Cool Change: Recent Episodes

Chuck Allen

You’re going to make a change at some point — why not make it cool? Reformed corporate exec turned podcast host Chuck Allen shares stories of leaders whose insights and stories are intended to help us be more intentional about designing our lives. Whether it be shifting from a corporate job to self employment, or dealing with unexpected life circumstances that force us to think differently, Cool Change is about becoming more purposeful about how we invest our limited time on this planet.

What happens when you stop coasting, stop justifying, and stop mistaking other people’s kindness for clarity? What happens when you finally pause long enough to really see yourself?

In this second installment of the Cool Change Method™ series, Chuck explores The Mirror—that uncomfortable but necessary moment when we come face-to-face with the gap between who we are and who we want to be.

Drawing from a life-altering health reckoning, years of coaching insight, and the quiet truths we often avoid, this episode invites you to slow down and reflect on the path you’re really on—not the one you hope you’re on, but the one your actions are taking you toward.

In this episode:* Why good intentions aren’t enough * The danger of mistaking momentum for alignment * How other people’s kindness can keep you stuck * A powerful wake-up call that came just in time * The most important question you can ask yourself right now

Mentioned: The Cool Change Method™* series (6 episodes) * Coaching insight: The most common identity shifts people face in midlife

Takeaway:The mirror doesn’t judge. It just offers you a choice. And the moment you’re willing to see yourself clearly—that’s the moment everything can begin to change.

There’s a moment — sometimes subtle, sometimes undeniable — when life starts to whisper that something needs to shift.

That moment is The Stirring — the first step in the Cool Change Method™ and the first solo episode in this new series. Whether you’re facing a clear transition (like a new role, relationship change, or identity shift) or simply feeling low-grade restlessness, this episode is designed to meet you right where you are.

🔸 What you’ll hear:

– How to recognize The Stirring

– Why it often arrives before clarity

– What to do when you’re no longer comfortable in your current chapter

🎧 Listen now (under 9 minutes)

🔗 Full episode page + journaling prompts → coolchangelifedesign.com/stirring

Series Info:

This is Part 1 of a 6-part series on the Cool Change Method™ — a grounded framework for navigating personal transitions with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

CoolChangePodcast #TheStirring #LifeDesign #IntentionalLiving #PersonalGrowth #Coaching

⸻

In a world fueled by stress and anxiety, emotional awareness is more vital than ever. On this episode of Cool Change, Chuck Allen speaks with Sarah Retzer, a mindfulness coach who transformed herself from a constantly anxious engineer to a thriving expert in emotional resilience.

Sarah shares how discovering mindfulness through InterMatrix Systems allowed her to move beyond simply managing emotions to actively training them—like building muscle at the gym. She explains how emotional patterns shape our reality, why intentional emotional responses are essential, and how we can shift from fear-based reactions to love-based interactions.

Whether you're feeling stuck in anxious loops, overwhelmed by emotions, or simply looking to enhance joy and peace in your daily life, Sarah’s insights offer practical tools to create lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

Emotions aren’t just reactions; they're patterns that we can consciously reshape.
Creating space between stimulus and response allows intentional emotional choices.
Intentional daily practices can shift emotional patterns, enhancing relationships and overall life experience.
Mindfulness and breathwork techniques effectively rewire emotional responses.

Special Offer:

Sarah is offering Cool Change listeners a complimentary special introductory three-session course designed to help you identify areas of your life ready for transformation, recognize emotional patterns holding you back, and begin the shift toward lasting peace and joy.

Connect with Sarah Retzer:

Phone/Text: 503-929-4632

Email: sarahretzer@innermatrixsystems.com

Recommended Books:

Emotional Intelligence 2.0* by Travis Bradberry & Jean Greaves
The Untethered Soul* by Michael A. Singer
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself* by Dr. Joe Dispenza

Enjoying Cool Change?

Subscribe, rate, and review—it helps us reach more listeners like you!

Thanks for joining us—keep living intentionally, and see you on the next episode!

In this episode of Cool Change, I share one of the most transformative experiences of my life—my journey with Ayahuasca. For decades, I lived with a deeply rooted fear tied to my heart health, stemming from childhood experiences with my father’s repeated heart crises. After a casual lunch with a trusted friend, I found myself embarking on an unexpected path—one that led me to confront my fear through Ayahuasca, a plant medicine known for its profound spiritual and healing properties.

In this episode, I take you through each step of that journey—starting with the preparation, to the intense three nights of ceremony, and the life-changing lessons I received from Ayahuasca. I reflect on how it reframed my understanding of my heart, not just as an organ but as the core of my emotional and spiritual being. Whether you're curious about Ayahuasca, grappling with your own fears, or simply love stories of transformation, this episode has something to offer.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The power of intention when entering an Ayahuasca journey
How childhood trauma and unresolved fear can manifest in our adult lives
The transformative experience of letting go of fear
The spiritual, emotional, and physical lessons Ayahuasca can offer
How my relationship with my heart—both physically and emotionally—was changed forever

Key Quotes:

"Ayahuasca told me: 'You will be remembered as a man with a very good heart.' And in that moment, I knew it wasn’t just about physical health—it was about how I live, love, and serve."
"What I once saw as a source of anxiety—those heart palpitations—became reminders, love taps, pushing me to go out and do something meaningful with my heart."
"Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help, and Ayahuasca put me in a position where I had no choice but to ask."

In this brief episode, I take you back to the summer of 1990—when my best friend Tim and I, fueled by our “do-it-yourself” mentality, embarked on a series of DIY adventures that nearly cost us our lives. From leaky boats to collapsing cars, we learned that sometimes the most valuable skill is knowing when to call for help. This episode explores the fine line between admirable self-reliance and reckless overconfidence, and how a little humility can be the key to growth and survival.

The Cool Change: Sometimes, growth comes from realizing you don’t have to do it all yourself. Knowing when to step back and ask for help is a form of strength, not weakness.

Michelle Huebner is a powerful example of how attitude can color your everyday existence. In this episode, Michelle shares her journey with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) and how it has shaped her perspective on life. She discusses the symptoms and challenges of living with FA, as well as the importance of finding joy and living life to the fullest.

Michelle emphasizes the need for independence and letting go of anger. Listen in as she shares her approach to everyday life, including a cool way to schedule more activities that bring you joy.

For more info on FA, check out www.curefa.org

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Inspiration

09:04 Finding Relief and Connecting with the FA Community

15:52 Hope and Progress in FA Research

45:10 Finding Happiness and Fulfillment in the Face of Challenges

57:20 The Power of a Strong Support System

01:10:20 Advocating for Others and Sharing Experiences

Lt. Col. Tim Doherty, founder of Doc's Healing Hives, shares his inspiring journey of finding healing and purpose through beekeeping. The conversation explores the therapeutic benefits of beekeeping, the impact of community and camaraderie, and the transformative power of finding a new purpose.

Tim's organization, Doc's Healing Hives, offers courses and support to veterans, helping them find hope and healing through beekeeping. The future goals of the organization include building a lodge and expanding their impact through farming and teaching others how to grow their own food.

Tim's advice to veterans is to never give up, find a new purpose, seek therapy, and connect with others.

Takeaways

Beekeeping can be a therapeutic and healing activity, providing a sense of purpose and helping individuals find solace and camaraderie.
Doc's Healing Hives offers courses and support to veterans, helping them find hope and healing through beekeeping.
Community and camaraderie play a crucial role in the healing process, and joining a group or association can provide support and connection.
It is important for veterans to seek therapy and not give up, as therapy can be a valuable tool in the healing journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 02:15 The Journey Begins 09:29 Therapeutic Benefits of Beekeeping 12:02 Doc's Healing Hives 16:10 Community and Camaraderie 24:23 Future Goals and Impact 31:13 Getting Involved 33:51 Advice for Veterans 36:05 Closing Remarks

Episode Summary:

Hi, I'm Chuck Allen, your guide on the journey to a more intentional and cooler daily existence. In this episode of Cool Change, we dive deep into the transformative power of finding joy in our workouts. Joined by Colin Feldtman, a former pro baseball player turned fitness coach, we explore how shifting our mindset from viewing exercise as a chore to embracing it as a source of pleasure can fundamentally change our relationship with fitness.

What You'll Learn:

How I went from hating every minute in the gym to looking forward to my daily workouts.
Colin's journey from professional athlete to a fitness coach, and how becoming a father has reshaped his approach to fitness.
The importance of finding your own motivation and tuning out the noise.
Practical tips for making your workout routine more enjoyable and less of a burden.
The power of asking, "What would this look like if it were easy?" to simplify and enjoy your fitness journey.
Why showing up is half the battle, and how small wins can lead to big changes.

Episode Highlights:

My personal transformation story and how I found joy in the gym.
Colin's professional insights on adjusting fitness goals and routines as life changes.
Our discussion on the psychological shifts necessary for embracing fitness as a joyful part of life.
Strategies for anyone looking to make their workouts more enjoyable and effective.

More Info:

Find Colin on Instagram: @colinfeldtmanpdx

Mentioned: @crossfittualatin, @crossfitonetwenty

Closing Thoughts:

This episode is for anyone who's ever felt like working out is just another item on their to-do list. Colin and I share our journeys and insights to help you move from dread to desire when it comes to your fitness routine. Remember, the goal is to find joy in the process, not just the results. Here's to making our fitness journey a pleasurable part of our Cool Change.

Summary

In this conversation, Chuck interviews Lisa DeAngelis about the Alexander Technique and its connection to change. Lisa shares her personal experience with the technique and how it helped her navigate a challenging medical diagnosis. They discuss the importance of choice and creating space for possibility in the process of change.

Lisa also highlights the significance of daily mindfulness practice in cultivating awareness and making conscious choices. The conversation emphasizes the holistic nature of change and the potential for transformation in everyday habits and actions.

Lisa also discusses her daily practices and the importance of mindfulness. She emphasizes the need to engage with each moment and reconnect with all our senses. Lisa also shares insights from her new book, 'Embracing the Unknown,' which explores the process of change and the tools and skills that can support it. She breaks down the book into three parts: why change, changing now, and living a life of sustainable change.

Finally, Lisa talks about her future plans, including creating new ways to have meaningful conversations about mindfulness and intentionality.

Takeaways

The Alexander Technique is a holistic approach to change that focuses on increasing awareness of how we use our bodies.
Choice plays a crucial role in navigating change, and embracing the unknown can lead to exciting opportunities.
Creating space and pausing before making a choice can help us break free from habitual patterns and make more intentional decisions.
The Alexander Technique can have a profound impact on various aspects of life, including physical well-being, performance, and personal growth.

Description: Welcome to another episode of Cool Change, where we dive deep into the stories of people who have reimagined their lives, and that inspire intentional living and finding joy in more moments. Today, we have an incredibly insightful conversation with Laura, a holistic wellness practitioner with a remarkable journey of transformation.

In this episode, Laura shares her personal story of leaving a conventional, secure job to follow her intuition and passion for holistic wellness (33:16). She opens up about the challenges, uncertainties, and ultimately, the fulfillment she found in making this life-altering decision.

Key Takeaways:

Discover how Laura tapped into her intuition to guide her through significant life changes and how you can do the same.
Learn about the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community and resources that align with your passions.
Understand the power of making a decision, even when the path ahead is unclear, and how taking small steps can lead to profound change.

Show Highlights:

Laura’s journey from a stable yet unfulfilling career to pursuing her passion in holistic wellness.
The role of intuition and ancestral wisdom in guiding life decisions.
Practical tips for aligning with your purpose and taking intentional steps towards change, regardless of your current circumstances.
Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence through action and experience.
Laura's insights on finding joy and fulfillment by aligning with your soul's purpose.

Resources Mentioned:

heal.me
holisticlifecommunity.com

Connect with Us:

If Laura's story resonated with you or if you're on your own journey of transformation, we'd love to hear from you! Share your story, thoughts, or questions by contacting us through our website (coolchangepodcast.com) or on social media.

Description:

In this deeply moving episode of "Cool Change," we dive into a heartfelt conversation with David Terry, a man who not only knocked on death's door but also engaged with it, exploring his boundaries and the limitless expanse of human resilience, potential, and the transformative power of love. Strap in for a wild ride that interweaves pain, love, death, and unbreakable spirit.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

How facing one's mortality brings an unparalleled perspective on life and living.
The unseen but profoundly felt power of love and community in times of personal crisis.
A glimpse into a family’s steadfast unity amidst the pervasive presence of terminal illness.
How to embrace challenges as pathways to uncover deeper emotional and psychological layers.

Key Takeaways:

Love as a Driving Force: How love, both giving and receiving, can be a potent motivator in our toughest moments.
Uncharted Territories of Potential: Explore the limitless realms of capabilities, bound only by one’s imagination and resolve.
Navigating Adversity: The intricate dance between confronting fear, tackling hardships, and emerging resilient on the other side.
Redefining Strength: A new lens to perceive strength, not as a stoic, unfeeling fortress but as a vulnerable, honest, and persevering journey through challenges.

Resources:

For more information on David’s coaching and work, you can email him directly at MrDavidTerry@gmail.com.

Connect with Chuck Allen:

Instagram: @chuckallen
Website: www.coolchangepodcast.com

Support the Show:

If David's story resonated with you, please consider supporting the show by subscribing, rating, and leaving a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories like David's to the airwaves.

Episode Release Date: October 5, 2023

Join us on "Cool Change" as we continue to delve into stories that remind us to embrace change, choose courage, and design a life you love.

Introduction:

In this episode of "Cool Change," host Chuck Allen engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Mandi Hudson, a psychiatrist and academic leader. Together, they explore the importance of curiosity, setting boundaries, and embracing the journey in personal and professional life. Dr. Hudson shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on mental wellness, authenticity, and the complexities of the field of psychiatry.

Key Takeaways:

Embracing Curiosity:
Curiosity is a powerful tool that fosters growth, change, and meaningful connections.
Remaining open and curious about ourselves, others, and the world enhances self-awareness and deepens relationships.
Asking "why" in a non-judgmental way allows us to gain a better understanding of ourselves and others.
The Journey as the Destination:
The focus on reaching goals and destinations often overlooks the beauty and significance of the journey itself.
Paying attention to the moments, connections, and experiences along the way enriches our lives and helps us find joy in the present.
The journey, with all its ups and downs, shapes us and allows for personal growth and authenticity.
Challenging Misconceptions:
Mental health and wellness are complex, and there is no single narrative or easy solution.
It is crucial to recognize that various factors contribute to societal issues such as the opioid epidemic or homelessness.
Avoid oversimplifying complex problems and instead approach them with an open mind and a willingness to understand different perspectives.
Mental Health in Medical Education:
Dr. Hudson aims to create a different learning experience for her students, focusing on holistic wellness alongside academic excellence.
Encouraging students to prioritize mental health and self-awareness leads to better outcomes for both the individuals and their patients.
Building authentic, whole-person physicians requires addressing mental health as a core component of overall well-being.

Recommended Resources:

Books:
"101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think" - A thought-provoking collection of essays challenging conventional thinking and encouraging personal growth.
"Demon Copperhead" by Barbara Kingsolver - A fiction book offering social commentary and providing insight into the lives of severely ill and traumatized teens.
Author:
Brene Brown - Known for her work on vulnerability and authenticity, Brown offers valuable insights into self-discovery and personal growth.

Conclusion:

Dr. Mandi Hudson's expertise and passion for mental wellness and psychiatry shine through in this engaging conversation. Listeners are encouraged to embrace curiosity, appreciate the journey, challenge misconceptions, and prioritize mental health in their own lives.

Through Dr. Hudson's unique approach to medical education, she inspires future physicians to become compassionate, self-aware healers who understand the importance of mental wellness in achieving overall well-being.

In this inspiring episode, Alden Mills, a former Navy SEAL Platoon Commander, entrepreneur, inventor, and author, shares his compelling journey from his time in the military to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Mills discusses his struggle transitioning from the military to a civilian life and the entrepreneurial spirit that was a constant throughout his life, which eventually led him to invent and launch his hit fitness products, "The Perfect Pushup" and "BodyRev."

Alden takes us through his process of invention, which starts with dreaming up ideas without constraints, just as children do. He categorizes ideas into improvements, inventions, and innovations, emphasizing the significance of creating functional prototypes and understanding your market. Mills also gives us a glimpse into his goal-setting application, "GoalBud." This app combines the power of a social network with goal-setting to help users commit to daily actions towards their goals.

Alden Mills introduces his next big dream, an adventurous and unique coaching platform – a floating platform on a large sailboat. Named "The Persistence," this sailboat would continually sail around the globe, becoming a meeting place for people chasing their dreams. This episode is filled with invaluable insights into entrepreneurship, inventing, and the power of dreaming and goal setting. Tune in to embark on this inspiring journey.

Show topics:

Transition from Military to Entrepreneurship (@5:00)

Alden Mills shares his struggle in transitioning from a Navy SEAL to a business school student, and how he found his calling in the entrepreneurial world. This section is an inspiring testimony of resilience and determination.

The Invention of The Perfect Pushup and BodyRev (@30:58)

Alden describes how he created his successful fitness products, "The Perfect Pushup" and "BodyRev." This segment illustrates the innovation process and the power of persistence.

Types of Ideas: Improvement, Invention, and Innovation (@35:48)

Alden categorizes ideas into three categories and discusses the importance of creating functional prototypes. This clip provides valuable insights into the world of inventing and product development.

Introduction of GoalBud App (@39:03)

In this section, Alden introduces his goal-setting application "GoalBud" and explains how it leverages the power of social networking to help users commit to daily actions towards their goals. It's a great showcase of how technology can support personal development.

The Dream of The Persistence (@41:44)

Alden introduces his next big project - a sailboat called "The Persistence," which would serve as a floating coaching platform. This inspiring segment exemplifies the power of dreaming big and sets a great example for those aspiring to make a unique impact in their field.

Today, we're diving into an incredible story of transformation. Brad Chandler began his journey by trying to help his son overcome severe anxiety, but along the way, he discovered that he was carrying some heavy baggage himself.

He realized that unresolved childhood trauma was holding him back, convincing him he wasn't worthy, and causing a whole lot of heartache in his life. We're talking two failed marriages, millions in business mistakes, and using substances to cope.

But then, something amazing happened. Through a powerful exercise and a commitment to meditation and neural reprogramming, our guest experienced a rebirth. He found self-love and self-compassion, and broke free from the lies that had been holding him back.

Now, he's living a life of true freedom, and he's here to share his proven process with you.

In this episode of Cool Change, host Chuck Allen welcomes back Ashley Baer, a mindfulness teacher who specializes in helping individuals in high-stress professions, including teachers, healthcare workers, and leaders, manage stress and improve their ability to influence others.

In her first appearance on the show, Ashley shared her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and using mindfulness to help others. In this follow-up conversation, Ashley shares more about how she works with teachers and other high-stress professionals to apply mindfulness techniques to their work and personal lives.

During the interview, Ashley discusses the benefits of mindfulness, including stress reduction, better decision-making, and improved communication skills. She also shares practical tips and strategies for incorporating mindfulness into everyday routines, even for those with busy schedules.

Listeners will gain insights into how mindfulness can help them manage stress and improve their ability to influence others, both in their personal and professional lives. Whether you are a teacher, healthcare worker, or leader, or simply looking to reduce stress and improve your well-being, this episode is packed with practical advice that you won't want to miss.

Thanks for tuning in to Cool Change. Don't forget to subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast app and leave us a review. And be sure to join us in two weeks for another inspiring conversation.

In this episode, we're talking to Tiffany Richards, founder of Peaceful Warrior Woman, about how to protect yourself both physically and emotionally.

Whether you've experienced a major life change or tragedy, or simply want to feel more confident and empowered in your daily life, Tiffany has some powerful insights to share.

We discuss everything from the power of morning disciplines to the principles of martial arts that can help you stay safe and centered.

But this episode isn't just about self-defense. We also delve into how being of service can pull you out of pain and small thinking, and how acting "as if" you are your best self can help you manifest the life you truly want.

Plus, we explore practical advice for protecting yourself both physically and emotionally.

So, if you're ready to feel more empowered and confident in your own skin, join us for this inspiring conversation with Tiffany Richards on Cool Change.

For more information, check out peacefulwarriorwoman.com, or check out the Instagram and Facebook accounts @peacefulwarriorphx.

Author of the new book "Always Forward," Vince Schiano's quest for purpose and direction in life led him to make a decision that would save a life and influence many, many more.

In this episode, Chuck talks with Vince about the events in his life that led him to a place where this decision was actually easy for him.

In his story, you may find inspiration for uncovering your own purpose... and why it may have more to do with others than yourself.

In this episode, Chuck is joined by his favorite leader, Rilla Delorier, who also happens to be his wife. Together they break down their design principes for a life well lived together:

Miere: A connection that is north of love and south of agapé.

Vitality: We are young in mind and body.

Mindset: We design with intention while allowing life to unfold as it will.

Purpose: We have fun and make a difference.

Family: Our family feels loved and cherished by us.

Fun: We are Friends of Frivolity and Guardians of Good Times.

Travel: We roam the planet purposefully.

Ever feel like you're running through life like it's a race? There's a better way. In this episode, Chuck shares a simple idea about how to be more intententional with the pace of your life.

In this episode, Chuck shares a very simple, easy way to think about whether you're spending your time doing work that is aligned with how you're wired. It's especially helpful to think about when you're considering a job or career change.

How do you know what serves you and what doesn't? In this episode, Chuck talks about how to evaluate the scripts and beliefs that we're holding to see if they have a place in our next chapter.

I won't give up on bluegrass, the open road, pinot noir, and Connect 4. But in some things in life, giving up is the strongest, wisest, most hopeful choice you can make.

If you're thinking about what's next in your career, my conversation with Rob Price, CEO of School of Rock, should be the next thing on your playlist.

In this episode, Rob talks about his own success journey and shares a ton of useful ideas about how to navigate life and career changes... and how to make good use of your time right where you are, even if it's before your next cool change.

The story of Mike Strawn, who - after suffering from multiple myeloma for at least 17 years - chose to die by self-administered suicide. This episode captures Mike and his family's thoughts and wishes in his final weeks, days, and hours.

My hope is that by listening to Mike's story, we are prompted to fear less and find joy more often.

Whether we think about it this way or not, all of us have a brand. When people encounter us, there are certain thoughts, feelings and images that come to mind which are, in effect, a sort of brand experience. With some intention, we can design our own brand to be a true reflection of ourselves in ways that communicate us more effectively to the world around us.

Allison Netzer is a branding expert and co-author of the new book "Think Like a Brand, Not a Bank," and she has some eye-opening ideas about how we can think about branding differently... either for ourselves or for our organizations.

Whether we think about it this way or not, all of us have a brand. When people encounter us, there are certain thoughts, feelings and images that come to mind which are, in effect, a sort of brand experience. With some intention, we can design our own brand to be a true reflection of ourselves in ways that communicate us more effectively to the world around us.

Allison Netzer is a branding expert and co-author of the new book "Think Like a Brand, Not a Bank," and she has some eye-opening ideas about how we can think about branding differently... either for ourselves or for our organizations.

Founder, Podcaster, and Pilot Mike Quinlan helps business owners make an "elite exit" from their businesses, and has some useful ideas and wisdom for the rest of us.

Author and Rented.com CEO Andrew McConnell wants us to start acting like owners - of our minds - and stop allowing self-doubt and negative emotions to stay rent-free. His new book, "Get Out of My Head - Creating Modern Clarity with Stoic Wisdom," will be available in June 2022. M. Andrew McConnell is the CEO of Rented, Inc. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, he graduated Harvard College, Harvard Law School, and the University of Cambridge with honors. As a member of the USA Open Water Swimming National Team, he earned an international bronze medal.

Before striking out on his own, Andrew worked as a banker, an attorney, and a consultant. He sits on the board of Sheltering Arms, is a founding Board Member of Atlanta Technology Leaders, and is a TechStars Mentor for social impact startups. Andrew lives in Georgia with his wife and daughter.

In this episode, Chuck talks with Andrew about why it's so important for us to pay attention to our thoughts so that we can live to our greatest potential.

More info about his book is available at mandrewmcconnell.com.

Keith Smith walked a well-worn path to success: make business the priority, and fit in everything else after. Not that unusual, really. And neither was the result: divorce, stress, and disruption.

What make’s Keith’s story unusual is what he did afterward: he used this moment in time as an awakening, as he calls it. He reversed the order of his priorities: business, abundance, relationships, health, and self.

Keith’s awakening, and his ongoing journey, may provide a few ideas we can use to shift our priorities before a crisis shifts them for us.

In this episode, he talks about why he turned Do-Have-Be into Be-Do-Have.

50TH EPISODE! Join special guest Rilla Delorier as she sits down with Chuck to reveal how they think about designing life to have fun and make a difference.

Jim Spicer has been sober for 19 years. And today he is on the front lines of intervention and building recovery solutions for families. He has spoken on the topic of recovery to over 50,000 people. In this episode, Jim and I talk about legitimate and real paths forward, whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or know someone who is.

Want to connect with Jim directly? Email him at Fcoup83@aol.com. And yes, he's heard all the "AOL is still around?" jokes.

Author, serial entrepreneur, and executive life coach Nick Kennedy talks with me about building a principled business, leading a purposeful life, and creating positive change as an entrepreneur.

His lessons are for all of us, whether we intend to start our own business or not. In fact, Nick’s definition of “entrepreneur” likely includes you, no matter your field of work.

Nick spent hundreds of hours visiting his father in prison before eventually starting several companies, including an airline that was sold in 2017. He was named a 2017 EY Entrepreneur of the Year, awarded Dallas Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and serves as a Capital Factory mentor and is on the boards of several companies. He’s been featured in NY Times, The Wall Street Journal, D Magazine, Texas Monthly, Dallas News, and the Dallas Business Journal.

Brain Coach, Speaker, and Creator of the fun and informative videos “Tiny Tips for Your Brain,” Jocelyn Brady sits down with me to talk about how we can literally change our brains to produce more outcomes that we want. She also discusses the science of play — and how important it is for adults to incorporate it as a way to keep learning and stay engaged.

We also discuss how to rewrite the stories in our brains to reflect how we want our lives to go.

In this episode, Jeff Otis and I riff about intentional life design, touching on—among other things—goal setting, playing to your strengths, personal accountability, and developing a roadmap for success.

Jeff is the founder of Project OTY (developing an Outstanding and Talented You), and is the author of two books, Transform with Confidence and Build Your Roadmap, Create Your World. You can also check out his TEDx talk, How to Create YOUR World, here.

Jeff believes that the future of our world depends on our ability to empower ourselves and the coming generations to be the leader in their lives, and that it’s up to all of us (regardless of age, background, or gender) to create a global culture of personal accountability.

Fitness expert and former pro baseball player Colin Feldtman shares simple steps you can take now to take control of your fitness whether you have a trainer and a gym or are going it alone.

Chef Z started cooking as a child, and grew up working in over 20 restaurants in every role you can think of. Today, she is a non-profit founder, private chef to NFL players, and a popular contestant on televison’s “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Chopped.” Her story of improvising in the kitchen - and in life - holds several important lessons for those of us who don’t want to be labeled too specifically in one career field, or who struggle with how to label themselves professionally.

Author and Coach Darcy Eikenberg believes that many people can make a cool change without blowing up their current situation. Her new book: "Red Cape Rescue: Save Your Career Without Leaving Your Job" is available now at your favorite bookseller. In this episode, we discuss ways to take control of your job situation and how to think about jumpstarting your career right where you are.

The workplace has changed dramatically over the last hundred years or so. Today, for many people, it’s less about securing food, water and shelter, and more about finding work that is meaningful and aligned with how they’re wired. In this episode, Ben Ortlip discusses why the workplace has changed and how we can apply a simple method to better understand how we’re wired, and therefore what sort of work might be best suited for us.

Filmmaker Shuja Moore is on a mission to reduce violent crime and gun violence in inner cities. After being convicted of a killing and spending 12 years in the prison system, he has an inside perspective on what it takes to make major life changes. In this episode, he talks about what led to his life of crime on the streets, the tragic event that ended a life, and about the series of experiences that helped him change his perspective and put him on a new path forward.

His current film project, Walkies, shares stories of people who have committed serious crimes and made sweeping life changes to improve their lives and the lives of people around them.

Sasha Purpura left a successful career in the technology industry, working for tech giants such as Nokia and Lotus, to become a leader in ensuring food sustainability and accessibility for all. Under her leadership, Food For Free has grown dramatically, increasing food distribution from ~700k in 2012 to 4.7 million in 2020. She is also co-founder of Plato’s Harvest Organic Farm and serves on the Board of Directors of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and Cambridge Nonprofit Coalition.

In this episode, Chuck and Sasha talk about how the fear of missing out (FOMO) can influence our behavior, how goal setting can both help and hinder, and how she pivoted from a career in technology to integrate all parts of her life in a new role.

The website is www.foodforfree.org and her email is director@foodforfree.org.

This marks the one-year anniversary of the podcast! Join me for 15 minutes as I share a few key learnings and insights from the past year, and let you know what’s in store in the coming year of Cool Change.

In this episode, I break down the meaning of “Cool,” and the meaning of “Change” as I’ve grown to understand from my guests over the past 12 months.

Dr. Gilles Lamarche is one of the most energetic, positive people I’ve ever met. And he credits what he knows about chiropractic with saving his life after a terminal diagnosis about 20 years ago. Listen in on this fascinating story.

Diane Hessan is a nationally recognized entrepreneur and expert on the American voter. Her new book, Our Common Ground: Insights from Four Years of Listening to American Voters, will be published in June and is available for pre-order now. Her work has been featured on CNN, NPR, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, Fortune, and includes more than fifty columns for the Boston Globe.

Diane is the founder and Chairman of C Space (formerly Communispace) and is a well-known disruptor in the market research industry. She serves on multiple boards and has been appointed to the Boston Globe’s editorial board. Her many honors include the Most Admired CEO award and Boston Power 50 awards from the Boston Business Journal, and Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year.

In this episode, we talk about how serendipity has played a leading role in her success journey, and how to create more opportunities for serendipity to occur in our own lives. We discuss the power of saying Yes more often, the nature of taking risks, and how she learned early on to improvise her way through life.

We also discuss her upcoming book, and how there is more common ground among American voters than they get credit for.

Jane Turner, Executive Director of the Atlanta Children’s Museum, talks with Chuck about her journey to leading one of the city’s cultural centerpieces. She discusses her decision to leave the workforce to spend more time as a mom and the identity challenges that brought with it, and about how getting involved in theater showed up in how she creates engaging environments at her current post and how taking risks has produced all the good things that have happened along her career journey.

She also talked about how learning and literacy fueled by play is true not only for children but also for us adults.

Please listen in on our conversation for a boost of inspiration and insight from one of Atlanta’s most well-known and respected leaders.

David Risher is the CEO and co-founder of Worldreader. His early appetite for reading, coupled with his technology background, encouraged him to launch an organization that now reaches more than 13 million readers across 46 countries with content in 52 languages. Worldreader helps children everywhere access the books they need to improve their lives and live their potential.

Before Worldreader, David left his executive post at Microsoft to join Jeff Bezos in building Amazon’s first billion in revenue as Senior Vice President of Retail. When he left after just five years, Bezos wrote a personal tribute thanking David for his leadership and hid it on Amazon’s home page with a secret link.

In our conversation, we talk about how romantic and functional mindsets play into decision making and career choices, what happens when we see the potential in people by default, and the one critical life skill that travel affords us, and much more.

When Sadie Lincoln and her husband, Chris, decided to start fitness company barre3, it was borne from a sense in which popular fitness models weren’t working for her, despite doing all the things and having all the stuff. Now with more than 175 locations in three countries, she is seeking to redefine fitness by helping people be “balanced in their body” and “empowered from within.”

This is a podcast about change, so I sat down with Sadie to learn about how she thinks about it… it’s one of the core ideas she’s espoused in her business from Day 1.

You can hear more about Sadie’s very unconventional early life and upbringing in podcasts like How I Built This and The Rich Roll Podcast, and I encourage you to do that.

In our conversation, we park on a few key themes and insights to see what makes her such an inspirational leader to thousands of people.

If you’ve ever considered starting your own business without leaving your day job, listen to how Katy Mallory partnered with her mom to do just that… all while parenting three young children.

With millions in revenue after only a few short years, and following a successful appearance on ABC Television’s Shark Tank, Katy talks with me about launching SlumberPod, the must-have device for parents who travel with babies and toddlers.

Cool Change Podcast listeners save $20 off their purchase of a SlumberPod purchased from the company website using discount code COOLCHANGE20.

Jeff Henderson, author of the new book "Know What You're FOR: A Growth Strategy for Work, An Even Better Strategy for Life” and someone Forbes just called "one of the top 20 speakers you need to hear” has launched a movement based on two game-changing questions: What are we known for? What do we want to be known for?

In this episode of Cool Change Podcast (link), Jeff discusses the importance of finishing strong before making a change to a new role or job, the role of purpose in our work, and how he has used his experience as a marketing executive for the Atlanta Braves and Chick-fil-a to help companies move from self-promoting to people-centric organizations.

A quick-hit of the most interesting and insightful lessons learned from my full-length interview with Pete Gumbrecht. If you haven’t heard it yet, go back and listen to that one first! You’ll be glad you did.

It took visiting Maui to make it happen (poor me, I know), but I finally caught up with Pete Gumbrecht to learn what sailing 28,000 miles on his boat in the middle of his career taught him about life and change.

"I met a lot of people who had allowed their dream to shackle them... but they weren't happy anymore. They had allowed the dream to own them and they had allowed it to become a burden instead of something joyful... and I didn't want that to happen. So I came back..."

A mini-episode that unpacks useful, practical, real-world insights taken from Episode 22 with Stuckey’s CEO Stephanie Stuckey (listen to that first).

Rilla Delorier discusses the importance of businesses having a soul and a story beyond the financials, the impact of fearless leadership, appealing to your tribe, and using the skills we pick up along the way in new ways and new roles.

Our invisible, inherited scripts often govern how we show up in life. Susan Eckstein, Ironman triathlete and women’s empowerment coach, shares her insights on how to take control of the stories we tell ourselves, and how one very unconventional decision opened her eyes to a more powerful way of living. Whether you want to make major life changes or just tweak certain aspects of your daily existence, this is the episode for you.

Introducing a new mini-episode format designed to pull actionable insights from podcast interviews, featuring Rilla Delorier. The idea is to unpack the stories shared in full-length interviews so that we can apply their lessons to our own lives.

In this episode, Chuck and Rilla discuss Cool Change Podcast Episode 26 with Ashley Baer. You’ll want to listen to that episode in its entirety before listening to this one.

Ashley Baer had it all growing up — living with her parents and siblings in a loving home in a safe, exclusive community — her childhood was nearly perfect… until a tragedy changed everything.

Listen in on Ashley’s story as she describes a series of events that unfolded over many years, and how she was able to make a few key changes that not only helped her recover, but is helping many others in the process.

Follow her on Instagram: @missashleybaer

Listen to her guided meditations on Insight Timer.

Practice virtual yoga with her through Village Yoga online.

Available on Apple Podcasts or your favorite listening platform.

In this episode I talk with Glenn Goad, CEO of Earthlink, about finding the good in challenging circumstances, and not assuming you know what someone else is going through.

His story of losing two fathers before he graduated high school, skipping college, and how he navigated the ranks of the business world to design a life of his own choosing — educates and inspires us to be more intentional about designing our own lives.

In this episode I talk with C.R. Celona, a digital media management and influencer marketing expert who is doubling down on a platform that promises to revolutionize and simplify volunteering and social impact.

The platform is called Cluster, and it’s a way to connect with like-minded people in cities all over the world to effect positive social impact. It also helps influencers and brands mobilize people to volunteer in a simple, easy and fun way.

Beyond the platform, we uncover the story of how his father and two other men helped shape his worldview in very memorable and lasting ways.

Cluster is an app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Career advertising and marketing executive Jeff Gray approached the end of his marketing career by starting a small business, Papa Bear Bakery, from his home in Atlanta, Georgia. It wouldn’t take long for him to be discovered by The Food Network, who found him on Instagram and invited him to join their 2020 show “Holiday Baking Championship.” And the rest is history.

In this episode, I talk with Stuckey’s CEO Stephanie Stuckey about the evolution of her career as lawmaker, litigator, and environmentalist that eventually led her to purchase her family’s legacy (and struggling) brand to mount a comeback story that is capturing the hearts of nostalgia-loving fans everywhere.

This is the story behind the story of the pivots and shifts she’s made along the way that have served to prepare her for this unexpected challenge.

What career is best for you? How should you be spending your time and energy? Popular speaker and trainer Ed Davis discusses why it can take so long for us to pay attention to the clues that have been there all along. His journey to discovering his highest and best career began with clues from his younger days, but it took two kids and a stock market crash to finally get him to close the gap between knowing and doing.

Julie Carrick Dalton’s first novel, “Waiting for the Night Song,” will be released next month to much anticipation. BuzzFeed calls it one of the most anticipated books of 2021, while a Medium article says it is one of the twelve most anticipated books of the new year.

In this episode, Julie shares the story of how a simple walk in the woods changed the course of her life dramatically. Once a successful journalist, she made a cool change when she decided to purchase a farm, pursue sustainable agriculture, and begin writing a novel.

Listen for how early life experiences, including a visit with the Archbishop Desmond Tutu during the unraveling of Apartheid, shaped her ability to pivot from one path to another, and to notice when it was time to make a change.

Laura Fravel helps elevate experts with an authentic brand they’re proud to “shout to the world.” If you’re going to make a cool change, you’re going to need to be thoughtful and intentional about how you show up. Are you authentic? Is your unique story and experience coming through? Does what you say and your digital presence align with who you really are?

In this episode, I speak with Laura about the importance of one’s own story and how to elevate it to be a purposeful brand. After all, you already have a brand… the question is — who is telling your story?

Tough time deciding what to do next? Been on the fence for a while? Making big life decisions isn’t always easy, and living in the in-between can be stressful.

In this episode, Chuck and Rilla discuss the power of deciding on a course of action, and how your decision mindset and immediate next actions can powerfully determine how your new path will manifest.

In this episode I’m joined by Rilla Delorier as we discuss how one simple strategy has the potential to bring more meaning, joy and mindfulness into your everyday existence. It’s so simple, in fact, that most people will overthink it.

We also wrestle with the balance between efficiency and getting things done (checking things off your list) vs paying attention and enjoying the small moments that make up our days.

Finally, we talk about the difference between speed and rushing, and how the two affect your peace of mind and effectiveness.

An ancient proverb has helped guide Ashish Bisaria through life’s changes: If the wind will not serve, take to the oars.

But this isn’t a message about habitual doing; it’s a story about moving forward through life’s changes with dignity, courage, perseverance, and — perhaps most of all — humanity and love.

One of the more heartfelt conversations I’ve had… Ashish shares what it means to plant trees the shade of which you will never see, the difference between ability and worth, and between presence and guidance.

Don’t miss this one. These ideas will stick with you for a long time, and may change the way you approach your next chapter.

This episode is for you if:

You feel like you’re stuck in a rut or routine

You’re tired of going along with the crowd

You’re capable of more excellence

You’re considering a career shift

You want to start a new business (and keep your current job, or not)

You love wine

My conversation with Chris Hermann, founder of 00 Wines, is a life lesson in what it takes to excel by choosing your own path — and doing things differently from everyone else. Chris has been practicing law for almost 40 years, and is now also at the helm of the award-winning 00 Wines; a business he started with his 90-year old father several years ago.

Along the way, we see how a relentless curiosity and pioneering spirit drove him to choose different paths than most people around him, and how these choices led to a richer experience of life, which led to different ways of thinking… and ultimately one of the most exciting new wine businesses in America.

Just in time for National Women’s Small Business Month:

Seems like it’d be easy enough… two women forming a 50/50 partnership to go into business with each other, believing that the two of them together are a far more effective force than either of them alone. Turns out it’s easier said than done… but it CAN be done.

In this episode, Sara Thomas and Holly Sydnor shift from secure, well-paying jobs to take a chance on doing business on their own terms, as a woman-owned business divided equally between the two of them. If you’ve ever thought of going into business for yourself, and perhaps with a partner, listen in to Sara and Holly’s story before you go any further.

In the first of several such episodes, special guest host Rilla Delorier turns the tables and interviews me for a change.

In this episode, I share one of the most powerful yet simple strategies I’ve ever discovered to improve the quality of life - with immediate results. It’s a strategy I’ve shared for 25 years and I still get people telling me how powerful it has been in improving their lives.

Jonathan McCoy is a deep thinker in the space of change. A long time consultant in this space, many of his most poignant lessons have come from life outside of work.

I caught up with him during a 4,000+ mile solo motorcycle ride and we discussed writing your own script, making what seems impossible possible, integrity, encouragement, and living fully.

Matt Milletto runs one of the most well-known coffee businesses in Portland, Oregon — a city known for its amazing coffee. In this episode, Matt shares how Water Avenue Coffee navigates change with a focus on community-centric business practices, continual innovation, treating people well, and sometimes making business decisions based on what feels right.

He has helped start multiple businesses, including a new one called Vehicle Chocolates (chocolate bars made with mushrooms) and another one called Virtual Coffee that teaches people to become better baristas in their own homes.

Cool Change Podcast listeners may use the promo code COOLCHANGE to receive a discount at both Vehicle Chocolates and Virtual Coffee. Thanks, Matt!

Chrissy McNair is passionate about helping caregivers live fully in the face of challenging life circumstances. Whether you’re caring for an aging adult, a special needs family member, or anyone else that deserves your energy, time and attention, you'll need to be resilient. After all, you don’t want to just “make the best of things” — you want to thrive and help the others around you do the same.

She’s the author of the upcoming e-book “Special, Too” and she’s offering a free copy to the first 50 Cool Change listeners to pre-order it by emailing her at chrissymcnair1@gmail.com.

Sarah Retzer spent more than two decades as an engineer, and has pivoted to start her own business. She retired in June 2020 from Boeing, and is now a full time certified mindfulness trainer.

In this conversation, she shares some of her observations about what people are struggling with these days, along with some straightforward approaches to creating more of the life you want to experience.

If you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or a thoughtful human being, you want to meet international artist and business owner Tiffani Taylor. Her work is found in collections all over the world, including Pierre Cardin, Oprah Winfrey, Diane von Furstenberg, and is included in the Salvador Dali Museum.

She is the embodiment of talent and heart, and will soon be a fan favorite guest on Cool Change. One of the more inspiring talks you’ll ever hear.

So many life lessons in just a 30 minute conversation.

Author, business founder, speaker, and wildly successful nerd, Aaron Hillegass shares his story of cool change with a comedic bent. Be prepared to take some notes, because this conversation is full of wisdom and great ideas about how to design your life, and why you should “not follow your dreams.”

You’ll learn why you don’t want to be the “pot holder lady in the Christmas Fair of life.”

Pam Kilday traded her rural upbringing for professional basketball, then a successful career in finance and technology, and is now a Director of a global technology company. And now she’s back home again, caring for the land, her neighbors, her animals and her parents. Along the way, everything from cancer to hurricanes threatened her life and property. But together with her wife Daphney, she’s made the wild ride home again.

Bonus: At the end of the podcast, hear a song written just for her that celebrates her journey and her amazing, positive spirit.

Their Cool Change was pivoting from land to sea as a way of life. In this follow up to last week’s conversation, Steven and Bonnie discuss what it’s like to charter, how they meet new friends, how much it costs to kick off life on a boat, and their most memorable story from their new life onboard.

Bonnie and Steven Carroll were land lubbers like most of us, until they decided the open seas were calling them to come live on the water.

This is the story of how they decided to sell their home and most of their belongings, and move onboard a catamaran in the Virgin Islands. They operate multiple businesses from onboard, including a charter service.

Have you ever thought about or taken on a side hustle? Something to make some money or pursue a passion in addition to your "day job?"

Listen to how Side Hustle Extraordinaire Kevin Mobley manages to live his life in interesting places and run two businesses in addition to his main gig, and how he came to the decision to leave the corporate life to live more on his own terms.

Learn more about his Mac and Cheese and Mask Business.

Bob Sima was a successful corporate professional and Shannon Plummer was a counter-terrorism expert for the U.S. federal government. Now, they travel the continent sharing their music, healing, and love with thousands of followers.

Hear the unlikely story of how two dreamers left the security and prestige of their former lives and became musicians, healers, and lifetime lovers.

Learn more about Bob and Shannon at www.wherethelightgetsin.us

Our guest today is known globally as one of the foremost thought leaders of our time. Fast Company called him one of the top 100 people who will change the way the world thinks. Joey Reiman is a best selling author, filmmaker, TED speaker, playwright, businessman, philosopher, and professor at Emory University’s renowned Goizueta Business School.

He’s also one of the coolest people you will ever meet.

Be prepared to take notes on this one. Listen in on our conversation as Joey talks about everything from near death experiences, to a brush with royalty, to starting a company, to the coolest thing he’s ever done.

Recorded at his home in Atlanta, Georgia.

Learn more about Joey here.

Cool Change is about inspiring and educating us to make shifts, pivots, upgrades, or wholesale remodels of our lives.

Listen to the stories of people who have faced risks and tough decisions in pursuing a new next chapter.