MindForce: Mental Fitness, Leadership & Life Stories

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Neuroscientist Dr. Rob Kelly shares his revolutionary approach to healing trauma through neuroscience-based coaching with a 97% success rate. He explains how childhood trauma creates neural pathways that drive addiction, depression, and self-sabotage, and offers practical techniques anyone can use to rewire their brain.

• Understanding addiction as a neurological condition affecting the hypothalamus, basal ganglia, and amygdala
• Alcohol addiction as a predisposition passed through generations via methylation pathways
• Why traditional therapy focusing only on substances rather than root causes often fails
• The difference between alcoholics (born with a p...

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Brian Heilig shares his powerful journey from the birth of his micro preemie son in Mexico to finding faith, purpose, and a mission to help others. His story reveals how crisis moments can transform our lives and lead us to deeper connections with God and community.

• Brian's son Grayson was born at exactly 26 weeks weighing only 1.6 pounds after his wife developed severe preeclampsia
• Being in a Mexican hospital with limited equipment and language barriers created enormous challenges for the family
• The NICU experience became Brian's defining faith...

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https://mindforcepodcast.buzzsprout.com

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Licensed therapist Solomon Richburg shares powerful insights on men's mental health, breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking support and setting healthy boundaries. We explore why healthy social connections are the foundation of mental wellness and how small steps can lead to profound change.

• Boundary setting is crucial yet challenging for men who often default to people-pleasing
• Creating solutions rather than just saying "no" can strengthen relationships while protecting your needs
• The "pull yourself up by bootstraps" mentality damages men's ability to process emotions and se...

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Sharon Riddle shares how adopting a stoic mindset has transformed her approach to entrepreneurship, parenting, and personal challenges, emphasizing the power of focusing only on what we can control.

• Transitioning to entrepreneurship after 9/11 due to economic uncertainty in the aerospace industry
• Developing marketing skills outside her comfort zone as a numbers-driven analyst
• Navigating real estate investment challenges during the 2008 housing crisis
• Finding opportunity in property fires through insurance-funded modernization
• Evolving from parent to accountability partner with her thriving adult daughter
• Creating meaningful memories instead of m...

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Uma Patil, holistic coach and childhood trauma healing expert, shares her journey from abandonment trauma to healing and how childhood experiences shape our adult behaviors and mental health.

• Trauma is subjective and personal—what traumatizes one person may not affect another
• Childhood trauma manifests in adulthood as people-pleasing, imposter syndrome, self-sabotage, or narcissistic traits
• Mental health stigma prevents many from seeking help, though awareness is growing
• Self-awareness through practices like journaling, yoga, and meditation helps recognize thought patterns
• Healing requires addressing mind, body and soul through...

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Anne Alexander-Seder shares her journey as an American actor who reinvented her career in Germany after following love abroad and taking a 16-year detour through voice-over work and motherhood. She reveals how asking one simple question launched her career and how organizing acting workshops became her pathway back to on-screen performance at age 47.

• Moved to Germany for love rather than career but managed to make both work
• Discovered the power of asking for help when a simple question led to voice-over opportunities
• Built a successful 15-year career...

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Dallas Collis shares his transformational journey from addiction and self-sabotage to radical responsibility, revealing how questioning his life story led to profound liberation. Through powerful insights on trauma, identity, and present-moment awareness, he demonstrates how reimagining—rather than recovering—ourselves creates lasting change.

• Viewing our identities as stories we've constructed from past experiences
• How small "traumas" can accumulate into heavy emotional baggage we carry through life 
• The pivotal moment when the question "Show me yesterday" changed everything
• Breaking free from victim mentality and blame by taking radica...

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What happens when acting, singing, and writing talents converge into a single creative mission? Megan Murphy's journey provides a roadmap for anyone pursuing multiple creative passions.

From the moment fourth-grade Megan watched high schoolers perform "Guys and Dolls," she knew performing arts would shape her life. Now, with over 20 years of professional acting experience, she's channeled her diverse talents into "The Aunt Nay Nay Show" – a wholesome YouTube variety program for children that's quickly gaining momentum.

Our conversation explores the fascinating interconnections between different art forms an...

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Olivia Rose, success and productivity coach for women with ADHD, shares her journey of discovering how connecting mind, body, and heart wisdom can transform lives and help break free from "Wonder Woman Syndrome."

• Creativity is a superpower for those with ADHD, allowing innovative problem-solving and thinking outside conventional boundaries
• Understanding ADHD beyond stereotypes – symptoms manifest differently across genders and individuals
• The body holds wisdom our minds often ignore – learning to listen can prevent burnout and illness
• "Wonder Woman Syndrome" in modern motherhood creates impossible standards of perfectio...

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Allie’s difficult yet inspiring journey navigating her diagnosis of Fanconi Anemia (FA) illuminates the power of resilience. Reflecting on self-love and acceptance, she shares how her experience shaped her life and led her to become a doula.

• A deeper understanding of Fanconi anemia and its implications 
• The transformative power of self-love and acceptance 
• Writing as a tool for reflection and discovery 
• The importance of community support in healing 
• Allie's journey to becoming a birth and death doula 
• Building a business amid challenges and uncertainties <...

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Today, we explore the transformative power of setting boundaries and the journey to self-discovery with self-love coach Nadia Hagen. Our discussion emphasizes personal growth, the courage to advocate for oneself, and why saying no can be an empowering act.

- Nadia shares her journey as a self-love coach 
- The importance of recognizing and asserting personal boundaries 
- Real-life stories illustrating courage in boundary-setting 
- Strategies for managing the inner critic and self-doubt 
- How identifying core personal values aids in decision-making 
- Navig...

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In this conversation, Nathan Francis uncovers the journey towards health, spirit, and personal development, emphasizing the importance of unlocking one’s potential for a happier life. The episode provides deep insights into how early influences shape our habits and the power of mindfulness in overcoming challenges.

• Nathan's transformative life experiences 
• Discussing the impact of societal influences on personal choices 
• The importance of mindfulness and meditation 
• Daily habits that promote health and well-being 
• Inspiring success stories of personal transformation 
• Engaging youth through open conversations 
• The interconne...

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This episode explores practical strategies for transforming travel businesses through effective marketing, self-mastery, and innovation in response to a changing industry landscape. Esther Akin-Sola shares her insights on the importance of authentic connections and adaptability, emphasizing that personal growth is essential for attracting clients and ensuring long-term success.

• Discover the difference between coaching and mentorship 
• Learn creative sales tactics that make a difference 
• Insights into successful marketing strategies for travel 
• Embrace adaptability in an ever-changing market 
• Understand inbound sales techniques to attract clients 
• The critical impo...

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Nate Scheer converses with Risa August about shifting perspectives to transform limiting beliefs, shared experiences with the healthcare system, and embracing authenticity through travel and adventure. The episode inspires listeners to challenge their own mindsets and advocate for their health, urging them to live fully and authentically despite life's obstacles. 

• Personal journey through health challenges 
• Importance of self-advocacy in healthcare 
• Reflecting on identity and authenticity 
• Travel as a means of transformation 
• Embracing resilience and gratitude in difficulties 
• Shifting perspectives to overcome limiting beliefs 
• Enc...

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This enlightening conversation centers on the importance of building a strong relationship with oneself as a foundation for personal and financial authenticity. Becca Stackhouse-Morson shares valuable insights on self-love practices like journaling, financial management strategies, and the necessity of navigating life changes while remaining true to oneself. 

• Understanding the significance of building self-relationship 
• Utilizing journaling as a tool for self-reflection and emotional health 
• Exploring financial literacy through the engaging "Waffle Theory" 
• Learning from personal financial setbacks and their subsequent lessons 
• Embracing change as a catalyst for se...

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Mid-career transition presents a profound opportunity for individuals seeking to redefine their professional paths, often driven by the recognition that life is both lengthy and filled with possibilities. John Tarnoff emphasizes the importance of embracing fear and overcoming limiting beliefs while sharing practical advice on leveraging connections to pave the way toward a more fulfilling career.

• Understanding the significance of mid-career transitions 
• Challenging preconceived notions of job satisfaction and fulfillment 
• Overcoming fear and addressing limiting beliefs 
• The necessity of networking in discovering new opportunities 
• Discovering pe...

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Our conversation with Joshua Nolan delves into regenerative agriculture, the benefits of low-carb diets, and the importance of cooking with whole foods. We explore how these elements contribute to a healthier lifestyle and environment while providing practical tips and insights for listeners to improve their own dietary choices.

• Regenerative agriculture improves soil health and biodiversity 
• Low-carb eating helps stabilize energy and reduce health issues 
• Whole foods provide essential nutrients and avoid harmful additives 
• Transitioning to healthier diets can be both budget-friendly and simple 
• Personal stories highli...

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Velma Gentzsch, a.k.a. Mama Mabel, shares how embracing video games helped her connect with her son. Through gaming, they built resilience, improved their communication, and deepened their bond, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and understanding.

• Connecting with kids through their interests 
• The transformative power of video games in parenting 
• Importance of "special time" for emotional connection 
• Navigating screen time and digital boundaries 
• Building resilience and patience through gaming experiences 
• Encouraging children to express their struggles and triumphs 
• Discovering joy in gaming as a famil...

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This podcast episode discusses effective leadership through the insights of John Dragon Teichert, a retired Air Force officer. Teichert emphasizes the importance of small acts of kindness, genuine care for team members, and fostering an innovative environment as essential qualities of impactful leadership. 

• Leadership shapes communities and nations 
• Small, meaningful gestures create lasting impact 
• Balancing personal and professional commitments enhances harmony 
• Genuine care fosters trust and communication 
• Encouraging a culture of innovation promotes creativity 
• Leaders can inspire revival through community engagement 
• Prioritizing needs aligns personal...

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What if mental fitness was as integral to your daily routine as brushing your teeth? Join us on Mindforce as we explore this intriguing concept with PJ Aubrey, the dynamic host of "Survivor's Guide to Hell." Together, we unravel PJ's compelling journey into mental health advocacy, influenced by the tumultuous events of 2020 and his experiences with trauma during his Mormon mission. Our conversation offers an introspective look at how mental health awareness has transformed over the years, shifting from stigma to a culture of open dialogue. PJ's insights remind us...

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After years of navigating life undiagnosed with ADHD and autism, Erik Taylor, a seasoned computer technician and administrative professional, finally received the answers he needed. Join us as Eric uncovers the transformative power of understanding one's neurodiversity, not only in his professional endeavors but also in shaping his recent marriage. Inspired by a personal loss, I share my motivation for starting this podcast—a journey to break the stigma surrounding mental health and foster genuine connections through open conversations about mental fitness.

Explore the intricacies of neurodiversity and me...

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What if achieving the perfect work-life balance is just a myth? Join us as we challenge conventional wisdom and propose the idea of a "work-life average," where flexibility and communication take center stage. Dive into our lively debate on the self-help industry, where Chris questions its repetitive nature while Greg argues for the diversity of perspectives. We also share our personal journeys, from navigating relocations to reintegrating post-deployment, adding a relatable touch to our broader exploration of life's unpredictable challenges.

Imagine forming your own advisory council featuring legends...

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Imagine navigating the turbulent waters of life-threatening health crises and emerging with a renewed sense of purpose and leadership. That's my story, which I share alongside Jack Glennon, the inspiring founder of Glennon Pete Coaching, who has faced his own set of formidable challenges. In our candid conversation, we explore themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and how our personal journeys have shaped our professional identities. Jack opens up about his experiences, revealing how they catalyzed his commitment to authentic leadership and career coaching, while I reflect on my...

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Can a coffee break save a life? This episode of MindForce features Demetrius Pagan, an inspiring suicide prevention trainer who brings nearly two decades of military experience to the table. We explore how simple acts of connection, like sharing a cup of coffee, can play a crucial role in fostering supportive environments for mental health. Demetrius shares his effective approach of utilizing personal stories to cultivate empathy and rapport, shedding light on the ongoing challenge of breaking barriers in the military's results-driven culture.

I reflect on my own...

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What if your greatest struggles could become your superpowers? Join us on MindForce as we explore this transformative idea with our inspiring guest, Troy Fontana. Troy shares his journey through life's toughest challenges—business collapse, divorce, and a harrowing near-death experience—and how they forged a path to self-discovery and resilience. As your host, I also dive into my own creative journey, finding unexpected joy in the podcasting process despite initial skepticism. Together, Troy and I reflect on balancing structured work with creative freedom, offering insights that can guide personal grow...

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What does it take to rise from the depths of addiction and homelessness to a place of healing and purpose? Join us on Mindforce as Mariah Pettry candidly shares her story of resilience and transformation, marking seven years of sobriety from heroin. Mariah offers powerful insights into the importance of healthy relationships, both in her recovery journey and in her aspirations to become a therapist. Through her eyes, we explore the harsh realities of addiction, the impact of trauma, and the unwavering courage required to build a new life.
<...

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Gregory Taylor, co-host of the popular podcast Seat 41A, joins us for an enlightening conversation about the twists and turns of life, and how his Air Force career catapulted him into the world of personal development and mentoring. We reminisce about unexpected career paths, such as my pivot from aspiring pilot to podcaster, and reflect on the definitions of success, drawing parallels to Vincent van Gogh’s fame that bloomed after his time. This episode sets a thoughtful stage for a deep dive into stoicism, a philosophy often misunderstood, and it...

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How can a career in fitness transform not only your body but also your mind? Join us as we explore this fascinating question with Joe Rodonis, a fitness coach who made the bold move from a successful career in healthcare sales to follow his passion for human movement. Joe shares his inspiring journey, deep insights into preventative health, and how physical fitness can significantly elevate mental well-being. Discover how consistent physical and mental training can build resilience and leadership skills in personal relationships, and why earning resilience through dedication is...

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What if we could break the silence and stigma surrounding mental health in the military? Join us in this deeply moving episode as we bring to light the critical issue of suicide awareness, particularly within the military community. I had the privilege of sitting down with Clifton Hanson, our wing chaplain, who brings a wealth of experience and insight into suicidal ideations and moral injury. Despite my own health challenges, this conversation was too important to miss. We discussed how psychological diagnoses are catching up with concepts long addressed by...

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What if you could transform from a rebellious young adult to a respected leader in the Air Force? Meet Jason Lookabaugh, the Enlisted Optimist, who shares his transformative journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. From his early struggles with authority in Dayton, Ohio, to finding a mentor who shifted his perspective on leadership, Jason's story is a testament to the power of resilience and empathy. Christopher Yannion, the mentor who taught him the importance of being good with people, played a pivotal role in shaping Jason’s le...

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Is your leadership style truly effective, or are you unknowingly leaving a trail of disengaged and discontent staff? Discover the eye-opening journey of retired Army officer Dan McKay as he transitions from a self-focused mindset to an us-focused approach, reshaping his leadership and the well-being of his subordinates. Through candid examples from his military career, Dan reveals the pitfalls of a self-centered leadership style and challenges us to prioritize organizational achievements over individual accolades, especially in higher leadership roles.

In this episode of Mindforce, we tackle the emotional...

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What happens when you discover a life-altering diagnosis in your late 30s? In this episode of MindForce, we hear from Courtney Carini, an inspiring ADHD advocate and coach, who learned she had ADHD at the age of 38. Courtney shares her heartfelt journey from being mislabeled as lazy and scatterbrained to finding empowerment through proper diagnosis and treatment. With a background in musical theater and comedy, she has transformed her experiences into engaging and educational content, raising awareness and breaking down misconceptions about ADHD.

We challenge the common misunderstandings...

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Unlock the secrets of resilient leadership as we sit down with a distinguished military veteran who has dedicated 25 years to serving his country. In this thought-provoking episode, we explore his remarkable journey from a military brat to a pivotal role as Command Chief in Japan during the COVID-19 crisis. Our guest shares how showcasing the human side of leadership through digital media has been vital in connecting with personnel and their families, despite the constraints of time and responsibility. Discover the challenges and triumphs that come with such a demanding...

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Ever wondered how a decorated Air Force Chief adapts to civilian life? Join us as Hope Skibitsky, a retired Air Force Chief, takes us on her compelling journey from military service to civilian success. From starting with just a toothbrush to achieving high-ranking positions, Hope’s story is one you won't want to miss. She shares invaluable insights on the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and the adaptability required for career transitions, both in the military and civilian worlds.

Hope also opens up about the often-overlooked responsibilities within mi...

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Ever wondered how authentic communication can transform your life? Join us in this enlightening episode of Mindforce, featuring Dr. Fred Moss, a life optimization specialist who has turned his chaotic childhood experiences into a mission for authentic living. Dr. Fred takes us on a journey through his early passion for communication, the challenges he faced within the educational system, and his impactful work with adolescent boys in a state mental health facility. Discover his critical views on psychiatry’s shift with Prozac and the concept of chemical imbalances, and learn ho...

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What happens when you combine two decades of military leadership with the nuanced world of healthcare administration? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Colonel Gloria Walski, an Air Force officer whose career spans supporting the United States Space Force, handling disaster response, and homeland defense planning. Gloria dives into her extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in leadership roles. She also shares her favorite influential books, such as John Maxwell’s “21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership.” She discusses the pivotal role of self-love and self-care in shapin...

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Embark on a mission through the tough terrains of mental and physical survival with SERE specialists Micah Gillette and Steven Drakes. Their tales of resilience in the face of adversity guarantee to equip you with an arsenal of strategies for life's most demanding battles. From their gripping narratives of military Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape training to their seamless transition into civilian life, these veterans bestow upon us their hard-earned wisdom. Discover the apps and podcasts they swear by, and get a glimpse into the rigorous seasonal training that shapes...

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Embark on a profound journey with me, Nate Scheer, as I sit down with Josh White from the HeroFront Podcast, whose life lessons from a 19-year Air Force career have blossomed into a beacon of humor, motivation, and transparency. Reflecting on the power of genuine stories, we unearth the soul-stirring narratives that lurk behind the curtain of podcasting—a world where personal triumphs and tribulations eclipse the superficial glamor of celebrity.

Cue the nostalgia as we rewind to the heyday of Halo 3, where Josh and I bonded over th...