Staying Power

Episode 093: The Advice Filter: Friends, Pros, and the InternetWhen life gets messy, who should we turn to—and who should we avoid? This episode breaks down how to pick trustworthy advice-givers (and why that’s harder than it sounds), the psychology of why we sometimes chase the wrong voices, and a nuanced look at what online forums like Reddit get right and wrong. We’ll share research-backed filters, questions to ask before acting on advice, and simple practices to build your own “inner board of directors.”More from Staying Power:On the Radio: https://1150kknw.com/shows/staying-powerYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNEmail: stayingpowershow@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheStayingPowerNetworkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561752300713Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayingpowershow/Words by JDK: https://www.wordsbyjdk.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 092: Back to the Cards: More "Where Shall We Begin?"This week, Ashley and JD grant the requests of listeners to play another round of “Where Shall We Begin”, the game created by famed relationship therapist, Esther Perel. Questions ranging from a deeply serious to downright silly are asked and answered, with all revealing a great deal about the hosts as they build an even deeper connection!  More from Staying Power:On the Radio: https://1150kknw.com/shows/staying-powerYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNEmail: stayingpowershow@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheStayingPowerNetworkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561752300713Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayingpowershow/Words by JDK: https://www.wordsbyjdk.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 091: Values in Action: How to Align Our Lives with What Truly Matters | Staying PowerIn this week's episode, JD and Ashley dive into the importance of learning and knowing our values in building a better life. They introduce the VIA Strengths and Values Assessment, discussing their own results in depth. Join them as they reveal their top and bottom-ranked values, the introspection these rankings encourage, and how understanding these values can improve both personal growth and all sorts of relationships. Starting with values - rather than our shifting emotional states - is a key to creating viable life direction and purpose, so be sure to click the VIA link below to do your own Assessment!List of Resources:VIA: https://www.viacharacter.org/account/registerMore from Staying Power:On the Radio: https://1150kknw.com/shows/staying-powerYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNEmail: stayingpowershow@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheStayingPowerNetworkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561752300713Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayingpowershow/Words by JDK: https://www.wordsbyjdk.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 090: “The Courage to Act (When You’d Really Rather Not)”Big decisions aren’t just choices – they are also actions. This week, JDK and Ashley unpack why moving from intention to action with difficult decisions can feel so hard, biologically and socially, and how we can make courageous follow through more reliable. They explore the brain’s “freeze” response, why uncertainty always feels so uncomfortable, and various tools that anyone can apply at any time. You’ll leave with a decision-to- action “bridge” that you can use the next time a necessary change brings big feelings– plus get a frank look at the emotional and physical costs of not acting when you know you must.https://www.personality-quizzes.com/via-character-strengthsVIA Character Strengths Test Free (2025 Edition) - Personality QuizzesTake the Free VIA Character Strengths & Values Test and Unlock Your Top and Bottom Strengths. Discover How You Rank on 24 Strengths. VIA Assessment Backed By Science.www.personality-quizzes.comAlso, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 089: “Healing is Hard, Healing is Worth It”First responders see and experience trauma daily — and often carry those wounds long after the sirens fade. In this episode of Staying Power, JD Wyneken and Ashley Knebel talk with trauma psychologist Dr. Denise Haselwood about how trauma rewires the brain, why it changes thoughts and behavior, and most importantly, how it can be healed. Denise shares practical insights, science-based therapies, and real stories from her work with firefighters, police, EMTs, and more. If you’re a first responder — or someone who loves one — this episode offers knowledge, hope, and proof that healing is possible, even if it feels a little “weird” along the way.Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 088: “Learner-Driven Kids, Life-Ready Adults”Branching off of last week’s episode, JDK and Ashley are joined by Chris Wolf, co-founder of Pathfinders, a learner-driven school in Sammamish, WA that is part of the Acton Academy network. In a wide-ranging conversation, they explore why structured, Socratic-focused learning helps kids become resilient problem-solvers familiar with failures and successes, and how those same practices translate to healthier adult life. They also address the philosophical foundations of Acton, discuss how parents and home life are keys to success, and identify some important ways in which Pathfinders helps kids develop how to Do, how to Learn, and how to Be. Expect practical takeaways for families, educators, and any grown-up who’s wondering if there are better ways forward. Be sure to check out these links to items mentioned on today’s show: Pathfinders - Sammamish, WA:https://actonpathfinders.org/“Courage to Grow” by Laura Sandefer: https://a.co/d/cICSySs“The Hero With a Thousand Faces” by Joseph Campbell: https://a.co/d/iWE4eRwAlso, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 087 - Fail Better: The Case for Small StumblesFailure gets a bad rap. But what if failure — especially small, everyday stumbles — is one of the best tools we have for building strength and confidence? In this episode, JD Wyneken and Ashley Knebel explore why our brains are wired to avoid mistakes at all costs, why that avoidance often holds us back, and how embracing “micro-fails” can actually supercharge resilience. With stories, laughter, and science, they show how tripping up can be the best way to move forward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 086: “Holding the ‘Old Me’ Hostage”We’ve all done it — holding on to the old “version” of someone we know… or of ourselves. Maybe it’s your cousin who you still picture as the awkward teen, or the way you define yourself by that job you left 10 years ago. In this episode, JDK and Ashley explain why our brains are wired to cling to outdated stories about people (including ourselves), how this habit creates unnecessary emotional friction, and why learning to allow for change can transform relationships, boost self-esteem, and help us enjoy life more in the moment. With a mix of science, real-life examples, and a few laughs, you’ll learn how to hit “refresh” on your mental snapshots and embrace the ever-updating nature of being human.Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 085: "Reclaiming Real: How to Keep Tech from Replacing Human Connection"In a world that’s more connected than ever, why do so many of us feel… disconnected?This week on Staying Power, JDK and Ashley explore how the convenience of technology—while incredibly helpful—can quietly erode our most vital human connections. From texting instead of talking to letting screens fill the silence, they examine how our habits around tech may be rewiring how we relate to ourselves and others. How can we use tech but not have it use us up? Hear what your hosts - and the science! - says, and get some practical tips you can use right away! Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 084: “Hiring a Coach Isn’t Weak - It’s a Power Move”So… you’re thinking about hiring a coach—but a little voice in your head whispers, “Shouldn’t I already have this figured out?” This week on Staying Power, JDK and Ashley unpack the myth that coaching is for the broken. From business to life, leadership to health, they explore how modern coaching builds emotional intelligence, strengthens nervous system regulation, and helps people live more aligned, empowered lives. Get a breakdown of what different types of coaches actually do, what to look for in a good one, and why the best performers in the world all have coaches on their team. Bonus: practical steps to find the coach that’s right for you—without the overwhelm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 083: “The Power of Asking, ‘How Are You?’”Every day, we ask (or are asked) “How are you?” How often, though, are we willing or ready to hear or share the REAL answer in that moment? If you’re like most people, it’s not as often as we think or want to believe. This week, JDK and Ashley explore the potential power in asking and answering this key human question - and discuss how we can intentionally get and give so much more connection out of this question!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 082: “Holding Space For Growth”When our most important relationships hit instability or time periods of imbalance / inequality, we can often freeze or overreact with concern. Instead, how can we find and cultivate our ability to “hold space” for others to move towards growth and re-connection with us? And what is it about ourselves that might be in order for us to address, too? This week, Ashley and JD share their own experiences on both sides of such imbalances and times of difficulty. Both learned and applied important lessons in their lives. What might help you find those in your own? Settle in for a good listen and find out!Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 081: “More Life Lessons from Unrequited Love” After a great deal of positive responses to last week’s episode, JD and Ashley continue to discuss the challenges AND the profound gifts we can experience in an unrequited love situation. If we make it less about what we are not getting from someone else and more about what we can learn about our own need, desires, perceptions, and assumptions about love, life, and ourselves, the better we will grow in our capacity to TRULY give and experience love in our lives. A good starting point? The short book, “The Way to Love” by the late Anthony De Mello…https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/138878.The_Way_to_LoveAlso, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 080: “Loving At Arm’s Length”Loving people as best we can is a goal most humans shoot for, but in many cases this can be tougher than we want due to various circumstances. This week, Ashley and JD wade into the challenges involved in navigating love we have for others when it is not reciprocated as we’d prefer. While challenging, such situations actually offer a perhaps unparalleled opportunity to truly learn what love really is and is not.Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 079: “Reframing Beliefs That No Longer Serve Us” Often we hold on to old beliefs for so long that we don’t realize that we are suffering because of them. Why do we do that? And how can we make changes to those beliefs and get more ease and peace and purpose in our lives? That’s the subject of this week’s episode, and Ashley and JD have a lot to share, ponder, and advise about it. The good news? It doesn’t take a lot to start making those changes! Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 078: Rest Without Retreat: How to Recharge Without Sabotaging Your GoalsSummer’s here, the pace of life is shifting—and suddenly it feels easier to let our goals slide in the name of rest, fun, or “taking a break.” But what if those moments of rest could actually support your progress instead of derail it?In this episode of Staying Power, JDK Wyneken and Ashley Knebel unpack how to stay focused on your growth while also giving yourself permission to relax and recharge. Drawing from neuroscience, somatic practices, and psychological resilience theory, they explore how to balance intention and ease, structure and spontaneity.You’ll learn:• Why rest and fun are essential—not optional—for long-term success• How to avoid self-sabotaging beliefs that creep in when you “pause”• Simple tools like somatic breathing and body scanning to stay grounded• Stories from JDK & Ashley’s own struggles with summer (and holiday) backsliding• Actionable steps to help you enjoy the season and stay committed to your pathTune in and discover how rest can become a strategy—not a setback.Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 077: “Help Wanted: There’s Power in Reaching Out”We all feel anxiety, fear, and uncertainty when we need to ask for help, no matter the size of the request. Why do we have such a difficult time with such things? Well, it’s actually wired into us! This week, JD and Ashley talk about the ways we can work with our natural responses to develop pathways where we can more easily ask for help and reduce our stress and angst overall. Tune in for practical tips that you can try out right away!Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 076: Working Out Our Work EthicEver hear people say, “no one wants to work hard anymore!”? If so, then take a listen to this week’s episode, where Ashley and JDK explore this question and end up in a conversation focused on neuroplasticity and any of us can develop a deeper capacity and willingness to work more effectively and diligently. The keys? Curiosity, self-reflection, empathy, and learning how our brains and bodies work together. How might you bring these into your own workplace? Or into your relationships? Be sure to let Ashley and JDK know your thoughts!Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 075: Looking Back On A Year of AshleyA year ago this week, Ashley signed on as the new co-host of the show; to put it mildly, she's never looked back, and the show has gotten better every single week as a result. Today, to celebrate this anniversary, Ashley and JDK look back on the past year of the show - how it has grown and improved, what it has inspired - and similarly examine what they have learned from each other and about themselves. It is an episode all about connection, friendship, doing the work it takes to grow something special, and the importance of community for all of us. If you have any favorite memories or quotes from Ashley's past year, be sure to send those into stayingpowershow@gmail.com or DM them on Instagram (@stayingpowershow)! Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 074: Bettering the Lives of Billions, Part IIAshley and JD continue their wide-ranging conversation with Deena Mehta, this week focusing on how her experiences in helping modernize India's economy and politics has influenced (and was influenced by) her own personal beliefs, practice, and resilience in pursuing her goals and living by her values. Among the many pearls of wisdom provided are stories rich in heart, humor, and perspectives that can resonate with any of us, no matter who we are or where we come from. This might be an episode to listen to twice, just to take it all in! Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPNstayingpowershow@gmail.comThe Staying Power Network | For a Better Life | PatreonFacebookStaying Power on InstagramWords by JDKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.