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

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

There’s something truly transformative about stepping away from your day-to-day life and immersing yourself in a retreat experience. Whether it’s a journey to a new destination or a space for intentional reflection, retreats offer the opportunity to reconnect with your inner self, gain clarity, and ignite growth. They are designed not just for rest, but for reawakening—a sacred pause that can lead to powerful shifts in perspective. More than just a getaway, retreats are a return to what matters most. In today’s episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by writer, artist, and transformational retreat leader Lisa Dunford Dickman. Lisa shares her powerful journey from travel writer to coach and reveals how her love of adventure led her to create life-changing retreat experiences—most especially in Africa. Together, we talk about what it means to create soul-aligned travel that becomes a catalyst for lasting transformation.   Lisa dropped so many nuggets of wisdom, so I invite you to join us as we talk about: 🌍 How travel has shaped Lisa’s personal and professional evolution—from Lonely Planet writer to soul-led coach 🧭 Why she follows the mantra “you’re getting warmer” to guide her next steps in life 🐘 What makes her African retreats so magical—and how they help women tune into something greater 🌀 The importance of integrating peak experiences so the transformation doesn’t “wear off” 💖 How strong, soulful women can learn to receive instead of carrying it all alone ✨ Why giving yourself permission to be all of who you are is the real transformation 🖌️ The creative ways Lisa brings storytelling and art into her work to make it feel aligned and inspired Lisa’s story reminds us that retreats aren’t just about traveling to faraway places—they’re about returning to ourselves. If her words sparked something inside you, let that be your nudge to explore what your own version of transformation could look like. And remember: your stories are the bridges to deeper connection. They matter. They inspire. So keep telling them—and maybe, just maybe, let a retreat be the next chapter in your story.     Interview links: Connect with Lisa https://lisadunforddickman.com/ Check out the Animal Oracle Energy https://animaloracleenergy.com/ Find out more about Lisa’s African Retreat https://opentothemagicinafrica.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when life as you know it falls apart — and instead of breaking down, you decide to board a plane and find yourself again? Sometimes the best way to get clarity is to step away from the noise and give yourself space to breathe. Travel has a way of helping us see things differently — not just the world, but ourselves. It’s in those quiet, unfamiliar places that we often begin to hear our own voice more clearly. When I first connected with Christina Cridebring, I knew right away she had a powerful story to tell. Her journey — one that took her across continents and deep into self-discovery — eventually became the heart of her memoir, Black Heart Life. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Christina to talk about what it really looked like behind the scenes: how travel helped her come back to herself, what it took to move past fear and publish her story, and how sharing it sparked healing — not just for her, but for those around her too. Hit PLAY to hear: How Christina used travel as a tool for healing and rediscovery The unexpected challenges of publishing a deeply personal memoir What it really takes to write your story — even if you’re “not a writer” Navigating fear, vulnerability, and imposter syndrome when sharing your truth The surprising way storytelling sparked healing conversations in her family Why integrating your personal and professional self leads to deeper alignment The importance of being honest, even when your story involves others This episode is your reminder that your story matters — not because it's perfect, but because it's yours. Whether you’re in the middle of your own reinvention or simply wondering what your next chapter looks like, let Christina’s journey inspire you to be brave, tell the truth, and take that first step. And if her story speaks to you, share this episode with someone who needs it — because when we share our stories, we shine a light for others to find their way. Interview links: Grab a copy of Christina’s book, Black Heart Life Connect with Christina on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaking is one of the most powerful ways to grow your visibility, share your story, and create meaningful impact—but so many people don’t know where to begin, especially if they’re not being invited to speak (yet!). The truth is, speaking isn’t the destination—it’s the vehicle that helps you connect with more people and grow your business. You don’t have to wait for a stage or a formal invitation to start. There are simple, intentional ways to step into your role as a speaker right now. In this episode, I’m sharing the nine visibility habits that have helped me and countless women in my community become more visible and get booked to speak—even before they had any gigs on the calendar. If you're feeling stuck or unsure how to start, this episode is going to give you a roadmap and a major confidence boost. So join me today as I share with you:  Why speaking is a vehicle—not the final destination—and what that means for your visibility How to identify your top 2–3 signature topics you can speak on with confidence Why showing up regularly on video is essential and how to get started without overthinking it How hosting your own events can lead directly to speaking invitations and business growth What a speaker one-sheet is, why you need one, and how to use it to start pitching yourself   If you’re ready to get serious about speaking, I’ve got something just for you: I’m hosting a 60-day Speaker Sprint this July, where I’ll walk alongside you to build your signature talk, deliver it, and start pitching yourself for real opportunities. It’s just $97 to join—and it's designed for action takers who are ready to get visible, fast. DM me on Instagram or Facebook @lightbeamers or email me at april@lightbeamers.com with the subject line “Speaker Sprint” and I’ll send you all the details. And if you’re not already inside the Lightbeamers Community on Facebook, now’s the time to join us. You’ll find support, livestream practice, and tons of visibility resources to help you shine. Let’s get your voice out there—you’ve got something important to say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose yourself in the roles you play—parent, partner, professional, caregiver—until you realize you’ve been running on empty. What happens when your body and spirit finally demand you pause? That moment of reckoning can feel terrifying, but it may also be the beginning of a powerful transformation. This episode explores what it truly means to stop, reflect, and rebuild a life that fits you. In this deeply moving conversation, April sits down with author and coach Cami Foerster, whose new book The Selah Journey chronicles her own path from burnout to healing. As a former Light Beamers collaborative author, Cami returns to share what happened when she hit a breaking point—and how choosing herself led to spiritual renewal, personal growth, and a whole new purpose. Join me and Cami today as we talk about: What led Cami to pull over during a panic attack—and reroute her life How her return to the land where she grew up began a deep healing process The meaning behind the word Selah and how it shaped her journey Why journaling became a crucial part of her transformation How faith, self-worth, and reflection helped Cami reclaim her identity The power of surrounding yourself with a tribe that holds space for your growth How her story became a message of hope for others on a similar path   Cami’s story is a beautiful reminder that even in our most broken moments, we can find clarity, strength, and a new sense of purpose. If you’ve ever felt like life is asking you to pause and start again, this episode is for you. Be sure to grab your copy of The Selah Journey—available now on Amazon—and let Cami’s experience guide you back to yourself.     Interview links: For US listeners, grab a copy of Cami’s book here For those in the UK / UAE, click here to purchase Cami’s book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Public speaking sounds exciting, right? Standing in front of a room, sharing your story, dropping wisdom, and making an impact. But here’s the truth: even the most seasoned speakers still get butterflies (and sometimes full-blown tornadoes) before stepping on stage. Speaking isn’t just about being polished — it’s about connection, preparation, and heart. In this solo episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a recent keynote talk that didn’t go quite how I hoped… at least not in my head. I’m sharing the full story — from the emotional lead-up to the moment my inner critic showed up loud and proud — and the surprising ending that brought it all into perspective. Listen in as I share with you: 🧠 What happens when your inner critic tags along to your keynote 💡 The one thing that saved me mid-meltdown on stage 😬 Why being “over-prepared” was actually a gift (and not a curse) 🎯 The BIGGEST mistake speakers make — and how I made it 👏 How the audience responded (hint: it’ll surprise you like it did me!)   If you’ve ever dreamed of speaking — on a stage, on a podcast, in a room of five or 500 — let this episode be your permission slip. Your voice matters, and your story can create real impact. The more you speak, the more your confidence grows… and yes, it will grow your business too. So go ahead — explore speaking. You’ve got something worth saying. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices