

Small Steps Big Wins©
Sue Saller
Welcome to the Small Step BIG Wins podcast where I’m dedicated to helping you take control of your life. Each week, embark on a personal journey found nowhere else and be inspired by guests that will challenge your thinking and expand your knowledge. Becoming the hero of your story takes time, commitment, and determination. Small Steps do lead to BIG Wins when you pair your desire for transformation with people who know how to get you there.
Are you ready to change your life? Let’s go do this!
Are you ready to change your life? Let’s go do this!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
Mastering Your Mind with Mitch Weisburgh Ep.193
In this episode, I sit down with Mitch Weisburgh to explore how to master your mind, shift from fear and stress to creativity and resilience, and activate your inner self-commander. Mitch shares practical strategies to calm your reactive brain, access your “sage mind,” and use small intentional steps to turn challenges into growth opportunities.Key Takeaways:✅ The Self-Commander:Self-Awareness & Pause – Notice emotional reactions before they take control.Positive Self-Check – Ask empowering questions to shift perspective.Mindful Action – Use breathwork or reflection to calm the mind and respond with clarity.✅ Sage Mind vs. Limbic Mind:Sage Mind – Creative, resourceful, empathetic, and critical-thinking.Limbic Mind – Reactive, fear-driven, survival-focused, and limiting.✅ Spotting Self-SabotageRecognize your inner saboteurs and gently redirect toward empowerment and intentional action.✅ Fear & Stress as FuelReframe fear as eustress (positive stress) and use it as motivation for growth. Learn to distinguish helpful fear from fear manipulated by external pressures.Mitch’s insights remind us that by practicing self-awareness, reframing fear, and taking mindful action, we can transform stress into resilience and step into our most creative, empowered selves.📌 Connect with Mitch Weisburgh:Article mentioned in the podcast: The Power of Self-EmpathyBuy the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/cF1FjOR View the MindShifting Educators Newsletter: https://blog.mindshiftingeducators.org/profile/posts Learn about MindShifting Courses: https://events.humanitix.com/host/mitchell-weisburgh Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Nov 16, 2025 • 52min
Sobriety and Empowerment with Ellen Frazier Ep.192
In this episode, I’m joined by Ellen Frazier, founder of Booze Free Babes. Ellen shares her journey from social drinking to living alcohol-free and creating a supportive community for women who want to live boldly, authentically, and intentionally. Her story shows how sobriety isn’t about missing out—it’s about gaining clarity, connection, and creativity.Key Takeaways:✅ Notice Your PatternsSelf-awareness is the first step. Recognizing routines, triggers, and habits helps you make intentional choices instead of living on autopilot.✅ Courage + ActionCourage isn’t just a feeling—it grows with consistent action. Small, steady steps lead to big wins.✅ Sobriety SurprisesLife without alcohol can be more joyful, freeing, and fun than expected—bringing deeper connections and new opportunities.✅ Bump the RecordRepeating the same thoughts or behaviors keeps you stuck. Shifting patterns creates space for growth and creativity.✅ Alignment Over PerfectionProgress matters more than perfection. Living in alignment with your values leads to authenticity without pressure.✅ Flow and PurposeTrue flow comes from connecting your energy and passions with purposeful action.✅ Booze Free Babes CommunityEllen created a supportive space for women to embrace sobriety, personal growth, and connection with others who share the journey.Ellen’s journey is proof that choosing courage and alignment opens the door to a more intentional and fulfilling life. Sobriety can be a path to freedom, creativity, and deeper connection—not restriction.📌 Connect with Ellen & Booze Free BabesInstagram: @boozefreebabesFacebook: Booze Free Babes CommunityWebsite: boozefreebabes.comDon’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Nov 9, 2025 • 51min
From Loss to Resilience with Julie Barth Ep.191
Welcome back to Small steps, big wins!In this moving conversation, I sit down with Julie Barth—mother, author, and survivor— where she shares her journey through loss, grief, and emotional abuse, and how she transformed pain into resilience and hope. From caregiving and writing as healing, to navigating toxic relationships and reclaiming her life, Julie’s story reminds us that even in our darkest seasons, peace and joy are still possible.Key Takeaways:✅ Writing as HealingJulie used journaling and her book Notes from a Blackberry as tools to process chaos, grief, and memory.✅ Releasing Regret & GuiltShe shares how letting go of survivor’s guilt and self-blame opened the door to acceptance and growth.✅ Recognizing AbuseJulie sheds light on the subtle signs of emotional and financial manipulation, and the courage it takes to break free.✅ Trusting IntuitionHer story emphasizes the importance of listening to your inner voice to protect yourself and your family.✅ Resilience & PeaceDespite years of chaos, Julie shows how it’s possible to rebuild a life rooted in safety, strength, and joy.Julie’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to heal and rise again. Her story offers hope to anyone walking through grief, abuse, or fear—that small steps can lead to big wins, and life after trauma can hold peace and renewal.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Nov 2, 2025 • 46min
Pushing Limits at Any Age with Shawn Hoyt Ep.190
Welcome back! In this episode, I sit down with Shawn Hoyt, and he shares his journey into endurance sports later in life and how embracing recovery, mindset, and community has transformed both his fitness and outlook on life. From Ironman races to Spartan obstacle courses, Shawn offers practical tips and inspiration for staying active and motivated—at any age.Key Takeaways:✅ Recovery Is KeyAs Shawn entered his 50s, recovery became as vital as training. He emphasizes foam rolling, stretching, ice baths, protein-rich nutrition, Epsom salt soaks, and prioritizing quality sleep.✅ Sleep as a Non-NegotiableHe stresses the importance of getting 8+ hours of rest, comparing its value to the recovery routines of elite athletes like Michael Jordan.✅ Motivation EvolvesInitially, training was about rebuilding health and stability. Over time, realizing that his journey inspired others became Shawn’s biggest motivator.✅ Accountability MattersPublicly committing—like signing up for an Ironman—creates focus and accountability. Sharing goals builds a supportive system that keeps momentum strong.✅ Don’t Wait Until You’re “Ready”Inspired by Joe DeSena (Spartan Race), Shawn encourages committing first and preparing after—whether it’s for a race, sport, or personal challenge.✅ Unexpected LessonsTraining for an Ironman was more fun than expected, but the post-race “letdown” revealed the psychological challenge of losing structure after a big event.✅ Mental Strength Builds Over TimeCompleting long-distance and overnight endurance events built confidence, proving persistence and consistency create lasting resilience.✅ Spartan Ultra PrepTraining for obstacle races requires grip and leg strength, with exercises that simulate real challenges like sandbag carries and bucket walks.Shawn’s story proves it’s never too late to chase bold goals. By prioritizing recovery, leaning on community, and taking consistent steps forward, endurance isn’t just about sport—it’s about building a stronger body, mind, and life.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Oct 26, 2025 • 48min
The Discipline of Doing with Gina Shumway Ep.189
In this episode of Small Steps, Big Wins, I sit down with Gina Shumway—entrepreneur, investor, and mom.Gina shares her journey of turning challenges into growth, tackling big projects, and teaching resilience through both life and business. Her approach centers on discipline, persistence, and taking small, intentional steps to create meaningful progress—especially when facing obstacles.We explore:✅ How a challenging real estate project taught her resilience, problem-solving, and leadership under pressure.✅ Strategies for balancing family, business, and personal growth without losing focus or energy.✅ The mindset that turns obstacles into opportunities, emphasizing perseverance, creativity, and adaptability.✅ Lessons she passes on to her kids about effort, persistence, and celebrating small wins.✅ Practical ways to take small, consistent steps that lead to big results in life and business.Gina’s journey shows how determination, intentional action, and a never-quit attitude can transform challenges into meaningful growth. Her insights are inspiring, practical, and a reminder that small steps truly lead to big wins.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Oct 19, 2025 • 56min
Finding Joy and Alignment in Life with Talie Davis Ep.188
Welcome back to Small Steps, Big Wins! I’m thrilled to sit down with Talie Davis, a certified life and personal development coach. Together, we explore how to live a life rooted in joy and aligned with your true purpose. Talie shares how to find joy even in hard seasons, practical tools for staying present, and simple, intentional steps for personal and professional growth.Key Takeaways:✅ Living with JoyTalie explains that joy is deeper than happiness—it’s a steady sense of fulfillment that can exist even in challenging times.✅ Gratitude & PerspectiveFocusing on what you do have shifts your mindset. Cultivating gratitude helps reveal hidden gifts in every situation.✅ Being PresentShe shares grounding practices—like using your senses, mindful breathing, and awareness—to reduce stress and bring calm.✅ Finding Meaning in ChallengesInstead of asking “Why is this happening to me?”, try asking “What is this giving me?” to uncover lessons, growth, and opportunities.✅ Self-Compassion & EmpathyRecognizing that everyone is doing their best helps us show more kindness to ourselves and others.✅ Energy AwarenessNotice what fuels you and what drains you, then align your choices with what energizes and supports your purpose.✅ Small, Measurable StepsGrowth doesn’t come from giant leaps—it’s built on consistent, intentional small actions that compound over time.✅ Recommended ResourceThe Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron—Talie highlights the practices of morning pages and artist dates as powerful tools for creativity and self-compassion.Talie reminds us that joy isn’t something we wait for—it’s available right now, even in the middle of challenges. By practicing gratitude, noticing our energy, and taking small intentional steps, we can live in alignment with our purpose and let joy ripple into our relationships, communities, and work.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Oct 12, 2025 • 47min
Choose Integrity, Change Your Life with Stew Kraintz Ep.187
Welcome to Small Steps, Big Wins! Today I’m joined by Stewart Kraintz. Stewart shares his journey from a high-pressure sales career to discovering his true calling as a coach, helping people find confidence and take meaningful steps forward.His story is a reminder that sometimes your best path finds you—not the other way around. From choosing integrity over “easy” sales to recognizing life’s signals, Stewart shows how paying attention to what matters most can reveal your true strengths. He also offers practical strategies—like breaking down big goals, celebrating every win, and building confidence—that anyone can apply to transform their life.Key Takeaways:✅ Finding Your CallingStewart’s shift into coaching began when he prioritized helping people over pushing predatory sales, showing how true purpose often emerges from the choices you make.✅ Integrity FirstMaking the “right choice” for others became the foundation of his career—and a guiding principle in how he works with clients.✅ Notice the SignsHe encourages us to look closely at life’s nudges, whether you call it intuition, the universe, or faith, as they can reveal where your talents are best used.✅ Confidence Is FoundationalLearning to trust and value who you are shaped Stewart’s own journey and is central to his coaching philosophy.✅ Small Steps MatterBreak down big goals into tiny, doable actions. Progress comes from consistent steps, no matter how small.✅ Quick Wins CountEven completing a simple 15-minute task can be a victory, building momentum toward larger goals.Stewart’s journey reminds us that confidence, integrity, and small steps can lead to big wins. If you’ve been feeling stuck or searching for direction, his story is proof that listening to life’s signals and taking consistent action can open the door to your true purpose.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Oct 5, 2025 • 47min
How to Move Beyond Fear and Doubt with Stacey Kulongowski Ep.186
In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Kulunowski—bestselling author of Bring Your Own Energy, founder of the BND Group, and former Google director—shares her powerful journey of overcoming burnout, facing a cancer diagnosis, and discovering her true purpose. She introduces her Spark process, a five-step framework to help people break free from stagnation and focus on what truly matters. Stacey also explores the role of self-reflection, authenticity, vulnerability, and surrounding yourself with the right support system in creating lasting transformation.Key Takeaways:✅ Clarity: What Do You Really Want?Stacey highlights the importance of getting clear on what you truly want in life. She explains how confusion, societal pressures, and chasing the wrong goals often block personal fulfillment.✅ Overcoming FearShe shares her experience with fear when leaving her corporate career to launch her business. Her mantra—“make your vision so clear that fear is irrelevant”—shows how to move past self-doubt.✅ The Power of Self-ReflectionStacey emphasizes unplugging and auditing your life to see what lights you up versus what drains you, helping identify where meaningful changes are needed.✅ The Five-Step Spark ProcessHer framework for transformation includes: Self-reflection, Purpose, Abandon (letting go of limiting beliefs), Results (setting measurable goals), Kinetic Energy (using momentum to fuel growth).✅ Energy Hype SquadShe stresses the value of building a supportive network—people who lift you up and believe in you, even when you doubt yourself.✅ Authenticity & VulnerabilityBy owning your story and showing up as your true self, you create deeper connections and open the door to greater success.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Sep 28, 2025 • 55min
Mastering the Balance Being vs. Doing with Rebecca Paris Ep.185
In this episode of Small Steps, Big Wins, I sit down with Rebecca Paris, a spiritual guide, gene keys expert, and founder of RaisingTheVibe.org. Rebecca shares her incredible journey from the world of advertising to spiritual awakening, discussing how she has embraced a deeper understanding of life, consciousness, and the path to embodying our true selves.We explore:✅ Rebecca’s journey of awakening, from the world of marketing to discovering spirituality and the gene keys. ✅ How understanding the energy between people and the common threads across all religions can transform your worldview. ✅ The importance of stepping out of the ego and embodying your divine self to unlock your fullest potential. ✅ Practical tools like journaling, meditation, and the Gene Keys to help you step into your authentic life. ✅ How to release co-dependency and martyrdom in relationships to create healthier, more empowering dynamics.Rebecca’s wisdom on balancing the masculine and feminine energies, embracing your true purpose, and breaking free from the false matrix offers profound insights for anyone ready to step into their power. Whether you’re looking to understand your own unique blueprint or find more harmony in life, this episode is full of actionable guidance to help you start your journey today.Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Sep 21, 2025 • 54min
The Neuroscience of Lasting Change with Lydia Knight Ep.184
In this episode of Small Steps, Big Wins, I sit down with Lydia Knight, founder and CEO of the SHE Center, award-winning executive coach, and author of Thought Leader. Lydia’s journey is nothing short of incredible, from surviving a cult to overcoming an eating disorder and building a thriving business.Today, she shares her insights on deprogramming your brain, shifting your thought patterns, and breaking free from limiting beliefs that hold you back.We explore:✅ Lydia’s powerful story of escaping a cult and how it shaped her path to healing and success. ✅ The neuroscience behind breaking destructive habits and reprogramming your brain for lasting change. ✅ Small, practical steps you can take today to start shifting your thought patterns and create the life you want. ✅ How to deprogram from diet culture and other societal pressures that keep you stuck in unproductive cycles. ✅ The importance of celebration in your journey and how it can accelerate your transformation.Lydia's approach to transformation is rooted in simplicity and neuroscience, empowering you to take control of your brain’s programming to create the life you truly desire. Her powerful story and actionable advice provide the perfect blueprint for turning your struggles into triumphs.Don't miss out on these practical, neuroscience-backed tips for making lasting changes in your life!Don’t forget to check out my book, Small Steps, Big Wins, where I share actionable steps for creating the life you want. Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Small-Steps-Big-Wins-Challenges/dp/1964619432If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at https://www.suesaller.com/. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!


