Flex With Purpose

What happens when the life you carefully built falls apart?In this deeply honest episode of Flex with Purpose, Schalee Sánchez sits down with Ally Barrett to unpack a journey from chasing titles, money, and the “corporate success” script… to losing it all, surrendering control, and discovering what true fulfillment actually looks like. From childhood wounds and depression, to therapy, and the painful process of grieving an old identity, Ally shares how rock bottom became the turning point that led her to authenticity, meaningful connection, and a purpose-driven life.This conversation is for anyone who has ever:• Felt trapped living someone else’s definition of success• Struggled with loneliness, anxiety, or feeling disconnected from themselves• Faced failure, shame, or an unexpected detour• Wondered if surrender could actually lead to something betterAlly’s story is a reminder that your worst moment does not define you — and sometimes losing what you thought you wanted is exactly how you find what you truly need.This episode will challenge you to trust the process, embrace authenticity, and rethink what it really means to live with purpose.

This episode of Flex with Purpose features a powerful conversation between host Schalee Sanchez and guest Aaron Steensma, a former detective who transitioned from law enforcement to entrepreneurship and non-profit leadership. Aaron shares his personal journey of moving from New York to Texas with nothing but a dream, a prayer, and a red Honda Accord, eventually finding his calling in serving the first responder community. He opens up about his struggles with mental, physical, and spiritual wellness during his time in law enforcement and how hitting a breaking point led him to seek help and ultimately found "First Responder Wellness". The discussion explores themes of building in silence, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of legacy, drawing inspiration from Aaron’s father and grandfather. Join us to discover why a satisfying life isn't always an easy one, but one rooted in obedience and serving others.

What does it really mean to live with humility? In this episode of Flex with Purpose, host Schalee Sánchez sits down with James Ingrahm to explore a powerful journey of identity, adversity, and transformation.From growing up in Barbados to pursuing a professional tennis career across Europe and South America, James shares how an unexpected injury changed the course of his life—and how what once felt like loss became the path to something greater.James opens up about the struggles of comparison, the tension between confidence and insecurity, and the deeper truth behind humility. Through personal stories, including a life-threatening cancer diagnosis, he reveals how true strength is not found in self-promotion, but in surrender, perspective, and gratitude.This conversation will challenge the way you think about success, identity, and what it means to truly “flex with purpose.”

In this episode of Flex With Purpose, host Schalee Sanchez sits down with Bruce Arfsten for a powerful conversation about leadership, humility, and living a life of service. Bruce shares insights from his experience as Mayor of Addison, Texas, a real estate broker, and a leadership development trainer. Together they explore servant leadership, the importance of empathy, learning from others, and how small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect in the lives of those around us.This conversation also highlights the power of mindset, gratitude, vulnerability, and the importance of pausing between stimulus and response so we can lead and live with greater wisdom and intentionality. If you're looking to grow personally, strengthen your relationships, and make a positive impact in your community, this episode will encourage and challenge you to live with purpose.

Schalee Sanchez sits down with Braden Sloan, a 20-year-old college student and fifth-generation farm kid from rural Missouri, for a thoughtful conversation on humility as a stabilizing force through both victories and heartbreak. What began as a chance meeting at Stonebriar Mall turns into an honest look at identity, resilience, and the kind of inner steadiness that keeps you grounded when life shifts fast.Braden shares how humility showed up on the baseball field during one of his biggest moments—helping him stay focused under pressure, free from shame, and present in the game even when the outcome didn’t go as hoped. But the conversation goes deeper as he opens up about losing his father to stage-four lung cancer, and later facing the painful decision to sell their family cattle herd during a record-setting drought. Through grief, responsibility, and regret, Braden explains what it means to do your best with the resources you have—and how humility helps you release self-blame, learn from the valley, and keep moving forward.The episode also highlights Braden’s commitment to growth through relationships and self-awareness. From intentionally listening to his grandmother’s wisdom to building the habit of journaling as a way to process emotions, recognize patterns, and make practical changes, Braden paints a picture of humility that’s not passive—it’s disciplined, reflective, and deeply human.This is an episode about seeing other people clearly, redefining strength, and remembering the world doesn’t revolve around us—so we can live with more empathy, more peace, and more purpose.If you’re navigating transition, loss, or growth, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

Schalee Sanchez welcomes Dr. Patrick Ryan, an award-winning pediatric dentist with nearly three decades of experience, for a warm and insightful conversation about humility, excellence, and the kind of leadership that earns trust over time. Known for the way he serves families with both skill and integrity, Dr. Ryan shares how his greatest accomplishments aren’t measured by recognition alone—but by the relationships he’s built, the peace he carries, and the commitment to always do the right thing.Dr. Ryan reflects on the formative influence of his parents, what it taught him to work hard without chasing perfection, and why humility means staying honest—even when it requires admitting mistakes and learning in real time. He explains how an unexpected aptitude test helped set him on the path to dentistry, and how a year working as a dental assistant shaped his heart for pediatric care—teaching him that listening well is one of the most powerful tools in any profession.The conversation also explores the pressure professionals face when money, image, or performance become the driving force. Dr. Ryan offers a compelling alternative: lead with integrity, treat people like you would treat your own family, and never misuse the trust others place in you. As a husband and father of four, he shares how family has helped him keep a healthy perspective—pursuing excellence without letting work consume what matters most.This episode is an encouragement to be authentic, stay teachable, and keep reaching for meaningful goals—even when the first attempt comes up short. It’s a reminder that the best version of you isn’t built through applause, but through character, consistency, and compassion.

Schalee Sanchez sits down with entrepreneur, real estate broker, and father of four Chris Clary for a grounded, practical conversation about humility, leadership, and what real success actually looks like. Chris shares how some of his greatest wins didn’t come from business growth alone, but from intentional decisions to prioritize his marriage, his children, and the people entrusted to his leadership.Chris reflects on pivotal mentors who shaped his approach to life and work, teaching him the power of staying teachable, listening well, and resisting the pressure to have all the answers. From navigating real estate transactions to leading teams and raising kids, he explains why humility builds trust, why honesty creates stronger relationships, and why collaboration consistently outperforms ego.The conversation also explores how success becomes more meaningful when it’s leveraged for others—through mentoring, generosity, and investing in causes beyond yourself. Chris offers a compelling picture of leadership that puts people at the center, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice family or character to build something impactful. This episode is an invitation to redefine success, lead with humility, and build a life that lasts beyond personal gain.

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee sits down with Dr. Kyle Thompson, a rehab specialist and chiropractor whose blend of humility, discipline, mentorship, and relentless learning shapes every life he touches. Kyle shares some of his most meaningful wins—not the kind measured in accolades, but in human transformation: patients walking again, hiking mountains, playing with their children without pain, and reclaiming the ability to live fully. His stories reveal a man who sees healing as a partnership, not a performance, and who believes humility is the only pathway to real expertise.Through their conversation, Kyle opens up about his daily rhythms of practice, entrepreneurship, continuing education, and community involvement. He describes the “dance” of his life—balancing business demands with clinical mastery, investing deeply in his patients while also mentoring students at Parker University, and constantly seeking wisdom from those ahead of him. His approach is simple but profound: confidence isn’t pretending you know everything; it’s being willing to learn, adapt, and change when new information comes.Kyle also shares how mentorship, grief, failure, and real human stories shaped his understanding of humility. From walking alongside a terminally ill patient whose final lesson changed the trajectory of his life, to navigating the early years of private practice, to resisting the ego trap that comes with five degrees at age 32—Kyle demonstrates how honesty, self-awareness, and action create impact far greater than knowledge alone.This episode is a powerful invitation to anyone feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed by growth: take the next step. As Kyle reminds us, action is the antidote to anxiety. Whether you're leading, healing, learning, or starting something new, this conversation will challenge you to show up with courage, humility, teachability, and purpose.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose01:31 The Role of Humility in Accomplishments04:48 Personal Success Stories and Impact06:24 A Day in the Life of Dr. Kyle Thompson12:15 The Importance of Humility in Practice14:18 Confidence and Humility: A Balancing Act16:53 Mentoring the Next Generation23:35 The Ripple Effect of Teaching

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee sits down with dog-trainer-turned-community-builder Art Ortiz, whose life story is a raw and profound picture of resilience, humility, and purpose. Art opens up about the long recovery from a torn tendon in his pinky—a small injury with a massive impact on both his jiu-jitsu practice and his work with dogs. He shares how adapting to train with “three limbs instead of four” made him more resourceful, more patient, and surprisingly, even better than before. His story reframes injury not as an ending, but as an unexpected teacher.As the conversation unfolds, Art reveals the deeper journey behind the man—navigating career loss, divorce, loneliness, and financial uncertainty. He shares the unlikely beginnings of DogFit Dallas, born from rock-bottom moments, chance encounters, and ultimately God’s providence. From walking ten dogs through downtown elevators to becoming a trusted relationship-builder between families and their pets, Art’s story shows how struggle can become a calling, and how a single decision can change the entire arc of a life.Art also talks about his renewed faith journey—how God pursued him through unexpected people, chance conversations, worship music, and a season of personal crisis. He describes learning to slow down, to connect deeply with others, and to anchor his days in early-morning prayer and Scripture. Whether wrestling on a jiu-jitsu mat, supporting families impacted by tragedy, or helping clients rebuild trust with their dogs, Art shows how humility, service, and spiritual grounding can transform both a business and a life.This episode is for anyone in a season of struggle, transition, or uncertainty. Art reminds us that nothing—neither the highs nor the valleys—lasts forever, and that even in our hardest moments, God is at work laying the stepping stones ahead of us. His story is an encouragement to stay the course, ask for help, keep growing, and trust that better days are coming.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose02:18 Overcoming Personal Challenges07:02 Navigating Life Changes10:32 The Importance of Connection14:27 Daily Routines and Priorities19:11 The Journey to Becoming a Dog Trainer23:18 From Dog Walking to Recognition25:28 Life Changes and Personal Growth26:43 Overcoming Difficult Moments28:23 Seeking Help and Finding Community35:03 Faith and Personal Transformation38:02 Encouragement for Struggling Listeners

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee reconnects with elite OCR athlete and former CG competitor Vivien Tran, whose story is a masterclass in discipline, resilience, grounded ambition, and authentic humility. Vivien traces her journey from a childhood rooted in music and discipline, to stepping into fitness through Camp Gladiator, to discovering the world of Obstacle Course Racing—where failure, frustration, and fierce determination became the building blocks of her success. She speaks candidly about early setbacks: not cracking the top 100 at CG Games, DNF’ing races, and clinging to obstacles until her hands bled—all moments that ultimately fueled her rise to international competition and 21 elite podium finishes.Vivien also shares how community shaped her—from trainers and teammates who believed in her when she didn’t yet believe in herself, to her own evolution into a leader who coaches, encourages, and even “team moms” the USA OCR national team. She and Schalee explore why celebrating others’ wins keeps you grounded, why ego distorts growth, and why humility lets you stay teachable, coachable, and connected—all essential traits for both elite athletes and everyday life.Beyond racing, Vivien opens a window into her life as a corporate environmental scientist balancing high-intensity training with a demanding career. Her daily routines, sacrifices, and priorities reveal a woman who has learned not only to push her limits, but to stay rooted in perspective, gratitude, and service. She reminds us that failure doesn’t get easier—but discipline does. And the more you lean into discipline, the more your confidence, resilience, and character grow.Vivien’s story is for anyone who wonders if they have what it takes to pursue something difficult. It’s a call to embrace imperfection, surround yourself with encouragers, be teachable, and give yourself grace as you grow. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, a leader, or someone stepping into a new challenge, this conversation will inspire you to chase your potential with courage and consistency.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose01:54 The Journey of Accomplishments05:41 Embracing Failure as a Teacher08:17 The Role of Community in Growth11:14 Transitioning to OCR and Overcoming Challenges15:10 The Impact of Encouragement and Support20:44 Balancing Career and Passion24:37 The Ripple Effect of Passion26:33 Navigating Ego and Arrogance31:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee welcomes Cheryl Carrell, whose story weaves together motherhood, fitness, faith, community, and deep humility. Cheryl shares how years of disciplined training became more than physical strength—they became the rhythms that shaped her sanity, her organization, and her ability to pour into her family. From early mornings at the gym to spending her quiet drive listening to Scripture and prayer, she explains how moving her body helped her show up for her children with a full cup rather than an empty one.Cheryl opens up about the power of positive cycles, how tiny habits like laying out clothes the night before create momentum, and how community becomes an irreplaceable force in sustaining both fitness and emotional vitality. She and Schalee explore why shared experiences—whether in workouts or life’s toughest seasons—bind people together and create the support we desperately need.The conversation deepens as Cheryl reflects on humility: choosing to face outward instead of inward, learning to die to selfish desires, and trusting God through the ever-changing seasons of marriage, raising children, launching young adults, caring for aging parents, and navigating personal transitions. She shares how God redeemed deep pain—like losing her father—by using it to lead her into new purpose, new community, and even a life-changing mission trip to Nepal she never expected.Through it all, Cheryl reminds us that God uses every season—even the ones that feel overwhelming—and invites us to stay flexible, open-handed, and willing to see what He’s doing right where we are. Her story is a grounded, hopeful picture of what it looks like to live with humility, purpose, and trust.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose01:01 Celebrating Achievements and Humility03:44 The Influence of Fitness on Motherhood19:36 Shared Experiences with Children22:24 Overcoming Challenges and Perseverance25:55 Fitness and Motherhood: A Personal Journey28:24 The Importance of Community and Accountability31:17 Humility and Selflessness in Relationships34:18 Finding Purpose in Life's Seasons36:40 Embracing Change and Flexibility

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee sits down with Ashley Maroney, whose story of faith, identity, strength, and calling has unfolded dramatically over the past two years. Ashley shares how her life shifted when she gave her life to Christ—reshaping her relationships, grounding her identity, and helping her break free from chasing external approval. She opens up about the messy, uncomfortable parts of change and how God’s steady presence has carried her through seasons of transition and growth.Ashley also discusses her transformation as an athlete. Once driven by a competitive edge rooted in self-focus, she now channels that same grit into honoring her body, strengthening her faith, and preparing for her future roles as a wife and mom. She shares insights from her research on female athletes, bone density, energy availability, and the dangers of under-fueling—revealing why “common” isn’t the same as “normal.” Her work is not just academic; it’s personal, especially as she guides and encourages her younger sister.The conversation deepens as Ashley describes learning to integrate her fitness life with her spiritual life—quiet workouts without music, prayer woven into movement, and the discipline that ripples into every part of her day. She talks candidly about burnout, identity, and how God has been calling her into a new career path that requires real trust, real surrender, and what she calls “10 seconds of insane courage.”Together, Schalee and Ashley explore humility, spiritual grounding, and the freedom that comes from taking the next step even when you can’t see the whole path. Ashley’s story is a reminder that when God lays the stone in front of you, all you have to do is step on it—and He’ll place the next one in His time.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose01:01 Ashley Maroney's Journey of Faith02:38 The Impact of Change and Growth04:25 Athletic Background and Its Influence06:10 Competitiveness: From Selfishness to Purpose07:10 Research on Female Athletes and Bone Health11:11 Sharing Knowledge and Future Research13:48 Navigating Trustworthy Information16:16 Making Healthy Changes as an Athlete17:56 Embracing Strength Over Appearance19:33 The Connection Between Body, Mind, and Spirit21:18 Quiet Time and Spiritual Connection22:23 Finding Joy in Workouts23:27 Listening to God's Call25:27 Stepping into New Adventures27:16 Confirmation and Encouragement28:38 The Role of Humility in New Beginnings30:26 Preparing for Marriage and Family Life30:55 The Lifelong Journey of Humility32:05 Final Encouragement: Courage to Act

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee sits down with personal trainer Patrick Sagui—a man whose strength runs far deeper than muscle. With honesty and humility, Patrick traces his journey from a 21-year-old who didn’t believe in himself to a trainer who built an 18-year career serving clients with integrity, compassion, and relentless dedication. He shares the mentors who shaped him, the setbacks that refined him, and the personal battles—especially with addiction and mental health—that pushed him to become a better husband, father, and friend.Patrick also opens up about the day he encountered two brothers at the rec center—one able-bodied, one disabled—whose grit, loyalty, and quiet courage humbled him and changed the entire trajectory of his workout. Their bond becomes a picture of what real strength looks like: not ego, not applause, but love expressed through sacrifice.Together, Schalee and Patrick explore how humility keeps us grounded, how authenticity builds trust, and why the strongest leaders are often the most willing to stop what they’re doing and give someone a few minutes of attention—even if it costs them their workout. This conversation is an invitation to use your strength on purpose and to see the extraordinary in ordinary moments.00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose01:36 Celebrating Personal Wins06:01 The Importance of Mentorship07:57 Overcoming Personal Challenges10:29 A Day in the Life of a Trainer13:30 Working with Diverse Clients16:17 Inspiring Encounters at the Gym23:57 Lessons in Humility and Authenticity