Share Life: Stories & Systems To Live Better & Work Smarter — With Jason Scott Montoya

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> In this Fireside Chat, I discuss the integration of AI into everyday tools and workflows, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between humans and AI. I draw parallels with chess, illustrating how the most effective players are those who work alongside technology. I also highlight the potential of leveraging technology to enhance personal and professional capabilities, using the metaphor of Iron Man to illustrate how technology can empower individuals.For the written version of this, click here.

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> ---This episode is sponsored by DRS (Dominion Revenue Solutions), DRS is more than a medical billing company for home health and hospice agencies. They're a revenue transformation partner bringing about clarity and peace of mind. Find Lost Money. Improve cash flow and maximize your revenue. Click here to learn more.---That loved one won't wait. Stop everything and go see them now! 👋 Don't let regret be the final memory you have of a cherished friend or family member.Based on my experiences being present in the final moments of two beloved family members, I share these poignant stories to encourage you to act immediately on the impulse to visit those you love. After watching, you'll be armed with the conviction to eliminate the regret of a missed final visit and inspired to live a life of intentional connection that builds an abundance of treasured memories. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the Christian perspective on death as not an end but a transition, and how that belief empowers us to live courageously and trust in God's plan. ---For the written version, click here.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> What happens when a top-tier business strategist, certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt, decides to run for city council? You get an inspirational masterclass in high-level problem-solving applied directly to community leadership. In this exclusive interview for the Share Life podcast, I speak with Samantha Piovesan about her journey from delivering $100 million in budget project savings and investigating fraud at a Fortune 5 company, to her deeply personal commitment to the citizens of Sugar Hill, Georgia.---For additional links, video version, and resources related to this episode, click here.---Chapters00:00 Introduction to Samantha Piovesan03:28 Samantha's Early Life and Family Influence10:05 Advocacy and Autism Awareness14:41 Understanding Six Sigma and Its Importance18:27 The Value of Responsibility in Leadership21:35 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth26:39 Living Better and Working Smarter32:16 Systems Thinking in Governance36:06 The Importance of History and Storytelling39:39 Courage to Speak Up and Address Red Flags41:10 The Role of Systems in Society44:38 Samantha's Vision for Sugar Hill City Council

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> ---Sponsored by Dominion Revenue Solutions. Dominion is more than a medical billing company for home health and hospice agencies. They're a revenue transformation partner bringing about clarity and peace of mind.---As a former marketing agency owner, I learned that even if you can’t pay top salaries, you can build an insanely loyal and high-performing team—but it requires intentional effort and avoiding the biggest mistakes. In this video, I share the counterintuitive truth about talent retention: relying on money alone leads to burnout and high turnover. I break down my proven framework for attracting the right people, cultivating a powerful culture through "pull leadership," and making your business a vehicle for your employees’ success. Watch now to learn the key mindset shifts and practical strategies that will transform your team's commitment and make your business truly sustainable.---For the written version with links, click here.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> Ever wonder why so many creative businesses fail when the market shifts? In this deep-dive interview, my old friend Nathan McGill and I unpack the brutal cycle of reinvention, from the collapse of his film studio after an IRS audit and personal struggle with addiction, to his launch of a new AI-focused marketing company. Discover the three critical systems—financial margin, clear messaging (StoryBrand), and spiritual priority—that are non-negotiable for long-term survival in any volatile industry. ---For the video version, additional episode notes and resources, click here.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> What does it take to truly change your life's trajectory? On this episode of the Share Life podcast, I sit down with my neighbor, Alvin Hicks, a dedicated Sugar Hill City Councilman, to trace his incredible journey from growing up in government-subsidized housing in inner-city Richmond, Virginia, to becoming a respected public servant and AT&T network operations manager in Georgia. Alvin shares the foundation of faith instilled by his grandmother, the specific intervention that prompted his "leap of faith" move in '96, and the mindset he adopted to break generational patterns and embrace the value of "no excuses." When you finish watching, you will gain powerful insights on living better, the power of mentorship, how to embrace "working smarter" through aligning effort with strategy, and the necessity of cognitive empathy in leadership. For additional episode links, resources, and the video version, click here.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> Join me for this inspirational interview with the Mayor of Sugar Hill, GA, Brandon Hembree, as we unpack his journey from lifelong resident to city leader and how he balances faith, family, and public service. Mayor Hembree shares the hidden truth about local governance—why these elections affect your daily life more than national politics—and offers practical advice on how to get involved, find community, and start thriving right where you live. Discover the simple habits and mindset shifts of effective local leadership and why your complacency is the price you pay for isolation.For notes, links, and additional episode resources, click here.

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> Ever feel stuck, wanting to chase your passion but lacking the resources? Let me take you back to a pivotal moment when I leveraged a seemingly random opportunity – Extreme Makeover Home Edition coming to town – to finally break into video production. I'll share how I turned a computer repair gig into my first paid video project, even without owning a professional camera!For the written version, links and more, click here.---Discover how to earn 6 figures working part-time as a freelancer >>>

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> What happens when a fighter pilot with over 200 combat missions trades the cockpit for a crisis management office? In this insightful interview, retired Air Force Major General Jack Briggs reveals the most valuable lessons he learned from decades of high-stakes, life-or-death decisions—lessons that every leader, parent, and individual can apply today. You'll discover the three principles for making the best possible decisions in a crisis, how to find your true worth, and the secret to helping people when they are in their deepest need.Learn the blueprint to living an integrated life of integrity and purpose. By the end of this conversation, you'll be equipped to act as a thermostat—not just a thermometer—in your own life and community.For additional notes, links, and episode resources, click here.

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> The dream of writing a book is within your reach, but what's the first step? Many people think it's a huge time commitment, but I'll show you how I wrote my first book, Path of the Freelancer, in just 18 months, by dedicating only one hour a day. Click here for the written version.

Episode type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> Are you a business owner constantly feeling pulled in a million directions? Do you feel like you're doing too many things and inevitably dropping the ball sometimes? If you're nodding along, know that you're not alone. This feeling of being stretched thin is common, but it's not sustainable.Based on insights from a recent coaching session with a client, let's explore some principles that can help you move from feeling overwhelmed to operating with more clarity and control.Read the written version of this monologue.---Get the Jump: From Chaos to Clarity For Your Striving Small Business

Episode Type: Fireside ChatWatch on YouTube >>> As an entrepreneur, are you truly articulating the core benefit you provide to your customers? I've seen firsthand how focusing on tangible outcomes, such as giving clients back precious time with their kids or alleviating the stress of unreliable business partners, transforms a business. This video delves into how understanding your customers' true perception of your value – the "emotional core" – is your secret ingredient for growth and becoming the indispensable solution they're desperately seeking. Stop waiting for rescue, and discover the adventure of aligning your values with their needs.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewDo you ever feel like you're in a personal "riptide" just trying to survive?Sometimes, we've been in "survival mode" for so long, we don't even realize it. My friend Leslie Haynes lived this reality, pushing through layers of profound trauma.She looked like she was thriving on the outside, but inside, her body was screaming, "Get out."At 31, she was bedridden, and all of it was tied to unprocessed trauma.But Leslie's story is not just about pain; it's about a counterintuitive path to healing. She discovered that what is broken in relationships has to be restored in relationships. She found a way to stop hiding and start living fully—not by being tougher but by becoming curious.In our conversation, Leslie revealed a few things that might just flip your perspective on its head:Why "any connection is better than no connection" is a lie that can keep you trapped.How unprocessed trauma can literally cause physical paralysis.Why "choosing your hard" is one key to finally moving forward.Are you ready to find out what your body has been trying to tell you all along?Watch my full inspirational people interview with Leslie on the Share Life podcast to hear her journey from a shell of a person to being fully alive.P.S. You don’t have to fight your battle alone. The right people will choose to stay.-----For additional notes, links, and referenced resources, click here.

Episode Type: Share Life Academy WorkshopWatch on YouTube >>>Tired of feeling alone in a crowded room?It's a silent struggle. You're around people, even family or friends, but that deep isolation hits. Why? You think more connections will fix it. You think being busy helps. Think again.We're facing a connection crisis. Loneliness is a public health crisis, just like smoking 15 cigarettes a day. And most advice misses the point.What if the problem isn't just being alone? What if it's how we're connecting? We're more online than ever, but these digital bonds often lack depth. You might even be trapped by your own internal story.Curious how our modern world makes loneliness worse? What if your efforts to connect are actually pushing people away? Or what if that person you thought you knew, you absolutely didn't?Want the surprising revelation?Listen to the full conversation now to unmask the hidden costs of our hyper-connected world and find out what makes it better.P.S. If you've ever asked, "What's wrong with me?" when you feel lonely, you're not alone. This video validates your experience and offers a smarter path forward.-----Untangled Narrative (Jim Karwisch) WebsiteOrganic Endeavors (Allen Helms) Website-----For additional resources, links, and notes, click here.

Episode Type: Listen-To-LearnWatch on YouTube >>In this Listen-To-Learn episode of the Share Life podcast, you'll discover:Why B2B is about trust and relationships, and trying to use low-trust marketing tactics can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars.The "delegate and ditch" mistake nearly every founder makes when they hire their first salesperson. How you can be wildly successful with just one sales channel, not the ten that everyone tells you that you need.Connect With Josh SweeneyConnect with Josh >>> LinkedInFounderScale >>> Website - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> What if the popular advice about retirement is completely wrong for you?In this Share Life Podcast discussion with Kassi Hyde, I cut through the noise and expose a few truths:The Roth 401k mistake: Everyone is saying you need to "push Roth." But if you're in a high tax bracket, that advice could cause you to pay a lot more in taxes. It simply doesn't fit for everybody.The "perfect life" illusion: It's easy to get wrapped up in what other people have. But you're not seeing what they don't have—or what they've given up to get there.The advisor red flag: If your advisor ever dismisses your questions by saying, "Don't worry, I got this," that is not a way to do business. Trust is built on answers.Connect With Kassi HydeConnect with Kassi | Website - LinkedIn---For additional notes, links, and resources related to the podcast episode, click here.---Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your situation.

Episode Type: Inspirational People InterviewWatch on YouTube >>> For 30 years, Brady Pyle navigated these exact challenges inside NASA. In this Inspirational People interview on the Share Life podcast, he shares what it’s like to lead through massive change. In this episode, you'll learn:The surprising reason NASA pushed to get people back on-site after the pandemic. It wasn't about productivity, but a concern that "we might be missing some serious safety issues."How they became the "best place to work in government for 12 straight years" by doing a few specific things any organization can do. The one thing his mentor told him that changed how he balanced his work and family life during a critical project.How do you make the tough cuts without losing the mission? Find out in this inspirational people interview.---Connect With Brady PyleConnect with Brady | Website - LinkedInGet Brady's Book >>> Amazon >>> Out of This World Leadership: Living the Fruit of the Spirit to Lead Well---For additional notes, links, and episode-related resources, click here.

Episode Type: Listen to LearnWatch on YouTube >> In this episode of the Share Life podcast, Jason Montoya speaks with Dana and Bill Wichterman, authors of 'Stewards Not Owners.' They explore the concepts of stewardship versus ownership, the importance of aligning money with faith, and the role of generosity in overcoming fear and loneliness. The conversation delves into sustainable solutions for poverty alleviation, the impact of investments, and the significance of community in financial stewardship. The Wichtermans share personal insights and practical advice for living a life of purpose and impact through responsible financial practices.---For additional notes, transcript, links, and related resources, click here.---Connect With the WichtermansConnect with Dana & Bill Wichterman >>> Website - Instagram - YouTube - Linkedin - Facebook - XGet the book: Stewards Not Owners Book on AmazonChapters00:00 Introduction to Stewardship and Purpose04:08 The Journey of Stewardship: Personal Stories06:42 Understanding Stewardship vs. Ownership09:49 The Role of Money in Stewardship12:39 Charity vs. Sustainable Solutions15:44 Real-World Examples of Impactful Stewardship18:34 Navigating Challenges in Stewardship21:36 Defining Good and Bad Investments24:26 The Importance of Community and Common Good27:18 Individualism vs. Stewardship Mindset29:55 Generosity as an Antidote to Loneliness31:42 The Joy of Giving and Retirement35:25 Creative Stewardship and Financial Wisdom39:35 Personal Financial Philosophy and Growth43:14 Living Below Your Means and Avoiding Greed49:01 Tracking Spending and Community Accountability51:16 Resources for Stewardship and Impact Investing57:21 matilda-exit-voice-with-music.mp3.wav57:44 the-jump-promo-ad-music.mp3.wav

Episode Type: Inspirational PeopleWatch on YouTube >>> ---In this conversation with entrepreneur John Chan, co-founder of 2X Growth Agency, he exposes the counterintuitive secrets behind truly effective design and why so much of what you see out there just… doesn’t work.---Connect With John ChanConnect with John | LinkedIn2x Growth Agency | Website - LinkedIn - Facebook - Instagram---For additional resources, links, and show notes, click here.

Episode Type: Listen to LearnWatch on YouTube >> Do you dream of writing a book, but something holds you back? Maybe it's the **fear** of not being "expert enough" or not having "great writing skills." You might even tell yourself you're "too old, too young, too this or too that." It's a common struggle, and it can take years to get your work done.But what if the very act of writing could change everything for you and your business? This Listen to Learn episode of the Share Life podcast with Denise Renee reveals why most people get book writing all wrong. You'll discover: Why your book is **not for everybody** (and why that's a good thing). The "house of cards" you might be building is holding you back. How even "professional writers" face the same fears you do. The surprising reason your *first* book might not be what you think. Are you ready to stop holding yourself back? Watch the full discussion with Denise Renee now to uncover the truth and move from fear to finished! P.S. If you’ve felt like giving up on your book, you're not alone. We'll show you what works.Connect With Denise ReneeConnect with Denise Renee >>> Website - YouTube - LinkedInThe Four Steps to Writing Your Book >>> WebsiteThe Writer's Toolkit | YouTube Playlist---For additional notes, resources, and links, click here.