing memories and coping with labels given by her therapist. Kim found traditional therapy methods somewhat lacking, as they did not equip her with the necessary tools to manage her ongoing challenges effectively.

The discussion transitions into how Kim embraced holistic practices. She describes her transformative experience at a holistic festival, which opened her doors to Reativity and other energy healing practices. The impacts of these practices were profound, providing her relief and insights that traditional methods had failed to deliver.

Additionally, Kim compares her experiences with therapy and life coaching, emphasizing how life coaching offered more direct approaches to managing present challenges without dwelling excessively on past experiences.

Throughout the episode, there is an interplay of personal insights and lighthearted moments, such as discussions about past lives, the challenges and revelations brought by meditation and yoga, and envisioning future projects like turning her property’s barn into a retreat center.

The episode encapsulates the theme of navigating life’s veers through alternative healing and self-discovery, embodying the essence of “Vroom Vroom Veer” by showcasing a profound journey of veering destructively before finding a fulfilling path forward.

Connections

Website

346 Kevin Roth
Kevin Roth – Dulcimer Artist, Singer, Author, Cancer Survivor, Coach

Kevin Roth – Dulcimer Artist, Singer, Author, Cancer Survivor, Coach

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:57 — 78.8MB)

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Kevin Roth is a renowned dulcimer artist, singer, author, and songwriter. He has recorded 65 albums, won numerous awards, and sang the theme to the hit PBS TV show Shining Time Station.

His life was transformed in 2015 when he was told he had stage-three melanoma and only a couple of years to live, he had a choice: get busy living or accept dying. Somehow, despite an amazing music career, Kevin had always found it difficult to simply be happy. He’d had a wake-up call, and he decided to do something about it. He envisioned a new, fun, and fulfilling life and set about making the necessary changes. Now, he wants to help you do the same.

Kevin Roth Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Philly up to the age of 13, great place to grow up with many cool neighborhoods to hang out

Started his music career at age 16! Learned piano by ear in as a young child

Was told that his kind of Melanoma gave him a 70% chance of coming back after his surgery and if that did come back he would be dead in 2 years; he didn’t believe that and it turned out to be not true, but he did need to change his life and heal his body

He moved from Kanas to SoCal near San Diego and found a apartment he could afford even though everyone told him he couldn’t find a place for $1000/month but he did

He healed his body by losing weight mostly by paying down $83K in debt; he paid a lawyer a couple hundred dollars and got the credit company to cut his debt in half; then he negoiated a payment plan to pay down the rest of the debt

Found “Section 8” housing in California that turns out to be subsised by the governemnt to provide low cost housing for those 55 and older

His music career got a real jolt from recording the theme song for the hit PBS TV show “Shining Time Station” based on Thomas the Tank Engine

In 2016 he started working as a life coach giving people practical advice from a point of view of non-dualism; Kevin explains that this life is much like a movie and when we die maybe we just start watching a new movie

He made a video on YouTube where he asked God who he was…the response was 83K views and 604 comments that were mostly positive.

Show Summary

This episode of Vroom Vroom Veer begins with a brief intro by host Jeff Smith, after a lighthearted exchange with Angela Tipton. Tim Paige provides a narrative introduction to the show, emphasizing the theme of navigating life’s changes and the unique stories of guests who steer their lives in fulfilling directions.

Jeff introduces Kevin Roth, setting the stage for a detailed discussion. Kevin, located in Southern California, talks about his allergy difficulties due to local conditions, contrasting it with Jeff’s experiences in Las Vegas.

Kevin dives into his multifaceted career, explaining his transition from a musician to a life coach consultant, highlighting his niche in using dulcimer music as a therapeutic tool in what he calls ‘dulcimeditation.’ He also mentions his satirical take on spirituality with his ‘Guru Puppet.’

As the conversation progresses, Kevin recounts his geographical and career transitions, discussing his past residences and how regional cultural differences influenced his life and work. They touch on the distinct vibes of various locations, with brief mentions of Kevin’s experiences in Philadelphia and his connections to the entertainment industry in LA.

Jeff redirects the conversation towards Kevin’s past, touching on his early life, his musical influences, and brief yet meaningful anecdotes about his formative years. Kevin talks about his journey into and through the world of music and the personal and career growth he experienced along the way.

The dialogue veers into deeper waters as Kevin discusses overcoming a serious melanoma diagnosis, detailing his emotional and physical battles and eventual recovery, which was closely tied to significant life changes and a shift towards a more fulfilling lifestyle. He elaborates on his approach to living a stress-free and meaningful life by blending science, spirituality, and personal well-being.

Jeff and Kevin delve into Kevin’s significant moments in his musical career, including his contributions to children’s entertainment and his partnerships with major media companies, complementing this with discussions about the evolution of his coaching and spiritual teaching endeavors.

The episode winds down with reflection on personal growth, spiritual realization, and Kevin’s strategies for dealing with life’s challenges and leveraging personal experiences to guide and teach others. Kevin offers advice on managing complications like financial debt and stress, illustrating the benefits of practical and mindful living.

The conversation concludes with a focus on the impacts of Kevin’s life coaching and his ongoing artistic pursuits, emphasizing the profound influence of personal authenticity and life management on overall happiness and contentment. Jeff wraps up the episode, maintaining focus on life’s unpredictable ‘veers’ and the lessons they provide.

Connections

KevinRoth.org

345 Angela Tipton
Angela Tipton – Live life on your own Terms

Angela Tipton – Live life on your own Terms

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:24 — 64.2MB)

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Angela Tipton at 19 years of age, was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, yet she refused to let her chronic illness define her. Ambitious and career-driven, Angela built a successful career with various Fortune 500 companies.

While building her career, she maximized her income, made significant financial investments, and paid off $85K of student debt in 18 months. While optimizing her savings, she learned to live below her means so that she could live life on her terms.

Angela started her first business in 2017, and today focuses her efforts on helping people achieve financial freedom through their careers at FIREYourCareer.com. She’s passionate about building a career to fuel a FIRE lifestyle because she believes that everyone deserves to live life on their terms. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, running, and traveling. Angela lives in Salem, Oregon with her husband and two little boys.

Angela Tipton Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in New York and started having stomach issues at age 15, doctors didn’t know what it was…was it in her head?; finally at age 19 was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and they were eventually able to find a treatment that kept her in remission

Studied biology in school and graduated during the great recession when it was difficult to find any jobs; she did a lot of “any” jobs and finally landed a Temp job in her field which open the doors to future lab jobs

Worked with Dow and Bayer and got to travel to the Netherlands and India for work

When she was thinking about grad school an MBA somehow became possible instead of more science; she realized working head down in a lab wasn’t the best fit for her personality; she wrote a fantasy novel and realized she really like writing and communicating more than lab work

Had a wake up call during a meeting with the family accountant; she realized they paid $5k on student loan interest; the A-ha moment for Angela was that could have been a cruise if they paid down that debt sooner rather than later

Most folks in the FIRE community are not talking about how to use your career (job) to work toward fire; they are talking about house hacking; rental income; etc, but those ideas may not fit all people; if you have a job or a career you can totally work toward Financial Independence

Show Summary

In this episode of “Vroom Vroom Veer,” host Jeff Smith kicks off the show with excitement, emphasizing the podcast’s theme of shifting from autopilot life to one full of authentic redirections, veers, and significant changes. His guest for the episode is Angela Tipton, the founder of FIREYourCareer.com.

Angela discusses her enthusiasm for helping others live inspired lives on their terms, stating that her website primarily focuses on using careers to achieve financial independence. This allows people to enjoy their time and lives freely. Jeff agrees, noting the value of reaching financial independence early, although he mentions that this community often doesn’t extensively discuss the intricacies of escaping debt.

The conversation shifts to Angela’s personal story, with Jeff bringing up Angela’s early life challenges, particularly her diagnosis with Crohn’s disease at nineteen after showing symptoms at fifteen. Angela shares how frustrating the journey to a diagnosis was, given the complexity of Crohn’s and its common misdiagnosis due to its symptomatic resemblance to other conditions. She describes the relief and validation of finally understanding her condition. This personal health battle played a significant role in shaping her resilience and perspective on life challenges.

Jeff relates to this with his own anecdote about struggling with undiagnosed skin conditions that were only resolved after a dermatologist accurately identified it as a form of eczema that didn’t require regular medication, just preventive care.

The discussion then veers into Angela’s academic and professional journey, highlighting her transition from studying biology with a consideration of dual majoring in physics to solely focusing on biology due to financial and practical reasons. Angela explains her early career moves – bouncing between jobs, coping with the great recession, and the gradual move into Fortune 500 companies, where she gained substantial experience in biotechnological fields.

Jeff connects their stories, reflecting on career shifts and the unforeseen pathways they both tread, like his move to Vegas and consequent temp jobs that led to long-term employment thanks to accumulated and varied experiences.

Angela discusses the decision to return to school for an MBA which coincided with significant career transitions, including Dow closing her department. She narrates how these professional experiences and her personal passion led her to explore beyond lab work, finding fulfillment in merging her technical background with communications which she felt was a gap in the scientific community, particularly in controversial sectors like GMOs.

Their exchange then explores debt-freedom and the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) lifestyle. Angela shares her aggressive approach to clearing $85K in student debt in 18 months, emphasizing sacrifices and strategic financial planning which allowed her and her husband to repay their debts rapidly.

Wrapping up, Jeff asks Angela for advice for listeners, urging them to start wherever they are in their financial journeys, advocating for small, manageable improvements. Angela promotes her website, which offers resources like a free ebook aimed at helping others pave their own paths to financial freedom using traditional career trajectories, without needing to take extreme measures.

The episode concludes with both sharing a light-hearted moment about personal and family priorities, underscoring the varied personal motives behind financial independence—be it travel, leisure, or lifestyle choices.

Connections

Website

Free E-book

Instagram

341 Brieanna Lightfoot Smith
Brieanna Lightfoot Smith – Helping Mama’s Build a Brand/Business while raising Children

Brieanna Lightfoot Smith – Helping Mama’s Build a Brand/Business while raising Children

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 41:15 — 57.1MB)

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Brieanna Lightfoot Smith is a Business Coach and Brand Strategist. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, she transformed her passion for affirming teenage girls into 4 published books and turned those books into a curriculum-based program. Now she teaches other women how to get paid for their passion.

Brieanna Lightfoot Smith Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Arlington TX and studied journalism in college in Missouri; had published 100+ articles when she graduated

Moved to New Orleans dating her future husband; was getting offers for jobs but turned them into freelance business gigs for newsletters, websites and social media

When she left New Orleans she was married and had her first child; she was offered a fulltime job and decided to take it

She knew when it was time to quit that full time gig when she passed out in her car when pregnant with her oldest

She shut down her business in 2018 to be a full time mom and give her self some rest; restarted the business in 2021

Had to streamline her business to fit into her life as a mom and wife and stopped working with clients that took to much work

Now she primarily works helping other moms run their business and make them fit into their lives without moving towards burnout

Connections

Website

340 James Divine
James Divine – Changing the World, One Note at a Time

James Divine – Changing the World, One Note at a Time

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:35 — 67.3MB)

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James Divine says “There once was a little boy whose mom told him he could be anything he wanted…a policeman, a doctor, a lawyer, even President! He exceeded all her expectations and became a music teacher. He married his HS sweetheart, is father to 4 and grandpa to 10.”

James retired from full time teaching but still teaches band part time at a charter school. The rest of his time is spent speaking, training, writing, podcasting, and performing. And often holding hands and eating pizza and cannoli.

Now for the boring, adult stuff…

James earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College in Maine and received my music education from the Army School of Music, graduating from the basic, intermediate, and advanced courses over a span of ten years, serving in Virginia, Japan and Colorado. He retired from the Army Band in 2006. He earned a teaching license from Western Colorado University and completed a master’s in music education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. James believes in the value of life-long learning! He just doesn’t like standardized testing.

James Divine Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Virginia and his father was abusive to his mother which James witnessed; mom took James and his sister to Italy to get away

Spent a couple of years in Italy and mostly had a great time with lots of Italian relatives; but was sexually abused by a family friend

That abuse continued in Virginia when he returned; and finally ended when the abuser left; that was when James was old enough to be angry about it

He carried that rage into high school and realized that he needed to find a way to forgive his abuser not to excuse the abuse but for his own well being

Joined the Army Band and was in the Army active duty 10 year and the National Guard for another 10 years

After his miltary time, he worked on being a full time sax player; that can be challenging to make end meet; he took a band teacher position and realized he really loved teaching

Taught band for many years before retiring again; but missed teaching and is now back at it half-time along with public speaking

Connections

Website (JamesDivine.net)

JazzySaxman.com

339 Glen Williams
Glen Williams – Healing Relationships and Communication post Trauma

Glen Williams – Healing Relationships and Communication post Trauma

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:44 — 79.7MB)

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Glen Williams is a 26 year veteran police officer/detective. He developed PTSD, many of the related negative behaviors, became divorced, and bankrupt. Three years alone in his cabin, taught him how to rebuild himself, to communicate, and he started over. He now has a good relationship, he is a published author, is in a documentary, and he travels and speaks to mostly cops about relationships and trauma. Bridging the Gaps we have created in our lives.

Glen Williams Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Started going to college in Colorado, majored in party and had a rather low GPA; transferred to Utah to try to avoid most of the parties

Wanted to get a job in Federal Law Enforcement, but after completing the very lengthy application process was disqualified for diabetes

Decided to work in local law enforcement instead and did that for 26 years

After an trying CPR on a child having the child not make it, was lucky that his Lieutenant let him go away and process that and not worry about the report right away

Glen, like most law enforcement officers was experiencing trauma at a very high frequency; seeing a dead body became “no big deal”; it’s a big deal and traumic

Not knowing about PTSD, he shut down and just used more work as an escape so he didn’t have to “think” about the the trauma

Shiloh his service dog let’s him know when his blood sugar is both high and low and does a better job than the glucose monitor

Connections

Website

338 Bruce Schutter
Bruce Schutter – Mental Health Warrior

Bruce Schutter – Mental Health Warrior

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:24 — 70.8MB)

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Bruce Schutter struggled with Bipolar, Alcoholism and GAD, until he discovered mental health is the key to triumphing over any life challenge! He created the Mental Health Warrior Program, a grass roots approach to Mental Health, a journey of Self-Help and Empowerment. We teach everybody to be Mental Health Warriors.

Bruce Schutter Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Volunteered as an EMT while in High School; used CPR on someone; when that person died; naturally Bruce fell into depression but didn’t have to tools to deal with grief

Bruce leaned into trying to help people and got his EMT certification working as a volunteer; which added to an already stressful life

Bruce was feeling many unwanted emotions and didn’t know how to process those feeling; so he turned to alcohol to avoid the pain

Got a job in IT, but he really struggled with the emotions related to work life, used shopping and alcohol to ease the pain and looked right from the outside

After several short stays in jail for drinking, was twice placed on a 3-day psych hold and could barely get through each day as they seemed meaningless

One day attempted suicide but survived; this was a turning point where he realized he needed help

Desperately seeking answers and relief he went to meetings, doctors, took meds, and tried everything offered but still was left without any control of my life.

He realized during this period that his Mental Health was what he need to embrace and nurture instead of avoid

He realized he feared “feeling” of his own emotions because would lose control

Bruce learned manage his emotions and becoming comfortable with them. This allowed him to stay in control of the day and take the steps needed to triumph over my life’s challenges.

Learned there are foods to avoid to improve mental health; processed foods, processed sugar, reduced carbs

Connections

Website

337 Wendy Wright
Wendy Wright – Shift your Money Mindset

Wendy Wright – Shift your Money Mindset

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:01 — 69.1MB)

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Wendy Wright is a Financial Therapist known for her expertise in merging psychology and finance. With credentials as a licensed therapist, money coach, author, and business owner, Wendy is a trailblazer in her field. Leveraging her diverse background as a former mortgage loan officer, business proprietor, and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she pioneers transformative financial therapy and money consulting. Wendy’s approach helps clients overcome psychological barriers impeding financial growth.As CEO of Financial Therapy Solutions, LLC, based in Denver, CO, Wendy offers virtual services in the US and internationally. Her impactful teachings shed light on the fusion of psychology and finance, guiding individuals toward financial clarity and empowerment. She is the author and creator behind the transformative Money Mindset Shift©, a program designed to foster healthier relationships with money. Wendy’s contributions mark her as a visionary bridging the gap between emotional well-being and fiscal success.

Wendy Wright Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Wendy started her career on the business marketing and mortgage side of life before she got into therapy

Why we make a financial plan instead of a budget; budget is a loaded term that carries shame/blame/guilt

Journaling is key to start hearing your internal dialog about money; write it down when you start talking to yourself about money

Some people come from a culture that says all debt is bad; you might say to yourself; I’m a bad person if I have a mortgage

Another way to think about paying taxes is that you are contriuting to the common good; my taxes helped to pay for this freeway…I love this freeway!

Why you should not pay down your debt until you make a plan to and learn how to break your debt cycle

If you get a big chunk of money you probably want to get some help with that–you may need a team of people to help you deal with a Lotto win

Before you talk to your loved ones about money ideas; spend some time journaling and listening to your money self talk first

Connections

Website

336 Alison Jacobson
 Alison Jacobson – Inspiring Resilience and Transformation for Women in Midlife

 Alison Jacobson – Inspiring Resilience and Transformation for Women in Midlife

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:12 — 68.6MB)

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Alison Jacobson, renowned as the Midlife Maverick, embodies unwavering resilience, having triumphed over profound grief and obstacles. Her journey includes navigating the heart-wrenching loss of her baby to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), weathering the financial upheaval of divorce, and shouldering the role of caregiver for both her son, who has Intellectual Disabilities and her husband, who battles Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. At the remarkable age of 57, having never run more than a mile until the year prior, she conquered the iconic NYC Marathon, serving as a living testament that it is never too late for personal transformation.

Alison is a dedicated advocate for women in midlife, helping them overcome self-doubt and fear to achieve their goals and live joyful, successful, kick-ass lives in their second chapter. Through her own tragedies and adversities, she empowers women to find life after loss, regain self-confidence to bravely move forward personally and professionally, and take decisive action to make themselves the center of their own lives.

As a highly accomplished coach, speaker, and author, Alison empowers women in midlife to reignite their aspirations, reconstruct self-assurance, magnify happiness, and unlock the abundance they genuinely deserve. Alison’s book Daily Inspirations for Midlife Women: A Guide to Peace, Joy, Confidence, and Abundance was published last year.

Alison Jacobson Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up on the East Coast in a small town outside New York City; in her job doing something else–her boss asked her to write a press release; she said yes and that became a PR firm

Decided to move to Los Angeles to expand the business and fell in love with the beach; always dreamed of having a food truck on the in Venice

Knew from a very young age that she was an entrepreneur; she was not wired to be an employee; not very good at “looking busy” which can be required in a job

After her son died of SIDS, she was looking for ways to honor her son Connor; starting working with a non-profit to support parents surviving SIDS; eventually became the CEO (firstcandel.org)

Created a PR firm which she eventually sold and then lost everything and had to file bankruptcy after a very tough divorce–forced to start over

Decided to run the New York Marathon in part to honor her son Connor; great story about seeing butterflies and sun flowers in November while running the race

We discuss how important it is for women to learn about their bank accounts, credit cards, and all the accounts in their lives; your spouse could be unable to help with that any day at any time

Connections

Website

335 John Diggs
John Diggs – Map Your Way to The life You Love

John Diggs – Map Your Way to The life You Love

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:00 — 64.6MB)

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John Diggs Born in the creative hotbed of Pacoima in northern LA, John Diggs played college football at Washington State University and went on to play five years of NFL and CFL football before officially retiring. He then built one of Southern California’s most outstanding mortgage brokerages before the mortgage meltdown of 2008 forced him to lose that business, followed by his home, wife, and family. Going from the highs of success on every front to the low of sleeping on his mom’s couch, however, turned out to provide the backdrop for the life-changing idea of using Mind Mapping on a personal level to put his own life back together and help others do the same.

Since sharing this unique idea in his TEDx Talk, John has authored six mind mapping books and designed dozens of mind mapping courses. He delivers mind mapping talks and hosts an online community of Mappineers– ALL to support his mission to help himself and others love life to the fullest by getting clear about who they are while boosting creativity, enhancing memory, collaborating at high levels, increasing productivity, and reducing stress.

John Diggs Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up outside Los Angeles and dreamed of playing college football; when he finally ran out of the tunnel as a sophomore starter he starting crying as he lived his dream

Played in the NFL and CFL for five years until a knee injury; the doctor told him he could play, but if he injured it again he might have to walk with a cane the rest of this life

When we played for the Raiders when they were in Los Angeles he got his real estate license

Developed real estate software and used that in his business; rode the bubble until it popped in 2007; that’s when he lost everything

Stayed on his mom’s couch and he had work out clothes and his Big Ass Box of Personal Development; Found a book on mind-mapping and needed a project–so he worked on that box

Met a mentor who kept asking him; “Who are you?” John had many answers the mentor would ask “Is that all?”; changed his life

8 months after landing on the his mom’s couch; he got a job interview for a software developer gig; the president of the company said “We gotta have you, how much?” John said 10K per month—DONE!

Connections

Website

334 Walker Kimberly Brandt
Walker Kimberly Brandt – Transcending Generational Trauma

Walker Kimberly Brandt – Transcending Generational Trauma

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:51 — 68.9MB)

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Walker Kimberly Brandt has been a working actress appearing in thousands of advertising campaigns, blockbuster films, and primetime TV shows, for over 25 years. Walker is an awarded community builder and leader who has dedicated a significant amount of her time as a volunteer helping others. Her successful marriage of over 20 years reflects her dedication to putting love first. AWAKEN, Discovering Yourself Through the Light of Your Innocence, is her first book and vulnerably shares the intimate story of how at 16 she began her independent journey to make a childhood vision her mission: find or create tools to transcend the challenges of generational trauma and build resilient mental health. After becoming a published author, she was asked to work with global leaders as a speaker and coach in their effort to help others achieve success and happiness.

Walker Kimberly Brandt Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Connected with nature at a very young age, running around in the mountains she was not afraid of rattlesnakes and other danergeous animals; she was more afraid of the humans in her life

Ran away at age 13, and left home permanently at age 16; At age 18 she moved to Italy to start her modelling career

One day she was vrooming, coming home from another successful gig and feeling great; her husband had this look that told her something was wrong

Her husband was diagnosed with a life threating cancer; instead of the “standard care” they decided together to get educated about all their available options; her husband survived cancer while learning many valuable life lessons

During this very dark and trying time; Lisa Nichols suggested she write a book about her life and her struggles; not for her, but for the people who read it

After the book came out she was asked to start coaching and speaking and she loves it; she found a new mission: find or create tools to transcend the challenges of generational trauma and build resilient mental health

Connections

Website

333 Frank King
Frank King – Mental Health Comedian

Frank King – Mental Health Comedian

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:17 — 70.4MB)

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Frank King is a Suicide Prevention Speaker and Comedian. Frank was a writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years and, a speaker and comedian for 37.Worked with Jeff Foxworthy, Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Stewart, Steve Harvey, Rosie, Ellen, Randy Travis, and Lou Rawls.Frank fought a lifetime battle with Depression and Suicidality, turning that long dark journey of the soul into 12 TEDx Talks, and sharing my insights on Mental Health with colleges, corporations, and associations.

Frank King Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Started as “fax” joke writer for Jay Leno before he took over for Johnny Carson; wrote about 12-14 jokes during the weekends and sent them in via Fax–only got paid if the jokes were used on the show

Lives with depression and suidical thoughts to this day; has a very solid self-care plan but suicide is still on the table as a soltion to problems

Started body building in sixites, he’s intermitment fasting and eating a keto diet, he is definatly in better shape me in my 50’s

His father died at age 40 because of his aortic valve; Frank had his aortic valve replaced when he was forty first with a donor human vavle and latter with a mechanical valve

Can speak with experience about preventing suicide and depression because he lives with it and he loves to write jokes

Can write jokes and tag lines “in his sleep”; wakes up at 3 am with his best work and texts his clients immediately

Lived on the road with his wife as a road comic; sold he house and went from town to town telling jokes

Connections

Website

332 Brad Nelson
Brad Nelson – Worry Less Live More

Brad Nelson – Worry Less Live More

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:52 — 75.4MB)

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Brad Nelson is a single dad who has dedicated his life to serving and helping people with their finances. Through The Debt Free Dad Podcast and his online course Roots of Personal Finance, he challenges conventional thinking, helping people save and pay off millions. Beyond finances, Brad values family, outdoor adventures, and creating lasting memories.

Brad Nelson Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Brad first marriage ended largly due to conflicts surrunding money; this came to a head when he lost his first house during the housing crisis

Now a single dad, Brad committed himself to educate himself about elimating credit card debt and to stop living pay-check to pay-check

Most people today never look at their bank statements or credit card statments; so step 1 is looking at where your money is going after you get your pay check

Conflict in a relationships about money is really stressful and the number 1 reason marriages end in divorce–so getting on the same page with your significant other in critical

When talking about money with your significant other; focus on the why you want to be debt free and where you want to be and do after you become debt free

Cancelling subscriptions to apps, cable, TV, cellphone is nearly impossible for alot of people; never give a reason beyond “I know longer wish to pay for this service”

You can find free education from Brad and anywhere on the internet; what also helps is a community of like-minded folks who are working on the same problem

Connections

Website (DebtFreeDad)

Debt Free Dad Episode 169 – How Do I Payoff Debt When I Can Barely Pay my Monthly Bills?

331 Linn Rivers
Linn Rivers – Childhood Trauma leads to Holistic Health

Linn Rivers – Childhood Trauma leads to Holistic Health

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:07 — 93.6MB)

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Linn Rivers is a functional health and wellness expert and educator. She teaches people all over the world how to take their health into their own hands; mind, body and spirit. With over 15 years in the holistic health field and her own arduous past, she is able to guide those who are ready, to a happier and healthier way of living.

Linn Rivers Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Lived in El Paso Texas until she was 8 years old and then moved to New Mexico; in the middle of nowwhere with nothing to do

She has zero happy memories from childhood, she lived in constant fear of everything

When she was a baby in love was expressed to her from a place of fear and panic from her parents trying to keep her alive; she experienced “love” as fear

Growing the word love was a fear casuing word; she didn’t like people telling her they loved her and she refused to say it to others

Her mother died of cancer when she was 15 years old; she told her mother she loved her and her mother died immediately after she said the word; Linn knew she had killed her mother with that word

Her father suffered greatly with health issues and addiction to alchohol; Linn now sees that he did his best with the hand he had been dealt

Experienced many near death experienced and learned that she was creating her own reality and reapting lessons from her own past

Had been sick and depressed her whole life so at age 18 started researhing and holisitic health and working with the body

Discovered that most health issues (including mental/emotion health) somehow relate to an issue with your personal microbiome; if you feed the microbiome you feed the body what it needs

Connections

YouTube

330 Darius Wallce
Darius Wallace – Through Struggles and Adversity to Actor, Speaker, Coach

Darius Wallace – Through Struggles and Adversity to Actor, Speaker, Coach

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:44 — 83.4MB)

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Darius is no stranger to stories. He has been in several Hollywood Movies(Nothing But The Truth, Brian Banks and The World We Make). He is a founding company member of Tennessee Shakespeare in Memphis Tennessee and he has performed all over the country in thousands of schools, universities, theaters and libraries as Frederick Douglass. He also has been the TEDx Memphis coach for seven years. He is a practitioner of Tai Chi/Chi Gong and teaches methods of self improvement through meditation.

Darius Wallace Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Flint Michigan in the early 80’s and those streets were very mean

Did martial arts as a very tall 13 year old boy; also joined a gang for protection

Was kick boxing for money and probably being exploited by the gym; got caught with a weapon by the vice principle; choice was juvie, dad, or theater

Did a play in high school and then got the lead as a freshman in the school play; his gang member friends let him out of the gang

Took pills in a suicide attempt because his girlfriend didn’t return his call; woke up alive but the world was sideways and he parents freaked out

Fell into a deep grief after his mother pass away from cancer; ended up homeless in New York City on a Park Bench

Had his suicide pills in his pocket, had his last meal for $5 at Burger King; still had subway tokens so got on the train; met a yogi who agreed to teach him yoga for free and just happen to save his life

In 2011 after getting married and having children finally went into to rehab to quit drinking; he walk about 7 miles while having a very intimate conversation with his higher power (God)

Connections

Website

Instagram @dariusactor

329 Lynn Mull
Lynn Mull – From Wallstreet to Holistic Coach

Lynn Mull – From Wallstreet to Holistic Coach

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:10 — 75.8MB)

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Lynn Mull offers Clarity through Reiki healing sessions, and Holistic Career Coaching and Facilitating Teams to professional wellness. I use various tools and methods to speak, write, and provide 1.1 counsel to move out of the stuck into the actions that help you or your teams reach their goals.

She found her way because she had to create it. As a working parent and a sandwich caregiver in her early 30s, Lynn understands the pressures to keep going, provide for my family and prioritize everyone else’s wellbeing.Lynn looked in many corners and could not find one coach to break into her inner blockages and move her career until Reiki and a Career Coach got me there. We can be all the things to everyone, but first, we must get aligned and intuitively move forward on our own.

Lynn Mull Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Studied econ in college and played volleyball until injury took her out of the game–learned great lessons about commitment to excellence, teamwork and leadership

Her dad was “obsessed” with teaching her about money; taught her how to invest in stocks when she was still a kid

Interned at General Electric and then worked there as well; got into internal audit with sig sigma; found the value of clarity from leadership; everyone knew their job and what GE wanted them to do

Moved to San Francisco and worked at several banks staring in internal audit and then getting into mergers

Moved to New York city to be closer to family and help take care of her mother who was in a health crisis; the last straw was when her boss (Sue) was murdered by her husband–five years later she was able to step away from that world

Yoga led to personal development books, which led to learning Reiki which led to Yoga teacher training which also led to career coaching

Connections

Website (lynnmull.com)

328 Lea Durante
Lea Durante – Turn your Triggers into Glimmers

Lea Durante – Turn your Triggers into Glimmers

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:29 — 80.4MB)

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Lea Durante is a Nurse Practitioner turned Integrative Health Strategist and Coach, Lea equips women with fast and effective evidence-based tools to eliminate stress, burnout and feeling spread SO thin. After 50,000 patient encounters, she recognized the limits of traditional medicine to achieve true wellness. She pioneered innovative solutions, with cutting-edge science for sustainable and vibrant mental and physical health for her clients.

Lea Durante Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

In middle school in wine country in California she competed in doing gymnastics while riding a horse…I didn’t even know that was a thing–made it to world championships in Hungary

The achievement bug stuck and she overachieved her way to the top of her clas in college and grad school

Worked as a nurse (Regestered Nurse and Nurse Practioner) in primary care; saw 30 patients everyday for about 15 each–at some point she realized patients were not getting better

This led her to question what she was doing and to start learning about person development and find new ways to help people outside the medical system

Helps people use tools quickly to change their subconscious mind–change your triggers into glimmers by listening for that voice in your head and get curious about what it tells you to do

Turns out, there’s an entire evidence base to support living authentically and aligned without excess discipline and willpower–and you don’t have to spent your whole day drinking green juice and meditating

Her veer was SLOW from Family Nurse Practitioner to Integrative Health Coach as shifting identities and facing critics was a journey of mistakes, missteps before finally finding my way to innovative change work.

Looking back all the dots connect now, but it was a 5 years wandering veer that brought her to this most impactful and incredible place.

Her work now focuses on stress reduction, burnout recovery and helping others achieve the vibrant mental & physical health they desire.

She discovered fascinating tools in neuroplasticity, subconscious reprogramming and nervous system regulation that enable us to move through life with vibrant energy

Connections

Website

327 Chris M. King
Chris M. King – Conceive Your Impossible and get Unstuck

Chris M. King – Conceive Your Impossible and get Unstuck

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:03 — 70.1MB)

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Chris M. King has a history of making seemingly impossible goals a reality. And as it turns out, there is a science to this. Dubbed the “executive witch doctor,” today he is called in when individuals or professional teams have big dreams and little time.

Chris built a life on the pillars of his childhood: grief, rage, abuse, and addiction. Despite taking nine years to earn his associate’s degree and leaving his undergrad unfinished, he remarkably transformed into an NCAA hockey player within a year of learning to skate. With two failed marriages, one plagued by mental illness, he later forsook a lucrative career to become a poverty-stricken radio personality in Los Angeles.

Transitioning to marketing a hospital’s neuroscience institute without clinical expertise, Chris then shifted to a tech role, which ended in dismissal. Jobless, he spurned a secure future, opting for penniless homelessness as he ambitiously built a company from his car’s trunk—today, that very company prospers.

Unconventional as it may be, Chris’s journey defies norms. His secret? A resolute choice. Termed an “executive shaman,” “human tuning fork,” or “irritated Buddha,” Chris M. King, author of “Renegotiate Your Existence: Unlock Your Impossible Life,” facilitates transformative expeditions. He draws from spiritual psychology and learns from diverse luminaries like the Flow Research Collective, Dr. Andrew Huberman, and retired US Navy SEALs and US Army Special Forces.

Chris takes individuals and organizations beyond their perceived limits, enabling the realization of the seemingly impossible.

Chris M. King Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

His sister died at age 11 when he was 13 months old; he grew up in a family with grief, rage, abuse, and addiction and thought that was normal

Wanted to play hockey in college but was failing at community college and he didn’t know how to skate; made it to the state championship anyway (and lost)

His first wife had bi-polar disorder that wasn’t so bad when they got married but got abusive a couple years in

Built a business (statusflow.net) while homeless living out of his car and couch surfing with friends

Started turning things around after the trauma of his second marriage ending and sought help from a therapist; he saw that therapist for 3 months and was done with therapy

He was a coach whose primary clients are 20 somethings stuck on their parent’s couch into school or a good job

Chris clients are women working 60-hours a week and putting themselves last on their to do list; step 1 suggest they cut back their hours to 30-hours a week

Connections

Welcome Page at StatusFlow.net

326 Dr. Eric Recker
Dr. Eric Recker – Win the Now and Knock Back Burnout

Dr. Eric Recker – Win the Now and Knock Back Burnout

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:52 — 67.1MB)

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Dr. Eric Recker has worn a lot of hats. As a husband, father, dentist, elite success coach, pilot, speaker, author, mountain climber, and recovering triathlete, he has pushed his life to the limit and discovered that what he was searching for wasn’t at the top of the mountain.

Today… in addition to running a thriving dental practice he loves… Eric is committed to helping people learn to #WINtheNOW and discover the life they were meant to live through his talks and coaching. As a speaker, he offers stories and strategies that equip audiences to live with hope, to have a plan, and believe that good days are ahead!

Eric, his wife Amy and their two kids proudly live in a small town in Iowa.

Dr. Eric Recker – Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Pella Iowa where they make Pella windows; experienced bullying in early elementary school; he was young a little husky and uncoordinated; we wasn’t even allowed to play kickball at lunch recess

Made a pact with himself that he would do whatever it took to be the best at everything he did; sports; work; school everything–created his over-acheiver at a very young age.

After a trip to India, we wasn’t feeling great so he asked a doctor friend for help and got some antibiotics and he felt better

He nearly died in the ER with a life-threatening E-Coli infection–a giant fart saved his life

Went through several bouts of burnout putting to much on his plate and feeling like he had to have all the answers all the time for everyone

In his head he feared being found out as a fraud; you don’t know how to be a dentist or how to run a thriving business or how to win yet another triathlon

Win the now came from God for him to share with the world; when you take a loss take a note so you can later learn something from that loss

Connections

www.ericrecker.com

LINK TO THE BURNOUT OPT-IN:

Knock Back Burnout Challenge

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook- @eric.recker.1

Instagram- @docrecker

325 Sara Deacon
Sara Deacon Own your Future like a Boss

Sara Deacon Own your Future like a Boss

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:38 — 72.3MB)

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Sara Deacon, The Adulting Coach, is a speaker and teen mentor who empowers ambitious young people to design their lives based on who they are, independent of others’ expectations. With discipline, creativity and enthusiasm, she inspires young adults to challenge assumptions, act intentionally and own their future like a boss!

Sara Deacon Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Milwaukee Wisconsin, as a freshman she was shy around people she didn’t know; as a senior she was screaming for attention rocking orange pants with a rubber chicken in her hand

Connected with a teacher in high school who really “got her” and encouraged her to connect to her creative side

Was always a generalist and not a specialist; she is working creatively to learn something or find an answer to a question or solve a problem; once solved, it’s time to move on

Great story about working with a young athlete and trying to figure out what went well during as event; he really enjoyed lifting up the team and making them better; asked him to think about going into data science as that not involve inspiring people too much

Talked about the how amazing karate is for teaching very young people how to lead other kids; got amazing feedback from other parents about how her kids do a great job with their kids holding space, listening and cheerleading for them

Found an amazing side gig; so you want to attend an event; but the ticket may be too pricey; Sara volunteered to MC the event in exchange to attend for free; loved the whole experience that was totally energized until the following Monday and crashed…worth it.

Gap years can be a great way explore you options, but have some intention; if you want to explore in college; maybe start at a community college or state University before committing to an expensive program

Connections

SaraDeacon.com

324 Alexandra Harbushka
Alexandra Harbushka – Life with Herpes: Breaking the Stigma removing the Shame

Alexandra Harbushka – Life with Herpes: Breaking the Stigma removing the Shame

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:00 — 63.2MB)

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Alexandra Harbushka was sent into upheaval when she received a call from her doctor diagnosing her with herpes. Shaking, feeling like her life – her goals, happiness, and desires – had all just gone up in smoke, she was left scared shitless and with a new mission, to share her story with people just like herand to let them know that their feelings are normal, natural, and that they are not victims. With that mission in mind, she founded Life With Herpes, an online community consisting of a podcast, a website, Youtube channel, wellness products to support the skin condition and an online community that provides support, all dedicated to shattering the stigma of living with herpes.

Before founding Life With Herpes and becoming a mother to her son Clinton and a wife to her husband Bill, Alexandra worked in corporate America with roles ranging from Ralph Lauren to selling new home construction to being a mortgage loan officer. Her education includes a bachelor degree from the University of Arizona (Bear Down to my fellow Wildcats!), a postgraduate certificate in Ministry, and is currently working on a masters in Theology. She is also an ordained minister and provides ministry counseling.

Alexandra Harbushka Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in La Jolla near San Diego CA, she was a cheerleader and a “good girl” meaning she went to the parties but never drank because she didn’t want to lose her driver’s license

Graduated from the University of Arizona, but started college in San Diego and studied abroad in Spain; got a Spanish lit degree

Accidently got a Master’s degree in Theology because she started taking college classes for fun during lockdown, then the college told her she was only five classes away from a Master’s

After her diagnosis with Herpes, she felt like she needed to stay with that boyfriend because she didn’t think anyone else would be with her; after 2 years she decided that she need to move on with her life and not settle for someone she felt stuck with

Her husband encouraged her to share her story with herpes while speaking publicly at a podcasting conference; probably the most fear inducing idea I can think of doing

Close to 80% of people are positive for the herpes virus and don’t know they have it; it is a close cousin to the chickenpox and Shingles virus and both hide out in the nervous system

You can have “genital” herpes anywhere in the area of the nerves in and around you genital area not just in the genitals themselves; tailbone area, inner thighs

People are contagious definitely during an active breakout oral or genital but also you can be contagious without any outbreak

Connections

Website

323 Nicholas Jordan Moore
Nicholas Jordan Moore – Vulnerability, Self-love, and Compassion

Nicholas Jordan Moore – Vulnerability, Self-love, and Compassion

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:46 — 87.6MB)

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Nicholas Jordan Moore’s extraordinary journey has led him to become an expert and leader in the areas of vulnerability, self-love, and compassion. Along with sharing pieces of his incredibly vulnerable story, Nick shares his insights for overcoming the inner critic, letting go of the opinions of others, and how to gracefully ride the ever-changing waves of life.

Nick grew up in Texas within a culture of racism, violence, and patriarchy. These ideals would continue to plague his psyche, until the uncontested power of personal suffering would lead him to his awakening.

Nick’s life and story are a testament to enduring power of self-discovery, reflection, compassion, andvulnerability. Not only does he have valuable lessons to teach, but his short and powerful spoken word poetry can capture an audience and plant seeds for universal growth and understanding

Nicholas Jordan Moore Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

After witnessing an event and calling Child Protective Services on his father for allegedly sexual molesting his granddaughter and daughter; this blew up his world

After a out of body experience with a smokeable DMT he learned from the universe that sharing your most shameful secrets is the path to self-love

Nick was at his wit’s end, suicidal, and looking for answers; Angry and confused as to why a “good god” would allow such terrible things such as pedophelia to exist

Nick came to a place of peace and understanding through a powerful revelation; light comes from the darkness

Nick made friends with all the voices in his head; he learned that you need love himself first warts and all so he could work with all the darkness from his past

Nick learned that world will teach to hide all your shameful past actions; he learned to let go of the opinions of others to speak with love instead of fear

Before you speak ask yourself “Is this communication coming from love or fear” trust that you know the answer

Learned to listen to people without any judgement, without giving advice but just hearing the other person and not trying to “fix” problems

Connections

Website

322 Myron Welik
Myron Welik – The Jackhammer Effect

Myron Welik – The Jackhammer Effect

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:38 — 61.3MB)

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Myron Welik says:

In 2002, I lost my Multi-Million Dollar business in a catastrophic way, leaving me paralyzed with self-doubt and depression.

However, I kept going and 16 years later I successfully reinvented myself. I am known as “The Jackhammer” and have been in the business of making deals happen for 40 years. I am the host of the Jackhammer Effect podcast and author of the “Jackhammer Effect.” My insatiable drive and resilience have been a hallmark of my long and successful career.

Moreover – I identified and brokered the deal that brought Heidi Klum and New Balance together, leading to the creation of the HKNB brand. I pitched products of my own design on the Home Shopping Network to 40 million viewers. In addition – I have negotiated strategic partnerships with well-known brands such as the New England Patriots, Lacoste, FIFA, Madison Square Gardens, Radio City Music Hall, and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. 

Myron Welik Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Another random life changing moment at a business networking event, Myron was there and another real estate investor who should really be there is there–he helped Myron re-invent himself and his business

Was working with Heidi Klum’s people after she had a baby she was looking for new opportunities, this was when female athletic apparel was booming with Lulu Lemon

Myron suggested he reach out to New Balance to she if there were interested in working with Heidi–they create the HKNB line

Was working with Seal who was looking for opportunities during lockdown, Myron was able to set up a zoom meeting with Seal and the Patriots marketing team

During the tech boom there was a map app that was looking to sign companies in New York city to be on there map app; Myron got Madison Square Gardens, Radio City Music Hall and and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum

In 2002, I lost my Multi-Million Dollar business in a catastrophic way, left him paralyzed with self-doubt and depression; thankfully his wife supported through his struggles

Totally random life changing moment while on line at for a Taxi at La Guardia airport in New York City, she’s a beautiful woman and he talks to her–later they get married

Connections

Linkedin Profile

Instagram Profile

The Jackhammer Effect Book

The Jackhammer Effect Podcast

321 Liz Benditt
Liz Benditt – 5-time Cancer Survivor turned “Cancer-Prenuer”

Liz Benditt – 5-time Cancer Survivor turned “Cancer-Prenuer”

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:30 — 90.0MB)

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Liz Benditt is a 5-time cancer survivor turned “cancer-prenuer”. After muddling through four different cancers (Breast #2/2022, Breast #1/2017, Basel Cell/2015, Thyroid/2010, and Melanoma/2009) she knows a thing or two about what it is like to be a working mom and patient, undergo painful surgeries and treatments, and receive so many well-meaning but useless gifts. (e.g. Kicking Cancer Tote Bags, Breast Warrior t-shirts, worry stones, over-cooked lasagnas…)

In Fall of 2020, Liz transitioned from corporate marketing executive to mission-driven entrepreneur by channeling my personal experience into launching TheBalmBox.com. We interviewed over 500 patients and caregivers to curate functional care packages for cancer patients.

Liz was featured on NBC, USA Today, Medium, and Yahoo News. She was named a #WomanOfAction by the Susan G. Komen Foundation of KSWMO and was their keynote speaker at their Pink Power Luncheon as well as an award-winning finalist from the Amber Grant Foundation. She’s been a featured guest on a long list of podcasts including, Pieces of a Woman, In The Rising, and Love Shack Live (podcast and live radio broadcast).

Liz Benditt Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Born in California, moved briefly to the Chicago area went to High School in Pennsylvania; she was already into sports including gymnastics so she joined the varsity cheerleader squad

Studied mass communication at Boston College for her undergrad; learned how to communicate be articulate and tell a story

Realized she enjoyed the business side of marketing more than the creative side; got her MBA and really focused on using data to drive business and creative decision through testing and surveys

Did her Honeymoon in Costa Rica and a very remote resort; after she flew into the country got on a single engine aircraft to fly to the resort

Visited Paris twice and stood in line to see the Mona Lisa both times; on the first trip with 6 other 20 something girlfriends one friend said “Let’s go see the HO and then get a cocktail”

Employee #3 at Bluetooth! Helped to make sure as many companies as possible would support Bluetooth; got to travel all over the world

Fall of 2020, transitioned from corporate marketing to mission-driven entrepreneur by channeling my personal experience into TheBalmBox.com. We interviewed over 500 patients and caregivers to curate functional care packages for cancer patients

Connections

Website

320 Chris Marshall
Chris Marshall – How to De-Stress with the Pause, Play, Move Method

Chris Marshall – How to De-Stress with the Pause, Play, Move Method

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:15 — 95.1MB)

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Chris Marshall is a transformative voice in leadership, resilience, and business strategy. With an aim to prepare individuals and teams for a disruptive tomorrow. Chris draws from his diverse experiences in behavioural science, professional foresight, and global macro strategy. Through his talks, he offers insights that are not just profound but also actionable, paving the way for a future-ready mindset.Chris has a varied background, from being a youth athlete to being high functioning autistic with a divergent mindset in a neurotypical world, to setting up an international award-winning distillery as a side hustle. He has many stories of vrooming and veering in his life including: burnout, divorce, being the head of global strategy for a fund manager, becoming a breathwork coach to ongoing research as a professional futurist and behavioural scientist specialising in decision-making in fast-paced complex environments. He is also the author of the book Decoding Change, a book that seeks to help people better the rapid changes we’re seeing all around us.

Chris Marshall Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Snowdonia in Whales in the UK in the Moutains (don’t say hills!) which is a rich, lush, green mountain wonderland with hundreds of castles

Fell in love with skiing at the age of 7 and was a competive ski racer in his teens; worked with a famous sport pychologist to work on his mental game, visualizations and reducing anxiety

His burnout came around when he was working on Pause, Play, Move method–he ended up in the hospital; he had to learn how to really pause and play to releive the stress

The pause in PPM is about just giving yourself a break to rest and reset and bring down your stress level; breath work, diet, getting enough sleep all contribute to that calm joyful state

Playfulness is a state that doesn’t concern itself with outcomes; bay leaf in Gin? Sure let’s try it…tastes like medicine so NO..but that’s ok, now you know that it doesn’t work

Move almost takes care of itself if you are able to Pause and find that comfortable, calm, joyful state, and after you played with your problems your are already moving

Wanted to start a brewery but found out that he had a gluten intolerence (I think I said Lactose…opps! That’s ok, I was playing) so Chris create a distillery instead

After discovering amazing gin in Bruges, Belgium wanted to make a gin from Whales where the best water and botanicals exist on the planet

Connections

Website

319 Hilary DeCesare
Hilary DeCesare 2 – Discovered the 3HQ process Singing in the Car with her Teenage Daughter

Hilary DeCesare 2 – Discovered the 3HQ process Singing in the Car with her Teenage Daughter

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:48 — 72.5MB)

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Hilary DeCesare, renowned business coach, bestselling author (ReLaunch!), and trailblazing female Silicon Valley CEO, brings an innovative perspective to industry leaders. With a focus on neuropsychology, she empowers mid-life women through her trademarked 3HQ™ Method. Hilary serves on the board of Cal Poly SLO and actively supports causes combating human trafficking and childhood cancer. Her impactful work has been featured on major networks and in notable publications

Hilary DeCesare Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

The 3HQ process means your HQ is the Headquarters of “YOU” it has three departments 1) Head 2) Heart) 3) Highest Self

Tune in process is use your head to come up with an intention, then tune in to your heart and listen to the song you hear for around 20-30 seconds then she a mini movie to take the next micro step

Teenager in the car who loves to sing; made up a game for them to play where the teen has to sing a song of a different genre…eventually she wanted to play and improved her mood

Hilary had a near death experience at the age of 2, she had a rare infection they think here mother may have contracted from a swimming pool; she remembers feeling isolated but came back to life

After her mother died and she was grieving her loss; she decided to use the time during lock down to write a book; she took a class from a real professor for a year to learn how to write a book

Write before lock down she are her husband were looking forward to “empty nest” fun; lock down changed her plans

She was patient number 43 in San Francisco; she was not allowed to leave and all the medical workers were in hazmat suits; she felt a little bit like E.T.

Connections

Check out the first show here is the link (bra at airport and the shot/beer while skydiving)

Website

Tune in Power Tool

318 Elizabeth Pearson Garr
Elizabeth Pearson Garr – Writer/Producer; Local TV news Anchor…Now Podcaster Producer/Host

Elizabeth Pearson Garr – Writer/Producer; Local TV news Anchor…Now Podcaster Producer/Host

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:26 — 69.3MB)

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Elizabeth Pearson Garr created, hosts and produces the podcast, “What It’s Like To…” She has degrees from Harvard and Stanford, and has worked as a writer/producer for the TV Food Network, PBS, and E! Entertainment; an anchor/reporter for the NBC affiliate in Billings, MT; and as a documentary filmmaker.

Elizabeth took about 15 years out of the paid workforce to be with her kids and volunteer in their schools and our community. Getting back in the working world (and starting her own business in my early 50s) has been an interesting journey, not just for me, but also for my family (don’t underestimate the shift in dynamics that occurs when a former stay-at-home mom no longer has time for everyone’s needs and desires!).

Elizabeth Pearson Garr Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Palo Alto California and her parents were a professor (dad) and a principle (mom)

Went to Harvard and studied literature and history; she really loved writing and wanted to write about food; so she went to culinary school to get some chops and cred

There was a new TV network in New York called the Television Food Network; she called someone to say she would be in New York and would like to talk to someone about working there; she got the job

Her dream job was to work on camera; was bold enough to reach out to Diane Sawyer and got a call back and a meeting; Diane told her if you want to work on camera you have to work in a smaller market

Was a weekend news anchor in Billings MT for about 2 years; was told that she didn’t have “it”; but when she got the hair and makeup done suddenly she had “IT”; she learned she didn’t want to work on camera after all

Briefly had a executive job with Fox TV in LA with a butler asking her if she needed anything; she didn’t really know what she was supposed to do and there was zero direction; the quit was mutual

Started the “What it’s like to…” podcast to interview people of all walks of life to get their stories; lets you vicariously experience intriguing things you may never get the chance to do

Connections

Podcast Website

317 Joe Bains
Joe Bains – Biohacking, Keto, Fasting, Ice Bath, Wim Hof, Tantra

Joe Bains – Biohacking, Keto, Fasting, Ice Bath, Wim Hof, Tantra

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:24:39 — 116.3MB)

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Joe Bains does Keto, Intermittent fasting, fasting, Biohacking, Wim Hof (Breathwork), Cold showers/baths, Pranayama, Yoga, Calisthenics, Light Therapy, Peptides ,etc, etc.He’s a standup comedian – having performed at Brighton, Henley and Edinburgh Fringes, around other UK venues and abroad. Joe completely destroyed his health and became disabled for 6 months with diabetes type 2. The hospitals couldn’t help him and finally discharged him. He needed 24/7 care; putting him to bed, changing his clothes, showering him and taking him to the toilet. He then spent the next 3 years rebuilding his body and health from the inside out and made himself able bodied again.

Joe was so successful at this, that now aged 55, Joe is at his healthiest and has boundless energy, more than he ever had even in his 30’s.

Joe Bains Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Born in India and moved to the UK when he was still pretty young; really wanted to fit it in school

Learned English by age 15 but really wanted to sound “English” spent the next 10 years perfecting his English accent

Changed his name to Joe Bains and removed all references to his being from India and the world of work opened up; people just love the English accent everywhere

Really loves psychedelics (all of them) for therapeutic and spiritual practices

Got his own ice bath in his Garden (aka Backyard in the states) and noticed a big difference when the water was 6 degrees C and the length of time was 20+ minutes

Has been eating full time Keto for 10 years (wow) has eliminated all junk food (oh no!)

His longest fast was 21 days but also does regular intermittent fasting which can be just a simple breakfast of bacon and eggs

Connections

https://joebains.com

316 Amber Tariq
Amber Tariq – What is most True for Me is this Moment

Amber Tariq – What is most True for Me is this Moment

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:59 — 81.0MB)

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Amber Tariq “I am a physician turned depth coach, focusing on high achievers, turning life from driven and ambitious to “What is most true for me, in this moment?” Which does not mean being unambitious, but asks for breaking stereotypes and culturally approved narrow definitions of success.

Amber Tariq Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Has a great memory for most things but doesn’t remember her childhood before age 12; at that age she decided she needed to be MUST BE an independent person in every way

Loved school! Really enjoyed learning and studing for exams and over-achieving in school

Always an introvert and had diffcult making friends and connecting with people; but found that once she was in a group of friends and co-worker she could be the entertainer of the group

Became an MD and practiced in Pakistan and moved to the states at age 30; did all the cerifications to practice medicine all while she was pregnant

At some point she started to question why was she an over achiever and also realized that she was human and needed to take care of her self and her body and she might need help with that

Read 70 books in a year (doesn’t everybody?) started with pop psychology and then went deeper; did a Jungian coaching certifcation

Brings her new insights of psychology and coaching to reach out to students, friends, co-workers and patients was learned how to connect with people and really she them as people7

Connections

Linkedin

315 Craig Thayer
Craig Thayer – Find the Miracles in your Life

Craig Thayer – Find the Miracles in your Life

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 53:25 — 76.0MB)

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Craig Thayer: His destiny was mapped before he was even born. Being put up for adoption at birth and finding his family at nine months was just the start of his unorthodox journey. Craig battled a reading disorder that went undiagnosed until he was fifty-five years old. Despite that and numerous other challenges, the calling in his heart to become a surgeon grew louder and louder.

It didn’t quiet when he suffered a twisted intestine, witnessed his adopted mother’s alcohol problem, grieved her death when he was just eighteen, healed from a skull fracture in college, agonized over his adopted father’s fight for his life, and struggled to find his self-esteem. Through adversity, he has become a well-respected surgeon, head of trauma, community leader, and forever a jokester. The miracles that touched his life were his saving grace and shined a light on his purpose.

Craig’s intent in sharing his stories are to give you hope, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. His passion is to inspire and motivate others to live their life to the fullest. We are all more alike than we know. Craig is the best-selling author of SAVED: One Trauma Surgeon’s True Accounts of the Miracles in His Life. In this memoir, you can hear many of his inspiring stories.

Craig Thayer Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

His grandma, (known to his kids as Gigi) encouraged him to write a book for 15 years–later we went to a business training with famous people who didn’t know him who also encouraged him to write a book about his struggles through adversity and his faith

Blessed to be a orphan; his natural mother was in Michigan and was not married and starting to show and was engaged but not in the church long enough; mom moved to California long enough to have Craig and get him baptized at a local church before giving him to an orphanage

His adopted mom was born in Ireland and she had an Irish temper and struggled with alcoholism; she made Craig and Empath; he went to his first AA meeting at age 11 and heard testimony of all the participants

One man from AA named John had killed a kid while drunk driving and Craig reminded John of that kid that he had killed

Landed on general surgery in med school because at that time he would learn how to treat a person from head to toe; he really wanted to know how to perform a Tracheostomy

When he went to do medical missionary work he would often need assistance from non-medical folks; he always advised people to let him know if they felt light headed or just uncomfortable because people can pass out and hurt themselves

Jeff shares way too much detail about passing out which doctor’s call Vasovagal syncope; that started in Air Force Basic training as a needle phobia

We talk about how tall men (at least 6’4″) earn 15K more for every inch over 6 feet; Male leaders tend to be tall with large hands; that same group also tends to pass out more often

Connections

Website

Vasovagal syncope

314 Dr. Jenny Quartano
Dr. Jenny Quartano – Everyday Wellcare for Women, Children and the Whole Family

Dr. Jenny Quartano – Everyday Wellcare for Women, Children and the Whole Family

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:41 — 71.0MB)

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Dr. Jenny Quartano — Shortly after beginning her private practice as a pediatric physical therapist, Dr. Quartano found herself in an unexpectedly challenging personal situation that led her to a place of focusing the lifestyle factors she could control to manage her health and continue to show up every day for her patients—without medications, aches, pains, or fatigue that seemed to be what the traditional medical model offered. Through this experience, she found a passion and training in functional medicine so she could help other families undergoing the same. She doesn’t subscribe to common symptoms being normal or deteriorating health being a symptom of age and seeks to help other women find their best self to be the best mom, wife, professional or athlete they desire to be.

As families continue to seek alternate healthcare solutions outside the traditional clinic, All Together Wellness has seen a huge demand from the community to meet their needs in new ways. Dr. Quartano has curated a team to create a village of support for our All Together women and children in helping them thrive! Our team shares a vision of creating an experience for families where help is provided when and where you need it in a way that minimizes the burden and intrusion in your day to day rhythm but rather works with your family’s needs the way health and wellness support should.

Dr. Jenny Quartano Vroom Vroom Veer

Grew up outside of Green Bay Wisconsin (GO PACK!) pretty much knew two facts when she was young 1) She would move away from Wisconsin 2) Be a Doctor; we both grew up in the Packerland in the “Frozen Tundra” and love to back to visit in the summer and for Christmas

Did some grad school in Florida and decided the Sun and the beach beats the Frozen Tundra

After she started her private practice, she was feeling sick, tired, and her doctor told her nothing was wrong; being a doctor she knew something else was going on; she also saw the women she worked with in her practice didn’t have enough energy to live a healthy happy life

She joined a gym with a friend and challenge with together with work out everyday, meditation/stretchy, big diet restrictions (not fun), had to schedule and sleep 8 hours a night–amazed herself with how much better she felt

We compare notes on our health journies; cleaning up our diets, finding all the hidden sugar in packaged and junk food (it’s everywhere!); Jeff in his 30’s experienced pain when trying to stand up long enough to brew beer (about 3 hours); now he prefers a stand up desk to sitting

Dr. Jenny noticed that as a group health care works (nurses, therapists) are overworked, with high stress levels and eat junk on the run; Dr. Jenny agrees as a group they are not great at self care

She came from a background of Pediatric Physical Therapist-she spent a lot of time teaching parents about healthy eating as well as healthy parents; the vision was to have a one-stop shop for families with kids

Connections

Website

313 Michaelbrent Collings
Michaelbrent Collings -Become Your Own Best Story

Michaelbrent Collings -Become Your Own Best Story

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:02 — 75.6MB)

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Michaelbrent Collings is an international bestseller and screenwriter. Best known for horror (named as one of Rankers top 20 All-Time Greatest Horror Writers), he’s also a multiple Bram Stoker Award and Dragon Award finalist and the creator of BestsellerLife.com, where you’ll find the best writing, publishing, and marketing instruction around.

Michaelbrent Collings Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

As a kid he was kinda smart and kinda small which brought about a Napoleon Complex with no power–resulting in him being a jerk and having no friends

McC got tired of not having friends, so he asked his Mom how to make friends; his mom taught him how to be nice and make friends;

His Dad was a creative writer and his house was full of books; he was also the a world class expert on Stephen King; so Michaelbrent had an early entry into the world of stories

Because he spent most of his childhood as kinda of Jerk he thought he might be good at arguing; so he became a lawyer

His wife got sick and he got sick and he could no longer keep up with the lawyer partner gig and take care of himself and his wife; he was politely asked to divest from the partnership

He had been writing and not publishing for about 10 years by that point; there was this new thing called Kindle were he could publish his books without all that publishing house stuff

He is mostly known as a horror author but he writes in all genres and mixes them up as well

Bestseller Life is a new course to help writers learn how to write, publish and make a living from your writing

Connections

Website

312 Laura Oldanie
Laura Oldanie – Money and Lifestyle Choices for a Regenerative Future

Laura Oldanie – Money and Lifestyle Choices for a Regenerative Future

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:56 — 70.0MB)

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Laura Oldanie is a green living & money coach, who helps reluctant capitalists achieve financial resilience on a climate challenged planet.Laura is a self-employed green living and money coach living her dream life in a small Florida beach town. Laura previously lived in DC where she worked for a couple of different education non-profits. Before settling in DC She served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Poland and also worked in our U.S. Embassy there by winning a State Department Fellowship after grad school. These days Laura works from home, regularly attends yoga on the beach, and rides her bike as my main form of transportation.

Laura Oldanie Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Flint Michigan, at age 12 she was diagnosed with scoliosis and had to wear body brace; she was already struggling to fit it

She was drawn to hang out with with the other kids who were outsiders; she made friends with several international exchange students; she was fascinated with people from other countries and cultures

Got to backpack in Europe; veered off from the group to visit a friend in France and was lucky enough to actually meet up with them without email/cell phones even though they got the train schedule mixed up

After college worked with the Peace Corps in Poland where she picked up some Polish language skills which would come in handy for her next job with a State Department Fellowship after Grad School

Loves public transportation and ended up living and working in the DC area for two different non-profits; the last job she had she loved but the travel requirement became too much

What is “Slow Money”; how to rethink how we invest our money in more regenerative ways; Laura found ways to use a self-directed IRA to invest in local farms/businesses/non-profits; make money (slowly) while being aligned with the concepts of Permaculture (theNextEgg/WeFunder)

What is an Earthship? The key points are the heating and cooling are passive (free) the water is used 4 times before it leaves the house; much better than paying almost $900 electric bill in the Las Vegas heat

Connections

Website

Instagram

The Next Egg https://www.thenextegg.org/

WeFunder https://wefunder.com/

Seed Invest https://www.startengine.com/seedinvest

Slow Money https://slowmoney.org/

Permaculture and Money https://www.richandresilientliving.com/permaculture-money/

EarthShips https://www.earthshipglobal.com/about-us

311 Mark Aylward
Mark Aylward – Career Advice that Doesn’t Suck

Mark Aylward – Career Advice that Doesn’t Suck

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:26 — 68.6MB)

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Mark Aylward has over 30 years experience in the technical staffing space as an owner/operator. He generated over $75 million in revenue and have created 4 millionaires–maybe more. He built and sold 2 multi million dollar companies and hired and trained hundreds of salespeople and recruiters.

He found work for all three of his young adult children out of school and then helped them all start their own companies online.

Mark also got sole custody of my 3 children representing himself in his divorce (he is not an attorney).

More recently Mark transitioned into coaching in the career transition field.

Mark Aylward Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Winchester, MA near Boston; spent the summers on his bike riding around and didn’t go home till dinner time; no cell phones and no parents around

His High School guidance counselor told him to get a business degree and work for a big company so he did; he got a job in marketing and went to work for Met Life in Chicago

Didn’t love selling insurance B2B; when he was looking for what was next he met this guy from Australia who was a recruiter for petrochemical engineers to work in Saudi Arabia; he made 100K per recruit

So, Mark go into the tech staffing business; that was all awesome until his divorce; ended up losing the business and all his money but kept the most important thing–he got sole custody of his kids

Filled both roles of Mom and Dad and was there for all the kids events; that was a silver lining of divorce

Now he is working on creating a course to help people with “what’s next” in life and and work/business

Connections

Website

310 Chase Chewning
Chase Chewning – Learning to Grieve, Dealing with PTSD and Re-Learning How to Walk (twice)

Chase Chewning – Learning to Grieve, Dealing with PTSD and Re-Learning How to Walk (twice)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:30 — 59.8MB)

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Chase Chewning is a Virginia native and Army veteran. Chase is a Virginia Commonwealth University alum, graduating from their Health, Physical Education and Exercise Science undergraduate program in 2013. Having completed his MS in Health Promotion from American University in Washington, DC and has been an ACE Certified Health Coach since 2015.Living a life of wellness has always been a part of him – since growing up eating fresh food from his grandparents’ garden, playing baseball throughout school and enjoying time in the mountains surrounding his family’s southwest VA home.After six years of active duty, Chase was medically discharged from the military due a string of injuries that ultimately required him to have bilateral reconstructive hip surgeries. After learning how to walk again—twice—exercise as medicine and healthy lifestyle modifications became his passion.Chase currently resides in Los Angeles, California.He has been a featured guest on such podcasts as Mind Pump, The Darin Olien Show, Don’t Be Sour, Kreatures of Habit, Live Through Love, Fitness CEO and Endless Endeavor.His podcast, Ever Forward Radio, launched in 2017 and has surpassed 3 MILLION total downloads and is consistently a top-ranked Health & Fitness and Self-Help show on Apple Podcasts, also a top .5% globally ranked podcast.

Chase Chewning Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a small village in Virginia running around in the woods; around 12 his parents moved to Roanoke to be closer to the new family business

Chase started in a new private Christian school which was not fun at the time but his parents didn’t like the public schools in the area; turn out to be a good idea

Decided to follow the family legacy and joined the Army; got a nice signing bonus to be a military linguist; he barely squeaked by in High School Spanish but did it anyway (thanks Mrs. Clark!)

While in Defense Language Institute working on his Army Tech School, he had to take emergency leave to visit his father who was dying of ALS; went back to school and just buried that grief and trauma

Before that, he was trying to get out of the Army to be with his Dad as much as possible; he was doing the paperwork for a “Hardship Discharge”; his dad talked him out that idea

During a field exercise wearing 100+ lbs of body armor and backpack gear; he torn his hamstring; he fell down and thought he got shot with a live round; that led to his medical retirement from the Army

After 12 years he started showing very serious symptoms of PTSD and his wife said he needed to get help or he would be letting her down; getting help for her changed his whole mindset towards getting that help

Connections

Website

Instagram

Youtube

309 Brigette Cutshall
Brigitte Cutshall – Empowers People to Thrive

Brigitte Cutshall – Empowers People to Thrive

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:45 — 64.2MB)

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Brigitte Cutshall is an unabashed health advocate. Her goal is to “empower others not just to survive, but thrive,” and encourages to focus on what’s important to find your inner strength.

Brigitte is the founder of Gemini Media, host of Real Things Living Podcast, a Health Advocate and focuses on delivering the best solutions to her clients. She’s an accomplished business development professional in the communications, publishing and print management industry.

One of Brigitte’s goals is to “empower others from just surviving to thriving” and participates in wellness events. She’s a speaker and the author of three books – RealThings: 6 Ways to Embrace Life , Expecting the Good: Inspiration from a Badass with a Big Heart , and Quality Book Formula – and successfully develops content for wellness and healthy lifestyles, resulting in being featured as a contributing writer on HuffingtonPost, DrLaura.com, Intent.com, Wellness.com, Sharecare.com, and TheMomiverse.
from brigittecutshall.com

Brigette Cutshall Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up all over and was a military brat; Dad #1 had PTSD from Vietnam and divorced mom; Stepdad was so awesome she wrote a whole about how awesome he was

Couldn’t wait to get out of Southern Georgia, to hot and humid; went to college in Wisconsin and and discovered the mosquitos were very big and loved to bite her; landed in northern Georiga

Trailed blazed as a woman and got a marketing job after starting as a admin assistance, advanced to product manager and eventually got in business development

Cancer #1 was breast cancer got treatment and thought that was over; later discovered a rare tumor in her brain that no doctor knew anything about; looks like it may have been from exposure to radiation

The breast cancer came back later and she needed surgery this time; learned she couldn’t handle dairy or caffeine; always loved veggies, chicken and fish

Loves walking and running in nature because it’s fun! The 3 pillars are movement, nutrition and rest which includes good sleeping habits but there is more to finding a restful life rhythm

Started her own business to help people write their own books and repurpose what content they already create

Connections

brigettecutshall.com

308 Jason Bahamundi
Jason Bahamundi – Helping Ordinary People Doing the Extraordinary

Jason Bahamundi – Helping Ordinary People Doing the Extraordinary

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:07 — 78.5MB)

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Jason Bahamundi is the Founder of Run Tri Bike, a multimedia platform that is the voice of the everyday athlete. He started this company to show people a spot at the starting line for everybody and every body because endurance sports are a great way to find life in your life.

At Run • Tri • Bike, we’re passionate about endurance sports and the incredible individuals who participate in them. We believe that anyone, regardless of their gender, race, sexual orientation, or physical abilities, can find a place at the starting line. Through inspiring stories of athletes from diverse backgrounds, we aim to break down barriers and prove that endurance sports are for everybody and every body.

We’re here to guide and support you on your own endurance sports journey. Our goal is simple: to help you embrace the fun, excitement, and personal growth that these sports offer. Through captivating stories, insightful tips, and engaging content, we aim to demystify endurance sports and show you that they’re not just for elite athletes.

The athletes featured on our website have faced obstacles that could have prevented them from moving forward but instead kept showing up. Some of them are recovering from alcohol and drug abuse. Others are mothers coming back from pregnancy and still others are just getting started.

What you will find are athletes, like us, who are ordinary people doing the extraordinary.
from runtrimag.com

Jason Bahamundi Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in the Bronx and played all the sports in school (baseball, football, basketball); also hung out with a diverse group of kids

Went to college in upstate New York near Canada; the marketing was great because they bring in kids for tours in the spring only to find out later that the snow comes in October

He knew he wanted to major in business but no quite sure which degree; the accounting book was really thick but the marketing book looked pretty thin—marketing!

Lived in a frat house and had sort of an “Animal House” sort of college experience; painted the basement floor red and then had a party down there before the paint was dry

Had a job bartering old inventory from companies (like black and decker drills) for advertising time on TV; what the TV stations did with the drills was not his concern

He got voluntold to do a half Marathon and did it with out really training; he finished but realized he didn’t train enough

Jason prefers the 100 mile race to the 5k race because you get more time to enjoy the experience; by the way you don’t run the whole 100 miles, there is some walking/sleeping/hiking in there as well

Believes that anyone, regardless of their gender, race, sexual orientation, or physical abilities, can find a place at the starting line

Connections

RunTriMag.com

Katrina Foe – Science-Backed Way To Transform your Health Naturally

Katrina Foe – Science-Backed Way To Transform your Health Naturally

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:40 — 78.7MB)

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Katrina Foe is a board certified holistic nutritionist, who knows that when we look at health, we should be looking at the body as a whole. After overcoming her own cancer 100% naturally, and driven by her core belief that the body can heal itself, Katrina went on to become board certified in holistic nutrition and trained to read functional labs.

As a faculty member at Restorative Wellness Solutions, Katrina teaches practitioners to interpret functional labs and design individualized protocols. Katrina is also a certified Metabolic Approach to Cancer practitioner, having been trained and mentored by Dr. Nasha Winters. Katrina’s approach to cancer addresses the root cause of the disease and empowers clients to keep it in remission without living in fear of recurrence.

In her international bestseller, Nutritional Pilates, Katrina offers a framework for whole body health that casts light on potential obstacles that can obstruct wellbeing, while providing proven strategies to sidestep chronic disease.

Katrina Foe Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Scottsdale AZ and was an academic nerd and also into movement and dance; went to college for Dance and Kinesiology

Discovered a lump on her breast after having a child, was not interested in the chemo/radiation treatment options

Went to one of those nutritional cancer treatment centers in Mexico to treat the cancer; she had many questions about the treatment that the doctors did not have answers instead she was asked to “trust the system” – no thanks, she left

Kept going and found natural methods to treat her cancer and was able to become cancer free; she went all in and moved to Idaho and made all there food even raised their own cows

There is only one diet that can help you kill cancer and that is keto; Cancer cells require LOTS of glucose thrive and grow; the keto diet switches your body into ketosis using fat for energy instead of glucose and also starves cancer cells

Some of the most overlooked causes of cancer are toxics in our environment; all but one client screened positive for mold; one client was exposed to benzene for a car exhaust leaking into the driving compartment

Insurance based medicine only screens for a few big possible cancers (coloscopy, mammogram, check for enlarged prostate; only most zero blood screens for cancer

Connections

nutritionalpilates.com

designedforhealth.net

Anna Zschuppe – Overcoming Shame and Rejection

Anna Zschuppe – Overcoming Shame and Rejection

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:13 — 60.8MB)

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Anna Zschuppe works as a stress/burnout coach at Summer SOULstice. She helps overwhelmed Type As and overworked business owners at the end of their rope. She helps them to relieve stress, find connection, and regain balance so they can show up for their work and their loved ones. All while making time for themselves. She helps people identify where stress is popping up in their lives, how it’s being stored within them, and ways to relieve the tension by connecting with their mind, body and spirit. She provides strategies/tactics to proactively minimize burnout so that people can find fulfillment both at home and in the office. Anna utilizes a holistic approach that combines body movement, spiritual healing, and mind management/mindfulness techniques so that she and her clients can work toward solutions and breakthroughs together in both one-on-one and group coaching settings.Anna Zschuppe is the CEO and founder of Summer SOULstice, LLC based out of Dallas, Texas. Anna left her six-figure, Fortune 500 job in corporate America at age 26 to pursue her entrepreneurial dream of stress/burnout coaching and made $15K within her first three months of launching full time. Anna also is a certified career coach rated 4.8 out of 5 stars on LinkedIn and has served college students and executives alike for 5+ years across the globe. She has provided HR strategy and transformation services to clients in the private and public sectors, and she now works closely with Catholic organizations and SMBs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area as a keynote speaker and HR consultant.

Anna Zschuppe Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a small town near Cleveland Ohio; went to private catholic school until 8th grade; went to public High School in a new town and struggled with bullying; lost herself and became introverted

Girls on her soccer team would say mean things to her and she really took those words to heart and couldn’t understand where those words and feelings were coming from

She didn’t know how to process those feelings; she went hard on doing homework; she would hideout in her room listening to her iPod and crying herself to sleep

In college she was more able to be her old self from K-8; outgoing extraverted and singing in the cafeteria

How we learn shame like why it’s not ok to take off our pants in public; but we don’t learn all about shame consciously; shame can make us feel like we deserve punishment even when we don’t

Finding moderation with “fun” things like alcohol, exercise, work, shopping, eating et al can help you stay healthy while enjoying life; when the moderation takes a break you can get in trouble

Celebrating her one-year full time coach anniversary; trying to work smarter not harder and how to best serve people

What’s ok to say to your football team’s rival fans and what’s not; there is a line for Bear’s fans I learned not to cross

For Type A people, sometimes shame comes when we are “not good enough” and we always need to do better and be perfect

Rejection always hurts, as in a break up; we feel like we are not “right” and we need to change to be better–maybe, but probably you need to find someone who loves you “AS IS” warts and all

Connections

Website

LinkedIn

305 Sergio Nazzaro
Sergio Nazzaro – How to Live the Life you Actually Want

Sergio Nazzaro – How to Live the Life you Actually Want

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:42 — 82.0MB)

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Sergio Nazzaro, five years ago, had $12,000 in credit card debt and was making $24,000/year. He left that job and took a pay cut to make $0 and begin his entrepreneurial career. In 24 months he made his first $1,000,000 but his relationship with his fiancé (now wife) almost came to an end. Sergio believes you can have it all in this life – elite health and fitness at 39, a deep connection with yourself and your creator, a relationship with your partner that is on fire and children who adore you and look up to you as their role model –all while creating a business to support the life of your dreams and build prosperity. Sergio is on a mission to help entrepreneurs become great in all areas of their lives.

Sergio Nazzaro Vroom Vroom Veer

Born in New Jersey and moved to Houston while pretty young; experienced the North/South culture shock pretty hard

Mom and Dad got the bad end of a real estate deal and took a significant financial hit; moved the family to Colorado and lived there ever since

Used perseverance and tenacity to get into the Air Force academy; graduated and decided not to become a pilot as the lifestyle didn’t look that appealing

Got into a little bit of trouble when he “side stepped” himself into a deployment Afghanistan; thought he might have to use his side arm once

Suffered from PTSD and started “self medicating” with alcohol and other unhealthy ways to avoid pain; finally hit rock bottom decided to get professional help

Worked his ass off helping a friend start a cross fit business; great work, but only made $24K in a year

Worked a corporate job for a while and bumped up to about 65k; saw that it was a going nowhere job

Built a real estate business and made a ton of money; that came at the cost of not feeding other areas of his life

Started a coaching program to help entrepreneurs live the life the actually want

Connections

Website

Instagram @sergio.nazzaro

Tik Tok – @sergionazzaro

Derek Sivers useful not true https://sive.rs/u

Fire Walk with me Poem

304 Chrissy Trotter
Chrissy Trotter – Destined Globe Trotter

Chrissy Trotter – Destined Globe Trotter

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:54 — 80.0MB)

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Chrissy Trotter is a travel content creator and travel advisor that helps her audience, and customers take action on their bucket list and overcome challenges to travel. She visited 45 countries, 46 states, and counting. Christina is a big believer in sabbaticals and resetting priorities.

Chrissy Trotter Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Dad was in the Air Force so she moved around while growing up, started in Andrews Air Force Base; met Anwar Sadat in the Distinguished Visitors lounge as a kid

Graduated High School in San Antonio TX, met her future husband there who was an Army brat; they both loved travel

Went to college at UT Austin before Austin blew up; got a degree in Management Information Systems; figured out before graduating that she didn’t like programming

Got a job in Dallas working for IBM and working strategy and change; worked there 15 years before her big veer

Took a year “leave of absence” from work (good idea) and did a world backpacking tour; visited all the countries and cities that were not the top tourist destinations to keep costs down; put all their stuff in a storage unit

Had two kids and worked about 5 more years and decided to quit just before lockdown; boss asked her to come back and gave her a 3 year leave absence; 1 year into that she got let go but with severance!

She has hybrid camper for road travel; found out they prefer glamping to camping when not flying for travel

Connections

Website

303 Jennifer Sontag
Jennifer Sontag – Italian Citizenship Concierge

Jennifer Sontag – Italian Citizenship Concierge

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:28 — 89.9MB)

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Jennifer Sontag, the founder of Italian Citizenship Concierge, was raised in the US but is 100% Sicilian at heart. Raised in a typical Sicilian family in the Midwest, she is passionate about the island she now calls home. An entrepreneur for over 30 years with a Ph.D. in social and behavioral sciences, she has spent her career supporting clients through life-changing experiences. Since moving to Sicily, Jennifer has focused solely on helping her clients transform their lives through Italian citizenship recognition.

Jennifer Sontag Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in St. Louis which is a nice mix American cultures; made for a diverse set of worldviews and mindsets

Instead of spending her college money on college, Jenn convinced her parents that she could use that money to start a maternity boutique; 8 years later she sold that business to a big company

Went to college at age 35 and did a bachelors in social work; she had been working as a volunteer; discovered that she didn’t want to do social work as a job

Got a Master Degree in Public Health and later a PhD; never used those for work, but did discover many transferable skills

Was living and working in Shanghai China and had to fly home to the states for a little brain surgery; got back to China just in time for Lockdown of 2020; thankfully that only went from Feb – May

Went to China with a teaching job that she never signed the contract for; had to shop for a new teaching job; 1st hired as a “Science Teacher” because she had a “Masters of Science”

Discovered while living in China that should could get an Italian Passport and keep her America Passport because she had a blood connection; her Dad went and found all the paperwork in St. Louis

Connections

Website https://viamonde.eu/

302 Amber James
Amber James – Notes to Self

Amber James – Notes to Self

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:44 — 77.9MB)

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Amber James is an author and creator of @NotesToSelfShop, empowering women to live their best lives. Her upcoming memoir, I Blew Up My Life, and I’ve Never Been Happier focuses on how she took a leap of faith following a tumultuous year of toxic relationships and health issues in search of true happiness.

Amber James Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a suburb of Cleveland, OH; on the Tennis Team in high school; getting good grades was her plan to get out of Ohio

Only applied to one college in Ohio due to their great journalism program; got in on the first try

Did an internship during college at CosmoGirl! Magazine; that didn’t turn into a job; decided to move to New York City anyway and try to find a job

In 2008, landed her first job at AOL and had an amazing video studio she co-hosted a celebrity news video podcast and did red carpet interviews

Great story about the Jonas brother; they are all super nice; but one brother will give you the shirt off his back and it’s not Nick

Shouted out: “You should get an Oscar for the Social Network” to Justin Timberlake; he said “clearly you haven’t seen the movie…” but she got an interview

Once didn’t know what to ask a person on the red carpet; blurted out “Who you are wearing?” to a fashion designer; played it off by saying “only joking!” bad save

Starting writing positive affirmations on sticky notes all over her place to help her through a rough patch; started posting those on Instagram and that became a thing…many big things!

Connections

Notes to Self Shop

Instagram

301 Steve Haffner
Steve Haffner – Mind Performance Strategist

Steve Haffner – Mind Performance Strategist

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:43 — 93.1MB)

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Steve’ Haffner’s life is full of transitions, as he transformed from I.T. professional and executive to magician to professional speaker. He uses his experience in creating illusions to teach audiences how their mind’s weaknesses and misperceptions interfere with their performance and ability to solve problems.

Steve Haffner Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up Louisville KY he was shy and loved creative writing and performing on stage in plays and shows

After Highschool, instead of pursuing those things that he loved; he studied computer science in college of course; he loved computers too

Later, he worked in various roles in IT; found a book on magic in a clearance section; he bought the book and tried out the magic on his kids; the kids kind of liked magic, but Steve loved it!

Had the idea of starting a business doing magic for family events, birthday party’s even trade shows

Really found his niche in corporate speaking gigs; the first gig wasn’t great from his point of view he had some learning to do

He joined the National Speakers Association and even became his local chapter president to hone his skills as a speaker

Now using magic tricks to entertain and educate corporate audiences with a variety of topics and how magic can help us to see our blind spots

Connections

Website

The name of the person I blanked on was Alex Blumberg Here is the link to the course I mentioned

300 Michael Andersen
Michael Andersen – Digital Nomad Full time RVer

Michael Andersen – Digital Nomad Full time RVer

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:50 — 76.7MB)

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Michael Andersen is a Gen Exer who defied convention, leaving behind his corporate career and material possessions. With his girlfriend, he embarked on a transformative year-long voyage in an RV, embracing full-time travel and self-discovery. This extraordinary journey resulted in the birth of new ventures and a life filled with less stress and boundless adventure.

Michael Andersen Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in the south side of Chicago in a suburb of a suburb of burb; single mom was a hippy and they camped when rent was late

In college, he arranged keg parties and sold cups for 5 dollars; the party last until the cops show up

Was also running a recording studio and a playing bass in a band; a natural for corporate event planner; somewhere along the line also learned how to make WordPress websites

Did a test run long vacation in a converted shuttle bus; then got a job offer in North Carolina

One day got a raise at work and his rent went up the exact dollar amount to eat his raise; started thinking about doing the digital nomad life

Got an RV for about the same budget as a year’s rent (the RV was a little less); hit the road and now they live and work from the road

They have traveled to 30ish states so far; one highlight was the Big Tent Show in Quartzsite AZ; learned desert living is certainly adjustment; coyotes so close to a pug is a little scary for sure

Connections

That Andersen Guy

Traveling Gatherings

Sweat Dreams are Made with RVs (Facebook & Instagram)

299 Adam Vosding
Adam Vosding – Traveling Food Dude

Adam Vosding – Traveling Food Dude

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 53:32 — 73.6MB)

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Adam Vosding “took a break” from his corporate career to travel around North America with his dog, Holland (@HollandThePup). Five-plus years later he is still traveling around enjoying life like he only ever dreamed about. He’s have been showcasing his travels on his social media platforms: @TravelingFoodDude and have found many unique jobs to fund my travels along the way! He also bought a van a couple years ago that has proven to be such a fun way to keep on traveling! Adam took his dog to every NHL arena and we were just featured on the NHL Network during a studio visit a few weeks ago when we were in New Jersey!

Adam Vosding Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in London, Ontario Canada between Detroit and Toronto and loved teams from both cities

His parents won a green card lottery and moved the family to Florida while he has a teenager

Given the option of mowing the lawn for no money or getting a job, he decided getting paid was better so he got a job a Publix grocery store

Worked at Publix all through high school and went to college and got corporate job in Publix doing commercial real estate and property management

In a fated job interview, someone asked what was his passion? He didn’t know, so he thought about it and came up with travel and eating…love it!

Now he travels and finds work on the the road, he is currently working at a dude ranch in Colorado working the summer as a cook

Found out that it’s pretty easy to find street parking in New York City in his camper van, then you are only a couple blocks away from that amazing bakery!

Connections

Facebook

Linkedin

298 Misha Rubin
Misha Rubin – How to Make Meaningful and Intentional Changes in Life and Work

Misha Rubin – How to Make Meaningful and Intentional Changes in Life and Work

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:28 — 78.4MB)

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Misha Rubin is a teacher and entrepreneur that provides transformational career programs that are designed to help people discover meaningful careers that work for their lives. He spent over 20 years in corporate America as a partner at Ernst & Young until he decided it was time to take the plunge and serve his purpose: guiding others toward their own purpose.

His corporate experience combined with profound mentorship and his personal quest for meaning and fulfillment; birthed The Career Leap method, a guided inquiry that brings awareness to deep parts of oneself, creates new career possibilities and moves into action, changing lives forever.

Misha Rubin on Vroom Vroom Veer

Fun Story about a client with a pharmacology degree, owned a construction business, and then created an organic farm

Another client loved being an attorney, but wanted to transition from international law to entertainment law

Positive Pandemic: What makes our current work climate ripe for unprecedented career opportunities?

Remote Work: When You Aren’t Tied to a Geographical Location.

How the Concept of “Career” has Changed Over Time.

How do you know if being an entrepreneur is right for you?

Job search and interviewing: The Only Time You Need to “Perform” is When You’re Acting.

Discovering Your Inner Ingredients to Create the Perfect Recipe for Career with Meaning, Fulfillment and Success.

Principles of Impactful Communication (Authenticity, Relevance, and Transparency)

What are 2 reasons people get stuck in their careers and stay there?

Connections

Website

The Career Leap

297 David Lawson
David Lawson – Awake Warrior: Grief, Loss, Numbing, Addiction, Mediation, Healing; Processing Emotions

David Lawson – Awake Warrior: Grief, Loss, Numbing, Addiction, Mediation, Healing; Processing Emotions

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:12 — 76.3MB)

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David Lawson and his team help men like you transform their lives through self-mastery to create personal and professional abundance.

The youngest of 3 siblings, I had an unremarkable childhood with strict, loving parents. Following in the footsteps of my older brother, I fell in love with hockey and spent my early teenage years traveling from arena to arena.

(Then) one cold New Year’s day, while driving me to a hockey game, I noticed my Dad rubbing his left arm. Suddenly, he fell into my lap and as the car veered into the ditch I felt him take his last breath. My dad was gone.

After my dad’s funeral I felt numb and detached. While my mother grieved the loss of the love of her life, I had no idea how to process the emotions and grief I was feeling.

As men, our culture neither teaches, allows nor gives us permission to cry, grieve or process many of our emotions.

So I did the only thing I knew how to do – play hockey. My dad and I had talked about me earning a hockey scholarship, and after a lot of early morning practices and hard work I received a scholarship. After four years of long bus rides and sustaining physical injuries, my focus began to shift.

David Lawson Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up ice skating on a lake in the Toronto area, lived in the same area as some famous Canadians

Was on a fast track at the age of 15 playing hockey at the “Junior” level where school classes become secondary to practice/travel/hockey games

His father died on his lap while driving to a hockey game; didn’t have the tools to deal with grief and loss so he just numbed that emotional pain

He double-down on being a High-Achiever never thinking about emotions or self care until finally he was so exhausted that he couldn’t do it anymore

Googled Business Retreat and found a 10-day retreat at the Chopra Center in SoCal; fell in love with meditation on his first try; experienced Ayurvedic Massage, meditaiton and yoga and felt amazing

Through these experiences he started to look at the emotions that he had been numbing since age 15 and his emotional and physical health slowly started to improve

Visited India for further treatments twice and also received acupuncture from a Chinese medicine doctor near home; this same doctor suggested Qigong as a way to do maintenance without needles

Connections

296 Tanya Cole Lesnick
Tanya Cole-Lesnick -The Power of Group Therapy; Clear Energetic Clutter

Tanya Cole-Lesnick -The Power of Group Therapy; Clear Energetic Clutter

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:41 — 79.5MB)

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Tanya Cole-Lesnick has been a psychotherapist (licensed clinical social worker) and coach since 1995. She received her master’s degree in social work from New York University after group therapy changed her life. She has extensive experience in outpatient hospital mental health, private practice, and wellness center settings. From those experiences over the years she has identified her most important focus—helping people to live lives that light them up. She does this by helping clients to access and honor their truth, to change habits that don’t serve them, and to heal faulty narratives so that they are living in alignment inside and out. Her work revolves around intimate groups as the sharing of inner worlds and being human together in a safe space is what she finds to be the most powerful way for lives to transform.

Tanya Cole-Lesnick Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Chevy Chase Maryland in a suburban area around DC; played soccer and did track in High School; when she started getting interested in boys her grades suffered a little bit

Worked as a Graphic Artist after college and was struggling finding a long-term love relationship; found a therapist even with the shame and stigma around therapy

Her therapist suggested group therapy which she was afraid to try but did it anyway because she trusted her therapist

She went through a whole group session without saying anything; in the 2nd session a man in the group told her “I could feel your neediness right away”  

Group therapy was so transformational for her that she went back to school to be a therapist herself and really fell in love with group and mostly helping women

Learned there is nothing wrong with us, what we are feeling is just part of the human condition

Traditional Roles for women are celebrated as “she does it all” which is probably impossible to fulfill all those roles with perfection;

Being a Good Girl and doing what you “should” can make you feel like you will never measure up

Sharing your secrets and things you are ashamed of in group gives others in group the permission they need to say “oh me too”; my shame was a little different but still just as shameful

Going through the discomfort of sharing shame is difficult for sure; but it’s worth the relief to realize that carrying shame is part of the human condition and we need to keep “wiping the slate clean”; it never gets easier but you always feel better after doing that

Connections

Website

Instagram

295 Drexwell Seymour
Drexwell Seymour Rise Up and Take your Position

Drexwell Seymour Rise Up and Take your Position

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:19 — 79.7MB)

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Drexwell Seymour is a Certified Public Accountant and is the managing partner and founder of the HLB TCI accounting firm. Perhaps more importantly, Drexwell is a man on a mission to inspire, encourage and influence others to overcome setbacks and systemic injustice and to find their purpose in life. To that end, he hosts a YouTube channel and Financially Speaking, a weekly radio show, and is the author of the internationally best-selling Rise Up And Take Your Position, as well as the creator of a short film by the same name.

Drexwell grew up on a small island in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where there were limitedopportunities and terrible colorism, but he strived and thrived, eventually receiving a full scholarshipfor a BA in Accounting to Wilmington College at the age of 16 and later graduating from MiamiCollege with an MBA in finance. As he grew older, despite his achievements, building a successfulaccounting firm and a property management company from the ground up, he was hauntedthrough his life by the low self esteem and lack of confidence that he had been instilled with duringhis childhood. It wasn’t until a mere 4 years ago that he discovered his life’s purpose, helpingothers to never feel the way that he had been made to feel. Drexwell and his wife, Joanna, live inthe Turks and Caicos Islands with their 5 children.

Drexwell Seymour Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a very small town in Turks and Caicos playing marbles and softball; lots of family and friends visiting entertaining each other

Wanted to have a penpal in America when he was 10 years old, lied and said he was older and gave the age 18 but said he was born in 1970

Had an inferiority complex because of his dark skin; the culture taught him that dark skin people are inferior to light skin people; his older brother has light skinned

Went to school in the British system, were you finish high school at age 16 and then get your A-levels. Drex got a scholarship to attend college in Ohio from a donor from Michigan.

Finished his bachelors a year early because he did credits during the summers, now, regrets not taking summers off; then went right in and did a master degree for 1.5 years.

In 2019 he finally overcame his inferority complex with the help of this wife and this faith and reading scripture

His wife kept telling him that his beliefs about himself were not true and that all people were equal

Drex also found confirmation in scripture that all men are created equal in the eyes of god

Drex found that he was avoiding writing his whole life; now, he found that writing is part of his purpose of sharing his message of overcoming inferiority complex

Be mindful of “why” you avoiding whatever you are avoiding; maybe you should just do it and see if you find something there.

Connections

Website

Rise Up and Take Your Position: Don’t give up. Find your Gift and Cultivate it

YouTube Channel

294 Anish Majumdar
Anish Majumdar – Career Coach and Hidden Job Market Expert

Anish Majumdar – Career Coach and Hidden Job Market Expert

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:51 — 89.2MB)

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Anish Majumdar is a Career Coach and expert in the Hidden Job Market. Over the past 12 years, he has helped thousands of professionals around the world take the reins of their professional destiny and break free of the necessity of “job searching”- permanently.

His webinars, videos and articles have appeared in Fast Company, Business Insider, Glassdoor, and Ivy Exec. He lives with his wife and three children in Rochester, NY.

Anish Majumdar – Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Montreal Canada; mother was an English teacher; when her father died it triggered onset of schizophrenia; because of the stigma surrounding mental illness his home life was isolated from the world

Spent years writing and acting professionally and learning the craft of the audition

Once you are in the process of job posting/interviewing it may be too late to create the context to show how awesome you really are

Current job hiring process is not serving companies or employees; it’s important to understand that companies are struggling to solve a problem they may not understand; if you can help them understand their problem; even if you don’t get the job you provide value and the company will remember that

Story about “the Oracle in the Matrix” who didn’t like how her company was trying to “shuffle her off” into retirement mode; she held onto her own power and created a new context for her 70’s

Wrote The Isolation Door about living with a mother with schizophrenia

Speaking with CEOs and C Suite people should not be terror inducing; we are all just people trying to help each other; those C Suite people poop and struggle just like you

Connections

Website

Linkedin

Youtube

293 Carrington Smith
Carrington Smith Finding Gifts in the Shit of Life

Carrington Smith Finding Gifts in the Shit of Life

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:09 — 66.5MB)

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Carrington Smith is a single mom, attorney, business owner, and executive search professional. Despite being born with a silver spoon in her mouth, life gave her a hard kick in the tail. She has survived sexual assault, two divorces, piles of debt, abuse, religious mind games, the death of loved ones, and the loss of close friends.

In her debut memoir, Carrington combines wit and wisdom to share her journey through the shit, with a positive attitude and a shift of mindset, into a life bursting with joy, opportunity, and purpose.

Carrington is passionate about empowering people in all aspects of their life and career by reframing their circumstances and experiences, shifting their mindset, creating a vision for their life, and then breaking it down into specific measurable achievable realistic time-bound (SMART) goals. She helps people and organizations move past excuses, shame, and fear to identify where they want to end up, the steps necessary to get there, and how to deal with any obstacles in the way.

Carrington Smith Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up on the East Coast in a mom’s family that had status and a “name” but the old money was gone; mom married a doctor to keep the status

Dad moved the family to Washington state under suspicious circumstances “shenanigans'”; in the blue collar town mom kept dressing like East Coast Money

Her father was physically, emotionally, spiritually abusive to her and her family; viciously beat a dog with a 2×4 until it broke in half

Older brother and sister got to attend the fancy schools but not Carrie; she went to public school and all the hand-me-downs

Went to college first in Washington state where she raped; after the trauma of that event moved to Austin, TX to finish undergrad

Started dating a bar manager from Bourbon street; he got to her heart through her stomach; she didn’t have enough money for good food

Had fluid coming out of her ear; went to the hospital and the doctor accidently damaged her spinal cord; after five days the hospital her first husband took her to the Justice of the Peace and married her while she was drugged up

2nd marriage latest 10 years and produced two kids; ultimately ended because her husband was toxic to her and the kids

Learned many times the lessons from the “shit” of life; during lockdown; wrote a memoir about finding her power in the shit of life

Connections

Website

292 Peleg Top
Peleg Top – Awaken Your Soul Artist

Peleg Top – Awaken Your Soul Artist

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:05 — 81.1MB)

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Peleg Top is an artist, a speaker, and a Creative High Growth mentor. At 23, he founded Top Design, a premier branding and design agency in Los Angeles specializing in entertainment and cause-related work. He authored several design books and was a sought out speaker at creative conferences around the world.

After two successful decades, he sold his agency and transitioned to a new vocation as a business mentor and a spiritual director. Peleg is the creator of the “100 Days of Creative High Growth” program – a soul awakening course that guides people on a powerful path of rediscovering their creative free spirit and expressing their authentic voice.

As a spiritual director, Peleg teaches tools and rituals that help creative professionals at a crossroads reconnect with their inner soul artist and reinvent their lives.

Over the past 25 years, Peleg has spoken in front of thousands and in intimate one-on-one interviews. He is passionate about spreading his message of love, creativity, and abundance to leaders in the creative world.

Peleg Top Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Tel Aviv in Israel until he was 15, then moved to Los Angeles; it was a big change but not as shocking as you might expect

Tel Aviv was like living in a war zone, terrorist attacks and bombings were a part of daily life;

Dad worked as a aircraft mechanic so got access to cheap/free flights, visited the states when he was nine years old and the whole country felt like Disneyland

After 18 years of marriage and a tough divorce and the death of his cat, his spiritual director suggested he put his stuff in storage and travel; he sold his house and travelled for 2 years

Had a rivalry with his younger brother who was stealing all of the attention; fought a lot with brother during childhood but made amends later

His youngest brother was 13 years younger than him; he feels like that was his “parenting” role and he never felt drawn to have kids of his own

Suggests that instead of asking “What’s next?” Ask “Who do I want to become?” How can I listen to that still small voice and be my most authentic self.

Cannabis and Alcohol could not more different; Cannabis is medicine and should be used with intention and for healing

Connections

PelegTop.com

291 Jaime B. Haas
Jaime B. Haas – Release your Past, Make the Life you Want

Jaime B. Haas – Release your Past, Make the Life you Want

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:57 — 74.7MB)

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Jaime B. Haas is founder of the Jaime B. Haas Method, a guided process that draws from spirituality, positive psychology, mindfulness and life experiences. The Method helps individuals heal from intergenerational, societal and emotional trauma, freeing them to reconnect with their personal power, gain clarity on what they really want to achieve in life, and dismantle any deep-seated beliefs holding them back from moving forward.

Her work is motivated by a painful past until, at 40, she came to a place of complete surrender. Her approach is rooted in the belief that when you focus on finding the root of the pain and the related stories you’ve told yourself you will be able to change the way you see yourself and the world.

Known to her clients as the Soul Surgeon, they say her Method has helped heal wounds that no other modality, including therapy, was able to help them achieve and find lasting love—starting with themselves.

Jaime B. Haas Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in the suburbs of Philly until she was 10; mom and dad divorced and mom took her to live in the city; was a shy kid hiding from cameras and keeping to herself

Went to performance arts school like Fame; studied acting and dance; starting opening up being less shy and more extraverted

Around 17 she and her friends got fake IDs and started going to night clubs; drinking and cocaine was awesome

Planned a huge party when her parents were out of town; not only did her step dad bust the party but he called all her friends’ parents; her whole class thought she was a rat-thankfully she moved

Near rock bottom with drugs and alcohol; met with a childhood friend who took one look at her health and arranged a big family intervention; struggled with the decision to enter recovery

Once she decided to get into recovery she was all in and just wanted to beat addiction; recovery saved her life 10 years sober; she still had work to do around releasing her past programming from mom and dad; developed a method to help people do this work

Connections

Website

290 Dr. Eric Holsapple
Dr. Eric Holsapple – Living in the Gap

Dr. Eric Holsapple – Living in the Gap

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:45 — 74.3MB)

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Dr Eric Holsapple has a PhD in Economics, has been a real estate CEO and developer for nearly 40 years, lectured real estate at Colorado State University for 20 years, and practiced yoga and meditation for 30 years. Eric was awarded The Colorado State University Real Estate Entrepreneur of the Year in 2010; and Bizwest Bravo Entrepreneur of the year award for Loveland, CO in 2015. Holsapple has a unique perspective on how merging business and mindfulness can be a catalyst in changing lives. Eric is the Founder of Living In The Gap. His popular workshops teach CEOs and professionals a different way to operate mindfully while improving the bottom line. Eric has written numerous published articles in real estate and economics, and a book entitled Profit with Presence that will be published in early 2023.

Dr. Eric Holsapple – Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Remembers when he was 4 years old standing at the end of the driveway wanting to go to a football game with his dad who as the football coach; dad said he had to stay home

Played all kinds of sports as a kid baseball, football track and downhill snow skiing; Got in trouble with the cops in 70’s while “streaking”; took off his clothes ran to the end of the block ran back to the house and his friend turned on the light and locked the door

Ran the “blue light special” in K-mart selling women’s wigs; turns out he had the perfect voice to run a blue light special

Realized one day that he was about 50 pounds overweight and not feeling good; did Nutrisystem’s and lost about 40 pounds in a few weeks

Found his way to meditation and mindfulness through yoga and watching his brother transform and heal his relationship with their father

Bringing mindfulness into business and work is a natural way to make more money; people are attracted to people who are happy and healthy and want to help them succeed.

Connections

LinkedIN

289 Terry Tucker
Terry Tucker – Learning to Survive Cancer One Day at a Time

Terry Tucker – Learning to Survive Cancer One Day at a Time

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:03 — 78.2MB)

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Terry Tucker is the Founder of Motivational Check LLC and the author of Sustainable Excellence, Ten Principles To Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary Life.

I have reinvented myself frequently over my professional career. After I graduated from college at The Citadel (where I played NCAA Division I basketball), I was employed in the Marketing Department at the corporate headquarters of Wendy’s International in Dublin, Ohio. From there, I worked in hospital administration for Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. After getting married and moving to California, I became the Customer Service Manager for an academic publishing company in Santa Barbara. When our daughter was born and we moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, I became a police officer with the Cincinnati Police Department, where I was a SWAT Hostage Negotiator. In 2004, I obtained my Masters degree from Boston University. Following a family relocation to Texas, I started a school security consulting business and coached high school girls basketball. Each time I took on a new job, I had to develop new skills and faced different challenges. There was always a significant learning curve with every new position.- From Terry’s About me Page

Terry Tucker Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Terry remembers getting a giant stuffed dog named fluffy when he was about 2 years old, he climbed all over it and tried to eat it

Spent his childhood running the streets in Chicago spending all day on his bike looking for things to do and people to hang out with; probably got hurt sometimes and that’s pretty cool

If he could talk to his younger self what would you say? Don’t be afraid to do something you want to do. You won’t regret the things you did; you will regret not doing things you wanted to do

4 year old Terry was upset that his parents told him to go upstairs and brush his teeth; he was expressing his anger towards his parents while brushing his teeth; his dad heard that and put him to bed for the rest of the night

MJ showed up at basketball practice to pick up his kids; that turned out to be a bit of a distraction to the other kids on the team

Went through the stages of grief when was first diagnosed with cancer; when on interferon he was praying to die; god gave him the strength and resolve to fight to live and win each day

Admiral Stockdale survived the Hanoi Hilton by learning to control what he could control; breathing and thinking; face the fact that you may die here; it’s up to you to decide to survive

Connections

Website

Sustainable Excellence Membership

Sustainable Excellence (Book link)

In Love and War

Man’s Search for Meaning

288 Justin Skinner
Justin Skinner – Professional Failure

Justin Skinner – Professional Failure

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:42 — 66.3MB)

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Justin Skinner is a farm-raised entrepreneur, author, speaker and performance coach from the great Midwest. He lives in Springfield, Missouri with his beautiful wife Kendra Skinner, and their little dog Daisy. Justin played collegiate baseball as a two-way player and is now a full-time author and real-estate investor. His is the author of the book Professional Failure and host of the Professional Failure podcast, where he and his guests share stories and lessons learned form past failures. Justin has many stories of failures and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way to success. His is passionate about sharing these lessons he has learned with others so they may enjoy their own success in life. In his downtime, Justin enjoys travelling with Kendra, playing pickleball, having good conversations, and anything active.

Justin Skinner Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Wonderful (gross) story about a dare in kindergarten; learned later that dare was “shameful”

Stole a $10 necklace from a store on a dare; got a away with it, but felt so guilty he snuck back into the store and put it back

Amazing story about a squirrel and moth balls; sometimes an effective solution also comes with unforeseen consequences

Learned a valuable lesson on a ski lift on his first ski trip ever; what to do if you lose a ski on the ski lift?

Tried out for Major League Baseball after college; Chicago Cubs gave him a draft number; Gut punch–he did not get drafted

Went through an identity crisis; who am I if I am not a professional baseball player; am I a professional failure?

Got fired from a job and later realized that he was fired because he just wasn’t doing a great job as an employee

Started investing in real-estate and hosting rentals on Airbnb with his wife doing design; started talking to other entrepreneurs who had a different perspective on failure

Connections

Website

287 Dr Gary Lawrence
Dr. Gary Lawrence – How to Heal from your Past

Dr. Gary Lawrence – How to Heal from your Past

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:30 — 72.3MB)

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Dr. Gary Lawrence and his wife Sylvia have spent their lives successfully leading others to “identify, isolate, and eliminate” the root cause of the emotional turmoil in their lives. Over the course of 23 years serving as the founder and director of the New Life Dynamics Christian Counseling Center and 20 years as the host of his own radio show, Life Mastery Counseling with Dr. G, he has personally met with and coached more than 6 thousand clients, has overseen the counseling of another 10,000 clients, and has inspired thousands more on radio, television, and stage.

After retiring, Dr. G took the opportunity to refocus on the timeless principles of his Amazon bestselling book, Rejection Junkies. In this guide to recognizing the damaging effects of rejection and the way in which this trauma manifests constantly throughout all phases of life, Dr. G helps readers to recognize the people, places, things, and circumstances that hold us hostage, keep us stuck, and make us bitter. A true freedom coach, he offers powerful and practical steps to unplug from these emotional energy thieves!

Married for 55 years, Dr. G and Sylvia continue to bring their knowledge, experience, and deep passion to individuals and couples who wish to resolve personal, marital, family, and parenting conflicts.

Dr. Gary Lawrence Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Suffered from abuse from his father as a child; had a fight with his dad at age 16 and left home

Met his wife in college only to learn later that she was sexually and physically abused by her parents

Established a church in Canada and was a pastor; didn’t enjoy being a pastor so he started a counseling practice

After enjoying success with his counseling business decided to retire at age 59; turned out that his investments didn’t do as well as he hoped and the 2009 financial crisis forced him into bankruptcy

Decided to get a new education in real estate investing; in about 14 months started generating enough money and a little more

The next veer was a stroke, he lost his ability to walk and see; his new purpose was to start a coaching practice to help people deal from past trauma and gain emotional intelligence

Updated his book “Rejection Junkies” that he wrote in 1995 to help people learn how to overcome the addiction everyone suffers

Connections

Rejection Junkies (The Book)

286 Dr. Richard Green
Dr. Richard Greene – Turning Ordinary Into Extraordinary

Dr. Richard Greene – Turning Ordinary Into Extraordinary

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:02:10 — 81.2MB)

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Dr. Richard Greene has more than 30 years as a corporate sales executive across many different industries. He’s an author, a business coach, and entrepreneur, 7-time Ironman triathlete, and ultra-distance competitive ocean swimmer. His sales acceleration training system has been highlighted on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and many other outlets.

Dr. Greene has been a featured speaker and worked with companies like Oracle, JP Morgan Chase, Hewlett Packard, Cisco, Coca-Cola, Nestle Foods, The Mayo Clinic, and has coached 1:1 with many of their executives.

As a researcher in the field of human potential, and University Business Professor, he’s studied success factors of those that are the top in their industries, and developed systems that professionals use to create unparalleled success in their careers and in their lives.

His biggest breakthrough in discovering “the success formula” came from his work as a Masters Swim Coach, training triathletes to prepare for their Ironman races. He discovered that these athletes had a unique way of thinking about success and that their mindset was so powerful that it enabled them to face extreme challenges, and succeed where most other people would fail.

Dr. Richard Greene was able to capture this unique mind ability and incorporated it into an elite executive training program called The IronCode. Applied properly, IronCode techniques can transform your mind into a powerful tool that combined with the right skill sets, can make your success in business or your personal life unstoppable.

Dr. Richard Greene Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Classic bookworm nerd in high with glasses; would rather stay in the house and read than play outside

Studied marketing and business in college; learned that sales paid better than marketing…so sales!

Found out the hard way that it’s hard to do sales when you are shy; found How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie; learned how to do sales the right way

In his early 50’s went to the doctor; blood pressure was “through the roof”; doctor said “you will have a stroke and you might die unless you change your ways”; lose 50 pounds and exercise

Started swimming in a pool but that was boring; signed up for a 12 mile swim race; hire a coach so he could train for the race and be good enough to finish

Coach told him to ride a bike (he didn’t want to); Coach told him to run (he didn’t want to) but he did both

Was influenced by his coach to train for a triathlon; lost the weight while training that first year and his blood pressure normalized

Connections

Amazon Book Page

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardbgreene

94 Carl Waggett
Carl Waggett – PTSD Bunker Gear for your Brain (BOV)

Carl Waggett – PTSD Bunker Gear for your Brain (BOV)

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:27 — 62.7MB)

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Carl Waggett: a full-time firefighter for the past 14 years as well as an Acting Captain for 4 of them. Separated with two children, the 3 of us connected to a 911 fire dispatcher and her two kids. After a close co-worker of mine had ended his life, I removed myself from the front-line trucks only to diagnosed with PTSD a short time after.


Carl Waggett Vroom Veer Stories

Carl is a fireman, he breaks stuff for a living, not a computer guy


The wake-up call from his close friend’s suicide helps him notice his own warning signs


Realized that we all have bad days and we need to develop healthy coping strategies


Carl was brought up with the attitude that PTSD comes from war, and battle only


Finds his new wife, should feel amazing–and he feels—nothing


Everybody knows firefighters get bitchy as they get older

We don’t get to choose when we snap into rage


Good therapy is like cleaning out the “garage” in your mind

Carl Waggett Links

You can find Carl hosting PTSD Bunker Gear for Your Brain on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

284 Katty Douraghy
Katty Douraghy – The Butterfly Years

Katty Douraghy – The Butterfly Years

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:01 — 68.3MB)

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Katty Douraghy is an entrepreneur, author, and facilitator. Her memoir, The Butterfly Years: A Journey Through Grief Toward Hope, details her personal journey through grief. Katty hopes to inspire others to work through their grief and find hope on the other side. She is also the President of Artisan Creative, a staffing and recruiting agency focused on digital, creative, and marketing talent and based in Los Angeles.

Katty Douraghy Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Iran until she was 13 years old; she moved to the states and started High School; she pretended to be Italian

High School was a struggle to fit in mostly in survival mode; not telling people the truth about where you come from takes a toll

Went to college in Santa Cruz which is a beach city and the people are hippies and very accepting; she studied English lit even though her English wasn’t great yet

After college studied fashion and worked at Macy’s and worked her way up the ranks for 10 years; always trying to help people learn to grow

Wrote her memoir about her story through grief because she was using journal writing to help her process her grief through to hope and to honor the loved ones she lost

Some of the surprising emotions she felt in her journey was anger at her mother for smoking because she died of lung cancer, she has since let go of that judgement

Another surprising emotion was guilt at feeling zest, joy, and a love from life while in grief; Like “it’s not ok for me to be a happy yet, maybe never; now the pain is still their but she uses rituals to honor and remember the happy joyful time with her loved ones she lost

Connections

Katty Douraghy dot com

The Butterfly Years Journal and Book (with discount code Vroom15)

Artisan Creative

283 Ken Kladouris
Ken Kladouris – Stillness to Success

Ken Kladouris – Stillness to Success

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 47:05 — 64.8MB)

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Ken Kladouris is an esteemed wealth advisor, author of Get There!: Chart Your Course to Financial Abundance and Live the Life You Desire, and creator of Stillness to Success, a new online course that provides a valuable resource for individuals who are ready to create real change intheir lives.

Those who participate in the course can expect to complete it feeling more empowered and better equipped to navigate their personal and professional day to day decision making. Outside of the office, Ken’s love of the ocean led him to pursue sailing. It is there that he also found his passion to give back to the community. In his spare time he can be found with friends and loved ones aboard a powerboat, sail boat or at community events.

Ken Kladouris Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in SoCal about 45 minutes from the ocean so not a surfer kid; spent time on a boat on lakes

In High School he did what he needed to do to get by for grades; spent a lot time on a power boat with his uncle; when is uncle wanted to sell his boat he worked out a deal with him to buy it over time

Studied finance in college while working full time in the hospitality industry which allowed him to work flexible hours; he either slept at work or in class whichever worked out best

First job after college was working in the back office of a brokerage house doing the grunt work of compliance; had to figure stuff out for the boss; not at all like the Wolf of Wall Street

Had a big veer on a beach in the Cayman Islands; had a down day with nothing do to but look at the waves; had a ego-dissolution moment what Ken describes as an epiphany

Spent years seeking how to get back to that epiphany feeling; dove in and read all the spiritual books; started his meditation practice; even became a Chopra Certified Meditation Instructor

Recent trip to Utah he signed up for what was advertised as a “hike” but the guide immediately told him that he was going rock climbing; he did it anyway and was happy that he did it and didn’t die

Connections

Stillness to Success

282 Christine Ink Whitmarsh
Christine “Ink” Whitmarsh – Inspiring and Creating Authors

Christine “Ink” Whitmarsh – Inspiring and Creating Authors

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:20 — 69.8MB)

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Christine “Ink” Whitmarsh is a memoir expert who helps authors write standout books. She is a bestselling author, most recently of her memoir “The Power of the Curve” – described as “an excellent read for those struggling to find their way.” Christine hosts the daily author podcast “Your Daily Writing Habit.”

Christine “Ink” Whitmarsh Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up is Auburn, MA a small town near Worcester; the kid in the basement writing stories; Dad was a Boston sports writer and mom was a business ownerChristine was the CEO of her high school, she did all the “jobs” of the students, yearbook, school play; all the teachers and staff knew Christine could get this doneGreat stories from the Hollywood years; including the poker face sledgehammer, The Dude in Real Life and Flaming Gypsy Dancers At age 16 diagnosed with scoliosis of Spine, but put off surgery until age 19; the surgeon said she had a 1 in 3 chance of; neck down paralysis, death, or be ok; she did all three in order.Decided to be a nurse instead of writing and studied nursing in college and became a nurse because she needed a job to make money; learned that she like listening to people’s stories more than being taking care of peopleWent to Hollywood to study acting; but mom suggested she put out an add to be a typist to type papers for students; the father of a student saw her ad and called her to help him type “notes”; then she helped him ghostwrite his bookNow, when people ask her to ghost write their memoir; once they start working together people realize that Christine is actually coaching them to write their own memoir.

Connections

Website

Podcast

281 Sonia Frontera
Sonia Frontera – Surviving a Toxic Marriage, Divorce and Learning to Thrive

Sonia Frontera – Surviving a Toxic Marriage, Divorce and Learning to Thrive

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:46 — 73.1MB)

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Sonia Frontera is a divorce lawyer, empowerment trainer and author. The owner of Frontera Law in Lambertville, N.J., she offers forward-thinking legal solutions to help individuals end their marriages amicably and navigate the immigration maze.The author of Relationships Solutions: Effective Strategies to Heal Your Heart and Create the Happiness You Deserve, Sonia offers practical advice and hope to people whose lives have been upended by marital troubles, teaching them how to dissolve their obstacles to happiness and create fulfilling lives.

Sonia Frontera is the survivor of a toxic marriage who has been happily remarried for 14 years. Through the years, she has supported domestic violence survivors as an advocate, speaker and empowerment trainer. She is a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer and offers inspirational workshops and retreats.

Sonia Frontera Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Puerto Rico as a sheltered child; very academic nerd, really got upset with grades less 100%; not really an overachiever

She wanted to be a journalist; unfortunately her father didn’t want to pay for a “soft” degree; the compromise was a business/journalism double major at Syracuse University

Syracuse New York was a big “weather” shock moving from Puerto Rico; Sonia had an amazing college experience; studied hard and played hard; now wishes she would have studied a little less and had more fun

During last semester college, she started dating her 1st husband for 3 years before she got married; on the plane going to the honeymoon he told her “this is how it’s going to be now” that they were married; this began years of psychological abuse

She was in an abusive marriage and a job she hated; decided to go to law school which turned out a positive and empowering environment

While traveling in a foreign country, her husband started berating her in public, but this time, Sonia made the decision to divorce him; after that, the rest was just details

After the divorce, she didn’t date anyone for four years; she took up hiking and joined a community of women who liked to hike and travel

Met her current husband online while she was looking for a travel companion; after dating for seven years she realized that he was a keeper

Sonia can’t wait to start hosting live workshops to help people with relationships, and how to end their marriages amicably, as well as recover from divorce and abuse

Connections

Website

280 Dennis Mellen
Dennis Mellen – How to Change Challenges into Opportunities

Dennis Mellen – How to Change Challenges into Opportunities

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:42 — 76.8MB)

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Dennis Mellen: After an exciting Air Force, airline career, Dennis suffered a career-ending heart attack while mountain biking in 2008. His book Takes More Than Heart provides motivation, education, and humor to inspire others as he describes his journey of finding new purpose in his journey towards discovering life “part 2”.

Dennis Mellen Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Dad was a Chief Master Sergeant in the Air Force; went to 14 different schools including 4 different high schools

Knew from a very young age that he wanted to fly for the Air Force; he watched F4 Phantoms launch from the end of a runway

Accepted after on his 2nd application to the Air Force Academy; Jeff worked with a Colonel that got in on his 4th try

Passed pilot training in Arizona and flew in Active Duty for 7 years; transitioned to the Air Force reserve and flew for Alaskan Airlines and the same time

Retired from the Reserves and flew for Alaskan Airlines; worked his way into a leadership position responsible for training all the pilots and instructions on one of two aircraft

Rode a Mountain bike trail listed as “Difficulty: It’s a bitch”; as he was climbing a hill on his bike he noticed one arm going numb; then he went unconscious; miracle number one: hikers found him and called 911; turns out Dennis had a heart condition known as a “widow maker”

Shocked when the doctor told him his flying days were over; he didn’t’ know who he was if he wasn’t a pilot; later found non-flying jobs in aviation

Someone asked him to speak; he said “what about?”; she replied how about leadership and working through adversity; the clouds parted and Dennis said: “Yeah, I can probably talk about that”

Wrote the book because he had the time and not many places to go during lock down; it was a catharsis to relive the heart attack and release some of those stuck emotions.

Connections

Website

279 Mike Iamele
Mike Iamele – No Experience is Wasted

Mike Iamele – No Experience is Wasted

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:31 — 73.7MB)

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Mike Iamele has helped hundreds of people, for nearly a decade, to map their experiences and figure out what they subconsciously do every time they’re successful –– through a process called Sacred Branding.In 2014, Mike accidentally came out to millions when he wrote an article about falling in love with a man after identifying as straight––and 100,000 people shared it overnight.He’s also the author of Enough Already: Create Success on Your Own Terms (Conari Press 2015). Mike’s shared his provocative and vulnerable take on life in hundreds of magazines and podcasts, including NPR, CBS, and Huffington Post.

Mike Iamele Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a small town near Boston; in High School Mike hung around with a diverse group of kids; never really got into the popularity contests; had 2 cafeterias 1) for cool kids 2) for losers!

Looked at the Boston University campus and there was only concrete; no trees; the “Soap in the Fountain” prank that his dad pulled as tradition sold Mike on Northeastern

His college has a CO-OP program that got him jobs while in school; in these jobs Mike was working with high profile people who thought he was smart

Managed to go to school in Italy for 2 summers and had this housing paid for through the school; learned Italian and fell in love with Italy

2nd Summer in Italy Mike wrote the script for a documentary that was shot in Rome; got paid to live and work in Rome all summer

Took his boyfriend to Italy to propose and everything went wrong; it rained, the metro was closed, they didn’t get into the Vatican; Mike had to pee and the very nearly missed their train and almost lost $1000 on the planned proposal train ride

Almost burned down a garage because no one could figure out how to roll a blunt even with a YouTube video; tried to smoke the weed on a plate like incense; didn’t even really get high!

Connections

Website

278 Dave Jackson
Dave Jackson – School of Podcasting

Dave Jackson – School of Podcasting

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:17 — 84.5MB)

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Dave Jackson started podcasting in April of 2005. His podcast about podcasting has been downloaded over 1.6 million times (as of 2017). He helped hundreds of people launch podcasts.“The School of Podcasting” Is a podcast that helps you discover the power of podcasting. It helps you avoid the common mistakes that podcasters make. From planning, producing, and promoting your podcast along with all the tools and techniques. If you’re looking to start a podcast or a veteran podcaster, you can catch some great insights with this free podcast.Unlike many other “geeks” who know how to podcast, I’ve been a technical trainer for over 20 years. This means I not only do I understand the technology but I can explain it in a plain English “geek-speak free” environment. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Akron (Specializing in technical education). While there are other podcast consultants, I believe my experience sets me apart in regards to helping you make sense of the entire podcasting process. I not only help with the “how,” but I also help explain the why, and make sure you avoid the common podcasting pitfalls. I have won awards at fortune 500 companies for my customer service.

Dave Jackson Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio; didn’t perfectly fit into any group in high school; played heavy metal guitar so the burnouts loved him, but he didn’t do drugs; He was a nerd; but not as smart as most nerds

Got fired from a job as a grocery store bagger because he was do shy to talk to customers; a teacher told him to pretend to be an outgoing person and that worked

Went to college and studied Electrical Engineering; worked on copiers for about a year and a half; then they created a new job of teaching customer how to use the copiers

That teaching job lead into teaching Microsoft Office and other programs as a software trainer; eventually he went back to get a teaching degree in his early 40’s

In 2005 podcasting was invented; Dave created a podcast because he didn’t want to miss the “myspace” wave again; he knew he was on the right path when he got a voicemail from Germany

Podcasting can make you some money; but it’s not going to make you money quickly; don’t quit your day job right away

Dave can teach you how to plan, launch and grow your podcast and avoid many of the pitfalls that I tripped up on; how to get the name of your show right

Connections

Website

277 Dustin Heiner
Dustin Heiner – Master Passive Income

Dustin Heiner – Master Passive Income

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:13 — 70.2MB)

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Dustin Heiner, the founder of Master Passive Income and Successfully Unemployed. He is a real estate rental property investor who was able to make enough passive income from his business to quit his job when he was 37 years old.With his podcast, books, courses, and coaching, he now helps other people quit their job by investing in real estate rental properties to live the dream life.

Dustin Heiner Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in Fresno California both his biological dad and his step dad were entrepreneurs; Dustin had a paper route as a kid

Worked for the County Government as and IT guy; one day at around 3:30 pm near the end of the day he was called by the boss’ s secretary to report to the boss’s office

That walk the see the boss was one of the longest walks of his life; 1st he thought ” no way will I get laid-off!, I’m an awesome employee; but as he kept walking the looming dread increased

He just finished paternity leave so he had a newborn and 3 other kids at home; if I get laid-off does that mean that I’m a failure as a father?

He did get laid off–then he knew 2 things 1) I need another job (which he got in the same county) 2) I can’t allow myself to be laid off again; that’s when he committed to mastering passive income

Read Rich Dad Poor Dad; bought a property without building a business first; that ‘s the wrong way to do that; you have to build the business first and then add inventory (properties) to the business

Being Frugal and being stingy and not the same thing; frugal means spending money wisely; stingy thinking means you don’t have enough money yet

Connections

Master Passive Income Free Course

Text “rental” (without the quotes) to 33777 to get a free course

276 Zac Juergensen
Zac Juergensen – DIY Wealth: Live without Fear of Money

Zac Juergensen – DIY Wealth: Live without Fear of Money

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:27 — 78.5MB)

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Zac Juergensen says: “I’ve essentially went from being in debt in my early 20’s with poor money management and financial behavior patterns to amassing a net worth of $1MM by 31. I have enough passive income to essentially “retire”, or as I prefer to label it unplugging. I am committed to sharing my knowledge base, answering questions, and merging it with a better line of thinking in order for individuals to plug into a more enhanced way of living.”

Zac Juergensen Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

His dad believed that tomorrow is not guaranteed, so spent like the wind; mom wanted to save every penny and didn’t want any risk

Saw a fellow marine die on a deployment; decided that he need to get out of the military and start thinking about a new way to live

Stared reading all kinds of books; one was about dividend investing; bought 10 shares in a bank stock and made about 4 dollars in a day; changed that way he thought about money

Once you hit your money number you realize that life is not about having a weekend everyday; that gets boring very quickly; you need to help people and stay engaged even when you don’t need more money

Had some success in real estate and thought he could run any kind of business; he spent $17 on a dog box subscription website; then realized he knew nothing about running a website or a dog box business; lost most of that $17k

Now that he has hit his number he can take his time and monetize his podcast with subscribers to make money while keeping most of his time

Key lesson is learning how much money is enough for you; that number is different for everyone; once you have that amount in a diversified investment portfolio you will be able to live off that money for the rest of your life

Zac Juergensen Connections

Website

Zac’s Patreon Page

Instagram

275 Zander Sprague
Zander Sprague – How to Plan, Achieve and Enjoy your Journey

Zander Sprague – How to Plan, Achieve and Enjoy your Journey

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:02:36 — 81.7MB)

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Zander Sprague is an internationally acclaimed public speaker, author, and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). His mission is to help millions of people make the EPIC choices that create an EPIC life.

Drawing on his decades of work experience with companies of all sizes, Zander guides teams to achieve EPIC results. He is a member of the National Speakers Association and author of 3 books.

As a professional speaker for over two decades, Zander has enthralled audiences with his presentations. His deft ability to talk about EPIC Choices leading to EPIC Lives as well as sibling loss and finding the lighter side also has made him sought after by many diverse organizations and groups.

Zander Sprague Vroom Vroom Veer Stories

Grew up in a small town outside of Boston, his father was a state senator and he remembers asking for votes in the city dump

Went to boarding school for high school at an all boys school (his choice); had to walk up hill through 6 feet of snow

Wanted to escape the snow and cold, so went to college in California; worked out a way to take a semester in Australia in history; got to visit New Zealand as well

Worked in corporate and start-ups for 20 years as a technical trainer; worked at Intel helping programmers learn how to do parallel programing to take advantage of multi-core processors

Sister was murdered when she was going to law school; the “suspect” hung himself during pre-trial confinement; his dad was a judge at the time; the media circus would have been much worse had it gone to trial

Zander’s most surprising emotion during grief was that his family and friends wanted to only remember the “good” parts of his sister; he remembered her as a whole human warts and all; the felt guilty for wanting to remember the good and the bad

After 20 years in corporate, went back to school to get a Master’s Degree; just as he finished his intern hours; lock down changed his plans

Connections

Website