The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis

Have you ever yearned to share your extraordinary story with the world, perhaps through the captivating pages of a book? The thought of becoming an author can be exhilarating, but it's common to feel lost, not knowing where to begin. Doubts and fears may cloud your path, making you hesitate to dig deep and reveal the vulnerable aspects of your journey.   But fear not, for in today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, we dive into the art of storytelling and gain valuable insights from the remarkable Dr. Cindy Childress. Her wisdom and encouragement will gently nudge you to take that leap of faith, inspiring you to embrace your fears and share your truth. Interview links Work with Dr. Cindy https://cindychildress.com/ Connect with Dr. Cindy on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindychildressphd/ Get all the links and resources at www https://www.lightbeamers.com/podcast  Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect, inspire, and create change. Long before social media and digital platforms existed, stories were how ideas spread, communities formed, and movements gained momentum. They allow us to share not just information, but lived experiences that others can see themselves in. When we tell our stories, we give people permission to reflect on their own – and sometimes even find the courage to share them. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m reflecting on the importance of storytelling as we celebrate both Women’s History Month and World Storytelling Day. I’m sharing why women’s voices matter more than ever and offering a few simple ways you can start sharing your story—no matter where you are on your journey. Join me today as I share with you: Why stories create connection faster than facts or information ever could The surprising reason many women still hesitate to share their stories How even small, everyday story shares can create meaningful impact A simple storytelling framework anyone can use to start sharing today Why speaking up in rooms where decisions are made matters more than you think The power of sharing your struggles—not just your successes How your lived experiences can encourage someone who is walking a similar path Your story doesn’t have to be perfect, polished, or extraordinary to make a difference. The truth is, the experiences you’ve lived and the lessons you’ve learned could be exactly what someone else needs to hear right now. So I encourage you to think about one story you’ve been holding onto. Something that taught you a lesson, shaped your perspective, or helped you grow. If that story could help someone else feel less alone, maybe today is the day you share it. When you share your story, you shine a light – and that’s exactly how you become a Lightbeamer in the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really mean to be seen—and why does it feel so uncomfortable, even when we want it? Visibility isn’t just a strategy; it’s an emotional and physiological experience that can bring up fear, resistance, and self-doubt. For many entrepreneurs and storytellers, the desire to share their message is often in direct tension with the body’s instinct to stay safe. Understanding that dynamic is the first step to showing up in a way that feels sustainable and aligned. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, April sits down with visibility coach and former therapist Anna Holtzman to explore the deeper layers of what holds us back from being seen. Together, they unpack the nervous system’s role in visibility and how to move through fear without burning out. Listen in as Anna and I talk about: ✨ The real reason visibility feels so hard (hint: it’s not a lack of confidence) How your nervous system is wired to prioritize safety over being seen 💔 Why one negative comment can outweigh 100 positive ones The power of “baby steps” when it comes to building visibility sustainably 🤝 How co-regulation (aka not doing it alone) can transform your confidence A simple but powerful practice to calm fear before you show up 🔥 Why consistency isn’t about discipline—it’s about feeling safe enough to return If you’ve been holding back from sharing your story or showing up more visibly, this conversation is your reminder that nothing is “wrong” with you—your nervous system is simply trying to protect you. The work isn’t to force yourself forward, but to support yourself as you go. Start small, stay consistent, and trust that your story matters. Your voice is meant to be heard—and the more you allow yourself to be seen, the more you create space for real connection and impact. Resources Anna’s website: https://www.annaholtzman.com/  Let Yourself Be Seen workshop: anna holtzman.com/be-seen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna_holtzman/  Podcast: How to Trust Yourself https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-trust-yourself-overcome-imposter-syndrome-feel/id1679033028  Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. And if you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast << Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leadership isn’t always loud, polished, or found in boardrooms—it’s often shaped in the quiet, everyday moments that go unnoticed. The most impactful leaders aren’t just skilled strategists; they’re deeply connected, intentional, and human in how they show up. From handwritten notes to unwavering resilience, true leadership is built through actions that create lasting emotional impact. This episode explores how storytelling, connection, and lived experience shape the kind of leadership people never forget. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with leadership coach and author Leif Hemstad to explore the powerful story behind his new book, The Leadership Harvest. Through heartfelt reflections on his upbringing and the legacy of his parents, Leif shares what it really means to lead with purpose, presence, and humanity. Come and join me and Leaf as we talk about: The unexpected moment that made Leif realize his father’s “ordinary” life had an extraordinary impact on hundreds of people Why handwritten notes might be the most underrated leadership tool (and how they create ripple effects decades later) The powerful duality of leadership: what happens when optimism and realism come together in one household The emotional story behind a eulogy that turned into a life-changing book Why “soft skills” like connection and empathy are actually the hardest—and most important—skills to master The leadership mistake most people make: focusing on results before building real human connection How small, intentional actions today can become the stories people tell about you for the rest of their lives If this conversation sparked something in you, consider this your invitation to start paying closer attention to the stories that have shaped you—and the ones you’re creating every day. Your experiences, your people, your moments—they matter more than you think. Take time this week to reflect on a story you’ve been overlooking and begin to share it. And beyond storytelling, challenge yourself to take one intentional action—whether it’s writing a note, reaching out, or showing up differently—that strengthens a real human connection in your life or leadership. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast << Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podcasting has quickly become one of the most powerful visibility platforms available to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and experts today. Whether you're hosting your own show or appearing as a guest, podcasts create a stage where your voice, message, and story can reach audiences all over the world. But simply showing up on podcasts isn’t enough — there’s a strategy behind turning those conversations into real connection, credibility, and business growth. When done right, podcasting can become a powerful extension of your brand and your storytelling. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with podcast strategist and agency owner Lyndsay Phillips, CEO of Smooth Business Podcasting. Lyndsay shares her journey into the podcasting world and pulls back the curtain on what actually works when it comes to podcast guesting, visibility, and leveraging podcasts as a marketing tool. Listen in as Lyndsay and I talk about: Why podcast guesting doesn’t automatically lead to clients (and what most people get wrong) The surprising reason being on the wrong podcasts can actually hurt your visibility How to approach podcast guesting with a clear strategy instead of just “getting booked” The behind-the-scenes reality of what podcast hosts and audiences actually respond to Why storytelling is the secret ingredient that makes podcast interviews unforgettable The key shift from promotion to connection that makes listeners want to work with you How to turn a single podcast appearance into long-term authority and opportunities If you want your voice to stand out on podcasts, storytelling is the skill that makes the difference. When you learn how to share meaningful stories instead of just information, you create the kind of connection that keeps listeners engaged and coming back for more. And if podcasting is part of your visibility strategy, this episode will help you think more intentionally about how you show up and where you share your voice. Tune in to hear the full episode and start approaching podcast guesting with a strategy that actually supports your message and your business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many of the women I work with are brilliant, heart-led, and deeply called to do meaningful work — and yet they find themselves hesitating, overthinking, or holding back from being fully seen. Not because they aren’t ready, but because they’ve been conditioned to be “good.” The good girl keeps the peace, follows the rules, doesn’t take up too much space, and definitely doesn’t risk getting it wrong. In this episode, we’re talking about what it really takes to break that conditioning and step into your confident era — not through force or perfection, but through self-trust. I’m joined by the incredible Carly Clark Zimmer for a conversation that felt both deeply validating and powerfully activating. Carly shares her journey from being painfully shy and disconnected from her own voice to becoming a coach who helps women decondition from people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the patterns that keep them small. Join me and Carly as we talk about: The subtle ways good girl conditioning keeps you from being seen and fully expressed Why confidence isn’t the first step — self-trust is How to stop tying your worth to your work or other people’s responses The importance of surrounding yourself with spaces that normalize your growth A practical tool you can use to move through overthinking and into aligned action How to start collecting your own evidence so you can truly believe in yourself   If you’ve been feeling the nudge to show up more boldly, to use your voice in a bigger way, or to make a move you know is aligned — but you’ve also been feeling that internal pull to stay safe and small — this episode is for you. Your confident era doesn’t begin when you finally feel ready. It begins the moment you decide to trust yourself. Listen in, and if this conversation speaks to you, share it with a woman in your world who’s ready to break the good girl code and step into the visibility and leadership she’s meant for. And be sure to connect with Carly through the links below — her work in the world is truly transformational.   Interview links: Connect with Carly  Instagram  Check out Carly’s 5-part mini-audio series, Trust Issues Get Carly’s 5-Minute Laser Coach Custom GPT here for FREE with the code FREECLARITY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is nothing that lights me up more than watching someone step into their voice—especially when it’s the next generation. Because when a young person learns that their story matters, that they are seen, and that they are not alone, everything changes. This conversation is about what it looks like to intentionally create those spaces, to raise leaders who are grounded in faith and identity, and to model visibility in real time. It’s about the ripple effect that happens when one “yes” turns into many. Today’s episode is special to me because I’m sitting down with two people I care about—Evelina Solis and her daughter Hope, the beautiful voices behind the Hope & Ev Show. I’ve had a front-row seat to their journey, and we’re talking about the heart behind their podcast, the impact of Shine Your Light Camp, and the calling they are boldly walking out together. Tune in as Hope and Ev talk to us about: The goal isn’t to be seen — it’s to make space for someone else to be seen. You don’t grow confidence first and then use your voice — you use your voice and that’s how confidence grows. Introverted does not mean invisible. When one woman says yes to her calling, an entire generation benefits. Safe spaces don’t happen by accident — they are created on purpose. Our kids are not the future… they are leaders right now. Your story in motion gives someone else permission to begin. This conversation is the ripple effect in real time. Watching Evelina step into her calling, and now watching Hope find her voice because of it, is exactly why this work matters so much to me. This is what happens when we stop playing small and start living in obedience to what God is asking us to do. So here’s what I want you to do: 🎧 Go listen to the full episode. 💛 Share it with a teenager in your life—or a mama who is raising one. ✨ Go introduce them to the Hope & Ev Show. Because the more voices we empower, the more light we put into the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Living with a chronic illness can impact every area of life—physically, emotionally, and mentally—but it doesn’t have to define who you are or limit what’s possible. For many, the journey involves navigating pain, medical systems, unanswered questions, and the challenge of advocating for yourself when symptoms aren’t always visible. This conversation explores what it really means to reclaim agency, seek holistic support, and redefine what “living well” can look like alongside a diagnosis. It’s about empowerment, curiosity, and taking ownership of your healing journey one step at a time. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, April sits down with Wendy Bjork, known as The Empress of MS, to talk about living with Multiple Sclerosis and refusing to let chronic illness dictate her identity or her life. Wendy shares her personal journey, the lessons she’s learned navigating the medical system, and how holistic approaches and self-advocacy have transformed the way she manages her health. Join me and Wendy as we talk about: Chronic illness doesn’t have to become your identity—you can live with it without letting it define you Being dismissed by doctors is common, which makes self-advocacy a non-negotiable skill Healing isn’t just about medication—your environment, stress levels, and daily habits matter more than most people realize The products you use in your home and on your body can quietly fuel inflammation and symptoms Small, consistent changes often create bigger results than dramatic “overnight fixes” You don’t have to choose between traditional medicine and holistic care—you get to decide what works for you Empowerment begins the moment you stop ignoring your body and start listening to it Wendy’s story is a powerful reminder that a diagnosis doesn’t get to write the ending of your story—you do. If this episode resonated with you or someone you love, share it with them and help spread this message of empowerment and possibility. Be sure to check out Wendy’s free resources and connect with her work, linked in the show notes. And as always, go share your story—you never know who needs to hear it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There comes a moment in every business and creative journey when you realize that the strategies, habits, and choices that helped you grow may no longer be the ones that will carry you forward. Growth requires reassessment, honesty, and sometimes a willingness to let go of what once worked. This episode explores that pivotal idea — the space between where you’ve been successful and where you’re being called next. It’s about evolution, alignment, and giving yourself permission to shift. In this milestone 250th episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m reflecting on two major markers: ten years in business with Lightbeamers and five years of podcasting. After a short break, I’m back behind the mic to share what these milestones have taught me — and how they’re shaping the next chapter of my work, my leadership, and my life. Join me today as I share with you: Why starting before you’re ready is often the reason clarity eventually finds you The hidden cost of holding onto offers, strategies, or identities that have already run their course How seasons of life influence the way you’re meant to build and lead The difference between scaling digitally and creating deeply human, in-person experiences What long-term sustainability actually looks like after a decade in business How speaking, storytelling, and visibility can evolve as your goals evolve The powerful questions you should be asking when you feel an internal “nudge” to change As I recorded this episode, I realized how much clarity comes from looking back with honesty and looking forward with intention. If you’re feeling that quiet pull to do things differently — to simplify, deepen, or realign — this conversation is for you. I invite you to listen with an open heart, reflect on what got you here, and consider what might be calling you next. And if something in this episode resonates, come find me — send me a message on Instagram, join our community, or step into one of our in-person experiences this year. Let’s stop doing this journey alone and start building the next chapter together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sales doesn’t have to feel pushy, awkward, or manipulative—but for many entrepreneurs, it still does. At its core, sales is really about problem-solving, building relationships, and helping people make confident decisions. When done with integrity and intention, sales becomes less about pressure and more about service. This conversation explores how systems, mindset, and human connection can transform the way we sell. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with sales expert and my longtime friend Joe Graham for a real, honest conversation about sales and life. Joe shares his journey from growing up on food stamps to becoming a top-performing enterprise sales leader, along with the lessons he’s learned along the way about integrity, resilience, and building sustainable success. Get ready to be inspired by Joe as we talk about: Why sales is really about problem-solving-not persuasion or pressure How removing emotion from sales starts with building a bigger pipeline The importance of systems, follow-up, and always setting a clear next step Why relationship-building beats funnels, tactics, and one-call closes How women entrepreneurs can lean into their natural strengths in sales Simple ways to gamify sales and stay motivated as an entrepreneur Why integrity and long-term trust will always outperform short-term wins   If sales has ever felt heavy, intimidating, or misaligned for you, this episode is a must-listen. Joe brings practical wisdom, real-life experience, and a refreshing reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice who you are to be successful in business. Listen in, take notes, and then ask yourself where you can simplify, systemize, and show up more fully in your own sales process. And when you’re done, be sure to connect with Joe and let him know what resonated most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Visibility is a word that tends to stir up big feelings—sometimes excitement, but often fear and resistance. I know firsthand how intimidating it can feel to put yourself out there, to be seen, and to let others witness your work and your story. But I also believe visibility is the doorway to deeper impact, aligned opportunities, and powerful connection. In this episode, I want to explore what visibility really means and why it matters so much on your personal and professional journey. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the insights that came out of a recent retreat I hosted, where visibility was one of the most transformative topics we explored. I dive into the real reasons we struggle to show up, the hidden fears behind that resistance, and the perspective shift that changed everything for me and the women in that room. If visibility has ever felt heavy, scary, or confusing, I created this episode with you in mind. I invite you to join me today as I discuss: Why it’s completely natural to feel resistance around being seen The surprising truth that many of us fear success more than failure The reflection questions I guide my clients through to clarify their vision The mindset shift that reframes visibility as service—not self-promotion How your unique voice, story, and delivery reach people in a way no one else can More than anything, I want you to remember this: you were not called to hide. Your voice, your experiences, and the stories you carry were meant to help someone else—and visibility is how you deliver that impact. As you listen, I hope you feel encouraged to take one brave step forward and show up just a little more boldly today. If this episode speaks to you, please share it with a friend who needs the reminder, leave a review, or send me a message—I love hearing what resonates. Your story matters, and the world is waiting for you to share it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt like your body was trying to tell you something—but you just weren’t sure how to listen? In this powerful conversation, we explore what it truly means to heal from the inside out. This episode dives deep into the connection between gut health, self-trust, and the stories we tell ourselves about wellness and worth. It’s a reminder that transformation doesn’t just happen in the body—it begins with awareness and courage to rewrite your story. In today’s episode of the Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and client, Dr. Selvi Rengasami, a Western-trained doctor who found her true calling through her own battle with chronic illness. After enduring years of pain and surgeries, Selvi turned inward and discovered that real healing begins when we listen—to our bodies, our emotions, and our stories. Her transformation from patient to healer is one I know will inspire you. Tune in to our conversation as we talk about: How Dr. Selvi’s seven surgeries became the wake-up call that changed everything The moment she realized food could be medicine—and why she stopped accepting “this is just how it is” What it means to move beyond remission into true wellness and vitality Why gut health is about so much more than digestion—it’s tied to confidence, calm, and emotional alignment How storytelling gave Dr. Selvi the courage to connect with clients and grow her business authentically The surprising link between your gut and your ability to set boundaries and trust yourself Practical ways to start listening to your body and rewriting your health story today Dr. Selvi’s journey reminds us that healing isn’t just physical—it’s a story of rediscovering who we are and what we’re capable of. When we share that story, we open doors for others to heal too. Listen in, reflect on your own inside story, and don’t forget to follow Dr. Selvi on Instagram at @dr.selvi.coach to grab her free Digestive Relief Toolkit. Then, share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that their healing—and their story—matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all love the idea of writing a book, don’t we? That dream of holding your words in your hands, of sharing your story with the world, of finally saying “I did it.” But the truth is — writing a book is not all coffee shop moments and creative bursts. It’s a journey filled with resistance, discipline, emotion, and deep personal reflection. And sometimes, the hardest part isn’t putting words on the page… it’s what you have to let go of to get there. In this solo episode, I’m getting real about my own writing journey — the good, the bad, and yes, the ugly. I’ve been working on my first solo book for over a year and a half, and today, I’m pulling back the curtain on what this process has really looked like. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book (or finishing any big project), this conversation is for you. Tune in as I share with you: Why writing a book will test your patience — and your priorities The surprising truth about what’s really holding you back (hint: it’s not time) The fear of “laying things down” and how it keeps us stuck How having a writing buddy changed everything for me My public promise to finally finish and publish my book in 2026 🎯 Whether you’re dreaming of writing your own book or simply tackling a project that’s been sitting on the back burner, this episode is your invitation to make a new decision — to release what no longer serves you and create the space your dream deserves. If this conversation resonates with you, share it with a friend who might need a little nudge to start their own project. And if you love tuning into The Inside Story Podcast, take a moment to rate and review the show at ratethispodcast.com/story — your feedback helps more people find these stories and get inspired to tell their own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There comes a moment when life as we know it starts to fall apart — not to destroy us, but to guide us back to who we’re meant to be. Burnout, loss, and uncertainty can become the very things that wake us up to a deeper sense of purpose and peace. This episode is about what happens when we stop running from the unraveling and start trusting the transformation waiting on the other side. In this heartfelt conversation, April sits down with Anna Girgan, transformational mindset and leadership coach and founder of Epiphanies Coaching. Anna opens up about leaving a high-powered corporate career, navigating deep personal loss, and finding her way back to faith and freedom through radical surrender. Her story is a beautiful reminder that healing and purpose often begin where certainty ends. Listen in as Anna shares with us: How burnout became the turning point that led Anna to rediscover herself The powerful moment she heard God’s voice — and what it took to follow that calling Lessons from her solo cross-country road trip that turned into a journey of healing and faith How loss, grief, and surrender shaped her resilience and renewed her spirit The divine inspiration behind Epiphanies Coaching and her Epiphanies Journal on money mindset Why owning her story and sharing it publicly became a pathway to freedom How she now helps other women heal, align, and live abundantly through her transformational retreats Anna’s story reminds us that sometimes life has to break us open before it can build us anew. When we surrender our plans and choose trust over fear, we create space for grace to do its work. 👉 Connect with Anna Girgan on Instagram at @epiphanieswithanna and explore her retreats and journal through the links in the show notes. If this episode touched your heart, please share it with someone who needs encouragement today — and leave a quick review to help more listeners find The Inside Story Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what might happen if you really pushed the limits of your visibility online? Most people struggle to post once a day—so the idea of posting ten times a day sounds a little wild. But I decided to put that theory to the test, and what unfolded was both surprising and game-changing.   In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m sharing all about my 10 Posts a Day Challenge—what inspired me to do it, how I pulled it off, and the unexpected results that came from it. You’ll hear the lessons I learned, the stories I told, and why this experiment shifted the way I think about content creation and visibility.   Join me today as I share with you: 🚀 The surprising results I saw after posting 10 times a day for 10 days ✂️ How a spontaneous haircut became some of my most engaging content 💡 The secret to never running out of ideas (hint: your everyday life is full of them!) 🔄 How I repurpose old content and made it work like brand new 🤯 The biggest mindset shift I had about showing up boldly online   If you’ve been second-guessing yourself or holding back online, I want this episode to show you what’s possible when you stop overthinking and just show up. After you listen, I’d love to hear: how will you challenge yourself to be more visible this week? Join the LIGHTbeamers Community on Facebook, share your story with us, and get started on your visibility journey today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the things I’ve learned in all my years of sharing stories is that our greatest challenges often carry the seeds of our greatest impact. When life hands us trials we never asked for, we can choose to let them break us—or we can use them as fuel to shine a light for others. This episode is about resilience, hope, and how two remarkable people turned their hardest seasons into purpose. I’m honored to bring you this conversation with Brittany and Micah Clayborne, a mother-and-son duo whose journeys will leave you inspired. Both Brittany and Micah have endured heart transplants, life-threatening diagnoses, and setbacks most of us can hardly imagine—yet they’ve chosen to step forward as advocates, leaders, and encouragers for others walking the same path. Listen in as the three of us talk about: Brittany’s journey through heart failure, transplant, stage 4 cancer How she built a career helping others heal through grief psychology How Micah, at just 13, went from being a healthy athlete to facing a heart transplant The powerful moment that sparked the creation of Transplant Teenz — and how it’s changing lives Why creating spaces of belonging and community is vital for healing, especially for teenagers How both Brittany and Micah lean on faith, resilience, and mindset to navigate unimaginable challenges The impact of storytelling and advocacy in transforming personal struggle into collective hope How you can help support the mission of Transplant Teenz This conversation with Brittany and Micah reminds me why I believe so deeply in the power of story—it connects, it heals, and it inspires action. Their story is proof that light can be found even in the darkest places. After you listen, I’d love for you to share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today—and if you feel called, check out Transplant Teenz to see how you can be part of the movement to support young transplant patients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ten years ago, I followed a little nudge on my heart to start sharing my stories. I didn’t know exactly what LIGHTbeamers was or what it would become — but I knew I wanted to help women find their voices and shine their light. What began as me posting on Facebook turned into a private group, which then grew into this global community, a platform for storytelling, and a movement that has touched so many lives. In this very special anniversary episode, I’m celebrating 10 years of LIGHTbeamers with YOU — the community that has made this possible. You’ll hear from some of the coaches, mentors, and friends who’ve shaped me along the way, and from fellow LIGHTbeamers who’ve stepped into their own stories and transformations. ✨ Join me as I celebrate: The backstory of how LIGHTbeamers began and why August 24th is our official anniversary The wisdom I’ve received from my mentors: Jen Lehner on starting small and taking action, George Bryant on clarity and vulnerability, and Ron Reich on focus and scaling with simplicity How our collaborative book projects gave dozens of women their start as published authors The unforgettable “red dress” moment in Paris that became a symbol of bold visibility for me Inspiring stories from women like Becky and Beth who have used their voices to transform their lives — and the lives of others This milestone is so much more than a date on the calendar — it’s a reminder of what happens when you say yes to your calling and surround yourself with a supportive community. I hope this episode inspires you to pause, reflect, and celebrate your own journey too. And from the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here. Whether you’ve been with me since the beginning or you’re just discovering LIGHTbeamers, you are part of this story — and I can’t wait to see where the next 10 years take us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What would your life look like if you could intentionally design it from the ground up? Many of us drift through seasons without pausing to define what we truly want—only to find ourselves feeling unfulfilled or misaligned. Creating your ideal life begins with clarity around your values, an honest look at your past experiences, and a willingness to imagine new possibilities. This conversation explores how to uncover those truths and take action toward a life that feels right for you. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I talk with certified coach, author, and former nonprofit founder Allison Field about her new book, Create Your Blank. A recent graduate of our Speak Easy program, Allison shares her process for helping people define their own “blank” and offers insights from her deeply personal journey of transformation, resilience, and purpose. Join me and Allison as we discuss: Why identifying and honoring your core values is the foundation for creating a fulfilling life. How life’s challenges—no matter how difficult—plant seeds that can shape your future path. The importance of story excavation to connect the dots between past experiences and present goals. Allison’s journey from a difficult adolescence to founding a nonprofit, and how that became her first “blank.” How Create Your Blank evolved from a coaching program, to retreats, to a fully realized book. Why you’ll create multiple blanks throughout your life, and how to re-evaluate your values along the way. The role of storytelling in building connection and inspiring others to take action. Your story holds powerful clues to what you truly want in life—are you ready to uncover them? Take a moment today to reflect on the values you hold dear and the pivotal experiences that have shaped you, then imagine what your next “blank” could be. We’d love to hear your story—share it with us and inspire someone else to start their journey. And don’t forget to connect with Allison at allisonfield.com to get your copy of Create Your Blank and explore her coaching work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Losing a job isn’t just about missing a paycheck — it can unravel your sense of identity, safety, and purpose. For many women, especially those navigating life on their own, job loss brings a cascade of emotional and practical challenges. But within that uncertainty also lies an opportunity for reinvention, reflection, and storytelling. This episode explores what it means to experience—and rise from—such a pivotal life shift. In this episode, I sit down with writer and educator Desiree Groft, author of the debut novel Girl Unemployed. While fictional in format, Desiree’s book is deeply inspired by her real-life experience of unemployment during the Great Recession — and the resilience it took to rebuild from the ground up. Listen in as Desiree and I talk about: Why she chose to write her story through the lens of fiction instead of memoir How living in a historical NYC women’s hotel became a character in the book The emotional and mental toll of unemployment, especially as a single woman The concept of “holding both grief and hope” during difficult transitions How the book’s cover design became a metaphor for rewriting life’s rough drafts The importance of finding community — not just for children, but for adults too Why traditional publishing didn’t define her journey as an author Desiree’s story is one of grit, reinvention, and honoring the messy in-between seasons of life. If you've ever faced a detour in your career, identity, or purpose — this conversation will resonate deeply. Be sure to listen to the full episode, then grab your copy of Girl Unemployed and follow Desiree’s work. You’ll find the links in the show notes — and don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it. And if this conversation sparks something in you, consider sharing your own story — because your experiences have the power to connect, heal, and inspire others too.   Interview links: Grab a copy of Desiree’s book, Girl, Unemployed https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Unemployed-Desiree-Prieto-Groft/dp/B0DY8NB5XN Connect with Desiree https://www.desireegroft.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a powerful shift happening for women stepping into the later seasons of life. The “Third Act” is no longer about winding down—it’s about reigniting purpose, rediscovering identity, and rewriting what it means to thrive in your 60s, 70s, and beyond. It’s a time to reflect on everything you’ve lived, learned, and led—and to ask, “What’s still waiting for me?” This stage can be the most impactful chapter yet, when you give yourself permission to live fully, boldly, and on your own terms. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I chat with certified coach and former business executive Cathryn Baker, who shares how she launched an entirely new career at age 67. From building multimillion-dollar companies to moving to a remote Texas ranch, her story is a testament to courage, reinvention, and honoring the call to something more. I invite you to listen in as Cathryn and I talk about: Why the term “Third Act” is so empowering—and how Cathryn defines hers How Cathryn went from feeling undervalued to reigniting her confidence and purpose The bold decision to leave a successful corporate life and move to an 1,100-acre ranch The moment a friend told her “your unlived life is waiting”—and how it changed everything Lessons from building two businesses, exiting partnerships, and starting over with coaching Why age is just a number—and how Cathryn ignored societal expectations to follow her gut How storytelling (and listening to your own) becomes your greatest tool for reinvention   Cathryn’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to listen to your intuition, trust your experience, and step into what’s next. Whether you’re in your third act or simply craving a change, your story holds the roadmap. Want to get clarity on what your next chapter looks like? Start by writing down the defining moments of your life—and ask yourself which ones still feel unfinished. Then, tune into this episode and let Cathryn’s story inspire your next bold move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices