#12minconvos

Janet Perez Eckles is a nationally recognized speaker on resilience, bestselling author, and transformative leader who has redefined what it means to rise above adversity. Blind since the age of 31, Janet didn't let the loss of her sight stop her from building an award-winning career in the demanding field of language interpretation. When her youngest son's life was tragically taken by violence, she became a beacon of light, guiding others through the darkness of grief. And when the man responsible was acquitted, Janet chose forgiveness over bitterness—revealing a deeper understanding of healing and strength. Her remarkable journey from darkness to influence has touched millions through five inspirational books, 33 stories featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul, and hundreds of published articles. As a bilingual keynote speaker, she travels the U.S. and the world, equipping English and Spanish-speaking professionals to "remove their blindfold" and lead with courage, clarity, and everyday resilience. With authenticity, humor, and unforgettable storytelling, Janet helps audiences see what's possible—not in spite of adversity, but because of it. She is the ideal guest for podcast hosts looking to deliver powerful, hope-filled conversations that inspire listeners to overcome their own challenges and thrive. Links: Website Facebook

Christopher Hillier lives in Parker, Colorado, with his wife and five children. He received his MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business and is an adjunct professor of business at the University of Denver. Chris is an entrepreneur and business executive who has started, acquired, and sold numerous successful companies. He has consulted with hundreds of corporate clients and business executives across the country. He served on the advisory council for one of the largest and fastest-growing insurance brokerage firms in the world. Chris currently serves on the board of numerous for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He is a man of faith, serving as an ecclesiastical leader in his local church congregation. Chris recently published a book on time management, entitled, It's About Time. He has another book that will be available in December, entitled, Point of the Mountain. LinkedIn

Jackson Lahmeyer is a key member of the White House Faith Council and was present when President Trump signed the Executive Order establishing it. As founder of Pastors For Trump, a national coalition with pastors in all 50 states, and lead pastor of Sheridan Church in Tulsa, Lahmeyer has become one of the most outspoken voices for faith in politics. He is also the author of the new book Chasing After the Wind, which explores the dangers of platform culture and the urgent need for spiritual realignment in today's America. Media Talking Points Faith Under Fire: Why the DOJ, FBI & IRS are being investigated for systemic bias against Christians — and what the White House Faith Council is doing about it. Inside the Faith Council: What it's really like advising the Trump administration on matters of faith, culture, and national values. New Book – Chasing After the Wind: The pressure of platform culture in the church and how it's destroying leaders from the inside out. The book is available now on Amazon

Christie Thomas is a Christian parenting and family discipleship coach based in Alberta, Canada. For over a decade, she served as a Children’s Ministries Director, passionately helping churches and volunteers nurture the spiritual growth of kids. Today, Christie equips and supports parents who want to raise faith-filled children at home. She offers practical guidance, encouragement, and biblical wisdom through her family discipleship coaching and faith-based parenting resources. An accomplished author, Christie has written several Christian books for kids and parents that inspire meaningful conversations and help families create everyday moments rooted in faith. Living in Alberta with her husband and three energetic boys, Christie continues to blend her love for ministry, parenting, and writing to empower families to grow spiritually together. Links: Instagram Website Podcast

Julian Treasure is a renowned author and international speaker on conscious listening, powerful speaking, and business sound. His five TED and eleven TEDx talks have been viewed more than 150 million times, including the sixth-most-viewed TED talk of all time. In addition, he has been widely featured in global media, from NBC’s Today Show and BBC TV and Radio to leading podcasts such as Diary of a CEO. Because of his outstanding work, Julian has received both Toastmasters International’s Golden Gavel Award and the International Listening Association’s Special Recognition Award. Books and Courses Julian’s first book, Sound Business, reveals the secrets of effective business sound. Over more than 20 years, he has shown major brands worldwide that good sound is good business. His second book, How To Be Heard: Secrets for Powerful Speaking and Listening, is a practical guide to improving personal communication skills. Furthermore, it won both the SOVAS and Audie global awards for Best Business Audiobook of the Year. Because of his passion for teaching, Julian also offers online courses on communication skills that have already helped more than 150,000 students. In 2025, he will publish his third book, Sound Affects. Leadership and Industry Contributions Previously, Julian was a magazine publishing entrepreneur. During that time, he served as Chairman of the Association of Publishing Agencies, Director of the Periodical Publishers Association, Chairman of PPAinteractive, and Chairman of the UK Government’s Digital Content Forum. In 2002, he received the PPA Chairman’s Award for his services to the UK magazine publishing industry. Personal Life Julian is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Marketors, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and a longtime musician. His bands included Transmitters, Missing Presumed Dead, Fish Turned Human, and Loop Guru. Today, he lives in Orkney, Scotland with four-time world champion martial artist Jane Majendie and their daughters Holly and Sapphire. 🌐 Website 📝 Newsletter

Dr. Nina M. Addison, known as The You Can Specialist, is a dynamic force of faith, resilience, and purpose. Born the ninth child in the blended family of Audrey and Freeman Pendleton, she was raised on the South Side of Chicago with an unshakable belief that she was created to change lives. Despite being born with club hands—no bones in her thumbs and underdeveloped arms—Nina boldly states, “I do not consider myself handicapped, because I do not limit or disable myself from doing anything needed or desired.” Early Life and Education Dr. Nina earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and pursued Social Work at Loyola University Chicago. Her lifelong mission has been to show that with God, nothing is impossible—even when the world notices your differences first. Youth Empowerment and Nonprofit Work In 2005, Nina launched her first nonprofit, T.O.U.C.H. NFP, later rebranded in 2021 as Youth Can, a faith-driven organization empowering youth through workshops, mentorship, and motivational programs. Currently, Nina is co-founder of Homeschool Helps, a hybrid educational program that equips youth with Christ-centered academic and life skills. She continues expanding these services to empower more students globally. Motivational Speaking and Coaching Nina began her professional speaking journey in 2010 with Nina Motivates, inspiring audiences through live events, social media, and media platforms. Her simple yet powerful message: “YOU CAN!” motivates others to live their best lives—mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. She became a certified Christian Life Breakthrough Coach in 2012 and joined the Biblical Coaching Alliance. In 2022, she launched her Life Coach Certification Program, certifying over two dozen coaches to guide others in purpose-driven living. Authorship and Publishing Nina’s first eBook, “From the Mind to the Mouth”, debuted in 2012, followed by her paperback, “Because I Love Me”, in 2013. She founded Anointed Hands Publishing, helping aspiring authors share their stories. She has published over 30 books and anthologies, many aimed at youth and women, transforming lives through storytelling and faith-based guidance. Media and Evangelism Dr. Nina has hosted and co-hosted numerous media shows, including radio, TV, and online platforms. In 2014, she embraced her calling as an Evangelist, focusing on helping people see Jesus through her work. She blends motivation, comedy, and faith to engage audiences nationwide. Marriage and Personal Life After ten years of celibacy, Nina married Vernon Addison on December 12, 2020. Today, she is a proud wife and full-time bonus mom, living out the principles she once taught to youth and women. Recognition and Awards Doctorate in Philosophy, Christian Leadership and Business, 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, 2024 Paige Award for Business, The You Belong Foundation, 2024 SPAA Speaker of the Year Award, 2013 Current Work and Mission Dr. Nina continues speaking globally through her “You Can” message, coaching aspiring authors and life coaches, teaching through Homeschool Helps, and hosting the You Can Radio Show on ICU Radio 97.3 every Monday at 5:30 p.m. CST. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for The You Belong Foundation, Thrive Girls Inc., and Stay Litt Ministries. Nina’s mission remains clear: “I prove to you that YOU CAN using Philippians 4:13.” Connect with Dr. Nina M. Addison Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @NinaMotivates Website & Programs: Homeschool Helps Linktree: Connect to all platforms

Bill Goodwin has over 30 years of leadership experience in growing and building individuals and teams with proven leadership training and dynamic speaking for growth. As a Maxwell Leadership Executive Team Member, Bill is a speaker, leadership coach, and author. He is also the Founder of Priority Living Consulting Group. His soon-to-be-released book,  Priority Living: 7 Pillars to Make Your Life Count derives from the backstory on November 23, 1999, when he experienced respiratory failure and died. Being given a second chance has changed his life and the full story could change yours too. FB:  Bill Goodwin Facebook Web: Priority Living Consulting Group YT: Sample of Networking Talk Purpose-Driven Leadership: Bill Goodwin on Priority Living | LeaderPass Podcast Law of Pain – Grow Through Conquering Painful Situations

Thomas Schueneman is a Global Info Worker, often combining the written and spoken word with the power of sound design. His mission is to make the incomprehensible digestible, and reach as wide an audience as possible as soon as possible. Tom is the Founder/Editor-in-Chief of GlobalWarmingIsReal, and the host of the Global Warming Is Real multimedia podcast. His work appears in TriplePundit, Slate, Cleantechnica, Planetsave, Earth911, and the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust, among others. Topics of particular interest include agriculture, oceanography, and climate policy. Thomas Schueneman's Website LinkedIn

Today's guest is Salvatore Manzi, an innovative leadership communications coach with over 20 years of experience helping executives, entrepreneurs, and leaders amplify their influence and impact. Salvatore has coached leaders presenting at the United Nations, guided founders through their startup funding, and helped a fortune 50 company navigate a major pivot in sales. With emphasis on frameworks, principles, and techniques, Salvatore empowers leaders to connect authentically and navigate high-stakes conversations with confidence. He's passionate about fostering collaborative team environments through effective communication. Website

Chancellor K. Jackson (born 1995) is a Georgia native, born in Fulton County and raised in Smyrna. He attended Stetson University, where he played football for nine years at both the high school and collegiate levels. After earning a bachelor's degree in Communication and Media Studies, Chancellor lived abroad in China from 2018 to 2019. His passion for writing emerged following a traumatic experience—being arrested and detained in Beijing for 14 days. This journey led to his debut book, 14 Days in Beijing, which has ranked #1 on Amazon over fifteen times across multiple genres. Today, Chancellor is an educator, football coach, and entrepreneur, dedicated to guiding aspiring authors through the writing and self-publishing process. 📲 Follow Chancellor on Instagram & Twitter: @‌korlehj 📚 Explore his books & website

Asara Lovejoy is an internationally recognized expert in the science of human potential, celebrated for her groundbreaking work in helping individuals harness the power of their minds through the theta brainwave state. She is the visionary creator of The One Command©, a six-step process that empowers people to rewire their subconscious and consciously create the life they desire. With a blend of ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience, Asara teaches that true transformation begins by accessing the Greater Mind—a field of unlimited possibility—and making a bold command for change. As a best-selling author, seasoned radio personality, and founder of global seminars, Asara's influence spans across continents, helping thousands shift from struggle to success. Her work is rooted in the belief that we are all "quantum humans," biologically hardwired for success, and capable of catalyzing profound change by aligning thought, emotion, and energy. Through her seminars, mastermind programs, and personal coaching, she continues to lead individuals and business owners alike into a new paradigm of growth, abundance, and personal mastery. Asara Lovejoy's Website Facebook

David Gilbert is a transformational executive coach, author, men’s work facilitator, and dedicated explorer of human potential. With a foundation in design thinking and a background in business and peak performance, David has empowered executives, entrepreneurs, and high achievers to break through unseen barriers, uncover deeper fulfillment, and achieve extraordinary results—both professionally and personally. He is the author of The Alchemical Journey, a guide to true self-mastery through inner transformation, and the co-author of Peak Performance: Mindset Tools for Business. David’s work centers on helping leaders move beyond high performance to access their inner gold—peace, fulfillment, and joy—by rewiring limiting beliefs and transforming resistance into growth. Passionate about guiding others toward purpose and authenticity, David brings a powerful blend of strategic insight and soulful wisdom to those ready to step into their highest potential. Connect with David: Website - Personal Golden Life Wesite

Caroline Fernandez is a children's author who creates fun, adventurous books, including the Asha and Baz series and the award-nominated Plague Thieves, inspiring young readers with stories of curiosity, creativity, and real-life heroes.Her newest book, Asha and Baz Meet Gladys West, is part of her awesome series that tells the stories of real-life women who changed the world with science and math! Website

Caroline Rose, a nationally recognized author, TEDx speaker, public speaker, and motivational storyteller, delivers compelling stories from her three separate battles with her highly aggressive, incurable stage IV cancer. After being diagnosed when she was 27 years old and undergoing two different bone marrow transplants, it was ultimately a groundbreaking clinical trial and the donation of her older brother's marrow that saved her life. Caroline understands the universal struggles of trying to live life to the fullest, even in the face of fear and uncertainty, and is passionate about helping people recognize the beauty of life, even in the darkest moments. Caroline's compelling story has been featured by organizations such as MD Anderson Cancer Center, Livestrong, City of Hope National Medical Center, and Health Magazine. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society chose Caroline to be a candidate for their Woman of the Year campaign, and the National Cancer Survivors Day committee highlighted Caroline and her story as a featured speaker for this year's speaker selection. Caroline is a frequent podcast guest on top rated podcast and travels the country, speaking to approximately 10,000 to 15,000 people annually. In 2018, Caroline was honored to be chosen as the speaker for the City of Hope Music, Film, and Entertainment Industry Spirit of Life Awards in Santa Monica, California. Today, Caroline is embracing her thirteenth year of living cancer-free. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, and enjoys life as a wife and a mom to her two teenage children and two four-legged fur babies. Caroline is an avid dog lover and a deep believer in the healing power of animals. She is very excited about her recently released memoir, Dear Riley Rose, the story of a woman and her dog...and how they saved each other. In her free time, Caroline volunteers for organizations such as her local dog rescue, the MD Anderson Patient Advisory Board, the Be the Match Foundation, the National Charity League, and the Battle of Flowers Organization, and she fills several parent volunteer positions at her children's school. Caroline also spends time in Austin and is involved with the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians and the local Austin-based medical device company, Wenzel Spine, which was founded by her life-saving brother, Chad Neely. Caroline's strong message of hope, even in the face of profound struggle, resonates universally, especially today. The world is craving hope, and Caroline is happy to be the one to provide it. To learn more about Caroline or to purchase a copy of Dear Riley Rose, please visit: Website

Ruby Ryba is a former high school math teacher turned Screen Time Strategist, mom of two, and author of How to Stop Scrolling. Drawing from her personal experiences, background in education, and interest in psychology, Ruby helps people reclaim their time, attention, and sense of self in a tech-heavy world. Through relatable stories and research-backed strategies, she guides listeners to examine not just how they use their phones — but why. Her work blends empathy, humor, and practicality to help people find adjustments and strategies that work for their goals. Ruby Ryba's Website LinkedIn

Vince Quinn is the Co-Founder and Creative Director at SBX Productions, where he helps businesses refine their podcast strategy, sharpen their message, and streamline their production processes. Before launching SBX, Vince flew up the ladder in corporate radio. He started his career spinning a prize wheel at events. Seven years later, he was hosting The Vince Quinn show across 225 stations in the US & Canada on CBS Sports Radio...even though he was a terrible athlete. Vince Quinn's Website LinkedIn

Ken Hester brings over 25 years of leadership and pastoral experience, along with a passionate heart for both the local church and life transformation through Christ. He holds a BS in Sports Administration from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, and prior to ministry, he managed corporate franchises and coached high school basketball. Ken has been in full-time ministry for 22 years, serving at Crossroads Fellowship (12 years), Elevation Church (8 years), and most recently as a virtual Executive Pastor for churches nationwide including LifeFamily Church in Austin, TX, where he oversees seven campuses and leads the charge on strategic ministry expansion. Ken has worked closely with large-scale campaigns throughout his ministry and is thrilled to continue that work with Generis. His ability to build strong, flexible, and high-capacity teams, combined with a deep pastoral sensitivity, allows him to bring both relational and strategic leadership to every environment. Ken and his wife, Ashley, live in Austin, TX, with their two children, Isaac (7) and Madelyn (5), and will celebrate 18 years of marriage this June. When Ken’s not investing in leaders or building ministry strategy, you can find him on the golf course, watching sports, or enjoying time with family and friends. Email LinkedIn

David is an author, public speaker, philanthropist, and endurance athlete whose mission is to form more meaningful human connections through storytelling. In his first book, Winning in the Middle of the Pack, he discussed how to get more out of ourselves than ever imagined. With Cycle of Lives, David shares the interconnected stories of people overcoming trauma and delves deeply into their emotional journeys with cancer. He continues to do Ironman triathlons and a wide range of endurance athletic events, having recently completed a solo 4,700-mile bike ride. He is married, lives in Southern Nevada, and has twins who are in college. Email Website

Dawn is a self-proclaimed Fruit Pot! Like the main character in her first award-winning picture book, The Little Pot, Dawn is a vessel created by the Potter. While eagerly allowing her Creator to produce the fruit of the Spirit through her, Dawn loves to help others discover how they can be fruit pots growing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Like Little Pot, Dawn took a long time to discover her true identity and purpose. She searched for purpose as an educator, wife, mother, fundraising director, sales manager, business owner, and even a school principal. Her search caused her to define herself by what she held. As God continued to empty and refill her, she learned to focus instead on what He would grow through her. Each of her books teaches us about the loving relationship we can have with our Potter and each other. The Little Pot helps readers discover that being filled and emptied is part of the Potter's plan to make them into fruit-bearing vessels. Then, the Tea Pot tells the importance of serving and pouring into others. The Oil Lamp encourages us to overcome fear and shine the Potter's light. Finally, the Small Jar teaches us that God is never finished using us and that our wounds have a purpose, too. As the Potter's vessel, Dawn shares how we can each discover our identity and purpose. Through children's books, blogs, and as an inspirational speaker at women's events, homeschooling co-ops, Christian schools, writing conferences, and churches, Dawn serves the Potter and shines His light. She helps others learn to pour out, serve, shine, and not grow weary or burn out. Her books, keynote speeches, and presentations tell readers that God never finishes using them. Additionally, the Potter continues to mold her while she leads a team of professional editors, illustrators, formatters, and marketers at EA Books Publishing. This allows her to help future authors share their unique stories. Discover more at: Website Instagram facebook X Tiktok LinkedIn Youtube Pinterest Amazon

Dr. David Chotka is the founder and director of SpiritEquip Ministries (http://www.spiritequip.com ). He has served as the chair of Alliance Pray! Team (APT)—the national prayer equipping team of the Alliance Church in Canada—for more than twenty years. He is an author, conference speaker, director of a renewal society, a writer, and a prayer mobilizer. David has served his Lord as a church planter, a solo pastor, an associate, and as a lead pastor of multi-staff churches in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. He has led seminars and conferences nationally and internationally, particularly to train people in various spiritual disciplines, including such topics as “How to Hear God’s Voice,” “Living out the Lord’s Prayer,” and “Healing Prayer.” David lives in southwest Ontario, Canada, with his wife Elizabeth. Together they have two adult children. For fun, he plays the piano and allows his fourteen-pound dog to take him for a walk from time to time. Links: Instagram Facebook Youtube Whitaker House Book Site SpiritEquip Contacts for bookings