Pockets of Knowledge

In this inspiring episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes executive coach and leadership expert Jennifer Sherman, founder of Envision Leadership Consulting. With over 20 years of experience coaching thousands of leaders worldwide, Jennifer shares invaluable insights into how mindset, emotional intelligence, and intentional self-leadership can transform your career and your life.Jennifer opens up about her non-linear journey. She explains how listening to her inner voice (and using life’s curveballs as catalysts for change) led her to discover her true calling. Throughout the conversation, she and Desiree dive into powerful topics including the importance of rewiring our inner narratives, recognizing physical cues of self-doubt, and how to consciously shift our mindset to create new possibilities.Jennifer also offers practical advice for women looking to position themselves for leadership roles, break free from limiting beliefs, and support each other rather than compete. She addresses the often-overlooked emotional impact of layoffs, the grieving process that can follow, and how to strategically and confidently navigate the next chapter.Whether you're a seasoned executive or someone simply seeking more purpose in your professional path, this episode is filled with empowering tools, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.Bio:Jennifer Sherman has spent over 20 years expanding the capabilities of leaders and executives, earning the trust of top executives who rely on her for transformative insights into their leadership impact. A certified executive coach, instructional designer, and facilitator, she has coached and trained thousands of leaders worldwide—from Fortune 100 companies to high-performing smaller firms. Driven by a passion for authentic leadership, Jennifer helps foster workplaces where people and performance thrive and leaders leave a lasting, positive legacy.Over the years, she has built up an arsenal of leadership and people management tools and diagnostics that bring true value to her clients, ranging from mid-level to C-suite to business owners, across a multitude of industries (finance, manufacturing, media, fashion, pharmaceuticals, engineering, sports, consumer products, etc.)In her work, she discovered that it doesn't matter how successful people are; we all have self-doubt, blind spots, communication challenges, and moments when we struggle to regulate ourselves effectively. Her mission is to promote a more human approach to leadership by building more self-aware, emotionally intelligent leaders with the skills to grow and empower others.Connect with Jennifer:EmailWebsiteLinkedInInstagramResourcesBooks mentioned:Dare to Lead by Brené Brown - BookshopAmazonThe Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work by Ludmila N. Praslova - BookshopAmazonThink Again by  Adam Grant - BookshopAmazonPodcasts mentioned:Unlocking Us with Brene BrownThe Mel Robbins PodcastHBR IdeaCast———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are experiencing any medical conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Welcome to a transformative episode of Pockets of Knowledge. I was honored to feature the remarkable Dr. Priyanka Venugopal, a board-certified physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology and a lifelong learner at heart. Dr. Priyanka's journey is a testament to resilience and self-discovery. From a young age, driven by an insatiable appetite for knowledge and perfection, she pursued excellence in both academics and personal growth. However, the journey to understanding and accepting her true self began as she grappled with body image and self-esteem issues during her teenage years. Dr. Priyanka openly shares her experiences, shedding light on challenges she faced regarding weight and stress. She realized the need for a fundamental shift in her approach to wellness, targeting one goal at a time so as not to become overwhelmed, getting curious about what’s happening with our thoughts and habits, and not believing the false narrative that it “must just be me.” Discover how Dr. Priyanka's exploration into coaching and a deeper understanding of herself became a turning point. Today, she passionately guides and coaches high-achieving working moms to embark on their own transformative wellness journeys. Tune in as we explore Dr. Priyanka's incredible story and the birth of "The Unstoppable Mom Brain," a beacon of hope for high-achieving working moms. Bio:  Hey there! I'm a coffee-loving-mama-bear who has always had a love of learning. It would be fair to say I was the kid who would shoot their hand up, volunteer to erase the blackboards, and wanted every A+ and Gold Star imaginable. I wasn't overweight as a child, but I was uncomfortable in being Me. I wanted to be better, well-liked, and overall "the perfect kid." I would say that my weight did become somewhat of an issue in High School, which is when the oscillating number on the scale began. Sometimes up, sometimes down... based on the latest fad or how disciplined I could be at that moment in time.  It all went a bit crazy after medical school and residency when I got pregnant and had my first baby. I would say that was when I got to my heaviest, and my old "tricks" just weren't cutting it. This was the period of my life I call the good-on-paper-heavy-in-my-mind life. It is when I discovered Coaching, leaned into knowing myself better, lost over 60 lbs without counting a point or calorie, and now help teach and coach other high-achieving working moms to do the same.  I created The Unstoppable Mom Brain to be a light in the tunnel right now for high-achieving working moms– we don’t have to wait till “the end” any more. Connect with Dr. Priyanka Venugopal: Email: admin@theunstoppablemombrain.com Website: www.theunstoppablemombrain.com TheUnstoppableMomBrain.com/webinar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/priyanka.venugopal Instagram: The Unstoppable Mom Brain https://www.theunstoppablemombrain.com/group Books mentioned: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon Atomic Habits by James Clear The Hungry Brain: Outsmarting the Instincts That Make Us Overeat Hardcover by Stephan J. Guyenet Ph.D.  Podcasts mentioned: The Unstoppable Mom Brain We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle - Episode 131 Mentioned on the show: ATP - Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the source of energy for use and storage at the cellular level.  ——— Enjoy this Podcast? Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered! Questions? You can contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening! ——— This podcast is intended to educate, inspire and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that this episode may contain advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Sometimes the doors we think are closed are just leading us toward a bigger arena of possibilities we haven't seen yet. In this thoughtful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Carlee Wolfe—strategist and coach with 20+ years leading talent and transformation at brands like Under Armour, Hyatt Hotels, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee—who helps people navigate career challenges with clarity instead of urgency.Carlee shares her journey of falling into work she loves while acknowledging the doors that closed along the way. She reframes networking as "connecting to learn"—expanding your limited options by getting curious about what others are doing. For introverts, she offers gentler entry points: start with a neighbor doing something interesting, or find groups that match where you are.She gets practical about AI—not as something to fear, but to get curious about and build skills in, because we're all using it whether we've opted in or not. She explains why staying "at least on pace" matters for long-term career growth and encourages using AI itself to start learning.Carlee shares insights from coaching Paralympic athletes, including the powerful advocacy question: "Is it accessible?" She explains how the same principles apply to careers—making the box bigger so more people can play, rather than fighting to fit into small spaces. She introduces the Three C's (Curiosity, Clarity, Confidence) as both a planning tool and diagnostic when you're stuck.Whether you're facing career uncertainty, feeling overwhelmed by change, or looking for permission to explore what's possible, this conversation offers compassion and practical tools for moving forward.Bio:Carlee Wolfe is a strategist, connector, and coach helping people and organizations thrive through change. With 20+ years of leading talent, culture, and transformation across global brands like Under Armour, Hyatt Hotels, Apollo Education Group, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, she specializes in turning strategy into behavior that sticks.Beyond corporate work, she coaches athletes (including Paralympic hopefuls) and serves on nonprofit boards shaping workforce development and recreation. She believes transformation and career growth don’t have to be complicated - she bring stories, strategies, and tools that help people move forward with purpose. Her work is practical, reflective, and focused on forward motion – helping people move with clarity rather than urgency.She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC).Connect with Carlee:Website: https://aceandarrowconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carleeawolfe/Books mentioned:Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781455586660https://amzn.to/3NLfwBTPodcasts mentioned: 10% Happier with Dan Harris - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/10-happier-with-dan-harris/id1087147821 Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/id1345682353———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this transformative conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Lynn M. Bunch, intuitive educator and founder of the Center for Intuitive Education, who has spent nearly 30 years demystifying intuition and teaching people how to trust their inner wisdom without apology.Lynn shares how she built her life's work around making intuition tangible and accessible—not woo-woo or untouchable, but a normalized tool for navigating life's challenges. She introduces the ID Blueprint™, a framework she developed over decades that functions like "the PhD of your own consciousness"—a roadmap covering six core life areas (relationship, wisdom, support, time, health, and finance) that helps you identify your bottom lines, understand your emotional patterns, and stay aligned with who you truly are.Throughout the episode, Lynn gets real about emotional regulation and why most people make their emotions wrong instead of using them as information. She shares why the things you don't confront will become confrontations later. She also tackles the hard truth most people aren't ready to hear: you're responsible for how you navigate everything that happens to you—even the worst things.Lynn opens up about her own journey through cancer, childhood trauma, and life's wounds, explaining the crucial difference between speaking from a wound versus speaking from a scar. And she challenges the victim mindset with fierce compassion, reminding us that our spirit is always bigger than our human circumstances.Whether you're feeling stuck, ignoring your gut instincts, struggling with emotional patterns you can't name, or ready to stop giving your power away to people and circumstances, this conversation offers both permission and a practical path forward. Bio:Lynn M. Bunch is an intuitive educator, spiritual guide, and transformation expert with over 25 years of experience helping individuals connect with their inner wisdom to create lasting change. Through her unique ID Blueprint™ curriculum and one-on-one coaching, Lynn empowers her clients to break free from emotional blocks, align their energy, and manifest their desires with clarity and confidence.   Lynn’s bold, direct approach has helped thousands worldwide overcome emotional obstacles and create real-world results. Whether through private sessions, group events, or her ID Blueprint™ certification program, Lynn offers practical tools and intuitive guidance to help individuals transform their lives, heal emotional wounds, and unlock their full potential.   Known for her no-nonsense teaching style, Lynn is passionate about helping others embrace their intuition as a powerful tool for personal empowerment. She believes everyone has the ability to live a life of purpose and alignment, and she is dedicated to helping her clients achieve that through clear action steps and intuitive insights.   With a mission to help people take responsibility for manifesting their desires, Lynn’s approach blends emotional healing with intuitive practices to create a harmonious, empowered life.  Connect with Lynn:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResouces:Intuitive Insights Event———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this empowering conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Kelly Schuknecht, founder of Two Mile High Marketing and host of Beyond the Bestseller podcast, who shares her journey from 17 years in publishing and marketing to building her own agency—and helping professional women do the same.Kelly opens up about the two and a half years she spent preparing for a job loss she could feel coming when her company was acquired. Instead of panicking when it finally happened, she went all in on her business dream. Throughout the episode, Kelly breaks down the difference between personal branding (how people perceive you) and thought leadership (what people come to you for expertise on)—and why you need both to stand out, especially in an AI-saturated world. She gets tactical about promoting a book without beating people over the head with "buy my book," leveraging podcast interviews for content repurposing, and building a 30-day content strategy around your expertise. She also shares why authors need to show their human side, not just their work.Kelly explains her unique approach to fractional marketing: starting with a two-hour workshop that results in a go-to-market funnel with actionable tactics, not just abstract strategy. She also discusses her Author Power Circle, writing retreats, and her upcoming book, “The Authority X Factor”.Whether you're an author struggling to promote your book, an entrepreneur who knows you should be "out there" but don't know how, or a professional woman ready to step out from behind someone else and build your own platform, this conversation offers both inspiration and a practical roadmap.Bio:I’ve spent over 17 years in marketing, helping entrepreneurs and professionals elevate their brands and grow their businesses. But my journey wasn’t a straight line—it was shaped by the challenges of navigating leadership, motherhood, and a deep desire to do meaningful work. Like many women, I wanted to build a career I was proud of without sacrificing my family or my values. That’s when I discovered the power of thought leadership: sharing your expertise and story in a way that inspires others and drives real growth. Today, I run Two Mile High Marketing, where I specialize in fractional marketing and thought leadership development. I also host the Beyond the Bestseller podcast, where I empower women to share their stories, build their platforms, and make an impact. I’m passionate about helping professionals—especially women—navigate the messy middle of leadership, entrepreneurship, and visibility. Whether we’re talking about marketing strategy, personal branding, or the nuances of remote work, I love sharing insights that help others take actionable steps toward their goals. Connect with Kelly:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeTikTokResouces:https://kellyschuknecht.com/resources#free-downloadsBooks mentioned:Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life by Shannon Russell - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9798992075403https://amzn.to/477X0ciPodcasts mentioned:Beyond the Bestseller with Kelly Schuknect - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-bestseller/id1780870099Shannon Russell Ep #158 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pockets-of-knowledge/id1647662137?i=1000732973105———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this brain-science-backed conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dorota Kosiorek, AI startup leader, brain-based coach, and former management consultant who combines neuroscience and sport psychology to help high performers stop burning out and start winning sustainably.Dorota shares her journey from high-pressure consulting to discovering that working on her own terms unlocked both productivity and joy—but also revealed our brains aren't built for constant information bombardment and always-on culture.After a decade climbing the corporate ladder, she realized the higher she went, the less aligned she felt. When a startup opportunity appeared, she made the leap—discovering that working on her own terms unlocked both productivity and joy. But it also revealed something crucial: our brains aren't built for constant information bombardment and always-on culture.She introduces the "Strategic Off-Season"—borrowing from elite athletes who build recovery into performance cycles—and gets practical with environment design, recovery routines, and visualization techniques for high-stakes situations.Whether you're running on fumes or want to perform at your best without sacrificing well-being, this conversation offers a science-backed roadmap for sustainable success.Bio:Dorota Kosiorek—AI Startup Leader, Brain-Based Coach, and former management consultant (PwC, BCG). My work sits at the intersection of Neuroscience, Sport Psychology, and Hospitality. She combines business strategy with athlete psychology to help you stop grinding and start winning. While most coaches focus purely on "grinding harder," I focus on Environment Design. I help leaders curate a high-performance lifestyle that includes a "Strategic Off-Season"—the intentional recovery required to sustain elite decision-making over the long term. I am currently living a dual reality: By day, I lead international teams at a tech scale-up. By night, I am building a portfolio career and "scouting" the world to launch a future hospitality brand.  Connect with Dorota:Website: https://dorotakosiorek.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorota.kosiorek.56/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindbydorota/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorotakosiorekSubstack: https://thestrategicoffseason.substack.com/Books mentioned:The Power of Systems: How to Create a Life that Works by Steve Chandler Trevor Timbeck - https://amzn.to/3Pva1YgStolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention--and How to Think Deeply Againby Johann Hari - https://amzn.to/4bgQbXZBooks by  Joe Dispenza Podcasts mentioned:Huberman Lab - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110

What if the distance you feel from others actually starts with the distance you feel from yourself? In this reflective conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Kristan Swan, M.Ed., a former business coach turned life and spiritual guide who helps people come home to themselves.Kristan shares her non-linear journey from business coach to spiritual guide, and how the pandemic's depletion led her to ask: what's one small way I could bring people together? Her answer: help people close the gap within themselves first. When we slow down enough to get curious about ourselves, we create space for authentic connection with others.She explores the three buckets of stories we carry—the ones we tell ourselves, the ones we've inherited, and the ones we're willing to share—and challenges the idea that our pasts define us. Every day presents choices to write a new chapter. Kristan tackles why changing your mind isn't a character flaw (it's what thoughtful people do), the practice of non-judgmental observation, and why slowing down is an act of kindness.She also introduces "mapping hope"—the idea that if we're skilled at imagining worst-case scenarios, we owe ourselves equal time exploring best-case possibilities. And she shares her journaling tools like "Spaghetti on the Wall" for daily awareness and "Heart Mapping" for when words fail.Whether you're feeling stuck, exhausted from proving yourself, or disconnected from who you are beneath the noise, this conversation offers permission to slow down, get curious, and remember: your story is still being written.Bio:Kristan Swan, M.Ed. is a business coach turned life and spiritual guide devoted to helping people come home to themselves. After years spent guiding entrepreneurs and leaders to build successful businesses, she now uses that same strategic insight to help people build lives that feel deeply aligned with who they are. Kristan’s work invites you to explore your deepest truths, question the beliefs you’ve inherited, and reconnect with the inner wisdom you may have been taught to ignore. She believes that curiosity is one of the most powerful tools we have — a way to approach our lives with openness, creativity, and compassion.Her work is rooted in the belief that our pasts do not define us — they inform us. And when we learn to honor where we’ve been, we create space to shape where we’re going. Kristan’s mission is simple yet profound: to help you see that your story is still being written — and to give you the courage, clarity, and creativity to write it on purpose.Connect with Kristan:Email: kristan@kristanswan.comWebsite: https://kristanswan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristan.swan/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristanbrowne/Books mentioned:The Book of Awakening-Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have by Mark Nepo - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781590035009A Year with Hafiz: Daily Contemplations by  Daniel Ladinsky - https://amzn.to/479aAwZPodcasts mentioned:The Treatment with Elvis Mitchell - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-treatment/id73330616

What if the depression, anxiety, or feeling of "not enough" isn't who you are—but just your body trying to tell you something? In this transformative conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank, the “Mindset Doctor”, to explore how our thoughts literally shape our biology and why healing starts with listening to your body.Dr. Anna Marie shares her journey that moment launched a 20-year journey into holistic health and brain science—leading her to walk away from an 18-year six-figure career at 40 to build Happy Whole You, her thriving wellness practice.She breaks down the science of epigenetics—how your environment (what you see, eat, listen to, touch) tells your cells how to behave—and explains how your brain's "Google search engine" filters reality to validate whatever you're looking for, and why a dysregulated nervous system is behind most struggles with health and decision-making.Dr. Anna Marie gets practical with tools like deep breathing techniques and pressure points to calm your nervous system. She also dives into her book "Stop Bullying Yourself: Identify Your Inner Bully, Get Out of Your Own Way & Enjoy Greater Health, Wealth, Happiness and Success," sharing how that relentless inner voice of "not good enough" can be silenced when you learn to lead with soul instead of ego.Whether you're battling that "not good enough" voice, stuck in a soul-sucking job, or exhausted from proving yourself, this conversation offers hope and a roadmap. You have more control over your biology than you think.Bio:Dr. Anna Marie, known as the Mindset Doctor, is a visionary leader with over two decades of expertise in human health and mindset, committed to transforming lives. Armed with a Ph.D. in Natural Medicine and certifications in Brain Health, Chinese Medicine, Traditional Naturopathy, and Herbology, she is a respected author, keynote speaker, and the host of "The Happy Whole You Podcast." As the founder of Happy Whole You, she leads the charge to destigmatize mental health and guide individuals toward holistic well-being.Dr. Anna Marie's groundbreaking brain-nutraceuticals, mindset rewiring techniques, and holistic practices are reshaping mental health. Her diverse background—from teaching to corporate wellness to CEO and business owner—provides a relatable perspective on how to live an extraordinary life for optimal health and happiness. Anna Marie healed her brain after years of depression and challenges with dyslexia and ADHD. Anna Marie walked away from an 18-year career at 40 years old to pursue her desire to help people become happy and whole by rewiring the mind and body that hold them back.Connect with Dr Anna Marie:EmailWebsite: https://drannamarie.com/https://happywholeyou.com/FacebookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.anna.marie/https://www.instagram.com/happywholeyou/LinkedInYouTubeBooks mentioned:Stop Bullying Yourself - Identify your inner bully, get out of your own way & enjoy greater health, wealth, happiness and success by Dr Anna MarieBooks by Louise HayDr. Daniel AmenDr. Bruce LiptonDr. Joe Dispenza Podcasts mentioned:Happy Whole You with Dr Anna Marie Frank———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

Getting fired two months into what was supposed to be your job until retirement sounds like a nightmare—but for Merry Korn, it became the catalyst for building one of the world's most successful for-profit social enterprises. In this powerful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Merry, founder of Pearl Interactive Network, Inc., to talk about transformation, resilience, and what happens when rock bottom becomes your foundation.As a terrified single mother with two teenagers, Merry didn't crumble—she negotiated five months of severance for a two-month position and made a deal with God: show me what to do, and I'll dedicate my life to helping others. What followed was a company that grew to employ over 1,300 people across 30 states, with hiring priority given to disabled veterans, people with disabilities, and those in economically challenged communities.Merry shares her years of "imposter syndrome"—having the title and paycheck but no passion—and why being fired could be the best thing that ever happens to you. She gets brutally practical about negotiating severance, protecting yourself during termination, and rewriting your story so you don't show up as a victim in your next interview.Whether you've been fired, are stuck in a soul-sucking job, or feel disconnected from your purpose, this conversation offers both inspiration and real-world strategies. Merry's story proves that sometimes the worst thing that happens to you can lead to the most meaningful work of your life.Bio:Merry Korn is the visionary founder of Pearl Interactive Network, Inc., one of the world’s most successful for-profit social enterprise firms. After 20 years of pioneering innovation in social entrepreneurship, Merry now shares her expertise through nationally recognized content, speaking engagements, and advisory services for business owners seeking transformation and those ready to break free from career stagnation.As a single parent with two teenagers heading to college, I was terrified. That rock-bottom moment became my foundation. In the depths of my despair, I remembered the two most powerful influences in my life: my mother, a Holocaust survivor who escaped both a death train and a death march, and Oscar Schindler, who proved that creating meaningful work could literally save lives.Inspired by their examples, I launched a for-profit social enterprise specifically designed to hire people with the greatest barriers to employment—disabled veterans, veterans, military spouses, people with disabilities, and people living in the most economically challenged parts of the U.S. Within months, this venture grew to employ over 1,300 people across 30 states.Getting fired forced me to finally listen to the voice inside that had been screaming at me for years—and to honor the legacy of resilience and purpose I'd inherited.This experience inspired my book "Fired to Inspired" and my work helping thousands navigate career transitions.Connect with Merry:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInResourcesBooks mentioned:Fired to InspiredFeel the Fear... and Do It Anyway by Susan JeffersThe Artist’s Way by  Jules Cameron The Power of Now by Eckhart TolleMan’s Search For Meaning by Viktor FranklPodcasts mentioned:The Mel Robbins PodcastBrene Brown Dare to LeadThe Oprah Podcast———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

What if you're not broken—just misaligned? In this conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Stefanie Carlstedt, a Certified Human Design Business Coach who helps entrepreneurs and teams ditch one-size-fits-all strategies and build success that actually fits. After 13 years of entrepreneurial trial-and-error, Stef discovered Human Design and everything changed. Now she helps others build businesses and lives that honor who they truly are—without the burnout and confusion.Stef shares her personal journey from corporate burnout to building a six-figure business that left her feeling empty. When her father was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's, she walked away from her social work career to be with him and started fresh. After his passing, a text from her sister-in-law about Human Design finally gave her the clarity she'd been searching for—and transformed her business, her relationships, and her understanding of herself.So what is Human Design? Unlike personality tests that rely on a conditioned mind, Human Design uses your birth date, time, and location to create a personalized chart showing how you're meant to move through the world. Stef breaks down the five energy types and explains why some people thrive with hustle while others burn out, why following someone else's blueprint rarely works, and how understanding your unique decision-making process can help you stop saying yes when your body is screaming no.Whether you're an entrepreneur struggling to find your footing, a leader trying to support your team, or someone who's tired of feeling like life has to be so hard, this episode offers practical tools and a refreshing reminder: when you align with your true design, everything shifts.Bio:Stefanie Carlstedt is a Certified Human Design Business Coach for Entrepreneurs and Teams. After 13 years of trial-and-error in entrepreneurship, she discovered the power of Human Design to turn burnout and confusion into clarity and sustainable growth. Today she helps business owners and teams ditch one-size-fits-all strategies and build success that actually fits, by design.Connect with Stefanie:Website: http://stefcarlstedt.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stefanie.carlstedt.2025Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stefaniecarlstedt/Resources:http://stefcarlstedt.com/hdreporthttps://www.stefcarlstedt.com/magneticbusinessBooks mentioned:Outlive - The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780593236598https://amzn.to/4trX2qaThe Gene Keys Embracing Your Higher Purpose by Richard Rudd - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781780285429https://amzn.to/46sPtFBPodcasts mentioned:The Human Design Advantage with Stefanie Carlstedt - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-human-design-advantage/id1818861491Be Magnetic Podcast with Tara Fischer - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-magnetic-podcast/id1660554761———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Next Level Soul Podcast with Alex Ferrari - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari/id1560904383

In this expansive and energizing episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and high-performance coach Cortney McDermott for a conversation that blends science, soul, and strategy. With a career that spans executive roles in global corporations, bestselling books, and appearances on stages like TEDx and Mindvalley, Cortney shares how real transformation starts from within—and how we can all access deeper alignment, joy, and purpose by tuning into our own innate wisdom.Cortney opens up about her personal journey from being miserably successful to becoming a conscious creator of a more aligned life and business. She and Desiree explore topics like intuitive decision-making, rewiring subconscious beliefs, and why “hustle culture” often leads us away from the very success we’re chasing. Cortney introduces the neuroscience behind change, the power of permission, and how curiosity can be a guiding force when we're stuck or in transition.Throughout the conversation, Cortney encourages listeners to stop outsourcing their power and start designing a life that actually feels good—not just looks good on paper. Whether you're a high-achieving professional, a curious seeker, or someone craving more clarity and calm in your life, this episode offers practical tools and soulful insights to help you return to your center, trust your inner voice, and create from a place of true alignment.Bio:Cortney McDermott is an award-winning author and speaker and celebrity coach. Her work in self-development and business strategy has been featured in Inc., Women’s Health, NBC, The Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, and SUCCESS, and her talks on human potential have been shared on stages including TEDx, Mindvalley, Oxford Saïd Business School, and Richard Branson’s private island, Necker.With a Master of Science from the London School of Economics, Cortney blends academic rigor with real-world experience to help individuals and organizations reach their highest potential. Her career highlights include executive roles at Vanity Fair Corporation, Vice President at Sustainability Partners Inc., and successfully running her own businesses, where she has worked with brands such as Universal Music Group, Nike, Kickstarter, and Google.Connect with Cortney:Website: https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortneymcdermott/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cortneymcdermott/YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@cortincResources:https://youtu.be/L2f8w1v-Hzo?si=e_Pu3GFB5w9YXGLSBooks mentioned:Give Yourself Permission. Be Confident. Be Happy. Be You. Cortney McDermott - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781736357019https://amzn.to/3ZS7Vnf Change Starts Within You: Unlock the Confidence to Lead with IntuitionCortney McDermott - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780998955209https://amzn.to/4qi10Pl Think and Grow Rich Napoleon Hill - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781585424337https://amzn.to/4rqn1w5Books by:Alan WattsWallace Wattles———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this insightful and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Dr. Robin Buckley—clinical psychologist, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and author of Marriage, Inc.: The Boardroom Blueprint to Lasting Love—for a thought-provoking conversation about applying business strategies to romantic relationships. With her background in cognitive behavioral psychology and executive coaching, Dr. Buckley brings a unique and strategic lens to improving communication, conflict resolution, and connection in both personal and professional partnerships.Together, Desiree and Dr. Buckley explore how high-achieving individuals and couples can use tools like goal-setting and strategic planning—traditionally reserved for the workplace—to build healthier, more intentional relationships at home. Dr. Buckley shares how she helps couples move from autopilot to clarity by identifying shared visions, setting expectations, and having proactive conversations about topics that are often avoided until they become problems.The conversation also touches on handling resentment, building emotional equity, and why couples therapy isn’t just for when things are broken—it’s a performance tool for growing stronger together. Dr. Buckley emphasizes that relationships are not “soft” or second-tier compared to career ambitions—they deserve structure, attention, and investment too.Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, navigating marriage, or simply curious about how to bring more intention to your partnerships, this episode offers a fresh approach to love and connection.Bio:Dr. Robin Buckley earned her PhD in clinical psychology from Hofstra University, with specialized training in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Her work as an expert in the field has been featured on multiple media platforms, including Entrepreneur, Chief, Authority Magazine, Nike, and on the 2023 TED stage. As an international speaker, Robin focuses on applying cognitive behavioral strategies to mental wellness in the workplace and to women’s equity and empowerment. As a coach, Robin applies cognitive behavioral tactics to help organizations, couples, and individuals create strategic plans for professional and personal success.Connect with Dr Robin Buckley:Website: https://drrobinbuckley.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingthepowerwithin/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobinbuckley/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robin-buckley/Books mentioned:Marriage Inc The Boardroom Blueprint to Lasting Love by Dr Robin Buckley- https://amzn.to/3K9MLx1Coupon: Marriage20 Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781594634727https://amzn.to/4r0shHfPodcasts mentioned:unPAUSED  with Dr. Mary Claire Haver - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unpaused-with-dr-mary-claire-haver/id1846701533 Wiser than me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wiser-than-me-with-julia-louis-dreyfus/id1678559416———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

If you've ever felt behind with money, overwhelmed by financial jargon, or unsure how to prioritize yourself without guilt, this episode is your permission slip to start fresh. Host Desiree Stanley welcomes certified financial planner, educator, and speaker Linda Grizly—creator of the ME Money Method—for a powerful, down-to-earth conversation about building confidence and clarity with your finances. With no shame, no judgment, and plenty of real talk, Linda shares her journey from teen mom to successful financial expert, opening up about the moments that shaped her relationship with money and inspired her mission to help others—especially women—feel seen, supported, and empowered.Throughout the conversation, Linda explains how understanding your money personality type—whether you’re a spender, saver, avoider, security seeker, or risk taker—can shift the way you manage and feel about your finances. She also emphasizes that it’s possible to build a life you love without following a budget you hate. Desiree and Linda explore how to start feeling in control of your money, why mindset and emotional clarity matter just as much as the math, and how setting aside guilt-free “ME money” can lead to joyful, intentional spending. Whether you're rebuilding after a life change, starting from scratch, or just ready to think differently about wealth, this inspiring episode offers practical insight, heartfelt encouragement, and a reminder that it’s never too late to reconnect with your power and invest in yourself—one small step at a time.Bio:I’ve always had a strong pull to help people feel seen, supported, and capable. From a young age, I could tell when someone needed extra encouragement,  and it became the heart of everything I do.I’ve blended a career in financial planning with my passion for personal growth and a deep love of speaking to inspire to do one thing:Help you feel confident and in control of your money and your life - without lecture or judgment.Whether you’re rebuilding, just getting started, or ready to rise, I’m here to help you:    Break through limiting beliefs    Learn how money actually works    Understand the power of mindset    Build wealth your way    Think bigger about what’s possibleI’m a people enthusiast who thrives on deep conversations, big visions, and helping others reconnect with their power.Connect with Linda:Website: https://www.lindagriz.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindagrizelyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindagrizely/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-grizely/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LindaGrizelyResources:Money Personality Quiz: https://bit.ly/MonPersQuizBooks mentioned:Think and Grow Rick by Napoleon Hill - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781585424337https://amzn.to/4aUbd0921 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781400236169https://amzn.to/4qNKqHp Lessons from Thought Leaders - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781735742861https://amzn.to/4qaJLQwBecoming Your Best Self: Lessons on Resilience, Attitude and Personal Growth - https://amzn.to/49j9Y9OPodcasts mentioned:Real Money, Real life with Linda Grizely – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-money-real-life/id1831822405———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Jodi Vandenberg-Daves—leadership strategist, historian, and author of Leading With Courage: A Career-Long Guide for Idealistic Women—for a thought-provoking conversation about redefining leadership, navigating career transitions, and owning your influence at every stage of life.Drawing from her background as a professor, social justice advocate, and founder of JVD Consulting, Jodi shares how our earliest messages about gender and visibility shape perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and our willingness to lead. She explains how women can begin to rewrite those narratives by aligning with their values, setting internal and external boundaries, and embracing the unique strengths they bring to leadership—like emotional agility, collaboration, and cultural humility.Desiree and Jodi also explore the power of intergenerational wisdom, why courage is more of a daily practice than a grand gesture, and how journaling and storytelling can be healing tools for reclaiming our voices. You’ll learn practical strategies to manage triggers, reframe "missed opportunities," and give yourself permission to lead boldly in work and life—even without a formal title.Whether you’re a rising professional, a mid-career leader juggling caregiving, or a seasoned woman reflecting on your legacy, this episode is a generous invitation to see yourself as a change-maker with something meaningful to contribute.Bio:I grew up in the exurbs of Chicago, a union electrician dad, and an at-home-mom-turned-realtor. I learned about solidarity at a young age, and then had my world opened by the curiosity-inducing adventures of academia, especially its winding paths through history. Got my PhD in History, and fell in love with stories of how people have made meaning out of their lives in all kinds of different circumstances. Intertwined with history has been social justice advocacy. And intertwined with that, my life passions of being a mother and a mentor. Through feminist and anti-racist lenses, I’ve helped nurture generations of leadership anchored in care and courage. I didn’t have a lot of mentoring when I was emerging in my career, but I really try to be the person I needed when I was younger.I love conversations about empowering diverse women’s voices and talents, career balancing acts, bold leadership anchored in progressive and humane values, and authenticity in the work we do in the world. I also love to talk about how, no matter who we are or what we’re doing, we can understand ourselves in the flow of history. We can learn from those who came before us, and from the young people who challenge and inspire us. I’m here for thoughtful conversations and surprising ideas.Connect with Jodi:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInResource:https://www.jodivandenberg-daves.com/onlineleadershipcourseBooks mentioned:Leading With Courage:  A Career-Long Guide for Idealistic Women by Jodi Vandenberg-Daveshttps://amzn.to/4pr3ytI  Poems in the Mother Tongue  by Jodi Vandenberg-Daveshttps://amzn.to/4pr2lmcUntapped Leadership Harnessing the Power of Underrepresented Leaders by Jenny Vazquez-Newsumhttps://amzn.to/4qa0pQhWhen We're in Charge The Next Generation’s Guide to Leadership by Amanda Litmanhttps://amzn.to/4su7Za3Podcasts mentioned:Brene Brown - Dare To LeadUnlocking Us———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this soulful and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Keri Nola—former psychotherapist turned spiritual mentor and healer—to explore the transformative power of shadow work, mature manifestation, and receiving with grace. Known as the Shadow Mama and Receptivity Queen, Keri brings her signature blend of wisdom and warmth to a conversation that invites us to drop the hustle, tune into our soul’s calling, and embrace the parts of ourselves we’ve long hidden away.Together, Keri and Desiree dive into why personal winters—those quiet, uncertain seasons of life—often hold the richest seeds of transformation. Keri shares how her own leap from a successful therapy practice into a more spiritually aligned business was not only terrifying but also deeply healing. They discuss what it means to engage in mature manifestation (hint: it’s not just about asking the universe for stuff) and how embracing receptivity is a radical, feminine act of abundance.You’ll also hear how grief can serve as a sacred portal for spiritual growth, and how tracking the everyday expressions of abundance—from compliments to creative ideas—can shift us out of scarcity and into expansion. Keri opens up about her intuitive process behind creating the Messages from Shadow oracle deck, offering listeners a glimpse into how shadow work can become a daily practice of self-trust, clarity, and empowerment.If you’re navigating a life transition, feeling stuck in old patterns, or simply ready to remember the truth of who you are, this conversation is your invitation to return to your inner wisdom—and receive what’s always been yours.Bio:Keri Nola, known as the Shadow Mama and Receptivity Queen, specializes in transforming scarcity consciousness and guiding Givers to receive and serve abundantly. With over a decade of experience as a Licensed Psychotherapist, Keri retired in 2017 and transitioned to a global mentor, guide, author, and podcaster. She now supports therapists, healers, and spiritually aware entrepreneurs in transmuting fear, activating their purpose, and harmonizing giving and receiving in alignment with Divine Will.Connect with Keri:Email: support@kerinola.comWebsite: https://kerinola.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keri_nola/Resources: Messagesfromshadow.comBooks mentioned:The Serviceberry Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781668072240https://amzn.to/3MZPJF2The Wisdom of Menopause (4th Edition) Creating Physical and Emotional Health During the Change by Christiane Northrup M.D. - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780525486138https://amzn.to/4q7eJIOExistential Kink Unmask Your Shadow and Embrace Your Power (a Method for Getting What You Want by Getting Off on What You Don't) by Carolyn Elliott PhD - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781578636471https://amzn.to/4pAKUAuPodcasts mentioned:The Telepathy Tapes by Ky Dickens - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-telepathy-tapes/id1766382649———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this deeply supportive episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Sue McCreadie—holistic pediatrician and midlife transformation guide—for an honest conversation about healing and navigating the beautifully complicated season of midlife. Drawing from her own journey through gut and hormonal imbalances, miscarriages, and spiritual awakening, Dr. Sue shares how midlife can be more than just a transition—it can be a powerful portal to joy, clarity, and deeper self-connection.Dr. Sue opens up about her shift from conventional medicine to a more integrative, spiritually grounded approach that blends science, psychology, and soulful tools like tarot and numerology. You’ll also hear why joy is not a luxury but a form of medicine, and how embracing your quirks and questions can lead to true transformation.Whether you're navigating midlife heartbreak, curious about the deeper meaning behind your symptoms, or simply craving more joy and connection, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to reclaim the vibrant woman you’ve always been.Bio:Dr. Sue is a holistic pediatrician and midlife transformation expert who helps women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s navigate hormones, heartbreak, and healing — so they can stop settling and start living with joy. Her mission: to make transformation simple, soulful, and even fun — because when women rise, we raise the vibration of the world for our children.Her journey from medical doctor to midlife transformation guide winds through years of gut and hormonal imbalances, miscarriages, relationship turning points, and the whole messy-beautiful process of becoming who she really is. What has she learned? The best medicine is your Soulfull Medicine — your own inner compass that always knows who you are and where you're meant to go.At Soulfull Medicine, we support wise, wondering midlife women who are ready to make this season of life count. Whether they feel lonely in marriage, lost in the daily grind, or just know deep down they were made for more — we help them shift. Gently. Powerfully. Permanently.We blend grounded tools (think: psychology, coaching, real-life science) with soulful ones (hello, tarot numerology!) to help women feel safe, seen, and spiritually supported. Whether it’s decoding emotional patterns, reigniting intimacy, or embracing faith during change, we guide women to discover their own version of freedom and fulfillment.I believe every path is divinely perfect, quirks are sacred, and joy is medicine.Connect with Dr. Sue:Email: drsue@drmccreadie.comWebsite: https://www.drsuemccreadie.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drsuemccreadieInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsuemccreadieResources:https://www.drsuemccreadie.com/soulfull-medicine-quiz-abundantBooks mentioned:What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Oprah Winfrey (Author), Bruce D. Perry - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781250223180https://amzn.to/4nBZd6HPodcasts mentioned:The Telepathy Tapes by Ky Dickens - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-telepathy-tapes/id1766382649

In this heart-opening and hilariously insightful episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley sits down with the multifaceted Merit Kahn, playwright, comedian, keynote speaker, and creator of the one-woman show Optimistic Personality Disorder™. Merit shares the deeply personal and refreshingly funny journey that led her to write and perform a show that unpacks life’s messiest plot twists—divorce, cancer, narcissists, motherhood, and more—with irreverent humor and emotional depth.Merit and Desiree explore how laughter can be a powerful healing tool, how journaling can unlock new perspectives, and how rewriting our personal narratives (literally and figuratively) can reshape the way we move forward. Merit reflects on the threads that have run through her life and how returning to “who you've always been” can be the most powerful transformation of all.She also dives into emotional intelligence, the concept of "anchored optimism," and why the simple question “Are you open to…” can be a gateway to possibility and change.Whether you're navigating change, looking to reframe your past, or just in need of a good laugh and some soulful insight, this episode is a must-listen.Bio:Merit Kahn is the playwright, producer, and performer of Optimistic Personality Disorder™, an inspiring, hilarious one-woman show for women navigating life’s messiest plot twists—divorce, cancer, narcissists, motherhood, empty nesting, and everything in between. It’s a rollercoaster of real-life stories told through stand-up, storytelling, and a healthy dose of irreverent optimism… because sometimes the only way through it is to laugh at it. But the show is just the opening act.Merit also leads Rewrite. Reset. Reimagine: The WorkShow Experience™—a transformational 24-hour retreat that blends personal development with powerful performance. It’s part workshop, part comedy show, and 100% devoted to helping you reframe your story and design your next chapter with clarity, courage, and maybe even a few cartwheels.Offstage, Merit is a professional keynote speaker and Emotional Intelligence expert who’s trained thousands of leaders and sales teams to show up with more humanity, authenticity, and impact. Her favorite audiences are the ones ready to laugh, learn, and let go of who they were supposed to be.Whether she’s on a stage, in a workshop, or on a podcast, Merit’s message is clear:You can’t change the past… but you can rewrite your past and rewire your future. It's my greatest joy in life to open people's minds to new possibilities.As a businessperson, I do that through keynotes, consulting, training & coaching on sales, influence, communication & leadership topics.As an entertainer, I do that through comedy performances and workshops that help you rewrite your past and re-ignite your future.Connect with Merit:EmailWebsiteFacebookLinkedInYouTubeBooks mentioned:Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck Influence by Robert CialdiniPodcasts mentioned: Mom's Unhinged Comedy The PodcastLife Coaching with Christine HasslerHere's a short video about the show

In this refreshing and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Lisa Haynes—retired CFO, retirement coach, and author of Retired and Killin’ It—to talk about reinventing life after corporate success and why retirement is really just the beginning of a bold new chapter. After three decades in corporate America, including a decade in the C-suite, Lisa walked away from her high-powered role to redefine retirement on her own terms—and now she helps others do the same.Together, Desiree and Lisa explore the emotional side of leaving full-time work, the challenges many professionals face in transitioning from “doing” to “being,” and why your sense of identity doesn’t have to retire when you do. Lisa introduces her signature Killin’ It formula—eight elements that help retirees design a life of joy, purpose, and meaning. Whether it’s legacy, creativity, health, or fun, Lisa shows that retirement is a chance to align with what truly lights you up.With warmth, humor, and practical insight, Lisa shares what it takes to navigate this transition with clarity and confidence—and how we can all start thinking differently about what success looks like in our later years.Whether you’re nearing retirement, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how to live with more intention, this episode is packed with uplifting wisdom and real-world tools for creating your most fulfilling chapter yet.Bio:Lisa Haynes is a retired Chief Financial Officer turned Retirement Coach, author, and speaker helping professionals redefine life after full-time work. After more than three decades in corporate America—including ten years as a CFO—Lisa stepped away from the C-suite to empower others to build purpose-driven, fulfilling retirements.She’s the founder and CEO of Haynes Executive Solutions, where she blends financial consulting with certified executive and retirement coaching. Lisa is also the author of Retired and Killin' It: The Ultimate Retirement Plan, a practical and inspiring guide based on her signature Killin' It formula, which highlights eight essential elements of a meaningful retirement.Lisa speaks to audiences about life transitions, legacy, reinvention, and the often-overlooked emotional side of retirement. Whether on stage or in her coaching practice, she brings clarity, humor, and a deep belief that retirement shouldn't be boring—it should be your best chapter yet.Connect with Lisa:Email: lisa@haynesexec.comWebsite: https://haynesexec.com/Website: https://www.retiredandkillinit.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/retiredandkillinitInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/retirednkillinit/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-j-haynes-cpa-mba/Books mentioned:Retired and Killin' It: The Ultimate Retirement Plan by Lisa J Haynes -https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9798987526125https://amzn.to/3JDzQ5C Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781538777800https://amzn.to/4a8kp0rPlaying Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead by Tara Mohr - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781592409600https://amzn.to/3KllTKo

In this powerful episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with leadership coach, speaker, and author Marianne Renner to explore how the stories we tell ourselves can hold us back—and how to break free from them. Marianne shares her deeply personal journey through decades of depression and addiction, and how changing her inner dialogue became the catalyst for healing, transformation, and success in every area of her life.Drawing from her new book Self-Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back...And How to Overcome Them, Marianne and Desiree unpack some of the most common self-limiting beliefs, like “I’m not enough,” “It’s too late,” or “I don’t belong”—and reveal how shifting your self-talk can change your entire trajectory. They also discuss practical tools for rewiring your mindset, building confidence, and leading yourself through periods of self-doubt and uncertainty.Whether you’re a leader feeling stuck, a professional navigating change, or simply someone ready to step into a more empowered version of yourself, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable wisdom to help you rewrite your internal narrative and take the next right step forward.Bio:Marianne Renner is a highly sought-after leadership coach and keynote speaker who has helped thousands of leaders remove self-imposed barriers and unleash their greatest potential.In her new book, Self-Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back…And How to Overcome Them, she shares the lessons she learned during a decades-long battle with depression and addiction to help growth-minded leaders who feel stuck.Marianne is a TEDx speaker whose previous books include the Chaos to Clarity Success Journal and Stop Thinking Like an Employee.From workaholism to alcoholism, Marianne tried everything to make the bad feelings go away. After decades of debilitating depression and addiction, she finally found the answer: changing her self-talk. Not only did the depression lift, but she saw every other outcome of her life transform, including her career, relationships and financial stability.Self-Talk is an inspiring revelation of ten common stories people tell themselves that sabotage their best efforts for success. The book is packed full of practical action steps to help you get unstuck and start moving forward in any area of your professional or personal life.Whether you’re seeking more confidence, greater purpose, or elevated success, Self-Talk will help you change the stories inside your head, break free from what holds you back, and regain control of your journey.With a Master’s Degree in Integrated Marketing Communications, Marianne has spent years studying human behavior and the “WHY” behind decisions people make.Connect with Marianne:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResources:https://mariannerenner.com/selftalkTEDx TalkBooks mentioned:Self Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself that Hold You Back…And How to Overcome Them https://amzn.to/3Vb6crbThe Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achorhttps://amzn.to/4ifujztPodcasts mentioned:The Oprah PodcastOprah’s Super Soul

In this eye-opening episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Taryn Voget, founder of Everyday Genius and creator of The Genius Lab, for a powerful conversation about unlocking the unique brilliance that lives within all of us. Drawing from her work with high-performing leaders, founders, and creatives (including those at SpaceX and The Gates Foundation), Taryn shares how identifying your personal genius isn’t about adding more hustle—it’s about understanding the subconscious patterns behind your success.Together, Taryn and Desiree explore the difference between talent and genius, why burnout often signals a misalignment with your deeper gifts, and how tuning into your innate brilliance can radically shift your career, relationships, and well-being. The conversation also touches on the intersection of intuition and logic, how to identify your core strengths, and why so many driven individuals feel stuck—even when things look successful on the outside. Taryn offers a fresh framework for accessing deeper clarity, refining your purpose, and making impactful decisions that are true to who you are.Whether you're a founder, creator, executive, or simply someone searching for more meaning in your work, this episode will leave you inspired to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the genius that’s already within you.Bio:Taryn Voget is the founder of Everyday Genius and creator of The Genius Lab, where she helps visionary leaders, founders, and creatives uncover the unique genius behind their success — and use it to create extraordinary results. A longtime executive consultant with a background in neuroscience, transformation, and intuitive healing, Taryn’s work blends sharp business strategy with deep inner insight. Her process reveals the subconscious patterns that drive brilliance, so clients can refine their craft, unlock next-level performance, and build what they’re truly here to build. She’s worked with leaders from SpaceX, The Gates Foundation, and VC-backed startups, and shares her insights on The Everyday Genius Show on YouTube.Connect with Taryn:Email: taryn@tarynvoget.comWebsite: www.everydaygenius.tvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/tarynvogetInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarynvoget/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarynvoget/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tarynvogetSubstack: https://tarynvoget.substack.com/TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@tarynvoget