Phoenix and Flame Podcast

In this episode, Dana is joined by Michael Levitt, founder of the Breakfast Leadership Network and self proclaimed "Chief Burnout Officer." Michael shares his personal story of being a high-achieving executive who pushed himself to the brink, working 6 AM to 11 PM seven days a week. This relentless drive led to a year of devastating consequences, including a near-fatal heart attack, job loss during the recession, and home foreclosure. He reveals how that immense pain became his greatest teacher, forcing him to recognize the dangerous red flags of burnout that so many driven entrepreneurs ignore.  Michael's Linkedin Breakfast Leadership 

In this episode, Dana is joined by Matt Gerlach, an entrepreneur who helped scale startups to 7 and 8-figures, only to find himself battling a severe mental health crisis after launching his own business. Matt shares his raw and honest journey of hitting rock bottom and how that pain became his greatest teacher. He reveals how he learned to reframe his struggles as "wake-up calls," setting firm boundaries to move from a survival-driven mindset to a life of authentic purpose and freedom. Matt's Linkedin Matt's Website

Host Dana Skaggs sits down with Abagail McKiernan, founder of the nonprofit HelpLink, to uncover the deeply personal story that inspired her mission. What began as a moment of isolation became a movement rooted in unconditional generosity. Together, they explore how giving without expectation can restore dignity, forge authentic community, and remind us that the kindness we extend often finds its way back when we need it most. Abagail's Linkedin  HelpLink

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs sits down with three-time bestselling author and forgiveness coach Katharine Giovanni to talk about the idea of forgiveness—we’re told to do it, but rarely taught how. Katharine explains that forgiveness isn’t about excusing someone’s behavior or even reconciling with them; it’s a tool for your own healing. She shares a practical, step-by-step method for releasing the emotional charge from painful memories so you can stop letting people live “rent-free” in your head. Along the way, she highlights the connection between forgiveness and boundaries, showing that letting go of anger doesn’t mean letting someone back into your life. Katharine's Linkedin Katharine's Website  

In this episode, host Dana Skaggs sits down with Kristal Desantis to talk about why traditional masculinity is struggling in modern relationships. Kristal describes what she calls the “broken script,” where old-school roles of men as sole protectors and providers clash with today’s need for emotional partnership. This leaves a lot of men caught in a “masculinity trap”—criticized for being too stoic but judged when they open up. The two dive into topics like emotional safety, touch starvation, and the pressure to measure up to narrow definitions of worth. Kristal also shares her “STRONG” model, a down-to-earth framework to help men move past performative roles and create healthier, more genuine connections. Kristal's Linkedin Kristal's Website

In this episode, host Dana Skaggs is joined by fellow boundaries coach Barb Nangle, who shares her journey of navigating what she calls "relational trauma." She reveals how trauma can take the form of a quiet, ongoing pattern of emotional invalidation, not just a sudden, explosive moment. Through 12-step recovery, Barb discovered a path to healing and reframes boundary-setting as an act of integrity and peace rather than confrontation. This conversation offers insight into how these practices can help you live with greater alignment and purpose. Barb's Linkedin Barb's Website

Join host Dana Skaggs and organizational researcher Craig Mattson as they dive into the pressures of the modern workplace. Using powerful metaphors like "the wave" of digital overwhelm and the "life raft" of coping strategies, they explore why remote work often feels confusing and detached. The conversation tackles the big question: "Should I quit if my job feels meaningless?" Craig reveals the four distinct ways people find purpose—from changing the world to simply surviving the day. Ultimately, they argue that in an era of constant change, your greatest skill isn't what you do, but your ability to adapt your perspective and find meaning, even if it feels like you're just a cup of water in an ocean. Craig's Linkedin Craig's Blog

In this episode, Matt O'Neill reveals how to achieve "conscious happiness" even when life feels chaotic. He explains that the common belief of "I'll be happy when..." is a deceptive trap that keeps us constantly striving but never satisfied. Matt reframes negative moods not as personal flaws, but as predictable functions of our "survival brain" that can be overcome. His solution is a set of simple, powerful habits—like gratitude and affirmations—that can be woven into your busiest days without taking extra time. This episode teaches you the skills to stop waiting for perfection and start being happy while life is messy. Matt's Linkedin Matt's Website  

In this episode, Dana Skaggs is joined by neurodiversity advocate Khushboo Chabria, who shares her journey to empowerment after a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis. Khushboo explains why feeling misunderstood isn't a personal failure but often a sign of a workplace culture that lacks true acceptance. She introduces a powerful mindset shift: replacing judgment with "compassionate curiosity." Learn how to stop trying to “fix” yourself, advocate for your unique needs, and find the environment where you can truly thrive. Khushboo's Linkedin  

In this episode, Dana is joined by coach Arnold Beekes to talk about his journey from a rigid upbringing rooted in extreme conformity to a life of authenticity. Arnold shares how most of us are "conditioned" from a young age, losing sight of what we truly want and living to meet other people’s expectations. He breaks down why comparison is a trap and introduces the “Art of Unconditioning”—a process for taking back your power. Learn how to stop chasing approval, start owning your uniqueness, and build the self-confidence to live a life that’s truly your own. Arnold's Website Arnold's Linkedin  

In this episode, Brad Chandler shares his journey of overcoming unresolved childhood trauma. Brad reveals how his subconscious belief of "not being enough" led to two divorces, millions in business losses, and struggles with anxiety and addiction. He explains that these negative behaviors were not flaws, but outdated survival mechanisms created by his brain in childhood. His breakthrough came not from traditional therapy, but through memory reconsolidation—a technique that rewrites the faulty neural pathways driving these actions. By accessing the subconscious mind, he was able to heal the root cause of his pain. Brad's Linkedin Brad's Linktree  

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, Dana Skaggs welcomes Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier, psychologist, executive coach, and author of The Resilience Plan, to discuss the critical role of mental health and resilience in high-performing professionals. Together, they explore why winging it doesn’t work when it comes to stress, how leaders often overlook their own mental health, and the power of having a personalized, strategic resilience plan. Dr. Pelletier explains how to plan for life’s challenges before they hit and why boundaries, clarity, and mental fitness are key to thriving rather than just surviving. The conversation emphasizes that building resilience is not a sign of weakness; it is essential for long-term success, especially in fast-paced or high-demand environments.  Dr. Pelletier's Linkedin The Resilience Plan

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, fitness coach and entrepreneur Petar Krastev shares how he went from arriving in the UK with just 10 Euros in his pocket to building a life grounded in faith, fitness, and entrepreneurship. He opens up about facing homelessness, toxic relationships, and the challenges of supporting a child in his early years—yet still finding the drive to keep moving forward. Petar explains how maintaining a fitness routine gave him strength when everything else was falling apart, and how his faith completely shifted his path, opening unexpected doors in both life and business.  Petar's Linkedin Petar's Website

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs welcomes happiness coach and co-founder of Limitless You, Yvonne Trost. Together, they explore the powerful journey of personal transformation. Yvonne shares her own inspiring story of overcoming significant life challenges including a devastating apartment fire, a difficult marriage, and a career change before learning to be herself again. She introduces a transformative three-step framework, emphasizing the crucial role of self-compassion and curiosity in breaking free from limiting beliefs and fears. The discussion continues into the science of neuroplasticity, the power of the imagination, and the importance of shifting from negative "what if" thinking to a more empowering "why not" approach. Lastly, Yvonne provides listeners with practical tools and resources for self-discovery, offering a clear path to unlock their limitless potential and create a more fulfilling life. Yvonne's Linkedin Yvonne's Website  

Victoria Pelletier is a highly accomplished corporate executive, board director, and author known as the "Turnaround Queen." She shares her remarkable journey of resilience, rising from a challenging childhood to achieving executive leadership roles by the age of 24 through sheer grit and determination. Along the way, she faced obstacles such as imposter syndrome and navigating bias as a queer woman in corporate environments. Victoria emphasizes the importance of DEI in the workplace and highlights the benefits of creating inclusive environments for all employees. She also offers practical advice on setting boundaries both personally and professionally and finding fulfillment beyond career success. Victoria's Books  Victoria's LinkedIn

Robert Hunt, also known as “The Accountability Guy,” is the co-author of Nobody Cares Until You Do. In this episode, Robert opens up about his journey—how he dug himself out of deep debt and a victim mindset by leaning into personal accountability. He breaks down the difference between just being responsible and actually owning your actions and outcomes. Along the way, he calls out some common traps we all fall into like blaming others, making excuses, saying “I can’t,” or just waiting around for things to change. Robert emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, even asking tough questions like, “Am I the common denominator in these conflicts?” He also talks about overcoming shame by separating your self-worth from your performance in work, relationships, or other roles.  Robert's Book Robert's Linkedin  

Winnie Rodgers, a real estate expert and marketing strategist, shares her journey of transformation and resilience. She discusses the importance of listening to one's intuition, navigating personal and professional boundaries, and empowering women in sales and entrepreneurship. Winnie shares her experiences in the real estate industry, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and the significance of morning rituals for grounding oneself. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-discovery and the power of community support among women. Winnie's website Winnie's Instagram profile  

In this enlightening conversation, Mette Reebirk, an author and executive coach, shares her journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. Mette emphasizes the importance of questioning our thoughts and narratives, understanding the connection between thoughts and emotions, and the power of self-reflection. She discusses the impact of leadership on personal well-being, the necessity of empathy in relationships, and the challenges of embracing diversity. Mette advocates for mindfulness and living in the moment, encouraging listeners to capture their thoughts and emotions while fostering curiosity and connection with others. Mette's Linked In page

In this solo episode, Dana Skaggs explores the complexities of setting and defending personal boundaries. She discusses the importance of understanding one's own emotional landscape, the fear of rejection, and the impact of past wounds on current behavior. Dana emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the role of support systems in navigating these challenges. Dana's Linked In Page Dana's website

Marni Battista, an entrepreneur, author, and transformational coach, shares her journey of rebuilding her life and finding meaning after experiencing hardships. She emphasizes the importance of creating a life that aligns with one's values and desires. Marni also discusses the challenges of dating and the need for self-love and self-worth in the dating process. She provides insights on overcoming comparison despair and finding clarity in one's financial situation. Marni's approach focuses on inner growth and empowerment to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. Marni's website Another route to Marni's website Marni's book: How to Find a Quality Guy: Without Going on 200 Dates Marni's book: Becoming Irresistible: How to Effortlessly Have Men Pursue You, Treat You Like a Goddess, and Commit to You for Life Marni's LATEST book! Your Radical Living Challenge