Live Stoked, Lead Stoked

For my first guest of season two, I’m welcoming back my friend Matthew Spence. A lot has changed since the last time he joined me on the podcast.

Over the past two years, Matthew has completed three more 29029 Everesting challenges, published his first book, Lessons From the Wall: 15 Things I Learned About Leadership and Life By Doing Something Really Hard, delivered a TEDx talk, stepped further into entrepreneurship, and expanded his work as a speaker and leadership consultant.

But this conversation is about more than everything Matthew has accomplished. We talk about what it ta...

This episode tackles a difficult subject, but it’s one I believe we need to be talking about.

Using the recent Cornell 7 case as a starting point, I’m looking beyond the question of why people don’t simply “speak up” when they see something wrong. While speaking up matters, decades of research and experience across healthcare, emergency services, corporate environments, and other systems tell us there are very real human and cultural reasons people stay silent.

I share some of my own experiences with safety culture and what I’ve learned about creating environments where people...

After more than a year away, I’m back behind the mic and a lot has happened.

In this episode, I’m sharing what led me to step away from the podcast and why I now see that time as a “fallow season”, a period when life required me to get quieter, slow down, and focus inward. I’ll take you through some of what that season held, including navigating a difficult work experience, caring for and losing my mom, an unexpected move, health concerns, and the impact of perimenopause and stress along the way.

That seaso...

Welcome to year TWO of the podcast! In this episode, I explore what’s in store for the Live Stoked | Lead Stoked podcast for 2025, and embrace a new video format for the podcast as the episodes will be on YouTube as well. This transition, driven by my desire for authenticity, aims to deepen our conversations through visuals as so many of my guests have been amazing at storytelling. Throughout the year, I will focus on themes of empowerment and the challenges of caregiving, especially in dealing with my mother's Alzheimer's. Additionally, I will address the often-taboo subjects of physical we...

In this episode, I chat with Nick Loise, a seasoned sales leader, about the idea of “living stoked” by seizing life's opportunities. We talk about his personal journey, including his battle with prostate cancer, which reshaped his priorities. Nick shares insights on fostering inclusivity in the corporate world, challenging sales stereotypes through empathy and authenticity. We explore the importance of work-life balance and how technology, particularly AI, is transforming sales strategies.

Meet Nick:

Nicholas Loise has been a salesperson, sales leader, successful entrepreneur, marketing and sales executive, Presidents Club winner, speaker, and author. His third entr...

In this episode, I chat with creative coach Lisa Hopkins, whose journey highlights living intentionally and embracing personal agency. We redefine "being stoked" as a deeper engagement with life and true joy, exploring Lisa's evolution from a shy girl in Canada to an influential figure in dance and coaching. Our discussion focuses on the transformative nature of coaching, the importance of authenticity, and cultivating creative possibilities for everyone, not just artists. We also touch on diverse inspirations for personal growth and the significance of being present to find joy amid challenges. This conversation encapsulates the essence of living stoked—ch...

Today I have leadership development coach, Kristeen Barth on the podcast to talk about living authentically and empowered. We explore the balance between professional expectations and personal fulfillment, emphasizing agency and self-discovery. Kristeen shares her journey from a corporate IT career to coaching, explaining the key moments and the influence of mentors on her path. Her coaching philosophy centers on helping clients find their inner voice while navigating societal pressures. We also discuss the significance of community, curiosity, and personal identity in defining success, particularly for women in male-dominated fields. Kristeen's reflections inspire listeners to embrace their own journeys...

In this episode I have an amazing conversation with Bibigi Haile, a dedicated coach and advocate for women’s visibility. We explore the concept of living through choice and personal agency, as Bibigi recounts her journey towards embracing freedom, shaped by her diverse cultural background and supportive upbringing. Our discussion highlights the significance of creating spaces for women to express themselves authentically, highlighting the connection between visibility and personal fulfillment. 

Meet Bibigi:

Bibigi Haile founded The Beauvoir Group to give women the license to be Unapologetically Visible, make bold moves, and stop apologizing for what the...

In this final 29029 Trail series episode, I explore the contrasting approaches to life: viewing it through the lens of expectations versus embracing it as a series of personal choices. Drawing from my own experiences, particularly the challenges faced during the 29029 ultra-endurance event, I reflect on the lessons learned about growth, agency, and the importance of community. I discuss how shifting my perspective on struggles can transform them into valuable learning experiences rather than obstacles. As I look forward to future challenges and the excitement of new goals, I invite you to embark on your own journeys, celebrate personal growth...

Today my guest, Courtney O’Brien and I are diving deep into the complex world of work-life balance, personal fulfillment, and the empowering journey toward authentic living. Courtney has recently transitioned from a 22-year career in beverage marketing to embarking on an entrepreneurial path with her new venture, The Outlier Initiative.

In this episode, we explore the often-unappreciated toil that comes from acting based on perceived responsibilities, as Courtney reflects on her past experiences. We'll look at distinguishing tasks that align with personal values versus organizational demands, touching on the grieving process that leaving a job can fe...

Today we have a truly inspiring episode because we are joined by Caterina, host of the "Life Around the World" podcast and an enthusiastic advocate for DEI. Caterina's journey has taken her through six diverse countries, from the UK and Netherlands to Mexico, Swaziland, Angola, and back to her home in Italy. Together, we'll talk about her rich experiences and insights on integrating diverse cultures, leading with curiosity, and fostering authentic living. We'll explore her transformative work with NGOs, her passion for creating inclusive spaces in the workplace, and the challenges and rewards of living a globally conscious life...

Welcome to part four of my 29029 series (the first three are linked below). In this episode, I share my deep thoughts on the journey during the 29029 event, where I pushed myself to complete three marathons over three days. I reflect on the dual perspectives we can adopt in life—one of rigid expectations versus one of embracing growth through our choices. My personal struggles during the event show the unique nature of challenges and the importance of resilience. I candidly discuss a pivotal moment of doubt at mile 17, where I learned that quitting not only affects how I view my...

In this episode, I have a special guest, Matthew Spence, on for an engaging conversation about balance, personal growth, and pursuing one's passions. Join us as we unpack the Blessing White model for employee engagement, discuss the thrill of participating in the 29029 Everesting Challenge, and explore how setting audacious goals can transform both business and life. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with authentic stories, practical advice, and a reminder to live and lead "stoked." 

Meet Matthew:

Matthew is a strategic, creative and supportive Executive Coach and Consultant who has dedicated his life and career t...

Well, I did it!! In today's episode, I’m walking you through the 29029 Everesting Trail event that recently took place in Tahoe. This was no ordinary challenge; it was an 80-ish mile trek to Everest base camp, packed with high-impact lessons and unforgettable experiences. If you've been following the past two episodes, you know how this journey began, and today, we're wrapping it up with all the highs, lows, and everything in between. I’ll recount the camaraderie, physical trials, and mental battles, as well as the incredible support from the 29029 community that helped us push through. Whether you're an a...

Today we’re diving deep into my newest challenge— the 29029 Trail event in North Star, Tahoe. If you’ve been following my journey, you’ll know this is an endurance test like no other. We flew high at Whistler with the mountain event, and now, it’s all about pacing ourselves through 3 grueling trail marathons over 3 days.

I cover everything from the highs and lows of my training regimen, to the community spirit that pushes us forward, and the wisdom gained along the way. I'll also touch on my personal battles with injury and self-doubt, and the strategies...

Today we dive into a topic that has been brewing for some time—29029 Everesting. After hinting at it in past episodes, it's finally time to explore what this epic challenge is all about and why my husband Matt and I decided to take it on for our 50th birthdays. We'll discuss the journey that led us to this incredible feat, the rigorous training involved, and the life-changing experiences we gained along the way. From the initial spark of inspiration to the supportive community and transformational lessons learned, this episode unpacks the full experience of climbing 29,029 feet. Whether you're looking fo...

Today I have invited my guest, Toby Mildon, to discuss the critical yet often overlooked aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), especially regarding disability.

In this episode, Toby shares personal experiences, from misconceptions about his relationship to navigating discrimination and discovering his identity. We discuss the differing emphases on race, gender, and disability in DEI initiatives in the US and UK, stressing the need for genuine understanding and prioritization in organizations.

We'll also explore societal portrayals of disability, the concept of "inspiration porn," and the role of empathy in leadership. Toby also introduces the...

In today's episode, I share an unexpectedly profound lesson from a simple morning walk and my time spent with a whale. Yes, you read that right! A whale has mysteriously been enjoying life in the local harbor close to our home. And as I find myself skipping my rigorous training session to spend time observing my new aquatic friend, this encounter sparks reflections on the importance of slowing down, tuning into natural rhythms, and observing life with mindful presence. This time helped me create parallels between my serene observations with the work I do in coaching, and how taking...

Today, we have an incredible guest, Dr. Christiane Schroeter, the vibrant owner of Hello Happy Nest and an expert in health, happiness, and productivity.

Christiane takes us through her fascinating journey from academia to professional life, sharing her transformative experiences in transitioning from corporate heels to sneakers, and how authenticity plays a crucial role in her daily life. We dive into the cultural contrasts between Germany and the U.S., and discover how the move ignited her true, enthusiastic self.

As we discuss the pressures of entrepreneurship, Dr. Schroeter offers invaluable insight into maintaining a...

I am so excited to introduce you to not only my guest for this episode, but someone I have known for a very long time.  In this episode, we talk with Cynthia Loy Darst, who just happens to be a coach of mine. We explore her journey from acting to coaching, the importance of creating and maintaining community, and the balance between personal and professional relationships. 

Meet Cynthia:

Cynthia Loy Darst, CPCC, ORSCC, MCC, is internationally known as a pioneer in the world of coaching. One of the first eight people to gain the designation of...

As I reflect on our recent 29029 trail event and the grueling preparation leading up to it, I'll be sharing stories from our simulation weekends, the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the importance of adjusting our mindset and techniques to achieve monumental goals. From battling physical discomfort to emotionally accepting the potential outcomes, this episode is about embracing reality, staying grounded, and learning from every step of the journey. Join me as we explore how to turn potential setbacks into growth opportunities and push beyond our perceived limits.

Visit the Show Notes:

Today we have a truly enlightening conversation with the incredible Dr. Stephanie Kirkland, who joins us for a second time to talk leadership and team dynamics.

In this episode, Dr. Stephanie takes us deep into the power of language and understanding in fostering team dynamics. We explore how respecting and leveraging different communication styles and cultural backgrounds can drive creativity, innovation, and problem-solving within teams. We also dive into the importance of acknowledging and celebrating racial and gender contributions in professional settings, and how creating a safe and open environment for these discussions can transform team interactions.<...

Hello, everyone! Welcome to another episode of the Live Stoked, Lead Stoked podcast. Today’s episode is all about recognizing and celebrating our growth, even through the tough times. It’s been a journey since our last chat, and I'm thrilled to share some exciting updates with you. I dive deep into the challenges and breakthroughs of the past months. From the grief of losing our boy cat and the ensuing emotional fog, to the resilience in embracing new opportunities and pushing personal boundaries. We’ll explore the idea that what might look like failure is actually a phase of gro...

Today we are joined by  Lisa Dare. In this episode, we delve deep into the hunger for personal growth, balancing head and heart development, and the evolving acceptance of coaching cultures. 

Lisa shares her heartfelt experiences navigating relationships, from caring for a parent with Alzheimer's to resolving unfinished emotional business with loved ones. Together, we reflect on the importance of recommitting to relationships, embracing complexity, and living an authentic and fully integrated life. 

Join us as Lisa offers her wisdom on embracing failure, integrating art and science in coaching, and the fulfilling journey from head to...

Meet Wendy Petties, also known as the Relationships Whisperer, a dynamic Psychologist, MBA, and Sex Educator who uses this eclectic trio of skills to guide women toward financial empowerment and personal fulfillment.

Wendy's story is a testament to resilience. From filing bankruptcy to achieving millionaire status in record time, she's transformed her life by increasing the pleasure in her relationships—with herself, others, and money.

Enter the Sexy Money® System, Wendy's brainchild, and the roadmap to her financial turnaround. It's the magic formula she used to turn her financial struggles into abundance. And guess what? You...

Today, I’m thrilled to have Nicole Smith join us to delve into the depths of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on our lives, relationships, and leadership. Nicole, a seasoned expert in emotional brilliance, runs a successful leadership development and coaching practice. Together, we explore the importance of empathy, understanding diverse perspectives, and managing emotions in real-time.

Meet Nicole:

Nicole F. Smith, M.Ed. is the driving force behind JMS Creative Leadership Solutions, offering a transformative approach to emotional intelligence coaching and speaking. As a dynamic keynote speaker and facilitator, she captivates audiences with ma...

From her start as a derivatives trader during the 2008 economic meltdown to becoming a lawyer, and now diving into the world of startups, Ruchi Desai's career is defined by a passion for building things that make a tangible impact. She talks about the importance of maintaining humility, asking questions, and the thrill of exploring complex models and frameworks.

Meet Ruchi:

Ruchi is a proven zero to one founder. She is co-founder of EIGHT Brewing Co., a better-for-you light lager made with 100% organic grains. Ruchi has extensive experience scaling operations and teams at various e-commerce and...

Today’s episode delves into a deeply personal and emotional experience that might be triggering for some listeners—grief. Following the recent loss of my beloved cat, I found myself questioning many aspects of my stoked life, and today, I want to share that journey with you. How we can stay stoked through tough times.

We often explore themes of living authentically and fully on this podcast, but it's essential to acknowledge that such a life also involves navigating challenges and losses. This past week has been one of those tough times for me, and I believe it’s...

In today's episode, I delve into the profound yet often overlooked aspects of living intentionally. Sparked by a poignant story about a man's last words, "it goes fast," I want to reflect on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing every moment. Drawing from my recent trip to Montana with a lifelong friend and her mother, I explore the significance of deep, long-term relationships and the joy found in both grand and mundane experiences. From savoring morning coffee and engaging in "purr therapy" with my cat, to contemplating the metaphoric balance of filling and draining one's...

I'm terribly excited about the guests we have today. I have my brother, Matt Bettman, and my husband, Matt Shivers. They are the founders and builders of All Good Equipment trailers. This also happens to be my side hustle because it is a family business. This episode is all about the path we take in our lives, and the ‘lily pads’ we jump to get where we are today. Both Matts have a very different background that brought them together to create the business they have today.

In this episode we share:

Today we're diving into a variety of deep and personal topics that I've been exploring recently. This episode, I'm riffing off-the-cuff on several thoughts that span from the impact of hormonal changes on relationships and the often-overlooked nuances of menopause, to how we navigate change, both in our personal lives and within organizational structures. Additionally, I'll be sharing my journey of rediscovering a love for water and surfing as I embark on a new adventure near the California coast. Tune in as I weave these topics together, discussing the importance of agency, grace, and the beauty of embracing life's...

When we hear that it would be hard for us to be replaced, oftentimes we take it as a compliment. Yes it feels good to know that we are able to contribute, but have you ever paused to think about whether or not you are so indispensable that your management won’t give you up? Or that you are viewed as someone different in your role, and are unable to get the raise and/or promotion you deserve because it would take more than one person to replace you? That is what we are discussing in this episode. Sometimes we...

I’m back with some of my deep thoughts. As I reflect from the serene Northern California coast, I'm excited to share my journey towards embracing and becoming more of my true self. In this episode, we'll explore my experiences with endurance challenges like the 29029 Everesting event at Whistler, the highs and lows of my athletic pursuits, and the lessons learned from committing to my training plan. We’ll discuss how all these elements contribute to not just achieving goals, but more importantly, understanding and accepting who we are at our core. Whether it’s through physical endurance or the en...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Live Stoked Lead Stoked. Today we’re diving deep into a story of transformation and resilience with our incredible guest, Diane Schroeder. From battalion chief to harnessing the power of personal coaching, Diane opens up about her journey of living authentically and aligning with her core values of joy, connection, and authenticity. We discuss the tough transitions, the emotional toll of emergency service work, and the crucial turning points that led both Diane and myself to pivot away from firefighting towards new paths that honor our true selves. 

Meet Diane:

T...

Welcome to another episode of "Live Stoked Lead Stoked!" Join us as we welcome Dan Trommater, a magician and transformational speaker who uses magic to shift perspectives and challenge assumptions. Today, Dan shares his journey from a Michigan farm to mastering magic in Los Angeles, shedding light on how magic has not only entertained but also helped him navigate personal challenges. Prepare to be inspired by tales of wonder and transformation as Dan encourages us to see the magic in everyday life and embrace new possibilities. 

Meet Dan:

Dan Trommater empowers his clients to challenge a...

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my guest, Michelle Moffitt, to have a profound conversation about breaking free from toxic systems and embracing authentic living. Michelle divulges her personal struggle of shedding the constraining layers imprinted by over two decades in a repressive church environment and the subsequent revelation of her true self. The episode covers her journey from a progressive childhood to a crisis of faith and identity, accentuating the severe challenges she faced, including experiencing abuse within the church and marriage.

Meet Michelle:

Michelle shakes up the status quo and debunks...

In this episode, we're talking about the often overlooked difference between change and transition. We're drawing on the wisdom of William Bridges, whose work has been a guiding light for over a decade, especially during times of organizational upheaval like acquisition or restructuring, and equally relevant in our personal lives.

As we navigate the terrain of fresh starts and letting go, whether it's adapting to new work routines, moving to a new home, or even grieving, we'll explore the three stages of transition according to Bridges: letting go, the neutral zone, and new beginnings. Join me as...

In today's episode, I’m thrilled to have my guest, Nicole Barham, the brain behind the '5 Minute Bookkeeper,' an ingenious approach to simplifying your financial life. Nicole and I unpack the emotional load of finances, share our personal financial struggles, and discuss the path to a more user-friendly approach to bookkeeping.

We explore how embracing simplicity in financial tools like Nicole's '5 Minute Bookkeeper' can lead to a more joy-filled and less stressful life. 

Meet Nicole:

Nicole Barham is the founder and CEO of Design Your Wealth and creator of 5 Minute Boo...

In this episode, I have my guest (and cousin), Jess Ames Pappalardo, on to have a heartfelt dialogue about pursuing one's passion and building community through language and cultural exchange. Jess details her journey with INT’L CAFE, a movement that hosts language exchange events to facilitate cultural understanding across diverse linguistic communities. Beginning with creative events in Chicago and evolving through many forms, INT’L CAFE has grown to include a range of languages and celebrates multiculturalism without relying on traditional symbols like flags. As we discuss our respective experiences with entrepreneurship and authenticity, this episode encapsulates themes of h...

In this episode, Sarah sat down with Dr. Stephanie Kirkland to explore the concept of 'living stoked,' which Dr. Kirkland describes as leading an identity-centered life, where one's interactions with the world are shaped by personal agency and choice. The conversation tackles the societal expectations placed on women, the importance of prioritizing one's personal identity, and the need for self-awareness. Dr. Kirkland also discusses her upcoming book, 'Identity: 12 Lessons on Unapologetically Owning Your Uniqueness in a World that Doesn't See it as Normal,' emphasizing the significance of being true to oneself and understanding one's beliefs and values...