The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis: Recent Episodes
April Adams Pertuis
The INSIDE STORY takes you behind the curtain to bring you some of the biggest success stories of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and change makers.... the men & women who have walked through fire and come out on the other side brighter. How did they get there? What were some of their biggest hurdles? Be ready to hear it all. We’ll also be discussing the power of Story along the way, and how you can harness the power of your own journey to propel forward into new heights and fulfillment. Host April Pertuis will take you on a Storytelling journey through her own stories, too! As a career-long journalist and storyteller, April understands the story that is hiding inside of you. You’ll discover unique storytelling tips and mechanics that will empower you to tell you story in a whole new way. This is the Podcast that tells the Inside Story of people & brands who are sharing their story in important and powerful ways. They aren’t mechanical or scripted. They are unabashedly authentic and real. And they are generating massive success & fulfillment as a result! As you’ll discover, this is what makes a “Lightbeamer” The goal of the Inside Story is to inspire you to think about your own story, and learn to share it so it can shine a light for others.
Copywriting is such an important aspect of the business world. It takes concepts and products and weaves them into captivating stories. And what makes it truly remarkable is its power to not only grab attention but also forge a meaningful connection between brand and audience. In today's busy marketplace, mastering the art of copywriting can be the game-changer that sets you and your business apart. Enter Marisa Corcoran, CEO and founder of the Copy Confidence Society. In addition to writing the words that get landing pages converting at 60% (or higher!) and crafting personality-filled emails, Marisa helps coaches and creatives craft their uncopyable message.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Public speaking – the mere mention of these words can send shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned professionals. The fear of stumbling over words, losing track of thoughts, or failing to engage the audience can be paralyzing. However, with the right tools and techniques, anyone can transform themselves into a confident and captivating speaker, able to own the stage and leave a lasting impact on their audience. Today on the show, I dive into the art of confident public speaking. With these simple tips, you can connect, engage, and build a stronger community through the power of storytelling on stage.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you've ever found yourself curious about the ins and outs of launching and nurturing a creative project, then get ready for a captivating glimpse into exactly that. Join me on today's episode as I unveil a true labor of love – none other than this very podcast. It's a testament to the remarkable power of persistence, resilience, and the profound impact that comes with embracing and sharing our unique stories. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on vulnerability, commitment, and all that’s involved in impactful storytelling. Plus, I open up about how the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals and bring their stories to life is truly a gift. If you're as intrigued as I was when I started this adventure, you're in for an experience that might just inspire you to start your own podcast journey.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Sign up for Podcast Week at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcastweek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As we approach the third-year mark since we embarked on this podcasting adventure, I am so thrilled to share in the excitement of our upcoming podcast anniversary celebration!! It's been an incredible journey of empowerment, growth, and inspiration, and I couldn't have done it without your support. In honor of this milestone, I have something truly special in store for you - Podcast Week! If you're looking to boost your business visibility, this is your golden opportunity. Join us for a week filled with insights, strategies, and connections to take your podcasting journey and business to new heights. Today on the show, I’m excited to feature clips from interviews with experts who will be part of Podcast Week, giving you a taste of the invaluable knowledge they'll be sharing.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Sign up for Podcast Week at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcastweek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Planning and leading in-person events can be an exhilarating yet challenging experience that requires a diverse skill set and a knack for problem-solving. The process involves careful planning, from the initial concept and organization to the actual execution. The lead-up to the event can be a whirlwind of emotions, from the excitement of seeing your vision come to life to the stress of last-minute changes and unexpected issues that require quick decisions. In today's episode, I'm sharing some key takeaways from my recent experiences on the road. As we navigate a world that's both connected and isolating, I hope these insights provide you with a fresh perspective on finding community and growth.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Do you sometimes feel like even when you show up and you’re being authentic when you share your story, no one is listening? Today on the Inside Story podcast, I open up about my own struggles with doubts, whether it's sending emails, creating social media content, or producing this very podcast. I'm sure we've all been there, right? But hold on! Here comes the powerful part. I share with you a heartwarming experience that has become a beautiful reminder for me – which I hope encourages you, too – that even when it feels like no one's paying attention, there are people who are out there just waiting for the right moment to let you know that you’ve made an impact on them.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Have you ever yearned to share your extraordinary story with the world, perhaps through the captivating pages of a book? The thought of becoming an author can be exhilarating, but it's common to feel lost, not knowing where to begin. Doubts and fears may cloud your path, making you hesitate to dig deep and reveal the vulnerable aspects of your journey. But fear not, for in today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, we dive into the art of storytelling and gain valuable insights from the remarkable Dr. Cindy Childress. Her wisdom and encouragement will gently nudge you to take that leap of faith, inspiring you to embrace your fears and share your truth.
Interview links Work with Dr. Cindy https://cindychildress.com/ Connect with Dr. Cindy on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindychildressphd/ Get all the links and resources at www https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast
Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, we often find ourselves caught in a relentless cycle of trying to do it all, tirelessly juggling multiple responsibilities without pausing to recharge or find balance. However, this constant hustle can take a toll on our well-being, leading to burnout. Marianne Smith, well-known in the online coaching space as The Entrepreneur’s Therapist, helps high performers create sustainable peace in their relationships, businesses, and lives. She specializes in working with the unique challenges that leaders and entrepreneurs face mentally, relationally, and in business and has created six-figure businesses of her own in the spaces of both coaching and therapy.
Interview links Work with Marianne http://mldcoaching.co/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mariannelindausmith
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What does it mean to be truly rich? A lot of us would probably define wealth based on possessions and other external factors, but is that all there is to it? Will all the riches in the world make you happy, so to speak? Today on the show, we’re talking to Intuitive Mindset and Business Coach, Johanna Gardner. For Johanna, true wealth lies within, something that can never be taken away. But it took a lot of difficult and heartbreaking experiences before she got to this understanding, and she has spent the last decade focused on understanding internal richness.
Episode links Work with Johanna https://johannagardner.com/ Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Embracing the idea that your story can genuinely help others learn and grow is a powerful motivation to share it with the world. Like I always say, when you share your story, you shine a light. Because, really, your story has the power to inspire, encourage, and offer solace to those who may be going through similar circumstances. And yet, so many stop themselves from sharing their story, thinking they will appear so full of themselves. But choosing not to share your story simply because you believe it's about you would be a disservice to both yourself and others, and I’m here to talk about that today.
Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Forging genuine relationships and connections is important for success, and this is true even in business. Having connections is more than simply exchanging business cards or engaging in superficial conversations. Building real relationships goes beyond transactional exchanges; it involves understanding others, actively listening, and showing authenticity. Today’s guest, Ben Albert, is an online marketer turned business owner who realized the power of real connections when he started his own business. He now hosts a network of five podcasts called Real Business Connections and runs a massively successful marketing firm, Balbert Marketing.
Get all the links and resources at https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Connect with Ben on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/ Check out Ben’s podcast https://realbusinessconnections.com/
Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When we talk about self-promotion, we talk about the ability to engage in meaningful conversations about ourselves with others, enabling us to build connections and establish genuine relationships. By developing this skill, we create an environment where people feel comfortable opening up and sharing their own stories with us. It may not be easy, but self-promotion is something we need to practice to gain confidence and increase our self-worth. Adera Angelucci, who was previously a guest host on this show (check out episode 139 where she takes over The Inside Story Podcast!!), is back again and talks about self-promotion and becoming comfortable sharing yourself with the world.
Interview links Connect with Adera https://www.aderaangelucci.com/ Check out her book, Free Spirit https://www.aderaangelucci.com/free-spirit.html Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon characterized by persistent self-doubt, and it’s a common experience that affects individuals from all walks of life. But it particularly manifests itself among women who aspire to make a difference in the world. Women who are driven to create positive change often find themselves grappling with imposter syndrome, which can hinder their progress and hold them back from reaching their full potential. Today on the show, we tackle this issue with growth strategist and holistic therapist Lexi Soulios and discuss how much imposter syndrome affects us, and what we should do to push through this thinking and succeed.
Work with Lexi Check out Lexi’s 3-part Conversation with Women Leaders called Beyond the Masks Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Women's health encompasses a broad spectrum of physical, mental, and social well-being, and along with it also comes the issue of chronic pain. This is a complex condition that can significantly impact an individual's daily life, both physically and emotionally, and I know because I’ve been dealing with it since childhood. My friend and today’s guest Carissa Floyd has been through the same, dealing with illnesses such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and endometriosis. But she found a way to understand her pain, manage her conditions, and improve her quality of life, and now guides her clients in their journey toward mind, body, spirit connection through Pilates.
Check out Pilates Haus https://www.wearepilateshaus.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearepilateshaus/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you’re a small business owner or a solopreneur, there are so many challenges you need to face when it comes to marketing. Some of these are your budget, the kind of marketing strategy to implement, the time constraints, and even the type of agency or person you need to get on board to help you with what you need. All of this can become so … overwhelming. Enter Dan Russell. Dan is the author of the book Snake Oil: Genuine Marketing in an Age of Cure-Alls, and he takes us back to the basics of marketing and helps us focus on the more important areas.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After more than two years and more than a hundred episodes of The Inside Story Podcast, I’ve gotten firmer in my belief that everyone has a story and that storytelling is an important piece of the human experience. And since we started the podcast, I’ve talked to and interviewed inspiring people who openly shared their stories with us, and I’ve also thrown in a few stories of my own, plus some tips and tricks on how to get you started on your own storytelling journey.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When I meet people who blow me away with their stories and the way they use them to shine a light for others, I’m compelled to share them with everyone in my community because we can learn so much from them. Such is the case with Brian Bogert. Brian is a professional coach, motivational speaker, business strategist, and leader. His mission is to help individuals achieve the best version of themselves by becoming more aware and more intentional – and therefore, more authentic. His strategy -- embrace pain to avoid suffering -- has helped people create for themselves a life with no limits.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When I meet people who blow me away with their stories and the way they use them to shine a light for others, I’m compelled to share them with everyone in my community because we can learn so much from them. Such is the case with Brian Bogert. Brian is a professional coach, motivational speaker, business strategist, and leader. His mission is to help individuals achieve the best version of themselves by becoming more aware and more intentional – and therefore, more authentic. His strategy -- embrace pain to avoid suffering -- has helped people create for themselves a life with no limits.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trauma often leaves one overwhelmed, sometimes unable to move forward, and often afraid of facing what caused the undesirable experience. But there’s a way of recovering from it and releasing it in order to become whole again, and that is through the healing power of storytelling. Beth Jones is one of the women authors in the second LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, Step Into Your Brave. She is sharing her story as a trauma survivor, hoping to shine a light for others and help them start their own healing.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trauma often leaves one overwhelmed, sometimes unable to move forward, and often afraid of facing what caused the undesirable experience. But there’s a way of recovering from it and releasing it in order to become whole again, and that is through the healing power of storytelling. Beth Jones is one of the women authors in the second LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, Step Into Your Brave. She is sharing her story as a trauma survivor, hoping to shine a light for others and help them start their own healing.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When someone goes from the hood to the White House and ultimately has multi-million dollar success, you know there’s bound to be more than a few inside stories there that will just blow your mind. Rebecca Contreras went from hitting her lowest of lows to reaching amazing success -- the kind that so many of us also dream of. Her book, titled “Lost Girl”, details this journey and shows the reader the kind of perseverance and faith Rebecca had to get to where she is today.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When someone goes from the hood to the White House and ultimately has multi-million dollar success, you know there’s bound to be more than a few inside stories there that will just blow your mind. Rebecca Contreras went from hitting her lowest of lows to reaching amazing success -- the kind that so many of us also dream of. Her book, titled “Lost Girl”, details this journey and shows the reader the kind of perseverance and faith Rebecca had to get to where she is today.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s such a special week on The Inside Story Podcast!! Our second LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, STEP INTO YOUR BRAVE, was released yesterday on Amazon!! And in a matter of a few hours, we reached #1 status, and it feels amazing to be able to share this journey with all of you. In today’s episode, I’m putting the spotlight on my own experience writing for this book and choosing to write about my father. It’s definitely not something I thought I’d ever share publicly, much less write about in a book. But looking back now, I know that this is exactly what I was meant to do.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s such a special week on The Inside Story Podcast!! Our second LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, STEP INTO YOUR BRAVE, was released yesterday on Amazon!! And in a matter of a few hours, we reached #1 status, and it feels amazing to be able to share this journey with all of you. In today’s episode, I’m putting the spotlight on my own experience writing for this book and choosing to write about my father. It’s definitely not something I thought I’d ever share publicly, much less write about in a book. But looking back now, I know that this is exactly what I was meant to do.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’re less than a week away from the launch of our LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, Step Into Your Brave, and we’re very excited!! The female authors who are part of this book show us different faces of courage with their stories, and it’s amazing to get to know them all. Today on the podcast, I’m bringing into the spotlight Amber Wells. Amber is an international entrepreneur, founding owner of She Companies, Inc. and a self-care journaling subscription box called Big Girl Pantees. Her journey to becoming an author has not been an easy one, which makes the release of Step Into Your Brave all the more meaningful.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’re less than a week away from the launch of our LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, Step Into Your Brave, and we’re very excited!! The female authors who are part of this book show us different faces of courage with their stories, and it’s amazing to get to know them all. Today on the podcast, I’m bringing into the spotlight Amber Wells. Amber is an international entrepreneur, founding owner of She Companies, Inc. and a self-care journaling subscription box called Big Girl Pantees. Her journey to becoming an author has not been an easy one, which makes the release of Step Into Your Brave all the more meaningful.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode is the second in a series of interviews with the women of the LIGHTbeamers Author Program -- a special book project that’s going to shine a light on eight women and their empowering stories of courage, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. Karen Smith spent 20 years in corporate America before she found her real calling – being an entrepreneur, coach, and energy healer. The road to where she is now was not an easy one, and she recounts how she’s had to unlearn what she had always believed and find the truth about herself.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode is the second in a series of interviews with the women of the LIGHTbeamers Author Program -- a special book project that’s going to shine a light on eight women and their empowering stories of courage, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. Karen Smith spent 20 years in corporate America before she found her real calling – being an entrepreneur, coach, and energy healer. The road to where she is now was not an easy one, and she recounts how she’s had to unlearn what she had always believed and find the truth about herself.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A few months back, I dedicated several podcast episodes to the authors of the first collaborative book in the LIGHTbeamers series. This time, I’m featuring authors from the second book, Step Into Your Brave, which I’m very happy to announce will be coming out later this month. One of these authors is Kim Mittelstadt – an image consultant and life coach for moms, teen girls, and young adults. She’s dedicated to helping them discover their identity and style blueprint that complements their personality and lifestyle, and teaching them to love the person in the mirror. Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A few months back, I dedicated several podcast episodes to the authors of the first collaborative book in the LIGHTbeamers series. This time, I’m featuring authors from the second book, Step Into Your Brave, which I’m very happy to announce will be coming out later this month. One of these authors is Kim Mittelstadt – an image consultant and life coach for moms, teen girls, and young adults. She’s dedicated to helping them discover their identity and style blueprint that complements their personality and lifestyle, and teaching them to love the person in the mirror. Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 4th Annual Storytelling Symposium by LIGHTbeamers has just ended, and I’m still on a high from meeting new people, forging new relationships and deepening old ones, sharing new stories, and just soaking up all the inspiration from everyone I connected with!
And as I look back now and reflect on the amazing two days of the Symposium, I’m reminded of something that came to me more than a year ago – after I attended a mastermind event and hosted last year’s virtual Storytelling Symposium. That is, you have to put yourself in the room. Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A few episodes back, my husband Kyle was on the show and we talked about marriage and being entrepreneurs. That episode was a big hit, and a lot of you sent me messages to let me know how much that conversation resonated with you. On today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m bringing you another couple who are entrepreneurs and in business together. Jake and Ashley Ulkus are the founders of Destined to Scale, where they help online coaches and service-based professionals in engineering their signature offers to build a successful company without compromising client outcomes or lifestyle.
Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There’s so much value in storytelling – both to the one sharing their story and the person hearing it. But time and again, people tell me they don’t always know what to share. They get stuck and become unsure of how to dig out their stories. If you find yourself in the same predicament, you’re in for a real treat! On today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, you’re going to get prompts that will help you find those stories inside of you and make storytelling a little easier. Get all the links and resources at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
More than 1 million women go through menopause every year in the United States alone. And while it’s a stage every woman will go through, it’s not a conversation everyone’s ready to have.
Womaness and its founder, Sally Mueller, are changing the conversation around menopause. Through innovative products that offer solutions from head to toe, trusted advice on symptoms, and support from an inspired community, Womaness is fast becoming the go-to place for every woman looking to gain some menopositivity.
Get all the links and resources we mention at www.lightbeamers.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you hear the word shapeshifting, what comes to mind? Is it the mythical definition of being able to change into a different shape or form at will? Or can the term be applied to something more realistic – and a little closer to home? Today on The Inside Story Podcast, we’re talking about becoming different people in the various relationships we are in, or shape-shifting to become the person others expect us to be. It’s not an uncommon phenomenon, but something we should all be aware of and avoid happening. Tune in to this episode as I share with you:
Why it’s important to acknowledge that we might be in fact, shapeshifting in our relationships
My own experiences of taking the easy route and allowing myself to conform to what society expects of me
The different ways you could be shapeshifting – without you knowing it!
What we should be doing instead, for us to live lighter and shine bright for others
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I've long believed that when women come together and share their stories, magic is bound to happen. And over in Montreal, Canada, one woman has created a lasting space for women where they can have meaningful and strategic interactions. Dayna is a seasoned communications professional and branding consultant with a certification in Women’s Leadership from the Yale School of Management. Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for developing female talent bring an inspiring, innovative approach to problem solving and creative thinking. Join me and Dayna as we discuss:
What frank is and the backstory of how it all started
Her journalism background and how it ties to women’s leadership – and how curiosity plays a role in both
Her vision of having a safe space where women can gather and talk, motivate and encourage each other
The common threads that bind women from different backgrounds and locations together
Being a people connector and the gratifying feeling of match-making the individuals inside the frank community
How you can join the next frank cohort
What Dayna is dreaming up next
So much of Dayna’s work and mission are aligned to what we have over at the LIGHTbeamers, and I feel like Dayna is such a kindred spirit. She and I both believe that when like-minded women empower each other by sharing their stories, their experiences -- only good things will happen. So my challenge for you today is to find your tribe, and encourage and motivate the women in your community to create and live their best lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s our 100th episode and what better way to celebrate this milestone than to have the person who helped me start my podcast two years ago on the show!! Phyllis Nichols is the founder of SoundAdvice Strategies, a podcast production company. She’s best known for helping clients create unique audio experiences for their listeners. A salesperson at heart, she found her way to podcasts on a dare, and she’s more than happy that her previous sales-consulting work turned into amplifying and selling the messages of her clients. Tune in today as Phyllis and I talk about:
How podcasting has changed over the years, especially for women in the industry
How Phyllis and her team can help you if you want to get into podcasting
What SoundAdvice.FM is and Phyllis’ vision of amplifying women’s voices
Creating an impact with your podcast and how SoundAdvice.FM can support you by helping you reach more people
I am so grateful to Phyllis for being there for me when I thought of starting this podcast, and for being here for me still as I do my best to grow and reach more women through stories. And thank YOU for sticking with me and listening to The Inside Story Podcast for 100 episodes - I hope you'll stick around for the next 100! Interview Links: SoundAdvice Strategies https://www.soundadvicestrategies.com/ SoundAdvice.FM Network https://soundadvice.fm/ The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There was a time in my business where I couldn’t keep up with everything that was happening. I felt overwhelmed and frustrated, and I knew I had to do something if I wanted to change the way things were going. Enter Jen Lehner and her Front Row CEO program. When she shared her method with me, I listened and took action, and I can honestly say that that decision really changed everything for me. So today on The Inside Story Podcast, I’m bringing you Jen Lehner, and I’m inviting you to listen in as we talk about growing your business by hiring, and this includes:
How the Front Row CEO program is THE blueprint for hiring your team
The biggest pain points business owners have when they think of outsourcing or getting help for their business
Having the right mindset and understanding that you’re investing in your business
The inside story of why Jen hired her first VA, and what happened immediately after
Why finding the right person -- using the right system!! -- is going to allow your business to grow
What Jen has in store not just for you, the CEO, but also for your VAs (this is so awesome!!)
I love sharing things that worked for me, and I hope you'll find some of the same relief I found by learning how to become a smart, Front Row CEO! Interview Links
Get into Jen Lehner’s Front Row CEO program today >>
Not sure what tasks to give to your VAs? Here’s a list you can start with!
The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’re gearing up for the 4th Annual Storytelling Symposium!! Today on the show, I’m featuring one of the women on our speaker panel and giving you a sneak peek of what you can expect at the event. Dr. Leslie Saulsberry is a keynote speaker, author, and executive coach who helps Visionary Women create, build, and grow their companies, careers, and cultivate expansive lives. She’s going to be taking the stage at this year’s Storytelling Symposium, and I’m truly excited for more women to hear her speak and be inspired by her story. Tune in today as she and I talk about:
Her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer and how this made an impact on the work she does today
The different work environments she went through and how one changed the way she looked at leadership
How a whole woman creates a whole leader, and shapes her own work culture
The pivotal moments in her life that transformed her – including one that left her and her son homeless
Her commitment to making people realize they have options, and they don’t need to compromise themselves as they build the amazing lives they are meant to live
As Dr. Leslie’s story shows us, when you STEP INTO YOUR BRAVE and understand that you have the power to create the life you want, so much good can come out of this intentional action. You only need to believe you can, and you will. The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With so many social media platforms today and an insane number of people trying to get everyone’s attention, how do you actually cut through the noise and get noticed? In today’s episode, I share my thoughts on how you can win the internet. You have to have a certain mindset, understanding, and a regular, intentional practice that’s repeatedly overlooked, but should be at the top of your strategy if you want to stand out. Listen in as I discuss:
Why it doesn’t take millions of followers to win the internet and build your business
What to do when nobody reacts or comments on your social media posts – and why giving up is not the answer
Understanding the two-way street that is the internet – and what you should start doing today
Practical tips on how you should be using your time on the internet
Why storytelling is a key factor in all of this (surprise!!)
We often overthink our social media strategies and forget the basics. Realizing that it’s not just about the amount of content we put out, but that we have work to do after posting anything is going to move us in the right direction. My challenge to you today: start using your time on the internet wisely. The day you become more intentional in engaging with your audience – rather than simply posting – is the day you begin winning. The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With so many social media platforms today and an insane number of people trying to get everyone’s attention, how do you actually cut through the noise and get noticed? In today’s episode, I share my thoughts on how you can win the internet. You have to have a certain mindset, understanding, and a regular, intentional practice that’s repeatedly overlooked, but should be at the top of your strategy if you want to stand out. Listen in as I discuss:
Why it doesn’t take millions of followers to win the internet and build your business
What to do when nobody reacts or comments on your social media posts – and why giving up is not the answer
Understanding the two-way street that is the internet – and what you should start doing today
Practical tips on how you should be using your time on the internet
Why storytelling is a key factor in all of this (surprise!!)
We often overthink our social media strategies and forget the basics. Realizing that it’s not just about the amount of content we put out, but that we have work to do after posting anything is going to move us in the right direction. My challenge to you today: start using your time on the internet wisely. The day you become more intentional in engaging with your audience – rather than simply posting – is the day you begin winning. The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the work that I do, I help women dig out their story and amplify their visibility as they share it. But far too often, I find that women stay small and limit the stories they share because they’re afraid of being judged as having too much to say. As a recruiter matching people and jobs, Jenny Ward found the same to be true. And wanting to do more for women seeking to grow professionally, she intentionally became a career coach to help “purpose-driven women finally get the career they want and the money they deserve”. Jenny shared so many meaningful insights, and I invite you to join us as we talk about:
Shifting from being a corporate recruiter to becoming a career and transition coach helping women tell their professional stories
Battling imposter syndrome as she worked to advocate for her own coaching practice, and breaking free from her own limiting beliefs
Confidence gap and how women suffer not from lack of confidence, but because they think they need to keep quiet, stay small, and remain humble
Her TEDx experience and the moment she froze on stage
What inspires her to keep showing up every day and what keeps her up at night
It’s true what they say: Empowered women empower women. By overcoming thoughts and beliefs that weren’t serving her, Jenny now works and is committed to seeing more women finally get the job – and PAY – that they want and deserve. It’s this kind of empowerment we all need to subscribe to, both for ourselves and the women around us.
The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When we have strong relationships, we can go through life's joys with so much more meaning and navigate challenges with hopefully more ease. So how do we activate relationships and forge strong bonds? Our guest on today’s show is one of my clients. David Watson is part of the ThinqShift team – a group of people whose goal is to “craft fabulous leaders to succeed and reinvent the world”. He is known in the group as the Relationship Activator and Optimist, a role he takes seriously and tries to embody even outside of work. I invite you to listen in as David and I talk about:
His background and his shift to a completely different kind of work while still delivering leadership services
How he got the title “Relationship Activator” and what it means to be one – plus how it all ties to being part of a small family but having a large group of friends
His tips for becoming better at building and deepening relationships, and the benefits of cultivating these connections
The project he’s currently working on about lessons learned
Being intentional about optimism and how it serves him on hard days
Brene Brown’s influence and impact, and the two key things he’s learned from her
It’s never too late to start new relationships and to work on those you already have. They’re a vital part of life, and as David has shared with us, you stand to gain so much from it. I’ll leave you with this challenge: go out of your way today to connect with someone. They may be a new acquaintance you’d like to get to know better, or a dear friend you haven’t touched based with in a while. Activate your relationships and live your life more fully. Interview Links Connect with David on LinkedIn Visit ThinqShift’s website
The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Being an entrepreneur is not easy. But what about being an entrepreneur who’s also married to one – does it make things extra challenging? Today’s episode is extra special because I’m joined by my husband, Kyle Pertuis. We’re talking all things marriage and entrepreneurship, and what happens behind the scenes as we make both aspects of our lives not only work, but thrive. Join me and Kyle as we share with you:
Kyle’s entrepreneurial journey and how his coaching business came about
How COVID changed our dynamic at home and in our businesses, and what I think helped us most when we found ourselves working side by side at home!
The best – as well as the hardest -- parts of being entrepreneurs and the greatest motivator & driver for us to continue doing what we do
Family life and how we try and exhibit our core values at home
Kyle’s advice for other entrepreneurs – it’s an acronym, and you know how much I love those!!
What we’ve learned from each other over the years, and
The things we’re looking forward to in the next six months, in our personal lives and for our businesses
There are no secrets to making a marriage work while balancing the demands of being entrepreneurs. It takes commitment, having shared values, and so much more, but it IS possible. I’m grateful that Kyle and I get to do what we love to do, and also be in a relationship where there’s abundant support for each other. It’s the best thing in the world, and I want it no other way. The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve tuned in to the news these past few days, then you’ll know how everyone’s divided and has their own opinion on the outcome of the Roe v. Wade case.
No, I am not going to make a commentary on or political analysis of what happened. Rather, in light of what transpired, I’m going to place emphasis on the value of listening to truly appreciate all sides of the stories we hear. I’m going to zero in on why women should let their voices be heard, even in the face of uncertainty and fear.
In this episode, I talk about:
How the recent conversations and events surrounding Roe v. Wade made me realize anew the importance of sharing our stories
Using our stories in a way that bridges the gap between individuals, and doesn’t cause further division among people
The courage it takes and the action needed for you to STEP INTO YOUR BRAVE – which is the theme of the second LIGHTbeamers collaborative book and our upcoming Storytelling Symposium
What I wrote six years ago that means as much today as it did when I first wrote it
The love and gratitude I feel for the work I am able to do, and for all of you who have been part of my journey so far
Our stories are not only important; they are powerful. And the challenge for all of us is to not only share them, but to use them in creating a world that celebrates individuality, kindness, and empowerment. Let our stories inspire hope, bring love, and shine a light where there’s none.
Are you with me? Let’s go. The Storytelling Symposium is going live and in-person again this year! Be inspired in the company of women who are stepping into their brave and sharing their stories. Join us in San Antonio, Texas on September 25-26, and get ready for your life to be transformed. To know more, click here: www.lightbeamers.com/symposium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What is feminism? The definition of the word has become muddled over the years, and I believe there will always be a debate on what it really means. But one thing’s for sure: feminism remains a relevant part of society today, as it was when the ideology started many years ago. So today, I’m bringing back an episode from the early days of The Inside Story Podcast. In it, I talk about feminism and what it means to me, and how elevating women’s voices can bring about the positive change we want to see in this world. Join me today as I share with you:
Why I decided to revive this episode on feminism
How I viewed the concept of feminism before, and what I think about it now especially in light of the work I do with the women inside my community
What all of us must do to keep moving forward in our quest to have not just equality, but a balanced collaboration in society
We may have a long way to go before we achieve what the original feminists wanted to accomplish. But there is always something we can do. We can always choose to take a step towards having a culture that empowers everyone, regardless of gender. I’d love to know your thoughts on this one! Join us over at the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook or send me a DM on Instagram and let’s keep the conversation going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What is it about successful people that sets them apart from the rest of humanity? Is it just plain skill and talent? These help, of course, but I find that it’s their resilience and grit in the face of adversity that distinguishes them from the rest. And Debbie Adams is no exception. She has taken on every obstacle in her way and made them stepping stones to her success. Her story is nothing short of inspiring, and I truly believe that her journey has just begun. So I invite you to listen in as Debbie and I talk about:
Her background growing up in Newfoundland and her mother’s accident that changed her life
Joining the military where she found her second family and the devastating reason why she had to leave that structured environment
Separating from her husband and taking her daughter with her, and enrolling in university in the same year
The feeling of not being hired despite her skills, and how she found out that starting her own business was the way out of poverty
The “crabs in a bucket” mentality and why she’s the crab that got out of the bucket
Fully living her purpose today and being excited for what the future holds for her
When you go through setbacks and difficulties and decide not to give up, that’s inner strength. And it is this strength that will bring out the best in you and push you to new heights. So don’t give up. Let Debbie’s story inspire you to always persevere and move forward as you work your way towards the best life that’s meant for you. Interview Links: Check out Debbie’s website, People Can https://www.peoplecanbiz.com/ Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbieadamspeoplecan/ Follow Debbie on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DebbieAdamsEntrepreneur
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The path to finding the right partner and the “perfect” romantic relationship is never a straight one. There are always bumps along the way, and it can sometimes feel like we won’t ever end up with someone we can truly call our one true love.
Stacey Dewald is the author of Douchebags to Diamonds, a self-help book for women who want to heal their broken hearts, take charge of their love life, and attract the right one. She has had her share of dysfunctional relationships, but in the process of personal development, has found her own Mr. Right. It’s this journey we talk about today, so I invite you to listen in as we uncover:
How it looked when she hit rock bottom, and how her daughter inspired her to make a change in her life
What the book Radical Forgiveness by Colin Tipping moved her to recognize what was happening to her, and what to do about it
How personal healing not only improved her relationship with herself, but with each person she encounters every day
Her reason for writing the book and sharing her story, and the amazing reaction she’s getting from the readers
What life is like with her own true love, Chris
As humans, it’s natural for us to want lasting relationships. But it is often our own fears and personal obstacles that keep us from finding love. Stacey shows us there is hope, but it’s not without some work to be done. Take control of your life today, and discover the best out there that’s still waiting for you. Interview Links: Visit Stacey’s website Grab the book, Douchebags to Diamonds Follow Stacey on Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When was the last time you were completely honest with yourself? I think it’s safe to say that we all tell ourselves little white lies from time to time. They could be about work, our business, our personal lives … these small lies come up too often that they begin to look like the truth sometimes. What we don’t realize is that these untruths are the source of what makes it difficult to live our lives fully and in the best way possible. But there’s a way to change what we’ve gotten used to and what’s become comfortable for us. And it’s called Radical Honesty. Join me today as I share with you:
The concept of Radical Honesty and how it’s the best but uncomfortable way to truly transform your life
The different areas in my life where I had to become radically honest with myself
The three steps to awareness and noticing what’s happening in you and around you
How to use this as a storytelling technique
The truth will always set us free. And becoming honest in everything we do will help us create the life we really want. It’s not going to be easy at first, but it’s going to be worth it. Links: Grab the book, Radical Honesty by Brad Blanton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If there’s one thing I can mention that’s crucial to business growth, it would be outsourcing. But there are so many facets to this process that a lot of entrepreneurs dismiss the idea of outsourcing -- even before they understand how it can actually take a big load off their shoulders and help scale their businesses! So if you’ve been mulling over the idea of outsourcing but have questions on how to go about it, this is the episode for you. Plus, I give you a couple of resources to get you started on your outsourcing journey!
Listen in as I share with you:
How my business looked and the different struggles I had before outsourcing
The mistakes I made when I first hired virtual assistants – and how I figured out what I needed to do to fix them
Why creating a partnership with your team and having clear communication are key pieces in maintaining a good, working environment
How outsourcing got me into my queen bee role that allowed me to make big shifts in my business
The different ways getting support can help you achieve your goals – whether in business or in your personal life
Like I always say: it gets to be easy. And this can happen when you have the right kind of people supporting you and helping you get to where you want to be. Episode Links Learn how you can streamline your business through outsourcing. Join Jen Lehner’s Front Row CEO. Join the Visibility Accelerator for access to masterclasses and resources that can build and grow your business >> https://www.lightbeamers.com/visibility-accelerator Subscribe to my podcast and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Overworking ourselves beyond breaking point will never guarantee success. In fact, it might even become a deterrent to achieving goals by causing burnout – something that is now considered a disease by health experts. So how do we escape this cycle, find our focus again, and re-center?
Ashley Reed has always been a high performer and built a successful career as a Marketing Executive for some well-known brands and companies. But when she found herself exhausted to a point that almost cost her her life, she knew she had to reset internally to find true balance and freedom. Ashley and I had an enlightening conversation, and we invite you to listen in as we talk about:
How she was living a great life – but it wasn’t HER life
What happened when burnout happened, and how she stopped “swimming upstream” and cleared the clutter surrounding her to focus inward
Experiencing unconditional love and acceptance for herself, and how this changed her relationship with others for the better
How story work is a huge part of resetting her life
What it means to truly surrender
The different ways she centers and balances herself when she needs to
We have romanticized burnout so much that it has become difficult to give ourselves the time and space we need to bring our focus back to what really matters most. It takes a lot of inner work, but if we put in the effort, we will find our true self, and begin to live fully and meaningfully. Interview links: Ashley’s website https://ashleyreed.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ashleyreedofficial/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyreedofficial/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Be the designer of your world and not merely the consumer of it.” If you’ve read James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, you’d know that its popularity and success comes from it being a really practical and useful guide on how to form good habits – even small ones – that can give you big results. For those who haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of the book, and see how it can give you the motivation you need to change your life and reach for success. Join me today on The Inside Story Podcast as I share with you:
The habits I’ve created from reading this book
What I did during the course of my 100-day journey to create good habits
How you can start creating atomic habits that can forge a powerful change in your life
If you’ve started creating good habits but can’t seem to make them last more than a few days, this is a book for you to read. And if you’ve read it before, maybe this is a sign for you to read it again. Achieving health goals, financial freedom, and that best life you’ve been aiming for gets to be easy – and they all start with good, atomic habits. If there’s something you’d like to share with me about forming habits, hit me up inside the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, send me a DM on Instagram @lightbeamers , or drop me a message on LinkedIn. I’d be more than happy to have a chat with you!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I see and speak to so many of you who want to up-level your storytelling skills and grow your audience, because you know that this is how you build your business. But the thing is, you have no idea how to go about it and you don’t know where to begin!
Today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast tackles the 5 core areas of Visibility that are key to your development, growth, and exposure as a storyteller & leader. If you want to enhance your storytelling skills, grow your audience, AND build your business, then this episode is for you! So I invite you to join me as I talk about:
The 5 things you can do today to increase your visibility -- and I explain each in detail!
A special invitation to join me for a workshop on Speaking this coming May 5 and 6
Like I always say: your story matters. And I’ve just given you 5 concrete ways to ensure that you’re maximizing your visibility and giving your story the chance to impact those around you. All you need to do is to take that first step -- and to trust the process.
To know more about the 2-day Speakers Workshop happening on May 5 and 6, and to register, click here: https://www.lightbeamers.com/speakerworkshop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you work in an industry that promotes beauty, it can sometimes become difficult to distinguish between looking beautiful and BEING beautiful.
Alyson DeMaso thought she was living the perfect life, until a series of events forced her to look deeper and evaluate what was really happening in and around her. She eventually launched Raising Beauty, where she helps people reclaim their power and joy from their overworked life, through Conscious Living & Leadership. Join me and Alyson today as she and I talk about:
How curiosity led her to rise up the ranks, working the beauty industry
What she believed to be the definition of success at that time and her formula for being successful
The powerful words her daughter said to her, and how it changed her life
How the idea of Raising Beauty came about, and why truly living with joy is an important part of what she advocates
What’s coming up for Alyson and Raising Beauty in the very near future
We get to a point in time where we do so much just to reach a certain level of success, that we forget to truly live our lives. But it only takes somebody’s words, or someone’s story, to remind us that the beauty of life will always come from the joy of living a purpose-driven, empowered life. Interview Links: Visit Raising Beauty https://www.raisingbeauty.com/ Alyson on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alysondemaso/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My firm belief is that we all have an important story to tell, and if you’ve been in our Community long enough, you know I teach people how to share their stories and how to share them effectively. But in last week’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast where I answered questions from members of our Community, someone asked if I can share insights on how I draw stories out of others. I briefly touched on the subject last week, and today, I’m giving you a rundown of some tips and strategies you can use to pull stories from other people. In today’s episode, I cover:
What you need to be and what you need to do to draw stories out of others
The two types of questions you need to ask
How the Story Formula can help you formulate questions that will allow others to share their stories more easily with you
Practice what you learned today on the show and I guarantee it will change the way you communicate with others. This will help improve not just the way you create nurturing relationships in your business, but also build deeper connections in your personal life. Click here to download The Story Formula -- your free guide to discovering the power of your story and how to use it to grow your business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What do you do when you completely miss creating a plan for your podcast episode that’s set to be released in 2 days? Well, you run to your friends -- aka your Community -- and ask them for help!! And that’s exactly what I did! Having no specific topic for this week’s episode, I decided to make it interactive by having friends ask me questions that I would answer on the show. So I turned to the LIGHTbeamers Community, told them what was happening and what I intended to do, and boy oh boy, did I get some fantastic Qs!! So I invite you to join me today as I answer questions ranging from how to handle pressure to what’s the best thing about our family’s recent move … truly a mixed bag of nuts!! Here are the contributors to this week’s episode, and their Qs:
Ashley DeLuca asks: how do you handle the pressure to do all the things? (Timely? I know!!)
Rachel Marie Nelson wants to know: why the color yellow?
Another one from Rachel: how do you draw stories out of others?
Leanne Smith: what was a limiting belief that was smashed during the book launch of Elevate Your Voice?
From Melinda Kunst and also Leanne Smith: what is my go-to way of unwinding and what does being slow and present mean to me?
Becky Burroughs: what was the criteria I used to decide what to stop doing or how did I decide what sort of things to hand off to my team?
Julie: what has been the best thing about your recent move?
This turned out to be such a fun episode to record because I got to talk about and answer YOUR choice of topics and questions. If not for the predicament I found myself in, I may have not had the chance to discuss these things with you! Again, thank you to the wonderful ladies of the LIGHTbeamers Community for helping out this week and if there’s anything else you want to ask me, let’s keep this going inside the group! And if you’re not in there yet, I’m inviting you to join the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook. It’s a safe space for everyone to learn storytelling, share their stories, and connect with other LIGHTbeamers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s an extra special day over here!!
Today is the official launch day of ELEVATE YOUR VOICE -- the first-ever LIGHTbeamers collaborative book! After months of writing and working on promoting the book, this day has finally come. Along the way, I’ve featured some of the women who have written chapters for the book on this podcast, and in today’s episode, it’s my turn. I’m giving you some behind-the-scenes look at MY OWN journey: from initial talks about the project to writing my story … up until the day I held a copy of the book in my hands. So tune in and sit with me as I share with you:
How the project started out when I first talked to our publisher, Lannete Pottle, and its evolution into the book we are launching today
Why it was necessary for me to create a safe space for the women joining the program
The experience of putting my own story on paper -- and reading the first draft I wrote for the book
The whole growth experience, and the challenging but at the same time beautiful process of becoming an author
It has definitely been a long but satisfying nine months, and to be here now, celebrating our launch day is such a crazy, exciting, and wonderful feeling. And I ask you, dear listener and fellow LIGHTbeamer, to please check out Elevate Your Voice on Amazon and read some inspiring stories today. Click here to grab a copy of Elevate Your Voice on Amazon. Through Kiva, 100% of launch day profits will fund micro loans for underserved women who are starting or growing their business.
Want to become an author? Get on our waitlist for the third book in this series, Shine Your Light by clicking here. Connect with me! Join the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, or send me a DM on Instagram … I’d love to hear from you and listen to YOUR story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Community Highlights is a series I do on The Inside Story Podcast to showcase the amazing LIGHTbeamers who shine their light for others. And one of those people is Louisa Garret, who is doing what she can to spread love and sow kindness out in the world. But Louisa would be the first to tell you that being kind didn’t always come easy to her. In fact, 10 years ago, kindness was something she didn’t practice, and sarcasm was her norm. So what changed? Louisa shares her journey with me today, and I invite you to listen in as she and I talk about:
The type of person she was before, always ready to dish out comebacks and clapbacks
How her 15-year old niece became the voice in her head that urged her to re-think actions
Starting her movement #MakeKindLoud with the belief that everyone is a good person at their very core
How the events of 2020 made her dig deeper to find her real purpose in life
Why showing up every single day matters in making an impact on someone
Knowing “what’s in your cup” and what’s going to spill out when life bumps you
I often hear and see this line: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” And I believe this with all my heart. We get to choose how we show up and respond to what life throws at us. So choose love. Treat everyone with kindness. And let’s #MakeKindLoud enough that it echoes beyond our chambers.
Connect with Louisa: Make Kind Loud on Facebook Louisa on LinkedIn
If you want to begin your storytelling journey, head over to the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook! We have prompts to help you excavate and share the stories that are inside of you! And I have a small request … please share this episode with a friend who would find this relevant and leave a review if you haven't done so already! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You always hear me say that storytelling is impactful. If you want to grow your business, build community, and cultivate a great relationship with your audience, storytelling is key. But just how critical is it for you to actually have a storytelling plan of action in place in today’s digital age? What can you do to give yourself the best chance of success when it comes to telling your story? I'm sharing my go-to ways to infuse storytelling into the nooks and crannies of your online presence and business. Tune in today as I discuss:
The characteristics of a good storyteller
What you don’t want to do when it comes to sharing your story
Five ways to become better at storytelling
If you’d like a safe place where you can begin your storytelling journey, head over to the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, and take your cue from our story prompts! You can also send me a DM on Instagram at @lightbeamers if you’d like to know more about storytelling! I'd be more than happy to connect with you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I drink too much?”, and go back and forth between saying yes and no without really understanding why, today is a good day to listen to The Inside Story Podcast. Our guest for this episode is Kari Schwear, Founder of GrayTonic and the Question the Drink movement. She’s a former gray area drinker who struggled with understanding how and why she landed there. She shares her story of finding out what her real problem was, and how she’s now helping others who are stuck in the gray area. There’s so much to gain from my conversation with Kari, so I invite you to listen in as we talk about:
When her journey of questioning the drink began, and how and what she learned about the gray area
Why having awareness and paying close attention can help you begin to have the right mindset about alcohol and your relationship with it
Her reason for starting the business and how she’s empowering
How her programs Question the Drink for 30 and 30 After 30 can help you improve your relationship with alcohol and yourself
Her tool called the S.A.B.E.R. Method, that will help you slay negative thoughts about anything (as a lover of acronyms, I say this is such a good one!)
Whether you’re living in a gray area when it comes to alcohol or something else, it’s important to first become aware and honest about what you’re going through to begin your journey to achieving harmony and balance. And as Kari shows us, telling your story also becomes an important part of not only healing yourself, but shining a light for others who are just beginning to find themselves. Connect with Kari: Gray Tonic website: https://www.graytonic.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karischwear Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gray_tonic/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vulnerability seems like such a big, scary word. But when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable at the right moment, something magical can happen. Deb Cummins Stellato is another one of our authors for Elevate Your Voice, the first ever LIGHTbeamers collaborative book. She considers herself the Princess of Pivots, having gone through so many changes in a span of a few short years. Today, Deb tells us what it means to power through grief with courage, vulnerability, and acceptance. Join me and Deb as we talk about:
How her storytelling has evolved and what the continuum of courage is
The invitation to write a chapter for the LIGHTbeamers collaborative book, and the fears that came with making her story public
Her writing journey and the pain that came with reliving the grief of her mother's death
How sharing her story has helped her heal and move forward
The experience of becoming an author for Elevate Your Voice, and what it felt like to build a community with the other women of the Author Program
The importance of having an abundance mindset and the value of sharing
Today’s conversation with Deb is a reminder that storytelling – when done in an honest and vulnerable way – gives you an opportunity to heal, and opens up ways to connect and build community with those around you. So here’s an invitation for you: share your story. Elevate your voice. And let your courage and inner light shine through. Connect with Deb Website: https://www.thethinkgoodcompany.com/ Facebook Page: Think Good Podcast: Think Courageously with Deb Cummins Stellato Be part of Elevate Your Voice’s launch team! To know more and sign up, click here: www.shegetspublished.com/launch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the line of work I do, I always have women come up to me and tell me that they want to change their lives, and live in alignment with their passion and purpose. And the advice I give to them is to go all in and to focus their energy on what the outcome they want to achieve, because really, it takes 100% of your commitment to see results. Trisha Deming did just that: she persevered and made the decision to only move forward (and not look back!) in the network marketing industry. The result? She’s living her best life today and is doing what she can to help others create the life they want. There’s so much you can take away from our conversation, so listen in as Trisha and I talk about:
How she was living on autopilot and no longer finding fulfillment in her business
Experiencing failure and making the decision to not give in the face of adversity
What has changed for her after finding success in network marketing, especially the self-development that came with not being the same person she was before
What her biggest “WHY” is today that continues to drive her and keep her motivated
What’s on her vision board for 2022
This is an episode you don’t want to miss. If you’re on the fence about a challenge or an opportunity that has come your way, tune in today to be inspired and find the encouragement you need to go at it with all your heart. There is no time like the present to show up and finally decide that the next chapter you write in your story is the one where you finally shine. Connect with Trisha: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trisha.deming/
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So many of us women -- yes, myself included -- have been conditioned to think that we should stay small and quiet, to stay behind the scenes even when we have something valuable to give to our community. One woman is trying to change that by helping other women learn how to “say NO to things that don’t serve you and YES to things that light you on fire.” Pamela Meadows -- one of the 14 women who took up the challenge to elevate their voice and let their story be told -- is on a mission to help women create and live their best lives. Join me and Pamela today, as she and I talk about:
How she owned her expertise and what she did to advocate for herself in the workplace
What she’s doing now to affect change in the company she’s with, including getting everyone to have their own Smile File!
Her reason for joining the LIGHTbeamers Author Program and what it was like for her to go on this journey
Her message to women about confidence, value, and self-worth, and getting clarity on their life goals
Being the leader while also realizing that there’s still a lot to learn about giving equal opportunities in and outside of the workplace
I’ve always advocated for women learning to choose and say YES to themselves. As the title of our book says: Elevate Your Voice! Speak up, let yourself be heard, and take action on the things that will allow you to live your life to the fullest. And like Pamela, begin to create the life you love. Connect with Pamela: Website https://www.pamelameadows.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pamelameadowsoptimist/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today on The Inside Story Podcast, I’m featuring another LIGHTbeamer as part of our Community Highlights -- a series focusing on members of our Community who are working on sharing their story to shine a light for others. Terri Ann Heiman landed in the LIGHTbeamers world more than a year ago, and since that time, I’ve seen her embrace storytelling as a way to reach the audience she serves: those who want to dig deep into their soul, find their spirit, and transform their life. Join me and Terri, as she and I talk about:
Her backstory and what happened as a result of her not paying attention to what was going on around her
The day she heard the words, “You’re going to be okay,” and her vow to follow that voice
The awakening period in her life and her journey to healing
How storytelling has helped her reach more people, allowing them to relate to her better as she does her work of being an intuitive healer and spiritual mentor
What it means to have an empowered spirit, and her inspirational message for all LIGHTbeamers who are looking to share their stories this 2022!
If you’re ready to tell your story and begin empowering your spirit -- allow yourself to open up, and trust that what is true will be the foundation of the beautiful narrative you’re going to share. Own your story and be brave, and let your truth be heard. Links: Connect with Terri - https://terriannheiman.com/#/ If you want to begin your storytelling journey, head over to the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook! We have prompts to help you excavate and share the stories that are inside of you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last week, I talked about creating and building your story bank. Today, we’re going to look into story “composting” and yes, this is something akin to what we do when we want to use or recycle organic matter to enrich and improve the soil and make it fertile. When it comes to stories, composting can also happen, but what exactly does this entail? What do we do in order to let our stories bloom over time? Join me in today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast as I share with you:
How story composting works, and why having a story bank is an important part of it
Why your storytelling journey can take time to progress – and it isn’t because you’re story’s not good enough!
The 4 key things you need to have to make your own story composting a success
Storytelling involves trusting the process and knowing that one of these days, you will share your story in a way that comes naturally and with so much depth. And when that day comes, the world will be ready to hear your story, and I will be here, cheering for you.
Ready to begin your storytelling journey? Here are a couple of ways I can help you: Join my FREE Facebook Community where I share weekly story prompts and video tips to help you get more comfortable sharing your story! Follow me on Instagram @lightbeamers, and tag me on your storytelling posts. Use the hashtag #iamalightbeamer so I can follow along and give you some love! Or send me a DM – I’d love to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve ever wondered how and where content creators get their ideas for what they post on social media, you’re in for a sweet and practical treat! Today on The Inside Story Podcast, I’m sharing with you how I do it – create story-based content on repeat without ever running out of ideas! If you implement my simple exercise, you’ll find stories everywhere, even right under your nose! If you’re ready to listen, grab your headphones and join me as I share:
Why you need to have a story bank – and it’s not just for content creation!
Some tips on how to create your own story bank, including my favorite tool or app for storing all my ideas
A short inside story about a social media post I’m sharing soon
Two quick and simple exercises you can do right now to start creating your story bank
An invitation you don’t want to miss!
I often say, story is all around you. Big stories, tiny ones – they’re all there just waiting for YOU to take notice and remember them. And now that you know how to keep these stories, ready to be pulled out any time you need them, the only thing for you to do is to begin. Create your story bank today and you’ll be surprised at how many ideas and stories you come up with in no time at all.
Need more story prompts? Join me over at the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook for prompts you can use to create content and for storytelling. And if you enjoyed this episode, please don’t forget to give it a review and let’s keep the conversations and stories going! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast is the fourth in a series I’m doing, with the women authors of Elevate Your Voice, the LIGHTbeamers collaborative book project. Becky Burroughs is a leadership coach and education junkie whose focus is on faith-based principles. Her goal is to empower women to live their lives and lead with courage, credibility, and confidence, and to help them discover what makes them unique and embrace that quality in them. Becky is such an inspiration to talk to, so I invite you to listen in as we discuss:
The circumstances surrounding her decision to work with women in ministry and why she got into leadership coaching
Why she says women are still part of the problem when it comes to equality in the workplace and in society in general
The identity crisis she went through after suffering from loss – and what she discovered about herself
The amazing journey she feels lucky to have gone on by joining our Author Program for the book, Elevate Your Voice
Her 2022 plans to further empower women in ministry – this is such a good one!!
As Becky has shown us, using your voice to bring about positive change – especially in the lives of women who need encouragement and empowerment – will always be a rewarding experience. So share your story. Use your voice. You never know whose lives your story will impact in a way they need it most. Connect with Becky: Becky Burroughs Coaching Becky’s Free Guide to Uncovering Your Ideal Leadership Becky on Facebook Becky on Instagram
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How do you use the pain of your past to unlock the highest and truest potential of your future? By sharing your story. George Kalantzis is a Life Coach and author of the Amazon best-seller, Nowhere to Go. In this powerful book about navigating life’s toughest transitions, George helps the reader let go of the past and move into the future with strength, dignity, and optimism. But today on The Inside Story Podcast, he first shares with us how he had to take a deeper look at his own past and accept it, in order to fully live in the present. Join me and George as we talk about:
His backstory and the different transitions he went through in life, that eventually led him to his lowest point
What actions and steps he took to start making positive changes
His poetry journey that started with a journal and voice memos about what was happening to him
What it means to be a real man in the world today, and what he does to keep his thoughts, words, and actions aligned to who he really is
How writing about his pains and wounds and sharing his story has given him the freedom to live out his purpose
Everybody has a story, including you. And I challenge you to dig deep and find it, and share it. And in sharing that story, you not only heal yourself, but also give yourself the freedom to be the person you were always meant to be. Connect with George: The Art of Tough Transitions George on LinkedIn Buy George’s book, Nowhere to Go Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’re ready to step into your best self and live your best life this 2022, then this episode is for YOU. Yes, it’s easy to make goals and envision the kind of person we need to become to achieve them. But more often than not, we find ourselves not knowing where to begin, or getting lost along the way, and eventually just giving up on our goals and visions! Today, I’m here to tell you that there IS a way -- in fact, a process , that will help you get to where you want to be. Join me today as I share with you:
The process of Being, Doing, and Becoming
What questions you need to ask yourself as you work your way towards your goal
Why it’s important to stay on track as you go on your journey -- and what to do when you find yourself going off-course
I'd love for you to give this a try. And I definitely would love to know how this process now changes the way you think, and act. Share your thoughts with me over at the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, or send me a DM on Instagram at @lightbeamers. Let's go on this journey together, as we start becoming our best selves this 2022. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I always say: when you share your story, you shine a light. And that is exactly what our next featured author from the LIGHTbeamers Author Program aims to do. Julia Barton is a postpartum doula and Reiki master at Olive & Bloom. She’s new to the LIGHTbeamers Community, and came by way of the Author Program where she and I, plus 13 other women, are on a journey to discover our stories and share them with the world. And Julia’s story -- while uniquely her own -- will resonate with other women and I believe, will serve as a guiding light for so many. Listen in on my conversation with Julia, as she and I talk about: · The inside story of why she said yes the Author Program · Her reason for wanting to become a postpartum doula AND at the same time, tell her story on postpartum depression · The biggest lesson she wants to share with other women who are heading into pregnancy, going through it, or have already gone through childbirth · Why she went the non-traditional route in dealing with postpartum depression · Her experience in preparing her story for the book, and what she’s looking forward to when the book gets published · The beautiful reasons why she named her business Olive & Bloom We all have stories to tell, and sharing your story matters. Whether it’s to heal your own soul, or let someone know they’re not alone, telling your story is an important practice we should all be doing. Connect with Julia: Olive & Bloom https://www.facebook.com/oandbloom/ Julia’s Array https://www.facebook.com/juliasarray Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kelsey Eigler -- who prefers to be called O’tion -- is the co-founder of The Empowered Healers Academy. It’s their mission to heal the healers, empower the humans, and simplify the journey to happiness. Showing her community how to break free from societal chains, pressures and limitations is one of her main driving forces, proving first hand that you can bend reality and create the life you WANT - regardless of external noise, personal history or archaic paradigms. Join me and Kelsey -- or O’tion -- today, as she and I talk about:
What the Empowered Healers Academy is and the kind of work they do
The Subconscious Imprinting Technique and what it does to physically heal you
How she made sense of a traumatic experience in her life, that led to her healing and creating a new reality for herself
What she’s looking forward to in 2022, both in business and in her personal life
The story behind her preferred name, O’tion
Kelsey shows us how important storytelling is in giving yourself the chance to heal, move forward, and live life to the fullest. So I invite you to dig deep, ask yourself the hard questions, and find out what’s keeping you from becoming truly happy. It is only in discovering your story -- your TRUTH -- and in sharing it with others do you become completely free to be the person you were always meant to be. Connect with Kelsey: Website: https://www.empoweredhealersacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheEmpoweredHealersAcademy Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/from-the-heart-of-a-renegade/id1511853860 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Preparations for the upcoming holiday celebrations are in full swing, and it’s too easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. But just before we usher in the New Year, I’m inviting you to join me as I pause and look back at 2021, and look ahead to 2022 with equal amounts of hope and excitement. The internal exercise I share with you on today’s episode for choosing your word of the year is meant to be an intentional practice. It asks for a deep examination of what happened this past year, and calls for a bold vision of what you want your life to look like in the next 6 to 12 months. So grab your pen and paper and get ready for meaningful reflections as I share with you:
My 5-step exercise for coming up with your word of the year, that has really become a goal-achieving machine for me and can work in the same way for you
How your word can impact not only your goals and the way you see yourself, but more importantly, how you make decisions as the person you already see yourself becoming
What it means to have one word serve as your guide throughout the year, especially for times when you get off-track and need a little push to refocus and get back in the game
How to stay on-course with your goal with the help of acronyms, catchy hashtags and even passwords!
My word of the year from a few years back and how it grew relative to the focus I gave it, and eventually became its own business
How I compare having a word for the year to making a New Year’s resolution
Just how powerful this exercise can be in creating and building something huge in your life
This coming year, my wish is for you to begin seeing yourself as that person you want to become, and shine your light brightly on others. Be inspired. Be empowered. Be unlimited and take action. Let your word of the year for 2022 be your North Star, and let it guide you as you navigate through your best year yet.
Share your WORD with me or take inspiration from other LIGHTbeamers! Join the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, or send me a DM on Instagram at @LIGHTbeamers. I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s a big day for me because today, I turn the big FIVE-OH!!
Yes, it’s my 50th birthday and I’m spending part of my day with you because you’ve been a big part of my journey and what I’m grateful for.
And now that it’s here, what does it actually feel like to be 50? How should I approach aging, and handle all the thrills and frills (and body aches and pains!!) that come with it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode is the second in a series of interviews with the women of the LIGHTbeamers Author Program -- a special book project that’s going to shine a light on 15 women and their empowering stories of courage, perseverance, and overcoming adversity.
Sheryl Morley is the founder of the Fine2Fabulous Movement, owner of the Institute of Wholistic Health, and an expert in the areas of happiness and fun! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I have always been an advocate for women using their voices and skills to make a big impact in the world. But so often, we get caught up in the drudgery that we forget what significant actions we should take to make our businesses, and our personal lives, thrive.
Fabienne Fredrickson is a powerful catalyst for solo business owners who seek to make the greatest impact they can in their work all while creating certainty in their business and financial security in their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Storytelling is a powerful tool. When done with intention and purpose, telling your story can help you heal from past traumas, hurts, and experiences you'd rather forget. It allows you to release the feelings and energy associated with an experience. And it lets you move out of that space of isolation, which we retreat to when we keep our stories to ourselves. But how do you begin this process and journey of healing? Where do you start? How do you even identify what stories you need to tell for you to heal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Wake up and be AMAZING!!”
If you’ve been in my Community long enough, you’ve probably seen or even heard these words more than just a few times in our space. This wonderful line that carries so much positive energy with it always comes from our resident motivator, Trainer Dane Boyle.
Trainer Dane is a life coach & personal trainer who aims to empower Gen Xers to rediscover their purpose and passion. He believes that confidence, self-care, & self-esteem are what we need for us to live our best Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I find it fascinating when I meet women who've turned their weaknesses into strengths, because their transformational stories are ones that inspire, encourage, & impact others in a big way.
Skincare & wellness advocate Stephanie Talia joined the LIGHTbeamers Community to learn storytelling and use it to reach & help more people. Two years later, I’m proud to introduce Stephanie as one of the women who answered my call to step into their brave and share their stories through a collaborative book project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Storytelling has always been an important part of our whole human experience. It’s how we connect with people, build relationships, and make sense of what is happening to us and around us.
But it’s not always easy to tell our story. And we don’t always know how to tell our story in a way that will get our audience to listen and understand what we want to share.
So how do we do it? What kind of storytelling should we be doing for us to engage our audience? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Have you ever wanted to become a speaker? A writer? Where are you on your journey to becoming the speaker or writer you’ve always wanted to be? Have you even taken the first step to fulfilling your dream?
On today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m sharing with you my thoughts and my own inside stories on what it really takes to become a writer and speaker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our guest today on the podcast is one of those people I easily gravitated towards because I knew there were so many stories behind this incredible force of nature.
George Bryant is a marketing guru, one who places relationships above all else. His trademarked slogan is RELATIONSHIPS BEAT ALGORITHMS, and you’ll find him teaching the power of relationship-building in marketing. How he got to this point in his career and how he came about teaching what he does is part of what he shares with us today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.”
If you know of Brené Brown, then you know that her TEDx talk The Power of Vulnerability pushed her into the limelight, because she spoke of what it takes to connect deeply with the people around you and to bring out the best in you: being vulnerable.
But what does vulnerability really mean? What happens when you allow yourself to become vulnerable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What does it mean to go against what’s expected of you? Is it rebelling just to oppose, or is it rebelling to find the real you, your passion in life, and the purpose you were meant to serve?
Jetty Nieuwenhuis is The Rebel Influencer, an advocate for living with integrity to who you really are, embracing your uniqueness, and owning your story on your way to becoming the person you were always meant to be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There’s so much talk about intuition and how it’s invaluable in helping people make the best decisions for themselves. But how and where do we begin using intuition? What does it even look or feel like?
Heather Alice Shea is an Intuitive Life Trainer and Business Development Mentor, and the founder of and CEO of Atmana Academy, the world’s first research supported Intuitive Life Coach Certification and Business Development Company that formally integrates intuition into the coaching process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s officially the one year anniversary of The Inside Story Podcast!!
Today, I am taking the time to thank all of you who have joined me on this journey, and I know we’ll be together for many more episodes to come!
I’m looking back at why I started this a year ago, what the ride has been like, and why I’ll continue doing this for as long as I can.
Join me as I share with you some insights and lessons I learned from doing this podcast for the past 12 months. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you meet and collaborate with someone who identifies herself as the Positivity Lady both in her personal life and in business, you know it’s going to be a great partnership!
Lanette Pottle is a Life and Business Strategist whose vision of empowering women and giving them a way to have their voices heard is so aligned with mine that I couldn’t help but reach out to her … she is such a LIGHTbeamer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you search Google, you’ll find that an influencer is defined as “a person who inspires or guides the actions of others”.
Like most people I know, I have my fair share of influencers I look up to -- those who’ve inspired me and shaped the way I live my life and run my business.
On today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m sharing with you the top 10 women I consider to be my biggest influences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You brought the questions; now I’m giving you the answers!
For today’s episode, I asked LIGHTbeamers Community members to send me their Qs about anything under the sun … and I got asked some really good ones!
Join me today as I share with you a little bit more about me, my views, and my business as I answer the questions you’ve been wanting to ask me! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When I think of the term “Force of Happiness” I think of only one person: LIGHTbeamers Community member & my good friend, Leanne Smith.
Leanne brings so much sunshine into our Community and her smile & laughter can brighten any dark day, but she’ll be the first to tell you she hasn’t always been the Force of Happiness that she is today.
So what made the difference? How did Leanne leave the hard, heavy, & dark world she used to be in behind, & get to this positive place where she really wanted Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How do we teach our children about money & finances? Where do we begin teaching them about putting value on the relevant things and choosing what’s better?
Today’s guest is David Delisle: a successful entrepreneur, financial advisor, marketing director, & real estate investor, but most importantly, a dad. He’s been investing since he was 11 & is passionate about passing on the lessons he’s learned to teach kids how to live a rich life and create the freedom for what’s most important -- the Awes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Clutter is defined as “a collection of things lying about in an untidy mass.” But lately, with all the talk on minimalism and doing away with excess stuff, we’ve come to realize that clutter is more than just the physical and tangible things.
On today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I talk to certified health and wellness coach Heather Aardema about decluttering and focusing on “finding the more in less”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve been looking for a way to connect with your audience, whether in business or otherwise , then you’re in for a treat!
Today, we’re talking about a story prompt that’s not only going to bring back some pretty good memories for you, but also pull out great stories from inside of you and help you engage with people through storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Have you ever been called too much of anything?
I’d be willing to bet that at some point, each one of us has been judged, labeled, and called “too much” of something by other people. And I’m pretty sure we’ve listened to what others say about us far more than we should, and actually believed their words even when we know they’re not true.
It’s no wonder we find ourselves exhausted from trying to be what everyone expects us to be, instead of being who we really are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How do you turn a setback into the biggest comeback of your life?
Catherine Just was only 18 years old when she decided to get sober from an addiction that almost made her give up on herself. That moment was the beginning of her new life, and an amazing artistic career that has led her work to be featured around the world, including the cover of National Geographic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, I am launching a new category of podcast episodes called “Community Spotlight”, featuring LIGHTbeamers Community members who are working on sharing their story to shine a light for others.
We start off with Reaiah Rose Cubero, a mental health advocate who is on a mission to help women on their journey of faith and mental health. She has been an active member of our Community for the last 2 years, learning how to tell her story to reach her audience and get her message across. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Let’s face it: we find it so much easier to share our story if we can leave out those parts we think are not good enough to be told.
But when we downplay and edit out what could be the most important pieces of our story, we’re not giving our voices and our full stories a chance to be heard by those who need to hear it.
And yes, there are people who will gain inspiration and encouragement from our story, which is why it needs to be told and not edited out in a way that can diminish its significan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
They say, “A picture is worth a thousand words” — which really means when words aren’t enough, photos can become a medium for storytelling, especially when taken in a meaningful and reflective way.
When Marie Masse got into the world of photography, she had zero background and didn’t even have a decent camera to use. What started out as something casual quickly became a more thoughtful and intentional practice. She began to notice tiny stories and documented them with her lens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With the spread of the pandemic that affected -- and continues to affect -- millions of people worldwide came the rise in Asian racism. In speaking of this, we’re not only talking about racial slurs hurled toward Asian Americans, but also workplace inequity and discrimination, and physical violence.
Today’s guest is Michelle Hoover, an advocate for lifting women at work. She is using her voice to inspire solidarity against racism, and remind her fellow Asian Americans of their value and worth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Successful people often display the same qualities: passion, persistence, self-discipline, creativity, and commitment. But they also have one more thing in common and that is their willingness to fail.
So many of us get stuck and never move forward with our plans and goals because we’re scared of not being able to do it right the first time. We’re scared to make mistakes because failure hurts. It stings like a bee and it’s the kind of pain we don’t want to feel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are you waiting for that perfect moment to start something? Have you painted an imaginary starting line that’s supposed to mark just the right point in your life to begin doing what you’ve always wanted to do?
So many of us (myself included!) believe we should first get to a starting line — where everything is all lined up and completely ideal — before we work on a project or pursue a goal.
My friend, I’m here to burst that bubble and tell you: there is NO STARTING LINE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What do you do when you’re at mid-life, thrown a curve ball at work, decide to start your own business, and find out it’s not easy? You take the experience, seek out and support others who are in the same boat, and never look back.
When Colleen Kochannek found herself wildly unprepared to start and run an online business at her age, she realized there were others like her. And this is where she found the opportunity to help women over 50 navigate the online space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the work that I do, I help women dig out their story and amplify their visibility as they share it. But speaking your mind, telling your story and becoming more visible along the way can be quite hard — especially when you’re a woman who’s expected by society to stay small and stay quiet.
In today’s episode, I am talking to Diann Wingert — a therapist turned coach who works with women who have high potential but are under-achieving partly because they are holding themselves back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There will always be 2 sides to life: the beautiful and exhilarating one, and the other that’s messy and difficult. You can’t have one without the other, and even the most successful people I know who seem to have it all have gone through both. In fact, most success stories become even more fascinating and extraordinary because of the obstacles that had to be overcome.
But what does it take to navigate through this life that’s both messy and marvelous? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What I’m sharing with you today is something I have not openly talked about with other people.
It’s not so much that I’m ashamed of it. It’s because I don’t want it to define me as a person, and I don’t want to offend somebody dealing with this differently from me… so much so that as a result, I’ve been keeping myself from discussing it.
It’s about my life-long battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I’m fresh off 2 events that have left me feeling energized and truly inspired! And the relevant insights I took away were not just for the way I do my work as a Storytelling coach, but also for how I live my personal life.
On both occasions, one valuable truth struck me: we have to make the conscious effort of putting ourselves in the room and allowing ourselves to be transformed when we do that.
But what do I mean by “putting yourself in the room”? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s a pretty special day at The Inside Story Podcast because today, we have our very first gentleman on the show!
Dan Mangena is a motivational speaker, best-selling author & Wall Street Journal “Master of Success”. He is a multiple 7-figure business owner who has had his share of ups and downs before getting to where he is now. And as he and I take a look back at his journey, he shares some pretty powerful truths that will make you dream bigger for yourself than ever before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you’re an entrepreneur trying to build and elevate your business, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals has a transformative effect not only on how you work, but also how you live your personal life.
When I met Hayley Hunter Hines in 2018, she was already sharing stories of the women she was helping, and her passion for what she was doing was evident. And when I approached her to talk about her initiative, I realized I was speaking to a real LIGHTbeamer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If there’s one thing I have always considered to be a blessing in my personal life and my business, it would be the gift of Community.
But the significance of having and being part of a Community has not stood out more to me than during my very recent experience with Covid. What I went through emphasized clearly how my wonderful tribe of LIGHTbeamers plays such a big role in my life.
Whether you’re part of a huge community or a smaller tight-knit one, you’re going to want to listen to this episo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last week, I posted a story prompt inside my LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook and it went like this:
What is something positive in your life now that you didn’t have a year ago?
Today, as I sit in a quiet spot by the beach — on a much-needed break with my family — I am sharing with you by way of this podcast episode, my own reflection and response to this significant question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sometimes, life takes you on a path that’s way different from the one you thought you’d be on.
For Melonie DeRose, being a corporate lawyer was a big check mark on her to-do list. She was doing what she thought she was meant to do, and what everyone else said she was supposed to do.
But when she realized most of her days were just spent on autopilot and not making her feel alive, Melonie knew there was something missing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode with international keynote speaker and public speaking trainer Melanie Spring is such a good one!
She takes us on her journey from being a brand strategist interviewing companies and finding out what made them work (hint: it has something to do with stories!), to becoming a public speaker and trainer who helps other people bring their stories to the big stage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Whether it be in our personal lives or in business, creating connections and building relationships get easier when we openly share stories with our audience. A work presentation, a social media post, or even just an email to a friend becomes more interesting when injected with relevant stories. But it isn’t always easy to dig up stories we can use to engage with others. Sometimes, we feel our stories are too personal to be shared, or we may think they’re not interesting enough to be told. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Stories are powerful. They can teach us, give us hope and encouragement, provide comfort, inspire people, and transform lives.
On the other end of the spectrum, these same stories can also leave us feeling defeated, ashamed, and tied to an invisible chain.
After years of doing storytelling work, I’ve discovered far too many people are on the latter side of the scale: shying away from telling their stories and hiding behind feelings of guilt, shame or regret. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It has been a while since my last solo episode so this one right here is pretty special!
In all honesty, it took me some time to get around to recording this, which is ironic because as you will find out, the reason I’ve been holding off is actually what our topic today covers and addresses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When life gives you a series of unfortunate events, throwing in the towel seems like the easiest thing to do. But for Brittany Clayborne, admitting defeat wasn’t an option. She chose to push through everything that was put in her path and as a result, is now living out her soul’s purpose. She’s using her voice to tell her incredible story, and create awareness and intention in those who hear her words. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Denice Chenault is one of the most powerful women in network marketing. But she will also be the first one to tell you that she never thought of herself as a sales person, let alone imagined she could build a meaningful career people tend to associate with selling. On today’s episode, we go beyond the basics of network marketing and look at the heart of it through the eyes of Denice. Listen in as she takes us on her journey that goes back more than 22 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We all have money stories. Yet this topic is one that most of us shy away from and are even discouraged from discussing. Whether it’s from being told that it’s not polite to talk about money, or we’re too ashamed to discuss our own financial status, we do not talk about wealth as much as we should. But more than just the amount that’s sitting in your bank account (although this matters quite a lot!), true wealth depends on the mindset we have about money and our relationship with it ... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inspirational author Shannon L. Alder said: “There is no perfection, only beautiful versions of brokenness.”
That’s the truth. All of us have gone through heartbreak at some point, experienced difficult moments, and had dark days we thought would never end. And while our individual life stories may be woven uniquely, we ultimately have the same story elements and patterns such as love lost and found, birth and death, abuse and healing — and the same emotions that come with these experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you hear the words, “Today is a GIFT”, what does it mean to you? Does it strike a chord with you or stirs something in your soul?
If there’s anything that 2020 taught us, it is that truly, every day is a gift. “Tomorrow is not promised” might be a cliché, but it is a reality that should teach us one thing: there’s no better time than today to take action and be the best version of ourselves, and to live our best lives now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’re all familiar with the old adage: “Laughter is the best medicine”. But how does humor actually tie in with healing trauma that we go through at some point in our lives? Today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast introduces us to Pasha Marlowe — life and laughter coach, and holistic personal trainer. As Pasha shares with me, she started out like any other marriage and family therapist who uses traditional methods for treatment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The only thing that's constant ... is change. And no one is more familiar with change than my good friend — certified life and leadership coach Deb Cummins Stellato. As the Princess of Pivots, Deb is a lover of change, having gone through major shifts in her life that have defined who she is.
Change means letting go of something familiar and can therefore be a scary thing. But Deb has embraced change, saying that “success means leaning in to being courageous and being open”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In just a couple of days, a new year will begin. And with everything that has happened in 2020, it just begs the question: what do we want this coming year to be like? If we were free to imagine the best life for ourselves this 2021 and even beyond, would it feel unlimited? The internal exercise I share with you on today’s episode for choosing your word of the year is meant to be an intentional practice. It asks for a deep examination of what happened this past year ... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’ve all been there: days when our creativity just flows so naturally -- even magically! -- and we are so inspired that the ideas come one after the other without any effort.
Then one day, it all disappears. We lose the enthusiasm to create anything, we feel uninspired, and we don’t know how to get back into our groove again.
This is the ebb and flow of creativity and yes, my friends, I say “we” because I’ve been through this process, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When Minou Hexspoor and her husband found themselves trapped at home in Beirut at the start of the quarantine, a simple idea for a photo took them on an unexpected journey of documenting fun and different experiences … right from their living room! What began as a seemingly random Instagram post to commemorate Mother’s Day during quarantine, became a 60-day photo project that featured different movie characters, a day at the beach, a safari, fishing trip, and even camping! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’ve ever felt disempowered by your life or circumstances, this is an episode for you!
On the podcast today, I am joined by my good friend and Certified Empowerment Coach, Kofi Williams. 2020 proved to be one of the more painful years of her life -- and from it, she is rising bolder and more open about her truest desires.
I always get excited when I see a woman rising up to share her Vision and Voice… but like most of us, it hasn’t always been easy for Kofi! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When was the last time you said YES to YOU?
I’m sure you’ll agree with me when I say that for us women, our excuses are plentiful when it comes to doing something for ourselves. Sure, saying yes to others may come easily to us. But saying yes to ourselves is a totally different matter. Which brings me to the story I’m sharing on the Podcast today about a big decision I made to say YES to an amazing and life-changing trip for me, and the Red Dress that completely changed my perspective in 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Do you ever find yourself wanting to share a story you feel is relevant, but suddenly stop yourself, thinking that your story doesn’t matter? I know sharing your story may not be easy at first, with all the junk (yes, it’s JUNK!) going through your mind, telling you to play things down & not think big. And hearing my clients & people from my community make the same comments made me realize it’s about time we debunk these lies, get back on track & begin to purposely live our truths through our stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Your relationship with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you have.” - Robert Holden
We know the quote above to be true, but how often do we remind ourselves that we are amazing human beings, that we are worthy, and that self-love is our super power? Probably not often enough, which is why hearing my Mastermind coach George Bryant talk about the relationship between how we see ourselves and being successful in life just floored me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In today’s episode, Police Sgt. Toni Gonzalez and I talk about the inside story on how she came to recognize a silent issue in the police work force that included confronting a devastating memory from her childhood, and how she conquered her fear of being judged to launch a life-saving program that aims to help not just police officers, but all first responders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April shares her own Inside Story around a time she felt hopeless and afraid. She shares the painful experience of losing the facade of financial security when her husband walked away from a very toxic business partnership. As a young mom living life over 1000 miles away from nearest family, April spiraled into a dark hole of fear. It wasn’t until a defining moment on her closet floor, and the story of another woman that acted as a beacon of light was she able to find her way out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s topic is one I’m really excited about! Today I chat with Patty Lennon, intuitive business coach, about the Art of Receiving. Patty shares her own story (complete with some unexpected twists and turns) of how she learned to receive more for herself. We cover a ton of great information in today’s episode—so get ready to learn everything you need to know about receiving and how it plays a role in our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s guest is Lacey Marie, with amazing inside stories of her own. If there is one word I’d use to describe Lacey, it would be “survivor.” Despite many experiences on many different levels, she continues to march forward with strength and love. She’s also someone who takes the challenges and shares them openly with others in a way that makes my heart sing. Listen in to see how she harnesses the power of her story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I’m excited to share this conversation with Ros Smith today. I’ve wanted to feature Ros on the podcast for a long time! She’s had an enviable career in design and philanthropy. Her life was interrupted by a surprising cancer diagnosis in 2019, at just 58 years old. Her journey has continued to amaze me, and I know that you will also glean a lot from what she went through and the message she now shares from the other side of this experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode was born from two recent events: first, when I heard a quote from Michelle Obama that really gave me pause; and then, the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. In today’s podcast, I share some musings on the concept of feminism, how it has evolved in my life, and what I think needs to change for us to live in a world where we can bridge the gap between men and women so that everyone has a powerful voice that is heard. I’d love to hear from you! Please join us in the LIGHTBeamers communit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, my very special guest and dear friend, Sandra Sky (Scaiano if we’re being official) joins me on the show. When I realized it was my own short-term vision that had kept me from starting this podcast, I knew I had to invite Sandra on to talk about “the long game”—she even has her own podcast with the same name! So of course I invited her to talk more about what “the long game” really means, and spark some ideas for you around where you might need a longer-game vision as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No matter which stories I share each week on this podcast, my hope is that they prompt you to delve more deeply into your own inside stories as a result of listening here. Why? Because my fundamental belief is that we each have an important story to tell—and yours is no different. Today, I share how my personal philosophy around storytelling developed and why I’ve come to believe that our stories are so important (enough to build an entire podcast around!). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to the first episode of The Inside Story! Thank you so much for tuning in. I’m April Pertuis, and for most of my adult life, I’ve been captivated by the power of stories to connect people. My intention for this podcast is to simply bring insightful, inspiring stories that shine a light back on YOU, and spark something that prompts you to examine your own story and see how valuable it really is—especially when you decide to share it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices