Do The Thing

Fred Smith is a combat veteran, strategist, and founder of SpeedScaling.com—but that’s only the surface. In this raw and expansive conversation with Stacey Lauren, Fred shares what it means to live intentionally, work through trauma, and use every life experience (from door-to-door sales to rebuilding billion-dollar brands) as fuel for purpose-driven leadership. You’ll hear about: Fred’s struggle with PTSD after military service How climbing the business ladder became a coping strategy The invisible costs of success—and how he found healing Why he believes training is the answer to almost everything How nonprofits can thrive when structured with intention What it really means to do the thing with purpose and integrity Learn more at: SpeedScaling.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/A5mAA72iufI Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-combat-vet-to-ethical-empire-builder-fred-smith/id1618590178?i=1000733458403 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2jPvHQhf6iwB6maporC8vsJoin the community: DoTheThingCollaboration.com Timestamps:00:00 – How Fred went from combat to corporate03:00 – PTSD, performance, and the truth behind the grind10:00 – What finding your voice really looks like20:00 – From "businessman" to "humanitarian"34:00 – Advice for veterans, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs ready to step into their purpose

When first responders carry trauma like armor and silence becomes a survival strategy, how can we support those who show up for us day after day, crisis after crisis? In this powerful expert panel, hosted by Stacey Lauren and brought together by Kathryn Severns Avery of Restoration Ranch Colorado, you'll hear stories that rarely get told, truths that will reshape your understanding, and ideas that could spark nationwide change.This isn’t just conversation. It’s the beginning of a movement. Whether you’re a first responder, a family member, or simply someone who wants to help the helpers… this panel is for you.Panelists Stacey Lauren Kathryn Severns Avery Lynette Shaw Mare Brighton Todd Madison Jeff Santelli Robert (Bob) GrayTopics include:PTSD and cumulative trauma in police, fire, EMS, and medical staffRetirement identity loss and the question: “Who am I now?”Why first responders often won’t ask for help—and how to reach them anywayThe power of safe spaces, storytelling, and collective healingA vision for equine therapy, healthy meal programs, 24-hour child care, and moreA new challenge model designed to create awareness, fund missions, and change livesTimestamps00:00 — Introduction02:00 — Kathryn’s Story09:00 — Breaking the Silence30:00 — The Challenge Model59:00 — If Only They Knew… YouTube: https://youtu.be/-wRCIFzPDRU Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/they-serve-us-but-who-serves-them-first-responders/id1618590178?i=1000732453710 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6m91FCAW0MHVqCjp4Zmk

In this special panel episode of Do The Thing, host Stacey Lauren brings together an extraordinary lineup of leaders, veterans, therapists, nonprofit founders, and media innovators to launch the Billion Dollar Activation Campaign, a bold initiative to raise $1B for causes that matter through the power of challenges and shared action.This panel marks the official kickoff of a challenge-led movement focused on supporting veterans, first responders, and their families by helping them reconnect with their voice, community, and purpose.These aren’t just stories. They’re blueprints.You’ll hear raw truth, actionable frameworks, and the origin story of the new film project At Liberty, a collaboration fueled by real people doing the thing.Meet the Panelists:Kathryn Avery – Founder, Restoration RanchAshley Braund – Founder, Courageous Hearts CollectiveRyan Berman – Author, Courageous; Founder, Courageous Inc.Stacey Lauren – Host of Do The Thing, creator of the challenge modelCourtney Lawless – Career strategist, veteran advocateGeorge Makrinos – Filmmaker, veteran, creator of At LibertyRyan Montis – Veteran & mindset coachStacy May – Licensed Marriage & Family TherapistFred Smith – Corporate executive, Marine veteranLance Strong – Equine therapist, Army veteranMichael Wood – Founder, Turning SteelInside this Episode:- How challenges restore connection, purpose, and trust- Why silence is the enemy, and how to break it- What it really looks like to transition from service to significance- How nonprofits, creators, and companies can co-lead solutions- The story behind the At Liberty film and the movement it’s sparkingThis panel is for anyone who believes in collective action and is ready to stop talking and start doing.Learn more & join the mission: https://dothethingcollaboration.comExplore the film project: https://atlibertyfilm.comTimestamps:0:34 — Stacey introduces the Billion Dollar Activation Campaign3:03 — Fred Smith shares his combat story and corporate transition5:50 — Kathryn Avery on founding Restoration Ranch after loss12:18 — Michael Wood on storytelling and launching Turning Steel16:00 — Ashley Braund on serving teens of first responders22:40 — Ryan Berman on corporate courage and breaking the silence30:27 — Ryan Montis and H (Eliseo) on veteran purpose & challenge spaces40:00 — Courtney Lawless on job search trauma and hiring gaps49:00 — Lance Strong on horsemanship as trauma recovery56:55 — George Makrinos on the origin of At Liberty and creative service YouTube: https://youtu.be/c5IL9JVG2uw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-collective-action-panel-veterans-first-responders/id1618590178?i=1000731998391 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/13D6Hd8QhtXAIQ2thkBAIT

In this powerful episode of Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren interviews Asia Pimentel, an extraordinary destination photographer whose journey from rejection to recognition is packed with lessons on courage, creativity, and doing the thing even when you're terrified.Asia shares how she:- Was told she had “no talent” in her first photography job- Chose not to believe it and started her own business anyway- Built a thriving wedding photography brand with just one camera- Attracted high-level clients like Virgin Unite and photographed gatherings on Necker Island- Shifted her mindset around money, creativity, and purpose- Continues to grow through every comfort zone, fear, and self-doubtIf you've ever struggled with imposter syndrome, overthinking, or starting something new, this episode will move you.

In this extraordinary episode of Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren speaks with Olga Rudnieva, the powerhouse behind Superhumans Center, a state-of-the-art clinic in Ukraine providing surgery, prosthetics, and full rehabilitation to victims of war.Olga’s story isn’t just inspiring, it’s proof of what happens when you stop waiting and start doing. With no prior experience in prosthetics or hospital development, she returned to a war-torn country, crash-tested her vision, and built a movement that now serves thousands.This conversation dives into how to take action even when the path is unclear, how to build in the midst of chaos, and why collaboration beats isolation every time.Watch to learn:- What it means to say “yes” before you feel ready- How to build a mission-driven team that grows with you- Why bold ideas need relentless crash-testing- What it takes to create global partnerships under pressure- And how implementation, not ideas, is what changes livesTimestamps:2:02 — How Olga responded when war broke out while she was abroad8:14 — The moment a question changed everything: “What if we built a center?”15:40 — Building with no blueprint: how they got started with nothing24:09 — The real reason sharing your idea publicly is essential39:42 — Why helping one person is always worth it—and how it scales YouTube: https://youtu.be/9xt28qPK_csApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-olga-rudnieva-built-a-world-class-medical/id1618590178?i=1000724185897Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/54UNY4TYtm8aoy8tBKWdK9

In this in-depth conversation, Stacey Lauren, founder of Do The Thing and creator of the Find Your Voice Challenge, shares with Chrissy McDannell how a simple, repeatable challenge framework has become a global force for action, collaboration, and transformation.From college students to CEOs, this episode unpacks how Find Your Voice and other Do The Thing challenges are helping people stop overthinking and start leading. Stacey reveals how this method has activated teams, deepened connections, and even raised funds for nonprofits. Whether you lead a community, run a company, or simply want to make a bigger impact, this episode is for you.Watch to discover:- The challenge framework powering movements and momentum- How it works across platforms like Facebook, Circle, and WhatsApp- Real-world transformations from dating cohorts to corporate teams- How companies can train internal challenge hosts or partner with trained pros- Stacey’s plan to raise $1 billion for charity through these challengesTimestamps:2:36 — What is Do The Thing? Why it works across industries5:10 — Inside the Find Your Voice Challenge10:42 — Why this works for introverts and high-level execs alike18:09 — Real-world challenge success stories: dating, bookkeeping, aerospace33:54 — Stacey’s 3-part vision: challenge hosts, nonprofit partnerships, and global change YouTube: https://youtu.be/UuQmXgtpF8M Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-stacey-lauren-is-activating-communities-and/id1618590178?i=1000723240775 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3PlEJBQGq9QnD5aKLYRJRl

If you’ve been spinning in circles wondering what to name your offer or waiting until your website is perfect, this conversation will snap you out of it. Lyn Diane, the Dream Launch Queen, joins Stacey Lauren for a walk-and-talk that turns into a masterclass on bravery, simplicity, and getting your dream off the backburner. You’ll hear how Lyn got unstuck by hosting a Find Your Voice Challenge and how you can do the same.Learn how challenges create community, clarity, and momentum and why your overthinking isn’t helping anyone. This is for movement makers who are ready to show up and finally do the thing.Timestamps:0:54 – Why overthinking keeps us stuck2:18 – The power of instant feedback5:07 – How hosting a challenge activates clarity10:13 – Promote your book or business the easy way16:28 – What a Super Bloom has to do with your dream YouTube: https://youtu.be/OmmvyAO9buE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lyn-diane-thought-she-had-to-be-ready-she-didnt/id1618590178?i=1000720422312 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZAlgNFSmZDzVMw5nBHRow

What if your love of comics could change the world? Gareb Shamus, founder of Wizard Magazine and Comic-Con, joins Stacey Lauren to share how he created a global movement that redefined what it means to be a fan, and how he helps others unlock their creative expression today. In this episode, Gareb opens up about: 0:00 - The comic that changed everything 5:52 - Starting Wizard Magazine with a fax machine 11:14 - Building Comic-Con into a global phenomenon 18:03 - Why self-expression is key to personal growth 24:20 - How art and community fuel transformation #DoTheThing #GarebShamus #ComicCon #WizardMagazine #MovementBuilder #SelfExpression #BuildCommunity #CreativeLeadership #PopCulture #PurposeDriven YouTube: https://youtu.be/LDtPr-EBSxU Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-gareb-shamus-built-comic-con-and-changed-pop/id1618590178?i=1000719216419 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4HTFiiDrzJZ8XaT3psjRxq

What if keeping your word could change your life and someone else’s?In this episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren sits down with Alex Sheen, the founder of Because I Said I Would, to explore the story behind his global movement, viral promise cards, and new grief recovery retreat center.From the eulogy that launched a worldwide nonprofit to the challenges of building a sustainable impact model, Alex shares powerful lessons on resilience, vulnerability, and the simple act of showing up.In this conversation:• How “Because I Said I Would” began with a eulogy• Why promise cards are about mental health, not motivation• What grief, growth, and generosity have in common• Why Alex built a camp instead of a media empire• How collective action and community create real changeTimestamps:00:00 How Stacey met Alex and what inspired this episode02:05 The origin of "Because I Said I Would"09:10 Why Alex created a retreat center instead of a show14:00 Grief as a humanitarian issue, and what helps24:30 Alex’s advice on doing the thing, without needing motivation YouTube: https://youtu.be/Gj0q1K3Kmyw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alex-sheen-on-how-to-keep-promises-that-change-lives/id1618590178?i=1000717573061 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2Dn8vNqcEkmyXUdOwRVUNN

What does it really mean to Own Your Play?For these five inspiring women, it meant learning to show up, take chances, embrace creativity, and build connection, all on their own terms.In this Own Your Play Expert Panel on The Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren and cohost Laura Carney lead an incredible conversation about what it really means to Own Your Play—how to stop chasing perfection, lean into creativity, and how play becomes a catalyst for courage, leadership, and growth. This conversation is part of a special challenge happening inside the Modern Prairie community right now. If you’re ready for a fresh perspective on what’s possible for you, this will absolutely inspire you.In this conversation you will hear:- How to stop waiting for permission- Why embracing play fuels connection, leadership, and healing- The ripple effect of small acts of courage- How owning your play helps you find your people and purpose- The power of community-centered challengesTimestamps:00:00 How the Own Your Play panel came to life03:25 What owning your play means for each panelist12:10 How small, playful actions build confidence and leadership21:00 Breaking free from perfection and finding your voice32:15 Why community challenges accelerate connection and courage YouTube: https://youtu.be/8aGkw3xzKGE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/own-your-play-how-5-leaders-turned-play-into-purpose/id1618590178?i=1000714244526 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3PMhIZaw4XknjYTI6Qvv6a

Jami Dubs didn’t set out to lead—but when she found a challenge that made her feel alive again, she couldn’t help but bring others with her.In this episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Jami and host Stacey Lauren explore how Jami went from participant to leader to leader of leaders in the Modern Prairie community. She shares how journaling transformed her classroom, how she used her background in education to spark connection, and why leadership is more about listening and trust than direction and rules.They also talk about how challenges like “Find Your Voice” are making their way into schools, how to meet people exactly where they are (even when they can’t go outside), and what happens when women create fun, thoughtful, inclusive spaces—together.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: How Jami got started and met Stacey03:10 – Using journaling to transform connection in the classroom07:45 – Helping students explore loneliness, joy, and identity12:50 – The power of prompts and emotional safety18:30 – Bringing Do The Thing Challenges into schools23:00 – From “just watching” to co-leading and leading leaders27:15 – The magic of group dynamics and trust31:45 – What real community leadership looks like36:05 – Adapting dares for accessibility (and how it changed everything)42:20 – The power of fun, freedom, and feedback49:00 – Advice for anyone thinking about stepping into leadership YouTube: https://youtu.be/SyylUiPPwrk Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jami-dubs-became-a-leader-of-leaders-without/id1618590178?i=1000711941450 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7wsMOc5pd8oakdGQmtnLQk

What does it really take to build a thriving online community? (Hint: It’s not more content.) In this episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren talks with Jane Stecyk, VP of Lifecycle Marketing at Mighty Networks, about the strategy behind successful communities—including the common pitfalls people make, and the magic that happens when you connect people through shared transitions. We cover:✔️ Why successful communities are built around transitions, not niches✔️ How to turn quiet groups into buzzing ecosystems of support✔️ What “people magic” means—and how to engineer it with tech✔️ The 9-step framework Mighty Networks uses to power million-dollar communities✔️ How AI can enhance connection without replacing people 🎧 Listen in and discover how real communities are built—from the inside out. Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Stacey on community building and activation03:18 – Jane’s role at Mighty Networks and how she defines “community”08:10 – Why content alone won’t build connection12:30 – What “people magic” is and how Mighty uses AI to spark it17:15 – The transition principle: how to design a community that works24:55 – The 9-step framework that powers Mighty’s million-dollar communities33:40 – How to craft your offer and create a “magical first experience”40:05 – Pricing psychology: why charging makes communities more valuable47:22 – Final thoughts on curiosity, weird niches, and the value of doing the thing YouTube: https://youtu.be/ABHAokFbp2k  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jane-stecyk-how-to-build-a-million-dollar-community/id1618590178?i=1000708827264 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0fgwKFjYIfgvKSUHe8s68J

When most kids in her sport had million-dollar ponies, Sam Beiter had something else: grit, patience, and a deep love for the horses no one else wanted. In this episode of Do The Thing, Sam shares how she turned that scrappy beginning into a career as a trusted horse trainer and lease specialist—proving that you don’t need privilege to build power. We talk about her path from "late bloomer" to professional rider, what horses can teach us about leadership, and how she trains animals (and people) to trust again. If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to meet someone—or something—where they are, this one’s for you. Timestamps:0:00 – Sam’s first podcast ever (and how she got here)3:32 – The early days: used ponies, big lessons6:10 – Why every horse has value (and every person does too)10:55 – Leadership without domination: how horses taught her to lead17:12 – Horses, heart rate, and healing: the science behind the magic YouTube: https://youtu.be/IEejoacbKTw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sam-beiter-turned-unwanted-horses-into-champions/id1618590178?i=1000707880716 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1rA6htjIhwOOL8ytf5jhP0

What if starting a movement didn’t require an audience, a strategy, or a business plan—just a willingness to be seen? In this impromptu live episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Stacey Lauren chats with Mike Rinehart, a quiet force in the Find Your Voice Challenge, whose simple decision to show up and say yes sparked a ripple effect. Together, they talk about what it means to lead with love, move through comfort circles, and build momentum by doing the thing before you’re ready. You’ll hear:✔️ How Mike went from hiding to helping others find their voice✔️ The moment he decided to stop waiting and start creating✔️ What “let love lead” really looks like in messy, daily action✔️ How movements start with one person—and why that’s enough Timestamps:00:00 – Why Stacey felt pulled to go live with Mike03:40 – Mike’s experience in the Find Your Voice Challenge07:55 – The power of sharing your voice even when it’s not polished13:25 – “Let love lead”: what it means and where it came from19:40 – The new comfort circles and how Mike is moving through them26:50 – Monetizing with meaning: Stacey’s take on doing it with integrity33:10 – Creating a movement without a massive audience38:05 – What’s next for Mike—and how the community can support him YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ee3xuWTZQgo Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-mike-rinehart-let-love-lead-and-sparked-a-movement/id1618590178?i=1000705996320 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6WE5b5szn4xZ7y0GYjUrtD

What if your dreams aren’t just wishes—but living intentions that can guide you toward a bigger life? In this inspiring episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Mare Brighton joins Stacey Lauren to share the art and practice of Dreamlifting—a method for identifying, supporting, and activating your dreams (and the dreams of others). You’ll learn:✔️ How to create your “Living List” of 50 dreams✔️ Why witnessing and sharing dreams accelerates their growth✔️ How to reactivate your confidence by celebrating your done list✔️ How Dreamlifting can transform relationships, family dynamics, and community impact Whether you’re looking for personal motivation or a new way to connect with others, this conversation will spark new energy around what’s possible. Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introduction to Dreamlifting04:45 – How a tragedy inspired Mare’s mission to lift dreams10:12 – Why having 50 active dreams changes everything15:50 – The difference between a "nudge" and a "dare"22:10 – The magic of sharing and witnessing dreams28:00 – How Dreamlifting heals isolation and boosts action34:18 – How to get started with your own dream list40:00 – Mare’s live bootcamp and how to join44:30 – Closing: What dreams are you ready to lift? YouTube: https://youtu.be/tbqYg8pgxBY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mare-brighton-how-to-activate-your-dreams-and-lift/id1618590178?i=1000705050022 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0DGobPbKvSOqmAP8eNKL1m

How do you build a community that actually connects—not just scrolls, likes, and disappears?In this special Do The Thing Podcast panel episode, Stacey Lauren brings together seven brilliant women from across industries who’ve built activated, purpose-driven communities. Together, they unpack the real patterns behind deep connection and consistent engagement—and what most people get wrong when trying to lead a group, grow an audience, or “find their people.”You’ll learn:✔️ Why shared transitions matter more than shared interests✔️ The #1 mindset shift that turns passive members into co-leaders✔️ How digital platforms can actually make connection deeper✔️ What community looks like when it runs on purpose, not egoFeaturing:• Jane Stecyk – VP Marketing, Mighty Networks• Nicole Haase – CEO, Modern Prairie• Amanda Black – Founder, Solo Female Traveler Network • Eileen Wilder – Founder of Wild & Free• Christina Rowe – Founder, Women Helping Women Entrepreneurs• Felena Hanson – Founder, Hera Hub• Laura Carney – Author of "My Father's List"Timestamps:00:00 – Stacey’s opening: Why “find my people” matters now06:12 – Jane on transitions as the key to belonging12:45 – Amanda on creating courage locally and globally18:05 – Nicole on safety and softness in digital space23:20 – Christina on generosity and platform-sharing28:50 – Felena on scaling support for entrepreneurs34:30 – Eileen on voice, confidence, and virtual energy40:15 – Laura on legacy, loss, and finding connection through action47:00 – Closing reflections and challenge preview

In this episode of Do the Thing, Stacey Lauren sits down with EOS Implementer Dennis Van Baale to explore what it really takes to build a rockstar leadership team. From the power of vulnerability to the quiet wisdom of team members like “Jenny,” Dennis shares the tools and mindset shifts that help businesses grow—from $3M to $300M.They also dive into Stacey’s At Liberty movement, the surprising lessons horses can teach us about leadership, and the real difference between those who succeed and those who walk away.Whether you’re leading a company, building a team, or just trying to stay grounded while you grow, this conversation will change the way you think about trust, vision, and connection.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with founders, visionaries, and everyday people doing the thing.Timestamps:00:00 – Why business owners don’t fail—they burn out08:12 – Who “Jenny” is and how to help her speak17:30 – How horses and equine therapy relate to business27:45 – What EOS really is (and why most businesses wait too long)44:40 – Why surrounding yourself with the right people is everything YouTube: https://youtu.be/yeyvHUKGd7c Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dennis-van-baale-on-eos-vulnerable-leadership-and-how/id1618590178?i=1000703744874 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0mhmg3U1le9gUo7JN7VjNA

How do you turn a deeply personal gap in the market into a global movement? In this episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Shafonne Myers shares how she went from plus-size bride and wedding planner to CEO of a global wedding publishing network—starting with the world’s first blog dedicated to plus-size brides, Pretty Pear Bride. Shafonne didn’t just disrupt an industry—she redefined it. We dive into her journey of empowering others to share their voice, turning personal branding into a scalable movement, and why competition fades when you embrace your uniqueness. If you’ve been holding back on your voice, your business, or your next big thing—this episode is your signal to go. Keywords: plus-size bride blog, wedding industry transformation, women building movements, how to start a blog, monetize your voice, female CEO inspiration, content repurposing, wedding blogger network, inclusivity in weddings, how to find your personal brand Timestamps:00:00 – How a phone call led to a powerful collaboration02:44 – Starting the world’s first blog for plus-size brides06:13 – From solo blog to global publishing CEO11:04 – Personal brand vs. CEO role: how she balances both18:00 – The secret to momentum: make it fun25:30 – What stops most people from sharing their voice30:01 – Shafonne’s #1 piece of advice: “Your success is inevitable”YouTube: https://youtu.be/JAWxBm2oc1o Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shafonne-myers-built-a-global-wedding-movement/id1618590178?i=1000703263324 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4PcUNGeS6YENd1psUaKB1B

What if your hardest experiences could become your greatest gift?In this episode of The Do The Thing Podcast, Melissa Beckham opens up about how her caregiving journey led her to find her voice, launch a podcast, and support others who feel alone. After caring for both her parents, navigating the healthcare system, and processing deep personal loss, Melissa realized the power of sharing her story.She didn’t have a plan or podcasting skills—just the courage to speak from the heart.And now? She’s creating space for other caregivers to feel seen, heard, and supported.🎧 If you've ever felt burned out, isolated, or unsure whether your story matters—this is the episode for you.Keywords: caregiving podcast, support for caregivers, finding your voice after loss, women starting over after 50, building community, podcasting after grief, healing through storytelling, advocacy for aging parents, how to ask doctors the right questions, Modern PrairieTimestamps:00:00 – Melissa's accidental journey into podcasting06:15 – From caregiving to community building14:28 – Why you don't need credentials to start helping people22:17 – Asking questions and advocating in the healthcare system29:50 – Her advice for anyone afraid to do the thing YouTube: https://youtu.be/kZkpHTEZYaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/melissa-beckham-became-a-voice-for-caregivers/id1618590178?i=1000702318176 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7sBzKGk5NyGWCVgKm9Dxzo

What if the secret to doing your thing starts with betting on yourself—even if it sounds delusional? In this episode, Deece Casillas shares how he walked away from a financially successful but soul-crushing business to pursue stand-up comedy full time. From sneaking late-night laughs as a kid to building his own touring production company and launching a sold-out comic book series, Deece reveals the raw truth behind creative freedom, resilience, and self-expression. If you’ve ever felt stuck, silenced, or scared to go all-in on your dream—this conversation will light you up.Featuring: Stand-up comic, podcast host, and comic book creator Deece CasillasNo fluff. Just the real story behind doing the thing. Timestamps:00:00 – The soul-sucking job he walked away from02:16 – The moment Deece got tricked into doing stand-up10:58 – How boxing, trauma, and comedy intersect18:47 – Selling out his comic book without a publisher26:30 – The trick to filling rooms and building loyal fans #DoTheThing #DeeceCasillas #StandupComedy #ComicBooks #FindYourVoice #Entrepreneurship YouTube: https://youtu.be/GUOIT1xOaD8 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deece-casillas-quit-the-sure-thing-to-chase/id1618590178?i=1000701931417 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/41wvNmjZStayNrzQIIaghx