Redefine What's Possible Podcast

What happens when the thing you love the most starts to deteriorate and change for the worse? And what happens when you take responsibility for protecting it?This week’s guest was the youngest person to run a marathon on every continent and is currently serving as the first female CEO of Protect Our Winters. We are thrilled to welcome Erin Sprague to the podcast for a conversation about leadership when progress feels slow, transformational learning from failures, and staying curious about one of the biggest problems the world faces today: the climate crisis. One of the most important takeaways of this conversation is: you don’t have to be perfect in sustainability to step up and make a difference. Tackling the climate crisis isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, or having all the answers. It’s about recognizing that if you care about clean water, clean air, and stable food systems, you’re already a part of this story. This episode will leave you feeling inspired and energized to get involved in climate solutions so we can create a future that’s rooted in collaboration, action, and hope.Protect Our Winters helps turn the love, care, and passion for our planet into action by meeting people where they are at through community, education, and advocacy. If you’d like to learn more about POW and how you can get involved, visit: https://protectourwinters.org/ 

In this week’s episode of the Redefine What’s Possible Podcast, Shanon sits down with Russell Benaroya—an entrepreneur, leader, and endurance athlete—for a conversation about leadership, adventure, identity and what it means to truly redesign your life. Russell is the author of One Life to Lead: Business Success Through Better Life Design, and he is someone who has learned firsthand that success on the outside does not always answer the deeper question of “who are you becoming on the inside?” Shanon unpacks and explores Russell’s journey during the Marathon des Sables—a grueling 6-day, 155 mile race in the Sahara desert—and not just what happened in the Sahara, but what came before it. This episode is an inspiring story about becoming, the detours, the resets, and the choices that shape who we’re trying to be. If you have ever questioned what success is really costing you, or that there may be a more intentional way to live and lead, this episode is for you. If you'd like to learn more about Russell's story, you can keep up with him via LinkedIn.

At 16 years old, Billy Moore made a decision that altered countless lives, including his own. What followed was 20 years in prison, the weight of accountability, and a long journey toward understanding identity, forgiveness, and purpose.In this episode, Billy shares the “story before the story”, the loss of his father, the search for self and belonging, the influence of his environment, and the split-second confrontation that ended in tragedy. He speaks candidly about incarceration, the turning point sparked by his grandmother’s words, and the commitment he made to ensure his life would not be defined solely by his worst mistake.Now a site manager with Chicago CRED (Creating Real Economic Destiny), Billy works on the front lines of violence intervention, mentoring young men navigating the same pressures, trauma, and survival mindset that once shaped him. He discusses his approach to instilling hope in communities where systemic inequities, economic disinvestment, and fractured trust are predominant forces in the lives of the young men he serves. This conversation is about accountability without erasure, forgiveness without denial, hope without overpromising, and the belief that redemption is not a single moment, but a daily decision to grow, to serve, and to get one step closer to purpose.Learn More: Chicago CRED

Longevity isn’t something you chase with willpower—it’s something that can ensue when your community is designed for it.In this episode, Shanon sits down with Danny Buettner Jr., Executive Vice President of Blue Zones, to talk less about perfect personal habits and more about the real lever that changes outcomes: environment and culture. The original Blue Zones offered the learning. Blue Zones America is the application—partnering with cities, school districts, employers, and health systems to make the healthy choice the easy (and often unavoidable) choice.Danny breaks down what Blue Zones America looks like on the ground—how communities build momentum through people, places, and policy; why “readiness” matters; and how leaders can create measurable wellbeing shifts that don’t rely on Superman discipline. They also unpack the forces working against health in modern life, and why the next era of longevity will be won through community design, not individual guilt.If you’re a leader, parent, clinician, or anyone tired of feeling like health is one more thing to “try harder” at, this conversation offers a hopeful blueprint for building a life—and a city—where wellbeing can actually unfold.www.bluezones.com

Olympia Edwards didn’t find her first mentor through a formal program — she noticed her skirt, her shoes, and the way she walked with confidence. Sometimes mentorship unfolds organically like it did for Olympia and her mentor, Kelly. Other times, a path has to be intentionally created so more young people can experience the leadership, confidence, and belonging that relationships like theirs make possible. That belief is at the heart of Project Girl.In this episode of the Redefine What’s Possible podcast, Olympia, founder and executive director of Project Girl Mentoring Program, shares how that early, informal mentorship shaped how she leads and why she built a community-centered program that has supported over 1,000 girls across the Puget Sound since 2012. She reflects on what it means to be truly seen, why consistency matters, and how everyday moments of attention and care can change a young person’s sense of self.Olympia takes listeners inside the work of Project Girl — from school-based programs to after-school spaces — and explains how belonging is built through presence, trust, and shared experience. She also offers practical insights on supporting young people, interrupting negative self-talk, and showing up in ways that are human rather than performative.This conversation is a reminder that building belonging doesn’t require a formal title or a perfect plan. It starts with noticing, listening, and choosing to show up. If you’ve ever wondered how you might get more involved in your community, this episode offers a meaningful place to begin.Follow Project Girl on InstagramLearn More about Project Girl Mentoring Program

Most things come with a “best by” date—a quiet suggestion that usefulness, quality, or value has a shelf life. Judy Gay never bought into that idea.Judy joined Experience Momentum at 63. She began training seriously later in life, took on triathlons in her 70s, and stepped into powerlifting well after most people are told to slow down. At 81, she’s not telling a story about what she used to do—she’s reflecting on what happens when you keep choosing to engage with strength, even as it changes.Judy didn’t stumble into her strength. She built it—by showing up consistently, taking herself seriously, and surrounding herself with people who believed in growth at every age. She found belonging without shrinking herself, and community that didn’t lower the bar—but helped her clear it.As seasons changed, Judy stayed in relationship with her strength. She listened when her body asked for adjustment, adapted without quitting, and found ways to keep moving forward even when “strong” needed to look different than before. Strength, for her, was never something to leave behind—only something to meet where it was and carry into whatever came next.This conversation is a reminder that strength doesn’t disappear when it evolves. It accumulates. And when you keep choosing to engage with it—honestly, consistently, and on your own terms—it continues to redefine what’s possible.

SummaryWhen senior engineering leader Theresa Aristarco faced long COVID and burnout, her world suddenly got small — walking the dog became impossible, and even daily tasks drained every ounce of energy. But what happened next redefined her idea of success. In this powerful conversation, Theresa shares how she chose health over the high-powered career that once defined her, building a support team, finding strength through therapy and physical recovery, and ultimately transforming her life through creativity and coaching. From learning to ask for help to finding joy in the simple act of baking bread, her story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the courage it takes to start again.Keywords: resilience, burnout recovery, long COVID, vulnerability, reinvention, holistic healing, redefining success, coaching, leadership transformation.Chapters00:00 From Burnout to Breakthrough06:44 The Turning Point: A New Perspective on Health13:57 Building a Support Team for Recovery21:42 Celebrating Triumph: The Wedding Day23:35 Reclaiming Health and Creativity28:22 Transformative Journey Through The Artist's Way30:45 Redefining Success: Health First33:53 Coaching Through Transitions38:43 Building a Sustainable Coaching Business41:04 Taking the First Step Towards Change43:26 Finding Meaning in Struggles46:13 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections

Keywordsorthopedic surgery, cycling, reinvention, healthcare, Mischief Bikes, resilience, passion, risk-taking, patient care, medical innovationSummaryIn this episode, Dr. Chris Wahl shares his remarkable journey from being a top orthopedic surgeon to founding Mischief Bikes, a custom bike shop in Seattle, WA. He discusses the motivations behind his career changes, the challenges faced in both medicine and cycling, and the importance of resilience, joy, and community in pursuing one's passions. Dr. Wahl reflects on the lessons learned from difficult cases in surgery, the evolving landscape of healthcare, and the significance of taking risks to redefine what is possible in life.Sound Bites"The courage to reinvent yourself.""Good judgment comes from experience.""The time is now."Chapters00:00The Leap from Surgery to Cycling03:04The Journey into Medicine06:10Defining Moments in Orthopedics09:12Learning from Challenges11:56The Changing Landscape of Medicine15:02Risk and Innovation in Surgery17:59Reflections on a Medical Career20:57Healthcare Challenges and Future Directions24:09The Joy of Cycling and New Beginnings28:29Family Adventures on Bikes32:45The Joy of Biking and Community36:13A Journey of Reinvention40:51Crafting Mischief: The Art of Bike Building45:57Legacy and Lessons Learned50:54Rapid Fire Insights

KeywordsIce hockey, women's sports, Olympic athlete, personal growth, motherhood, resilience, professional hockey, sports transition, empowerment, community wellnesssummaryIn this episode, Kelly Tysland shares her inspiring journey from a young girl playing boys' hockey to becoming an Olympic medalist in women's ice hockey. She discusses the challenges she faced, including moving to Canada at 14, playing against boys, and overcoming setbacks in her career. Kelly reflects on her experiences at the Olympics, her decision to retire from competitive hockey, and her transition into motherhood and entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, resilience, and the rise of women's professional hockey, while also sharing valuable lessons learned along the way.TakeawaysKelly moved to Canada at 14 to pursue hockey.Playing against boys presented unique challenges.Overcoming setbacks is part of the journey.The Olympic experience was a culmination of hard work.Retirement from hockey opened new opportunities.Motherhood has taught her valuable leadership lessons.Building a community around wellness is essential.Women's professional hockey is finally gaining recognition.Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not just accolades.Growth comes from stepping out of comfort zones.Chapters00:00Introduction to Kelly Tysland01:40The Journey Begins: Moving to Canada at 1405:01The Challenges of Playing Boys Hockey10:10Overcoming Gender Barriers in Sports15:36Transitioning to Women's Hockey and College Life18:54The Road to the 2006 Winter Olympics23:35Experiencing the Olympics: Triumphs and Trials28:03Deciding to Step Away from Competitive Hockey30:48Embracing Change and Growth33:23The Journey of Transition37:19Building Experience Momentum39:43Empowering Through Movement41:10Listening to Our Bodies43:38Motherhood and Leadership45:36The Rise of Women's Hockey47:54Reflections on Life After Sports50:01Redefining Success51:33Staying Open to Possibilities

Keywordspersonal development, mindfulness, journaling, growth mindset, nutrition, energy management, clarity, movement, self-improvement, well-beingSummaryIn this episode of the Redefine What's Possible podcast, Shanon Tysland explores the journey of unlocking true potential through clarity, mindfulness, and intentional living. He emphasizes the importance of journaling, rest, nutrition, and movement in achieving a fulfilling life and that jumping into a fitness routine without a solid foundation is setting yourself up for failure. By addressing energy management and cultivating a growth mindset, listeners are encouraged to redefine their lives and pursue meaningful goals.TakeawaysTrue potential is built from the inside out.Clarity is essential for generating energy and understanding.Journaling can significantly improve mental well-being.Sleep is crucial for emotional balance and recovery.Identifying energy vampires helps maintain focus and positivity.Mindfulness practices can reclaim personal power and presence.A growth mindset allows for continuous development and learning.Nutrition plays a foundational role in overall health and energy.Movement should be joyful and fulfilling, not just a task.Aligning different aspects of life creates a more integrated and fulfilling experience.TitlesUnlocking Your True PotentialThe Power of Clarity and MindfulnessSound Bites"Mindfulness helps reclaim your power.""A growth mindset can change your world.""Movement brings joy and vitality."Chapters00:00Introduction to Redefining Potential09:18Restoration: The Importance of Sleep15:51Mindfulness: Being Present21:30Mindset: Shaping Your Perspective28:22Movement: Joy in Exercise32:22Conclusion: Aligning Your Life

SummaryIn this episode, Ali shares his inspiring journey from the Gambia to becoming a professional football player in the NFL. He discusses the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, the importance of community and mentorship, and how his faith has guided him through adversity. Ali emphasizes the significance of perseverance, support systems, and staying grounded in one's values while pursuing dreams.TakeawaysAli immigrated from the Gambia at the age of 12.He experienced a significant culture shock and language barrier upon arriving in the U.S.Football became a vital part of his life, providing community and support.Ali faced challenges with injuries but remained focused on his goals.His journey to LSU was marked by determination and hard work.Faith plays a crucial role in Ali's life and career.He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support from coaches.Ali's daily routine includes rigorous training and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.He encourages young people to persevere through challenges and seek support.Ali believes in being a light for others and redefining what's possible.Chapters00:00Ali's Journey from Gambia to the U.S.06:57Cultural Adjustments and Language Barriers14:12Discovering Football and Overcoming Challenges16:25The Road to College Football and Support Systems19:25Belonging vs. Arriving: A Personal Journey21:59The NFL Draft Experience: Hopes and Realities24:15Daily Habits and Mental Fortitude in the NFL26:06Faith as a Guiding Force28:28Staying Grounded in a Fast-Paced World30:57Overcoming Challenges: Advice for the Next Generation32:33Rapid Fire: Insights and Reflections

KeywordsEnvironmental advocacy, community engagement, sustainability, leadership, consumer responsibility, personal well-being, nonprofit challenges, curiosity, business impact, health and environmentTakeaways Kate Williams' journey into environmental advocacy was inspired by her love for nature.Community plays a crucial role in driving environmental change.Finding common ground is essential for uniting diverse perspectives in environmentalism.Curiosity can lead to productive conversations about environmental issues.Navigating challenges in nonprofits requires creativity and resilience.Redefining success in business involves aligning with environmental values.Personal well-being is vital for sustaining energy in advocacy work.Effective leadership involves empowering others and embracing vulnerability.Consumer choices can significantly impact environmental sustainability.Engaging with community can lead to unexpected insights and collaborations.SummaryIn this conversation, Kate Williams shares her journey into environmental advocacy, emphasizing the importance of community, curiosity, and personal well-being in driving change. She discusses the challenges faced by nonprofits and the need for businesses to redefine success in alignment with environmental values. The dialogue highlights the interconnectedness of personal health and planetary health, encouraging listeners to engage thoughtfully with their consumer choices and to embrace curiosity in conversations about environmental issues.Sound Bites"We all are part of the earth.""Curiosity is such a powerful tool.""We are part of the animal kingdom."Chapters00:00Kate's Journey to Environmental Leadership03:50The Challenge of Resource Allocation06:18Finding Common Ground in Environmentalism08:43Innovative Approaches to Capitalism10:53The Power of Community Engagement13:16Redefining Impact in Business15:32Vision and Resilience in Leadership18:13Navigating Consumerism and Environmental Stewardship22:11Building a Positive Ecosystem23:53The Power of Community27:37Personal Well-being and Leadership33:21Creating Space for Team Empowerment34:39Taking Meaningful Action36:44Connecting Human Health and Planetary Health38:28Rapid Fire Insights40:09Introduction and Gratitude40:31Finding Common Ground41:32Practical Actions for Impact42:17Personal Well-being and Leadership42:55Invitations for ActionLinks1% for the Planet WebsiteB Corp WebsitePremiums for the Planet Website

SummaryIn this episode, Shanon Tysland reconnects with Dave Watkins, who shares his remarkable journey from being a college football player to facing life-threatening heart issues. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the impact of personal experiences on identity, and the significance of living a legacy rather than leaving one. Dave reflects on his struggles with fear, mortality, and the need for presence in his family life. He emphasizes the importance of community, the power of vulnerability, and the necessity of redefining what is possible in life. Through his experiences, he inspires listeners to embrace change, let go of limiting identities, and live fully in the present.TakeawaysEveryone has a story that can inspire others.Facing mortality can lead to profound life changes.It's important to live a legacy, not just leave one.Fear can be navigated with community support.Letting go of identity can lead to personal growth.Presence in family is crucial for meaningful connections.You are the author of your own narrative.It's okay to fail; learn and regroup.Staying fluid allows for embracing change.You can change your present moment today.Sound Bites"Stay fluid and embrace change.""Tear down your own walls.""What chapter will you be on next?"Chapters00:00Reconnecting After 20 Years02:29Dave's Journey: From Athlete to Patient10:43Facing Mortality: The Diagnosis16:27The Turning Point: Legacy and Life Choices22:56Living a Legacy: The Iron Heart Foundation29:56Navigating Fear and Identity33:57Finding Peace and Presence38:55Redefining What's Possible46:40Letting Go of Identity53:04Staying Fluid: Embracing Change01:00:31Rituals for Connection and Peace01:05:58Encouragement for the Stuck01:11:29Living Your Legacy

SummaryIn this episode, Shanon Tysland explores the importance of presence in our lives, drawing insights from Dr. Robert Waldinger's 85-year Harvard study on happiness and health. He emphasizes the significance of unplugging from daily distractions to nurture relationships and connect deeply with loved ones. Through personal anecdotes from a family road trip, Shannon illustrates the challenges of being present and the transformative power of nature in fostering connection. He concludes with practical steps to cultivate presence in everyday life, encouraging listeners to prioritize meaningful relationships and moments of connection.TakeawaysTrue well-being isn't just physical; it's relational.Happiness is dictated by the quality of relationships.Loneliness is as detrimental to health as smoking.Presence is a choice we can make right now.Unplugging from screens can transform relationships.Nature can lower cortisol levels and improve mood.Being present means trading performance for connection.Presence is essential for deep connections with loved ones.Small steps can nurture meaningful relationships.The present moment is all we ever have.TitlesThe Essence of PresenceUnplugging for ConnectionSound Bites"The magic is in how we are being together.""Slow down, give yourself a moment.""Presence is a gift we give to ourselves."Chapters00:00The Power of Presence04:15Insights from the Harvard Study10:48The Challenge of Being Present14:31Nature as a Catalyst for Connection18:44Practical Steps to Foster PresenceLinksWatch Dr. Robert Waldinger's Ted Talk Here

SummaryIn this episode of the Redefine What's Possible podcast, Shanon Tysland and Emily Kinlaw discuss the transformative approach to food and nutrition, emphasizing the importance of intuitive eating, self-compassion, and the impact of diet culture. They explore how food can be a source of energy and joy rather than guilt and restriction, and they provide practical tips for listeners to cultivate a healthier relationship with food. The conversation also touches on the complexities of weight, the significance of self-talk, and the Health at Every Size movement, encouraging listeners to redefine their understanding of health and nourishment.TakeawaysFood should energize and support life, not control it.Calories are essential for energy, but they shouldn't be feared.Eating consistently helps maintain energy levels and mood.Diet culture often leads to guilt and shame around food choices.Intuitive eating encourages listening to one's body.Weight is influenced by many factors, not just diet and exercise.Self-talk can significantly impact our relationship with food.Health at Every Size promotes care for all body types.Making food fun can enhance the eating experience.Seeking support from a dietitian can provide personalized guidance.Sound Bites"Food is our energy.""Fad diets are often short-lived.""Weight is super complex."Chapters00:00Introduction to Food Freedom and Nourishment02:09Understanding Food as Energy06:39The Concept of Blood Sugar11:06Navigating Diet Culture and Clean Eating17:12The Complexity of Weight and Nutrition21:46Meeting Clients Where They Are25:20Emotional Connections to Food28:08The Role of Desserts in Nutrition29:47Understanding Self-Control and Food Shame31:36Listening to Your Body: Hunger vs. Cravings33:49Eating Before Bed: Myths and Realities35:17Health at Every Size: A New Perspective38:12Shifting Focus from Weight to Sustainable Behaviors40:33Applauding Effort Over Results42:16First Steps to Nourishing Your Body45:28Making Food Fun Again48:08Transforming Negative Self-Talk Around Food49:50Final Reflections on Compassionate Eating

SummaryIn this episode, Shannon continues to explore the concept of redefining what's possible in our lives. He discusses the neuroscience behind change, the importance of a growth mindset, and shares inspiring stories, particularly that of Judy, an 80-year-old powerlifter who exemplifies courage and determination. The conversation emphasizes the significance of identity, presence, and connection in personal growth, while providing practical steps to help listeners embrace change and redefine their potential.TakeawaysPossibility is the space between where you are now and where you could be.Growth happens in disruption, not predictability.A growth mindset shifts 'I can't' to 'I can't yet.'Judy's story shows it's never too late to start.Redefining what's possible is about identity and belief.Surround yourself with people who see more in you.Sometimes, the bravest thing is being present.Dopamine can distract us from what truly matters.Ordinary effort, repeated, leads to extraordinary change.Redefining what's possible requires just a spark.Sound Bites"Growth doesn't happen in predictability.""You don't have to be great to start.""What else could I be doing right now?"Chapters00:00Introduction to Redefining Possibility01:00Understanding Possibility and Change06:05The Journey of Growth and Neuroplasticity10:37Inspiration from Judy's Story12:06Identity and Self-Perception16:14The Importance of Presence20:06Practical Steps to Redefine Possibility24:53Challenge for the Week

SummaryIn this inaugural episode, Shanon Tysland shares his personal journey of growth, challenges, and the lessons learned along the way. From his early aspirations of becoming a farmer to navigating the complexities of education and career choices, Shanon emphasizes the importance of being present, embracing discomfort, and the value of community. He reflects on the founding of Experience Momentum, a wellness center aimed at holistic healing, and shares key takeaways that can inspire listeners to redefine their own possibilities in life.TakeawaysOwn your choices and take responsibility for your path.Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth.Community and support are essential for success.Purpose is more important than a paycheck.Applaud the effort, not just the results.Healing is holistic; focus on the whole person.Redefining what's possible starts with understanding your journey.Surround yourself with people who challenge and believe in you.Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.Focus on what you can control in your life.Chapters00:00 - Welcome to the Journey01:14 - Shanon's Journey04:05 - From Dreams to Reality10:20 - Facing Challenges15:01 - The Quest for Identity18:32 - The Beginning of Experience Momentum20:55 - Climbing Mount Shasta: A Turning Point23:44 - The Road to Entrepreneurship27:58 - Five Key Lessons LearnedLearn more about Shanon and Experience Momentum