Coaching In Session | Mastering Mindset and Personal Growth

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden sits down with Dr. Jenn Donahue—retired U.S. Navy Captain, engineer, and leadership strategist—to explore what it takes to lead with confidence in today’s ever-evolving world.

Drawing on 27 years of military experience, including combat deployments and commanding teams of up to 1,800 personnel, Jenn shares her journey through imposter syndrome, near-death experiences, and engineering feats under pressure. This powerful conversation digs into the heart of leadership: trust, empathy, and the courage to grow through fear.

Whether you're leadin...

In this conversation, Michael Rearden explores the profound impact of self-talk and the stigmas associated with personal labels. He emphasizes overcoming negative narratives and embracing vulnerability as a pathway to personal growth. Through anecdotes and insights, he encourages listeners to reflect on their childhood experiences, redefine their narratives, and actively seek help when needed. 

The discussion highlights the journey of self-improvement, the significance of a positive mindset, and the necessity of taking action to create meaningful change in one's life.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Self-talk significantly influences our sel...

In this empowering episode of Coaching In Session, Michael Rearden delivers a powerful message about turning potential into progress. He unpacks the truth that while many people have big dreams and brilliant ideas, the difference between success and stagnation lies in execution.

Through personal stories and actionable insights, Michael explores overcoming fear, defeating procrastination, and staying disciplined when motivation fades. This episode is a wake-up call for those sitting on untapped potential—it’s time to take action, own your uniqueness, and make your mark.

If you're ready to stop...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden speaks with Dr. Toby Travis—an award-winning author, educational leader, and developer of the TrustED framework—to unpack the powerful impact of trust on school leadership and organizational success.

Dr. Travis shares how building trust in educational environments isn't just a nice-to-have—it's the number one predictor of school improvement and student achievement. Drawing from decades of research and experience, he explains why 70% of school initiatives fail, how to fix human-centered issues before tackling academics, and the essential role parents, teachers, and individualized learning play i...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden sits down with Zoia Ye—a success catalyst, trauma survivor, and transformation expert—to uncover the powerful journey from surviving abuse to becoming a catalyst for global empowerment.

Zoia shares her raw story of overcoming domestic violence, limiting beliefs, and the painful challenges of immigration. Through deep reflection and mindset mastery, she reveals how resilience, emotional awareness, and celebrating small wins can shift lives. Together, Michael and Zoia explore what it means to stop settling, break generational cycles, and reclaim your power.

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In this motivating episode of Coaching In Session, Michael Rearden challenges the self-limiting beliefs that hold us back and unpacks the power of cultivating a growth mindset. He shares how habits, mental toughness, and adaptability are the keys to unlocking continuous personal evolution.

He speaks directly to those ready to break free from fear, self-doubt, and resistance to change. Drawing from both personal experience and the wisdom of others, he offers tools for building resilience and embracing transformation. If you're ready to stretch beyond your limits and discover what you’re truly capable of, th...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden sits down with David Pasqualone—marketing expert, coach, and host of the Remarkable People Podcast—to explore the deep connection between purpose, resilience, and faith.

David shares his powerful personal story of overcoming extreme adversity—from a life-threatening tumor as a teenager to family turmoil and personal trauma in adulthood. Through it all, he’s discovered how to trust God, live with purpose, and empower others to do the same. This conversation uncovers the mental barriers that hold people back, the fear of success, and how...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden welcomes Blake Lefkoe, a certified facilitator of The Lefkoe Method, to explore the power of eliminating limiting beliefs and stepping into true personal freedom.

Blake shares her journey of overcoming addiction, rediscovering her purpose, and using The Lefkoe Method to help others transform their lives. She explains how most limiting beliefs are rooted in childhood and how reinterpreting them can result in lasting emotional and behavioral change. The conversation also dives into parenting, energy, and the importance of choosing the right mentor or coach.<...

In this reflective solo episode of Coaching In Session, Michael Rearden uncovers the power of storytelling in education and personal transformation. Using the story of Abiyoyo as a catalyst, he dives into the six fundamental life questions—Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How—that guide identity, purpose, timing, and motivation.

He challenges listeners to go beyond surface-level thinking and truly understand the forces shaping their lives. With a strong focus on mindset, environment, and timing, this episode is a powerful invitation to embrace the journey of becoming your best self. If you're seeking clar...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden welcomes Davin Salvagno, a bestselling author, speaker, and leadership consultant, to discuss the power of purpose, the importance of boundaries in leadership, and how life events shape our direction.

Davin shares insights from his journey—from teaching to consulting—and explains why great leaders must be others-focused, how organizations can clarify their purpose, mission, and vision, and why being coachable is essential for growth. He also touches on the Thieves of Purpose, the mindsets that hold people back, and how leaders can unlock their full...

In this thought-provoking solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden explores the powerful relationship between purpose, vision, and mission—and why clarity is the essential ingredient that brings it all together.

He breaks down how distractions, information overload, and fear can derail even the most ambitious goals. He shares insights on how to simplify your life, declutter your mind, and embrace actionable steps that keep you aligned with your true calling. Through personal reflections and practical strategies, this episode serves as a guide for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their ne...

In this focused solo episode of Coaching In Session, Michael Rearden unpacks the core pillars of personal and professional fulfillment: purpose, mission, and vision. He reveals how understanding these foundational concepts is essential for building a life of clarity, direction, and meaning.

He also emphasizes the power of mindset, likening it to a sword that must be continually forged and refined. This episode is both a mirror and a map: it invites you to reflect on your own life, understand what drives you, and take intentional steps toward your vision. If you're feeling directionless...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden sits down with Cesar Cardona, a speaker and mindfulness expert, to explore the journey of self-discovery, the power of mindfulness, and the balance between societal expectations and personal fulfillment.

Cesar shares insights from his life experiences, including his transformative studies with Sri Lankan and Tibetan Buddhist monks. The discussion highlights why letting go is essential for growth, how self-discovery leads to inner peace, and why success doesn’t always equate to happiness. Michael and Cesar also dive into the role of community, resilience, and vu...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden sits down with Nella Dwyer, an ADHD executive coach and internationally recognized singer-songwriter. Nella shares her expertise on neurodiversity, ADHD strengths, and how to navigate life and business through an ADHD lens.

Together, they discuss the stigma surrounding ADHD, how individuals can identify and harness their strengths, and why ADHD can be a superpower in entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership. Nella also dives into essential ADHD management tools—including verbal processing, boundaries, sleep, and exercise—that can help neurodivergent individuals thrive personally and professionally.

In this insightful conversation, Michael Rearden challenges the limitations of traditional education systems and underscores the importance of lifelong learning and self-education. While schools lay the foundation for basic knowledge, they often fall short in preparing students with the real-world skills necessary for success. 

He advocates for taking control of your education through self-help resources, continuous learning, and understanding your learning style. He highlights the need for practical skills like financial literacy and critical thinking—skills often overlooked in standard curricula.

If you're ready to take your education into you...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, Michael Rearden sits down with Dr. John N Chanaca, a seasoned educator, counselor, and author, to explore the art of parenting and character development. Dr. Chanaca brings over 40 years of experience to the table, sharing his insights on how family dynamics, technology's impact on education, and long-term parenting strategies can help children grow into resilient, successful individuals.

Through the lens of Power Parenting, Dr. Chanaca discusses the importance of cultural perspectives, respect for teachers, and the Super Student Program, which empowers parents to become active participants in...

In this reflective solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden explores the fragility of life, the importance of leaving a legacy, and how grief can shape our lives. He encourages listeners to embrace a mindset shift that allows us to live intentionally, make meaningful choices, and plan for a future that aligns with our values.

Drawing from personal anecdotes, Michael highlights how grief and loss can lead to growth, urging us to take action and make a lasting impact. If you're ready to transform your approach to life’s unpredictability, live more fu...

In this introspective solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden guides listeners through the journey of living a fulfilling life by examining the roles of personal growth, meaningful relationships, and intentionality. He reflects on the evolution of goals over time and how external changes often reshape internal aspirations.

He also takes a deep dive into the past six months, offering a framework for mid-year reflection and self-assessment. With honesty and motivation, he urges listeners to realign with their purpose, set clear intentions, and hold themselves accountable for future success.

Whether you're seeking to...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden welcomes Sig Muller, founder of Be the World’s Best, to discuss motivation, transformation, and finding purpose after life’s wake-up calls.

Sig shares his powerful survival story—having died for over 8 minutes after a sudden cardiac arrest—and how it led him to reevaluate his life’s priorities. He and Michael explore the role of hardship in personal growth, the importance of gratitude, and why embracing coaching, learning, and self-improvement is key to becoming your best self.

If you’re loo...

In this heartfelt solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden reflects on the evolving nature of family and the deep emotional bonds that define our lives.

From redefining what “home” truly means to navigating shifting family dynamics, Michael shares personal insights and lessons that encourage intentionality, presence, and appreciation for the people closest to us. He emphasizes that creating a family legacy requires deliberate effort, communication, and love—especially in a world of constant change.

If you’ve ever questioned the meaning of family or want to build st...

In this energizing solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden introduces the powerful concept of an Electric Mindset—a transformative approach to personal development rooted in intentionality, patience, and connection. He explains how becoming the spark in your life journey requires building a strong foundation, embracing the slow burn of lasting change, and plugging into the right community for support.

Michael shares insights on what it truly takes to evolve and grow: consistent action, aligned environments, and the courage to ignite transformation. This episode is a guide for anyone ready to tap in...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden welcomes Jason Lange, a men’s embodiment coach and facilitator, to explore the transformative power of men’s groups in fostering mental health, emotional resilience, and personal growth.

Jason discusses the historical isolation of men, the impact of societal expectations on masculinity, and why the "lone wolf" mentality is harmful to men’s well-being. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, redefining failure, and finding purpose through community support.

If you’re a man seeking authentic connection, emotional growth, and deeper c...

In this episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden welcomes Sean Kullman, educator, researcher, and co-author of Boys, A Rescue Plan, to discuss the urgent challenges boys face in education and society. Sean highlights the importance of kinesthetic learning, understanding brain sex differences, and adapting educational systems to better engage boys.

The conversation also explores the role of fathers, the stigma surrounding masculinity, and the necessity of mentorship and emotional regulation. Sean and Michael discuss how boys instinctively see themselves as protectors, why risk-taking is an essential trait, and how societal narratives can...

In this enlightening solo episode of Coaching In Session, host Michael Rearden unpacks the concept of a mindset intervention—an intentional pause to inspect your beliefs, habits, and direction in life. He explores how disconnection from goals often stems from misaligned routines and values and how self-inspection becomes the gateway to breakthrough.

Michael shares how daily awareness, aligned habits, and coaching support can be the exact tools you need to recalibrate your path and pursue your purpose with clarity. This episode is for anyone feeling stuck, off-track, or in need of a reset.

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