PODCAST · business
Finding Your Inspiration
by Jill Van Balen
Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is a National CORE Production benefiting the Hope through Housing Foundation.Prepare to be moved, motivated, and transformed as we unearth the power of inspiration and the life-altering paths that led our guests to accomplish amazing feats. This is Finding Your Inspiration.
Episodes
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#127 | They Left 30-Year Careers to Open an Ice Cream Shop | Kelly & Daniel Decker
In this episode of Finding Your Invspiration, we sit down with Kelly and Daniel Decker, the husband-and-wife team behind Bruster's Real Ice Cream in Rancho Cucamonga, whose decision to leave more than 30 years of corporate careers began during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Kelly and Daniel…
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#126 | Why Art Is More Important Than Ever in 2026 | Gabriel Enamorado's Journey
In this episode of Finding Your Invspiration, we sit down with Gabriel Enamorado, a artist, designer, photographer, and executive director of Stay Arts whose lifelong relationship with creativity began during a difficult childhood. Gabriel shares how drawing Dragon Ball Z characters, discovering...
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3 Minutes of Inspiration That Will Change Your Perspective
Sometimes, all it takes is one message to shift your perspective. In this special compilation from Finding Your Inspiration, we look back at some of the most powerful words, lessons and moments shared by our guests. From perseverance and purpose to taking chances, overcoming adversity and…
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#125 | Andrew Grinsfelder's Incredible Story of Courage During the Palisades Fire
In this episode of Finding Your Invspiration, we sit down with Andrew Grinsfelder, a UCLA cognitive science student whose life changed overnight during the devastating Palisades Fire. When Andrew's family was forced to evacuate their home, they made the courageous decision to return and do...
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#124 | The Mindset That Took Joel Mejia to Ink Master
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Joel Mejia, tattoo artist, creative entrepreneur, and Ink Master competitor, to explore the mindset that helped him turn a lifelong passion into a career. Joel shares how believing in himself long before anyone else did opened doors he...
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#123 | From Local Dance Studio to the Super Bowl (Part 2)
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we continue our conversation with JP and Stephanie, founders of Salsa With Stephanie, as they share the next chapter of their incredible journey. In Part 2, they discuss the impact of building a community through dance, Stephanie's inspiring recovery...
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#123 | Everyone Said They Would Fail... They Built It Anyway (Part 1)
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with JP and Stephanie — entrepreneurs, dance instructors, and founders of Salsa With Stephanie, a thriving dance studio that has empowered thousands of people through movement, confidence, and community. But their journey to building a...
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#122 | From Sleeping in Her Car to Living Her Dream as a Glass Blower Artist: Carlyn Ray
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Carlyn Ray — glassblower, artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Carlyn Ray Designs, whose breathtaking glass sculptures and installations have transformed homes, businesses, and public spaces throughout Texas, California and beyond. But...
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#121 | The Man Who Put Art on the Moon: A Conversation with Pink Floyd Saxophonist Scott Page
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Scott Page — entrepreneur, innovator, and legendary saxophonist known for performing with Pink Floyd, Supertramp, and Toto. But Scott's story goes far beyond music. From touring the world with some of the most iconic bands in history…
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#120 | The Reality of Losing 100 Lbs. (And Keeping It Off)
In this special episode of Finding Your Inspiration, the tables are turned as FYI Podcast host Paul Tully becomes the guest. Interviewed by Executive Producer Jack Rothman, Paul shares the reality behind his ongoing 100-pound transformation. At the time of this conversation, he's 75 pounds down...
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#119 | Michael C. Martin's Journey from Real Life to Writing Brooklyn's Finest
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Michael C. Martin — screenwriter, storyteller, and the writer behind Brooklyn's Finest — to talk about the real-life journey that led him from East New York to Hollywood. Michael's path into screenwriting didn't begin with a perfect...
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#118 | Conversation with a Film Composer: Andrew Morris
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Andrew Morris — film composer, creative, and the technical studio engineer and lead editor behind the FYI Podcast at National CORE — to talk about following your instincts and how seemingly unrelated paths can ultimately lead you…
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#117 | Why You Can't Wait to Chase the Life you Want: Real Estate Advisor Mike Ramirez
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Mike — real estate advisor and entrepreneur — to talk about life, loss, and why you can't wait to chase the life you truly want. On paper, Mike's journey is one of success — building a career, creating opportunities, and helping others...
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#116 | More Than a Theme Park Streamer… This Means Everything to Him
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Danny — theme park streamer and content creator — to talk about community, connection, and how something as simple as going live can turn into something much bigger than he ever imagined. From the outside, Danny's content looks like…
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#115 | World Panna Champion Jack Downer's Daily Habit Changed Everything
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Jack Downer — World Panna Champion, professional footballer, and creator — to talk about resilience, recovery, and what it really takes to rebuild your life after everything changes. From the outside, Jack's journey looks like elite...
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#114 | Christian Filimon Walked Away From a "Perfect" Career… Why?
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Christian Filimon — broadcaster, podcaster, and front office executive — to talk about what it really means to bet on yourself. Raised in Queens by immigrant parents who worked tirelessly to build a better life, Christian grew up...
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#113 | Army Veteran, Operating Room Nurse, and Sports Reporter: Amanda's Journey
*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "9f3555b7-0336-419f-8298-2f8bc04c7348" data-testid= "conversation-turn-22" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of Finding Your…
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#112 | When Tragedy Sparks a Movement: Erin Runnion's Mission to Protect Children
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Erin Runnion — mother, advocate, and founder of The Joyful Child Foundation — to talk about loss, legacy, and how one life can spark a movement that protects millions. After her daughter Samanta was kidnapped and murdered, Erin faced a...
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#111 | Graffiti, Survival & Second Chances: How Efrain Turned It Around
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Efrain Aguiar — former graffiti tagger, street kid, and survivor — to talk about identity, survival mode, and the moment that forced him to choose a different path. Growing up, tagging wasn't just about spray paint and walls. It was...
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#110 | When Life Gets Heavy, You Keep Going: Ralph Bracco's Story
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, host Paul Tully sits down with longtime friend Ralph Bracco for a real, honest conversation about family, loss, and what it means to keep going when life gets heavy. As two old friends catching up, Ralph opens up about caring for his parents, losing...
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#109 | She Turned Life's Challenges into Strength: Theresa Farrell
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Theresa Farrell to talk about resilience, self-belief, and what it really means to keep going—especially when life doesn't unfold the way you expected. Theresa's story is one of growth shaped by challenge. From navigating difficult...
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#108 | NFL Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson: Legacy Beyond the Game
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Eric Dickerson — NFL Hall of Famer, Rams legend, philanthropist, and entrepreneur — to talk about legacy, purpose, and what it means to make an impact far beyond the game of football. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1983, Eric…
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#106 | Transformation Doesn't Happen Overnight: Aram Ramirez on Film Directing & Entrepreneurship
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Aram Ramirez to talk about navigating uncertainty, staying grounded when life feels heavy, and what it really takes to keep moving forward when the next step isn't clear. Aram shares how seasons of doubt, responsibility, and internal...
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#105 | What Happens When You Stop Playing It Safe W/ Kandice Gonzalez
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Kandice Gonzalez to talk about navigating uncertainty, trusting yourself when the path isn't clear, and what it really takes to keep going when things feel heavy. As an actor chasing her dreams while also caring for her brother who has...
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#103 | Portraying Lenny Bruce: The Play That Changed Ronnie Marmo's Life
In this episode of *Finding Your Inspiration*, Ronnie Marmo opens up about the realities behind the craft — the struggle, the discipline, the honesty, and the purpose that drives an artist forward. Ronnie, known for his powerful one-man show on Lenny Bruce, talks about: * What inspired him to…
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#102 | The Story Behind the D'Ellena Winery (In Memory of Claude Ellena)
This episode was filmed on September 29, 2025, just weeks before Claude's passing. We are deeply honored to share his story — his family's incredible journey, the history behind the D'Ellena winery, and the legacy that shaped generations. Claude welcomed us into a world built on grit,...
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#101 | Johnny Canizzaro on Pursuing His Acting Dream and Portraying Steven Van Zandt
Johnny Canizzaro shares how he pursued his acting dream, the defining moments that shaped his journey, and the incredible opportunity to portray Steven Van Zandt in the new Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere. Before stepping into an iconic role, Johnny had to understand who he was...
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#100 | How Sheila Conlin Built a Legacy That Shaped Modern Entertainment
Sheila Conlin is more than a casting director—she's a trailblazer who helped define an entire genre of television. Over a 15-year span, she evolved from talent agent to casting visionary to executive producer, leading the charge on some of primetime's most iconic unscripted series In this episode...
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#99 | Inside the Mind of a Psychic Medium (Laura Cifaldi Explains the Unseen)
What do people really come to mediums for? In this episode, we explore grief, closure, "signs" from loved ones, and how readings can bring clarity when you need it most. We also dig into ethics, evidence, and what the afterlife might be like — including pets crossing over and the power of…
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#98 | The Power of Hope: Finding Your Inspiration Season 2 Highlights
From heartbreak to healing, struggle to strength — every guest this season had one thing in common: hope. This compilation celebrates the moments that reminded us why we do what we do — to share stories that inspire transformation and remind us that no matter where you are, hope is always the…
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#97 | How We Said Yes to a Half Ironman with Only 6 Months to Train
What started as a simple chat with past guest and para-athlete David Whelan became a life-changing decision: the Finding Your Inspiration team would run a Half Ironman in Muncie, Indiana — with only six months to train. In this special segment, host Jack Rothman sits down with Paulie, Norma, and...
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#96 | How One Man is Making Sure Thousands of Kids Are Getting Fed
What does it take to change a community? For Greg Quezada, it starts with a single meal. Through Allison's Project, Greg provides hot meals to kids in after-school programs—giving hope, consistency, and connection to families who need it most. In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Greg...
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#95 | How a Young Country Artist is Marketing Her Music in 2025: Macie Rae
At just 14 years old, singer-songwriter Macie Rae Lewis is already learning what it takes to chase a dream. From her first garage band to performing at the O.C. Fair, auditioning for America's Got Talent and The Voice, and preparing for American Idol, Macie is building her career one step at a...
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#94 | The Power of Saying Yes: Bella Balsamo's Life-Changing Story
On this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Bella Balsoma shares her powerful story of survival. After a near-death experience, Bella was forced to reimagine what life truly means — and she chose to embrace every moment with her mantra: say yes to life. Her journey is a reminder that we don't…
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#93 | Stop Waiting. Start Trying: Liam Fountain
What if the only thing between you and your next chapter is… trying? Liam Fountain wears many hats—actor, USA Masters amateur boxing champ, stunt/fight performer, and president of an Irish Catholic fraternity. His story proves a simple rule: if you don't try, nothing happens. From hotel...
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#92 | Breaking Barriers in Politics: Fiona Ma's Inspiring Story
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Fiona Ma, the California State Treasurer. From growing up as the oldest child of immigrant parents in New York, to becoming one of the most influential women in California politics, Fiona's journey is rooted in perseverance, public...
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#91 | 34 Years, One Mission: Shannon D. Dicus Serving the People of San Bernadino County
In this episode, we sit down with Shannon D. Dicus, the 36th Sheriff of San Bernardino County, to explore his powerful journey from a small desert town to leading one of the largest sheriff's departments in the U.S. From his military roots to working the jail system, from VA policing to turning...
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#90 | Building Wealth Isn't Magic—It's a Plan: Malik Mallory's Financial Journey
Malik Mallory isn't just a financial advisor—he's a self-made entrepreneur who built his own wealth management firm from the ground up. In this episode, he shares how growing up around crime, hardship, and systemic disadvantage fueled his desire to do better—for himself, his family, and his...
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#89 | The Day I Had to Save My Father in Jail: D'Andre Lampkin's Power of Perspective
In Part 2 of D'Andre Lampkin's journey, we dive even deeper into family, faith, and what it means to break generational cycles. From discovering hidden ties between both sides of his family, to caring for the father who never raised him — D'Andre shares how his moments of changing perspective...
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#88 | Public Servant D'Andre Lampkin | Why Growing Up in South Central Pushed Me to Serve Others
In Part 1 of this powerful two-part episode, we dive deep into the early life of D'Andre Lampkin—community leader, nonprofit founder, and public servant. Raised by a single mother in South Central L.A., D'Andre faced constant exposure to gang violence, police neglect, and poverty. But instead of...
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#87 | Reed Fox: Fighting Poverty and Strengthening Communities Through Soccer
In this episode, we sit down with Reed Fox—a social impact leader using the power of soccer to help people rebuild their lives. From building street soccer parks to launching programs in prisons, domestic abuse shelters, refugee camps, and with military veterans, Reed's mission is simple: help...
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#86 | Reviving America's First Black-Owned Opera House: Jonnet Solomon
In this episode, we sit down with Jonnet Solomon, a cultural visionary who is leading the charge to restore America's first Black-owned opera house, located in the heart of Pittsburgh. Originally from Georgetown, Guyana, Joni came to the U.S. and eventually found herself drawn to a historic but...
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#85 | Paralyzed at 15: Zack Collie's Inspiring Comeback Story
In this episode, we sit down with Zack Collie, a motivational speaker and disability advocate who became a quadriplegic at age 15 after a diving accident. But what could have ended his dreams instead became the start of a powerful transformation. Zack shares his story of adjusting to life in a...
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#84 | Trauma Didn't Win: Actress Sierra Nowak's Breakthrough Journey
In this episode, we sit down with Sierra Nowak—a rising actress, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Raised in Akron, Ohio, Sierra's early life was marked by instability: a mother battling with mental health issues, a father who was a disabled veteran coping with PTSD, and a home filled…
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#83 | Helping People Heal: Life Lessons from Inside a Rehab Center
In this episode, we sit down with Mark, an inspiring actor and addiction recovery advocate who works at a private rehabilitation center. Mark shares his journey from growing up in Staten Island as the son of Filipino immigrants, to discovering his purpose through service and storytelling. He…
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#82 | Entrepreneurship Done Right | A Health & Wellness Business Success Story
In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Wine, an inspiring entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry. Maddie shares her journey from growing up as the oldest of eight children in a chaotic yet loving family, to carving out her path as a business leader in the multicultural space. She…
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#81 | Super Bowl Champion Ira Matthews: From NFL Stardom to Inspiring the Next Generation
In this episode, we sit down with Ira Matthews, a Super Bowl 15 champion with the Oakland Raiders. Ira shares his incredible journey from growing up in Rockford, Illinois, to becoming part of NFL history with the Raiders. His story is one of perseverance, leadership, and the importance of…
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#80 | The NFL Fan Experience You've Never Seen: Ross Rick and the Raider Nation Golf Club
In this episode, we sit down with Ross Ricks, founder of Raider Nation Golf Club and Alpha Team Golf—two movements turning die-hard football fans into weekend warriors on the course. What started as a simple idea to blend Raider fandom and charity has exploded into a full-scale initiative to…
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#79 | Enduring the World's Hardest Triathlon | Amputee Athlete Survives the Norseman
In this episode, Paul Tully catches up with athlete David Whelan, diving into his incredible experience at the notorious Norsman triathlon, known as the toughest in the world. David recalls the grueling hills and relentless conditions he faced during the race, driven by his mantra, "Take the…
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#78 | Entrepreneurship with a Purpose: How Jeff Burm is redefining Community Impact Through National Core
In this epic episode, Paul Tully has an engaging conversation with Jeff Burum, a dedicated entrepreneur and founder and chairman of National Core, who is passionate about making a difference in the community through affordable housing. Jeff shares the inspiring story of his upbringing and how his...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is a National CORE Production benefiting the Hope through Housing Foundation.Prepare to be moved, motivated, and transformed as we unearth the power of inspiration and the life-altering paths that led our guests to accomplish amazing feats. This is Finding Your Inspiration.
HOSTED BY
Jill Van Balen
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Finding Your Inspiration have?
Finding Your Inspiration currently has 127 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Finding Your Inspiration about?
Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage....
How often does Finding Your Inspiration release new episodes?
Finding Your Inspiration publishes regularly with 127 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Finding Your Inspiration?
You can listen to Finding Your Inspiration on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Finding Your Inspiration?
Finding Your Inspiration is created and hosted by Jill Van Balen.
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