Epic and urban fantasy author Diamondra Raobelena is here to enchant us with tales from Madagascar and beyond. Starting her writing journey at just 11 years old, Diamondra draws from her rich personal experiences, including living with diabetes, to craft compelling narratives. We explore her latest work, "Battle of Majes, Chapter One," and get an exclusive glimpse into her plans for its sequel. Diamondra shares the joys and trials of her dual career as a writer and English and French teacher at school. Her reflections on life in Madagascar, her mother's influence, and the importance of mindset amidst economic challenges provide a unique backdrop to her storytelling.

When Terri Spitzer was diagnosed with leukemia at just 12 years old, her life took a path filled with unexpected challenges and profound growth. Join us as we journey through Terry's incredible story of resilience, exploring how she found beauty and purpose amidst life's complexities. Terri shares how the unwavering support from her family and friends, coupled with a fierce determination to succeed on her terms, empowered her to excel academically and in sports. Alongside her reflections, Terri recalls the pivotal influence of her first-grade teacher, who ignited her self-belief and resilience, proving the transformative power of a positive mindset.In another chapter, we focus on empowering experiences within healthcare journeys. Terri's work with individuals with disabilities reveals how small lifestyle changes can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Terri illustrates the profound impact of solution-focused thinking and realistic goal-setting in fostering growth and achievement. We also share stories of overcoming societal expectations, cultivating personal strength, and finding identity amidst life's most challenging moments. Whether recounting a young man's triumph at the Highlands Ranch community center or reflecting on a life-altering moment near the World Trade Center, this episode explores perseverance, empowerment, and the indomitable spirit of human resilience.

Dedo Suwanda, a remarkable blend of chemical engineer and spiritual guide, shares his insights on the spiritual journey that inspires both the heart and mind. In our episode, Deo, the author of "Destined for Glory: The Race to Receive the Crown," sheds light on why many believers struggle with spiritual growth despite their longtime faith. He explores how a systematic approach to understanding scripture and the Holy Spirit's guidance can transform the spiritual experience. Dedo's journey from skepticism to profound faith is a testament to the power of seeking deeper meaning in life.Listeners are guided through the complex dance of faith and science as Dedo weaves his chemical engineering expertise into spiritual themes, offering a fresh perspective on chaos, order, and the refining nature of suffering. We discuss the purpose of money in a Christian's life, challenging the notion that wealth and spirituality are at odds. Dedo passionately connects business principles with spiritual growth, promising insights into achieving spiritual and financial fulfillment. His conversation is a call to those searching for a meaningful existence, balancing life's demands with the quest for spiritual enlightenment.

Is extreme entrepreneurship the key to changing the world? Tune in to learn how Steve Jobs and Jesus Christ, two seemingly disparate figures, have reshaped their realms through visionary leadership. Join us and our special guest, author Tracy Emerick, as we explore insights from his book, "Extreme Entrepreneurs: Steve Jobs and Jesus Christ." Discover fascinating parallels between technological innovation and spiritual transformation and how these icons, alongside other visionaries like Walt Disney and Elon Musk, have redefined their landscapes by embracing their inner creativity and self-belief despite the naysayers.

Retired US Air Force Colonel Aaron B. Floyd joins us for a powerful discussion on Black Americans' overlooked yet significant contributions to the defense of democracy, inspired by his book, "Defending Democracy While Black." From Crispus Attucks, the first martyr of the American Revolution, to today's Black military personnel, Colonel Floyd offers a thought-provoking narrative on the historical and contemporary sacrifices that have shaped our nation. He passionately underscores the critical importance of voting as a means to uphold democratic values, urging communities to actively engage in electoral processes to ensure a more equitable future for all.Colonel Floyd's captivating stories give us insight into his dynamic career as an intelligence officer, highlighting the unsung heroes behind strategic military operations. His experiences within the Strategic Air Command and across global postings illustrate the critical roles of ground personnel in maintaining national security. As we conclude, there's an inspiring message woven throughout this episode: the importance of taking proactive steps to make a positive impact. We express our gratitude for Colonel Floyd's invaluable perspectives and look forward to deepening this conversation in future episodes.

Unlock the secrets of storytelling with Mic Lowther, a prolific author whose path to literary success is anything but ordinary. Join us as Mic candidly reveals the highs and lows of his writing journey, from the unforeseen success of his "failed experiment" in children's books to the riveting tales of the Morehouse Trilogy. Discover how Mic's resilience guided him through the challenges of self-publishing and led him to create unforgettable characters like Sydney Bridgewater, a computer programmer turned intrepid private investigator. This episode promises an insightful glimpse into the mind of a writer who turns setbacks into stepping stones, crafting stories that resonate with readers around the globe.

Join us for a compelling conversation with Cat Buchanan as she shares insights from her memoir, "Girl in Flight." This episode uncovers Cat's extraordinary journey through the glitz and chaos of Manhattan and Hollywood during the 60s and 70s. We explore her experiences with adoption, alcoholism, and acrimonious divorce, all of which shaped her path to becoming a successful media lawyer. Cat reflects on the complexities of her privileged yet emotionally challenging upbringing, and how it led her to develop self-sufficiency and independence.As we explore Cat's bi-coastal upbringing amid a turbulent custody battle, we learn how her early exposure to legal proceedings and her parents' emotional struggles influenced her journey. Cat discusses the East and West Coast cultural contrasts and how these experiences made her more curious and confident. Writing "Girl in Flight" allowed her to confront her childhood's emotional challenges, emphasizing the importance of compassion, patience, and the symbolic significance of "flight" in her life.Throughout our conversation, Cat shares the motivations behind writing her memoir and the significance of resilience in overcoming adversity. She highlights the importance of self-care and the evolving ambitions throughout life's decades, from the 20s to beyond the 50s. Cat's story is a testament to thriving despite difficult circumstances, and her book's upcoming launch at the Frankfurt Book Fair adds to the excitement. We encourage listeners to embrace their inspirations and take meaningful actions that positively impact the world. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with insights, reflections, and a heartfelt dialogue with Cat Buchanan.

What drives someone to fight tirelessly for justice, especially those who might otherwise be overlooked? Join us as we sit down with David Lever of Lever & Ecker, who shares his profound journey inspired by his younger brother Jeffrey. David’s mission extends beyond the courtroom as he works to pass the Grieving Families Act in New York, aiming to secure recovery for grief and anguish in wrongful death claims. His relentless advocacy highlights the need for equitable compensation for all, regardless of economic status, revealing the true heart behind his legal battles.From the business side of law to the personal touch needed for client relations, we discuss the transformation of running a law firm with David. Learn how to leverage a fractional CFO for revenue forecasting and consulting experts like Gary Falkowitz, who have honed client intake processes and aligned them more with corporate efficiency. We also explore the critical balance between rigorous legal work and personal well-being, stressing the importance of family time, self-care, and continuous education. This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights into the challenges, rewards, and heartfelt human connections that define the legal profession.Visit David's website for more: https://www.leverecker.com/

Growing up in Cincinnati during the late 50s and early 60s as a Black man, Martin Terrell faced a barrage of social injustice and urban prejudice that left lasting scars. Yet, from these deep and often painful experiences, he has emerged with a powerful narrative that he shares in our latest episode. We sit down with Martin to discuss his book "Unseen Scars," where he recounts everything from being wrongfully imprisoned for six years to facing racial profiling even as a university vice president. His story is a profound reminder of the enduring impact of racial discrimination and the unseen struggles that so many endure.We also explore Martin's incredible advocacy and education journey within a correctional facility's walls. Discover the Black History and Culture Group's transformative power that he helped establish, promoting constructive engagement and personal growth among inmates. From preventing riots to fostering an environment of mutual respect and learning, Martin's efforts have had long-lasting positive outcomes. We wrap up Martin’s reflections on the importance of visibility and taking action against hidden struggles, offering listeners valuable insights and inspiration for their lives. Join us for this compelling episode and witness the resilience of the human spirit against adversity.

Have you ever had an experience so profound that it changed the entire course of your life? Fred W. Scott had just that—a transformative moment that led him from skepticism to unwavering faith. In this week's episode, we invite you into Fred's journey, where he recounts the divine interventions that saved his marriage and guided his significant contributions to veterinary medicine. From a pivotal "Damascus Road" experience to recognizing God's hand in his groundbreaking research on feline infectious diseases, Fred's story is a testament to the life-changing power of faith.We also glimpse the vibrant life of Fred's extended family, where resilience and gratitude are cornerstones. Hear about Nicholas, the oldest great-grandchild born completely blind, and how he continues to inspire everyone around him. Learn about a family's journey from home health care to running a senior care facility, influenced by memories of the Great Depression and World War II. This episode is not just about personal transformations; it's a celebration of making meaningful choices and recognizing the guiding hand of faith in our lives. Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, gratitude, and encouragement to make a positive impact.

Experience the magic of personalized couture as we sit down with Joy Teiken, the visionary behind the luxury collection Joynoelle. Discover how Joy’s bespoke design process, which involves draping fabric directly on her clients, emphasizes every woman's natural beauty and unique shape. Joy shares her collaborative approach, tailoring her involvement to each client's needs and vision. Despite geographic challenges, she explains how this hands-on experience makes her South Minneapolis atelier a destination worth seeking.In this episode, we also journey through Joy's eclectic creative inspirations, from mycology to coral reefs, and hear about her transition from art teacher and Peace Corps volunteer to renowned fashion designer. Joy opens up about the emotional depth of her work, especially when crafting custom bridal gowns, and the intimate connections she forms with her clients. Listen as we explore how Joy’s distinctive style and steadfast independence from trends have propelled her success over the past two decades, making every piece she creates a true work of art.

Discovering the magic of acting is a journey that begins early for some of us. I vividly remember the first time I felt the thrill of captivating an audience in eighth grade. My guest, Raye Spielberg, relates deeply to this experience, inspired by her early days of dance, ice skating, and sketchwriting with her sister. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of Raye's path in the acting world, from her humble beginnings to her rising stardom in the holiday movie Merry Good Enough.Raye and I unpack the highs and lows of an acting career, sharing personal anecdotes and strategies for handling the inevitable rejections and disappointments. We reflect on the joy of making an audience laugh, the importance of resilience, and passion's transformative power. We also discuss how reframing auditions as opportunities for enjoyment rather than fear can make all the difference. Raye's journey is a testament to the value of perseverance and the fulfillment that comes from pursuing one's dreams, no matter the obstacles.As we focus on "Merry Good Enough," Raye opens up about the unique experience of filming this holiday movie chronologically, bringing a sense of authenticity and spontaneity to the performances. This segment delves into profound family dynamics and personal growth themes, offering listeners a glimpse into the emotional depths that acting can plumb. With the film's success on Apple TV and Amazon Prime and an exciting array of future projects in the works, this episode celebrates creativity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of artistic passion. Stay inspired and keep following your dreams, just as Raye Spielberg does.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to thrive in the world of independent filmmaking? Join us for an insightful conversation with Brady Bryson, a multi-talented actor, writer, and director whose latest film, "Sideways for Attention," is making a remarkable impact on the festival circuit. Brady opens up about the electrifying experience of premiering at the Big Apple Film Festival, clinching the Best International Feature Film at the Santorini International Film Festival, and participating in other prestigious events like the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Soho International Film Festival.Brady's journey into filmmaking started with a childhood fascination for movies, sparked by a memorable night watching "Taxi Driver" with his parents. This episode delves into those early days of stop-motion films with Legos and action figures and a life-changing encounter with Rob Reiner that steered him toward understanding acting before diving headfirst into filmmaking. You'll hear about the unwavering determination and mentorship that shaped his path, culminating in a family trip to Los Angeles that solidified his commitment to the craft.We also explore Brady's creative evolution, particularly a short film concept that expanded into a feature-length script influenced by a personal crisis and the 20th anniversary of September 11th. Through candid reflections on personal and national trauma, Brady shares his long-term vision and excitement for the future of filmmaking. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the resilience and creativity required to succeed in the film industry.

Every day, I encourage my kids to be the best leaders they can be, and it got me thinking about what authentic leadership entails. I'm thrilled to share this episode featuring Jawad Gilani, a luminary in the HR field and a valued member of the Forbes HR Council. Jawad is also a leadership coach from Harvard and an HR consultant and trainer. He and I started this enlightening conversation by exploring the idea that leadership begins at home. He shares his perspective on caring for others, leading by example, and fostering trust, emphasizing that you don't need a formal title to be an effective leader. It's about creating spaces where everyone feels safe and valued.We then tackle the subtler aspects of leadership, with Jawad explaining how ego can be a destructive force, stifling creativity and growth. He advocates for a more inclusive approach that encourages team members to find their solutions and generate new ideas. From his own educational experience in North America and his observations on the global talent pool, particularly in tech industries like Pakistan's, Jawad provides an engaging narrative on how the career landscape is shifting from traditional paths to more dynamic fields.Finally, we dive into the complexities of leadership in today's ever-changing world. Jawad and I discuss the challenges of motivating and engaging a multi-generational workforce, especially amidst evolving workplace dynamics and technological advancements. Through inspiring anecdotes and invaluable advice, we reflect on the importance of maintaining an open mindset, respecting young employees as future leaders, and adapting leadership styles to the diverse capabilities of team members. This episode is packed with practical takeaways designed to help you enhance your leadership journey, no matter where you are.

Donna Lynd, a versatile writer with a lifelong passion for storytelling, invites us into her world of creativity and craft. Known for her latest novel, "Leaving Innocence: A Gran and Bass Olsen Mystery," Donna shares her journey from staging childhood plays in her Stillwater, Oklahoma basement to earning a doctorate in instructional technology at USC. She reflects on the influence of Neil Simon's realistic yet comedic style on her work and how this admiration fueled her career, encompassing educational materials, screenplays, and film reviews. Donna’s eclectic background showcases her dedication to exploring various genres and mediums, painting a vivid picture of a writer committed to her craft.In a captivating discussion, Donna dives into the heart of "Leaving Innocence," introducing us to a brilliant young narrator and his extraordinary grandmother as they tackle mysteries in the fictitious town of Innocence, Arkansas. Drawing inspiration from her time at Pomona College, Donna explores the complexities of character development and the unexpected reactions they can provoke. The narrative weaves themes of resilience, justice, and moral choices, promising a rich tapestry of storytelling that leaves listeners both inspired and eager for more. Wrapping up with a heartfelt conversation on the importance of visibility and action, Donna encourages our listeners to stay motivated and continue pursuing their passions.Buy Donna's Book on Amazon: "Leaving Innocence"

Sarah Dusek is a pioneering entrepreneur, investor, and author of the Amazon 5.0-rated book Thinking Bigger: A Pitch-Deck Formula for Women Who Want to Change the World. In this episode, we explore female entrepreneurs' challenges and triumphs, particularly those related to securing funding and scaling businesses.Here are three key takeaways that I believe will resonate with many of you:1) Understanding the Funding Gap: Sarah highlights a staggering statistic: fewer than 30 women have publicly taken their companies on leading stock exchanges. This is primarily due to the significant funding gap for female-founded businesses, with only 2% of venture capital funds going to women annually. This episode highlights the importance of bridging this gap and empowering women entrepreneurs to seek the capital they need to grow their businesses.2) The Importance of Thinking Bigger: One of Sarah's most powerful messages is the need for women entrepreneurs to think beyond conventional limits. Many women pitch their businesses with modest revenue goals, often aiming for just a million dollars in a few years. Sarah challenges this mindset, urging entrepreneurs to envision their businesses as potential $100 million ventures. By thinking bigger, we can attract the right investors and create scalable businesses that truly make an impact.3) Navigating the Investment Landscape: Sarah shares her journey of raising capital and the lessons learned. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of the investment world, including what investors are looking for and how to communicate the value of your business effectively. This episode serves as a roadmap for female founders, providing insights into how to present their businesses as investable opportunities.Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply someone interested in the dynamics of business growth, this episode has something valuable for everyone.Sarah's Website: https://sarahhdusek.com/Enygma Ventures: https://www.enygmaventures.com/Thinking Bigger book on AmaZON: https://a.co/d/2aLgFrl

Crafting the perfect look for food isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s an art form that tells a story. In today's episode, we are privileged to chat with Callie Blount, a talented freelance food stylist from Nashville. We'll uncover her journey from food blogging to mastering the intricate techniques that make food irresistible on camera. From creating artificial ice to perfecting liquid tones, Callie shares her creative secrets and how she balances her commitment to natural products.Overcoming perfectionism in a creative field is no small feat. Callie opens up about her struggles with self-doubt and the drive for perfection that initially held her back. With the support of her husband and a powerful personal mantra, she found her way to success. We also discuss her aspirations within the food styling industry, including her goals of securing major commercial accounts and her exciting plans to launch a podcast and write a book. Callie’s story is a testament to the importance of persistence and the impact of a robust support system.Balancing creative expression with the grounding influence of family and faith is crucial. Callie reflects on how perfectionism and people-pleasing were challenges she faced, shaped by her upbringing. Through counseling and a deeper understanding of her faith, she found personal growth and perspective. We explore the transformative power of family and children and the significance of using our unique gifts to spread love and kindness. Callie's journey is an inspiring reminder that our creative talents can leave a lasting legacy and that perseverance through challenges leads to personal and professional fulfillment.

Join us for a riveting conversation with Erick Deloach, the insightful author behind "Trump is a Winner: How the Republicans Can Win the 2024 Election and Future Elections." Eric opens up about the motivations driving his book, shedding light on how a key study from Princeton University on racial employment disparities and his encounters with government loan processes under the Biden administration fueled his shift from a lifelong Democrat to an independent thinker. Erick offers a detailed roadmap for how Trump and the Republicans can navigate the upcoming 2024 election, with a nuanced focus on voter demographics and the critical voting patterns of Black females.

What if you could transform a mundane product into a compelling story that captures your audience's attention? Join us as we welcome Ashlie Garcia, the innovative founder of gaab Media, who brings her wealth of knowledge on branding strategies tailored for busy entrepreneurs. Ashlie shares how understanding and articulating your journey can elevate your brand from ordinary to extraordinary, providing practical advice for crafting impactful brand stories that resonate deeply with your audience.Ashlie and I delve into the art of personal branding, revealing how aligning your brand with your target audience is crucial for success. We discuss the iterative nature of branding, stressing that it’s a continuous feedback and refinement process. From choosing the right colors to reflecting personal preferences and life events, Ashlie emphasizes the importance of creating a dynamic brand backbone that can grow and evolve with you and your business.We also touch on the profound impact of legacy and the essential role of passing on skills to the next generation. Highlighting the importance of authentic, organic conversations in our digital age, we explore how to blend spirituality and personal growth to lead a purposeful life. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that combines branding expertise with profound reflections on personal development and legacy building.This episode is powered by our friends at Gizmogo.com: Turn your old electronics into cash.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Vana McCreary, author of "Marilyn Manson and Me: A Production of Pandemonium and Dysfunction," as we uncover her unique insights into trauma and abuse. Vanna bravely shares her personal experiences of childhood abuse inflicted by women, challenging societal biases that often overlook female-perpetrated abuse. She discusses the implications of these biases on men, particularly in high-profile cases like the Johnny Depp trial. Drawing from her background in marriage and family therapy, Vanna offers a compelling narrative that intertwines her professional expertise with her journey, urging us to reconsider how we view and address abuse in all its forms.Buy Vana's Book on Amazon Today: https://a.co/d/34TdB3q