From the Ashes

About This Episode I sit down with Nina Pullella, my former Ayurveda school classmate and founder of Living Ayurveda Hawaii, to explore her radical life transformation from free-spirited bartender to devoted healer. I get real with Nina about how watching her best friend Christa fight stage 4 breast cancer at 38 became the catalyst for everything — from starting her meal delivery business to discovering Ayurveda to creating the Wild Woman Collective. I reflect on the deeper patterns we see in chronic illness, including the mental health crises that often precede physical disease, and why giving ourselves permission to prioritize our wellbeing can't wait for a wake-up call. This conversation is for anyone who senses they're abandoning themselves in small ways and wants to understand what it really takes to choose yourself before life forces the choice. Key Moments [02:13] — I share how Nina's upbringing in a Jersey Italian immigrant family restaurant created an innate foundation for understanding food as medicine [04:57] — Nina opens up about dropping everything when her best friend Christa was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and how it felt like her dharmic path opening [07:31] — I explore with Nina what it meant to shed the skin of her "maiden wild woman" identity and transition into devotion, discipline, and sacrifice [14:24] — Nina reflects on starting Nina Cucina after witnessing how difficult it was for Christa to find truly clean, healing food during treatment [23:53] — I get real about my belief that mental health is often the "health crisis before the health crisis" and how self-abandonment patterns manifest physically [40:07] — Nina shares her observations about how women lack permission to prioritize themselves and why we need communities that celebrate rather than compete in suffering [46:34] — I reflect on the elusive nature of self-love and how sometimes it takes significant suffering before we're willing to truly choose ourselves About the Guest Nina Pullella is a Board-Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, herbalist, and chef based on O'ahu, Hawai'i. She is the founder of two businesses: Nina Cucina, a seasonal meal delivery service, and Living Ayurveda Hawaii, her holistic health practice and home of the Wild Woman Collective, a year-long immersive container for women ready to return to rhythm, reclaim their health, and reconnect with ancestral wisdom. She also studies and practices la'au lapa'au, traditional Hawaiian plant medicine. Nina's work bridges ancient healing traditions with modern life, helping women stop piecing their wellness together and start living it. Guest Links The Wild Woman Collective: https://www.living-ayurveda-hawaii.com/wild-woman-collective Living Ayurveda Hawaii: https://www.living-ayurveda-hawaii.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/living.ayurveda.hawaii Nina's best friend Christa Wittmier — known to many as Super CW — is the subject of the PBS Hawai'i documentary "The Adventures of SUPER CW": https://www.pbshawaii.org/the-adventures-of-super-cw/ About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About Valerie Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Download the Free Blueprint Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint — a practical guide to reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. thevibrantvisionary.com Stay in the Loop Join the mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected]📱 @vibrantvisionary.val📺 YouTube

How One Artist Ditched the Popularity Contest and Start Creating for Himself... I sat down with Vibrant Visionary member Alvyn Villanueva, artist and founder of Really Hueman, to explore his path from chasing validation in Hollywood's animation industry to finding authentic creative expression. We get real about the paradox so many artists face — understanding intellectually what needs to change but struggling to embody it in a world that constantly measures worth through follower counts, industry recognition, and getting hired. This conversation unpacks the slow work of separating survival from art, the importance of foundational stability before creative risk-taking, and what it actually takes to build a life that doesn't depend on external approval.  This conversation is for creative professionals who understand intellectually that their value isn't determined by likes or paychecks, but are still working out how to embody that truth in a world that constantly tells them otherwise. Key Moments [01:40] I ask Alvyn about his motivation to help entrepreneurs, and he shares his respect for people who buck societal expectations of safety to pursue their own path. [04:24] Alvyn opens up about his work-related struggles in Hollywood animation, describing the constant chase for validation and the uphill battle of trying to fit in. [05:40] He reflects on the tipping point during lockdowns when choosing not to get vaccinated blacklisted him from Hollywood jobs and peer acceptance. [08:03] Alvyn gets honest about the frustrating paradox of understanding dance mechanics intellectually but feeling his body couldn't reproduce what his mind had figured out. [15:08] I explore how the lessons from dance community dynamics crossed over into his animation career, particularly around authenticity versus performing for acceptance. [24:36] He shares his realization that art school might have actually boxed him in stylistically, and how he now purposely experiments without needing polish. [31:50] Alvyn explains his focus on body and health as foundation, saying "when your body is functioning properly, you have energy and clarity" to see what you really want. [35:25] He offers his biggest lesson from two years in the collective: "Give it an honest try, listen to silence as much as you listen to other people, trust in the universe." About Our Guest Alvyn Villanueva is the founder of Really Hueman, an artist, dancer, and full spectrum hue-man based in the SF Bay Area. After two years of intensive work in my Vibrant Visionary Collective, he's transitioned from stuck in Hollywood animation burnout to building an independent creative practice rooted in authentic expression rather than external validation. Guest Links Instagram: https://instagram.com/really_hue.man, https://instagram.com/alvynart YouTube: https://youtube.com/@really_hue_man Website: https://www.reallyhueman.com About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About Valerie Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Join the Vibrant Visionary Collective The Collective is where this work gets implemented — with correct sequencing, direct support, and a community of people doing the same courageous work together. Learn more at thevibrantvisionary.com. thevibrantvisionary.com Stay in the Loop Join the mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected]📱 @vibrantvisionary.val📺 YouTube

About This Episode I'm back in solo format for a mini episode, and today I'm sharing something I didn't see coming when I took a part-time job at a café in Tokyo. What started as a challenge to get fluent in Japanese has turned into one of the most unexpectedly rich experiences of my life. My coworkers, ranging from 20-somethings to people in their 50s, are showing me what it actually looks like to live with curiosity, pursue what genuinely interests you, and find joy in the every day. This one is for anyone who's ever felt pressure to have a polished, linear career — and wondered if there might be another way. Key Moments [00:49] — I share the theme for today: lessons learned from working at a café in Tokyo, and why I decided to take a part-time job in a foreign language in the first place. [01:54] — I open up about how these coworker relationships have radically shifted my perspective on what it means to be a Vibrant Visionary. [02:04] — I get honest about a goal I held last year — global coaching career, stages, big money — and how I've come to recognize it as a culturally implanted desire that doesn't actually resonate with me. [04:09] — I share what I find fascinating about Japanese part-time culture: people who move fluidly between industries, not out of failure, but out of genuine curiosity — and how that's not just accepted here, it's normal. [05:24] — I tell the story of my new work bestie from Osaka, who moved herself and her husband to Tokyo to pursue her interest in coffee — and what her courage quietly gave me permission to do. [07:09] — I reflect on how in the States, changing careers feels like abandonment — like something that will be held against you — and why I think that's a travesty. [10:00] — I land on what a life well lived actually means to me: the freedom to pursue your curiosity, develop your gifts, and give back from a full cup rather than one that's constantly emptying out. [13:07] — I share the story of a coworker who goes on monologues about coffee experimentation — orange blossom syrups and all — and why his spark of curiosity is the most vibrant thing I've witnessed all week. About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About Valerie Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Join the Vibrant Visionary Collective The Collective is where this work gets implemented — with correct sequencing, direct support, and a community doing the same courageous work together. thevibrantvisionary.com Stay in the Loop Join the mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected] 📱 @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube  

This episode is a role reversal — I hand the mic to Tarna Fuller, Ayurvedic practitioner and founder of Lotus Honey Integrative Health, and let her interview me about one of the most overused and under-examined words in the wellness world: authenticity. I get real about what authenticity actually requires — why it isn't available to someone in survival mode, how our earliest coping strategies become the very patterns that sabotage our growth, and what I call the "not-self" and why facing it is non-negotiable. We also move into territory that doesn't get discussed enough: the Vedic concept of the observer self, what enlightenment actually looks like in practice, and why wanting to skip straight to liberation is itself a sign that healing still needs to happen. This one is for you if you've ever followed all the right steps and still felt like something was off — or if you've started to wonder whose life you're actually living. Key Moments [01:16] — I open up about flipping the format entirely: Tarna takes the host seat and interviews me, and I explain why authenticity is the theme we're unpacking together today. [03:14] — I share my core belief that authenticity is the key to a fulfilled life, and that when people truly embrace what's unique to them — their body, ancestry, history — it doesn't just benefit them, it creates the conditions for more compassion and harmony in the world. [07:00] — I get specific about grad school as a concrete example of a choice made with almost no real desire behind it, and how that misalignment led to years of depression — and why that little doubt in the back of your mind is usually right. [12:36] — I lay out what I mean by "not-self": it's not your true nature, it's your conditioning — the coping strategy you built in childhood to get your needs met, and why people-pleasing is a textbook example of a shadow strength that comes with a heavy cost. [29:10] — I explain why authenticity has prerequisites, grounding this in Ayurveda: the concept of svastha — being settled in the self — is what makes it possible to choose your direction, and without that foundation, you're just paddling to not drown. [40:30] — I reflect on a wound I've carried since first grade — being pulled out of class and missing playtime — and trace how that early experience of exclusion has followed me all the way to Japan, where I still find myself triggered by being left out, even when the reality is completely different. [53:28] — I push back on the idea that the child had no choice: the not-self was itself a survival choice, and recognizing that reframes shame into something more workable — we defaulted on that choice instead of refreshing our operating system for new situations. [01:05:27] — I share what guides my work as a mentor: I'm not here to declare who Valerie is, I'm here to discover who Valerie is — and that orientation toward curiosity over certainty is what makes it possible to help others do the same. About Tarna Fuller Tarna Fuller is an Ayurvedic practitioner, respiratory therapist, yoga teacher, and founder of Lotus Honey Integrative Health. She works with high-achieving women who are over-giving, over-functioning, and running on patterns that once helped them survive — but are now quietly costing them their health and vitality. Blending Ayurvedic wisdom with nervous-system awareness and the practical reality of modern life, Tarna helps women rebuild their energy and reclaim their sense of self without dismantling the life they've already built — and she lives this work in real time as a mom of five. Guest Links Website: lotushoneyhealth.com Facebook: Lotus Honey Integrative Health YouTube: Tarna Fuller Skool Community: Join here Glossary of Terms Not-Self — The patterns of behavior that feel like "you" but are actually conditioning — ways of navigating the world you developed early in life to get your needs met. The not-self often shows up as a shadow strength: something that looks functional on the surface (like being very helpful or highly available) but carries a hidden cost in the form of resentment, depletion, or disconnection from what you actually want. Svastha — A Sanskrit term from Ayurveda that translates literally to "being settled in the self." It is the Ayurvedic definition of health — not the absence of symptoms, but a stable foundation of self-knowledge and self-regulation from which you can make real choices about your life. Dharma — A Sanskrit concept meaning your duty, role, or purpose — the particular way your life is meant to be lived given who you are, where you came from, and what you're here to contribute. Dharma is not a fixed identity; it can be expressed in countless ways, and you have far more creative agency within your dharma than most people realize. Sankhya Philosophy — One of the oldest schools of Vedic thought. It draws a distinction between the eternal, unchanging observer self (purusha) and the world of matter and experience (prakriti). The idea is that much of human suffering comes from over-identifying with the roles, circumstances, and emotions of this life, rather than recognizing the part of you that simply witnesses. DARVO — Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender. A pattern where a person being held accountable responds by denying the behavior, going on the offensive, and repositioning themselves as the real victim. It can show up not only in abusive relationships but in everyday family and social dynamics whenever someone begins to claim more authentic boundaries or step outside expected roles. Bodhisattva — A figure in Buddhist tradition who has reached enlightenment but chooses to remain present in the world to help others reach the same understanding — an active, engaged way of being that meets suffering with awareness rather than avoidance. Nichiren Buddhism — A school of Buddhism founded in 13th-century Japan centering on the Lotus Sutra and the chanting practice of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. A core teaching is that enlightenment is accessible to ordinary people living ordinary lives, and the circumstances of your life are the very material through which awakening happens. About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About Valerie Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Book a Vibrant Vision Session If you know there's more for you — but you feel stuck, unable to bridge the gap between where you are and the life you truly feel pulled towards — a Vibrant Vision Session is for you. It's a rare chance to be deeply listened to, get honest about what you actually want, and get clear on what's been standing in the way. Book your session here Stay in the Loop Join the mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected] 📱 @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube

EPISODE SUMMARY In this conversation, I sit down with Michael Green, meditation teacher and Ayurvedic practitioner, for our third annual conversation exploring how self-study shapes our ability to navigate life's challenges. Michael shares his recent motorcycle accident in Bali and the moment his mind tried to spiral into catastrophic thinking — and how his meditation practice literally saved him from mental suffering. I open up about my experience returning to Japan after 13 years and discovering how much my relationship with myself has evolved through conscious self-observation. This episode is for anyone who's curious about the hidden ways we sabotage ourselves and why taking full responsibility for our inner landscape is both terrifying and liberating. KEY MOMENTS [02:04] — I introduce the concept of svadhyaya (self-study) as one of the three kriyas in yoga, explaining how it relates to discipline, surrender, and gaining equanimity [04:17] — I share how moving back to Japan has become a laboratory for observing my personal growth over the past 13 years [12:56] — Michael reflects on how meditation teachers can't authentically teach without practicing on themselves, and why self-care is actually service to others [37:02] — Michael recounts his motorcycle accident in Bali and the pivotal moment when he chose to redirect his attention from catastrophic thoughts back to his body [42:47] — Michael explores the seductive nature of victim mode and why spiraling into negativity can feel comfortable and familiar [52:16] — I introduce the thought exercise from "The Courage to Be Disliked" about flipping our assumptions — considering that we might be creating our own obstacles [54:27] — Michael shares Bashar's concept of unconsciously associating what we want with fear of change, keeping us stuck in safer but less fulfilling situations [59:27] — I reflect on how living between cultures creates unique opportunities to identify what makes us essentially human versus what's just conditioning ABOUT OUR GUEST Michael Green is a meditation teacher and certified Ayurvedic Practitioner who completed his meditation teacher training at UCLA's Mindful Awareness Research Center. Since his first 10-day Vipassana retreat in India in 2007, he's studied various meditation traditions including Dzogchen and Tibetan Buddhism. After 20 years between New York City and Los Angeles, he's now based in Bali, where he continues teaching and practicing. GUEST LINKS www.michaelgreenayurveda.com michaelgreenayurveda.substack.com t.me/michaelgreenayurveda ABOUT THE SHOW From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. ABOUT VALERIE Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Book a Vibrant Vision Session If you know there's more for you — but you feel stuck, unable to bridge the gap between where you are and the life you truly feel pulled towards — a Vibrant Vision Session is for you. It's a rare chance to be deeply listened to, get honest about what you actually want, and get clear on what's been standing in the way. Book your session here Join the Newsletter Join my mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected]📱 @vibrantvisionary.val📺 YouTube Production: Madeleine Reede

About This Episode I'm sharing something rare today — a complete transformation story from my Vibrant Visionary Collective member Tiffany Dyer, who gave us permission to share her vulnerably honest account with the world. This episode reveals what it truly takes — mind, body, and spirit — to fully transform and change your life, outlining the real challenges, setbacks, and triumphs over two years of deep work. While Tiffany's life looked successful on the outside, she knew something was fundamentally off after a profound retreat experience in Japan, and she chose to heed that call for change. This is for anyone who feels like they're white-knuckling through life despite doing "all the right things" and wonders what complete transformation actually looks like in practice. Key Moments [01:08] — I share how this is Tiffany's second True You Story and explain that she sounds like a completely different person because she is one. [03:24] — Tiffany opens up about how she used to cry during meditation and thought it was normal to feel quiet desperation when sitting still. [04:57] — She reflects on how working with Marie Kondo in Japan became the catalyst that made her realize the things she thought should matter simply don't. [07:25] — Tiffany gets real about white-knuckling through life, constantly feeling exhausted and behind, and making excuses for why she felt so terrible. [09:27] — She shares how she was silencing herself to avoid being seen or taking the risk of being rejected throughout her entire life. [13:15] — Tiffany reflects on her breakthrough realization that strength isn't something you naturally have but something you work hard to cultivate. [20:54] — She opens up about the hardest truth: sometimes you have to sacrifice who you were to become who you're meant to be. [22:12] — Tiffany contrasts her old self who avoided problems with her new self who expects integrity and protects her energy. About the Guest Tiff Dyer is a member of the Vibrant Visionary Collective who has undergone a complete life transformation over the past two years. Her journey began with a pivotal realization: something had to change, or she’d miss out on living life to its fullest. That moment pushed her to take an honest look at herself, shedding habits that no longer served her and building a life rooted in vitality, connection and self-reflection. Through fitness and participating in the Vibrant Visionary Collective, she transformed not just her body, but her mind and spirit, losing 25% of her starting body weight while gaining strength, discipline, and confidence. Grounded in the belief that potential is limitless, she embraces consistency and perseverance as the path to lasting change. Now pursuing competitive bodybuilding, she aims to inspire others to step into their power and become the strongest version of themselves. Guest Links Instagram: @tifflivingfit About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About Valerie Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Book a Vibrant Vision Session If you know there's more for you — but you feel stuck, unable to bridge the gap between where you are and the life you truly feel pulled towards — a Vibrant Vision Session is for you. It's a rare chance to be deeply listened to, get honest about what you actually want, and get clear on what's been standing in the way. Book your session here Stay in the Loop Join the mailing list for weekly reflections and episode announcements. Subscribe here Connect 📬 [email protected]📱 @vibrantvisionary.val📺 YouTube Production: Madeleine Reede

After 65+ episodes, Valerie is done filtering herself. In this solo episode, she speaks freely about what she's actually been learning — living in Japan, stepping away from social media, and questioning spaces that promise transformation but deliver performance. This is part reflection, part honest reckoning with the goals she used to chase and no longer wants. If you've ever felt like you were succeeding at the wrong life, this one is for you. Key Moments [00:33] — Talking into the void turned out to be freeing — Valerie opens up about why the silence pushed her toward more honesty, not less. [02:05] — She shares what it's actually been like stepping into new environments and challenges later in life, and what that's revealed about identity. [05:31] — Why she experimented with being a content creator — and what made her walk away from it entirely. [07:15] — What experiences like Mindvalley taught her: that goals like fame, money, and influence had stopped belonging to her long before she admitted it. [14:28] — Success isn't about having more. It's about getting precise about what you actually want — and building your life around that instead. [18:45] — What genuinely brings her joy now: connection, creativity, presence, and the kind of simple experiences that don't perform well on Instagram. [24:20] — On the real danger of blindly following others, and why choosing your influences carefully might be the most underrated act of self-respect. About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they're fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It's not about becoming someone new — it's about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word-of-mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who've been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. This Week's Invitation Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint — a practical guide to reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 https://www.thevibrantvisionary.com Connect 📬 [email protected]  IG: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@the-vibrant-visionary Production: Madeleine Reede

In this episode, I sit down with Cate Stillman to explore the intersection of psychedelics, Ayurveda, and what she calls "primal habits." We talk about how ancient biological rhythms, fasting practices, movement, and even controversial healing methods may influence the microbiome, the nervous system, and our overall consciousness. Cate shares why she believes many of the practices we consider "alternative" today are actually rooted in deeply human, pre-cultural behaviors. From circadian rhythms and group detox practices to the growing conversation around micro-dosing and the Amanita mushroom, this discussion explores what happens when we return to the body's innate intelligence. Ultimately, we come back to a simple but powerful idea: many of the tools for healing and awakening are already built into our biology. When we reconnect with rhythm, movement, breath, and community, we begin to rediscover what it means to leave in alignment with our most primal nature. Key Moments [03:45] Why psychedelics were historically used within ritual and controlled settings [14:12] The importance of set and setting: how mindset, safety, and experience shape psychedelic outcomes. [28:06] How circadian rhythms became the foundation of Cate’s work in Ayurveda—and why simple daily habits can dramatically shift health. [52:17] What “primal habits” are and why Cate believes they existed long before culture, religion, or modern wellness frameworks [01:03:08] Valerie explains how movement practices like dancing, crawling, and hanging can act as primal medicine by releasing fascia and moving energy through the body. [1:06:38] Cate introduces the Amanita mushroom and shares her personal experience experimenting with it as a way to support nervous system healing. [01:16:00] How microdosing and fasting practices can help reset cravings, detox fat tissue, and shift long-standing behavioral patterns. About Our Guest Cate Stillman is a pioneer in ancient-meets-modern health and the founder and CEO of Club Thrive Global and Wellness Pro Academy. She built her first company, Yogahealer.com, by passing forward the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda and Yoga to a global audience. Through her work, Cate helps people resolve chronic symptoms, ignite ambition, and develop the collaborative intelligence needed to truly thrive. A global leader, entrepreneur, and podcaster, Cate bridges ancient practices with modern science and systems thinking. Her work invites people to “rewild” their health, reconnect with purpose, and reclaim agency over their bodies and lives. Cate is the author of several books including Body Thrive, Master of You, Uninflamed, Primal Habits, and Witch’s Cancer Journal. Connect with Cate Club Thrive Globalhttps://clubthrive.global/ Wellness Pro Academyhttps://wellnesspro.academy/ Articles & Talks The Hero’s Microbiome Journey: Psychedelics, Ancient Practices & the Gut-Brain Connectionhttps://catestillman.com/the-heros-microbiome-journey-psychedelics-ancient-practices-and-the-gut-brain-connection/ Interview with John Douillard (Urine Therapy)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gu78MJ27ll4 Books Uninflamed Primal Habits Witch’s Cancer Journal About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a space for people who are tired of pretending they’re fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self‑trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word‑of‑mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who’ve been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Dive Deeper with Us: Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: a practical and powerful guide for those ready to rise from the ashes and start living a life that is truly yours: 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the‑vibrant‑visionary Book a 1:1 Call: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/contact

Some conversations feel like peeling back layers in real time. It happens when conversations are met with courage, curiosity, and vulnerability.  My friend and colleague Tarna Fuller, Ayurvedic practitioner, respiratory therapist, mom of five, and founder of Lotus Honey Integrative Health — joined me for an intimate conversation about childhood trauma, survival patterns, shrinking, ambition, and what it actually takes to become fully seen. We talked about abuse. Poverty. Spirituality. Marriage. Business. Motherhood. And the quiet, ongoing work of recognizing the patterns that once protected us… but no longer serve us. This episode is about self-mastery — not the flashy kind, but the layered, humbling, “I’m still working on it” kind. I’m grateful for Tarna for sharing her story, and also holding space for me to reflect on what I’m still working on.  If you feel like you’re not smart enough, powerful enough or important enough to have a say or make an impact, we want you to know that the world doesn’t get to decide how big you want to play - you do. And we’re cheering you on to go for the sun.  Expect powerful insights on: Why shrinking is often a survival response that follows us into adulthood The difference between choosing your hard and unconsciously suffering Why inviting “no” can actually build confidence What sacred ambition looks like when it’s rooted in service How to pursue impact without abandoning yourself About Our Guest: Tarna Fuller is an Ayurvedic practitioner, respiratory therapist, yoga teacher, and founder of Lotus Honey Integrative Health. She helps caring, high-achieving women release patterns of over-functioning, burnout, and self-abandonment that once helped them survive — but no longer support their health or vitality. Blending ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with nervous-system awareness and modern life context, Tarna supports women in rebuilding their health without blowing up the life they’ve built. She is the creator of the Lotus Honey Health Club and serves on the board of the Colorado Ayurvedic Medical Association and Orange Door Community Wellness, advancing accessible, integrative wellness in her local community. She is also a mom of five children and one very loved dog — living the real-time practice of the work she teaches. Connect with Tarna: 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LotusHoneyHealth📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TarnaFuller🌿 Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/detox-5878/ About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a space for people who are tired of pretending they’re fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self‑trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word‑of‑mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who’ve been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Dive Deeper with Us: Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: a practical and powerful guide for those ready to rise from the ashes and start living a life that is truly yours: 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the‑vibrant‑visionary Book a 1:1 Call: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/contact  

I met today's episode guest a decade ago in a very different time in my life. Back then, I had decided to drop my dance career, sell all of my stuff, and bought a one-way ticket to New Zealand. I ended up working part-time at a parkour gym called Flow Academy in Pakuranga, where I spent most of my time training acrobatics, tricks and parkour with a bunch of young kids. It was during this brief era that I met Tian, a fiery influencer personality and fellow martial arts tricking enthusiast. We didn't really get to know each other that well, but spent some fun times at the gym throwing down flips until I moved back to the States in 2017. Tian just so happened to be in Tokyo recently doing some of his own soul-searching, and I decided to reach out and reconnect. Just like mine, Tian's journey has been introspective, and we share the same enthusiasm for life-coaching, spirituality and self-discovery. Our reunion episode turned into an unfiltered conversation about identity, alignment, ego, and conscious evolution. Tian shares his journey from viral comedic influencer to a man reclaiming authenticity, depth, and purpose. We talk about depression, movement as medicine, spiritual discernment, and the tension between impact and self-expression. This conversation cuts straight to the core: You cannot guide others into alignment if you are disconnected from yourself. You cannot build a harmonious world from burnout. And you cannot follow someone else’s path to liberation if it isn’t true to your body. Key Moments [03:02] Tian reflects on going viral as a comedian and realizing the identity no longer felt aligned. [12:13 – 18:59] How tricking, tumbling, and movement build resilience—and why failing safely transforms your relationship to difficulty. [14:35] The difference between powering through and refining alignment in both movement and life. [22:33 – 28:56] A grounded conversation on dharma, artha, kama, and moksha—and how these principles apply to modern leadership. [30:00 – 33:26] The danger of rigid “this is the way” spirituality and losing personal discernment. [43:21 – 44:50] Health as the gateway to purpose—why vitality is foundational to clarity and impact. [47:00 – 50:02] Healthy ego vs. martyrdom—why service and self-expression must stay in balance. About Our Guest Tian is a movement athlete, creative, and life coach dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with their authentic path. Originally from China and raised in New Zealand, Tian’s journey spans viral influencer culture, deep personal reinvention, and spiritual exploration. His work centers on alignment, embodiment, and restoring balance between ego, play, and meaningful impact in the modern world. Connect with Tian on IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamtiantan About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a space for people who are tired of pretending they’re fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self‑trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned. It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word‑of‑mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who’ve been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly. Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Dive Deeper with Us: Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: a practical and powerful guide to reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire: 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the‑vibrant‑visionary Join the Vibrant Rhythm Studio Waitlist Something new is coming! The Vibrant Rhythm Studio is an upcoming online movement space centered on rhythm, dynamic movement, and embodied self‑expression. To be the first to hear when it launches—and receive early access—email Valerie with “Vibrant Rhythm Studio” in the subject line at [email protected]. I can’t wait to groove with you!  

What does integrity look like when the world is burning—and the old frameworks no longer fully hold? In this episode of From the Ashes, I sit down with Telfer McConaghay (formerly Veda Dave) for a grounded, unfiltered conversation about rage, grief, privilege, and the responsibility of choosing right action in chaotic times. I’ve waxed poetic about Telfer on my podcast before—because he is the real deal. Telfer is known for pushing the edges of the Ayurvedic world, bringing trauma‑informed, indigenous, and politically aware conversations into spaces that often resist them. We talk about what happens when curiosity puts you at odds with tradition, why dogma collapses under real‑world pressure, and how models meant to heal can become harmful when applied without context. This episode isn’t about having the correct ideology—because there is no single correct ideology.It’s about developing discernment, humility, and the courage to respond to reality as it actually is. Perhaps, if we all strive to see clearly, we can finally move humanity forward.   Key Moments p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [01:12] Discovering trauma‑informed Ayurveda and why it changed everything p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [03:35] The cost of “sticking your neck out” in conservative wellness spaces p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [07:35] “All models are wrong, but some are useful.” p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [10:48] When good intentions turn into spiritual colonization p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [13:32] Rage, grief, and moral superiority p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [15:32] Transmuting anger into clarity and focused action p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> [20:15] Privilege, leaving the U.S., and choosing not to pick up the gun About Our Guest Telfer McConaghay is a Wild Mind Guide and founder of Ecotone Academy, offering embodied education for the evolution from ego‑ to eco-centric ways of being.His expertise bridges Ayurveda, Vedic Astrology, Internal Family Systems, and the Nature‑Based Map of the Human Psyche.The name Telfer means “one who destroys without malice,” and this is his gift: helping wise people kindly destroy outdated identities in order to embody their most authentic self. Connect with Telfer: 🌎 www.ecotone.academy  📱 Instagram: @telfer.wildmindguide 📰 Wild Mind Substack   About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary — a space for people who are tired of pretending they’re fine and hungry for a more honest way of living.This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self‑trust, and vibrant authenticity. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves.Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles yet still hold a quiet vision for something more aligned.It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about remembering who you are, and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, please share it or leave a review. These conversations grow through word‑of‑mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic Practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary.Her work is for people who feel disconnected or discouraged yet long for a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who’ve been knocked down by life but still desire to create boldly.Through From the Ashes, she hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint — a practical and powerful guide to reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire:👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie:📬 Email: [email protected]📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the‑vibrant‑visionary Join the Vibrant Rhythm Studio Waitlist Something new is coming! The Vibrant Rhythm Studio is an upcoming online movement space centered on rhythm, dynamic movement, and embodied self‑expression.To be the first to hear when it launches—and receive early access—email Valerie with “Vibrant Rhythm Studio” in the subject line at [email protected] can’t wait to move into this next chapter with you. 

Our first interview episode of From the Ashes comes in hot, following this year’s intention to hold bold and courageous dialogue. I sit down with healing justice practitioner, organizer, and bioregional herbalist Asia Dorsey for an unfiltered conversation about burnout, activism, and the moment you choose to stop sacrificing your body for the work. Asia shares her journey from decades of frontline organizing to a profound reckoning with depression, depletion, and the culture of martyrdom embedded in social change movements. Together, we explore what it means to lay down the sword, reclaim the body as a site of liberation, and build futures rooted in nourishment, restoration, and collective care. This episode is an invitation to rethink healing not as an individual luxury, but as a revolutionary act of self-protection and possibility. At a time when we are being called to reclaim our sovereignty, Asia’s story highlights an essential truth: healing starts with ourselves. Key Moments [01:06–01:53] I introduce Asia Dorsey, her work with Bones, Bugs, and Botany, and the concept of embodied liberation rooted in relationship rather than politics. [03:37–08:33] Asia shares her origin story—from a protected childhood in Colorado to NYU, environmental law aspirations, activist burnout, physical illness, and deep depression. [14:17–17:56] A powerful discussion on activists as modern-day warriors, the lack of communal care, martyrdom, and the unsustainability of sacrificing the body for justice work. [19:39–25:59] Asia recounts her healing turning point: discovering food as medicine, healing depression through gut health, learning to listen to the body, and recognizing herself as someone worth caring for. [48:49–53:19] We define healing justice, democratizing access to healing tools, reclaiming food and plants as medicine, and restoring people’s capacity to care for themselves and their communities. About Our Guest Asia Dorsey is an organizational consultant, educator, and bioregional herbalist based in Denver, Colorado. Her work sits at the intersection of healing justice, ancestral foodways, and regenerative systems change. Raised in Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood, Asia’s journey spans decades of grassroots organizing, global study of traditional food systems and ecological design, and a profound personal reckoning with burnout after years of frontline activism. Through her own healing, she shifted from sacrificing her body for the cause to learning the pattern language of restoration—reclaiming health through living foods, fermentation, herbal medicine, and nervous system repair. Today, Asia weaves food, plant medicine, yoga nidra, and organizational strategy to support individuals and institutions in building resilient, life-affirming futures that honor both people and planet. Connect with Asia About Asia: https://www.bonesbugsandbotany.com/about  Asia's Upcoming Program, Food Genius: https://bonesbugsandbotany.circle.so/foodgenius  About the Show From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary—a space for people who are tired of pretending they’re fine and hungry for a more honest way of living. This podcast is devoted to bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue that empower healing, self-trust, and authentic, vibrant living. Rather than chasing certainty or success for its own sake, From the Ashes explores what it means to live with intention in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. Through thoughtful, unfiltered conversations, this show is for those who feel alone in their struggles, worn down by life, yet still quietly holding a vision for something more aligned. It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about remembering who you are and daring to believe your desires are worth listening to. If this episode resonated, consider sharing it or leaving a review. These conversations grow through word of mouth, and your voice helps them reach the people who need them. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work supports people who feel disconnected, discouraged, or uncertain, yet deeply desire a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie works with those who are afraid to be “delusional” in their ambitions because life has knocked them down, and who need encouragement, perspective, and real support to remember that the life they want is still possible. Through From the Ashes, Valerie hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: a practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie 📬 Email: [email protected]  📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the-vibrant-visionary

Season 4 of From the Ashes begins with intention. After more than 60 episodes of this podcast, something has become very clear to me. The magic isn’t in how smart or accomplished my guests are. It’s not only in the depth of wisdom they carry or the titles they’ve earned. The real magic lives in the conversation itself, and in what happens when two people are willing to listen deeply, challenge assumptions, explore the tensions of real life, and come out of the dialogue feeling clearer, more connected, and more alive. That realization is shaping this entire season. This season marks a shift. From the Ashes is moving intentionally toward bold conversations and evolutionary dialogue: conversations that aren’t here to promote, perform, or repeat what’s already been said, but to evolve ideas, deepen understanding, and move us forward in meaningful ways. For 2026, my word of the year is intention. And with that comes a commitment to live, lead, and create with discernment. This podcast exists because I believe dialogue matters — especially in a world that often rewards noise over nuance, certainty over curiosity, and consumption over creation. If you’re here for deeper conversations, for dialogue that actually changes the people having it, and for a more intentional way of moving forward — welcome, and let's enjoy the ride together. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. Her work is for people who feel disconnected, discouraged, or uncertain, yet deeply desire a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true. Valerie supports those who are afraid to be “delusional” in their ambitions because life has knocked them down, and who need encouragement, perspective, and real support to remember that the life they want is still possible. Through From the Ashes, Valerie hosts conversations that prioritize honesty over performance, inquiry over dogma, and evolution over easy answers. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@the-vibrant-visionary

Season 3 Finale: Rising, Reflecting & What’s Next with Valerie Hwang Beck & Maddy Reede We made it to the end of Season 3! 🎉  This special finale episode of From the Ashes is a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes conversation between me and my incredible podcast producer, Maddy Reede — Vibrant Visionary Collective member and creative force who helped bring this entire season to life. Together, we reflect on the journey of Season 3, the power of storytelling, personal evolution, and what it truly means to rise from the ashes — not once, but over and over again. In This Episode Valerie and Maddy dive into Valerie’s move to Japan and what it unlocked emotionally and creatively, the way healing restores choice and agency, and why growth is never linear — and never meant to be. They reflect on radical self-responsibility, sovereignty in health and life, and the courage it takes to try something new, even when it doesn’t turn out the way you imagined. This episode also offers a glimpse into what’s coming next — including new offerings, deeper embodiment work, and the continued evolution of From the Ashes and the Vibrant Visionary ecosystem. 💛 A Huge Thank You to Maddy Reede A massive shoutout to Maddy Reede for producing Season 3 with such care, presence, and heart — and for stepping onto the mic to close out the year together. Maddy, your devotion, curiosity, and love for this work shines through every episode. This season truly wouldn’t have been what it was without you. Last Chance: Vibrant Vision Session (2026 Planning) If you’re feeling the pull to make 2026 a true turning point, this is your invitation. I’m offering a limited number of free Vibrant Vision Sessions to help you map out what you genuinely want to create in your life — whether that’s deep healing, expansion, or a bold new chapter. This is a focused vision-mapping session designed to give you crystal-clear clarity and help you turn intention into grounded action. This is your last chance to book before the new year. Book your appointment here. 💃 Join the Vibrant Rhythm Studio Waitlist Something new is coming. The Vibrant Rhythm Studio is an upcoming online movement space centered on rhythm, dynamic movement, and embodied self-expression. If you want to be the first to hear when it launches and receive early access details, email me with “Vibrant Rhythm Studio” in the subject line at [email protected]. I can’t wait to move into this next chapter with you.   About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562

What if healing isn’t something you learn—but something you remember? In this crossover episode with Dr. Charlie Trinh, we explore a journey that moves from engineering and gaming at Disney… to ancient temples, spiritual awakenings, and the rediscovery of ancestral medicine. Charlie’s story mirrors so many purpose-driven visionaries who wake up one day realizing the life they built—no matter how impressive—no longer fits the truth of who they are. Together, we unpack what it means to move from player to creator in your own life, how intuitive knowing gets buried under survival conditioning, and why real sovereignty in health begins when you stop outsourcing your power and start listening to the intelligence already pulsing through your body. If you’ve ever felt the tension between who you were taught to be and who you’re becoming—this conversation will expand you. Key Moments: [03:29] — The moment he realized he wasn’t meant to play someone else’s game—he was meant to design his own life experience. [18:02] — A deep dive into why so many of us suppress our inner knowing—and how reconnecting to flow shifts our entire health and purpose. [29:27] — Charlie and I bridge Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, exploring how stagnation, disconnection, and ignoring inner signals creates disease—and how reconnecting to flow brings us back into alignment with ourselves. [32:57] — Charlie and I unpack why Western culture struggles to connect with subtlety, presence, intuition, and the “quiet knowing”—and how reclaiming this sensitivity is essential to being sovereign in your health. [44:41] — Charlie reveals the moment he understood that true healing couldn’t be outsourced—not to doctors, insurance systems, or spiritual authorities—and why health must begin with self-responsibility. [01:11:03] — Charlie and I explore how “innovative” health gadgets often replicate what ancient traditions understood intuitively—and why returning to natural rhythms is the ultimate technology. [01:20:12] —The conversation turns systemic: how waste, consumption, and cultural disconnection impact not only our bodies but future generations—and why true health requires both inner and outer stewardship. About Our Guest: Dr. Charlie Trinh is a doctor of acupuncture and Eastern medicine with an unconventional path: from the vibrant island of Martinique to the tech corridors of USC and Disney Interactive. After witnessing the toll that high-performance culture takes on physical and emotional well-being, he shifted from coding to cultivating health, studying at the American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Blending his background in technology with ancient Eastern wisdom, Dr. Trinh now specializes in helping modern professionals — especially men in tech — reconnect with their bodies, restore balance, and build sustainable wellness. His work centers on harmonizing technology with nature, deepening self-awareness, and empowering individuals to live with resilience and vitality. Connect with Dr. Charlie Trinh Cultivating Self (501c3) — Reclaiming Health Care Fellowship: https://www.cultivatingself.org/reclaiminghealthcarefellowship Self Healing Journey Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.CharlieTrinh Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cosmictrinhity   About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562

When the world feels like it’s falling apart, it’s easy to slip into survival mode — waiting for something external to change before we take action. But empowerment begins when we remember that as long as we are breathing, we have the ability to move forward. In this short, grounded episode, Valerie shares how to shift out of victim mindset without gaslighting yourself or forcing positivity. Through breath, awareness, and small intentional actions, you’ll learn how to reconnect to your power, regulate your nervous system, and create movement even in uncertain times. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The real nature of the victim mindset — why it’s not a flaw, but a nervous system response that can be transformed through awareness. How to re-empower yourself through the body — using breathwork and grounding to return to safety and presence. Practical ways to take aligned action — how small, consistent steps rebuild momentum and remind you of your capacity to create change. Resources Mentioned The Vibrant Visionary Blueprint — your free guide to reclaim energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: @the-vibrant-visionary

If Divine guidance comes to us in whispers, are you willing to quiet your mind enough to listen? In this soul-stirring conversation, I sit down with storyteller and creative director Tom Sun to explore what it truly means to rise from the ashes — to rediscover faith, purpose, and service after seasons of loss and burnout. From a career collapse that brought him to his knees to a life-changing phone call that awakened his connection with the divine, Tom shares how his rock bottom became the foundation for his purpose. Together, we dive deep into spirituality, obedience, dharma, and the delicate balance between ego and surrender. This episode is a reminder that purpose doesn’t come from perfection — it’s born through presence, perspective, and the willingness to walk through the fire with an open heart. Key Moments: [03:00] – Tom reflects on how hitting rock bottom led him to seek meaning and discover the spiritual side of resilience. [07:14] – Tom and I unpack the cultural expectations that shape identity and how following “the script” eventually stopped working. [16:00] – Tom recounts the story of losing everything, a pivotal conversation with his friend Cherry, and the spiritual awakening that followed. [32:00] – A vulnerable dialogue about belief, questioning, and surrender — and why both faith and science can lead us toward understanding. [48:00] – I reframe obedience as devotion to one’s higher purpose — aligning with the values that guide our soul’s mission. [52:00] – Tom shares the list of limiting beliefs he had to unlearn to stay grounded in service and gratitude. [59:00] – A heartfelt reflection on how small acts of service ripple through generations — and why being “of help” is the greatest purpose of all. About Our Guest: Tom Sun is a storyteller, entrepreneur, and creative director whose journey has been defined by resilience, faith, and the relentless pursuit of purpose. From humble beginnings marked by financial struggle and immigration challenges, Tom transformed adversity into a lifelong mission: to inspire others to find meaning in their own trials. His is the senior Marketing Director at PAVE Agency and KWA Performance Industries, and the founder of ventures including Section 55 and WOLF: Create & Conquer. Tom helps brands and communities grow by blending strategy with imagination. About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Explore Our Vibrant Visionary Blueprint Download my free guide: the Vibrant Visionary Blueprint - A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: @the-vibrant-visionary

What does it mean to decolonize mental health? In this solo episode of From the Ashes, I share some raw reflections fresh from the Colorado Ayurvedic Medical Association’s annual conference on Indigenous Ayurveda. What started as an invitation to teach primal movement in the context of capoeira turned into a deep reckoning with my own dharma, identity, and the systems we unconsciously give our power away to. Through my personal journey—woven through hip hop, capoeira, Ayurveda, and the quest to understand mental health beyond institutional models—I explore what it really means to decolonize healing. I realized that at the root of every true healing process is the same question: What happens when we stop outsourcing our well-being—and start listening to our own wisdom? This episode is my invitation to you to rethink how you define “health,” “healing,” and “authority.” Because maybe the real revolution begins when we dare to reclaim our innate birthright to heal ourselves and cultivate the strength of our inner voice. Key Moments: [01:27] Returning from the Colorado Ayurvedic Medical Association conference and what inspired this spontaneous recording [03:16] How Capoeira and Hip Hop taught me that healing begins with creation and community [04:46] Exploring what’s primal, what’s cultural, and what’s truly universal in the art of healing [07:42] Lessons from Indigenous and Ayurvedic medicine on balancing universality and cultural specificity [10:25] Owning my dharma: embracing my mission to decolonize health and mental wellness [15:26] Redefining health—not as the absence of disease, but as being established in the self [19:53] How creativity, intuition, and neurodivergence can be portals to our superpowers [23:01] The importance of discernment: how to recognize when “helping” becomes colonizing About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562

When Tiffany first reached out to me, she was exhausted—mentally, physically, and spiritually. She’d hit that point so many of us reach when success on paper no longer feels like fulfillment in the body. In this conversation, I sit down with Tiffany Gozali—one of my long-time clients and pioneer members of Club Phoenix—and now, a living embodiment of what it means to rise from the ashes. From feeling disconnected from her energy and body to becoming a disciplined athlete, leader and motivational voice, Tiffany’s transformation turned out far beyond my expectations, and she continues to forge her own way to this day. We talk about what it really takes to commit to yourself: to make investments of time, energy, and money not from fear, but from alignment. Tiffany shares how joining Club Phoenix (now the Vibrant Visionary) helped her rediscover her vitality, rebuild her confidence, and start leading her life from self-trust instead of self-doubt. If you’ve ever wondered whether change is really possible for you, this episode will remind you: it’s not about having it all together—it’s about having the courage to begin. Want to join me, Tiffany and the Vibrant Visionary Collective in 2026? Book a Call here and let's uncover your vision together. Key Moments: [01:06] – Tiffany describes the moment she realized her mind, body, and spirit were completely out of sync—and what finally pushed her to seek change. [05:27] – Valerie and Tiffany recall their first Club Phoenix hike and how a moment of fear at the edge became a metaphor for transformation. [09:39] –Tiffany reveals the early resistances she faced and the mindset shift that helped her stay consistent when growth felt uncomfortable. [13:12] – How foundational health, daily rhythms, and the Club Phoenix detox opened the door to Tiffany’s bodybuilding journey. [17:22] – Tiffany reflects on how group mentorship—and the True You storytelling exercise—helped her reclaim her voice and authenticity. [27:30] – Tiffany breaks down how she reallocated her “fun money” toward coaching, health, and training—and how that choice changed everything. [35:17] – Tiffany shares her evolving vision of leadership, legacy, and what it means to embody the message you want to bring into the world. About Our Guest: Tiffany Gozali is a Program Director for a joy-centered professional organizing community. She's passionate about inspiring growth and change – and seeking inspiration in others and her environment.  In 2024, after noticing a steady decline in her overall health and well-being, she made a powerful commitment to change. Partnering with lifestyle mentor Valerie and personal trainer/bodybuilding coach Eric, Tiffany embarked on a journey that led to a profound physical and mental transformation. Today, she’s living a life she once only imagined – and it keeps getting better. A dedicated fitness and bodybuilding enthusiast, Tiffany believes that vitality, strength, and joy are not only possible but always within reach. IG: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanygozali   Tiffany's personal trainer, Eric Chan, CPT: ISSA-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach with over 15 years of experience. His mission at Fitted and Committed is to help you build strength, confidence, and lasting habits through personalized training and nutrition. Find out more at https://fittedandcommitted.net/ About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: @the-vibrant-visionary

What happens when the “bullet train” of success derails your health and forces you to choose between life and lifestyle? In this episode of From the Ashes, I sit down with my friend Mark Richard, whose story is nothing short of extraordinary. From a rough childhood in Los Angeles to becoming a top-producing San Francisco real estate agent, Mark drove himself to the brink...until stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma stopped him in his tracks. Instead of following conventional treatment, Mark turned toward natural healing: juicing vegetables, meditation, and radically changing his life. Against all odds, he reversed his cancer, reclaimed his vitality, and discovered a deeper love for life. This conversation is about more than health. It’s about what success costs us, and what we miss when we don’t slow down. Whether you’re chasing big goals or already feeling the toll of burnout, this episode will move you to ask: at what cost? Key Moments [01:35] Mark’s childhood of poverty, bullying, and survival—and how it shaped his relentless drive. [06:19] The warning signs he ignored while climbing to the top of real estate success. [09:43] Refusing conventional treatment and diving into deep research on natural healing. [11:18] Closing his million-dollar business and moving to the redwoods to save his life. [15:01] The sobering realization of what he missed with his children, wife, and life itself. [22:19] Talking with young entrepreneurs about the “bullet train” of success and its hidden costs. [33:42] The power of mindset, meditation, and visioning in his healing journey. About Our Guest Mark Richard grew up in a tough neighborhood in Los Angeles and learned how to survive early in life. That resilience and drive became a core part of his identity. A naturally curious and self-taught learner, he was passionate about science, mathematics, physics, biology, and electronics from a young age. At just eight years old, he built his first radio from salvaged TV parts, and ignited a lifelong love for discovery and innovation. He went on to study Physics and Mathematics at UC Berkeley, where he also met his wife. As their family grew to include four children, he pivoted into real estate to support them. By 2014, he had become one of the top-producing brokers across the nine counties of the San Francisco Bay Area, earning over a million dollars a year in personal commissions. But behind the success, he was running on empty—neglecting his health and balance. In 2016, he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, and everything changed. He shut down his business and walked away from his high-earning career to focus fully on healing. Relocating to the Redwoods of Northern California, Mark immersed himself in deep research on natural healing and holistic recovery. He created a comprehensive spreadsheet mapping types of cancer against healing protocols, identified patterns in survivor strategies, and followed them rigorously. The results were remarkable. Today, Mark shares what he learned with others navigating illness, offering insight, encouragement, and a living example of what’s possible when you combine science, intuition, and unshakable determination. Connect with Mark: https://youtube.com/@themarkoflife7777 https://www.facebook.com/mark.richard.10 About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562

In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with Kirsten Lane, a resilient woman whose journey through motherhood, loss, chronic illness, and transformation reveals the power of sovereignty and rebirth. From surviving a controlling relationship and the grief of losing her partner, to navigating menopause, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and burnout, Kirsten shares how she turned pain into power through daily rituals, body awareness, and embracing joy. Her story is one of radical self-listening, reclaiming vitality, and shining unapologetically. Together, we explore what it means to truly live—beyond survival—and how small, intentional practices can create monumental shifts. By the end of the episode, you’ll see how sovereignty, resilience, and curiosity can transform even the darkest chapters into a radiant new beginning. This episode includes mentions of suicidal thoughts and mental health struggles. Please listen with care. If you’re in a vulnerable place or need support, consider pressing pause or listening with someone you trust. Key Moments: [00:58] - Kirsten shares the challenges of single motherhood and raising her children while navigating her ex-partner’s struggles with mental illness. [03:24] - The breaking point: finding the courage to leave a controlling relationship and facing the aftermath of her partner’s tragic death. [06:00] - Struggling with pain, burnout, and menopause—when the medical system had no answers, Kirsten turned inward for healing. [07:28] - The lightbulb moment: learning to make “a holiday every day” through morning rituals, conscious walking, and breathwork. [09:13] - Discovering Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and reframing her relationship with her body through mobility training and strength practices. [17:06] - Embracing sovereignty: taking full responsibility for her healing and no longer waiting for outside rescue. [21:26] - A transformative week at Mindvalley—rebirth, reconnecting with her inner child, and reclaiming her joy through dance, ritual, and community. About Our Guest Kirsten Lane is a Grammy-nominated Music Supervisor in the UK with over 100 film credits, including Saltburn, Baby Driver, and the upcoming I Swear and The Running Man. A lifelong musician, she studied music at university and worked with major record labels before launching her own supervision company in 2001. Alongside her creative career, Kirsten is also a trained Traditional Chinese Acupuncturist, having run a clinic for many years after discovering its healing power through her own health journey. After decades of struggling with chronic health challenges—including Lyme disease, glandular fever, and more recently, the effects of perimenopause and long COVID—Kirsten was diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) in 2023. As a single mom, business owner, and sensitive soul, she knew it was time to stop surviving and start thriving. Through self-led health optimization and daily embodiment practices, she’s now stronger and more aligned than ever—and on a mission to help others transform burnout into vitality through deeper self-awareness and compassionate care. About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @vibrantvisionary.val 📺 YouTube: @the-vibrant-visionary

During my adventures in Amsterdam at Mindvalley U this summer, I had the opportunity to meet the wonderful Paul Gotel, former music industry mogul turned inspirational speaker and author with an incredible life story to tell. What struck me about Paul is his dynamic energy and loving spirit, and his unapologetic mission to help people start their own inner revolutions towards authenticity. During our conversation, I was deeply moved by his radical honesty about success, burnout, and the illusions we trade for authenticity. We unpack what it really means to live in alignment. Not chasing approval, not clinging to material gain, but reclaiming the intrinsic value we were born with. Paul shares his story of building a wildly successful career, only to dismantle it all in search of true peace and presence. Together, we explore how to trust life’s losses as purification, why fulfillment is found in authentic expression, and how to embrace a new “operating system” rooted in love, curiosity, and surrender. Key Moments: [02:01] Paul describes his early rebellion and the path that led him to question everything [09:12] The turning point in Paul’s career when success became pressure instead of joy [17:23] Redefining success: how chasing approval devalues our intrinsic worth [27:13] The power of stripping away false identities to reveal our truest expression [37:25] How leaning into resistance and welcoming loss can create freedom and lightness [48:15] Paul’s near-death experiences and what they taught him about identity and surrender [53:23] Living as love: shifting from seeking to simply being. About Our Guest: Paul Gotel - INNERPOWER - THE BIG U- EXSTATIC❤HEART (Author, Life Coach, Inspirational Speaker, & Ecstatic Dance DJ) Certifications include - Starfire Transformational Leadership; Fire-walk Instructor, Hypnotherapist; 7th level Reiki master; Tantra - ISTA and Quodushka Graduate  After a very successful 20-year career in the music Industry, Paul retired at 33. Disillusioned with the world of Money and fame, he took a 5-year spiritual odyssey to over 97 countries, visiting Scared Sites and Religious communities. Living with Aborigines in Australia, Bedouins in Egypt and monks in Tibet he drank up all their ancient wisdom and distilled it into a new operating system for life, he calls OS3 for Humans. Now living in Maui, Hawaii, Paul completed his book The BIG U - A Guide to Self Revolution, and travels the world speaking at places, igniting Self Revolution in all he meets, speaking at events like Mindvalley and Nomad Cruise , and unearthing the limitations we all live with to liberate us from our identities. Supporting people to live as a Fluidity, without the restriction of attachment to our identities, we can truly play BIG in our world. Paul's Website: https://www.paulgotel.com/ Paul's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulgotel About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562  

In this inspiring conversation from Amsterdam, I sit down with my new friend Kiki Fukai, an ikigai coach and digital nomad from Japan, whose life changed dramatically after a devastating snowboarding accident. With her entire face shattered and her life hanging by a thread, Kiki chose not to remain a victim but to rise stronger—embracing her pain as fuel for transformation. From surviving multiple surgeries to rebuilding her identity, she now empowers others to discover their ikigai, or life purpose, while living with freedom and authenticity. Together, we explore resilience, positivity, Japanese cultural challenges around self-expression, and what it means to step boldly into a life of meaning. This is a story of courage, healing, and becoming unstoppable. Key Moments: [01:20] - Kiki introduces herself as an ikigai coach and digital nomad, sharing her joy in creating location and time independence after years in corporate Japan. [01:58] - She recalls the snowboarding accident in Nagano that shattered her skull, left her in a 14-hour surgery, and nearly cost her life. [03:32] - After surgery, Kiki describes the unbearable pain and feeling like she was drowning, wishing for death before deciding to fight for a new version of herself. [05:53] - She shares her turning point—wanting to live in a way that honored the version of herself who endured such pain, setting the intention to rise stronger than before. [09:16] - Kiki explains how her fitness practice, now over 1,300 days strong, keeps her positive and grounded—not just for the body, but for her mental health. [11:13] - Through meeting digital nomads and inspired coaches worldwide, she found her calling in coaching, helping others pursue freedom and purpose beyond cultural expectations. [20:53] - Kiki reveals her next goals: publishing a book, launching courses, and creating a diverse community where Japanese and international people can connect and thrive. About Our Guest: Kiki Fukai is a digital nomad, soul coach, and founder of Vitamin KIKI—serving as a “vitamin for the soul” for purpose-seekers around the world. Having traveled to over 60 countries, her journey of self-discovery began early with childhood meditation and a burning question: “Why was I born?” That inquiry led her through decades of exploration, eventually guiding her to the Japanese concept of Ikigai—living in alignment with your unique purpose. After surviving a snowboarding accident in 2023 that left her partially paralyzed, Kiki deepened her relationship with resilience, learning firsthand how healing comes through small, consistent actions. Today, she empowers others to uncover their purpose and turn it into aligned, embodied impact—one life at a time. Learn more at vitamin-kiki.com. About the Show: From the Ashes is part of The Vibrant Visionary: a movement to help people reclaim their health, power, and freedom, and shift the world toward a more harmonious, balanced, and compassionate way of living and thriving together. Through deep, unfiltered conversations with purpose-driven leaders, healers, creatives, and change-makers, this podcast invites you to rise into your full potential—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who you truly are. If this episode moved you, please share it or leave a review. Your voice helps amplify the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a Vitality & Vision Mentor, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of The Vibrant Visionary. She helps high-achieving creatives and leaders recover from burnout and realign with their true rhythm, so they can build a life that reflects their purpose, vitality, and voice. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares honest, embodied stories that awaken transformation and celebrate the art of becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Download the free Vibrant Visionary Blueprint: A practical and powerful guide to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and creative fire. 👉 thevibrantvisionary.com Everything starts here. Connect with Valerie: 📬 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 📺 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562

I had the privilege of interviewing some remarkable souls during my adventures at Mindvalley U this year in Amsterdam. From world-class DJs to wandering nomads, hundreds of soul-seeking travelers from all around the globe gathered for two weeks of connection and personal growth. I knew that there would be people with incredible stories to share, and I was not wrong! In this episode of From the Ashes, I sit down with Karms Fung, who shares her remarkable journey from a high-achieving corporate career to rediscovering purpose and alignment through Vipassana meditation and deep inner healing. Together, we explore how survival-driven ambition can transform into authentic freedom, why love and compassion are at the heart of true fulfillment, and how breaking free from expectations can open the door to living with purpose. Karms’ story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of rewriting your own definition of success. In this episode, we explore: Vipassana as a life-changing turning point. Breaking free from the trap of corporate success. Childhood wounds as fuel for ambition. Redefining success through love and compassion. Building a life of freedom and purpose. Key Moments: [01:09]- Karms describes her decision to leave corporate life and commit to a 10-day Vipassana retreat, despite her restless nature and skepticism. [03:17]- Karms shares the physical and mental battles of sitting in silence, from aching knees to wondering if she had joined a cult, and how she pushed through. [05:31]- On day six, Karms receives a profound realization: the true “gateway to heaven” is not belief alone but embodying love and compassion. [07:27]- Returning to Sydney, she finds herself transformed—kinder, calmer, even able to speak with her once-triggering mother without losing her peace. [14:38]- Karms recalls being left in Australia as a child, feeling abandoned and unloved, and how this pain fueled her relentless pursuit of money and success. [26:00]- Despite reaching financial freedom at 34, she experiences an existential crisis, realizing that wealth and titles brought no real happiness. [29:12]- Karms shares her current path as a coach, helping others find freedom and strength while working on her own challenge—public speaking in person. About Our Guest: Karms Fung is a CPA with over 15 years of experience in accounting, working in government delivering billion dollar projects - but her real transformation began when she traded spreadsheets for soul work. Now an online business coach and certified NLP trainer, Karms helps entrepreneurs and high achievers turn their strengths into income and their purpose into profit. She is the founder of Excel Purpose, hosting one of the most inspiring personal development book clubs in Australia - where celebrity authors like Lewis Howes, Lisa Bilyeu and Evan Carmichael have made guest appearances. Known for her contagious energy and sharp insights, Karms blends business strategy with mindset mastery to help others rise with confidence to create impact. About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of The Vibrant Visionary, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: https://www.thevibrantvisionary.com 📧 Join my email list   Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

In this week's episode of From the Ashes, I sit down with writer and former Silicon Valley leader Sabra Meretab, who shares her deeply personal story of navigating burnout, imposter syndrome, and what she calls “hero syndrome.” From excelling in corporate at Stripe to writing her first memoir, Sabra opens up about the inner reckoning that changed her life, and how she chose to heal from within rather than run away. We talk about the hidden roots of burnout that start in childhood, the cultural glorification of overachievement, and how self-doubt can actually be a signpost toward your soul’s calling. Sabra shares the courage it took to not just leave her job, but to stay long enough to reclaim her power before walking away. This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever felt like they had to be everything to everyone… at the cost of themselves. In this episode, we explore: How perfectionism and pressure take root in childhood Why burnout is often self-sourced, not just structural The dangers of hero syndrome in high-performing workplaces How to honor your ambition without sacrificing your wellbeing Why vulnerability is the missing key in corporate leadership Key Moments: [02:37] – The early roots of burnout – Sabra’s childhood drive for perfectionism that evolved into chronic stress [06:00] – The body’s warning system – Sabra’s migraines, insomnia, and hair loss as signals it was time to change [14:59] – Healing in place – how Sabra stayed in her role while lightening the load and rebuilding self-trust before stepping out [19:44] – Self-doubt as a compass – Sabra’s belief that fear points toward what you truly desire [25:44] – Tools for shadow work – journaling, reading, and a micro-step approach to moving through fear [35:10] – Breaking hero syndrome – reflections on releasing the pressure to always be the one who saves the day [51:22] – Health is wealth – how strength training and nourishing her body transformed Sabra’s creative and emotional flow About Our Guest: Sabra Meretab is a writer and trusted technical advisor with years of experience leading high-stakes initiatives, including high-budget engineering programs, large-scale project launches, and company-wide transformations. Sabra specializes in building the systems that help organizations scale and execute complex business strategy without burning out their people, combining operational rigor with a thoughtful approach to culture and communication. Whether guiding fast-growing startups or advising executive teams, Sabra focuses on building long-term organizational resilience: creating environments where business success and human sustainability coexist. Connect with Sabra: https://snackablegrowth.substack.com www.sabrameretab.com https://www.instagram.com/snackablegrowth/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/c/SabraMeretabStudios   About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

In this solo episode, I share my raw, reflective experience completing a 72-hour water fast—something I once thought I’d never do. From initial skepticism to Ayurvedic insights, I walk you through the why, how, and who should or shouldn't try this powerful practice. We explore fasting as a spiritual and biological reset, and how our motivations—survival vs. thriving—deeply affect the outcome. I also get real about how trauma, dosha imbalances, and hustle culture can dangerously distort our relationship with fasting. Whether you’re curious about how fasting can improve immunity, reduce inflammation, and sharpen your mind—or you’re just navigating burnout and want clarity—this episode invites you to reflect on your inner reserves and your intention. Fasting, when done with reverence, can be more than a detox—it can be a homecoming. Expect powerful insights on: The Ayurvedic lens on who should and should not fast The science behind a 72-hour water fast My personal reasons, hesitations, and lessons Why mindset is everything: devotion vs. punishment How fasting exposed hidden habits, trauma, and resilience Subtle signs that you're not ready to fast—and what to do instead What “ojas” really means and why it matters more than willpower   Key Moments: [05:58] - The motivation & mindset behind my opinions on fasting. [07:49]- Fasting as an act of reverence, not deprivation. [09:14]- The science behind the benefits of fasting. [13:06]- How to shift your lifestyle to sustain a fast. [19:23] - How to navigate a fast using Ayurvedic principles [20:22] - Cautions and contraindications against fasting. [28:49] - What I got out of my 72-hr fasting experience. About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

In this episode of From the Ashes, I dig deep into one of the most universal blocks on the journey to personal transformation: getting out of our own way. I share personal stories, cultural reflections, and the mindset shifts I’ve experienced—and continue to practice—to move beyond self-sabotage. We unpack why so many of us know what we want but stop short of going after it, and how invisible “rules,” survival programming, and old belief systems keep us stuck. I also walk you through powerful journal prompts and four essential tools that can truly shift your trajectory. 🔥 If you’re feeling that tug in your soul to do more, be more, and live in full alignment—this one’s for you. Key Moments: [01:00] – I shared a story about a man who wanted to get healthier—but stopped short with “That’s something to think about.” That moment reminded me how often we delay aligned action and let our minds talk us out of doing the simple next thing. [03:11] – The reason we stall, hesitate, and hold ourselves back is self-sabotage. Sometimes we know exactly what we want—and still don’t act on it. That awareness is step one. [05:07] – A big question: What’s the thing you’re afraid to admit you want? Not the “nice to have,” but the truth beneath all the conditioning and fear. That’s where your power lives. [07:33] – I introduced the idea of “BRULES”—bullsh*t rules we unconsciously live by. From how we were raised to what society tells us, these are the rules keeping us small. And we get to opt out. [13:14] – I talked about obedience, cultural conditioning, and how it forms a survival mindset. Obedience kept me safe as a kid, but as an adult, I realized it was blocking my voice, joy, and freedom. [20:04] – I shared what I believe are the four keys to truly breaking free and how without these, we usually stay stuck in the same patterns, just hoping something shifts. [23:20] – I reminded myself—and you—that staying stuck is hard, too. Thriving takes courage, but the cost of not choosing your dreams? That’s a different kind of pain. And we get to choose our “hard.” About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list   Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

In this episode, I reflect deeply on a truth many of us avoid: that waiting until the brink of collapse before taking care of ourselves can be devastating. I explore how burnout creeps in, often disguised in small, overlooked symptoms, and how ancient Ayurvedic wisdom can help us recognize and reverse imbalances before they manifest as serious disease. I share personal stories, client experiences, and candid insights into why we push ourselves to the edge—and how we can choose differently. This is a call to reclaim our energy, trust ourselves, and courageously prioritize well-being in a culture that glorifies hustle and depletion. Key Points Why waiting until crisis to care for yourself is a dangerous cultural norm Recognizing early signs of burnout before your body forces a breakdown How Ayurveda reveals imbalance in digestion before disease takes hold The progression of burnout and imbalance—what stage are you in? The hidden cost of overfunctioning, guilt, and inherited pressure to “keep going” Why your boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re the foundation of sustainability A simple reflection to define your 3 non-negotiables for energy and well-being About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list 💖 Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with a fellow visionary. Your support helps ignite more stories of hope, healing, and becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

This week’s episode is a real-time reflection from the floor of my office, sparked by something I’ve been unpacking in my own life and in Club Phoenix lately: joy. More specifically—why I’ve been choking my own joy, even while teaching others how to live in alignment. In this solo episode, I explore my Flowstate Framework and how each pillar (purpose, abundance, freedom, and fulfillment) feeds into the others. Joy is an aspect of fulfillment, where we derive pleasure from doing something meaningful in our lives. I unpack how easy it is to choke our own joy when we feel like we have to earn it—or delay it until after the next milestone. And I share why joy isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s essential. Key Moments: [01:06] - Valerie reveals how suppressing joy affects abundance, purpose, and freedom in her own life. [02:10] - A modern interpretation of ancient wisdom: joy, purpose, abundance, and freedom as pillars for a fulfilled life. [07:33] - Redefining joy as a vital, everyday practice—not something saved for special occasions. [10:54] - Why waiting for the end goal to be happy can backfire—especially for entrepreneurs and goal-setters. [13:06] - Valerie unpacks how fulfillment lives in the process, not just the finish line. [17:22] - From gym sessions to aromatherapy, Valerie shares her evolving, personalized joy rituals. [21:07] - How joy reveals your true calling—and strengthens all other life pillars   About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

What does it mean to heal at the root—not just to feel better, but to become whole again? In this deeply resonant episode, I sit down with Elizabeth Stauder—somatic transformation coach, quantum healing guide, and fellow rebel soul—to explore what it means to return to the wisdom of the body, to grieve and awaken simultaneously, and to walk the long road of self-healing with curiosity and courage. Elizabeth’s story is not linear—and that’s exactly what makes it powerful. From navigating a life-altering autoimmune flare triggered by a vaccine injury, to unraveling inherited trauma and spiritual identity, she brings a nuanced and integrative perspective to healing that is as gentle as it is fierce. We talk about the nervous system, ancestral wounds, and quantum healing—and somehow it all weaves into a single thread: your body knows the way back to you. If you’ve ever felt like your healing journey is “too much” or wondered if anyone else could truly hold your bigness—this one is for you. Key Moments: [00:45] – Elizabeth’s story begins: losing her father, experiencing vaccine injury, and the unraveling of her physical and spiritual health [10:21] – What it means to separate grief, illness, and relational trauma to heal more deeply [16:54] – The quantum + ancestral healing intersection explained through the metaphor of the tree [25:37] – Healing panic and rage through somatic listening and spiritual reconnection [34:18] – Healthy boundaries vs. rigid ones—the importance of discernment in healthy boundaries [43:52] – From birth trauma to self-trust: how the beginning shapes our ability to belong to ourselves [55:05] – The “Healthy Rebel” vision for future family, community sanctuaries, and regenerative living About Our Guest Elizabeth Stauder is a somatic transformation coach, neuroplasticity expert, and regenerative wellness enthusiast who weaves neuroscience with soul retrieval and combines the quantum with the ancestral in restoring wholeness for mind-body-spirit healing. After nearly dying from a vaccine injury and spending months battling to restore her body & psyche from chronic disability and illness, she now understands viscerally the power that embodiment has in the awakening process. In her online community, Body & Soul Sanctuary, Elizabeth teaches the art and practice of Somatic Alchemy, whereby symptoms of trauma and dis-ease can be transmuted through the metamorphosis process into the fertile realization of dharma. Connect with Elizabeth NEWSLETTER WEBSITE FREE QUIZ My YOUTUBE channel About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

From running nightclubs with the mob in Chicago… to curating a culinary bookstore in Long Beach built on dialogue, not hype—Matt Miller has lived some stories. In this episode, I sit down with Matt—writer, food obsessive, and founder of Kitchen Lingo—to talk about the messy, meandering, totally unscripted path to building something that actually fits. What struck me most? He didn’t rush it. He sat across the street from the space for months before deciding what it should become. No grand launch. No five-year plan. Just coffee, curiosity, and the courage to wait until it felt right. We talk about identity pivots, business burnout, and what happens when you finally stop forcing your ideas and start listening instead. If you’ve ever second-guessed your creative choices or wished you had gone for that weird business idea—you might just be inspired to start trying again after listening to this episode. What’s Inside: Mob-adjacent nightlife lessons (yes, really) Why Matt gave up “being good” at something to do what he actually cared about The unexpected origin story of Kitchen Lingo Bookstore How to let your next idea reveal itself instead of rushing it Creative pivots, risk-taking, and giving yourself time to figure it out About Our Guest: Matt Miller is a culinary bookseller in Long Beach, California. He is a former restaurateur, wine specialist, coffee roaster and public radio show host. He has been a contributing food writer for LA Weekly, Eater Los Angeles, Eaten Magazine, and Delicious (UK). His recipes have appeared in Cooking Light Magazine and his food concepts have been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel. Connect with Matt: Website: https://www.kitchenlingobooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchenlingobooks/ About the Show: ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

In this episode of From the Ashes, I sat down with Human Design and nervous system guide Akary Busto  for an open, honest, and eye-opening conversation about how Human Design can help you reconnect with your true nature and unlock your full potential. To make the most out of listening to this episode, I highly recommend downloading your free personal Human Design chart at https://uhkare.com/  Akary didn’t start her journey in the wellness world—she was an international banker. But it wasn’t until she began facing the physical and emotional effects of her own trauma that she discovered the power of Human Design and somatic healing. What began as a personal search for clarity became a mission to help others regulate, realign, and remember who they truly are. And in this episode, she generously walks us through my own Human Design chart—offering real-time insight into some of my long-standing patterns, struggles, and gifts. You’ll hear us unpack the ways I’ve over-ridden my design in pursuit of success, and how I’m learning to realign with ease, clarity, and deep energetic truth. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “too much,” “too sensitive,” or not built for the way the world moves—you’re not alone. And you’re not broken. You may just be out of alignment with how you’re actually designed to operate This is a gentle, powerful invitation back to your body, your energy, and your truth. Key Moments [03:14] – Akary’s shift from international banker to energetic healer: when the body said “enough” [11:45] – Human Design decoded: not a label, but a map back to who you’ve always been [15:06] – Real-time insight into Valerie’s chart: how she’s overridden her natural design [21:37] – Valerie shares what it’s been like to live out of alignment (and what changed when she slowed down) [25:20] – Why nervous system regulation is the missing link in most personal growth work [30:58] – What it means to trust your “no” and lead from resonance, not pressure [36:11] – The invitation: release performance, reclaim presence, and live your potential About Our Guest Akary Busto is a Nervous System Guide, Emotional Biohacker, and Human Design mentor who helps women regulate, realign, and reconnect to their true energy blueprint. She weaves together trauma-informed practices, somatic awareness, and energetic tools that calm the mind, soften the heart, and bring the body back into coherence. Think: feeling grounded instead of reactive, clear instead of scattered, and connected instead of overwhelmed. Her work is rooted in evolution, sovereignty, and softness—and is made for those who are done trying to “fix themselves” and are ready to feel safe, powerful, and at home in who they already are. Akary’s Links Website: https://uhkare.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uhkarebreathwork/ About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list 💖 Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with a fellow visionary. Your support helps ignite more stories of hope, healing, and becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives

What if the path to your purpose isn't about following a formula—but listening deeply, leaning into fear, and saying yes to what lights you up? In this solo season premiere of From the Ashes, I share the story of how a spontaneous decision to attend a retreat in Japan reignited a long-lost part of me—and reminded me that reclaiming your unique potential often starts with one bold, intuitive leap. From journaling breakthroughs and digital detoxes to multilingual dinner parties with strangers and a renewed global mission, this episode is an invitation to reflect, realign, and remember: your life doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful. If you’ve been feeling stuck, disconnected, or like there’s a dream you keep talking yourself out of—this episode is your nudge. In this episode I discuss: How journaling and The Artist’s Way cracked open clarity, courage, and unfiltered truth The leap of faith that led me to The Nomad Escape and my recent countryside adventure in Japan. How burnout disconnects us from our mission—and how travel, community, and aligned action can reconnect us The 4 markers of a thriving life—and how to access more joy, abundance, and fulfillment by living in alignment (Take my free Flowstate Assessment to assess your alignment to thrive!) 3 reflective prompts to help you take your next leap toward your unique potential Key Moments: [04:01] – How “morning pages” broke through resistance and unlocked uncensored self-expression [06:00] – The fear of facing possibility—and why we avoid the void [13:07] – Guest house adventures, dinner parties with strangers, and finding connection in the countryside [17:29] – Rediscovering an old conviction: global citizenship and a return to purpose [21:04] – Why your background, beliefs, and lived experience uniquely position you to contribute to the world [23:40] – When alignment meets action: how thriving flows from purpose [29:46] – 3 journaling prompts to take a leap toward your true self About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship Club Phoenix, Valerie helps high-achieving creatives break free from burnout and realign with their truth—without sacrificing their health, joy, or purpose. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares intimate conversations that awaken transformation, rebuild self-trust, and celebrate the art of rising to meet the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Join the Conversation Got insights, feedback, or an aha moment from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on SpeakPipe or email me at [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list 💖 Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with a fellow visionary. Your support helps ignite more stories of hope, healing, and becoming. Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode speaks to your soul and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, start healing, and fully embody your next level—you belong in Club Phoenix. 📅 Book a 30-minute Vibrant Vision Quest 🔥 Explore upcoming programs & intensives Big thank you to Madeleine Reede, our new podcast producer. Welcome onboard!

In this powerful season finale of From the Ashes, I’m joined by Sambo Sak—a Cambodian American community leader, poet, and educator based in Long Beach, CA. Sambo uses storytelling and creative expression as a path to healing, identity, and collective liberation. Together, we explore how creativity becomes a lifeline in times of darkness, how generational trauma can quietly shape our beliefs about ourselves, and how reclaiming your story is one of the most radical acts of healing you can take. ⚠️ Content note: This episode includes candid conversation around suicidal ideation. Please listen with care. Whether you’re navigating your own healing journey, searching for your voice, or trying to make peace with your past, this episode will speak to your soul. 🔥 What You'll Take Away: The power of storytelling as a tool for mental health and identity How cultural silence and intergenerational trauma impact self-worth Why healing doesn’t mean erasing pain—but transforming it into purpose The importance of creative outlets for survival and self-expression Why community and dialogue are essential for breaking cycles About Our Guest: Sambo Sak is Cambodian American. He is a Cal State Long Beach University graduate with a Bachelors of the Arts in Communication Studies. He is a community leader in Long Beach, California. Sambo uses poetry and storytelling to empower people. He helps individuals express their feelings and thoughts in writing. In this way, he helps them create and share their own stories and ultimately find self-identity. Sambo believes stories are a powerful way to build dialogue to address the challenges people face in life. About the Show ✨ From the Ashes is proud to be part of the high-impact work of Intrepid Wellness, transformative coaching that helps visionary changemakers rise from burnout and step into their full creative power. This podcast is your free resource for epic-level personal growth—one story at a time. 📲 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more people find the stories that light the way. About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. 💬 Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave Valerie a voicemail on her SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop her a line at [email protected]. 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join my email list: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/signup

What if your healing journey isn’t about becoming someone new—but remembering who you’ve always been? In this week’s episode of From the Ashes, I sit down once again with meditation teacher, Ayurvedic practitioner, and dear friend Michael Green for a conversation that goes straight to the soul. We dive into the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and how it reveals not only the roots of imbalance, but also the power we have to return to ourselves—through awareness, radical presence, and compassionate choice. We explore what it really means to live from your Prakriti (your true nature) instead of your Vikruti (your current imbalance), and how so many of us mistakenly build our lives from a place of disconnection. Whether you're navigating burnout, chronic stress, or seeking clarity on your next step, this episode is a beautiful reminder: you are not broken—you’re just being invited to realign. 🔑 Expect powerful insights on: Why presence is the foundation of healing The 3 root causes of disease (and how to work with them) Reclaiming your agency in moments that feel powerless Key Moments: [03:45] – The difference between who we think we are vs. who we really are [10:08] – Prakriti and Vikruti explained through real-life examples [16:31] – The 3 root causes of disease in Ayurveda—and how they still apply today [25:12] – What radical presence actually looks like in everyday life [34:40] – Why we self-abandon, and the surprising path back [42:15] – Michael’s story of coming back to his own power after years of illness [50:56] – A reminder: healing isn’t about fixing, it’s about remembering About Our Guest: Since completing his first 10-day Vipassana retreat in India in 2007, Michael has studied and practiced different meditation techniques and traditions, including Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Dzogchen, and others. His personal practice is in the Vajrayana (Tibetan) Buddhist tradition.  Michael received his bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and is a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner from Southern California University of Health Sciences. He completed his meditation teacher training at UCLA's Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC), and is a certified mindfulness teacher through the International Mindfulness Teacher's Association (IMTA).  He spent 20 years between New York City and Los Angeles and is now based in Bali. Connect with Michael michaelgreenayurveda.com substack.com me/michaelgreenayurveda   About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode resonates with you and you’re ready to break through self-sabotage, redefine your path, and finally take action toward the life you know you’re meant to live, then it’s time for you to join us in Club Phoenix. 📅 Schedule a call with me → https://tidycal.com/intrepidwellness/evolveyou2024 Want to check out my upcoming workshops, detoxes, and resources for the community? 🔥 Explore my programs & resources: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/ignite Join the Conversation 💬 Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: life 📧 Join my email list: Sign up here Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps bring more raw, real, and transformative conversations to From the Ashes. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes where every story ignites hope and healing.

What does it really mean to live unapologetically as yourself? To embrace change, trust your intuition, and follow your creative instincts—even when it means burning everything down and starting over? In this episode, I sit down with Walden Cox, aka Walthrax, aka Black Metal Axe—a 12-time world record-holding trick shot champion in axe and knife throwing, a touring metal musician, and a multifaceted artist who has spent his entire life challenging the idea of what success "should" look like. From growing up off the grid on an island to traveling the world as a metal musician, to becoming a champion axe thrower, Walden has always leaned into the unknown and prioritized living authentically on his own terms.  🔥 In This Episode, We Explore: The power of embracing intuition, reinvention, and creative pivots How play, curiosity, and movement can be catalysts for healing Why chaos and uncertainty are essential to growth—and how to harness them If you’ve ever felt stuck in a life that no longer fits, or wondered how to transform your unique passions into something meaningful, this episode is for you. Key Moments: [01:15] – Walden’s wildchild beginnings: born to hippie parents, raised off the grid [04:05] – From discovering guitar to touring the world as a metal musician [09:38] – The art of reinvention—why pivoting is both scary and necessary [22:20] – Facing self-doubt: how to move forward despite fear and uncertainty [40:26] – How ax throwing became an unexpected form of therapy and self-expression [48:46] – The mission behind Throw Axe, Feel Good—bringing movement & mental health together [57:59] – What "recovery" really means and how Walden is redefining it through his work About Our Guest: Walden Cox (aka Walthrax, aka Black Metal Axe) is a force of nature—an artist, musician, and 12-time world record-holding Trickshot Champion in axe and knife throwing. You may have seen him on History Channel’s The Ultimate Marksman, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle. Walden moves through life with fearless creativity, seamlessly blending his passions into an unconventional and unapologetic path. From his wild child days to becoming an internationally touring metal musician, and now a champion axe thrower, Walden has mastered the art of trusting his intuition and following his creative impulses. Now, he’s channeling that energy into a mental health and wellness program incorporating axe throwing, proving that healing and self-discovery can take on many forms. Connect with Walden: 📲 Social Media: • Instagram, Youtube, TikTok, Bluesky, Lemon8: @blackmetalaxe • Facebook: @waldencox 🌐 Websites: • Official Website: www.blackmetalaxe.com (coming soon!) 🎸 Band Projects: • Ghost Like This: www.ghostlikethis.bandcamp.com • Wraith Scream: www.wraithscream.bandcamp.com • Walthrax: www.walthrax.bandcamp.com • Haetor: www.haetor.bandcamp.com • Gravitron: www.gravitron.bandcamp.com   Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode resonates with you and you’re ready to break through self-sabotage, redefine your path, and finally take action toward the life you know you’re meant to live, then it’s time for you to join us in Club Phoenix. 📅 Schedule a call with me → https://tidycal.com/intrepidwellness/evolveyou2024 Want to check out my upcoming workshops, detoxes, and resources for the community? 🔥 Explore my programs & resources: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/ignite About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation.   Join the Conversation 💬 Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: life 📧 Join my email list: Sign up here Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps bring more raw, real, and transformative conversations to From the Ashes. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes where every story ignites hope and healing.

What happens when the thing you love most starts to drain you? When passion turns into exhaustion? After 2.5 years of grinding in LA’s dance scene—teaching, performing, producing community shows, and chasing a career that no longer felt aligned—I made a radical decision. I sold everything I owned, packed my bags, and moved to New Zealand with no plans of coming back. In this episode, I share why I walked away from dance, what I learned about passion, identity, and survival, and how taking a literal leap of faith into the unknown led me to unexpected healing. From training at a parkour gym in exchange for work hours to working in a printing factory just to make rent, I learned how to exist outside of my craft, how to detach my worth from my career, and how to rebuild my love for movement from a place of joy—not survival. If you’ve ever felt like you were burning out in pursuit of something you once loved, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🔥 Why I chose to leave dance behind—even though I still loved it 🔥 How stepping into the unknown helped me rediscover my love for movement 🔥 The power of taking a leap of faith (literally and figuratively) Want to Go Deeper? Join Club Phoenix If this episode resonates with you and you’re ready to break through self-sabotage, redefine your path, and finally take action toward the life you know you’re meant to live, I’m reopening Club Phoenix on May 1st. I’m only accepting 7 new members this round—if you’re curious, book a call to see if it’s the right fit for you: 📅 Schedule a call → https://tidycal.com/intrepidwellness/evolveyou2024 Want to check out my upcoming workshops, detoxes, and resources for the community? 🔥 Explore my programs & resources: https://www.intrepidwellness.life/ignite About the Host Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation 💬 Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: life 📧 Join my email list: Sign up here Loving the Show? If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps bring more raw, real, and transformative conversations to From the Ashes. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes where every story ignites hope and healing.

This week on From the Ashes, I sit down with the incredibly thoughtful and creative Katherine Roesler, a sober artist and creative from Toronto who believes that art, play, and creation are essential to healing and transformation. Katherine’s own journey through substance abuse and identity exploration has shaped her values and convictions around her art and personal mission today. Together, we explore what it means to claim the title of "artist" in a world that often undermines creativity, the struggles of overcoming internalized self-doubt, and how community plays a vital role in healing. What I love about today's episode is that it is a conversation where we both bump up against the unknown, against our personal, limiting beliefs, and rather than avoid the discomfort, we use our discourse to explore some of the core issues facing our generation in a world set up to keep us lonely, jaded, and distracted. Key Moments: 🔥 (02:03) Katherine shares her earliest memories of creative freedom and how childhood play shaped her artistry. 🔥 (05:23) The breaking point: Katherine’s journey to sobriety and how reclaiming art helped her heal. 🔥 (07:41) Overcoming the fear of calling oneself an artist—and why external validation isn't the measure of success. 🔥 (17:14) The tension between artistic technique and true creative freedom—how to find balance. 🔥 (24:29) Why community is essential for healing, and how modern society often isolates us. 🔥 (41:36) The commodification of community—has the word “community” lost its true meaning? 🔥 (57:46) Managing creative energy and avoiding burnout: why intentional rest is an act of resistance. About Our Guest Katherine is an artist, creative and sober. She is a firm believer that we are all artists—that play is essential and that creation in any form is valuable, transformative, and healing. She grew up immersed in competitive dance and sports before studying sociology and studio art at university. After graduating, she spent four years travelling before returning to school just before the pandemic to study marketing management, recognizing that being an artist also means running a business. Since late 2022, she has been healing from long COVID—another nudge from the universe to slow down and reflect. This journey has deepened her understanding of the beliefs that have shaped her path, and she sees it as a blessing for redirection, transformation, and even deeper healing.  Connect with Katherine Website: https://www.katherineroesler.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherine.roesler About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: More opportunities to connect are coming soon! In the meantime, please take a few minutes to let us know who you are and what you’ve gotten from tuning in to the podcast by leaving me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or dropping me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Me: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing.

This week, I’m diving into a powerful realization—one that shifted how I see myself, my work, and the way we show up in the world. We all have an immense power to lead from authenticity and creativity, but so many of us get stuck chasing validation—whether it’s praise, money, or recognition. Lately, I’ve been immersing myself in philosophy, and one book that deeply resonated with me is The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga. In this episode, I read a short excerpt from the chapter “Deny the Desire for Recognition” and share my reflections on how seeking approval can limit our freedom and prevent us from fully stepping into our potential. 📖 The Courage to be Disliked on Good Reads 🔍 About the book: The Courage to Be Disliked is written as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, exploring ideas from Adlerian psychology that challenge conventional beliefs about happiness, relationships, and self-worth. ⚠️ Disclaimer: The excerpt read in this episode is used solely for the purpose of commentary and discussion under fair use. If you find these ideas compelling, I highly encourage you to check out the full book! Let’s talk about it. Have you ever found yourself stuck in the need for recognition? What would it mean for you to let go of that desire? 🎧 Listen now and let’s explore together. About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Me: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing.

Rise. Renew. Reconnect. Welcome back to From the Ashes! This week, I’m absolutely stoked to introduce you to my friend Kyle Hebner—drummer of the metal band Mourn the Light and an all-around delightfully honest human being. Just like Dylan Gowan from a few episodes back, Kyle and I met during our heavy metal travels through Japan last December, and I knew immediately that he’d be an incredible guest for this show. We dive deep into the ethos of metal—why it resonates with outcasts, the unspoken rules of mosh pits, and how the genre serves as a space for emotional catharsis. We explore the parallels between heavy metal and religious communities (yes, really), the raw power of music to process grief and loss, and even the cultural aesthetics that have shaped the genre over time. If you love deep dives and spicy takes, this is an episode for you. And don’t miss the end—Kyle adds some extra reflections that, if you’re paying attention, will definitely keep you on your toes. Key Moments (00:03) Meeting Kyle on a Heavy Metal Tour in Japan Valerie and Kyle talk about how they met during the Lords of the Trident and Seven Spires tour in Japan, and what it was like traveling with a group of metalheads. (02:04) Heavy Metal as a Community and a Religion? Kyle draws parallels between metal culture and religious communities—rituals, congregation, and the deep sense of belonging. (09:33) The Roots of Anti-Authority Themes in Metal A discussion on metal’s history of rebellion, its punk influences, and why anti-authority messages are deeply embedded in the genre. (13:27) The Goth Aesthetic & the Unexpected Gay Influence in Metal The surprising role of Rob Halford (Judas Priest) in shaping metal’s leather-and-studs look and how underground subcultures influenced metal fashion. (41:27) Moshing: Chaos, Camaraderie, and the Unwritten Rules A breakdown of moshing culture, safety rules, and the Wall of Death phenomenon in thrash metal shows. (56:03) Processing Loss Through Metal Music How heavy metal helps people navigate grief, featuring stories from Mourn the Light and other bands that channel personal loss into music. (1:01:39) Kyle’s Reflection on Metal’s Anti-Religious Sentiment Kyle’s post-interview voice note explaining the real roots of metal’s anti-religion stance—not just rebellion, but a response to hypocrisy and societal contradictions. (1:01:18) Final Thoughts & Metal Recommendations Kyle shares his personal favorite metal albums and invites listeners to explore the depth of the genre. About Our Guest Kyle Hebner was born and raised in Northern Michigan. Now residing in Southeastern Connecticut, he is the drummer for Heavy Metal band Mourn the Light and has been a card-carrying member of the heavy metal community since, approximately, 1999. In addition to Mourn the Light, Kyle has played in a few other bands throughout his life, mainly Ouch! Me Arse, an experimental punk band during his high school years, Ice Giant, a melodic death metal band from Boston MA, and Age of Embers, a Power Metal Band from New Haven, CT. As being in a metal band, currently, is not exactly paying the bills, Kyle has found gainful full-time employment as an Electrical Engineer where he spends a lot of time in a lab fixing things that other people have broken. This may sound like a flex, but it really doesn't feel like it, on the day-to-day. In what spare time he has, Kyle likes to travel the world, attend Heavy Metal festivals, but also enjoys sitting on his couch playing video games with his cat Bruce Kittenson on his lap. Links Mourn the Light on Bandcamp: https://mournthelight.bandcamp.com/ Mourn the Light on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSqHFsg6kfQCGOJhtTqVmw The intro to this episode features the song "False Prophecies" by Mourn the Light.  About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Me: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing. Thanks for listening!  

In this episode, I’m talking with Erin Resch, a conservation manager and sustainability advocate whose initiatives started with powerful personal journey. Erin’s story begins with her struggle with infertility—a challenge that led her to completely rethink her diet, environment, and lifestyle. By cutting out toxins, processed foods, and microplastics, she didn’t just improve her physical health but found a deeper connection to sustainable, intentional living. In our conversation, we dig into the environmental impact of the food industry, her experiences working in conservation, and how small changes, like swapping out plastic water bottles or joining community initiatives, can create lasting change. Erin’s journey shows us that when you take control of your health and habits, you can change your life—and the world around you. Key Moments [02:03] Erin’s “From the Ashes” Story: How struggling with infertility led to a lifestyle transformation. [05:03] The Role of Inflammation: Recognizing inflammation and its link to toxins and diet. [08:01] Inside the Dairy and Meat Industries: Erin’s experience witnessing the impact of industrial agriculture firsthand. [13:21] Simple Steps for Lasting Change: How small, incremental shifts—like Meatless Mondays—can lead to impactful outcomes. [22:42] Understanding Microplastics: The hidden threat of microplastics in our food and water systems and their link to disease. [36:26] The Blue Zones Movement: How community-driven health initiatives are creating healthier, happier lifestyles. [41:48] Life After Transformation: Erin’s success story of becoming a mom and how her journey shaped her future. About Our Guest Erin Resch is deeply passionate about driving innovation in the food industry while empowering others to embrace healthier, more sustainable choices. With over 15 years of experience spanning dairy, plant-based foods, and water conservation, her journey reflects a commitment to advancing well-being through purpose-driven strategies and mindful decision-making. Her career began with leading roles at Dannon and Challenge Dairy, where she developed a strong foundation in agricultural business development. A pivotal moment came when she recognized the environmental impact of animal agriculture, inspiring a focus on sustainability and conservation. This shift led to a role as Conservation Manager at California Water Service, developing expertise in water-saving initiatives. Today, she channels this passion into the sustainability movement, driving growth, market innovation, and environmental stewardship. Whether collaborating with teams or creating strategies that resonate with diverse audiences, she's dedicated to making a meaningful difference in promoting healthier lifestyles and preserving resources for future generations. Connect with Erin Instagram: instagram.com/everyday.eco.erin YouTube: youtube.com/@EcoErin Pinterest: pinterest.com/everyday.eco.erin TikTok: tiktok.com/@eco.erin Website: EcoErin.com   About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Me: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing.

This week on From the Ashes, I sit down with Rich Santana, founder of Debt Behind Me, Wealth Before Me, to discuss his personal transformation and how it led him to a life of leadership, service, and faith. Rich opens up about his early life growing up in a broken home, where sports became his identity and party culture led him down a path of self-destruction. After hitting rock bottom and finding himself in prison, Rich experienced a major shift when three fellow inmates invited him to pray with them in the prison yard. Although he was raised Catholic, Rich had never read the Bible until then. His decision to surrender to faith set him on a path to leadership and transformation, ultimately leading him to become a marriage counselor and ministry leader. Rich shares how shifting his mindset and surrounding himself with a supportive community helped him redefine success and purpose. We discuss key topics like forgiveness, self-awareness, and the importance of working together in relationships to overcome obstacles. Key Moments [03:01] Growing up in a broken home: Rich reflects on his early life and how family dynamics shaped his path. [07:48] The emptiness of success: How sports and the party lifestyle left Rich feeling unfulfilled and lost. [10:31] The turning point: Rich’s experience in prison and how three inmates inviting him to pray changed his life. [19:09] Practical tools for change: Rich describes the rehab program that taught him how to reframe negative thoughts and step into leadership roles. [22:54] Leading with compassion: How Rich’s spiritual transformation allowed him to see others through a different lens and embrace service. [29:12] Lessons from marriage: Rich explains the key principles he and his wife use to help couples overcome conflict and thrive. [50:04] Financial and emotional freedom: The foundation of Rich’s ministry and its mission to help couples manage debt, improve communication, and heal together. About Our Guest Rich Santana is a faith-driven leader and the founder of Debt Behind Me, Wealth Before Me, a ministry dedicated to helping others find redemption, financial freedom, and purpose. Growing up in Brawley, California, in a broken home, Rich struggled to find his footing, immersing himself in sports and later getting caught up in the party lifestyle. After years of personal challenges and misdirection, he experienced a powerful mindset and faith shift, surrendering to a higher power and rediscovering the strength to rebuild his life. Today, Rich is a full-time minister and marriage counselor, working alongside his wife to guide couples through healing and growth. His story of transformation serves as a testament to the possibility of redeeming lost time, the importance of hard work, and the peace that comes with faith. Connect with Rich Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debtbehindme Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichSantana.org777   About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Valerie: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing.

When I met Joseph San Nicolas a few weeks ago, I was immediately struck by the depth of his presence. Joseph has a remarkable story of self-discovery—one that invites us to reflect deeply on the narratives we create about ourselves and the courage it takes to rewrite them. From his humble beginnings in Guam, Joseph overcame great odds, navigating a difficult childhood and a pervasive sense of purposelessness. Through perseverance, he managed to retire in his 30s and now lives in Southern California with his beautiful family. But what truly stands out about Joseph is his from the ashes story. Emerging from a lifelong struggle with self-hatred, Joseph had to unlearn everything he thought he knew, including his faith, in order to rebuild a life defined by freedom, choice, and self-love. In this episode, he shares his raw and honest journey of healing, how he redefined his identity, and why he believes in the power of showing up—even when you're not fully prepared. Content Advisory: This episode dives into heavy topics like suicide ideation and self-harm and is an honest, explicit, and raw exploration of what it means to rebuild your life from the ground up. Key Moments: [01:03] Joseph explains how his life mission shifted to creating experiences defined by choice rather than expectations. [03:44] Reflecting on childhood and religion, Joseph shares how his deep devotion to God helped him cope but left him feeling empty. [07:48] Letting go of God: Joseph’s decision to step away from religion and the profound transformation it sparked. [15:28] A raw discussion about depression, suicidal ideation, and the inner work required to heal. [27:40] Shifting from self-hatred to self-love: how Joseph redefined his identity and began embracing his worth. [44:57] The power of auditing your life: why Joseph believes in regularly reflecting on your choices, beliefs, and habits. [53:36] Creating your own experience: Joseph’s advice for stepping out of limiting environments and reclaiming your potential. About Our Guest: Born and raised on the island of Guam, Joseph San Nicolas spent much of his early life grappling with feelings of purposelessness and self-hatred. He devoted himself to religion, believing it would ease the darkness within, but eventually found himself at a powerful crossroads: questioning everything he thought he knew, including his faith. Today, Joseph resides in Southern California with his wife and kids. He lives by a simple yet powerful philosophy: life is about the experiences you choose to create. He believes in showing up, ready to take on what comes, and shaping a life defined by freedom and intention. Links: Follow Joseph on Instagram: @joe_sn_ Wayne Dyer Alan Watts About the Host: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach, personal growth mentor, and board-certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding individuals through life’s challenges, empowering them to emerge stronger, more resilient, and purpose-driven. Through From the Ashes, Valerie shares dynamic conversations that ignite hope, healing, and transformation. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval, or drop me a line at [email protected]. Connect with Me: 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Sign up for my email list: Join Here Loving the Show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing.

Last month, I had a unique opportunity to do something different: serve as an assistant tour guide for two heavy metal bands and their fan club! For two weeks, I helped guide the Lords of the Trident and Seven Spires on an adventure through Japan. As someone who knew very little about metal going into this experience, I was surprised and delighted by what I discovered—not just by the music but by the community and the moments of connection I witnessed along the way. Joining me to share his perspective is Dylan Gowan, drummer for Seven Spires, who reflects on the magic of playing in Japan, the camaraderie of the metal scene, and the emotional power of music to bring people together. Whether you’re a metalhead, a lover of travel, or someone intrigued by the way art shapes and heals us, this episode has something for you. We also talk about how metal, much like classical music, tells deeply emotional stories, and Dylan shares his journey from fan to professional musician, plus the lessons he’s learned about self-compassion and persistence. This episode is a little different from our usual wellness topics, but it’s full of insight and inspiration. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! About Our Guest: Dylan Gowan is a Canadian musician and drummer for the band Seven Spires. When not touring, he works as a session musician and teacher, blending his passion for music with a commitment to supporting others in their creative journeys. Dylan is currently preparing for an exciting year ahead, with Seven Spires gearing up for their next run of shows and several session projects in the works for 2025. Key Moments: [00:08] Introducing the Japan tour: Valerie shares her initial impressions of metal music and what it was like to guide two bands and their fans through Japan. [03:11] Favorite moments in Japan: Dylan reflects on the surreal experience of playing alongside a band he admired as a teen. [05:38] The community within metal: Valerie observes a heartfelt moment between fans during a show, showcasing the tight-knit connections in the metal scene. [10:55] Metal and emotions: Dylan discusses the emotional depth of metal music, from anger to celebration, and its unique ability to connect people. [18:38] From fan to musician: Dylan shares his journey into metal music, inspired by late-night TV programs and a deep love for progressive rock. [34:08] Health on tour: Dylan explains how maintaining health and mindfulness is crucial for musicians, especially during demanding tours. [39:06] The importance of self-compassion: Dylan and Valerie discuss the challenges of separating self-worth from creative work and how artists can be kinder to themselves. Links: Seven Spires Official Website Seven Spires on YouTube   About Valerie: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach and personal growth mentor with a passion for empowering individuals to boldly transform their lives. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding people through life’s challenges to emerge healthier, more resilient, and purpose-driven. With a foundation as a certified Ayurvedic practitioner and over a decade of combined experience in holistic health, education, and personal growth coaching, Valerie blends ancient wisdom with modern approaches to deliver transformative insights. Her podcast, From the Ashes, features dynamic discussions of personal growth, discovery, and human resilience. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval. Are You Ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of From the Ashes. My goal is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, let’s chat. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Connect with Me 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join our E-mail List Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing. You can also reach me at [email protected].

Welcome back to From the Ashes! In today’s short and sweet solocast, I reflect on the impact of shame and self-esteem on how we show up in the world. I share my personal journey of navigating these challenges and the life-changing lessons I’ve learned about reclaiming your worth. This episode concludes with a recording of my recent speech, “Choose Yourself Before You Lose Yourself,” where I discuss the importance of stepping into your power and embracing your true potential. About Valerie: Valerie Hwang Beck is a holistic wellness coach and personal growth mentor with a passion for empowering individuals to boldly transform their lives. As the founder of Intrepid Wellness and creator of the year-long mentorship program Club Phoenix, Valerie specializes in guiding people through life’s challenges to emerge healthier, more resilient, and purpose-driven. With a foundation as a certified Ayurvedic practitioner and over a decade of combined experience in holistic health, education, and personal growth coaching, Valerie blends ancient wisdom with modern approaches to deliver transformative insights. Her podcast, From the Ashes, features dynamic discussions of personal growth, discovery, and human resilience. Join the Conversation: Have a question, feedback, or insight from today’s episode? I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a voicemail on my SpeakPipe page: https://www.speakpipe.com/intrepidval. Are You Ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of From the Ashes. My goal is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, let’s chat. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Connect with Me 📸 Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val 🎥 YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 💻 Website: www.intrepidwellness.life 📧 Join our E-mail List Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of From the Ashes, where every story ignites hope and healing. You can also reach me at [email protected].

Happy New Year, and welcome back to From the Ashes! We’re kicking off 2025 with a conversation with my friend, Lynn Beck. Lynn and I met in Cate Stillman’s growth group where she has been a mentor, coach, and my personal senpai—someone I look to for inspiration and strategy. Lynn’s journey from climbing the corporate ladder to rediscovering herself through wellness, introspection, and connection is one I think many of us can relate to. We talk about personal growth, the power of strategy, and what it means to live with more ease. Along the way, we explore the concept of fractals—those patterns in life that keep repeating—and how they can serve as a guide for transformation. You’ll see throughout the episode that the way that Lynn has applied the principles of personal growth to her own life is not only practical, but highly relatable to all of us out there who simply want to live better. About Our Guest: Lynn Beck is deeply passionate about quality and consistency, constantly seeking opportunities for growth—whether for herself, her family, or as part of a team. She has had the privilege of working across the globe in places like Japan and the US, where she gained invaluable experiences that enriched both her professional and personal life. A key part of Lynn's current work involves managing an internal audit program and leading audit teams to ensure continuous improvement. Outside of her professional life, Lynn enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her husband and son. She is also passionate about projects that blend practicality with creativity, especially those with an intriguing history. She finds it deeply fulfilling to uncover new ways to connect the past with the present. Key Moments: [01:26] – What ignited Lynn’s personal growth journey and how the pandemic became a turning point. [04:18] – The concept of fractals: how life’s recurring patterns guide growth and decision-making. [07:01] – Struggles with self-esteem and the shadow side of growth. [16:30] – Shifting from a reactive mindset to observing life as a movie—Lynn’s insights on presence. [21:54] – Why transformation starts with wellness and how physical health supports clarity of mind. [27:33] – The 80/20 principle: letting go of baggage to focus on what truly matters. [49:10] – Strategy as the philosophy of becoming and how it shapes the life we want to create. Resources Mentioned 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy This Is Strategy by Seth Godin Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing. If you have any questions or thoughts about the episode, I would love for you to send them to me at [email protected].

In this week’s episode of From the Ashes, I am joined by Dr. LouAnne Boyd—Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Chapman University and a pioneer in designing technologies that support and celebrate neurodiverse populations. LouAnne’s work is driven from the heart. From her beginnings as a therapist working with neurodivergent individuals to stepping boldly into the world of computer science, she shares how a pivotal moment—her “flaming out” and starting over—led her to merge technology and compassion for transformative solutions. We discuss the ways neurodivergent individuals experience the world differently, why societal expectations need to change, and how technology can be leveraged to create connection instead of perpetuating isolation. LouAnne also opens up about the emotional roots of her work, including her personal experiences that shaped her deep compassion for others. If you’ve ever wanted to better understand neurodiversity, support those who are wired differently, or reflect on how acceptance of others can expand your own self-compassion, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired. Key Moments: [02:08] LouAnne’s Path from Therapy to Technology – How a life-changing fire and a decade-long career as an autism therapist led LouAnne to pursue a PhD in computer science. [07:02] Finding Compassion in the Gap – LouAnne shares heartbreaking moments witnessing the exclusion of neurodivergent kids and how it fueled her passion for change. [10:32] The Staggering Reality of Autism and Suicide Rates – Why misunderstanding autism contributes to devastating statistics and why awareness alone isn’t enough. [19:11] Checking Our Ego: How We Can All Help – LouAnne explains how our own discomfort and expectations can amplify neurodivergent struggles—and what we can do to shift. [29:34] Beyond Awareness: Celebrating Neurodiversity – LouAnne discusses her work to challenge the stigma and create true inclusion, starting with systemic change. [45:07] The Disco Ball Concept: A Tech Revolution – Discover LouAnne’s app, designed to highlight human strengths and create connection by celebrating diversity. [50:38] Reframing Society’s Role – Why it’s time for the world to come 80% of the way to meet neurodivergent individuals, rather than the other way around. About Our Guest: Dr. LouAnne Boyd is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Chapman University. Her groundbreaking research focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of technologies that support neurodiverse populations. She is passionate about leveraging technology to increase accessibility and social connection for people with autism, ADHD, social anxiety, and dyslexia. Her work extends beyond awareness to celebrating neurodiversity as a valuable part of the human experience. Connect with LouAnne: LinkedIn: Dr. LouAnne Boyd Recommended Reading: NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing. If you have any questions or thoughts about the episode, I would love for you to send them to me at [email protected].

In this week’s episode of From the Ashes, I am joined by Ellie Yang Camp—artist, educator, and author of Louder Than the Lies: Asian American Identity, Solidarity, and Self-Love. As a daughter of Asian immigrants myself, Ellie’s story struck a deep chord with me. Together, we dive into the challenges of navigating racial identity, unpacking white supremacy, and learning what it really means to embrace self-love as Asian Americans. Ellie shares her journey of discovering her voice and claiming her space in a system that often tries to box us in. I also reflect on my own experiences—how I’ve grappled with my Asian American identity, where I’ve felt “othered,” and what it means to embrace our full, nuanced selves. This conversation isn’t just about race—it’s about finding compassion for ourselves, for others, and for the struggles that shape us. If you’ve ever felt stuck between cultures, struggled to reconcile societal expectations, or questioned your worth, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed. Key Moments: [03:10] Ellie’s Origins – Ellie shares how an early comment about her race shaped her career aspirations and sparked her journey of self-awareness. [06:40] The Role of White Supremacy in Shaping Identity – Ellie explains how systems of power influence how we see ourselves, our worth, and our roles. [16:00] A Turning Point: Confronting Internalized Beliefs – Ellie recounts the moment she realized her own biases and how it led her to embrace self-love. [27:05] Forced Solidarity and the Complexity of “Asian American” – We discuss how external systems box Asian Americans into a singular identity and why solidarity is still necessary. [32:37] Self-Love and Compassion: A Key to Healing – Ellie highlights the importance of self-compassion in unlearning harmful beliefs and showing up authentically. [47:19] Supporting Each Other in Our Journeys – Ellie and I discuss why community support and uplifting diverse voices are essential for collective growth. [56:57] Teaching Kids Without Moralizing – Ellie shares her approach to discussing politics and values with children—focusing on context rather than judgment. About Our Guest: Ellie Yang Camp is an artist and Asian American community educator from the San Francisco Bay Area. The proud daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, she has been a high-school history teacher, a full-time parent, a calligrapher, an anti-racist educator, and now an author. She has a bachelor's degree in Political Science from UC Berkeley and a master's degree in Education with an emphasis in Teaching of Social Studies from Stanford. Her first book, Louder Than the Lies: Asian American Identity, Solidarity, and Self-Love which unpacks the racial experiences of Asian Americans under the system of white supremacy was published in October 2024 with Heyday Books. Resources & Links: Ellie's Book: Louder Than the Lies: Asian American Identity, Solidarity, and Self-Love Ellie’s Website: www.ellieyangcamp.com Ellie’s Newsletter: Subscribe here Follow Ellie on Instagram: @eeewhysee More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing. If you have any questions or thoughts about the episode, I would love for you to send them to me at [email protected].

Welcome back to From the Ashes! This week, I’m joined by writer, meditation teacher, and yoga practitioner, Linda Saslow. Linda’s journey of resilience, self-discovery, and sobriety is a remarkable testament to the human spirit’s capacity to rise stronger from life’s challenges. In this episode, Linda shares the personal experiences and transformative events that shaped her book See You Zen, a fictionalized account inspired by her sober journey and spiritual awakening. We dive deep into her decision to embrace sobriety, the profound impact of meditation and community, and how these practices helped her navigate loss and grief. Linda also introduces us to her original "Lotus Meditation," a guided practice symbolizing spiritual growth and emergence from life’s murky waters into clarity and light. Whether you're seeking inspiration, tools for personal growth, or simply a heartfelt story of transformation, I hope you enjoy our conversation with Linda Saslow! About Our Guest Linda Saslow (née Roberts) is a native of Southern California, a writer, yoga practitioner, and meditation teacher. She holds a BA in World Arts and Cultures from UCLA and a Master of Professional Writing from USC. Linda’s journey to sobriety has shaped her life and inspired her book, See You Zen, a fictionalized reflection of her path to self-actualization. Passionate about healthy living, spirituality, and creativity, she resides in Long Beach, California, where she continues to write and teach. You can purchase her book See You Zen here. Key Moments [01:16] – Linda introduces her journey to sobriety and the life events that inspired See You Zen. [06:48] – Choosing sobriety: Linda reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to AA and her first sponsor. [14:06] – Meditation as a foundation for healing: How mindfulness has shaped Linda’s life and work. [27:10] – The power of community and support in sobriety and grief. [36:11] – Linda leads the "Lotus Meditation," a practice for emerging from life’s challenges into clarity and light. [43:54] – Current projects: Linda shares about her upcoming writings, including Near Nirvana and her humorous take on dating as a widow.   More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing. If you have any questions or thoughts about the episode, I would love for you to send them to me at [email protected].

Welcome back to From the Ashes! This week, I’m joined by personal trainer, meditation practitioner, and personal development guide, Benjamin Moore—better known as BMOOR. BMOOR’s transformative journey from addiction and self-destruction to self-awareness and empowerment is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In this episode, Benjamin shares his profound "Harajuku moment," the turning point that led him to embrace sobriety, move to California, and embark on a path of holistic healing and personal growth. We discuss how fasting, meditation, and intentional living have shaped his life and how they can help us reconnect with our own power. BMOOR also walks us through a simple yet transformative breathing exercise and dives into the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and breaking free from limiting beliefs. Whether you’re looking to deepen your connection with yourself or take the first step toward positive change, this conversation will leave you inspired and motivated. About Our Guest BMOOR is a health and wellness entrepreneur, transformation engineer, and personal development guide based in Long Beach, CA. Having overcome profound challenges such as addiction, depression, anxiety, and physical health struggles, he has transmuted his life lessons into tools for growth and empowerment. Through practices in fitness, nutrition, fasting, hydration, and meditation, BMOOR creates welcoming, safe spaces for individuals to confront self-limiting beliefs, deepen their connection with themselves, and unlock their true potential. With a holistic approach to well-being, he inspires others to rise stronger and live intentionally. You can find him on Instagram at @bmooralive and on his website, bmoorlife.com. Key Moments [02:34] – BMOOR shares his Harajuku moment: the turning point that led him to sobriety and California. [06:26] – Life before transformation: struggles with addiction, loss, and limiting beliefs. [13:12] – How meditation became the catalyst for BMOOR’s personal growth. [28:18] – Shifting to an abundance mindset and practicing intentional visualization. [43:13] – Fasting as a tool for healing the body, mind, and spirit. [55:51] – A powerful guided breathing exercise to foster mindfulness and presence. More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Loving the show? Please leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing. If you have any questions or thoughts about the episode, I would love for you to send them to me at [email protected].