Aww Shift

"Welcome to the 'Aww Shift' podcast, where we dive deep into the art of transformation and growth with your host, Anthony Trucks! Today, we have an extraordinary guest, Toni Marinucci, a Registered Dietitian and seasoned lifestyle blogger with a profound commitment to enhancing lives through health and happiness. In this captivating episode, Anthony and Toni explore the secrets of building both a remarkable body and a thriving business. Drawing on her expertise as a Master's Degree holder in Nutrition, Toni shares invaluable insights on achieving a harmonious balance between personal health and professional success. Get ready to shift your perspective and unleash your potential in this power-packed conversation!" [2:50] Why should I listen to you?  I consider myself more of a listener. My strength lies in connecting with people, regardless of their age, gender, or how they identify themselves. I take pride in seeing individuals for who they are at their core, and I'm dedicated to helping them believe in themselves. If you seek someone to talk to who will hear you, validate your feelings, and understand your perspective, I'm here to elevate you to the next level. I can provide a fresh perspective, clear away any foggy thoughts, and offer clarity and peace of mind.  [6:20] Do you mind sharing some of your experiences?  I used to feel ashamed of loving so many things, questioning whether it meant I couldn't commit to one specific path. But it's not about being afraid of going all-in; it's about the genuine passion I have for each of my interests. For a decade, I've honed my craft as a registered dietitian, empowering and guiding women to make peace with food and embrace a healthy lifestyle. Mastering my own relationship with food led to a shift in priorities. It's not about appearance or weight loss; it's about feeling good and taking care of myself. My world opened up, and I still love coaching and real estate. I'm now helping other dietitians grow their online practices too. I believe in teaching, inspiring, and serving. We don't need to be confined to one identity, and it's okay to explore other passions. However, it's essential to avoid just dabbling; I am fully committed to all my endeavors, even if it gets exhausting. [13:20] What are the things you are currently putting your energy into?  I've realized that while I have many aspirations and interests, I need to ensure that my nutrition business is well-established and that our clients feel fully supported. That's been my main focus, making sure everyone in our program is thriving and satisfied. On a deeper level, I've been exploring personal development through podcasts and motivational speakers like Trent Shelton, whom I admire greatly. I aspire to speak on big stages and expand my horizons. I've been contemplating what that would look like and how I could turn it into my primary source of income to enable me to pursue other ventures. To achieve this, I've been tapping into the personal development space more deeply, aiming to become the best version of myself.  [16:30] What led you to the path of being a dietitian in the first place?  Growing up, I faced weight-related teasing that tied my self-worth to appearance. The 1990s media exacerbated this issue with fat-shaming and praise for extreme weight loss. My grandmother's comments further deepened this belief. Throughout my teenage years, I struggled with disordered eating patterns, restrictions, overexercising, and bingeing. However, I learned that restriction wasn't the answer and shifted my focus to how food made me feel, leading to balanced eating habits. This revelation sparked numerous shifts and breakthrough moments. My passion for nutrition led me to become a dietitian, but I unknowingly developed orthorexia, driven by societal praise for healthier habits in a bigger body. Realizing the need to heal myself to help others, I pursued a master's in nutrition. Tips with Tony, my blog turned business, began during college, demonstrating that success comes with perseverance and hard work. [24:25] How can you make people who feel less about themselves listen to you, and what aspects should they concentrate on to move past that situation? The first thing I want to mention is the importance of understanding what you just shared. Often, people find it easier to avoid discomfort, which motivates them to make changes. When we feel out of control around food or dislike our bodies, it drives us to do something about it. There's a fear that accepting our current state will cause us to lose motivation, as we're used to relying on external factors to get going. In reality, motivation needs to come from within. It's not just about feeling motivated, it's about making choices every day. We should focus on how we feel and learn that we don't need negative feelings to drive us. There will be times when we don't feel like doing something, but we have to take small steps forward. On the topic of body image and nutrition, it's a more profound conversation. For now, let's explore the philosophy behind it, which is incredibly beneficial. We could have another podcast focusing on developing habits rather than rigid meal plans.  [29:11] What is the importance of having the right people around you during this journey?  Everything revolves around your environment. I'm not saying people can't change without support, but it's really tough. Some of the women I work with have family members who contribute to their issues, yet they're still living with them or depending on them for various reasons. Having a strong support system is crucial, both physically and emotionally. If you can, limit your exposure to people who constantly talk about diets, criticize, or praise your body. Oh, and by the way, praising someone's weight loss without knowing their situation can be harmful too. You never know what someone's going through. So, it's better to avoid commenting on people's bodies altogether. Setting boundaries with others is important. You can kindly ask them not to talk about your body or change the topic when they bring it up.  [36:00] How long does it usually take for someone to start?  When we work with women, it's a minimum six-month commitment. Some clients undergo a significant transformation within this timeframe, with a new mindset and positive habits. For others, it may take longer, depending on their history with self-criticism, and dieting.  However, six months to a year is remarkably fast compared to a lifetime of struggles. Going through this journey alone might extend the process. Healing varies from person to person, and even after transformation, intrusive thoughts can still occur. The key is to respond to them differently, understanding their source and navigating through triggers. Working with the right professionals and support can lead to lasting changes and embracing a new identity that prioritizes mental and physical health. It requires commitment and guidance, but it's a journey worth embarking on. [42:40] Why is it important for you to teach other dieticians how to do what you do?  There are two reasons for my mission. Firstly, by helping others improve their lives and relationships with themselves and others, they spread my mission of wellness and support. Second, the business coaching industry is filled with scams and untrustworthy practices. Many coaches charge exorbitant fees for little value, leading me to take a proactive stance. I decided to offer valuable resources and guidance without breaking the bank. My vision is to make coaching accessible to those just starting out in their entrepreneurial journey.  [49:49] What promise did God make to the world when he created you?  To share my voice and be his vessel.  Key Quotes [23:00-23:03] You don’t have to wait, you can be happy now [32:20-32:24] Try to compliment the effort, not the look   How to connect with Toni Marinucci Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/toniann.marinucci Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tipswithtoni Website: https://tipswithtoni.com  

In today’s episode, our guest is Mignon Francious. She is the Founder and CEO of The Cupcake Collection (TCC). Mignon developed an iconic flavor that drew lines and attention to the hip nature of her Historic Germantown neighborhood, which hadn’t seen this concept developed prior.   [2:45] Why should I listen to you?    I struggle with self-promotion, but let me share it with you. I recently authored a book titled "Made from Scratch: Finding Success Without a Recipe." I genuinely believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, and it's important to embrace and share it. In my own story, I experienced a remarkable journey guided by divine intervention. God would awaken me every morning at 3:17, providing instructions and insights that eventually led me to establish the Cupcake Collection   [5:25] Can you explain the process of turning your amazing cupcakes into a business?   In my neighborhood, amidst a time when I had no electricity and only $5 to my name, a remarkable opportunity presented itself. A neighbor knocked on my door, offering a significant cupcake order for her clients. It was a moment of perplexity and uncertainty. However, I had a heartfelt conversation with God, questioning why such an opportunity arose amid my financial struggles. In response, I was reminded of how birds don't worry about their provisions, as they are always taken care of. Encouraged by this, I decided to take a leap of faith. With that meager $5, I ventured to the store, purchasing the necessary supplies to fulfill the order. To my delight, she paid me as promised. That humble $5 transformed into $16 within a day and soared to $600 by the end of the week. This catalyzed my journey toward success and recognition as the best bakery in Tennessee and Louisiana. Through our hard work and determination, we have overcome financial challenges, become debt-free, and even gained ownership of the property we were once on the verge of losing. Our bakery not only provides delicious treats but also supports students' graduations and helps them pursue their dreams.    [8:55] Have you ever experienced doubts or skepticism about the sustainability of your success?   In my heart, there was always a belief that I was destined for fame, though I wasn't sure in what capacity. At that time, I wasn't actively seeking something significant to happen in my life. My main focus was on finding ways to bring in additional income, to make ends meet. Being married, I wanted to support my husband, even though I could sense that our relationship was deteriorating. He appeared vibrant and full of life on the surface, but little did I know that he was slowly fading away emotionally, leading to the eventual revelation that he wanted a divorce after 21 years together. In the midst of praying for guidance, God provided me with an opportunity that would not only help my husband but also empower me. It was a time of financial constraint, with no extra money for field trips or even basic necessities. However, an idea began to take shape, urging me to step out of my comfort zone and reach a larger audience.   [10:30] How did it feel to expand your presence and compete with other businesses in your industry?   I believe that many people tend to underestimate the journey and lessons behind someone's success. In my own experience, I have established myself as a respected business leader in my community, known for my grassroots efforts and spirit-driven approach. However, amidst the challenges I faced, I was simply following my instincts and doing what I knew best. Interestingly, my college education was focused on pursuing a career in medicine, but it was only 17 years later, in my kitchen, that I began to understand the valuable lessons I had been taught. Making those first mixes awakened a passion within me, and I continued along my path, often unaware that I was building something remarkable. It was the support and encouragement from others, sitting in the bakery with me, praising my creations, and urging me to share them with more people, that propelled me forward. As we started winning awards and experiencing high demand, it became clear that we needed to be where the people were. And then, when I turned 40, I received a significant accolade as part of the "40 under 40" recognition by the Nashville Business Journal.    [16:30] Did you ever find yourself comparing your progress to others and feeling inadequate?   I understand what you're saying. It's common for many people, including myself, to have a tendency to compare themselves to others and sometimes downplay their skills or achievements while being overly critical of themselves. I've personally struggled with self-esteem and confidence issues, constantly beating myself up inside as I watched others accomplish the things I yearned for. However, I discovered that my lack of self-esteem was rooted in a distorted perception of myself. It wasn't until I saw a picture of myself without any filters or Instagram enhancements that I couldn't deny the beauty that was captured in that image. It was a turning point for me. I realized that I could walk into a room with confidence, share my ideas, and trust in my own abilities without fearing judgment or rejection. It wasn't about tearing others down; it was always about tearing myself down.    [22:55] How did you develop a strong sense of self and confidence in your abilities?   I wrote this book because of the support and encouragement from my clients and customers. They believed in me and inspired me to fulfill my promise to God. It's for those who are awake at night, seeking connection and inspiration. Women from different countries have reached out, sharing similar stories. Writing this book was a vulnerable and challenging process, but it taught me important lessons. Every chapter and detail can resonate with others, whether they're single women, single mothers, or aspiring entrepreneurs over 30. Starting a business at that age can lead to greater success. Those two years of writing were not wasted; they allowed me to meet people who needed my story. I want readers to find themselves in these pages and embrace their dreams. It's a tangible piece of my journey that can be intimately shared.   [28:50] Can you share which aspects of your personal story were particularly difficult for you to write about?   The most challenging part of my writing journey was sharing something I had never spoken about publicly before. It was the day my life was shattered, and my children witnessed the painful events unfold. As I completed writing the story, I eagerly showed it to my youngest daughter, telling her it was good. However, she responded with a thought-provoking question, expressing that she couldn't call such a day "good" despite acknowledging its well-written nature. This interaction made me realize the power of perspective and the importance of choosing our words carefully. It was a struggle for me to decide whether to share this deeply personal experience, but I knew there are others out there feeling trapped and isolated. I wanted them to know they are not alone, and that success and triumph are still within their reach.    [33:40] Were there any specific obstacles or difficulties that arose as your business achieved greater success?   I firmly believe that every business exists to solve a problem. In my case, the problem I set out to solve was freeing my family from debt and providing for their basic needs. As my business grew, the nature of my problems changed, but they certainly didn't disappear. People often assume that because you're successful, you're rich and should provide financial support or cover their expenses. However, the truth is that my problems may be of a different magnitude, but they are still challenges to navigate. Throughout my divorce and other difficult situations, I faced circumstances that seemed unfair, yet I discovered that God, in His wisdom and grace, guided me through them.  [42:53] What promise did God make to the world when he created you?   That I will take your tears and bond them up and in exchange for your tears, I will give you joy.    Key Quotes [30:15-30:17] Everything happening to you is actually happening for you.  [33:55-33:58] Once you solve a problem, you are presented with new ones.    How to connect with Mignon Francious  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mignon.francois Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iammignonfrancois LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mignonfrancois  

In today's episode, our guest is Kristiana Mand Lakhiani. She is the Co-founder of Mindvalley and has been in the personal transformation industry for over 18 years. She is an international speaker, entrepreneur, artist, philanthropist, and everyday life philosopher. Kristina is also the author of transformational quests "7 Days To Happiness" and "Live By Your Own Rules". She also speaks about personal transformation, authenticity, understanding and accepting oneself, and a path to happiness. [5:00] Why should I listen to you?  I'm not afraid to express my opinions and I enjoy engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations, especially with someone as interesting and insightful as yourself. It's always enjoyable to converse with others, particularly when I'm in public and can ask them questions about their experiences and interests. I'm naturally curious and find it fulfilling to connect with people on a personal level. Talking to you has been an absolute pleasure. Additionally, I've discovered that the ability to discuss love and other complex ideas in a compelling manner can be entertaining and thought-provoking. It's not simply a matter of saying "I love you," but rather exploring the meaning and power behind that sentiment. [7:25] Would you mind elaborating on that conversation a bit more?  I'm glad you brought up that particular chapter because it's my favorite one, and Ashley's favorite as well, as I've been engaged in personal growth for over 20 years. The chapter addresses the concept of spiritual bypassing, which was coined by John Rawls. Essentially, we sometimes become so enamored with certain spiritual theories and concepts that we use them to avoid dealing with our own personal problems. In the conversation you mentioned, where I was being bombarded with expressions of love, many of us have experienced this situation before. Rather than facing conflict or disagreement head-on, the person in question tries to escape by simply professing their love for us. Although it's difficult to pinpoint a single term for this behavior, it often falls under the umbrella of passive-aggressive behavior. By avoiding conflict, we might seem pleasing on the surface, but deep down, the unpleasant feeling will eventually manifest itself. There are several risks associated with this type of behavior, with the most painful being the doubt that it can create within oneself. When we disagree with someone and they respond with "Why don't you calm down? It's you who's nervous," we might start questioning our own sanity. [16:58] Would you mind sharing some of the things that you found difficult at the beginning and had to overcome to gain strength?  If we are specifically talking about my child's diagnosis, it's not so much that he's a difficult child, in the sense that most people wouldn't know that his brain functions differently. So the learning point for me was that seeking professional help is necessary when facing challenges in life. We don't have to figure everything out on our own. It's interesting how we are not taught to deal with life's challenges using professional help. We are expected to figure everything out ourselves, which is especially true when schools only provide academic education that doesn't necessarily translate to real-life situations. In terms of my growth as a parent, the first lesson was about patience and understanding that love alone is not always enough in relationships or anything else. I also learned the meaning of unconditional love, which I believe we get closest to with our children. Later on, I realized that it's okay to prioritize my own happiness and that it's not selfish to do so. One of the biggest lessons I learned from my children is that everyone has the right to their own journey, including the right to make mistakes. This can be challenging for parents because we want to protect our children from pain and difficult experiences. There were times when I had to make a conscious choice to allow my child to face the consequences of life not always going their way, even though I could have intervened and saved the day. [19:45] Is there a dynamic way that the children are given lessons that they need to learn?  Parents often assume different roles when it comes to their children, with mothers typically taking on the role of the caretaker and problem-solver, while fathers may be more inclined to encourage their children to figure things out on their own, particularly when it comes to boys. However, I hesitate to make judgments about Vicious Journey's parenting style, as I am not privy to his personal journey and transformation with his children. For me, the experience of raising my own children has taught me important lessons about love, including the willingness to accept and support my children even when I disagree with their choices. This means recognizing that challenges, difficulties, and hardships are an inevitable part of life, and teaching my children the skills they need to navigate them, such as problem-solving and executive functioning. When I first began teaching about happiness, I often emphasized the importance of acknowledging and accepting the inevitability of pain and struggle in life. Many people misunderstand happiness, believing that it is possible to live in a world without discomfort or adversity. However, this is simply not realistic. By embracing the challenges of life and teaching our children to do the same, we can help them develop resilience and prepare them for the ups and downs that are an inevitable part of the human experience. [30:05] Do you mind unpacking the aspect of putting oneself first?  As previously mentioned, I was born and raised in the Soviet Union, a society known for its idealism and emphasis on community building. In this societal framework, individuals were deemed less necessary and this was deeply ingrained in my worldview until my teenage years. Moreover, my favorite literary period was the end of the 19th century which further reinforced my belief that a person's most important goal in life was to be of use to the rest of the world. However, in my late 20s to early 30s, I experienced some trauma from constantly prioritizing others over myself. It was during this time that I stumbled upon a poster with an unusual message. The poster encouraged individuals to prioritize their happiness, a foreign concept that left me puzzled and questioning its validity. Years later, I found myself working with refugees in Malaysia, mainly from Myanmar, while simultaneously building Mindvalley, a company focused on teaching individuals to live happy, fulfilled, and extraordinary lives. This contradiction between the human tragedy I witnessed and the message of happiness we were promoting at Mindvalley created cognitive dissonance within me. At an event where the Dalai Lama was speaking, I finally posed my question to him, struggling to reconcile the two seemingly opposite worlds I was experiencing. His response, "You can't help anyone if you're not happy," hit me like a sledgehammer. Here was a person who had dedicated his life to making the world a better place, yet he understood the importance of personal happiness and well-being. I realized that personal well-being and happiness are incompatible with the desire to be useful to the world or be a good parent, entrepreneur, or athlete is a fallacy. In fact, prioritizing one's own well-being and happiness is a necessary step toward being able to help others and solve problems more effectively. Although the topics of happiness and self-love may not be seen as sexy or pragmatic in some circles, I have found that discussing these topics with pragmatic individuals, including entrepreneurs, can be enlightening. It is often assumed that personal well-being and happiness must be sacrificed for more "serious" problems, such as economic crises or raising children. However, this assumption is misguided, as prioritizing personal well-being and happiness can actually make it easier to tackle these so-called serious problems. [39:45] Can you tell us what your book is about?  After my previous rant about the importance of taking care of oneself, I noticed that the book in question is about self-love and is called Becoming Foursome. The book focuses on finding one's way back to oneself, which can often be a challenge for individuals who have been busy pursuing success and following societal ideals. Personally, I found myself in this situation around the age of 30–40, where I felt like my body was going through the motions but I wasn't truly present in my own life. It was a strange feeling, but it prompted me to start asking questions and seeking ways to improve my well-being. Eventually, I realized that I needed to reconnect with myself, and the journey back to myself began. The book is quite research-heavy and a nerdy/geeky read, which I personally appreciate. I like to have facts and scientific support before making statements or claims. The Journey Back to You is a transformative journey, and I don't want to spoil it for anyone by giving away too many details. It's like picking up Lord of the Rings and knowing how it ends—it takes away from experience.  [43:40]  Do you know that 85% of adults have self-esteem?  Self-esteem is not synonymous with self-love, although it is often a byproduct of it or the lack of it. This is a common issue, as there are many misunderstandings and distortions around what healthy self-love actually entails. For example, some people think that egocentrism or self-love is excessive, but that is not the case. Similarly, complacency is often seen as a sign of too much self-love, but it is actually a distortion. We may also mistakenly believe that our idealized self-image is an indicator of self-love, when in fact these misconceptions are markers of its absence or lack. It's challenging to talk about self-love when we don't fully comprehend it. Therefore, it's crucial to understand that self-love matters, especially during times when we're not at our best. It's comparable to the love we have for children. It's easy to love them when they behave well, but it's much more challenging when they make mistakes or don't follow our advice. In those situations, it's necessary to accept that they have their own journey and to continue loving them unconditionally. Similarly, it's crucial to learn how to love ourselves even when we make mistakes or don't meet our own expectations. This may be difficult, but it's a crucial aspect of cultivating a healthy sense of self-love. [49:34] What promise did God make to the world when he created you?  That it's going to be cool, and you should have fun.  Key Quotes  [11:15-11:20] The words don't convey the actual meaning of your feelings; it's everything about you that does.  [25:20-25:25] We often profess the truth without knowing that what is true to us might not be true to someone else.  How to connect with Kristina Mand Lakhiani  Instagram: https://instagram.com/kristinamand?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristinamand?mibextid=LQQJ4d  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-mand-lakhiani-73168414   

In this episode, our guest is Leon Logothetis. He is a global adventurer, TV host, motivational speaker, and best-selling author. For over a decade, he's traveled the globe to over 100 countries to highlight the good in humanity. Documented through his best-selling books and TV Shows, Leon works constantly to inspire the world with his message of Kindness and Hope. This is best shown through his series "The Kindness Diaries," now streaming on Discovery Plus.   [2:30] Why should I listen to you?    I was a broker in London, seemingly successful but deeply unhappy. Inspired by a movie about Che Guevara, I quit my job and embarked on a worldwide journey, relying on the kindness of strangers. From hitchhiking across famous landmarks to driving a yellow motorcycle around the world, I embraced the unpredictability of life. Along the way, I discovered the power of kindness and gave unsuspecting Good Samaritans life-changing gifts. My adventures were documented on Netflix, and later I wrote a book about bravery.    [6:00] What was the life-changing gift that was getting delivered to people?    Each person's experience is unique. For instance, while in Pittsburgh, I approached a man and asked if I could stay at his house for the night. He sadly informed me that he was homeless. Feeling embarrassed, I was about to leave when he unexpectedly offered me shelter, food, protection, and even clothes. I accepted his kindness and stayed on the streets with him. This encounter with Tony transformed my life, teaching me that kindness is invaluable and our true selves reside in our hearts, not our wallets. Inspired by this experience, my crew and I provided Tony with an apartment and supported his dream of becoming a chef. These individualized acts of kindness shape the meaningful impact of our production.   [7:10] How can someone else have their own epiphany?    The epiphany that ignited my journey began many years ago. I endured relentless bullying without ever revealing my truth to anyone. However, there was one teacher who consistently looked into my eyes and told me she believed in me. Her kindness left an indelible mark on my heart. Witnessing her acknowledge my pain inspired me to empathize with others and heal myself simultaneously. As a naturally adventurous individual, the movie I watched combined adventure, goodness, and kindness in a way that resonated deeply with me. It triggered a realization that I didn't have to confine myself to my current circumstances. Instead, I could venture out, forge connections with humanity, and let my own humanity radiate while embracing the radiance of others. It was a profound and beautiful awakening.   [9:30] Where do people who haven’t met humans with kindness find that experience?    That's a profound question. In Alice Miller's book, "The Drama of the Gifted Child," she emphasizes the importance of having a witness in our lives. A witness who can acknowledge our pain, our joy, and our true selves. Having such a witness gives us a chance to navigate life more successfully. However, for those who don't have that witness or kindness in their lives, I would suggest actively seeking it out. Look for someone you trust—someone who genuinely comes from the heart. For example, if you struggle with alcoholism, attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings where you can find understanding individuals. If possible, seek therapy and connect with a therapist who truly sees and witnesses you. Even if financial constraints arise, some universities offer free therapy sessions with trainee therapists. The key lies in taking the initiative as adults to find those who can witness us and truly see us for who we are.   [12:16] What was the catalyst for writing your book?    For me, bravery encompasses speaking our truth, sharing our pain, and ultimately standing in our power. While acts like going to war or saving someone from a burning building can be grave and courageous, the true essence of bravery as a human being lies in vulnerability. I had a transformative experience of this when I was 15 years old and enduring severe bullying. Although no one was aware of my suffering, I reached a breaking point where I had to express my truth and be vulnerable. I approached my mother, had a heartfelt conversation, and revealed the extent of the bullying, seeking her help. At that moment, two outcomes were possible: she could have ignored my plea or taken action. My act of bravery was speaking my truth, and fortunately, my mother took action by changing my school. While it didn't solve everything, it brought about a significant shift.    [15:50] In your opinion, why should we not share our truth with unsafe people?    You've raised an important point. There are individuals, whether knowingly or unknowingly, who seek to diminish others. It is crucial not to provide them with fuel to do so. When sharing our truth, whether it's an emotional truth, a career-related truth like wanting to quit a job or a relational truth like considering a breakup, it is essential to confide in safe individuals. By doing so, we protect ourselves from potential harm and ensure that our vulnerability is respected.   [17:03] How does someone get past a bad moment?    Writing everything down in a personal journal, which you call the truth Diary, can be a powerful tool. This journal serves as a safe space where you can express your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or scrutiny. It's a private space for you to unload and process what's going on in your life. When facing challenges in relationships, for example, if you find it difficult to muster the courage to have a conversation with your partner, begin by addressing it in your Truth Diary. This act of expressing your truth in the journal can help facilitate clarity and emotional processing. Once you've written and reflected on your thoughts and feelings in the Truth Diary, you may find it easier to approach the situation in real life.   [19:55] How does somebody build up the ability to be more brave or start that process again?   You don't have to quit your job or undertake extraordinary feats like circumnavigating the world on a yellow motorcycle. It's about embracing small acts of bravery that align with who you truly are. One of the bravest things you can do is to buy that truth journal and start writing in it. It may seem like a simple action, but it holds the potential to ignite profound changes in your life. Once you begin writing in the truth diary, you'll notice shifts occurring within you and in your external circumstances. Gradually, you can take further steps. Share your thoughts and feelings with someone safe, confide in them, and let them witness your journey. You might even choose to share aspects of your truth on social media, allowing others to support and encourage you.    [27:37] How do you teach others to show up and be brave?    Maya Angelou once wisely said that people may not remember what you say, but they will always remember how you made them feel. To embark on a concrete path of bravery, it starts with speaking your truth, as I mentioned earlier. One of them is learning to say "yes." Often, it can be challenging for us to say yes and embrace new opportunities. Similarly, learning to say "no" when necessary is also an act of bravery. Another step is immersing ourselves in the outdoors. You might wonder how going out into nature could be an act of bravery. But remember Maya Angelou's words. By disconnecting from our phones, we reconnect with our humanity. We tap into the essence of who we truly are, unburdened by the distractions of Instagram, Twitter, and the chaotic news cycle.  [41:30] What promise did God make to the world when he created you?    That I will show my heart and soul to many people and make them realize that they are loved and important and not to ever give up.    Key Quotes    [10:23-10:26] Find someone who you feel kindness comes from their heart.  [13:40-13:43] Bravery is reconnecting with oneself.    How to connect with Leon Logothetis    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindnessguy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheKindnessGuy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonlogothetis  

Welcome to the latest episode of Aww Shift! Today we're joined by Jeffrey Shaw, the founder of self-employed life. We'll discuss some key insights that can help you thrive in self-employment. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Aww Shift! (2:15) Discover Why You Should Tune In! Are you craving genuine conversations? Do you seek meaningful connections and want to learn something new? If so, this podcast is for you! Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration, where we engage with remarkable individuals who are making a significant impact in the world. We kick off each conversation by asking, "What are you up to?" Prepare to be inspired and enlightened! (5:03) Unveiling the Natural Openness I have ever wondered if being naturally open is an inborn trait. Well, let's peel back the layers. Despite being an introvert, I've discovered my knack for initiating conversations. Surprisingly, being a professional speaker has provided a platform for me to break the ice. I find solace in intimate discussions, venturing into the depths of people's stories. Interestingly, I've noticed a pattern among introverted speakers on stage. The discomfort they feel as introverts in the spotlight becomes a driving force. Embracing the limelight becomes an integral part of our growth. Moreover, I've always been someone people naturally gravitate toward, especially children. Parents trust me with their kids, which opens up avenues for meaningful conversations and interactions. It's a beautiful dance of connection. (7:22) The Power of Introverted Communicators Absolutely! Introverts possess a unique ability to observe, absorb, and process the intricacies of humanity. As a former shy kid, my observation skills became my superpower. This led me to pursue a photography career, where I found solace in capturing the world through my lens. The angles, people, and stories I encountered fascinated me. Over four decades, my journey transitioned from photography to becoming a business coach. That same sense of observation paved the way for my coaching career. Statement truly shapes how our brains work; introverts excel in this realm. You hit the nail on the head! (9:43) The Significance of Leadership with Wisdom Leadership comes in various forms and stages. I gravitate toward leading from the side of the room as an observer. Throughout my life, I've played a crucial role in supporting, gently guiding, and instigating change. However, I also acknowledge the importance of front-to-the-room leadership. Both styles have their place, and understanding when to step up and lead from the forefront is critical. (14:42) Unlocking the Path to Becoming a Billionaire Ah, the journey to becoming a billionaire—a topic that often stirs up curiosity and sparks intriguing conversations. Difficult conversations and challenges often hold the key to growth and success, even if they create chaos and disruption. Sometimes, we avoid these discussions, fearing their consequences. However, the ability to navigate such conversations is a crucial skill. Let's delve into the realm of life experiences and uncover the wisdom hidden within. (18:27) The Quest for Wisdom: Unraveling the Source Philosophy and tangible evidence—what a delightful blend! This fascinating combination has always captivated me. In the realm of business and marketing, brevity is often the key. Like the wise man in the fable, the ability to convey your point succinctly holds tremendous power. I enjoy diving deep into profound thoughts, overthinking, and discovering practical applications. My photography business in my 20s taught me the importance of leverage. Connecting with souls and understanding how to translate those connections into tangible, valuable outcomes became my passion. (22:40) Recognizing Problems and Taking a Stand Standing up for your beliefs often begins with experiencing problems firsthand. For me, this journey started during the pandemic. Having weathered economic downturns (30:09) Unveiling the Secrets of Self-Employment Happiness. Have you ever wondered what truly brings happiness to self-employed individuals? I've pondered this question extensively as someone who has never held a traditional job or received a regular paycheck. While some find security in a predictable income, I've realized that the corporate world doesn't align with my lifestyle. The fear of being let go would overshadow any sense of stability. Happiness, in this context, is relative. I hold great admiration for those who courageously navigate the realm of traditional employment. Their resilience and fortitude deserve recognition. (31:53) Embracing the Service of Self-Employment. The core of my work revolves around the self-employed life. It's not just about building a business but crafting a strategic and fulfilling life. Throughout my journey, I've discovered the importance of translating experiences and skills to thrive in the self-employed realm. Traditional business models often revolve around transactional approaches. However, my version of marketing and business focuses on emotionally connecting with individuals and serving them wholeheartedly. I aim to move people from indecision to taking tangible action. This approach, which I call "hug marketing," fosters loyalty and nurtures lasting client relationships. In a world that demands swift solutions, I'm here to help people reach their desired outcomes faster. As a coach, my clients are transitioning into self-employment, and I guide them through the process. Through group coaching, we explore how to translate their existing skills into successful business ventures. I aim to empower individuals to achieve their dreams in a shorter timeframe. (41:48) Exploring the Essence of "The Self-Employed Life" Book. My book, "The Self-Employed Life," is available on various platforms. It delves into the intricacies of a self-employed life, offering insights, strategies, and inspiration. My business institute conducts group training and hybrid coaching programs. We create a thriving community for business owners, fostering collaboration and growth. (44:31) Connect with me at JeffreyShaw.com To stay connected and explore further resources, I invite you to visit JeffreyShaw.com. You'll find a wealth of information, tools, and opportunities to engage with our community of like-minded individuals. Discover a world of self-employed possibilities! (44:56) The Promise I Bring to the World When God created me, He made a profound promise to the world: Your starting point does not define your destination. Regardless of where you begin, you have the power and potential to achieve remarkable heights in life. It's a testament to the boundless opportunities that await each of us. Embrace your journey, believe in your capabilities, and witness the incredible transformation that unfolds. Key quotes (21:45 -21:56) Put your plate in places where something magical can happen in the first place, which you cannot accomplish sitting at your home. (34.10 - 34:15) Move people emotionally toward serving them the best. (44.59: 45.03) Where you can end up has nothing to do with where you start.  How to connect with Jeffrey Shaw Website - https://www.jeffreyshaw.com Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-shaw-654a7985/ Instagram-  https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyshaw/?hl=en Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/JeffShawPhotography/

Today Aww Shift welcomes the guest Dawn Hudson who has survived and thrived in this world and had massive success. I had amazing conversations on different topics, like how we can find ways to help women see what they can do and how she had done that with her band of sisters. Today will be a thinking day. I’m excited about these people as they have walked in different areas of life many people have not experienced. They have their own Aww Shift moments in different regions but evolved to navigate their success on other people. (3:16)Who do you see yourself to be? I don’t know; I can even describe who I am. What I can tell you is the promising career path I had and was privileged to take. I went to a career path site in Boston, my mom went to Wesley, my father was an attorney, and I had to follow my mom to Wesley. I’m a little bit more competitive and want to change it up. I discovered a dorm in college in the woods in Hampshire. And I love to hike and sport in school. From there, I went to advertising, which was a terrific way to learn business across many categories. It was a field that had a few women. Interesting, it is now changed quite a bit today. From there, life happened when my clients hired me. When I worked with Pepsi, it needed to reconnect with the next generation; the Pepsi drinkers were to reconnect with music and sport. We had a vast set of sports relationships within Football. We were successful and had a chance to work with Gianna Fel, who operated for 11 years. (6:19)What do you think about what stands out as one of the most unique and unseen aspects you had to walk through? I think I’m trying to learn football. I wish I had tried to play, but I didn’t have that opportunity. In an environment where most senior leaders are men, sitting around the table can be intimidating. When the number of former professional football players, I may think I know football, but I can’t hesitate to give my opinion on a call or a game change. No matter how much you try to improve your weaknesses and improve yourself, you should be yourself by contributing differently. What I brought to the table was the generational shift in football today from people who follow teams and what they do on Sundays. They follow multiple teams and players using their phones within minutes. That is what I brought to the table, being myself. (8:50)How paramount is this diversity important to human beings or the company? I joined Pepsico in the late ’90s. When I joined, it was a men’s environment. Pepsico was a very opportunity environment. They believe the world is diverse in many aspects. If a company didn’t change its recruiting and culture to attract various people and make them stay, it would not stay in that business in the future. I was lucky enough to be a part of and a leader. So I watched the company’s transition from a very white male-focused to a diverse place. If you have any business problem, gather people from different backgrounds; that diversity of perspectives will solve the problem faster and more successfully. So I lived and believed it. One of the things I’m passionate about and why I joined the Band of sisters today is to get your members up to recruit diverse people, which allows you to make a culture that will enable people to feel more comfortable from different backgrounds.  (11:22)Did you experience any kickback from people not embracing 100% of these new changes? Anthony, I was lucky I was not kicked in my face. When I worked in advertising, I was asked to join with a type 1 detergent product, but I needed to work with sports products. I was not excited. However, it was a massive move for others as I was the first woman working on such a vast project. Typically, what you have performed in your job and your strengths are evaluated when offering the next job to you. The company was so good. But one day, a person called me and said, “You won’t make it here; you are not our type. I’ll do everything by my power that you’re not going to make it”. Lucky for me, I had that confidence. I played back, and other people helped me. When I had an issue, I confronted them without complicating the situation. (15:11)Did you always have the mentality to develop something over time? It developed earlier in my career watching others. One of my successors had ways of raising complex subjects that aren’t personal or as an attack interpreted as angry and aggressive. A lot of people grow things appropriately. How they do it is misinterpreted, and overreaction is the other side. You should try to help others and have more connections. It will be infectious if you are excited and enthusiastic because you feel like you can bring that. The role of a leader is to make sure that the people in the organization are comfortable being at work, and knowing the different capabilities and personalities will bring more business success. (18:24)Did you share what you believe? Mentors are someone who gives you knowledge and perspective, helping you to perform better over time. I needed mentors for packaging development and operations to get more advice when I entered marketing. When a decision is made, the mentors are not in the room. So, think about who you want to sponsor; someone senior in your direct line can be in the same department. How one person gets selected rather than another is quite an advocate for you.  (21:48)Can you unpack what the band of sisters is about and how your team is together? The band of sisters consists of 6 women from different races, single, married, with and without kids. We work together at Pepsico. We support each other and share stories. But sometimes the stories could be more funny. We discussed how to educate younger women and help with what we had earlier experienced and thought to bring men into the conversation. Before the pandemic, we started speaking and advertising on this and decided to get more examples and materials. When the pandemic hit, we collected 360 stories and decided to write a book instead of speaking. We needed it to be inclusive and gain help from others, including men. (32:09)Did you think through which ones were the more important to put into the book? What was that conversation like? We looked through the themes. Pepsico is powerful in personal development. We had a very affinitive process to see people get together and talk with each other. How they should be judged: performing metrics like future capabilities were considered. We need to get together the things to make sense. We need to give a book of flow about the situations. (34:43)What was the exact name of the book? You must get specific advice to bring attention to a situation. We don’t want to handle the situation differently. We have used three voices about how we dealt with the problem. So the people can relate.  (39:57)What is next for the band of sisters? We continue working with companies and associations and coaching and mentoring people. A book is a piece of helping others. We don’t know whether we will write a book or not. (40:33)What transpired in your world? In my world, we spend a lot of time with a band of sisters. From my business standpoint, I get invitations to come and talk to extend my impact. It is exciting to dive into the subject. I wouldn’t do it if it were not comfortable for me. (43:20)Where can the people access the book and you? We have a website called “thebandofsisters.com,” and you can buy the book from Amazon and bookstores. You can follow any of us from Linkedin or the band of sisters. The contact list is there. (43:56)What promise did god make to the world when he created you? The best comment that anybody made me said was, “You don’t give up,” and you will help others. Key Quotes  (17:37-17:56)The role of a leader is to make sure that the people in the organization are comfortable being at work and knowing the different capabilities and personalities will bring more business success. (10:07-10:27)The diversity of perspectives will solve the problems faster and more successfully.  How to connect with Dawn Hudson Website-  https://thebandofsisters.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_band_of_sisters/ Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-hudson1/ 

In today’s episode, our guest is a beautiful human being, Johnny Elsasser. Johnny has a crazy excellent story about his life being in Iraq protecting the American ambassador to Iraq. He has a lot which has never talked about. He has grown through the dark, finding the light times. He is the author of the book “Design the man within” which guides the man to realize that he is not alone in his journey full of struggles, feelings, and judgments to deserve the world. (3:07) Why should I listen to you? You should listen to me because I struggle just as any other man works at the end of the day, and I don’t want to hide that. The only difference is how I use many tools and get through the dark times quicker than I used to. Hopefully, in this conversation, I can give you some tools to help. (3:40) Let’s unpack your framing of dark times. We all have perspectives relative to humans. What are the kinds of dark times you are referring to? It’s always the moment when you are alone. Everything starts to close in, and you will be the harshest critic and the most judgemental person on the planet. It’s a dark time for me. It’s when we discover what can defeat us and put us in the dark. It can show us what keeps us away from our goals and targets. Dark times are what I look at myself. (4:48) I didn’t realize how I felt about being out of it. Some people may not realize that they are in the dark. Do you mind sharing your dark times as awake up call? Most people may not know that they are having a dark time in their lives. They’re just going through lives but don’t know what’s happening. When I was in special operations protecting the US ambassador to Iraq, I loved it. After I came home, I didn’t have the flag anymore, and I wasn’t representing the flag or the country. At that moment, I thought, “Dude, what are you doing?”. When I lost my purpose of serving overseas as a soldier, I felt I had no direction. What I was doing during those days was not filling me up, and that is when I started drinking a lot, not being the best version of myself. This situation led me to a bad relationship with my ex-wife, leading to a divorce, and at that time, I wasn’t living up to my full potential. You are going to be either a piece of crap or good. You need to make a choice. That is where I had an honest conversation and wanted to be a good person.  Some people don’t know this. They keep doing the same, which is terrible in the long run. What do you think about navigating the mentality? Though I know what to do, I fear doing it. This is like I was having a conversation with someone else. When you have that internal conversation, you can see the big picture, the big goal. And involved in this big picture, you can see all the steps to that picture. To the people who think that I am not going to do that since there is so much effort in every single step and too much involvement, what I need to say is to see the goal and start compartmentalizing everything. First, you need to get through the front door. You take what is in front of you. Just do one step at a time and keep going, and you will feel, “Oh, that’s not bad.”  (13:40) For you, what do the steps look like? Once you go through a journey, you realize you have gone in the wrong direction. What is your say on this? Internal confrontations regarding your ego and insecurities are essential. Remember that you are not victims. What happens outside of us are all our doings. The external outcomes are being received due to how we interact with the outside world. You should confront how I should balance myself and how to create myself as a man who can be dangerous and empathetic and move forward as a holistic version of what a good man should be. My internal conversations were, “Don’t ask the wrong question; otherwise, you will expose something strong.” You could call it a weakness, but I would call it an under-note. In this conversation, I need to be honest with my answer and the work necessary to correct that behavior or respond to what I need to be. (19:11) The discomfort holds the path. I can develop by focusing on opening up for businesses and relationships. Is life that simple and easy? I should mention this. We are overcomplicating and just being too dumb to quit. We have the fear that is stopping us from doing. Think about the worst thing if you fail or something wouldn’t go out well. The answer would be the current position you would be living in. That is what is killing me. (21:47) you have done great things. What is the journey to writing your book? It is a mysterious book. Military or paramilitary service is so rigid and kind of structure for you. Because of the responsibilities, there is some beauty in that. But after leaving that, people don’t know how to design the rest of their lives with the transition. I had to go through this process of losing my first wife from a failed marriage and not knowing who I was. Ultimately, I understood that I had the power to design the man who showed up in every conversation. With certain principles and foundations, highly curated traits were picked up for me. I created a man who is consistent with the things I put in my life, specially designed to be intentional. Then life became more accessible. (24:51) Who is the perfect person to pick this up and read? I had talked with elders in 70 and 80 s, but I failed because those men were spiritual and not connected to the 97% of everyday men. I didn’t want to forget this time because we have a quickly evolving society, and we continue to hold back the perceptions of masculinity that men should be. We should develop ourselves to complement how the organization will create a robust and influential figure that holds the authority to avoid chaos in the world. We need good men, and this book is for everyday men. (32:51) Through designing the man, can someone become a protector of his wife, and kids and enjoy his life  What you create in this design is adaptability. We are adaptable and robust enough in our foundation and always try to overcome when things get chaotic and complex. When it comes to designing men, adaptability gives you to experience life with confidence. You have to choose it. Being able to adaptable will create an environment to be with your family being the fun-loving dad and the romantic husband. (34:53) Then you draw these in your life that they can be with you safely? Yeah, exactly. Not only them but also the people around the kids and wife get to experience life differently.  (41:15) Where should I send the people to buy this book? Send them over to design the men within.com. You can purchase them from Amazon and for presale. We have a free eBook at 99 cents. (42:09) What promise did god or the creator make to the world when he created you? I think they made a man who was too dumb to quit could show the world that he can influence through perseverance, development, growth, and authenticity. So that was what they made when they put me in this life. Key Quotes  (10:03-10:09) When you have the internal conversation, you see the big picture, the big goal. (10:27-10:33) See the goal of what you are looking at and then just categorize everything. (10:38-10:41) You take what is in front of you. (11:43-11:45) Just do one step and keep going. (15:06-15:10) The external outcomes are being received due to how we interact with the outside world. How to connect with Johnny Elsasser Facebook: The art of masculinity https://www.facebook.com/the.johnny.elsasser/  Instagram: johnny.elsasser  https://www.instagram.com/johnny.elsasser/?hl=en  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvppHFkWcwc  Email: johnny@johnnyelsasser.com Web: https://www.johnnyelsasser.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-elsasser-men-s-leadership-for-today-b5128979  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElsasserJohnny   

Welcome to the AwwShift podcast, where we bring you the stories of extraordinary individuals who have impacted the world. Today, we are honored to host a true force of inspiration, Jay Fantom. Jay, is a young entrepreneur, award-winning filmmaker, speaker, and writer. His relentless dedication to becoming his best version shines through in everything he does. Jay's authenticity, honesty, love, kindness, and pursuit of excellence are evident in his daily endeavors. Jay has showcased his exceptional storytelling skills at the helm of The Story Box, a highly acclaimed podcast. With over 600+ episodes, he has unraveled the narratives of high-profile leaders from diverse fields. From Tony Robbins and Matthew McConaughey to Mel Robbins and Rachel Bilson, Jay has had the privilege of delving into the lives of remarkable individuals. Join us on this episode of the AwwShift podcast as we dive deep into the journey of Jay Fantom. Prepare to be inspired by his remarkable achievements and the transformative stories he has unearthed. Get ready to shift your perspective and embrace the extraordinary with Jay Fantom. Why should I listen to you? It is good. I can be an exciting person. If someone is interested in me, I ask deep and meaningful questions at the beginning of the conversation. I may look for an overview as I don’t know you. I asked a random question from a person I met on a train. Do you have regrets in life? You have a huge curiosity and the desire to go past the norm of the discomfort of talking to a stranger. Have you ever broken that rule? How was that nature neatly built? When I was a kid, I always used to raise questions from the elders regarding what I was curious. Sometimes they got annoyed thinking about why this kid asked such questions. However, out of curiosity, I have done so many risky things by myself to quench my curiosity. Because of that, my mother advised me there is no necessity to talk to strangers, and there is possible danger. But I did not end up there, and some people enabled me to ask many questions about people they trusted and respected the most. The love for the people, their stories, and the books have always been with me. They helped me foster a child's genuine curiosity and the ability to ask questions. What was your journey on the point to desire to help the people, and what prompted this direction of profession where you serve people? I never thought I would be doing what I am doing today. I wanted to be a filmmaker, and my career path had been filmmaking since childhood. I wanted to be the next Steven Spielberg. Everything I talked was revolving around films and film direction. I found fine scripts and turned them into movies with meaningful messages. However, a part of me wanted to help the world, to make others understand the different values I grew up with through the essence of storytelling. However, my life did not end as I wanted it to happen. Now, I am on a completely different pathway doing different jobs, such as looking after kids and helping disabled people. Therefore there was a gigantic block on the way to my film direction career. What was the moment that kind of unfolded here? It was me in 2019 being broken to the point of getting my hands on my knees and feeling like I could no longer go and live anymore. There was an attempt to end my life in June of 2019. I also talked about this in the book “God Intervened,” in that instance, he saved me from taking my life. He put me in the best possible path. When I was knocked down, there were so many moments I was beaten down and didn’t know what I was doing then. However, now I continue to move forward. Earlier, I never got excited when a challenge came my way. Now I get eager to learn through the challenges and know their importance in improving my growth and strength. Through challenges, you learn so much about yourself. The choice is in our hands. Most people decide to be stuck and stay in pain out of fear. How I survived and overcame when I lost what I valued the most in 2019 is encouraging me progressively up to now. You had a complete storm in your life. You decided to move positively as an intentional act at some point, right? I had been in misery for months under depression, attempting suicide, and abusing my job. It was time for me to leave the job and seek another. During my job interview with the CEO of a large company, he asked me only one question, “Why do you want to work here,” and my response was, “I just wanna help people.” During the return journey, I thought about how to help people and my life is not on the right track. Then I wanted to change my life in a proper direction. Long after that, he helped me find myself and my purpose: to live and live this life in the best way I can to distinguish between I am Vs. I do. A lot of people get confused about these two. Who you are has nothing to do with what you do, as they are entirely different situations. Who you are reflects your character, beliefs, and values, and these characteristics affect your actions. All those times, I had been missing who I am. How did you become “I am” when knowing the things you have to do aren’t what you typically do? Earlier, everything I did was revolving around filmmaking. Every job taught me a unique lesson about people and life. After deciding to be who I am, I understood that anyone can change whenever they want. After figuring out my values and beliefs, I wanted to consider new ways and career paths that mostly align with myself. As we get older and do more things, we get tired and forget after a while that we are supposed to see everything and that life is full of fillings. I won’t be able to see the bigger picture. Then you don’t want to go and change into who you are. What do you think? Some people may already know who they are. So anyone can change their career. Creativity can create more options if you know who you are and what you want to do. Don’t be subjected to blinded by just one thing. What about finding outside sources such as mentors and coaches who had done this before to feed us inside? Reading books can be helpful, and how do you fit in there?  My second book, “The Path of an Eagle,” is for people who feel stuck and can’t move forward. Seeing someone else who has been through a similar struggle and then moved forward successfully inspires others as a positive example. First, look at the macro and then the micro without complicating the situation. If you ask, “What is stopping me from doing what was effective for someone,” the answer should be, “If he can do it, then I can do it too.” Earlier, I also didn’t believe my book would be published. However, I could post the book after going through the necessary steps. After reading this book, what will I have in my knowledge? I hope you understand your worth, identity and how you see challenges from different perspectives. I had gone through a lot of suffering in my life. Therefore, I want others to learn something from this book, see the challenges, and become stronger. I assume “The Path to the Eagle” is a unique healing path for the ones who want to raise like eagles. Publishing a person’s story that has not been publicly shared may help others struggling. The sense of community, bonding, and belonging is our story. What’s your next stage in serving humanity? I’m working on another book at the moment, and it’s regarding unboxing stories. It will help people to unbox their own stories. Some people may think their story has no value, but I’m here to show them each level has value and help them share it. Where can people get access to the podcast or the book? They can reach through any podcast platform or check out the book on Amazon and The Story Box podcast.com website. What promise did god make to the world when he created you? That is a good question. Here lies a persistent, courageous authentic storyteller who gave his all and lived for Christ.   Key Quotes   “Be alive and live this life in the best way possible to distinguish between I am vs. I do.” “Through challenges, you learn a lot about yourself.”   How to connect with Jay Fantom Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/iamjayfantom/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-fantom-91a6b96b/ Website - https://thestoryboxpodcast.com/  

In today’s episode, our guest is Brad Bizjack. He is the CEO and Founder of Brad Bizjack, LLC. He's a personal development expert and international inspirational speaker with almost a decade of experience coaching thousands of individuals and teams to maximize performance and elevate their mindset and career to the next level. He's developed online mindset academies sold in multiple countries throughout the world.  [2:48] Why should I listen to you?  That's an excellent question. It's intriguing because it's not something I've been asked before. If I were faced with that situation, my approach would be centered around active listening and genuinely understanding your story and current circumstances. Perhaps the key lies in empathy and having a deep understanding of what it feels like to walk in someone else's shoes, coupled with a strong desire to be of service. From a credibility standpoint, my ability to connect with people stems from years of personal struggle. I have experienced the challenges of being overworked, underpaid, and burdened by significant debt. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't seem to break free from that cycle. However, once I embraced the strategies and concepts we'll be discussing today, everything started to change for the better. [4:18] Do you mind taking us through your journey?  After college, I pursued a job to overcome my debt and achieve financial freedom. But deep down, I craved more—I wanted to break free from mediocrity and outrun my past. That's when I discovered online business and its promises of success, inspiration, and financial abundance. However, despite my efforts, nothing seemed to work. I found myself trapped in a cycle of toxic positivity, pretending everything was fine while struggling internally. Realizing I needed a mindset shift, I hired a coach despite my mounting debt. During our first call, she opened my eyes to the true path to success: rewiring my mind and finding happiness. This revelation led me to attend a life-changing conference focused on limiting beliefs, where I underwent a transformative experience. From there, I paid off my debt, retired my wife, and built a thriving business serving clients worldwide. I discovered that true success comes from rewiring the mind and prioritizing happiness and appreciation for life. This is where my journey began. [8:08] How can someone find a moment of happiness?  It's crucial to examine what people believe will bring them fulfillment, especially when facing financial struggles. Often, individuals associate peace of mind, freedom, or other desired outcomes with having more money. However, it's important to question who took away their peace of mind or freedom. No external factor has the power to strip away these inner qualities. Many individuals find themselves in a mindset of "should"—believing their circumstances should be different, and they should have more money, a bigger business, or a happier life. This mentality can be counterproductive as it prevents them from recognizing the lessons that will help them break through their challenges. Scott Harris introduced the concept of feathers, bricks, and trucks, illustrating how life presents us with lessons. Initially, life gently nudges us with a feather, but often, we brush it off and fail to learn the lesson. In response, life intensifies its efforts, tossing a brick with a message tied to it through our window. Instead of focusing on the shattered glass, we should seek the lesson hidden within the note. Problems, though painful, are gifts that demand our attention. However, if we continue to ignore the lessons, life may resort to drastic measures, like a Mack truck with a note painted in red. [12:33] What do you have to say about the idea of setting a goal?  I believe in the old adage that without vision, you shall perish, which holds true even in biblical teachings. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of lacking a compelling vision for their future. Past failures and disappointments have left them so wounded that they have become attached to specific outcomes, believing that their worth is tied to those results. As a result, they shrink their goals to make them more realistic. However, I share the viewpoint of Will Smith, who said that realism is the quickest path to mediocrity. While it's important to be realistic about the actions and time required to achieve our goals, being realistic about the dreams themselves often fails to ignite excitement. Instead of setting goals based on what we truly desire, we tend to base them on past experiences. We rationalize and convince ourselves that we can only handle a certain amount or that it's all we can take on right now. This mentality is comparable to having multiple plugs connected but neglecting to plug in our health. Many people approach their lives this way, trying to be realistic when setting their dreams. Unfortunately, they find that they don't achieve these smaller goals, leading them to think they should aim even lower. [18:52] How does someone have this thing that they love that might be in the same direction but not the same thing? That's a valid concern, and it's essential to approach the pursuit of one's heart's calling with careful consideration and planning. It doesn't always mean making drastic changes or completely upending your life. Here are a few steps to lean into chasing your heart's calling without blowing your life up: Reflect and clarify, set realistic goals, plan and strategize, seek support, manage risks and resources, embrace gradual change, and practice self-care.  [23:06] How does someone lean into chasing some of their heart's callings without blowing their life up? Many individuals harbor resentment toward their current circumstances, Let's make note of two important points. Firstly, from a conceptual standpoint, if you are formulating a vision and expecting immediate support from others, you're being unrealistic. As a visionary, you lead the way and initiate the idea. Eventually, people will join in. For instance, when I started my business, my wife initially believed it was the worst idea ever. However, now she is incredibly happy with our successful venture. I hold no judgment against her, as her concern was for our security and stability. She saw my pursuit of a dream as a threat to our safety. Her intention was pure, she aimed to protect us. The key takeaway is that, as a visionary, you must take the leap of faith without immediate support. Now, if you have a family to provide for while chasing your dreams, it may not be the most responsible choice to abandon your sole source of income, risking your children's well-being. I firmly believe in providing for my kids. Now, let's delve into the psychological aspect that can be helpful. Many people have dreams or callings in their hearts, but they bring negative energy to their existing roles or careers because they feel they shouldn't be in those positions.  [33:20] What do people use nowadays to get from point A to point B that you believe is some useful thing we should think through? So there's something we discussed earlier, and I'd like to touch upon it. It's about achieving success, which I believe is your forte. I'm eager to talk about the commerce I've been working on for quite some time. It all started during a hiking trip with my friends. Every couple of years, we embark on a two-week hiking adventure, tackling challenging trails like Half Dome and backpacking through the Grand Canyon. On the journey from Grand Canyon National Park to Yosemite, I sat in the front seat with my friend Jim. During our conversation, Jim made a profound statement about getting ideas or insights when we lack a pen to jot them down. We pondered this observation, and Jim compared road trips to success. He said, "If you're not excited about your destination, why would you embark on a cross-country drive?" It struck a chord with me, and I had a realization: success is akin to Google Maps. However, there's another crucial factor at play—the stories we tell ourselves about our present circumstances. Most people, driven by their need for significance, tend to create disempowering narratives about where they currently stand. They undermine their progress, fail to recognize the beauty of their journey and berate themselves for not yet reaching their goals.  [44:30] What promise did God make to the world when he created you?  That I will make people smile  Key Quotes [10:25-10:28] Your emotions cause you to take action to change your circumstances.  [11:04-11:09] You can't really learn to shift your life until you learn how to appreciate life.  How to connect with Brad Bizjack  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradbizjack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradBizjack Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradbizjack

In this episode of the Aww Shift Podcast, we sit down with Joshua Krafchick, a highly respected life coach, entrepreneur, and speaker, to delve into the secrets of living a rich life. Joshua has dedicated his life to helping individuals unlock their potential and embrace abundance in all aspects of life. Anthony and Joshua Krafchick engage in a thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to live a rich life. They discuss how richness extends beyond financial wealth and encompasses multiple dimensions, including personal fulfillment, purpose, relationships, and overall well-being. Throughout the episode, Joshua shares practical strategies and mindset shifts that empower individuals to cultivate abundance. He emphasizes the importance of shifting limiting beliefs and patterns that hold us back from living our richest life possible. Joshua provides actionable tips and habits that can attract prosperity and fulfillment in all areas of life. The conversation also touches upon the significance of purpose and how aligning our actions with our true passions contributes to living a rich life. Joshua discusses common obstacles and challenges that may hinder our journey towards richness, and offers effective techniques to overcome them. By the end of this inspiring episode, listeners will gain a clear roadmap to live a rich life and be equipped with the mindset and tools necessary to embrace abundance and prosperity. Tune in to discover the secrets to living a rich and fulfilling life with our esteemed guest, Joshua Krafchick.