Pockets of Knowledge

What would it feel like to finally hand off the tasks that are keeping you buried—and actually trust that they'll get done right? In this warm, energizing conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Renee Hastings—President and CEO of Executive Help Now and host of Renee Speaks—a woman whose mission is to help entrepreneurs, executives, and content creators reclaim their time so they can get back to the work only they can do.Renee's story is one of purpose built over time. From organizing a library at 12 years old to supporting executives in corporate America for two decades, every experience was quietly preparing her to build something of her own. She launched Executive Help Now as a side hustle, grew it entirely through word of mouth, and by 2022 had walked away from her day job to go all in—proof that when you operate with excellence and stay true to your gifts, the right opportunities find you.The heart of the conversation is delegation—why so many business owners resist it, what it actually costs them to hold on, and how to let go without losing your standards. Renee shares the mindset shift that changed everything for her: knowing the value of your time means recognizing what you simply should not be doing. She walks through how to set levels of authority, how to communicate expectations clearly so you're not re-explaining the same thing twice, and why letting someone else operate in their gifts is one of the most generous and strategic things you can do as a leader.If your business is growing but your bandwidth isn't, Renee is the person you need in your corner. She brings practical wisdom, genuine warmth, and a framework for delegation that makes letting go feel less like a risk and more like the smartest move you'll make all year.Bio:Renee Hastings is President and CEO of Executive Help Now, a virtual assistance service agency of highly skilled Account Executives, Business Operations Managers, Project Managers, and Sr. Executive Assistants that support busy executives, content creators, founders, funders, and entrepreneurs with back office management, social media engagement, podcast production, and business consulting services. Her entrepreneurial journey began in 1996, and since then, she has built a mission-driven business focused on helping others reclaim their time and operate in their zone of genius. With over 15 years of experience and a background in Business Management, she brings a unique blend of leadership, real-world insight, and a heart for service. She has been a Dale Carnegie Leadership Training coach, appeared on NBC's KCRA News to speak on business and virtual assistance during the pandemic, and continues to mentor women through faith-based small groups. As a podcast guest, Renee brings energy, authenticity, and practical strategies that resonate with audiences—from high-level executives, founders, and funders to emerging entrepreneurs. Whether the topic is time freedom, delegation, leadership, or building a business with purpose, she is here to inspire and equip listeners with tools they can use immediately.Connect with Renee:Website | Podcast Production | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube Resources:What Can a VA Do For You?Podcasts mentioned:Renee Speaks Podcast━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend. The more we educate, inspire, and empower each other, the further this conversation goes.Questions or just want to say hi? Find me at PocketsofKnowledge.com or on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Guests may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services mentioned. Nothing here is medical advice—I'm not a doctor. Please consult a qualified health professional for any medical concerns.

Most of us spend years trying to change our lives from the outside without ever realizing the program running the show is buried somewhere we've never thought to look. In this rich, eye-opening conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Melissa Deally and Billie Aadmi, co-founders of Amplify Impact Academy, who combine backgrounds in corporate leadership and law enforcement with two decades of mind-body expertise to help people break free from the unconscious programming running their lives—often without their awareness.Melissa and Billie explain why talk therapy alone often doesn't create lasting change: because the programs driving our behavior aren't stored in the conscious mind, they're in the unconscious—and that's exactly where their work begins. Think of your unconscious mind as a computer that's been running the same software since you were seven years old. Some of those programs no longer serve you, and you can't update them by just thinking differently. Using NLP, timeline therapy, and hypnotherapy, they help clients release the root cause of limiting beliefs and unresolved emotions—not just trim the weed at the surface, but pull the whole thing out. The result, as their students describe it, is feeling lighter, calmer, and quieter inside almost immediately.They also introduce their signature Clear the Screen technique—a simple, surprisingly fast tool for dissolving situational anxiety by shifting focus from what could go wrong to what you actually want. And they offer a reframe that many listeners may need to hear: your triggers aren't something to suppress or be ashamed of—they're messages from your unconscious mind that you're ready to heal something. The goal isn't to eliminate all emotion, it's to get yourself back to what they call Solution City, faster and faster each time.Whether you've felt stuck in the same patterns for years or want practical tools for managing anxiety and showing up more fully in your life, this conversation opens a door that most people don't even know exists—and makes it remarkably easy to walk through.Bio:Billie & Melissa help those stuck in toxic patterns and unable to achieve their goals Clear the Screen of anxiety, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs so they can show up fully in life's most important moments and create lasting impact.Amplify Impact Academy empowers its clients with a proven methodology to eliminate situational anxiety and step into greater self-worth, leadership, and impact… in their families, careers, and communities. By utilizing Clear the Screen, individuals experiencing anxiety, guilt, fear, shame, hopelessness, and low self-worth can get out of their own way and move from Victim Island to Solution City. By building a community of Screen Clearers, Melissa and Billie empower their audience to find their tribe and amplify their impact globally.Connect with Billie & Melissa:Email: [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedInParticipate in the next book: Email [email protected] with "I'm interested in the book" in the subject line.Books mentioned:Empowered: The Journey From Victim Island To Solution City My Daily Meds by Melody Petersen Radical Remission by Dr. Kelly Turner – Bookshop | AmazonDolores Cannon booksPodcasts mentioned:Clear the Screen with Billie Aadmi and Melissa Deally | The Great UnlearnYouTube mention:Thrive━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend. The more we educate, inspire, and empower each other, the further this conversation goes.Questions? Find me at PocketsofKnowledge.com or on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Guests may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services mentioned. Nothing here is medical advice—I'm not a doctor. Please consult a qualified health professional for any medical concerns.

If AI has you feeling anxious, confused, or left behind, this conversation is exactly what you need to hear. Host Desiree Stanley sits down with Stephanie Sylvestre—CEO and co-founder of AvatarBuddy.ai and a barrier-breaking leader in technology and social impact—who has spent over a decade building AI solutions that amplify human potential rather than replace it. Stephanie's take is both practical and refreshingly hopeful: AI is a powerful tool, but the most powerful force in the room is still you.Stephanie demystifies the tech landscape with clarity and zero condescension—explaining what large language models, AI agents, and agentic AI actually mean, and why she compares unsupervised AI to handing a 15-year-old the keys to your bank account, your email, and your most important client. She also tackles the elephant in the room: the AI job displacement narrative. Her take? The layoffs aren't really about AI—they're about companies using AI as cover to do what they've wanted to do for years, just like they did in 2008. And the antidote isn't fear. It's continuous learning, adaptability, and refusing to let your skills go stale.The conversation turns to the five quintessentially human skills that no algorithm can replicate: critical thinking, creativity, resourcefulness, resilience, and problem solving. These aren't soft skills—they're the wisdom and discernment that allow us to evaluate what AI produces, push back when it's wrong, and imagine what it never could. Stephanie's message to artists especially: AI can only produce what it's already seen. It cannot dream, riff, or see a purple sunrise the way a human can—and the world will always need people who can.Beneath all the noise and fear around AI, Stephanie offers something rare: a clear-eyed, hopeful view of what's actually happening—and why the skills that make you human aren't becoming obsolete. They're becoming more essential than ever.Bio:Stephanie Sylvestre's journey is the story of what happens when relentless curiosity meets the cutting edge of technology—and refuses to leave humanity behind. From her early days as a barrier-breaking leader in corporate America to her current role as the founder of an AI company dedicated to preserving Black history through digital twins, Stephanie has always been ahead of the curve. She's not just talking about the future—she's building it, one innovative solution at a time. But what truly sets Stephanie apart isn't just her technical expertise or entrepreneurial spirit—it's her unwavering belief that the most powerful force in the age of AI is still the human mind. Stephanie has helped organizations and individuals navigate seismic technological shifts, all while championing the skills that make us quintessentially human: resilience, creativity, resourcefulness, problem solving and critical thinking. Her story is filled with moments of bold reinvention—like when she leveraged AI to give underrepresented youth access to digital mentors, or when she turned a chance encounter with a government official into a groundbreaking public sector partnership. Stephanie's approach is practical, inspiring, and always rooted in real-world impact.Connect with Stephanie:Email: [email protected] | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeBooks mentioned:All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose by Rashmi Airan – Bookshop | Amazon━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend. The more we educate, inspire, and empower each other, the further this conversation goes.Questions or just want to say hi? Find me at PocketsofKnowledge.com or on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Guests may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services mentioned. Nothing here is medical advice—I'm not a doctor. Please consult a qualified health professional for any medical concerns.

In this rich, soulful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Lauri Smith—speaker, author, coach, and host of the Untamed Leader Podcast—who helps wild-hearted leaders stop performing and start transforming the energy of the room when they speak. Drawing on decades in theater and coaching, Lauri's work is rooted in a simple but radical belief: the most charismatic, compelling version of you is the one you were born as, before the world told you to tone it down.Throughout the episode, Lauri explores why being heard isn't just about finding the right words, but about what your body is doing when you say them, how your breath is (or isn't) moving, and whether you're playing offense or defense before you've even opened your mouth. Her reframe: instead of trying not to do it wrong, set an intention for what you want the room to feel—and lead from there.Lauri also tackles the difference between assertive and aggressive, why "scarecitement" might be more honest than either fear or confidence. Her book, Your Voice Matters: A Guide to Speaking Soulfully When It Counts, is the quieter, introvert-friendly entry point for anyone who has a message but isn't quite ready to step into the room yet.If you've ever walked into a room and immediately made yourself smaller—pulled in your energy, chosen your words carefully—this conversation is for you. Lauri has a way of making you realize that the version of you that got quietly tamed over the years isn't gone. She's just waiting for permission to show up. And your voice? It's not just yours. It's a necessary part of the human orchestra—and the world actually needs to hear it.Bio:Lauri Smith is a speaker, author, coach, and host of the Untamed Leader Podcast. She treats leadership as a sacred art — one that raises consciousness and guides people home to their true selves.Theatre was Lauri's first spiritual home. At 7 years old, her mother found her in the backyard talking to herself and signed her up for acting class. Surrounded by deeply present creatives, it was the first place she felt fully alive. Years later, while juggling an office job by day and theatre by night, someone asked her to fax something — and a voice inside screamed, Don't you know I'm meant for greater things? She stopped hiding. She stopped performing. She crossed a threshold back into everything she'd been told she couldn't or shouldn't be her entire life: Wild. Emotional. Raw. Intuitive. Untamed. Radiant. She let go of who the world told her to be and remembered who she actually is.That moment reshaped how she leads, speaks, and lives. Today, Lauri helps wild-hearted leaders stop performing and start transforming the energy of the room when they speak — so they can ignite meaningful change.Connect with Lauri:Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeResources: The Speaker Alter Ego Quiz – Reveal the mask that dims your one-in-eight-billion radiance and step into speaking and leading from your untamed, soul-aligned voice.Books mentioned:Your Voice Matters: A Guide to Speaking Soulfully When It Counts – Bookshop | AmazonThe Soul-Sourced Entrepreneur by Christine Kane – Bookshop | AmazonThe Alchemist by Paulo Coelho – Bookshop | AmazonPodcasts mentioned: Untamed Leader Podcast with Lauri Smith | Everything is Energy with Cathy Heller | The Bridges and Beacons with Kelly Myerson━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend. The more we educate, inspire, and empower each other, the further this conversation goes.Questions or just want to say hi? Find me at PocketsofKnowledge.com or on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Guests may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services mentioned. Nothing here is medical advice—I'm not a doctor. Please consult a qualified health professional for any medical concerns.

What if getting lost is exactly how you find yourself? In this warm, adventurous conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Tracy Smith—memoirist, solo traveler, and author of The Purpose of Getting Lost—who at 49, after divorce and decades of people-pleasing, booked a one-way ticket to Iceland and never really stopped. What began as an impulsive yes became a four-year journey across continents and a profound reckoning with belonging, identity, and what it means to finally take up space in your own life.Tracy shares how solo travel gave her something she'd never quite found at home: freedom from the pressure to fit in. When you're clearly the outsider, you stop trying to belong and simply get to be. She also makes a distinction that resonates far beyond travel: she hasn't reinvented herself through these adventures. She's simply recognized that she deserves space alongside all her other roles. Not reinvention—recognition. And she's slowly, imperfectly learning to bring that same permission home.Along the way, Tracy opens up about the harder lessons—the holiday moments that didn't go as planned, the loneliness of transitions, and what it took to start showing up for herself without waiting for the right circumstances or the right destination. Her biggest shift has been learning that every moment with someone you love is already the special day—and that releasing the pressure of specific days to carry all the meaning changes everything.Tracy also pulls back the curtain on her next chapter: The Geography of Connection, a year-long project studying how belonging shows up in the smallest human gestures across cultures and continents. Whether you're navigating an empty nest, longing for more adventure, or simply trying to understand why you feel more like yourself somewhere else, this conversation will make you want to raise your hand and say: hey, I'm here too.Bio:Tracy Smith is a memoirist, solo traveler, and storyteller whose debut book, The Purpose of Getting Lost, chronicles her journey from decades of pretending and people-pleasing to rediscovering herself across continents. At 49, after divorce, surgeries, and a lifetime of feeling like she didn't quite fit in, Tracy booked a one-way ticket to Iceland—and kept going. Today, she uses her global adventures to explore belonging, courage, midlife reinvention, and what it really means to choose yourself. Her work resonates deeply with women navigating transition, reminding us that it's never too late to rewrite your story.Connect with Tracy: Email: [email protected] | Website | Facebook | Instagram | SubstackBooks mentioned:The Purpose of Getting Lost: A Story of Finding Myself by Tracy Smith – Bookshop | AmazonAnything by David SedarisUp in the Old Hotel by  Joseph Mitchell – BookshopSubstack:JJ Rose———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Most of us know we should be better prepared financially—but few of us know what "prepared" actually looks like until it's too late. In this warm, practical conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Paula Harris—co-founder of WH Cornerstone Investments, TEDx speaker, and author of Rise Up: A Widow's Journal—who brings both the financial expertise and the human compassion to help women navigate some of life's hardest transitions, from retirement planning to sudden widowhood.Paula walks through the essential financial preparation every woman should have in place before she needs it—named beneficiaries, and your own credit card in your own name. She also offers clear, compassionate guidance for women who have just lost a spouse: don't make rash decisions and above all, don't isolate. Let people show up for you.Beyond the documents and the dollars, Paula challenges women to think more expansively about wealth—not just saving, but investing in your health, asking for the raise you've earned, and aligning your financial decisions with your actual values instead of society's expectations. She also reframes retirement entirely: instead of racing to retire from something, she encourages women to retire to something—a purpose or a community—because a paycheck isn't the only thing work gives us.Whether you're in your 30s just starting to think about this, approaching retirement and wondering what's next, or navigating the loss of a spouse and unsure where to begin, this conversation offers both the practical roadmap and the reassurance that it's never too late—or too early—to get your financial house in order and build a life that's truly yours.Bio:As WH Cornerstone Investments' co-founder, Paula Harris is part financial planner and part dream architect who takes great pride in helping her clients, particularly mid-life widowed women, obtain financial peace of mind while they get back on their feet, rise up and navigate their path forward.Paula is assisting women in the life planning that goes hand-in-hand with financial planning. She is a Return on Life Advisor™, as well as, a Certified Jack Canfield Methodology Trainer in Jack Canfield's Success Principles. She is a TEDx speaker: "Low Tech Love: The Power of a Handwritten Note."Paula is the author of "Rise Up: A Widow's Journal" and "Rise Up: A Grief Journal", as well as, a co-author of "Life Lessons in Success". She is also the founder of Rise Up Success Training and has run several Rise Up weekend retreats for women in transition. She also has a YouTube channel called Wisdom Wednesday | Paula Harris where she shares her ponderings, positivity and prayer.A graduate of Providence College. Paula lives in Massachusetts with her husband & business partner, Bill Harris. Together they love to travel to remote places, go fly fishing, and seek new adventures.Connect with Paula:Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeResources:TEDx talk | The Hallow appBooks mentioned:I'm Dead, Now What? Planner | What if ... Workbook by Gwen W. Morgan: Bookshop | Amazon | The Correspondent by Virginia Evans: Bookshop | Amazon | Theo of Golden by Allen Levi: Bookshop | Amazon | Rise Up: A Widow's Journal by Paula Harris: Amazon | Rise Up: A Grief JournalPodcasts mentioned:Unique Ability with Julia Waller | Darren Hardy Daily on Demand | The Resetter Podcast with Dr Mindy Pelz | The Dr. Hyman Show | Saint of the Day———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

What if the work of finding the right relationship has nothing to do with finding the right person—and everything to do with becoming the right person for yourself? In this candid, eye-opening conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Chaya Garcia—dating and relationship expert, CEO, and host of the 100% Podcast—who shares how a painful breakup at 26 became the catalyst for two decades of research into why smart, successful women end up in unhealthy relationships, and what it actually takes to change that pattern for good.Chaya introduces the concept of love addiction—how waiting for a text, craving approval, and staying in relationships that hurt you follows the same physiological cycle as any substance addiction, including the highs, the lows, and the intermittent reinforcement that keeps you hooked. She explains the critical difference between "finding" a partner (which comes from need) and "attracting" one (which comes from wholeness), and why codependency shows up not just in romance but in friendships and work relationships too. She also offers a powerful reframe for anyone considering whether to stay or leave: it's not about having a broken home—it's about protecting your children and yourself from broken people destroying the home you have.Throughout the episode, Chaya shares her signature inner child work—including mirror work, daily self-talk in a gentle tone, and the Rise and Shine framework from her Epic Love Mastermind—as practical tools for rebuilding self-worth from the inside out. Her guiding philosophy: you are 100% imperfect and 100% lovable at the same time, and your happiness was never anyone else's job to create. When you genuinely believe that, the wrong people stop having power over you.Whether you're navigating a difficult relationship, freshly out of one, or simply trying to understand why you keep ending up in the same patterns, this conversation offers both the clarity and the compassion to start choosing yourself—not someday, but right now.Bio:Chaya Garcia is a LMSW and she’s am on a mission to change marriage dynamics through training women (and men) how to love themselves, re-empower their inner child, be honest with who is responsible for their happiness, educate them on healthy and unhealthy signs of behavior during the dating process and ultimately feel secure and confident in making the decision on who to marry that will ensure healthy dynamics and a safe space for each to grow and fulfill their purposeConnect with Chaya:Website: https://connectwithchaya.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEpicLoveExpert/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chayasarahgarcia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EpicLoveExpertResource:https://marriedin2025.com/Books mentioned:Women Who Love Too Much by  Robin Norwood - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780593716779https://amzn.to/4fbGNc7Podcasts mentioned:The 100% Podcast with Chaya Garcia - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-100-podcast/id1855653894Mel Robbins - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mel-robbins-podcast/id1646101002

What if the exhaustion you're carrying isn't from doing too much—but from doing too much of the wrong things? In this lively, no-BS conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Anne Karber—entrepreneur, author of The Life Hack Playbook, and host of the Let's Get Naked Podcast—who shares how she went from living on autopilot, people-pleasing, and giving from an empty shell to building a life she genuinely loves by getting ruthlessly intentional about where she puts her energy. Anne introduces her signature "Skittles Energy" concept: your energy is finite, valuable, and yours to spend—and most of us are leaking it all over the place on drama, overthinking, and obligations we never actually agreed to. She explains the difference between a life driven by ego (checking boxes, keeping up appearances) and one driven by soul (aligned choices, savage self-awareness, and boundaries that actually protect your peace). From complaining about traffic to replaying arguments in your head to saying yes when every part of you means no—these are all Skittles you'll never get back.Anne offers practical tools for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or out of touch with who they actually are: start with low-hanging fruit, pause before reacting, get quiet enough to hear what your body is telling you, and understand that a yes to someone else is always a no to yourself. She also reframes asking for help—not as weakness, but as giving the people who love you the gift of being able to show up for you.Whether you're a serial people-pleaser running on empty, someone who's been giving from a cracked shell for years, or simply curious about why your life feels like it belongs to everyone but you, this conversation offers both the permission and the practical tools to take it back.Bio:Anne Karber is an entrepreneur, author of The Life Hack Playbook, and host of the Let’s Get Naked Podcast. Known for her no-BS approach to personal growth, she challenges people to break out of performative living and build real self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and ownership. Anne blends raw honesty with practical tools—like her signature “Skittles Energy” framework—to help people stop running on autopilot and start making intentional, aligned choices. Through her work, she’s on a mission to spark real conversations, disrupt old patterns, and help people reconnect with who they actually are.Connect with Anne:Email: [email protected]: https://annekarber.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lets-Get-Naked/61564129792887/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lets_get_naked_podcast/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-karber-abbb949b/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@letsgetnakedpodcastBooks mentioned:The Life Hack Playbook - Proven Shortcuts to Peace & Purpose by Anne Karber - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781969372650https://amzn.to/48Wk3svThe Surrender Experiment by  Michael Singer - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780804141109https://amzn.to/3PjRrTt Brené Brown's work -  The Atlas of the Heart - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780399592553The Atlas of the Heart Podcasts mentioned:Let's Get Naked with Anne Karber - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-get-naked/id1776246773

What if the version of success you're chasing is actually killing you? In this candid conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Amy Loden Tiffany—physician entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, author, and mom of five—who shares how she went from burnout and serious health crises to building a thriving concierge practice that helps ambitious women reclaim their health without losing their impact. Dr. Amy's journey includes multiple wake-up calls that forced her to ask: am I being who I want to be, and if not, what am I going to do about it? She rebuilt her medical practice and her life around a different definition of success—one that doesn't require sacrificing health, relationships, or sanity to make an impact. Throughout the episode, Dr. Amy explains what most doctors won't tell you: pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia aren't just pregnancy problems—they're warning signs of serious long-term health risks. Half of women with gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within five years. Women with preeclampsia face four times higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease before age 60 if left untreated. Yet the healthcare system offers little intervention after delivery.She introduces her VIP framework for decision-making: Values (what matters most), Impact (the change you want to create), and Priorities (how you manage them without guilt). Dr. Amy challenges the myth that successful women just need better time management—the real issue is priority management aligned with your values.Whether you're an ambitious woman feeling the pressure to do it all, navigating postpartum or perimenopause while maintaining your career, or anyone who suspects the way you're living isn't sustainable, this conversation offers both urgent truth and practical tools for building a life that doesn't require sacrificing your health for your success.Bio:Dr. Amy Loden Tiffany is a physician entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, author, and mom of five who’s redefining what success looks like for ambitious women. After years in traditional medicine, Dr. Tiffany built a thriving concierge practice that helps women reclaim their health, energy, and confidence while leading in business, family, and life. She turned her own story of burnout and reinvention into a blueprint for ambitious women who want to lead powerfully without losing themselves. From postpartum to perimenopause, from the boardroom to the home, Dr. Tiffany helps women align their health and goals so they can thrive in every arena of life. Connect with Dr. Amy:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResource:TEDx Talk The Menopause SocietyBooks mentioned:Postpartum Pivot by Amy Loden Tiffany, MD, MBATop Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing By Bronnie WareAtomic Habits by  James Clear - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780735211292https://amzn.to/4na6knWExtreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win (New Edition) by Jocko Willink, Leif Babin - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781250183866https://amzn.to/4cSsbeFPodcasts mentioned:The Authentic Physician with Dr. Amy TiffanyDiary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

CONTENT NOTE: This episode briefly mentions child abuse in the context for how one girl entered the foster system.What begins with one life can change entire generations. In this inspiring conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Ashley Trussell—founder of Butterfly Effect Foundation—who shares how a single relationship during COVID led to creating a nonprofit that now mentors teenage girls aging out of foster care in Arizona, one butterfly at a time.Ashley's journey started when she and her husband met a young woman at their church who was in an unsafe home situation. After DCS placed her in a group home, Ashley kept showing up—bringing her to church, helping her get a job, and making vision boards with the other girls in the home. When another girl asked, "Could you be my mentor?", the foundation was born. What makes Butterfly Effect unique is the one-on-one model: each mentor commits to just one girl, creating a genuine relationship without reporting requirements or professional distance—just someone who shows up and genuinely cares.Ashley explains what most of us take for granted but these girls have never experienced: opening a bank account, getting a driver's permit, building a resume, and learning to save. Butterfly Effect helps them catch up through practical support—mentors connect with them to help them learn practical skills, enjoy outings and experiences, and explore careers they never knew existed. She shares the story of one butterfly who discovered flower arranging with her mentor and built a thriving business at 16, learning real-world skills while saving for her first car.Whether you're considering becoming a mentor, looking for ways to support foster youth in your community, or simply want to understand how one person showing up can change everything, this conversation offers both inspiration and a clear path to making a difference.Bio:Ashley Trussell is the Founder & Chair of the Butterfly Effect Foundation. Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, Ashley and her husband live in Las Sendas and are graduates of Mesa’s Mountain View High School and Arizona State University. Ashley’s two children graduated from Red Mountain High School, with her son playing Division 1 football and graduating from the University of Central Arkansas and her daughter graduating from Grand Canyon University’s Nursing program. Raised in a Christian home, Ashley's values are rooted in God, family, and loving life.Ashley founded Butterfly Effect Foundation, a nonprofit that mentors, one-on-one, teen girls living in group homes, aging out of the foster care system in Arizona. She also serves as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) in Maricopa County. Her life motto is "Love Life."Connect with Ashley:EmailWebsiteInstagramPhone - 602-837-3777Donations can be made directly: Zelle - 602-837-3777Venmo - @butterflyeffectfoundationCheck - PO Box 20166, Mesa, AZ 85277Flower ArrangementsResources:If you need support, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673.Books mentioned: Love Does by Bob Goff - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781400203758https://amzn.to/3R5wQTaEverybody Always by Bob Goff - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780718078133 https://amzn.to/49fzHPJPodcasts mentioned:Voices For CASA The Ramsey Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ramsey-show/id77001367

In this warm, practical conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Gail—speaker, author, and founder of Single Moms Empowered—who has spent nearly two decades turning her hardest season into lasting support for women navigating single motherhood.Gail shares how she returned to college with three little kids and started writing because she realized other women needed the same kind of stories that had carried her through. What began as weekend retreats to give single moms a break evolved into something more permanent when she noticed a pattern: the women who were thriving had some form of education or skill, while those barely scraping by had neither the training nor the time to get it. That insight led her to found Single Moms Empowered in 2007, a nonprofit that helps single mothers earn two-year degrees or certifications in fields with real employment waiting.Throughout the episode, Gail offers clear-eyed, compassionate advice for single mothers and those who want to support them. She talks about the power of routines and calendars, and combating loneliness without running to the wrong places. She encourages awareness without judgment, practical support, and understanding that the viewpoint you have toward a mom makes all the difference. Whether you're a single mom looking for encouragement and practical tools, someone who wants to support the single mothers in your life, or anyone navigating a season that wasn't part of the plan, this conversation offers both hope and actionable wisdom.Bio:Gail Showalter had it all — three children, a family business, a dream home, a boat, and a promising future. Then came the other woman, and everything changed.As a newly single mom, Gail leaned into inspirational stories that fueled her through the hardest season of her life. She returned to college with three little kids in tow, published her first piece, Baby Steps, and eventually moved in an entirely different direction, becoming a Braille teacher. For sixteen years, she navigated single motherhood firsthand.Trained as a personality specialist in 2000, Gail began coaching women and discovered that understanding personalities is essential to parenting and life. What started as simply wanting to give single moms a break grew into something much bigger. In 2007, she founded Single Moms Empowered, a nonprofit supporting single mothers earning a degree that leads to employment. She's still at it.Gail eventually remarried and is now not only a mother but a grandmother. In southeast Texas, she's known as the "Old Bird with Feathers of Wisdom for Women and a Soft Spot for Single Moms." Her book, Living, Learning, Loving, published by Morgan James Publishing, is available on Barnes & Noble and wherever books are sold.She counts herself a fortunate woman, remarried and still passionate about single mothers.Connect with Gail:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResources: https://www.singlemomsempowered.org/The  Jeremiah ProgramBucknerBooks mentioned:Living, Learning, Loving: Lessons of Insight and Encouragement on the Path of Motherhood by Gail Cawley ShowalterWired That Way Florence & Marita Littauerhttps://amzn.to/3Ot02TuEnneagram Made Easy: Explore the Nine Personality Types of the Enneagram by Deborah Threadgill EgertonThe Adversity Advantage: Turning Everyday Struggles into Everyday Greatness by Erik WeihenmayerPodcasts mentioned: Bent Not Broken with Deborah Griffiths——— If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

What if that restless feeling inside you isn't a crisis—but an awakening? In this warm conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Sarah Andreas—artist, author, and reinvention guide—who helps women navigate the in-between space of who they've been and who they're becoming, especially in midlife and major life transitions.  Throughout the episode, Sarah explains how our bodies know our truth before our minds do—that tightness in your chest, tingling in your arms, the feeling of being a butterfly stuck in a cocoon. She encourages writing down 27 things you want to do before your 80th birthday (because it forces you to think beyond the standard list), creating mantras for who you're becoming (not who you are now), and holding your plans with an open palm instead of a closed fist so the universe can show you possibilities you never imagined. Sarah challenges the idea of "learning to be content" when you feel restless. She explains that you don't need to be content—you need to be fulfilled and happy. When you ignore that feeling that there's more for you and keep pushing it down, that's when midlife becomes a crisis instead of a gradual, curious evolution. She also addresses the small daily betrayals we commit against ourselves—saying yes when we mean no, letting others take the time we blocked for ourselves, staying silent about our big dreams—and why these erode our self-trust over time. Whether you're feeling restless in something that looks good from the outside, sensing it's time for change but unsure what that means, or ready to stop betraying yourself every day, this conversation offers both permission and practical tools for stepping into who you're becoming.Bio:Sarah Andreas is an artist, author, and reinvention guide who works with women navigating identity transitions, especially in midlife and major life shifts. Her work is rooted in the belief that reinvention is not a crisis or failure, but a natural awakening that happens when a woman outgrows the life she has been living.  After years in leadership and academia, Sarah experienced her own quiet turning point, realizing that success and responsibility can mask a deeper sense of misalignment. That awakening led her back to art, where creativity became a tool for clarity, self-trust, and identity change. This work became the foundation for her book, Step Into the Ether, and the Reinvention Studio, an online space supporting women who are in the in-between phase of becoming.  Connect with Sarah:Email: [email protected]:https://sarahandreas.com/collections/books-for-becoming-stories-reflections-and-truths-for-women-in-transitionBooks mentioned:Beauty from Chaos by Sarah Andreas - https://sarahandreas.com/products/beauty-from-chaosStep into the Ether by Sarah Andreas - https://sarahandreas.com/products/step-into-the-ether Be Your Future Self Now by  Dr. Benjamin Hardy - Bookshophttps://amzn.to/4moyZVC10x Is Easier Than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan and Dr Benjamin Hardy - Bookshophttps://amzn.to/3QwTT9c

What if the answer to doing more good in the world isn't doing more—but strategically subtracting what drains you? In this thoughtful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Nell 3D—keynote speaker and leadership advisor known for her "loving dagger of truth"—who helps high-performing, purpose-driven leaders reclaim their energy without abandoning their impact.Nell shares her journey from nonprofit work in Palestine to a literal wake-up call: a head-on collision that happened because she was too distracted, doing too much. She walked away physically unharmed but with a life-changing realization—no matter how aligned or purposeful you are, if you're doing too much, it's dangerous to yourself and everyone around you.She introduces her 3D framework for true success: ME (wellbeing), WE (relationships), and WORLD (impact)—all three must be served simultaneously. Then she explains systematic subtraction: not the four-hour work week or rigid boundaries, but an aspirational, relational approach for people who love their work and want to keep making an impact.Nell teaches Stop, Drop, and Roll—stopping to ask "how's it really going?", dropping something experimental (like that meeting where you don't speak), and rolling out the insights by connecting the dots on energy and impact. She challenges hustle culture with systems thinking, shares horse wisdom about starting with the least possible effort, and offers one immediate subtraction: unhelpful thinking (all those post-meeting thoughts wondering if you said too much).Whether you're a helper on the edge of burnout, a leader doing important work who's overwhelmed, or someone who needs permission to stop piling on, this conversation offers both urgent truth and practical tools for reclaiming your energy.Bio:Nell is a keynote speaker and leadership advisor who helps high-performing, purpose-driven leaders subtract what drains them so they can lead with clarity, alignment, and impact. Her work draws on two decades across humanitarian leadership, academia, global consulting, and entrepreneurial ventures — from refugee camps to boardrooms, from research labs to ranches.She is the creator of Lead in 3D, a framework that helps leaders align ME (wellbeing), WE (team performance), and WORLD (meaningful impact). Known for her “loving dagger of truth,” Nell blends rigorous insight with grounded humanity, helping leaders reclaim their energy, their agency, and the work they actually want to be doing.Her insights have been featured in Forbes, and at Fortune 100 companies, industry-leading organizations, world class universities, and high-impact not-for-profit and public sector organizations worldwide.Connect with Nell:EmailWebsiteInstagramLinkedInYouTubeSubstackSubstack Guest PassResources:https://nell3d.kit.com/to-dont-listhttps://nell3d.kit.com/stopdroprollBooks:Moral Injuries When Good Conscience Suffers in a World of Hurt by Michael Valdovinos - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/4vdjlAwUncompete Rejecting Competition to Unlock Success by Ruchika T. Malhotra - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/4tmaxGIAntifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/47DS6FmPodcasts:On Being with Krista TippettThe Garrison Institute

Sometimes the doors we think are closed are just leading us toward a bigger arena of possibilities we haven't seen yet. In this thoughtful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Carlee Wolfe—strategist and coach with 20+ years leading talent and transformation at brands like Under Armour, Hyatt Hotels, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee—who helps people navigate career challenges with clarity instead of urgency.Carlee shares her journey of falling into work she loves while acknowledging the doors that closed along the way. She reframes networking as "connecting to learn"—expanding your limited options by getting curious about what others are doing. For introverts, she offers gentler entry points: start with a neighbor doing something interesting, or find groups that match where you are.She gets practical about AI—not as something to fear, but to get curious about and build skills in, because we're all using it whether we've opted in or not. She explains why staying "at least on pace" matters for long-term career growth and encourages using AI itself to start learning.Carlee shares insights from coaching Paralympic athletes, including the powerful advocacy question: "Is it accessible?" She explains how the same principles apply to careers—making the box bigger so more people can play, rather than fighting to fit into small spaces. She introduces the Three C's (Curiosity, Clarity, Confidence) as both a planning tool and diagnostic when you're stuck.Whether you're facing career uncertainty, feeling overwhelmed by change, or looking for permission to explore what's possible, this conversation offers compassion and practical tools for moving forward.Bio:Carlee Wolfe is a strategist, connector, and coach helping people and organizations thrive through change. With 20+ years of leading talent, culture, and transformation across global brands like Under Armour, Hyatt Hotels, Apollo Education Group, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, she specializes in turning strategy into behavior that sticks.Beyond corporate work, she coaches athletes (including Paralympic hopefuls) and serves on nonprofit boards shaping workforce development and recreation. She believes transformation and career growth don’t have to be complicated - she bring stories, strategies, and tools that help people move forward with purpose. Her work is practical, reflective, and focused on forward motion – helping people move with clarity rather than urgency.She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC).Connect with Carlee:Website: https://aceandarrowconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carleeawolfe/Books mentioned:Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781455586660https://amzn.to/3NLfwBTPodcasts mentioned: 10% Happier with Dan Harris - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/10-happier-with-dan-harris/id1087147821 Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/id1345682353———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this transformative conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Lynn M. Bunch, intuitive educator and founder of the Center for Intuitive Education, who has spent nearly 30 years demystifying intuition and teaching people how to trust their inner wisdom without apology.Lynn shares how she built her life's work around making intuition tangible and accessible—not woo-woo or untouchable, but a normalized tool for navigating life's challenges. She introduces the ID Blueprint™, a framework she developed over decades that functions like "the PhD of your own consciousness"—a roadmap covering six core life areas (relationship, wisdom, support, time, health, and finance) that helps you identify your bottom lines, understand your emotional patterns, and stay aligned with who you truly are.Throughout the episode, Lynn gets real about emotional regulation and why most people make their emotions wrong instead of using them as information. She shares why the things you don't confront will become confrontations later. She also tackles the hard truth most people aren't ready to hear: you're responsible for how you navigate everything that happens to you—even the worst things.Lynn opens up about her own journey through cancer, childhood trauma, and life's wounds, explaining the crucial difference between speaking from a wound versus speaking from a scar. And she challenges the victim mindset with fierce compassion, reminding us that our spirit is always bigger than our human circumstances.Whether you're feeling stuck, ignoring your gut instincts, struggling with emotional patterns you can't name, or ready to stop giving your power away to people and circumstances, this conversation offers both permission and a practical path forward. Bio:Lynn M. Bunch is an intuitive educator, spiritual guide, and transformation expert with over 25 years of experience helping individuals connect with their inner wisdom to create lasting change. Through her unique ID Blueprint™ curriculum and one-on-one coaching, Lynn empowers her clients to break free from emotional blocks, align their energy, and manifest their desires with clarity and confidence.   Lynn’s bold, direct approach has helped thousands worldwide overcome emotional obstacles and create real-world results. Whether through private sessions, group events, or her ID Blueprint™ certification program, Lynn offers practical tools and intuitive guidance to help individuals transform their lives, heal emotional wounds, and unlock their full potential.   Known for her no-nonsense teaching style, Lynn is passionate about helping others embrace their intuition as a powerful tool for personal empowerment. She believes everyone has the ability to live a life of purpose and alignment, and she is dedicated to helping her clients achieve that through clear action steps and intuitive insights.   With a mission to help people take responsibility for manifesting their desires, Lynn’s approach blends emotional healing with intuitive practices to create a harmonious, empowered life.  Connect with Lynn:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResouces:Intuitive Insights Event———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this empowering conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Kelly Schuknecht, founder of Two Mile High Marketing and host of Beyond the Bestseller podcast, who shares her journey from 17 years in publishing and marketing to building her own agency—and helping professional women do the same.Kelly opens up about the two and a half years she spent preparing for a job loss she could feel coming when her company was acquired. Instead of panicking when it finally happened, she went all in on her business dream. Throughout the episode, Kelly breaks down the difference between personal branding (how people perceive you) and thought leadership (what people come to you for expertise on)—and why you need both to stand out, especially in an AI-saturated world. She gets tactical about promoting a book without beating people over the head with "buy my book," leveraging podcast interviews for content repurposing, and building a 30-day content strategy around your expertise. She also shares why authors need to show their human side, not just their work.Kelly explains her unique approach to fractional marketing: starting with a two-hour workshop that results in a go-to-market funnel with actionable tactics, not just abstract strategy. She also discusses her Author Power Circle, writing retreats, and her upcoming book, “The Authority X Factor”.Whether you're an author struggling to promote your book, an entrepreneur who knows you should be "out there" but don't know how, or a professional woman ready to step out from behind someone else and build your own platform, this conversation offers both inspiration and a practical roadmap.Bio:I’ve spent over 17 years in marketing, helping entrepreneurs and professionals elevate their brands and grow their businesses. But my journey wasn’t a straight line—it was shaped by the challenges of navigating leadership, motherhood, and a deep desire to do meaningful work. Like many women, I wanted to build a career I was proud of without sacrificing my family or my values. That’s when I discovered the power of thought leadership: sharing your expertise and story in a way that inspires others and drives real growth. Today, I run Two Mile High Marketing, where I specialize in fractional marketing and thought leadership development. I also host the Beyond the Bestseller podcast, where I empower women to share their stories, build their platforms, and make an impact. I’m passionate about helping professionals—especially women—navigate the messy middle of leadership, entrepreneurship, and visibility. Whether we’re talking about marketing strategy, personal branding, or the nuances of remote work, I love sharing insights that help others take actionable steps toward their goals. Connect with Kelly:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeTikTokResouces:https://kellyschuknecht.com/resources#free-downloadsBooks mentioned:Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life by Shannon Russell - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9798992075403https://amzn.to/477X0ciPodcasts mentioned:Beyond the Bestseller with Kelly Schuknect - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-bestseller/id1780870099Shannon Russell Ep #158 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pockets-of-knowledge/id1647662137?i=1000732973105———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this brain-science-backed conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dorota Kosiorek, AI startup leader, brain-based coach, and former management consultant who combines neuroscience and sport psychology to help high performers stop burning out and start winning sustainably.Dorota shares her journey from high-pressure consulting to discovering that working on her own terms unlocked both productivity and joy—but also revealed our brains aren't built for constant information bombardment and always-on culture.After a decade climbing the corporate ladder, she realized the higher she went, the less aligned she felt. When a startup opportunity appeared, she made the leap—discovering that working on her own terms unlocked both productivity and joy. But it also revealed something crucial: our brains aren't built for constant information bombardment and always-on culture.She introduces the "Strategic Off-Season"—borrowing from elite athletes who build recovery into performance cycles—and gets practical with environment design, recovery routines, and visualization techniques for high-stakes situations.Whether you're running on fumes or want to perform at your best without sacrificing well-being, this conversation offers a science-backed roadmap for sustainable success.Bio:Dorota Kosiorek—AI Startup Leader, Brain-Based Coach, and former management consultant (PwC, BCG). My work sits at the intersection of Neuroscience, Sport Psychology, and Hospitality. She combines business strategy with athlete psychology to help you stop grinding and start winning. While most coaches focus purely on "grinding harder," I focus on Environment Design. I help leaders curate a high-performance lifestyle that includes a "Strategic Off-Season"—the intentional recovery required to sustain elite decision-making over the long term. I am currently living a dual reality: By day, I lead international teams at a tech scale-up. By night, I am building a portfolio career and "scouting" the world to launch a future hospitality brand.  Connect with Dorota:Website: https://dorotakosiorek.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorota.kosiorek.56/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindbydorota/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorotakosiorekSubstack: https://thestrategicoffseason.substack.com/Books mentioned:The Power of Systems: How to Create a Life that Works by Steve Chandler Trevor Timbeck - https://amzn.to/3Pva1YgStolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention--and How to Think Deeply Againby Johann Hari - https://amzn.to/4bgQbXZBooks by  Joe Dispenza Podcasts mentioned:Huberman Lab - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110

What if the distance you feel from others actually starts with the distance you feel from yourself? In this reflective conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Kristan Swan, M.Ed., a former business coach turned life and spiritual guide who helps people come home to themselves.Kristan shares her non-linear journey from business coach to spiritual guide, and how the pandemic's depletion led her to ask: what's one small way I could bring people together? Her answer: help people close the gap within themselves first. When we slow down enough to get curious about ourselves, we create space for authentic connection with others.She explores the three buckets of stories we carry—the ones we tell ourselves, the ones we've inherited, and the ones we're willing to share—and challenges the idea that our pasts define us. Every day presents choices to write a new chapter. Kristan tackles why changing your mind isn't a character flaw (it's what thoughtful people do), the practice of non-judgmental observation, and why slowing down is an act of kindness.She also introduces "mapping hope"—the idea that if we're skilled at imagining worst-case scenarios, we owe ourselves equal time exploring best-case possibilities. And she shares her journaling tools like "Spaghetti on the Wall" for daily awareness and "Heart Mapping" for when words fail.Whether you're feeling stuck, exhausted from proving yourself, or disconnected from who you are beneath the noise, this conversation offers permission to slow down, get curious, and remember: your story is still being written.Bio:Kristan Swan, M.Ed. is a business coach turned life and spiritual guide devoted to helping people come home to themselves. After years spent guiding entrepreneurs and leaders to build successful businesses, she now uses that same strategic insight to help people build lives that feel deeply aligned with who they are. Kristan’s work invites you to explore your deepest truths, question the beliefs you’ve inherited, and reconnect with the inner wisdom you may have been taught to ignore. She believes that curiosity is one of the most powerful tools we have — a way to approach our lives with openness, creativity, and compassion.Her work is rooted in the belief that our pasts do not define us — they inform us. And when we learn to honor where we’ve been, we create space to shape where we’re going. Kristan’s mission is simple yet profound: to help you see that your story is still being written — and to give you the courage, clarity, and creativity to write it on purpose.Connect with Kristan:Email: [email protected]: https://kristanswan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristan.swan/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristanbrowne/Books mentioned:The Book of Awakening-Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have by Mark Nepo - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781590035009A Year with Hafiz: Daily Contemplations by  Daniel Ladinsky - https://amzn.to/479aAwZPodcasts mentioned:The Treatment with Elvis Mitchell - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-treatment/id73330616

What if the depression, anxiety, or feeling of "not enough" isn't who you are—but just your body trying to tell you something? In this transformative conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank, the “Mindset Doctor”, to explore how our thoughts literally shape our biology and why healing starts with listening to your body.Dr. Anna Marie shares her journey that moment launched a 20-year journey into holistic health and brain science—leading her to walk away from an 18-year six-figure career at 40 to build Happy Whole You, her thriving wellness practice.She breaks down the science of epigenetics—how your environment (what you see, eat, listen to, touch) tells your cells how to behave—and explains how your brain's "Google search engine" filters reality to validate whatever you're looking for, and why a dysregulated nervous system is behind most struggles with health and decision-making.Dr. Anna Marie gets practical with tools like deep breathing techniques and pressure points to calm your nervous system. She also dives into her book "Stop Bullying Yourself: Identify Your Inner Bully, Get Out of Your Own Way & Enjoy Greater Health, Wealth, Happiness and Success," sharing how that relentless inner voice of "not good enough" can be silenced when you learn to lead with soul instead of ego.Whether you're battling that "not good enough" voice, stuck in a soul-sucking job, or exhausted from proving yourself, this conversation offers hope and a roadmap. You have more control over your biology than you think.Bio:Dr. Anna Marie, known as the Mindset Doctor, is a visionary leader with over two decades of expertise in human health and mindset, committed to transforming lives. Armed with a Ph.D. in Natural Medicine and certifications in Brain Health, Chinese Medicine, Traditional Naturopathy, and Herbology, she is a respected author, keynote speaker, and the host of "The Happy Whole You Podcast." As the founder of Happy Whole You, she leads the charge to destigmatize mental health and guide individuals toward holistic well-being.Dr. Anna Marie's groundbreaking brain-nutraceuticals, mindset rewiring techniques, and holistic practices are reshaping mental health. Her diverse background—from teaching to corporate wellness to CEO and business owner—provides a relatable perspective on how to live an extraordinary life for optimal health and happiness. Anna Marie healed her brain after years of depression and challenges with dyslexia and ADHD. Anna Marie walked away from an 18-year career at 40 years old to pursue her desire to help people become happy and whole by rewiring the mind and body that hold them back.Connect with Dr Anna Marie:EmailWebsite: https://drannamarie.com/https://happywholeyou.com/FacebookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.anna.marie/https://www.instagram.com/happywholeyou/LinkedInYouTubeBooks mentioned:Stop Bullying Yourself - Identify your inner bully, get out of your own way & enjoy greater health, wealth, happiness and success by Dr Anna MarieBooks by Louise HayDr. Daniel AmenDr. Bruce LiptonDr. Joe Dispenza Podcasts mentioned:Happy Whole You with Dr Anna Marie Frank———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

Getting fired two months into what was supposed to be your job until retirement sounds like a nightmare—but for Merry Korn, it became the catalyst for building one of the world's most successful for-profit social enterprises. In this powerful conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Merry, founder of Pearl Interactive Network, Inc., to talk about transformation, resilience, and what happens when rock bottom becomes your foundation.As a terrified single mother with two teenagers, Merry didn't crumble—she negotiated five months of severance for a two-month position and made a deal with God: show me what to do, and I'll dedicate my life to helping others. What followed was a company that grew to employ over 1,300 people across 30 states, with hiring priority given to disabled veterans, people with disabilities, and those in economically challenged communities.Merry shares her years of "imposter syndrome"—having the title and paycheck but no passion—and why being fired could be the best thing that ever happens to you. She gets brutally practical about negotiating severance, protecting yourself during termination, and rewriting your story so you don't show up as a victim in your next interview.Whether you've been fired, are stuck in a soul-sucking job, or feel disconnected from your purpose, this conversation offers both inspiration and real-world strategies. Merry's story proves that sometimes the worst thing that happens to you can lead to the most meaningful work of your life.Bio:Merry Korn is the visionary founder of Pearl Interactive Network, Inc., one of the world’s most successful for-profit social enterprise firms. After 20 years of pioneering innovation in social entrepreneurship, Merry now shares her expertise through nationally recognized content, speaking engagements, and advisory services for business owners seeking transformation and those ready to break free from career stagnation.As a single parent with two teenagers heading to college, I was terrified. That rock-bottom moment became my foundation. In the depths of my despair, I remembered the two most powerful influences in my life: my mother, a Holocaust survivor who escaped both a death train and a death march, and Oscar Schindler, who proved that creating meaningful work could literally save lives.Inspired by their examples, I launched a for-profit social enterprise specifically designed to hire people with the greatest barriers to employment—disabled veterans, veterans, military spouses, people with disabilities, and people living in the most economically challenged parts of the U.S. Within months, this venture grew to employ over 1,300 people across 30 states.Getting fired forced me to finally listen to the voice inside that had been screaming at me for years—and to honor the legacy of resilience and purpose I'd inherited.This experience inspired my book "Fired to Inspired" and my work helping thousands navigate career transitions.Connect with Merry:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInResourcesBooks mentioned:Fired to InspiredFeel the Fear... and Do It Anyway by Susan JeffersThe Artist’s Way by  Jules Cameron The Power of Now by Eckhart TolleMan’s Search For Meaning by Viktor FranklPodcasts mentioned:The Mel Robbins PodcastBrene Brown Dare to LeadThe Oprah Podcast———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

What if you're not broken—just misaligned? In this conversation, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Stefanie Carlstedt, a Certified Human Design Business Coach who helps entrepreneurs and teams ditch one-size-fits-all strategies and build success that actually fits. After 13 years of entrepreneurial trial-and-error, Stef discovered Human Design and everything changed. Now she helps others build businesses and lives that honor who they truly are—without the burnout and confusion.Stef shares her personal journey from corporate burnout to building a six-figure business that left her feeling empty. When her father was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's, she walked away from her social work career to be with him and started fresh. After his passing, a text from her sister-in-law about Human Design finally gave her the clarity she'd been searching for—and transformed her business, her relationships, and her understanding of herself.So what is Human Design? Unlike personality tests that rely on a conditioned mind, Human Design uses your birth date, time, and location to create a personalized chart showing how you're meant to move through the world. Stef breaks down the five energy types and explains why some people thrive with hustle while others burn out, why following someone else's blueprint rarely works, and how understanding your unique decision-making process can help you stop saying yes when your body is screaming no.Whether you're an entrepreneur struggling to find your footing, a leader trying to support your team, or someone who's tired of feeling like life has to be so hard, this episode offers practical tools and a refreshing reminder: when you align with your true design, everything shifts.Bio:Stefanie Carlstedt is a Certified Human Design Business Coach for Entrepreneurs and Teams. After 13 years of trial-and-error in entrepreneurship, she discovered the power of Human Design to turn burnout and confusion into clarity and sustainable growth. Today she helps business owners and teams ditch one-size-fits-all strategies and build success that actually fits, by design.Connect with Stefanie:Website: http://stefcarlstedt.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stefanie.carlstedt.2025Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stefaniecarlstedt/Resources:http://stefcarlstedt.com/hdreporthttps://www.stefcarlstedt.com/magneticbusinessBooks mentioned:Outlive - The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780593236598https://amzn.to/4trX2qaThe Gene Keys Embracing Your Higher Purpose by Richard Rudd - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781780285429https://amzn.to/46sPtFBPodcasts mentioned:The Human Design Advantage with Stefanie Carlstedt - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-human-design-advantage/id1818861491Be Magnetic Podcast with Tara Fischer - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-magnetic-podcast/id1660554761———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Next Level Soul Podcast with Alex Ferrari - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari/id1560904383

In this expansive and energizing episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and high-performance coach Cortney McDermott for a conversation that blends science, soul, and strategy. With a career that spans executive roles in global corporations, bestselling books, and appearances on stages like TEDx and Mindvalley, Cortney shares how real transformation starts from within—and how we can all access deeper alignment, joy, and purpose by tuning into our own innate wisdom.Cortney opens up about her personal journey from being miserably successful to becoming a conscious creator of a more aligned life and business. She and Desiree explore topics like intuitive decision-making, rewiring subconscious beliefs, and why “hustle culture” often leads us away from the very success we’re chasing. Cortney introduces the neuroscience behind change, the power of permission, and how curiosity can be a guiding force when we're stuck or in transition.Throughout the conversation, Cortney encourages listeners to stop outsourcing their power and start designing a life that actually feels good—not just looks good on paper. Whether you're a high-achieving professional, a curious seeker, or someone craving more clarity and calm in your life, this episode offers practical tools and soulful insights to help you return to your center, trust your inner voice, and create from a place of true alignment.Bio:Cortney McDermott is an award-winning author and speaker and celebrity coach. Her work in self-development and business strategy has been featured in Inc., Women’s Health, NBC, The Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, and SUCCESS, and her talks on human potential have been shared on stages including TEDx, Mindvalley, Oxford Saïd Business School, and Richard Branson’s private island, Necker.With a Master of Science from the London School of Economics, Cortney blends academic rigor with real-world experience to help individuals and organizations reach their highest potential. Her career highlights include executive roles at Vanity Fair Corporation, Vice President at Sustainability Partners Inc., and successfully running her own businesses, where she has worked with brands such as Universal Music Group, Nike, Kickstarter, and Google.Connect with Cortney:Website: https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortneymcdermott/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cortneymcdermott/YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@cortincResources:https://youtu.be/L2f8w1v-Hzo?si=e_Pu3GFB5w9YXGLSBooks mentioned:Give Yourself Permission. Be Confident. Be Happy. Be You. Cortney McDermott - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781736357019https://amzn.to/3ZS7Vnf Change Starts Within You: Unlock the Confidence to Lead with IntuitionCortney McDermott - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780998955209https://amzn.to/4qi10Pl Think and Grow Rich Napoleon Hill - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781585424337https://amzn.to/4rqn1w5Books by:Alan WattsWallace Wattles———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this insightful and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Dr. Robin Buckley—clinical psychologist, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and author of Marriage, Inc.: The Boardroom Blueprint to Lasting Love—for a thought-provoking conversation about applying business strategies to romantic relationships. With her background in cognitive behavioral psychology and executive coaching, Dr. Buckley brings a unique and strategic lens to improving communication, conflict resolution, and connection in both personal and professional partnerships.Together, Desiree and Dr. Buckley explore how high-achieving individuals and couples can use tools like goal-setting and strategic planning—traditionally reserved for the workplace—to build healthier, more intentional relationships at home. Dr. Buckley shares how she helps couples move from autopilot to clarity by identifying shared visions, setting expectations, and having proactive conversations about topics that are often avoided until they become problems.The conversation also touches on handling resentment, building emotional equity, and why couples therapy isn’t just for when things are broken—it’s a performance tool for growing stronger together. Dr. Buckley emphasizes that relationships are not “soft” or second-tier compared to career ambitions—they deserve structure, attention, and investment too.Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, navigating marriage, or simply curious about how to bring more intention to your partnerships, this episode offers a fresh approach to love and connection.Bio:Dr. Robin Buckley earned her PhD in clinical psychology from Hofstra University, with specialized training in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Her work as an expert in the field has been featured on multiple media platforms, including Entrepreneur, Chief, Authority Magazine, Nike, and on the 2023 TED stage. As an international speaker, Robin focuses on applying cognitive behavioral strategies to mental wellness in the workplace and to women’s equity and empowerment. As a coach, Robin applies cognitive behavioral tactics to help organizations, couples, and individuals create strategic plans for professional and personal success.Connect with Dr Robin Buckley:Website: https://drrobinbuckley.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingthepowerwithin/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobinbuckley/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robin-buckley/Books mentioned:Marriage Inc The Boardroom Blueprint to Lasting Love by Dr Robin Buckley- https://amzn.to/3K9MLx1Coupon: Marriage20 Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781594634727https://amzn.to/4r0shHfPodcasts mentioned:unPAUSED  with Dr. Mary Claire Haver - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unpaused-with-dr-mary-claire-haver/id1846701533 Wiser than me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wiser-than-me-with-julia-louis-dreyfus/id1678559416———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes career strategist and coach Rachel Spekman for a grounded and inspiring conversation about redefining work, purpose, and what it means to build a soul-aligned career. As the founder of Made For More Coaching—with a background in both startups and therapy—Rachel shares her unique approach to helping high-performing professionals move from “soul-sucking” jobs to careers that light them up.Rachel and Desiree explore the emotional and practical realities of navigating career transitions, especially for women in midlife who feel stuck, burned out, or disconnected from their work. Rachel offers tangible tools like the “three Cs” framework (community, contribution, and challenge), career audits, and a fresh take on how to balance financial needs with emotional fulfillment. They also discuss the value of clarity, the myths around income and success, and why quitting with a plan is more powerful than just walking away.Whether you're feeling disconnected in your current role, considering a major pivot, or simply seeking more meaning in your professional life, this episode is filled with thoughtful insights, practical strategies, and soul-level encouragement to help you step into a career that feels aligned, sustainable, and truly your own.Bio:Rachel Spekman is a veteran coach who helps professionals who are unfulfilled in their careers identify how to tap into their unique potential. After 15 years in marketing brands, 10 years helping startup founders, and 5 years as a therapist, she has helped hundreds of people to reinvent themselves and their careers. Rachel now focuses all of her time and energies on helping high-performing professionals go from high pay, miserable, and unhealthy in their careers to applying their gifts and talents in ways that make them great incomes by aligning with their values and purpose.Connect with Rachel:Email: [email protected]: https://www.rachelspekman.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelSpekmanCareerConsultingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelspekman/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MadeforMoreCoachResources:https://www.rachelspekman.com/high-stakes-career-auditBooks mentioned:Meaningful Work How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee By Wes Adams, Tamara Myles  - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781541704534https://amzn.to/49y4UOZPodcasts mentioned: The Midlife Chrysalis with Chip Conley - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-midlife-chrysalis/id1817695682———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

If you've ever felt behind with money, overwhelmed by financial jargon, or unsure how to prioritize yourself without guilt, this episode is your permission slip to start fresh. Host Desiree Stanley welcomes certified financial planner, educator, and speaker Linda Grizly—creator of the ME Money Method—for a powerful, down-to-earth conversation about building confidence and clarity with your finances. With no shame, no judgment, and plenty of real talk, Linda shares her journey from teen mom to successful financial expert, opening up about the moments that shaped her relationship with money and inspired her mission to help others—especially women—feel seen, supported, and empowered.Throughout the conversation, Linda explains how understanding your money personality type—whether you’re a spender, saver, avoider, security seeker, or risk taker—can shift the way you manage and feel about your finances. She also emphasizes that it’s possible to build a life you love without following a budget you hate. Desiree and Linda explore how to start feeling in control of your money, why mindset and emotional clarity matter just as much as the math, and how setting aside guilt-free “ME money” can lead to joyful, intentional spending. Whether you're rebuilding after a life change, starting from scratch, or just ready to think differently about wealth, this inspiring episode offers practical insight, heartfelt encouragement, and a reminder that it’s never too late to reconnect with your power and invest in yourself—one small step at a time.Bio:I’ve always had a strong pull to help people feel seen, supported, and capable. From a young age, I could tell when someone needed extra encouragement,  and it became the heart of everything I do.I’ve blended a career in financial planning with my passion for personal growth and a deep love of speaking to inspire to do one thing:Help you feel confident and in control of your money and your life - without lecture or judgment.Whether you’re rebuilding, just getting started, or ready to rise, I’m here to help you:    Break through limiting beliefs    Learn how money actually works    Understand the power of mindset    Build wealth your way    Think bigger about what’s possibleI’m a people enthusiast who thrives on deep conversations, big visions, and helping others reconnect with their power.Connect with Linda:Website: https://www.lindagriz.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindagrizelyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindagrizely/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-grizely/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LindaGrizelyResources:Money Personality Quiz: https://bit.ly/MonPersQuizBooks mentioned:Think and Grow Rick by Napoleon Hill - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781585424337https://amzn.to/4aUbd0921 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781400236169https://amzn.to/4qNKqHp Lessons from Thought Leaders - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781735742861https://amzn.to/4qaJLQwBecoming Your Best Self: Lessons on Resilience, Attitude and Personal Growth - https://amzn.to/49j9Y9OPodcasts mentioned:Real Money, Real life with Linda Grizely – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-money-real-life/id1831822405———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Jodi Vandenberg-Daves—leadership strategist, historian, and author of Leading With Courage: A Career-Long Guide for Idealistic Women—for a thought-provoking conversation about redefining leadership, navigating career transitions, and owning your influence at every stage of life.Drawing from her background as a professor, social justice advocate, and founder of JVD Consulting, Jodi shares how our earliest messages about gender and visibility shape perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and our willingness to lead. She explains how women can begin to rewrite those narratives by aligning with their values, setting internal and external boundaries, and embracing the unique strengths they bring to leadership—like emotional agility, collaboration, and cultural humility.Desiree and Jodi also explore the power of intergenerational wisdom, why courage is more of a daily practice than a grand gesture, and how journaling and storytelling can be healing tools for reclaiming our voices. You’ll learn practical strategies to manage triggers, reframe "missed opportunities," and give yourself permission to lead boldly in work and life—even without a formal title.Whether you’re a rising professional, a mid-career leader juggling caregiving, or a seasoned woman reflecting on your legacy, this episode is a generous invitation to see yourself as a change-maker with something meaningful to contribute.Bio:I grew up in the exurbs of Chicago, a union electrician dad, and an at-home-mom-turned-realtor. I learned about solidarity at a young age, and then had my world opened by the curiosity-inducing adventures of academia, especially its winding paths through history. Got my PhD in History, and fell in love with stories of how people have made meaning out of their lives in all kinds of different circumstances. Intertwined with history has been social justice advocacy. And intertwined with that, my life passions of being a mother and a mentor. Through feminist and anti-racist lenses, I’ve helped nurture generations of leadership anchored in care and courage. I didn’t have a lot of mentoring when I was emerging in my career, but I really try to be the person I needed when I was younger.I love conversations about empowering diverse women’s voices and talents, career balancing acts, bold leadership anchored in progressive and humane values, and authenticity in the work we do in the world. I also love to talk about how, no matter who we are or what we’re doing, we can understand ourselves in the flow of history. We can learn from those who came before us, and from the young people who challenge and inspire us. I’m here for thoughtful conversations and surprising ideas.Connect with Jodi:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInResource:https://www.jodivandenberg-daves.com/onlineleadershipcourseBooks mentioned:Leading With Courage:  A Career-Long Guide for Idealistic Women by Jodi Vandenberg-Daveshttps://amzn.to/4pr3ytI  Poems in the Mother Tongue  by Jodi Vandenberg-Daveshttps://amzn.to/4pr2lmcUntapped Leadership Harnessing the Power of Underrepresented Leaders by Jenny Vazquez-Newsumhttps://amzn.to/4qa0pQhWhen We're in Charge The Next Generation’s Guide to Leadership by Amanda Litmanhttps://amzn.to/4su7Za3Podcasts mentioned:Brene Brown - Dare To LeadUnlocking Us———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this soulful and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Keri Nola—former psychotherapist turned spiritual mentor and healer—to explore the transformative power of shadow work, mature manifestation, and receiving with grace. Known as the Shadow Mama and Receptivity Queen, Keri brings her signature blend of wisdom and warmth to a conversation that invites us to drop the hustle, tune into our soul’s calling, and embrace the parts of ourselves we’ve long hidden away.Together, Keri and Desiree dive into why personal winters—those quiet, uncertain seasons of life—often hold the richest seeds of transformation. Keri shares how her own leap from a successful therapy practice into a more spiritually aligned business was not only terrifying but also deeply healing. They discuss what it means to engage in mature manifestation (hint: it’s not just about asking the universe for stuff) and how embracing receptivity is a radical, feminine act of abundance.You’ll also hear how grief can serve as a sacred portal for spiritual growth, and how tracking the everyday expressions of abundance—from compliments to creative ideas—can shift us out of scarcity and into expansion. Keri opens up about her intuitive process behind creating the Messages from Shadow oracle deck, offering listeners a glimpse into how shadow work can become a daily practice of self-trust, clarity, and empowerment.If you’re navigating a life transition, feeling stuck in old patterns, or simply ready to remember the truth of who you are, this conversation is your invitation to return to your inner wisdom—and receive what’s always been yours.Bio:Keri Nola, known as the Shadow Mama and Receptivity Queen, specializes in transforming scarcity consciousness and guiding Givers to receive and serve abundantly. With over a decade of experience as a Licensed Psychotherapist, Keri retired in 2017 and transitioned to a global mentor, guide, author, and podcaster. She now supports therapists, healers, and spiritually aware entrepreneurs in transmuting fear, activating their purpose, and harmonizing giving and receiving in alignment with Divine Will.Connect with Keri:Email: [email protected]: https://kerinola.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keri_nola/Resources: Messagesfromshadow.comBooks mentioned:The Serviceberry Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781668072240https://amzn.to/3MZPJF2The Wisdom of Menopause (4th Edition) Creating Physical and Emotional Health During the Change by Christiane Northrup M.D. - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780525486138https://amzn.to/4q7eJIOExistential Kink Unmask Your Shadow and Embrace Your Power (a Method for Getting What You Want by Getting Off on What You Don't) by Carolyn Elliott PhD - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781578636471https://amzn.to/4pAKUAuPodcasts mentioned:The Telepathy Tapes by Ky Dickens - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-telepathy-tapes/id1766382649———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this deeply supportive episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Sue McCreadie—holistic pediatrician and midlife transformation guide—for an honest conversation about healing and navigating the beautifully complicated season of midlife. Drawing from her own journey through gut and hormonal imbalances, miscarriages, and spiritual awakening, Dr. Sue shares how midlife can be more than just a transition—it can be a powerful portal to joy, clarity, and deeper self-connection.Dr. Sue opens up about her shift from conventional medicine to a more integrative, spiritually grounded approach that blends science, psychology, and soulful tools like tarot and numerology. You’ll also hear why joy is not a luxury but a form of medicine, and how embracing your quirks and questions can lead to true transformation.Whether you're navigating midlife heartbreak, curious about the deeper meaning behind your symptoms, or simply craving more joy and connection, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to reclaim the vibrant woman you’ve always been.Bio:Dr. Sue is a holistic pediatrician and midlife transformation expert who helps women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s navigate hormones, heartbreak, and healing — so they can stop settling and start living with joy. Her mission: to make transformation simple, soulful, and even fun — because when women rise, we raise the vibration of the world for our children.Her journey from medical doctor to midlife transformation guide winds through years of gut and hormonal imbalances, miscarriages, relationship turning points, and the whole messy-beautiful process of becoming who she really is. What has she learned? The best medicine is your Soulfull Medicine — your own inner compass that always knows who you are and where you're meant to go.At Soulfull Medicine, we support wise, wondering midlife women who are ready to make this season of life count. Whether they feel lonely in marriage, lost in the daily grind, or just know deep down they were made for more — we help them shift. Gently. Powerfully. Permanently.We blend grounded tools (think: psychology, coaching, real-life science) with soulful ones (hello, tarot numerology!) to help women feel safe, seen, and spiritually supported. Whether it’s decoding emotional patterns, reigniting intimacy, or embracing faith during change, we guide women to discover their own version of freedom and fulfillment.I believe every path is divinely perfect, quirks are sacred, and joy is medicine.Connect with Dr. Sue:Email: [email protected]: https://www.drsuemccreadie.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drsuemccreadieInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsuemccreadieResources:https://www.drsuemccreadie.com/soulfull-medicine-quiz-abundantBooks mentioned:What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Oprah Winfrey (Author), Bruce D. Perry - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781250223180https://amzn.to/4nBZd6HPodcasts mentioned:The Telepathy Tapes by Ky Dickens - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-telepathy-tapes/id1766382649

In this heart-opening and hilariously insightful episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley sits down with the multifaceted Merit Kahn, playwright, comedian, keynote speaker, and creator of the one-woman show Optimistic Personality Disorder™. Merit shares the deeply personal and refreshingly funny journey that led her to write and perform a show that unpacks life’s messiest plot twists—divorce, cancer, narcissists, motherhood, and more—with irreverent humor and emotional depth.Merit and Desiree explore how laughter can be a powerful healing tool, how journaling can unlock new perspectives, and how rewriting our personal narratives (literally and figuratively) can reshape the way we move forward. Merit reflects on the threads that have run through her life and how returning to “who you've always been” can be the most powerful transformation of all.She also dives into emotional intelligence, the concept of "anchored optimism," and why the simple question “Are you open to…” can be a gateway to possibility and change.Whether you're navigating change, looking to reframe your past, or just in need of a good laugh and some soulful insight, this episode is a must-listen.Bio:Merit Kahn is the playwright, producer, and performer of Optimistic Personality Disorder™, an inspiring, hilarious one-woman show for women navigating life’s messiest plot twists—divorce, cancer, narcissists, motherhood, empty nesting, and everything in between. It’s a rollercoaster of real-life stories told through stand-up, storytelling, and a healthy dose of irreverent optimism… because sometimes the only way through it is to laugh at it. But the show is just the opening act.Merit also leads Rewrite. Reset. Reimagine: The WorkShow Experience™—a transformational 24-hour retreat that blends personal development with powerful performance. It’s part workshop, part comedy show, and 100% devoted to helping you reframe your story and design your next chapter with clarity, courage, and maybe even a few cartwheels.Offstage, Merit is a professional keynote speaker and Emotional Intelligence expert who’s trained thousands of leaders and sales teams to show up with more humanity, authenticity, and impact. Her favorite audiences are the ones ready to laugh, learn, and let go of who they were supposed to be.Whether she’s on a stage, in a workshop, or on a podcast, Merit’s message is clear:You can’t change the past… but you can rewrite your past and rewire your future. It's my greatest joy in life to open people's minds to new possibilities.As a businessperson, I do that through keynotes, consulting, training & coaching on sales, influence, communication & leadership topics.As an entertainer, I do that through comedy performances and workshops that help you rewrite your past and re-ignite your future.Connect with Merit:EmailWebsiteFacebookLinkedInYouTubeBooks mentioned:Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck Influence by Robert CialdiniPodcasts mentioned: Mom's Unhinged Comedy The PodcastLife Coaching with Christine HasslerHere's a short video about the show

In this refreshing and empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Lisa Haynes—retired CFO, retirement coach, and author of Retired and Killin’ It—to talk about reinventing life after corporate success and why retirement is really just the beginning of a bold new chapter. After three decades in corporate America, including a decade in the C-suite, Lisa walked away from her high-powered role to redefine retirement on her own terms—and now she helps others do the same.Together, Desiree and Lisa explore the emotional side of leaving full-time work, the challenges many professionals face in transitioning from “doing” to “being,” and why your sense of identity doesn’t have to retire when you do. Lisa introduces her signature Killin’ It formula—eight elements that help retirees design a life of joy, purpose, and meaning. Whether it’s legacy, creativity, health, or fun, Lisa shows that retirement is a chance to align with what truly lights you up.With warmth, humor, and practical insight, Lisa shares what it takes to navigate this transition with clarity and confidence—and how we can all start thinking differently about what success looks like in our later years.Whether you’re nearing retirement, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how to live with more intention, this episode is packed with uplifting wisdom and real-world tools for creating your most fulfilling chapter yet.Bio:Lisa Haynes is a retired Chief Financial Officer turned Retirement Coach, author, and speaker helping professionals redefine life after full-time work. After more than three decades in corporate America—including ten years as a CFO—Lisa stepped away from the C-suite to empower others to build purpose-driven, fulfilling retirements.She’s the founder and CEO of Haynes Executive Solutions, where she blends financial consulting with certified executive and retirement coaching. Lisa is also the author of Retired and Killin' It: The Ultimate Retirement Plan, a practical and inspiring guide based on her signature Killin' It formula, which highlights eight essential elements of a meaningful retirement.Lisa speaks to audiences about life transitions, legacy, reinvention, and the often-overlooked emotional side of retirement. Whether on stage or in her coaching practice, she brings clarity, humor, and a deep belief that retirement shouldn't be boring—it should be your best chapter yet.Connect with Lisa:Email: [email protected]: https://haynesexec.com/Website: https://www.retiredandkillinit.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/retiredandkillinitInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/retirednkillinit/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-j-haynes-cpa-mba/Books mentioned:Retired and Killin' It: The Ultimate Retirement Plan by Lisa J Haynes -https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9798987526125https://amzn.to/3JDzQ5C Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781538777800https://amzn.to/4a8kp0rPlaying Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead by Tara Mohr - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781592409600https://amzn.to/3KllTKo

In this powerful episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with leadership coach, speaker, and author Marianne Renner to explore how the stories we tell ourselves can hold us back—and how to break free from them. Marianne shares her deeply personal journey through decades of depression and addiction, and how changing her inner dialogue became the catalyst for healing, transformation, and success in every area of her life.Drawing from her new book Self-Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back...And How to Overcome Them, Marianne and Desiree unpack some of the most common self-limiting beliefs, like “I’m not enough,” “It’s too late,” or “I don’t belong”—and reveal how shifting your self-talk can change your entire trajectory. They also discuss practical tools for rewiring your mindset, building confidence, and leading yourself through periods of self-doubt and uncertainty.Whether you’re a leader feeling stuck, a professional navigating change, or simply someone ready to step into a more empowered version of yourself, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable wisdom to help you rewrite your internal narrative and take the next right step forward.Bio:Marianne Renner is a highly sought-after leadership coach and keynote speaker who has helped thousands of leaders remove self-imposed barriers and unleash their greatest potential.In her new book, Self-Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back…And How to Overcome Them, she shares the lessons she learned during a decades-long battle with depression and addiction to help growth-minded leaders who feel stuck.Marianne is a TEDx speaker whose previous books include the Chaos to Clarity Success Journal and Stop Thinking Like an Employee.From workaholism to alcoholism, Marianne tried everything to make the bad feelings go away. After decades of debilitating depression and addiction, she finally found the answer: changing her self-talk. Not only did the depression lift, but she saw every other outcome of her life transform, including her career, relationships and financial stability.Self-Talk is an inspiring revelation of ten common stories people tell themselves that sabotage their best efforts for success. The book is packed full of practical action steps to help you get unstuck and start moving forward in any area of your professional or personal life.Whether you’re seeking more confidence, greater purpose, or elevated success, Self-Talk will help you change the stories inside your head, break free from what holds you back, and regain control of your journey.With a Master’s Degree in Integrated Marketing Communications, Marianne has spent years studying human behavior and the “WHY” behind decisions people make.Connect with Marianne:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResources:https://mariannerenner.com/selftalkTEDx TalkBooks mentioned:Self Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself that Hold You Back…And How to Overcome Them https://amzn.to/3Vb6crbThe Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achorhttps://amzn.to/4ifujztPodcasts mentioned:The Oprah PodcastOprah’s Super Soul

In this eye-opening episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Taryn Voget, founder of Everyday Genius and creator of The Genius Lab, for a powerful conversation about unlocking the unique brilliance that lives within all of us. Drawing from her work with high-performing leaders, founders, and creatives (including those at SpaceX and The Gates Foundation), Taryn shares how identifying your personal genius isn’t about adding more hustle—it’s about understanding the subconscious patterns behind your success.Together, Taryn and Desiree explore the difference between talent and genius, why burnout often signals a misalignment with your deeper gifts, and how tuning into your innate brilliance can radically shift your career, relationships, and well-being. The conversation also touches on the intersection of intuition and logic, how to identify your core strengths, and why so many driven individuals feel stuck—even when things look successful on the outside. Taryn offers a fresh framework for accessing deeper clarity, refining your purpose, and making impactful decisions that are true to who you are.Whether you're a founder, creator, executive, or simply someone searching for more meaning in your work, this episode will leave you inspired to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the genius that’s already within you.Bio:Taryn Voget is the founder of Everyday Genius and creator of The Genius Lab, where she helps visionary leaders, founders, and creatives uncover the unique genius behind their success — and use it to create extraordinary results. A longtime executive consultant with a background in neuroscience, transformation, and intuitive healing, Taryn’s work blends sharp business strategy with deep inner insight. Her process reveals the subconscious patterns that drive brilliance, so clients can refine their craft, unlock next-level performance, and build what they’re truly here to build. She’s worked with leaders from SpaceX, The Gates Foundation, and VC-backed startups, and shares her insights on The Everyday Genius Show on YouTube.Connect with Taryn:Email: [email protected]: www.everydaygenius.tvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/tarynvogetInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarynvoget/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarynvoget/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tarynvogetSubstack: https://tarynvoget.substack.com/TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@tarynvoget

In this soul-nourishing episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with bestselling author and intuitive healer Inna Segal for a powerful conversation about emotional healing, ancestral patterns, and the wisdom of the body. Inna shares her personal journey—from growing up as an immigrant facing deep emotional and physical challenges to experiencing a spiritual awakening that led her to become a global teacher and healer.Together, they explore how unresolved trauma, generational pain, and childhood experiences can show up as physical symptoms, and why tuning into the body’s messages is a vital step in healing. Inna offers compassionate insights on working with the inner child, understanding emotional roots of illness, and reconnecting with your intuition.Drawing from her bestselling book The Secret Language of Your Body, Inna shares practical guidance for decoding symptoms and releasing patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you're struggling with chronic symptoms, seeking clarity around old emotional wounds, or simply curious about energy healing, this conversation offers hope, compassion, and tangible tools for transformation. It’s a beautiful reminder that healing is not about fixing yourself—it's about reconnecting with who you truly are.Bio:Inna Segal is a bestselling author, intuitive healer, and creator of The Secret Language of Your Body. Her healing journey began after immigrating from Belarus to Australia as a child, navigating emotional isolation and chronic health issues. A profound spiritual awakening in her early 20s set her on a path to help others heal emotionally, physically, and energetically.Over the past 25 years, Inna has worked with clients around the world—including healthcare professionals and trauma survivors—and led international trainings on emotional wellness, ancestral healing, and spiritual development. She has authored several books and created seven healing card decks, blending intuitive insight with years of study in Anthroposophy and the teachings of Rudolf Steiner.Through her courses and teachings, Inna helps people uncover the root causes of pain and reconnect with their inner wisdom. Her work has been featured on CNN, FOX, ABC Radio, and Woman’s Day, and continues to impact thousands seeking transformation through mind-body healing.Connect with Inna:WebsiteFacebookInstagramResources:MasterclassSecretBooks mentioned:The Secret Language of Your Body by Inna Segal - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/3Jkhoz5 Understanding Modern Spirituality by Inna Segal - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/4hjTobWThe works of  Rudolf Steiner Podcasts mentioned:The Diary of a CEO——— If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Estelle Gibson—CPA, TED speaker, bestselling author, and holistic financial coach—for a powerful conversation about breaking free from financial fear and rewriting your money story. With over 40 years of experience in finance and two bestselling books under her belt, Estelle shares how money challenges are often less about math and more about mindset.Together, Desiree and Estelle explore the roots of financial dependency, how limiting beliefs keep us stuck in cycles of avoidance or overspending, and why so many women feel shame or confusion when it comes to managing money. Estelle talks about her own journey—from being a financially successful accountant who found herself in a financial dependency situation, to becoming a sought-after coach helping others reclaim their financial independence.She introduces the concept of “money stories” and how we can start to identify and reframe the narratives we’ve absorbed from our upbringing, relationships, and culture. The conversation also touches on the emotional side of money, the importance of financial literacy at any stage of life, and why aligning your finances with your values is a key step toward lasting empowerment.Whether you're in debt, financially independent, or just starting to face your money habits with fresh eyes, Estelle’s compassionate and practical approach offers tools and encouragement to take control—without shame or blame.Bio:Estelle Gibson is a CPA, TED Speaker, International Best Selling Author, and Holistic Financial Coach. With over 40 years of professional experience in finance, purchasing, and management, she has worked with individuals and companies, ranging from small, privately owned businesses to Fortune 500 corporations, across diverse industries.With over 20 years of experience as a Holistic Financial Coach, she supports her clients in learning how to manage their money in simple, personalized ways, and helps them break free from limiting beliefs and fears that prevent them from taking action, enabling them to achieve their goals and dreams.In 2019, she delivered a TED talk on Financial Dependency, and in 2023, with over 2.3 million views, it was rated by Reuters® as one of the top TED talks on Personal Finance. In 2021 she authored her first book, "Rewrite Your Money Story Guided Journal" and in 2024 her second book "Poor by Choice? Overcome the Lies and Create a New Financial Truth" became a #1 Best Seller.Connect with Estelle:WebsiteFacebookLinkedInYouTubeResources:https://www.ted.com/talks/estelle_gibson_the_true_cost_of_financial_dependencehttps://www.journey-to-freedom.com/Books mentioned:Poor by Choice?: Overcome the Lies and Create a New Financial Truth by Estelle GibsonRewrite Your Money Story Journal by Estelle GibsonTapping Into Wealth: How Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Can Help You Clear the Path to Making More Money by Margaret M. Lynch (Author), Daylle Deanna Schwartz M.S. (Author), Nick Ortner (Foreword) - Bookshop.orghttps://amzn.to/4eXDcMvThink and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century (Think and Grow Rich Series) by Napoleon Hill (Author), Arthur R. Pell (Contributor) - Bookshop.org https://amzn.to/44QP1iVPodcasts mentioned:The Mel Robbins PodcastSuze Orman’s Women & Money PodcastThe Diary of a CEO———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Are you stuck in a job that no longer fits your life—or your dreams? In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Shannon Russell, career transition and business coach, speaker, and author of Start Your Second Act. Shannon shares her inspiring journey from a successful 16-year career as a television producer to becoming a multi-business owner, coach, and advocate for women ready to rewrite their professional stories.Shannon opens up about the pivotal moment that led her to walk away from her dream career in television to prioritize family and freedom. She offers real-world advice on how to make a career shift—without blowing up your life. From buying a franchise and building a top-performing business, to creating her own coaching company and podcast, Shannon reveals the lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped her (and now hundreds of others) navigate the leap from employee to entrepreneur.If you’ve been craving more meaning in your work or wondering whether it's “too late” to start over, this episode will remind you that you’re never stuck. You'll learn tips for a strategic exit plan, transfer your skills into a new venture, build confidence through research, and honor the life you want to lead. Shannon’s message is clear: you can pivot with purpose—and produce your best life, one intentional step at a time.Bio:Shannon Russell is a Career Transition and Business Coach empowering women to leave unfulfilling careers and build joyful, purpose-driven businesses. She is the Author of Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life, a Speaker, and Host of the Second Act Success Career Podcast.Through her company, Second Act Success®, Shannon shares her journey as a television executive turned business owner, coach, author, and mom with others. She works with women who are unhappy in their 9-5, as they pivot towards a "second act" by providing exit strategy guidance and support as they transition from employee to entrepreneur.Shannon began her career spending over 16 years as a Television Producer in New York City and Los Angeles, working for MTV, E!, Yahoo!, PopSugar, A&E, TLC, and more. She then made the leap to open her own business running a STEM education franchise, teaching children, so that she could be more present for her children. Now, as a certified Career/Business Coach, Shannon’s motto is "produce your best life,” and her mission is to motivate more women to make big moves in life.Connect with Shannon:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@secondactsuccessTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@secondactsuccessBooks mentioned:Start Your Second Act How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life by Shannon Russell - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9798992075403https://amzn.to/477X0ci The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780062315007 https://amzn.to/4qcjsdg Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780449214923https://amzn.to/3W2YNur Finish by John Acuff - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780525537311https://amzn.to/46RzQbpPodcasts mentioned:Second Act Success Podcast with Shannon Russell Resources:https://startyoursecondact.com

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Skye Waterson, ADHD strategist, business coach, and founder of Unconventional Organisation, for an insightful conversation on building a thriving business while living with ADHD. Diagnosed during her PhD studies, Skye discovered that traditional productivity advice didn’t work for her—and likely doesn’t work for most neurodiverse entrepreneurs. Instead of forcing herself into a mold that didn’t fit, she developed ADHD-friendly systems that are now helping hundreds of business owners and executives find focus, follow through, and scale without burnout.Skye shares her personal story and professional insights on why ADHD is both a challenge and a strength for entrepreneurs. She breaks down the science behind dopamine, time blindness, executive function, and explains how common struggles, like losing momentum, feeling overwhelmed, or self-sabotaging success, can be addressed with research-backed systems designed for how ADHD brains actually work. With clarity and compassion, she offers practical tips that stick, and the power of rewards before starting tasks—not just after.From learning how to brain-dump and prioritize, to navigating emotionally triggering tasks and preventing burnout through strategic fun and play, this episode is full of actionable strategies. Whether you're officially diagnosed, self-identifying, or just feeling out of sync with mainstream productivity advice, Skye's holistic and science-informed approach provides a refreshing path forward.If you’re an entrepreneur struggling to stay consistent or grow your business sustainably, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and equipped with tools that actually work—for your brain and your business.Bio:Skye Waterson is an ADHD strategist, business coach, and founder of Unconventional Organisation—a multi-six-figure business helping neurodiverse entrepreneurs and executives stay focused, follow through, scale sustainably, and get their time back.After being diagnosed with ADHD during her PhD, Skye realized that traditional productivity advice didn’t work for her brain. She turned to research and developed ADHD-friendly systems that helped her stay on track.Today, she has helped 800+ business owners and executives escape distraction loops, build consistency, and grow without burnout, using strategies designed for the way their brains actually work.Connect with Skye:Website: https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnconventionalOrganisationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unconventionalorganisation/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skye-waterson-026286204/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn5JGUn-oADCmPhaoN2_7DgResources:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19627998/DM Skye with the comment ‘Desiree’, and she'll send you the 2-minute Focus FormulaPodcasts mentioned:The ADHD Skills Lab with Skye Waterson - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-adhd-skills-lab/id1687000257Hacking Your ADHD with William Curb - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hacking-your-adhd/id1481135244

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Monica Kaufman—a seasoned financial professional and wealth empowerment coach—for a conversation that redefines what it really means to achieve financial freedom. Monica shares her personal and professional journey, including the pivotal shift from simply earning money to consciously building wealth and helping others do the same.Together, Desiree and Monica unpack the deeper emotional and psychological layers of money, exploring why knowledge alone isn’t enough and how lasting change comes from shifting your mindset around self-worth, scarcity, and control. Monica explains why traditional financial advice often falls short and how her work focuses on returning power to women—especially those who’ve been underserved by the financial industry.Monica offers practical, judgment-free strategies to help listeners start where they are, build confidence with money, and create systems that support long-term wealth. Whether you're trying to pay off debt, grow your savings, or break free from generational money patterns, Monica’s warm, relatable guidance will leave you feeling seen, supported, and ready to take the next step.This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to stop just surviving and start creating a life of intentional abundance—on their own terms.Bio:As a financial professional, I’ve watched many people struggle to achieve the financial freedom they crave. It’s not just about their income. Financial freedom requires a transition from earning money to building wealth. It’s not just about information; it’s also about empowerment that supports you as you live and sustain the changes necessary to reach your goals. Money is merely a set of tools anyone can master to build the life they want.I’ve walked through this process in my own life and understand the challenges. And I’ve had the privilege of helping people through this process. I've been doing this for many years at some of the biggest financial firms. I joined Harmony to build a program that returns power back to your hands.I am a mom of 2 adult sons and two rescue dogs.Connect with Monica:Email: [email protected]: https://www.harmonywealthacademy.com/ www.harmonyam.comResources:https://harmonywealthacademy.com/#coursesBooks mentioned:Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth by T. Harv Eker (Author) -https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9780060763282 https://amzn.to/4mL8dXiMillionaire Mindset: The Simple Habits And Thinking Behind Money, Wealth, and Success by Paul J. Stanley (Author) -https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781720821465 https://amzn.to/3SzZ5qYThe Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy by Thomas J. Stanley (Author), William D. Danko (Author) - https://bookshop.org/a/116550/9781589795471https://amzn.to/3HnxHtQ

In this uplifting and informative episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with board-certified functional health coach and author Anu Simh to talk about gut health, sustainable weight loss, and what it really means to “flourish from within.” As the founder of 9 Arms of Wellness, Anu has helped hundreds of busy women lose weight, reclaim their energy, and feel better in their bodies—without counting calories or relying on fad diets.Anu shares her personal wellness journey, including the pivotal moment that inspired her to shift careers and dive deep into functional medicine and nutrition. With compassion and clarity, she explains why gut health is the foundation of long-term wellness and how your microbiome influences everything from mood and metabolism to immunity and inflammation. You’ll learn why weight gain isn’t just about willpower, how stress impacts digestion, and why your gut, sleep habits, and mindset all play a role in your ability to lose and maintain weight.Anu offers practical tips for making healthy meals simple and enjoyable, even for busy professionals and moms. She opens up about her work helping women get off medications for lifestyle-related conditions and her motivation behind writing her new book, Flourish From Within, which includes over 50 gut-friendly, plant-based recipes.If you’re tired of chasing short-term fixes and want a more holistic, sustainable approach to your health, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and real-world strategies to support your well-being from the inside out.Bio:ANU SIMH is a board-certified functional health coach and the founder of 9 Arms of Wellness. She specializes in helping busy women lose weight and maintain their goal weight by focusing on gut health. Her personalized and unique philosophy has successfully guided hundreds of women in achieving and maintaining their goals. Anu is now training other coaches in her methodology.Based in La Jolla, California, Anu sees clients nationwide virtually. Her passion lies in the microbiome; she is also a skilled plant-based chef. Her new book, Flourish From Within, highlights the significance of gut health for overall well-being and features over 50 plant-based recipes. Anu's guiding principle is to help people get off medications for lifestyle diseases through diet and lifestyle changes.Connect with Anu:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeTikTokBooks mentioned:Flourish from Within: Feed Your Gut for Lifelong Health by Anu Simh - Amazon The Good Gut Taking Control of Your Weight, Your Mood, and Your Long-term Health by Justin Sonnenburg, Erica Sonnenburg - Bookshop.orgAmazonAtomic Habits by James Clear - Bookshop.orgAmazonThe Circadian Code Lose Weight, Supercharge Your Energy, and Transform Your Health from Morning to Midnight: Longevity Book by Satchin Panda PhD - Bookshop.orgAmazonPodcasts mentioned: Bad Medicine Podcast with Anu Simh & Nicholas Canelo Nutrition Made Simple with Nicole Aucoin———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this heartfelt episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Lynn Banis, executive coach, grief guide, and founder of Widows Rising Together, to explore the deeply personal and transformative journey of grief—and the life that can emerge on the other side of loss. After losing her mother, brother, and husband in a short span of time, Dr. Lynn found herself navigating unimaginable sorrow. But rather than retreat, she answered a powerful inner call to help other women rebuild their lives after profound change, whether through death, divorce, identity loss, or trauma.Dr. Lynn shares how grief touches every part of our lives, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual, and why true healing must go beyond just surviving. With honesty and compassion, she discusses the importance of community and how our culture’s avoidance of death often leaves people feeling isolated in their pain. She also explains the real difference between getting “over it” and moving forward while honoring the past.This episode offers not only comfort, but also practical insights—like how to show up for someone in grief, why it’s okay (and necessary) to invest in your healing, and how small steps can lead to a life filled with renewed purpose. Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or want to better support someone who has, this conversation is filled with wisdom, warmth, and hope.Bio:Dr. Lynn Banis’s life was turned upside down within just three years. She lost her mother, her younger brother, and her husband—each loss compounding the grief and leaving her feeling as though the ground had disappeared beneath her. Grief, she discovered, isn’t just about sadness—it’s profoundly disorienting. Each day felt like walking through a fog, uncertain if she’d ever find clarity again.Despite her background as a psychologist and executive coach, nothing could have prepared her for the depth of the emotional pain she experienced. For years, she had guided others through their darkest moments, but now she was the one who needed a lifeline. Through deep self-reflection, Dr. Banis examined the experiences that followed her losses and began uncovering the lessons within them. She identified and replaced limiting beliefs, rewired her mindset, and committed to a transformation process using the tools she had once offered others. In doing so, she found her way out of the fog and into a powerful new chapter. Dr. Banis realized that everything she had endured—her caregiving journey, the profound grief, the years of professional training—had uniquely prepared her to help others rebuild their lives. Today, Dr. Banis works with individuals and groups, guiding widows through their own paths of reinvention. Her mission isn’t about erasing grief—it’s about honoring it, learning from it, and using it as the foundation for a life that feels truly worth living. Her work has become her passion and purpose: helping others transform loss into lasting empowerment.Connect with Dr. Banis:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInBooks mentioned:Healthy Grief: Normalizing and Navigating Loss in a Culture of Toxic Positivity by Dr. Karen Kramer - Bookshop.orgAmazon

In this inspiring episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes executive coach and leadership expert Jennifer Sherman, founder of Envision Leadership Consulting. With over 20 years of experience coaching thousands of leaders worldwide, Jennifer shares invaluable insights into how mindset, emotional intelligence, and intentional self-leadership can transform your career and your life.Jennifer opens up about her non-linear journey. She explains how listening to her inner voice (and using life’s curveballs as catalysts for change) led her to discover her true calling. Throughout the conversation, she and Desiree dive into powerful topics including the importance of rewiring our inner narratives, recognizing physical cues of self-doubt, and how to consciously shift our mindset to create new possibilities.Jennifer also offers practical advice for women looking to position themselves for leadership roles, break free from limiting beliefs, and support each other rather than compete. She addresses the often-overlooked emotional impact of layoffs, the grieving process that can follow, and how to strategically and confidently navigate the next chapter.Whether you're a seasoned executive or someone simply seeking more purpose in your professional path, this episode is filled with empowering tools, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.Bio:Jennifer Sherman has spent over 20 years expanding the capabilities of leaders and executives, earning the trust of top executives who rely on her for transformative insights into their leadership impact. A certified executive coach, instructional designer, and facilitator, she has coached and trained thousands of leaders worldwide—from Fortune 100 companies to high-performing smaller firms. Driven by a passion for authentic leadership, Jennifer helps foster workplaces where people and performance thrive and leaders leave a lasting, positive legacy.Over the years, she has built up an arsenal of leadership and people management tools and diagnostics that bring true value to her clients, ranging from mid-level to C-suite to business owners, across a multitude of industries (finance, manufacturing, media, fashion, pharmaceuticals, engineering, sports, consumer products, etc.)In her work, she discovered that it doesn't matter how successful people are; we all have self-doubt, blind spots, communication challenges, and moments when we struggle to regulate ourselves effectively. Her mission is to promote a more human approach to leadership by building more self-aware, emotionally intelligent leaders with the skills to grow and empower others.Connect with Jennifer:EmailWebsiteLinkedInInstagramResourcesBooks mentioned:Dare to Lead by Brené Brown - BookshopAmazonThe Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work by Ludmila N. Praslova - BookshopAmazonThink Again by  Adam Grant - BookshopAmazonPodcasts mentioned:Unlocking Us with Brene BrownThe Mel Robbins PodcastHBR IdeaCast———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are experiencing any medical conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

In this powerful and moving episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Kanika Vasudeva, an Energy and Consciousness Coach and Akashic Records reader, to explore the transformative journey that began with the unimaginable loss of her daughter. Kanika shares how this devastating event became the doorway to discovering energy healing, soul contracts, and the Akashic Records—a spiritual "cloud storage" of every soul’s journey.Together, they dive into how past-life patterns, generational trauma, and karmic imprints shape the way we parent, love, and relate—not just to our children, but to ourselves. Kanika explains how understanding your child’s soul blueprint and your own emotional wounds can unlock a more connected, conscious, and peaceful parenting experience. Whether you’re navigating co-parenting challenges, struggling with emotional triggers, or simply curious about your spiritual path as a parent, this conversation offers profound insights and practical healing tools.You’ll also hear about Kanika’s meditations, her free resource on soul contracts in parenting, and how tuning into the Akashic Records can help you break cycles and raise empowered children—without carrying the weight of the past.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to turn pain into purpose, deepen their spiritual awareness, and parent from a place of unconditional love.Bio:Kanika Vasudeva is an Energy and Consciousness Coach and Akashic Records reader who helps parents heal emotional wounds, navigate co-parenting challenges, and connect with their children's soul blueprint to raise empowered, resilient beings.After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Kanika turned to energy healing and the Akashic Records—uncovering the hidden patterns, karmic imprints, and generational cycles that shape how we parent and relate.Today, she guides parents to break free from inherited trauma, find peace amid legal or emotional conflict, and raise children who feel deeply seen, safe, and supported.Connect with Kanika:Email: [email protected]: https://artoflifecenter.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kanikaenergycoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kanikaenergycoach/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kanikaenergycoachAkashic Records Reading and Healing: https://artoflifecenter.com/reading/Resources:https://artoflifecenter.com/guided-meditations-conscious-parentingArt of Life Guided Meditations: https://artoflifecenter.com/guided meditationsPodcasts mentioned:Art of Life - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/art-of-life-podcast-kanika-energy-coach/id1691873468Art of Life Guided Meditations -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/art-of-life-guided-meditations/id1795295956

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with soulful leader, executive awareness coach, and former national dance champion Maren Oslac for a deeply inspiring conversation about what it truly means to live and lead from the inside out.Maren shares her personal journey of transformation—from outward success as a multi-business entrepreneur and competitive dancer to discovering a deeper calling rooted in inner fulfillment, spiritual alignment, and meaningful impact. She opens up about the moment she realized she was “snacking on life” but still feeling unsatisfied—and how bringing her inner and outer worlds together changed everything.Together, Desiree and Maren explore:*Why hustle culture is broken—and what lies beyond it*How high-achievers can redefine success to include soulfulness, not just checkboxes*What it means to be in "flow" with your life and work (and how to get there)*The power of creating space in our lives to reconnect with our "why"*Simple daily practices for aligning with your purpose*Why soulful leadership matters now more than ever—and how everyone is a leaderWhether you're a driven entrepreneur, a thoughtful leader, or someone simply searching for “something more,” this episode offers wisdom, warmth, and a practical roadmap for aligning with your truest self.Bio:Maren is a business evolver with a passion for excellence and a drive to help successful leaders wake up and up-level their lives and their businesses.As co-founder of the Soulful Leader Project and co-host of the Soulful Leader Podcast, she helps leaders leave behind the ‘strive, push, make-it-happen’ paradigm and embrace a future filled with meaning, knowing and grace.After running multiple successful and influential businesses, and competing and teaching at the top levels of several dance disciplines, Maren finally stopped chasing the elusive ‘enough’ myth and began living the life that had been calling her. It was magical.A lifetime of dedicated inner work led her to that moment and she realized that she was meant to share all she’s learned to give others a shortcut.Today, as a Speaker, Executive Awareness Coach & Flow Consultant, Maren works with impactful leaders who wonder, “is this it?” and are ready to step into the connected life that tugs at their soul.Connect with Maren:WebsiteWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeResources:BlogTSLPWikipediaBooks mentioned: The Diamond Cutter by Geshe Michael Roach, Lama Christie McNally BookshopAmazon Measure What Matters by John Doerr, Larry Page  BookshopAmazonThe  Artist's Way by Julia Cameron BookshopAmazonCaravan of Remembering by Daniel GoodenoughAmazonClare W. Graves: His Life and His Work by Rainer Krumm (Author), Benedikt Parstorfer (Author)AmazonMastery Through Accomplishment by Hazrat Inayat Khan BookshopAmazonPodcast mentioned:The Soulful Leader Podcast with Stephanie Allen & Maren Oslac———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

In this energizing episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Dr. Christiane Schroeter—business and wellness coach, professor, bestselling author, and host of the Happy Healthy Hustle podcast—to talk about achieving big results through small, intentional actions. Christiane shares the story behind her signature “Petite Practice™” framework, a simple yet powerful method that helps entrepreneurs and professionals make consistent progress without burning out. Drawing from her own journey as a professor, coach, and multi-passionate entrepreneur, Christiane explains how embracing small steps can build confidence, drive long-term success, and lead to a more balanced life.Together, Desiree and Christiane dive into the importance of mindset, consistency, and setting realistic goals—especially for women juggling multiple roles. They explore how to stop comparing yourself to others, how to confidently say “no” without guilt, and why creating personal boundaries is essential for sustainable growth. Christiane also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her two bestselling books, How to Master Your Goals and Discover Your Superpower, both designed to turn personal growth into a joyful and actionable journey. Whether you're building a business, navigating burnout, or just trying to stay aligned with your purpose, this episode offers practical wisdom and gentle encouragement to help you move forward—one Petite Practice at a time.Bio:Dr. Christiane Schroeter is a Business & Wellness Coach, Professor, and Bestselling Author who helps entrepreneurs achieve big results through small, strategic actions.With a Ph.D. in Health Economics, she is a Professor of Marketing, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at a top-ranked U.S. university, earning national and international recognition for her work. As the host of the Top 1% globally ranked Happy Healthy Hustle Podcast, she delivers high-performance strategies for productivity, business growth, and well-being.She has built a thriving community on Instagram and YouTube, where she shares practical, results-driven insights for professionals seeking sustainable success.Her first book, How to Master Your Goals, debuted as an Amazon #1 New Release in Adult Education, and she is now launching her highly anticipated second book, Discover Your Superpower. A sought-after keynote speaker, Christiane is known for her dynamic, no-fluff approach to business and success. Her Petite Practice™ framework empowers entrepreneurs to work smarter, scale faster, and lead with confidence without burnout.Connect with Christiane:Email:  [email protected]: https://doctorchristiane.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Doctor.Christiane/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.christianeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianeschroeter/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@doctor.christianeResource:https://hellohappynest.thrivecart.com/pitching-podcast-video/?coupon=PODCASTMOMPodcasts mentioned:Happy Healthy Hustle with Dr. Christiane Schroeter - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-healthy-hustle/id1678822774

In this encouraging episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes back returning guest Amber Daughn—event strategist, business consultant, and founder of Women On Stage Collective—for an inspiring deep dive into women’s visibility, public speaking, and claiming your voice. Amber shares the journey behind her latest passion project, the Women On Stage Collective, a multi-tier speaker development program designed to help women overcome the inner and outer barriers to taking the stage. From tackling perfectionism and imposter syndrome to navigating the practical challenges of booking speaking engagements, Amber opens up about why so many capable, experienced women hold themselves back—and how to start changing that.Together, Desiree and Amber explore why women often hesitate to claim the title of “speaker” and how a mindset shift can change everything. They discuss the importance of taking imperfect action, redefining confidence, and recognizing that lived experiences can become powerful messages worth sharing. Amber offers valuable tips for crafting your signature talk, connecting with the right audience, and building momentum through community. She also shares how the Women On Stage Collective provides a clear, supportive path from self-doubt to stage presence.Whether you're brand new to public speaking or already stepping into the spotlight, this conversation delivers actionable advice, heartfelt encouragement, and a reminder that your voice truly matters. If you’ve ever felt a pull to share your story—but didn’t know where to start—this episode is your gentle push forward.Bio:I’m Amber Daughn, an event strategist, business consultant, and speaker with a passion for bringing people together for transformational experiences. As the founder of New Daughn Events & New Daughn Management, I specialize in high-impact event production, business operations, and mastermind facilitation, helping entrepreneurs and thought leaders scale their impact. I’m also the creator of Women On Stage Collective (WOSC), a speaker training initiative designed to amplify women’s voices and get more women confidently stepping onto the stage. A lifelong digital nomad, I’ve built my business while traveling the world, leading teams, and creating spaces where collaboration, strategy, and community thrive.Connect with Amber:Email: [email protected]: womenonstagecollective.comFacebook: Women on Stage Collective -  https://www.facebook.com/groups/635381898853298Resources:Fall 2025 Stagecraft Mastery Cohort Launch - https://womenonstagecollective.com/stagecraft-mastery/Books mentioned:The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance-What Women Should Know by Katty Kay (Author), Claire Shipman (Author) - https://amzn.to/42MWZskPresence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy - https://amzn.to/42TGDhE———Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this inspiring episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes award-winning writer, USC screenwriting professor, and founder of Storytelling Lab, Bonnie Garvin, for an honest and uplifting conversation about creativity, reinvention, and owning your voice—on the page and in life.Bonnie shares her unexpected journey into writing, sparked by a happy accident that led her to an advanced playwriting class she hadn’t even meant to take. What followed was a career filled with accolades, teaching, storytelling, and even painting—each a chapter in her ever-evolving creative life. She opens up about how to navigate the highs and lows of the writing life, why expectations can sabotage joy, and how leaning into the process, rather than the outcome, is the true key to fulfillment.Together, Desiree and Bonnie explore what it means to make space for yourself, especially as a woman juggling roles and responsibilities, and why creative expression is not only healing but essential. Bonnie also discusses her unique Storytelling Lab and how it's helped countless people—from first-time writers to aspiring artists—rediscover their voice and confidence through creative exploration.If you’ve ever felt the pull to create but didn’t know where to begin, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or someone just looking to reconnect with your creative spark, Bonnie’s down-to-earth wisdom will encourage you to take that first step—no expectations required.Bio:I'm an award-winning writer, producer, USC screenwriting professor, painter, and creator of Storytelling Lab, a six-person, six-week international Zoom class designed to reconnect you with your creative spirit.I fell into writing, quite literally. I never had so much as a fantasy about it. I was pushing 30, married, and in therapy, trying to figure out if I wanted to have a baby. But if I didn't, what would I do with my life? My therapist suggested going back to university and taking classes that sounded interesting. I signed up for a class that sounded like it had to do with journalism. It was an advanced playwriting class. The other eleven students had written plays, won awards, etc. When class ended, I approached the Professor and said I wouldn't return next week. But she convinced me to stay, and I did it because I'm a people pleaser. Our assignment was to write a scene. I had no idea what a scene entailed. I figured I know people, and I know how people talk, so I'll give it a try. The play, once finished, became a finalist for the most prestigious playwriting festival in the U.S. My husband and I lived in Michigan. I gave up my job, convinced my husband to give up his law practice, and set off for New York so I could pursue a career as a writer. Over the last thirty years, I've continually invented and reinvented myself, creating a more diverse and multifaceted career than I could've ever imagined back then.Connect with Bonnie:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInSubstack NewsletterBooks mentioned:Just Kids: A National Book Award Winner by Patti Smith (Author)Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood (Pantheon Graphic Library) by Marjane Satrapi (Author)Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover (Author)Ambiguous Loss: Learning to Live with Unresolved Grief 1st Edition, by Pauline Boss (Author)How to Kill Your Family: A Novel by Bella Mackie (Author)———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this powerful and compassionate episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Saoirse Nash, a Certified Health Coach, Yoga Instructor, and Director at Live UTI Free, to talk about the often-overlooked topic of chronic UTIs and women's pelvic health. With honesty and empathy, Saoirse shares her personal health journey, from struggling with recurring infections and medical dismissal to becoming a fierce advocate for holistic, whole-person healing.Together, they unpack the many gaps in women's healthcare particularly in testing and treatment for UTIs and the damaging misconceptions that keep so many women silent and suffering. Saoirse speaks to the importance of trusting your body, advocating for yourself at the doctor’s office, and seeking care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being.You’ll hear practical tools for stress reduction, how breathwork and yoga support pelvic floor health, and why nervous system regulation is a critical (but often missing) piece of the healing puzzle. Plus, Saoirse shares resources, empowering phrases to use with your doctor, and advice for anyone navigating the frustrating maze of chronic illness.If you’ve ever felt dismissed, unheard, or simply confused about your health, this episode is a much-needed dose of clarity, comfort, and hope.Bio:Saoirse Nash is a Director (Ireland), content contributor and patient liaison at Live UTI Free Ltd. (LUF), a globally recognised women’s health research and education organisation. Saoirse also works as a health coach, massage therapist and yoga instructor at The Whole Health Coach, Ireland.As a content contributor and patient liaison for Live UTI Free Ltd., Saoirse’s work is focused on supporting women in accessing appropriate treatment and testing, particularly for pelvic and bladder health.Through her past and present health struggles, including a long-time chronic UTI, Saoirse has become incredibly passionate about helping people improve and maintain their health holistically. Recognizing the importance of an individualized and whole-person approach to health through diet, movement, and nervous system regulation, Saoirse combines nutrition, lifestyle, and fitness to help bring her own and her clients' bodies back into balance. A yoga instructor, certified health coach, and public educator for Live UTI Free, Saoirse loves to help people progress toward better health and answer any questions they may have to the best of her ability.Connect with Saoirse:EmailWebsiteInstagramInstagramLinkedInLive UTI Free InfoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/liveutifree/?hl=en(if you scroll down a little, you will see the downloadable resource)YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LiveUTIFreeBooks mentioned:Hormone Intelligence - Dr. Aviva RommIs This Normal - Dr. Jolene BrightonThe Body Keeps The Score - Dr. Bessel Van Der KolkWhen The Body Says No - Gabor MateYoga Poses:https://pocketyoga.com/pose/ Happy baby pose, Child's pose, Garland (yogi squat), Butterfly pose

In this insightful and deeply compassionate episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Dr. Karoline Fischer—a Certified RTT Hypnotherapist and Medical Doctor—for a conversation that explores the profound impact of emotional healing and inner child work. Karoline shares her personal journey from Austria to New York City, including how a life-changing win on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire helped her pursue her passions in both acting and healing. Today, she blends her medical background with Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) to help clients around the world uncover the subconscious patterns keeping them stuck.Desiree and Karoline dive into what RTT hypnotherapy really is (spoiler: it’s nothing like what you’ve seen in movies!) and how it works to gently surface and transform limiting beliefs, past trauma, and unresolved emotions. They explore how childhood experiences shape adult behaviors, and why giving your “inner child” space to express unspoken thoughts can be a powerful catalyst for healing. Karoline offers practical grounding tools and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the body as a gateway to clarity, emotional release, and authentic growth.This episode is full of heart and practical wisdom. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship patterns, or simply seeking deeper self-awareness, Karoline’s approach offers a compassionate path toward lasting change. Tune in for a beautiful reminder that healing is always possible—and that you're more powerful than you think.Bio:Dr. Fischer is fueled by a deep passion for healing. She wholeheartedly believes in the transformative power of healing and dedicates herself to guiding others on their healing paths through RTT Hypnotherapy and Emotional Healing practices. In her sessions, she integrates Inner Child work, recognizing its profound ability to heal our past selves and impact our present and future. It's a process of allowing the younger versions of ourselves to voice the words they were once silenced from expressing, fostering profound healing and growth.As a certified RTT Hypnotherapist and Medical Doctor, she now specializes in RTT Hypnotherapy and Emotional Healing, offering my services virtually across the globe. She finds immense fulfillment in her work, witnessing firsthand the positive changes it brings to people's lives.Originally from Austria, she followed her dreams to New York City after a fortuitous win on the Austrian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. This journey, coupled with her personal experiences of overcoming trauma and neglect, deeply informs her practice and fuels her commitment to helping others find healing and transformation through hypnotherapy.She is also knowledgeable in Astrology, modern Spirituality, and Human Design, and integrates that in her work.Connect with Karoline:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInResources:http://www.whyhypnotherapy.com/Books mentioned:The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart TolleYouTube Channel:Tyler Henry

In this inspiring episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Neena Pandey—serial entrepreneur, Forbes author, speaker, and business coach—to unpack the real story behind building multiple businesses from scratch, navigating failure, and finding purpose in the process.Neena shares her path from growing up in India to becoming a marketing executive in Silicon Valley—all without a tech background—and how that experience eventually fueled her passion for entrepreneurship. From launching one of the fastest-growing education franchises in North America to founding socially conscious lifestyle brands like String Code and Indie Roots, Neena reveals the mindset, resilience, and strategy it takes to turn vision into reality.This episode is filled with empowering insights on:How to pivot through setbacks and failures (including losing a trademark and $250k in inventory!)The critical importance of personal branding in today's marketBuilding a business that aligns with your life goals—not just your income targetsMental health, mentorship, and why community matters for entrepreneursThe mission behind her “It’s Ok” movement and why women’s empowerment is central to everything she doesWhether you're a seasoned business owner or just dreaming of your first venture, Neena’s authenticity, transparency, and practical advice will leave you both inspired and better equipped to take your next step.Bio:Neena is a mother, wife, and multi-faceted businesswoman who was born and raised in India. She spent the majority of her career in the male-dominated tech industry as a marketing executive in Silicon Valley. She’s a serial entrepreneur, a Forbes author, speaker, start-up advisor and a business coach.String Code, her apparel brand, is driven by a spirited desire to empower women of all backgrounds, instilling in them the confidence to pursue their ideal life path and compete on an equitable platform. Women's empowerment and mental health are at the core of String Code's identity. The brand offers inclusive sizing and flattering silhouettes that complement and accentuate every body type. String Code also initiated the “It’s Ok” project, an awareness community and digital campaign to help support anyone struggling in their everyday lives. “It’s Ok” aims to help individuals regain the confidence and hope they need to thrive.Like String Code, Indie Roots is guided by social consciousness and sustainability. Indie Roots is an artisan collective that curates unique products directly from artists to consumers. With a range of furnishings, home decor, and lifestyle accessories, Indie Roots aims to inspire appreciation for thoughtfully, handcrafted products.Connect with Neena:Email: email_addressWebsite: https://thestringcode.com/Website:  https://neenapandey.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeenaPandeyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/Thestringcode/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamneenapandey/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenapandey/Coupon code for The String Code: Desiree20Books mentioned:The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers―Straight Talk on the Challenges of Entrepreneurship by Ben Horowitz (Author) - https://amzn.to/3IBOsSt

In this deeply affirming episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes intuitive guide, coach, and spiritual mentor Michelle Galoob for a conversation that blends personal transformation with spiritual empowerment. Michelle opens up about her powerful journey—from reaching a low point in her life to discovering the guidance of spirit guides and the Akashic Records. With warmth and humility, she shares how learning to tune into her intuition helped her find clarity, overcome anxiety, and align with her higher self.Desiree and Michelle explore practical tools for connecting with inner wisdom, including naming your ego, recognizing intuitive "downloads," and grounding techniques that invite spiritual insight into daily life. Michelle also offers actionable steps to build a relationship with your spirit guides, including how to ask for guidance, recognize signs, and interpret yes/no messages through intuitive journaling.They also demystify the Akashic Records—describing them as a spiritual “cloud” that holds the blueprint of your soul’s journey—and explain how accessing them can help you uncover and release patterns that may be blocking growth or abundance.This episode is a beautiful reminder that you're never alone, and that support is always available—if you're open to asking for it. Whether you're new to spirituality or seeking to deepen your intuitive connection, Michelle offers grounded wisdom and relatable tips to help you navigate life with greater ease, clarity, and trust.Bio:Michelle Galoob is an intuitive guide, coach, and spiritual mentor with a passion for helping individuals reconnect with their higher selves. Her journey began with a life-changing encounter that awakened her hidden intuitive gifts and led her to embrace the universe's guidance. Transitioning from a logic-driven perspective to one that fully embraces intuition, Michelle has cultivated a deep understanding of spiritual connection and the transformative power it holds.Through private readings, workshops, and her signature programs, Michelle empowers clients to heal from past traumas, trust their inner wisdom, and make purposeful decisions with clarity and confidence. Her approach combines practical tools with profound spiritual insights.Michelle’s expertise includes developing intuition, communicating with spirit guides, accessing the Akashic Records, and recognizing signs from the universe. Her relatable storytelling and actionable advice ensure that every conversation leaves the audience with valuable tools for personal and professional growth.Connect with Michelle:EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramResource:Receive a 1-hour reading at an introductory rate of $250 for a first-time reading (instead of the normal $320 rate). Book here Books mentioned:Many Lives, Many Masters: The True Story of a Prominent Psychiatrist, His Young Patient, and the Past-Life Therapy That Changed Both Their Lives by Brian L. WeissOnly Love Is Real: A Story of Soulmates Reunited by Brian Weiss MDPodcasts mentioned:The Michelle Chalfant Show

In this heartwarming and practical episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Cristie Cerniglia, founder of Relationships With A Map and certified Laura Doyle relationship coach, to explore how we can transform our marriages and partnerships by focusing on ourselves first. Cristie shares her personal story of going from heartbreak and fear after witnessing her parents’ divorce to building a thriving 30-year marriage of her own, even through difficult seasons.Cristie introduces the six intimacy skills she now teaches to help women create happier, more connected relationships — starting with self-care, relinquishing control, and embracing respect. She explains how taking responsibility for our own happiness, letting go of the need to manage everything, and learning to receive graciously can reignite the joy and partnership in our homes. Cristie also dives into the power of gratitude and vulnerability, showing how these practices can shift the entire dynamic of a marriage from resentment and frustration to teamwork and intimacy.Throughout the conversation, Cristie offers down-to-earth tips on communicating with your partner, recognizing hidden patterns that sabotage connection, and creating a positive, joyful tone in your household. You’ll hear practical examples of how to apply these skills, plus encouraging reminders that change really does start with you.Whether your relationship feels a little stale or is on the brink of collapse, Cristie’s warm and empowering message will remind you that there is always hope — and that by making small, intentional shifts, you can start building the marriage you truly want.Bio:Cristie Cerniglia is a ridiculously happy wife after 30 years of marriage.  Mom of 4 and Kiki to 3, she is passionate about helping women rewind their relationships back to the fun and romance of dating (with or without their husband's efforts)!Connect with Cristie:Email: [email protected]: https://relationshipswithamap.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/relationshipswithamap/?ref=share_group_linkInstagram: https://instagram.com/relationshipswithamapLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristiecerniglia/Books mentioned:The Empowered Wife, Updated and Expanded Edition: Six Surprising Secrets for Attracting Your Husband's Time, Attention, and Affection by Laura Doyle (Author) - https://amzn.to/44nn3efPodcasts mentioned: Empowered Wife Podcast by Laura Doyle - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-empowered-wife-podcast-marriage-help-with-laura-doyle/id1495820520———If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired & empowered!Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com.———This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. This episode may contain advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.