Sacred Business Stories

So here’s what happened.We sat down with Leo Babauta last week. About twenty-five minutes came through in the replay. The first fifteen didn’t. Substack swallowed the opening. Honestly, I was pretty gutted, and I sat with the recording for a few days wondering whether to share the replay at all. Then I caught myself.This was a conversation about beginning before you’re ready and shipping the imperfect thing. And I was about to scrap it because the recording wasn’t perfect lol.Honestly, Leo’s been someone I’ve considered a friend for years now. So here it is. Imperfect, missing the opening, but still some great food for thought, as Leo is one of the wisest dudes I know. I listen to what this guy has to say, and you should too.A few things from this conversation I think are worth drawing attention to:There’s a moment where Leo names a particular trap AI is setting for ambitious people, and and interesting framing. He calls Claude his “best cheerleader.” Why he frames that as a problem is the part you should check out.Carolina asked him about fear and resistance. He answered with a sewing project he’s been working on for years. (Yes, sewing.) Where he took that, and how he tied it back to his own Substack, was also a great moment worth watching.And toward the end, he answered a question about growth in a way you might not quite expect from someone who’s built the audience he has. The line started with “growth is a loaded topic for a lot of people.” The whole thing runs about twenty-seven minutes.If you’ve ever caught yourself opening twelve tabs because Claude told you all twelve ideas were brilliant, this one’s for you.Phil (& Carolina)Thank you Josh Woll, Noelle Richards, Rebecca Weston, Inge van de Graaf, Claire Machado, and many others for tuning into Sacred Business Stories with Leo Babauta and Carolina Wilke! Helping you get clear, get seen, and get paid by aligning who you are with how you show up, all while building a business that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

We had Mia Kiraki 🎭 on Sacred Business Stories this week.She writes a Substack called Robots Ate My Homework. Half Armenian, half Romanian. Film studies in London, two master’s degrees, a decade in B2B content marketing, a content agency built with her husband, and now one of the most interesting voices on AI on Substack.Her tagline says it. AI with brains, taste, and an unreasonable amount of depth.And then, somewhere around the twenty-minute mark, she turned a question back on me.I don’t want to set it up too much. The full exchange is on the feed and it’s worth hearing in her voice. What I’ll say is this. The question pulled at a habit I’d already been quietly questioning. The moment that followed left Carolina and me looking at each other across the call. The line that closed it landed in one short phrase I haven’t been able to put down since.That’s one of three or four moments in this conversation that really made me go “woah”.Among the others.She doesn’t write tutorials. Her brain, in her own words, is 99% on the creative side, and her code “fights back” when she vibe-codes. So when AI shows up and the rest of the field is racing to explain it, she’s doing something else entirely. She lets the trend sit. Watches what people say about it for a week or two. Then connects it to a book or a film or a note she jotted down on a different day. The newsletter that comes out of that process sits on three pillars I think most people writing about AI right now are missing. I won’t spoil them. They’re worth hearing her name.She also said the thing substack writers don’t usually like to admit on a podcast.She started Substack as an outreach engine. The first posts were about her product. Then something shifted and she stopped pitching. When I asked her how she made the call, her answer was a single sentence and one of the cleaner reframes of “strategy” I’ve heard in a while. Carolina caught it before I did.And on connection, which is the thing most people on Substack are quietly anxious about, her advice was almost embarrassingly simple. The kind of simple you only earn after ten years.The conversation runs about thirty minutes.If any of the above is making you curious, watch the the full episode above. Mia’s publication is Robots Ate My Homework. Both worth your time.And if you’re wondering what her question was, you’ll have to listen.Helping you get clear, get seen, and get paid by aligning who you are with how you show up, all while building a business that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

The snowboarding accident landed Brian Clark in surgery for a subdural hematoma. He had a wife, a three-year-old daughter, and a new baby son who’d just arrived.What he wanted was simple. He didn’t want to keep spending his life on work he hated.The hard part was that his real estate brokerage had just become the first business he’d ever built that made more money than his big-law job would have. He had something to prove with it. And now, recovering from brain surgery, he was thinking hard about everything he didn’t actually want to spend his life doing.“I’m not doing this anymore.” Those were the words. Shocking, in his telling, because of the family he now had to feed. But clarity arrives fast when you’ve just been that close to the edge.What came next is the part most people already know in some form, because Brian is the founder of Copyblogger. He built three seven-figure no-employee businesses in three years, combined them into what became an eight-figure software and hosting company, did $70 million in sales between 2007 and 2017, and sold in 2018. Then, at an age when most of his peers were talking about retirement, he started a Substack called Further, built for the generation that employers start pushing out the door somewhere between 58 and 62.So we had him on Sacred Business Stories this week to trace the arc. The part most people don’t hear is what happened before the wins.He’d quit law in 1998. His first business failed. It was an email newsletter company, which, as he pointed out, is roughly the same thing everyone on Substack is doing in 2026. He just got there 28 years too early and didn’t understand how to sell anything. He thought you monetized content with advertising. The dot-com crash ended it for him, and in his words, that was a mercy killing.Then he read one line in Seth Godin’s Permission Marketing. “The Internet is the greatest direct marketing medium the world has ever seen.” That was the sentence that reset his path. He taught himself copywriting and studied direct response going back to the 1920s. By the time he launched Copyblogger in 2006, he was treating the internet as a relationship game rather than a publishing one.Two things stood out in the conversation.The first was a quote that’s stuck with me since we recorded. “Technology doesn’t change human nature. It amplifies it.” Apply that anywhere you like. AI, Substack, the dopamine feed on whatever platform ate your morning. The useful question is what side of you a given tool tends to amplify.The second was about values-based marketing. Brian made the point that values aren’t automatically good. Greed is a value. Figures like Andrew Tate have audiences because they’re marketing with precision to the values of those audiences, and it’s been okay on the internet for a long time, in his words, to be awful. Which means writers who sit on their message because they’re worried about being disliked are making the problem worse. They leave the space empty. Somebody fills it. Usually not someone you’d want doing the filling.His advice to anyone hesitating was unfussy. “If you try to create generic content because you’re afraid to say anything that matters, you will not succeed.”The shift Brian made after the brain surgery is worth naming clearly. He stopped building from an energy of having something to prove. He started building something he actually cared about. The irony, as he put it, is that the decade after that shift is the one that produced the $70 million.Which reframes a belief a lot of people carry into their work. The idea that purpose and practicality pull in opposite directions. Brian’s experience says they pull in the same one. The decade he made his most purpose-aligned decisions was also the decade he made the most money.You can find Brian writing at news.further.net.He speaks mostly to 45 to 70 year olds who aren’t ready to retire and aren’t going to be allowed to coast much longer either. Gen X, in his framing, is the canary in the coal mine for what happens next.Check out the fully replay. He doesn’t waste the hour. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Laurie Marbas, MD, MBA started medical school with three kids under five, a husband commuting 100 miles each way, and no real plan for how she’d absorb the sheer volume of information being thrown at her. So she drew cartoons. Not as a hobby. As a survival strategy. It worked well enough that her classmates started asking for copies, and she ended up publishing six textbooks before she graduated.That instinct to translate complexity into something a real person can actually use has followed her ever since. It’s in the way she practiced medicine. It’s in the patient eBooks she made long before “content creation” was a thing. And it’s in The Habit Healers, her Substack publication that crossed 50,000 Facebook followers in just two months and keeps growing because it does something most health writing doesn’t: it starts from where people actually are, not from where we assume they should be.This conversation with Laurie was honest in the best way. She didn’t pretend her path wasn’t messy. She talked about the soul-crushing side of military medicine, about the fear that lives inside every pivot, and about how a patient who started with two push-ups on a kitchen counter now does 60 in a row. That last one I loved. Because that’s exactly what this show is about.Show Notes[00:00] — Welcome & Who Is Dr. Laurie MarbasLaurie is a board-certified physician with an MD and MBA who has been writing and creating content online for over a decade. She founded The Habit Healers to bring metabolic health science into everyday language, paired with small, actionable protocols people can actually follow. She started on Substack in January 2025 and has grown quickly by applying the same thinking she used to survive medical school: break it down, explain it clearly, and make it fun.[00:02] — Growing Up Without a MapLaurie grew up in a home without health insurance, with parents who didn’t finish high school. When her four-year-old sister got sick and had a surgery that changed her life, Laurie decided at age ten that she wanted to be part of that. Nobody handed her a roadmap. Her stepdad hadn’t finished school. Her mom had her at 19. What she had instead was the decision that those facts weren’t reasons to stop.* She learned early that when people said “you can’t be a doctor,” she didn’t compute it. She moved on.* Her grandmother was one of the adults who reflected a different possibility back to her* The gap between what people around her had done and what she wanted to do became fuel. She just kept going.[00:04] — Drawing Cartoons Through Medical SchoolStarting medical school with children aged five, three, and ten months old, Laurie had to find a faster way to learn. Rote memorization wasn’t going to work. So she started sketching out complex medical concepts in cartoon form, as a memory tool. Friends noticed. She started making them for others. By the time she graduated, she and her co-authors had published six books in a series called Visual Mnemonics. The skill she developed to survive school, breaking down complicated ideas into something simple enough to draw, became the skill that runs her entire practice and publication today.* She later created patient eBooks to replace the confusion people left appointments with* The cartoon logic carried forward: clear, visual, honest* “I made my way through medical school drawing cartoons. Take it for what it’s worth.”[00:08] — JoyWhen Carolina asked Laurie about the relationship between joy and healing, this conversation opened up. Laurie described joy as what happens when you’re deeply in your work, when flow comes easily and curiosity pulls you forward. The true joy, she said, is watching someone understand something they didn’t understand before. Seeing a comment where someone changed something because of what she wrote.* “It’s the doctoring through words, in a sense, but it’s more than that because you’re touching lives you can’t see in a clinic”* She described ripple effects from her writing, one reader teaching something to another, who then came back to tell her months later* She’s not trying to reach 50,000 people at once. She’s trying to reach one person well, and trusting that the ripple goes somewhere she can’t track[00:12] — Identity ShiftLaurie was active duty Air Force after medical school. She found herself in a system where she had little control, doing work that was hollowing her out. She called it soul-crushing. She made the decision to leave. The military is stable, predictable, and safe. She watched colleagues stay because the alternative was terrifying. She chose the terror instead.* That pivot required accepting uncertainty, something she keeps returning to as a pattern* Her husband’s question has followed her through every transition: “Are you still enjoying what you’re doing?”* She described creative identity as something you keep choosing. When the old path stops fitting, you choose again.[00:20] — Tinkering, Testing, and Growing 50,000 Facebook Followers in Two MonthsLaurie sees every platform as a variable worth testing. She grew a dormant Facebook page from around 9,000 followers to over 50,000 in roughly two months by treating it as a funnel into Substack. The entry point is a free seven-day mini course. From there, readers move into her paid School community where she shows up live weekly. The structure is clear: free content, Substack list, paid community. Three layers. No guessing where someone is supposed to go.* “Facebook has 2.8 billion users. Substack has 35 to 40 million. If you can figure out how to funnel from there, you open something up.”* She resurrected a stale page she’d largely ignored; it had been sitting at the same number for ten years* The move was building qualified traffic. Content that attracts the wrong reader is just noise with more followers attached.[00:26] — Radical Acceptance and the Nervous SystemThis was the section of the conversation that Carolina connected to most directly. Laurie described how she learned to stop letting her past dictate her present, and how that shift changed things. She wasn’t dismissive about hard things. She said clearly: her home growing up was not ideal. She had people in her life who balanced that out. But she made a decision at some point to stop holding her story as an identity she lived inside.* “I honor your past, but you cannot let it continue to dictate your future”* She wears a ring inscribed with “this too shall pass.” The good times. The bad times. All of it moves through.* Real regulation, she said, is being present enough to notice the story you’re telling yourself before it runs away with you[00:28] — How Tiny Habits Build the Confidence to ChangeOne of the most grounded moments in the conversation was a real patient story. Someone who had never exercised in her life. Laurie gave her one instruction: two push-ups on the kitchen counter. Two months later, that patient was doing 60. She showed Laurie her arms on a video call. “I challenge anyone to go do 60 push-ups and not find that challenging,” Laurie said. Starting small is the actual path to the bigger thing.* Small wins create the proof of capability that people who have never had it genuinely need* The CAN framework she uses: is the habit Clear, is it Actionable today without extra gear, is it Nourishing for you right now?* What was nourishing at 35 may not be nourishing at 55. The habit has to fit the actual life.[00:41] — Reps, Detachment, and Why Content SucceedsLaurie published something on Substack every day for the first six months. Not because it was perfect. Because 180 reps in six months is what weekly publishing takes three years to match. She was very direct: you can’t be emotionally devastated every time something doesn’t land. You put everything into it, publish it, and then let it go. She had a useful image for this: stand outside, look up at the sky, and register how small the post actually is in the context of the universe. Then keep going.* The articles that convert, she’s found, are the ones written for a specific reader with a specific problem. Not the ones optimized for conversion.* “That energy follows through with your words.” Writing to help and writing to sell feel different to the reader.* She pulls reader feedback into new posts. Testimonials, outcome stories, successes they’ve shared with her all become content, with permission.Key Quotes“It’s the doctoring through words, in a sense. But you’re touching lives I can’t see 50,000 people in a day, but I can send out a post.” — Dr. Laurie Marbas“You can’t let your past continue to dictate your future. When we choose to do that, that’s where we continue to struggle.” — Dr. Laurie Marbas“The moment you believe you deserve it and you start taking action, you shift. You start seeing opportunities. And you enjoy it, but you don’t hold on to it either.” — Dr. Laurie Marbas“You have to decide: is this a business or is this a hobby? Because that will dictate how you approach it.” — Dr. Laurie Marbas“Those are the ones that convert. Those are the ones that people share. You’re walking in with a different intention and you get a different outcome.” — Dr. Laurie MarbasResources Mentioned* Atomic Habits by James Clear (Laurie interviewed James Clear approximately seven to eight years ago)* Visual Mnemonics series — six textbooks co-authored by Dr. Marbas during medical school, designed to help medical students retain complex information through visual learning* Zen Habits (blog by Leo Babauta) — referenced in context of early blogging strategy and the value of volume and consistency in building an audience* Russell Brunson’s funnel frameworks — mentioned as an influence on Laurie’s multi-platform approach to moving audiences toward Substack* The CAN Framework — Dr. Marbas’s original tool for evaluating whether a habit is right for someone right now: Clear (is it specific?), Actionable today (no extra setup required), Nourishing (is it right for where you are in life?)Where to Find Dr. Laurie MarbasLaurie’s Substack publication, The Habit Healers, is the best place to start. She recommends searching for the article “The First Habit I Prescribe as a Doctor” to get a feel for her philosophy. The publication uses a newspaper-style layout, with the most-read articles visible on the left side. She publishes four times a week across metabolic health, behavior change, and healing habits, all translated from clinical science into things you can actually do today.A Note From Our CommunityThis is what Sacred Business Stories is for. The version with three kids and no one in your family who’d done it before. The version where you leave the military because the safety stopped feeling like safety. The version where 2,000 YouTube videos exist before anything looks like momentum.Laurie reminded me of something I believe deeply: the habits that heal your body are often the same ones that lead to your most meaningful work. Small, clear, nourishing action. Repeated. With some willingness to release attachment to the outcome.If anything in this conversation landed for you, specifically the part about knowing you have something real to give and still finding it hard to move, I’d love to talk.We hold Integration Calls for exactly this. It’s a real conversation about what you’re building, what’s stopping it, and whether there’s a fit between where you are and how we work. → Book an Integration CallThank YouThank you Joel Salinas, Claire Machado, Marg KJ, Noelle Richards, KathrynM, and to many others who joined us live for this conversation. We’re in this together.P.S. All previous Sacred Business Stories episodes and Substack posts are archived on our publication. If someone shared this with you and you want to stay connected, subscribe below. It’s free to start. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

She Had 100,000 Followers. Then She Disappeared for 18 Months. Here’s What She Came Back With.Sacred Business Stories | Weekly Substack Live Recap | Guest: Morena Cardoso, Somatic Therapist, Writer & Founder of Danza MedicinaMorena Cardoso has spent the last decade leading immersive movement laboratories across 15 countries under the banner of Danza Medicina, working with the female body, ancestral healing, and what she calls “the old ways.” She’s built a following on Instagram. She’s written a book. She’s completed a master’s in clinical psychology. And at the peak of her visibility, she stopped. Completely.Not a little break. Not a social media detox weekend. She canceled her entire agenda, went offline, and disappeared for a year and a half while the internet kept moving without her. What she came back with, and why she left in the first place, is the kind of story that makes you put your phone down.For anyone building a business that’s supposed to feel like them, this conversation is worth sitting with. Morena brought a high level of honesty to the show. Extremely non-performative. She told us where she struggled, where she’s still figuring it out, and why she’s grateful for every year that makes her a little less interested in rushing.Show Notes[00:00] Welcome & Introduction* Morena Cardoso is a somatic therapist, writer, and founder of Danza Medicina, a movement-based healing practice she’s led across 15 countries* Sacred Business Stories was created to give people permission to restart from where they are, not from where they think they should be* Phil opens by asking Morena to share the behind-the-scenes story, the part people don’t see when they encounter her work today[01:50] A Body That Felt Everything and Didn’t Know What to Do with It* Morena’s path began with lifelong hypersensitivity. She felt the world in her body before she had language for it* She started in hotel management, realized quickly it wasn’t hers, and followed a pull toward yoga and body-based practice* A trip to India changed the direction. She started meeting people who were living a way she hadn’t seen modeled anywhere in her upbringing* Her first real driver wasn’t helping others. It was surviving, and making sure she could take care of herself and her son without asking permission from anyone[05:00] Building Danza Medicina: What She Was Actually Looking For* She didn’t set out to build a program. She wanted to create something that didn’t exist yet because she needed it herself* “I want to create sacred spaces for us because I was urging to receive it.” That line explains everything about how the best work gets built* She traveled to meet the grandmothers, the abuelas holding ancient wisdom, before she started teaching anything* Returning to Brazil, she had to reckon with her own identity as a white, middle-class woman working in spaces adjacent to indigenous and ancestral traditions. She went back to school instead of around it[08:00] What Authenticity Actually Looks Like in Practice* Morena was born spontaneous and learned, over time, to shut that down. Business was a process of unlearning the domestication* The shift came through humbleness, not performance. She wasn’t trying to be right or recognized. She just noticed she wasn’t alone in what she was feeling* “I started naming it. And they could say, oh, I feel the same. And I was like, oh really.” That recognition is what built connection before anything else* She watches for the moment she starts controlling results rather than creating from truth. That’s her signal to step back and ask why she’s doing it again[10:30] The Sabbatical: What Made Her Stop* At the height of her work, 100,000 followers, events across 10 countries, Morena canceled everything and went dark for 18 months* The decision wasn’t strategic. She went through a spiritual ritual after losing four pregnancies in a row. Medicine had no explanation. Something in her body did* She spent two months camping on her land, making fire, praying, and sitting with the grief as a doorway rather than something to manage away* The answer she received was simple: go back to taking care of yourself. You’re not that important. Stop nourishing others before you nourish yourself* She describes it as an ego death. The persona she’d built over years had to come apart so she could find out who was underneath it[18:00] Fear, the Calling, and How to Tell the Difference* She had very real fears about money. Her family didn’t come from wealth. Not working meant not knowing if the bills would get paid* She draws a clear line between the calling and the mind. The mind offers reasons. The calling doesn’t negotiate* “When you hear that deep calling inside, everything goes in a proper way. Not necessarily a good way. But in a proper way. We learn what we have to learn.”* Her advice for anyone trying to hear their own signal through the noise: stop. Not metaphorically. Stop. “We’re so afraid of stopping. We live in this performative life all the time.”* She shared that she took the Harmony Map assessment during this conversation and said it surfaced answers she hadn’t expected, along with new questions worth sitting with[22:30] Coming Back* A year and a half later, her baby was 40 days old. She looked at her husband and said she was ready* Her first post was a photo of herself with a nine-month belly and a mask. The caption, translated from Portuguese: “For reborn, we need to learn how to die.”* It received 15,000 likes. Her words: “Oh s**t. They’re still there.”* Not everyone stayed. Some people had grown attached to the old version of Morena and didn’t follow the new one. New people came. The ones who’d been there for ten years grew with her* Coming back with a psychology master’s degree, a new baby, a changed voice, and a changed Instagram algorithm, she had to learn again from something close to zero. She calls it “a little bit analogical.” It was harder than starting[33:00] The Fire vs. The Big Log* There’s a stage of building a business that runs on excitement. It creates fast, burns hot, needs constant fuel. That’s the small kindling* There’s another stage that requires putting the big log on. It’s slower. Less exciting. Sometimes tedious. But it burns long enough to build something real* Morena, at 40, says she no longer has the energy for perpetual intensity. She’s building the biggest project of her life right now, and most days it doesn’t feel electric. It feels like work* “I am now mature enough to hold space for that.” That sentence is worth writing down* Phil connects this to his own practice with the Harmony Map, now on its 13th iteration in a year. Not 13 reinventions. 13 deepenings of the same thing[40:00] The Project in Bahia and What Comes Next* Morena is building a physical center in Bahia, Brazil: a research space, a dance space, and an art residency on 22 hectares of Atlantic forest with 1 kilometer of clean river, shared with three close friends* It’s the first time in her life she’s building something material. She doesn’t hide the dream. She talks about it openly because she believes that’s part of how it becomes real* She continues to lead international Danza Medicina labs for those who want the full embodied experience. In her words: “I can speak well, but honestly I do much better when I’m silent and just holding space.”* To connect with her work: find her on Instagram and follow Danza MedicinaKey Quotes“I want to create something that doesn’t exist because I need it. I need to be with women, I need to dance, I need to make fire and sing around the fire.” — Morena Cardoso“Every time I see that I’m trying to control the process or the results, I take a step back. Because I know I’m going into automatism.” — Morena Cardoso“To be reborn, we need to learn how to die.” — Morena Cardoso (the caption on her return post after 18 months offline)“We are so afraid of stopping. We are such a performative life all the time. It takes a lot of courage and strength to stop. More than just keep going.” — Morena Cardoso“When you hear that deep calling inside, everything goes in a proper way. Not necessarily a good way. But in a proper way.” — Morena CardosoResources Mentioned* Danza Medicina — Morena’s immersive movement practice (Instagram: @danzamedicina)* The Business Harmony Map — the 10-minute assessment Morena mentioned taking before this conversation; it maps nine internal patterns and shows you where your business energy is most out of balance* Sacred Business Flow — the work Phil and Carolina do with purpose-driven professionals who are ready to build something aligned and lastingWhere to Find Morena Cardoso* Instagram: Search Danza Medicina* Upcoming work: International Danza Medicina labs in 2026 (limited due to focus on the Bahia land project)* The big project: A healing, research, and art residency center in Bahia, Brazil, on 22 hectares of Atlantic forestA Note Before You GoMorena mentioned something during this conversation that I want to sit with you for a moment.She took the Business Harmony Map before we spoke. She said it surprised her how many answers came up just from answering the questions. And then, just as fast, new questions rose.That’s what the Harmony Map is designed to do. Not give you a label to screenshot. Not push you toward anything. Just help you see the pattern that’s been quietly running your decisions, so you can start designing around who you actually are, not who you think you’re supposed to be.If you’ve been in business for years and still feel like something invisible is slowing you down, that’s worth looking at. Eight minutes. Easy.Take the Business Harmony Map here →Thank YouTo Rachel Connor, Farid Alsafaar, BreathingEmbodied, Debra Goring, and many others who joined us live and to those catching the replay, thank you for being here.A special thank you to Morena for her honesty. For sharing not just the success, but the losses, the silence, the fear, and the slow work of coming back to herself. That kind of openness is rare. It’s also, as this episode makes clear, exactly what connection is built on.P.S. Every episode of Sacred Business Stories is available in our archive. If this one resonated, you might enjoy this one with Elena Brower . There’s a lot of honest conversation about what it actually looks like to build this way.What’s Next: We’re back next week with another Substack Live conversation with Laurie Marbas, MD, MBA. Subscribe if you’re not already, and you’ll get it in your inbox the moment it’s live.Until then.PhilNew to Sacred Business? Start Here Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

You’ve been sitting on something. Maybe for months, maybe longer. Not because you don’t have anything to say, but because the silence around what you’ve already written, or thought about writing, or almost published, has started to feel like a verdict.What if it isn’t?You read it back, you hear nothing from the outside world, and you decide to wait a little longer until it’s better, until you’re clearer, until the timing is right.When Mac first spoke honestly in a bible study group, the man who went next said something he’d never said to anyone. Mac didn’t cause that by being inspiring. He caused it by going first, and he understood precisely why. He built Porn Free Millennial from inside the situation it addresses, a Substack publication and podcast about recovery from pornography addiction, before the divorce was final, before his own story was over, before anyone was reading. He stopped for two years. Then he started again. He publishes it every Monday from his RV, alongside a corporate job he hasn’t left. The light, he says, is a great disinfectant. Once you get it into the light, it starts a process. Things start moving to where you can’t just be in the same place anymore.He realized in that room that sharing his story might just open up somebody. That if he went first, the person sitting next to him might say something he’d never said before. When you’re teaching something or sharing about yourself, he said, it calls you to elevate how you live your life. You can’t keep talking about something you’re not living into. What that looked like when five people were listening and the numbers said stop is what this conversation is about.Show Notes[Segment 1] — The Platform and Why It’s Named That • Porn Free Millennial addresses a topic most people won’t name publicly. Mac chose the name deliberately and doesn’t soften it. • His framing is honest from the start: this is his subject, his wound, and he offers it as a service. • The directness of the platform name sets the tone for the whole body of work.[Segment 2] — Where It Started: Age 10 Forward • Mac’s story began at age 10 and ran through marriage and into divorce. He is specific about the timeline. • He was caught, not confessional, six months into his marriage and handled the moment badly. He’s honest about that. • The secret didn’t break the marriage on its own. Managing the gap between who he appeared to be and what he was doing created the damage. • Mac describes having a public identity built on trustworthiness while carrying “this separate self I wasn’t too proud about.”[Segment 3] — Built It, Stopped, Then Started Again • Mac created Porn Free Millennial in 2021 while still married and nearly two years sober. He stopped before he launched it publicly. • A relapse after a cross-country move cut him off from his therapist, his bible study group, and his closest friends at once. Rebuilding those structures in a new city took longer than the gap they left. • He didn’t actually start publishing and podcasting until May 2023, after the divorce. The platform sat dormant for nearly two years. • The lesson isn’t about willpower. It’s about structure: the support system that makes the work possible is not optional, and it doesn’t travel automatically when you do.[Segment 4] — The Bible Study Moment That Changed Everything • Mac shared something vulnerable in a group bible study. The man who spoke after him immediately shared something he’d never said out loud before. • Mac recognized the pattern: going first creates permission. When one person stops managing their image, the people around them become capable of something they weren’t capable of before. • This moment became the operating principle of Porn Free Millennial: the platform exists because going first is contagious. • Mac’s words: “I shared something really deep. And what I noticed was, it was like the next guy after me shared something really private and something that they were struggling with. I think that was one of the first times I really realized, wow. If I shared something about my story, that might just open up somebody.”[Segment 5] — The Fear of Talking to No One • Mac’s first article got 20 to 30 reads. His first podcast episode got 5 downloads on day one. • The fear wasn’t that people would judge what he was saying. It was that nobody would hear it at all. • One friend reached out privately after listening. Mac decided that one person was worth more than any number the platform wasn’t giving him. • Carolina named the pattern: a reader will sit with someone’s work for a year in silence, then write to say something changed. The silence wasn’t indifference. It was process.The question Mac eventually stopped asking: What if no one is listening?[Segment 6] — How to Build Through Collaboration • Mac’s approach: interact with someone’s work before you ask for anything. Leave comments, engage with their posts, let them see your name before you reach out directly. • His most effective collaborations came from unexpected intersections, a film professor, a medieval art historian, an AI specialist, not from chasing people in the same niche. • Starting with a collaborative article is lower friction than a podcast invite. It builds trust and gives both people a finished piece of work before committing to a longer format. • The worst someone can say is no. Mac is direct about this. Most people never ask because they haven’t made peace with that outcome.[Segment 7] — The Growth Move He Didn’t Plan • A single Substack Note featuring a Duncan Trussell quote brought roughly 90 new subscribers. Mac did not predict this. • Substack Notes, not long-form essays, drove his biggest single growth moment on the platform. • The practical point: stay consistently visible in small ways and stop trying to engineer what spreads. • His Monday newsletter, consistent and unremarkable in ambition, proved more valuable over time than any single spike.[Segment 8] — What He Offers Now • Mac publishes a weekly newsletter every Monday, runs a bi-weekly podcast trending toward weekly, and writes Porn Free Poetry, one poem per month. • He offers one-on-one coaching starting with a free Zoom discovery call, available through his Substack about page. • He has an accountability software partnership with Ever Accountable, with a 20% discount linked on his about page. • Mac runs all of this alongside a corporate day job from his RV. He hasn’t quit to pursue the platform. He’s building it while the day job is still there. • His words on why consistency holds: “When you’re teaching somebody something or sharing stuff about yourself, I think that calls you to elevate how you live your life. Because I don’t wanna be talking about something if I’m not living into it.”Key Quotes“People would see Mac. You’d look at me and be like, oh, hey. That’s Mac. He’s trustworthy. He tells the truth. He’s honest. He has integrity[...] But at the same time, I had this separate self that I wasn’t too proud about.”Mac Dohm“I think when you get it out in the light[...] the light’s like a great disinfectant. Because once you get it in the light, it starts a process. It starts getting things moving to where you can’t just be in the same place anymore. You have to take some kind of action.”Mac Dohm“I shared something really deep. And what I noticed was, it was like the next guy after me shared something really private and something that they were struggling with. I think that was one of the first times I really realized, wow. If I shared something about my story, that might just open up somebody.”Mac Dohm“I’m not trying to hold things back because I hope that somebody can read it or listen to it and be like, okay. Well, if he’s doing it, then I can do it.”Mac Dohm“When you’re teaching somebody something or if you’re sharing stuff about yourself, I think that calls you to elevate how you live your life. Because I don’t wanna be talking about something if I’m not living into it.”Mac DohmResources Mentioned in This EpisodePorn Free Radio: podcast hosted by Matt Dobschuetz Matt Dobshutz, one of the original voices in the porn-free recovery space. Mac credits this show with starting his recovery.Ever Accountable: accountability and content-filtering software. 20% discount available on Mac’s Substack about page.Porn Free Millennial Episode 50: Mac’s interview with Matt Dobshutz, cited as one of his best episodes.Substack Notes: the short-form posting feature Mac used to generate his single largest subscriber growth event.Duncan Trussell: comedian and podcaster. A Trussell quote shared as a Substack Note produced Mac’s biggest single growth moment on the platform.Where to Find Mac DohmMac built Porn Free Millennial from inside the exact situation it addresses, before he was ready, before his own story was over, and before the numbers gave him any reason to keep going. If you’ve been sitting on something that feels too personal to publish, he’s worth your time. Here’s where to find his work.Substack: Porn Free Millennial (weekly newsletter, bi-weekly podcast, Porn Free Poetry series, Reflections)Mac said that teaching something calls him to live into it. He can’t talk about what he’s not doing. That’s not a standard accountability trick. It’s a specific consequence of going public with the thing you’re still working on.This conversation left me with one question. What would you have to live into if you published what you’ve been holding back? Not what would change for your audience. What would have to change for you.Mac’s through-line was that what costs you most to keep hidden is often what someone else needs to hear first. If this conversation named something for you, the Harmony Map can tell you what pattern is underneath it. Ten minutes. Free. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

The man who helped copywriters earn $25 million in contracts couldn’t pull the trigger on his own Substack channel.That’s the confession Kevin Rogers made on Sacred Business Stories this week. And if you’ve ever found yourself knowing exactly what you should do next while watching yourself not do it, this conversation was for meant for you.Kevin built CopyChief into a powerhouse community over 11 years. Live events with 300 people flying in from Australia and Asia. Legendary industry names jamming on stage at after-parties. A coaching program that actually worked. By any external measure, he’d made it.Then he walked away from all of it.The Problem Nobody Talks AboutHere’s the conventional wisdom: build the thing, scale the thing, optimize the thing, repeat. Success is a straight line from hustle to growth to more growth.Kevin’s experience tells a different story.Somewhere around year seven, the business that used to feel like play started feeling like obligation. His emails had to go through five people before he could send them. He was banned from pushing any buttons in his own software. The guy who built his success on spontaneous connection couldn’t wake up with an idea and share it anymore.“It started to feel a bit like a machine,” he said. The purity was gone.This isn’t just Kevin’s story. It’s the story of every creator who followed the playbook perfectly and ended up trapped inside their own success.The Middle Passage FrameworkKevin discovered a concept from psychologist Dr. James Hollis called the Middle Passage. It works like this:Your first adulthood is built on one reference point: your childhood. You either try to live up to what you experienced or do the exact opposite. You create roles, chase significance, build identities. This is natural.Then one day you wake up having achieved everything you set out to achieve, and something whispers: “Is this it?”That’s not a crisis. That’s an invitation.Hollis calls it the transition to second adulthood. And the hard part? There’s no workbook. No 90-day calendar with little exercises. No roadmap telling you what the other side looks like.You just have to let go of any expectation for what life might have waiting for you.For Kevin, this meant ending a 25-year marriage, closing his business, and sitting in the uncertainty while everyone around him assumed some crime had been committed.The Real ShiftCarolina asked Kevin a question that stopped the conversation for a minute: “How do you deal with both the spark of inspiration and the need for consistency?”His answer: “I need to be close to the thing I’m writing about and feeling.”This is the opposite of what most business advice tells you. Step back. Get out of the weeds. Be the visionary floating in the hot air balloon while your integrator handles the details.Kevin tried it. He hired brilliant integrators. It never worked.Because some of us aren’t wired to be separated from our work. We need to feel it in order to create it. And pretending otherwise just delays the inevitable burnout.The real insight came from Carolina: “You’re not going to figure it out with your mind. You’re going to figure it out as you walk.”Kevin wanted that line embroidered on a pillow.He’s sitting on five completed interviews for his new channel. He knows exactly what he should do. He has a decade of experience telling other people to just start and see what happens.And he still hasn’t promoted it to his list.What This Means for YouIf you recognize yourself in Kevin’s hesitation, here’s what he said to try:Pull out a pad and paper. Get away from devices. Write out the things you actually love doing in your business. Then think about how you could emphasize those and shed the rest.Simple. Not easy.John Carlton once told Kevin: “There’s no promise you’ll come back from burnout.” That warning lands differently for anyone who’s been grinding for years, running launch after launch, building something that somewhere along the way stopped being theirs.The DeclarationKevin made a public commitment during the conversation: before his 56th birthday on February 23rd, he’ll release his first episode of Paid to Create on Substack.I put it on my calendar. August 18th, 2026, he’s coming back to show us what he built in six months. If he’s saying any of the same things then, in his words, “I’ll not only be much skinnier because I won’t be eating anymore. I’ll be really annoyed with myself.”We’re holding him to it.Where to Find KevinKevin’s been quietly building on Substack and he’s about to go loud. Here’s where to follow along:Paid to Create — His new channel interviewing creative business founders about the calling, the craft, and the commerce. First episode drops before February 23rd. Subscribe now so you don’t miss it: Men in the Middle Show — The podcast he co-hosts with Joe DeRoma about navigating the Middle Passage. They recently interviewed Dr. James Hollis himself, the psychologist who wrote the book on second-adulthood transitions. If anything Kevin shared today resonated, start here: Kevin spent 11 years creating one of the most generous communities in direct response marketing. He’s one of those rare people who made his career by genuinely helping others succeed first. Whatever he builds next, it’ll be worth watching.One Question Worth AskingKevin’s story reveals something that rarely gets said out loud: the gap between knowing and doing isn’t a knowledge problem. It’s a pattern problem.If you’re stuck in that same loop, wondering why you can’t seem to do the thing you know you should do, maybe it’s time to get curious about what’s actually happening underneath.The Business Harmony Map takes 5 minutes and shows you which of the 9 fundamental frequencies is creating your sticking point. It won’t tell you what to do. It’ll show you what’s getting in the way of you doing what you already know.Take the Harmony Map →Because Kevin was right about one thing: you can’t think your way to the answer.You find out who you are by walking.Thank you Monique Renée, Dennis Berry, Filip Sardi 🌊, Francis Nduati, Karen C-Collector of Books 📖, and many others for tuning into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Kevin Rogers and Carolina Wilke! Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

This is part of our Sacred Business Stories series — weekly conversations with people who are building businesses that align with their deepest truth, not just their training.In this episode, we sat down with Jane Riccobono, a midwife and founder of Wisebody, who is building a healthcare practice for women who know they deserve better and are ready to trust their bodies again — without abandoning medical support.Jane’s story is going to land especially deeply if you’ve ever felt “too sensitive” for the way your industry does things.When the system becomes a source of injuryJane didn’t leave healthcare because she stopped caring.She’s leaving it in the traditional sense because she cared too much to keep pretending 15-minute visits were enough.Day after day, she would sit with women whose bodies were clearly speaking:* Tears that showed up before words* Symptoms that didn’t fit neat boxes* A quiet sense that something deeper was trying to be heardThere’s a word for what happens when your job asks you to ignore that kind of truth over and over:Moral injury — the pain of participating in something you don’t fully believe in.Jane realized she could no longer treat her work, her values, and her body as separate projects. Something had to change.Trusting the wise body (hers and theirs)A thread that runs through everything Jane shared:The body isn’t the enemy. It’s the conversation.Instead of fighting symptoms, she started asking:* What is this pain trying to protect?* What is this fatigue saying about the pace of your life?* What happens when you’re actually heard, not rushed?That’s where Wisebody came from — a space where:* Spirituality is welcome* Medical training is respected* And a woman’s own body wisdom is central, not an afterthoughtThis is the same move so many of our people are making in their own fields:refusing to leave parts of themselves at the door just to stay employable.You can’t build a new way aloneEven after leaving the system, Jane tried to build her new practice by herself.Her honesty here was striking: she talked about how lonely and confusing it was to try to create an entirely new kind of care structure while unlearning the old rules.She reached a point where she realized:* Strategy alone wasn’t enough* She didn’t just need “more information”* She needed support while she implemented a truer visionThat’s a pattern we see in almost every sacred business:* Deep training? ✅* Real skill? ✅* Willingness to serve? ✅* Actual support for the transition? ❌Sacred work asks a lot of your nervous system. Trying to do it as a one-person ecosystem is often the invisible bottleneck.A question for youJane sees health as part of our transformation path — your body as a guide on the journey you’re meant to walk.Swap “health” for “business” and it’s the same:Your business is not separate from your life.Your patterns are not separate from your results.Everything is connected.So here’s the question I’d invite you to sit with after listening:Where is your body already telling you that the way you work isn’t quite right anymore?And a second one, if you’re honest enough to hear it:What kind of support would actually make it possible to build the business you keep thinking about?Listen to the full conversationYou’ll hear us explore:* Leaving a system that doesn’t fit (without burning everything down)* How to work with your body instead of overriding it for “productivity”* The difference between burnout and moral injury* Why trying to DIY a sacred business usually stops working at a certain levelIf this is where you are right now…If you’re in that in-between place — no longer able to do things the old way, not yet supported in the new way — that’s exactly who we created our Serve & Receive private partnership for.It’s a 12-month container where we:* Map the pattern that’s been running your business (using the Harmony Map)* Design a business around who you actually are now* Walk with you through the first year of implementation so you don’t disappear when it gets confronting👉 Book a Serve & Receive conversationNo pressure, no hard sell. Just an honest look at what’s going on under the surface and whether this kind of support is the right next step.With love,Phil & Carolina Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Bob Burg’s The Go-Giver has sold over 1.5 million copies in 30+ languages. The premise fits on a napkin: shift your focus from getting to giving, and you’ll make more money. Not because of karma or magical thinking, but because when people feel genuinely served, they buy. They refer. They become what Bob calls your “personal walking ambassadors.”We brought Bob on Sacred Business Stories for this special author spotlight because we kept bumping into his ideas with our own clients. The ones who struggle hardest with sales are almost never missing skill. They’re missing permission, the internal kind, to receive what they’ve earned. Bob has spent decades naming that exact problem. Here’s what he said.Show Notes[00:00] How This Conversation HappenedWe found Bob on our subscriber list. He’d been reading Sacred Business Stories for over a year without saying a word. That’s the kind of person he is: paying attention, showing up, no fanfare. Carolina and Phil share how the conversation came together and why Bob’s framework fits our community like a glove.[02:12] The Core Idea: Value Before ProfitBob breaks down the difference between price and value. Price is a number. Value is what the buyer actually experiences. His example: an accountant charges $1,000 but saves you $5,000 in taxes, hours of your life, and the peace of mind that it was done right. She gave more in value than she took in payment. You’re thrilled. She’s profitable. Both parties walk away better off. That’s the first law, and it’s the one most people get backwards.[07:06] The Five LawsLaw of Value: give more in value than you take in payment, including the experience, the empathy, the attention, not just the deliverable. Law of Compensation: your income scales with how many people you serve and how well. Law of Influence: place other people’s interests first, not as self-sacrifice, but because that’s how trust gets built. As Bob puts it: “nobody’s going to buy from you because you have a quota to meet.” Law of Authenticity: your most valuable gift is yourself, but Bob pushes back on the modern hijacking of that word. Authenticity isn’t “no boundaries.” It’s acting congruently with your value system. Law of Receptivity: giving and receiving aren’t opposites. They’re breathing out and breathing in.[14:08] The Receiving Block Most Entrepreneurs Won’t NameBob called out the unconscious anti-prosperity programming most of us absorbed before we were old enough to question it. Society, media, school, family, all of it installed the belief that making money from something you love is somehow wrong. He calls self-sabotage what it is: an inability to receive what you’ve earned. His advice? Make a deliberate study of prosperity. Read the teachers who help you make the unconscious conscious: Randy Gage, David Nagel, Ken Honda, Sharon Lecter, Bob Proctor, and others who specialize in dismantling these blocks.[16:44] “Does It Make Money?” Is a Great Question. Just Not the First One.We asked about the tension between purpose and profit. Bob didn’t soften it. Don’t start with “will it make money.” Start with “does it serve? Is there a market?” If yes, then ask the money question. If it won’t make money, you’ve got a hobby. Hobbies are fine. They’re just not a business.Then he flipped the frame: “Where was it that we learned that having fun and making money are dichotomous? We learned that from society.” Carolina added her research into the Portuguese word for work, trabalho, which comes from tripalium, an instrument of torture. That landed in the room.[23:01] Selling Is Giving. Literally.The Old English root of “sell” is sellan: to give. When you’re in a sales conversation, you’re giving time, attention, counsel, empathy, and value. A pitch is something you do to someone. A sales conversation is something you do for someone. Bob’s take on people who say “I hate selling”: “They don’t hate selling. They hate what they think selling is.”[25:14] Promoting Yourself Without Losing YourselfPhil asked Bob about feeling overly self-promotional. Bob’s answer: if you’re consistently giving value, your audience would be glad you told them about your product. The key is tying every promotion to how it benefits the other person. That’s not spin. That’s service with a clear invitation.[27:08] When Giving Doesn’t Seem to Be “Working”The question so many of our people carry: what do you do when you’ve been giving for years and it hasn’t come back? Bob broke it into two causes. The first, covering 95% of cases: you’re providing value as you see it, not as the market sees it. Value always lives in the eyes of the beholder. The second, covering the remaining 5%: you’re not letting yourself receive. You’re not asking for the order. And asking for the order isn’t a necessary evil. It’s an act of service, because you’re inviting someone to act on something they already told you they want. Bob added something that hit: “The chances are they actually need you more than you need them. They are one customer. But to them, you are that one solution.”[33:17] Take Action the Same DayIn the book, Pinder tells Joe he must apply each lesson within 24 hours. Phil connected this to what we call co-creation: you learn something, you act on it, you receive feedback, and then you adjust. Bob confirmed that an idea without action is just entertainment for the mind. A go-giver is also a go-getter. Just not a go-taker.[36:06] Michael Singer and the Highest Use of a LifeBob shared a quote from Michael Singer’s Living Untethered that he keeps taped to his computer: “The highest thing you could do with your life is to make it so that every moment that passes before you is better off because it did.” He reads it every day. It gave Phil goosebumps. It gave us something to sit with long after the recording stopped.Key Quotes“Shifting your focus from getting to giving is really where it all begins.” - Bob Burg“Money is simply an echo of value.” - John David Mann“They don’t hate selling. They hate what they think selling is.” - Bob Burg“The most self-interested thing you can do is to put your self-interest aside.” - Bob Burg“The highest thing you could do with your life is to make it so that every moment that passes before you is better off because it did.” - Michael SingerResources MentionedThe Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann (1.5M+ copies sold, 30+ languages)Living Untethered by Michael SingerThe Untethered Soul by Michael SingerThe Surrender Experiment by Michael SingerProsperity teachers: Randy Gage, David Nagel, Sharon Lecter, Lisa Peterson, Ellen Rogan, Ken Honda, Derek Kinney, Bob ProctorWhere to Find BobVisit burg.com to subscribe to his Substack column The Daily Impact, read free chapters from any of his books, and explore his work.’What This Means for YouEverything Bob described, the receiving block, the value misalignment, the guilt around charging, the inability to ask for the order, these aren’t random struggles. They’re patterns. And they connect directly to why you might know exactly what to do in your business but still can’t seem to do it consistently.The Business Harmony Map measures 9 frequencies across three dimensions of your life and business and shows you the one pattern creating the bottleneck.If you’ve taken the assessment and want to understand what your results mean for your next move, book a free Integration Call with Phil and Carolina. We’ll look at your specific frequencies together, talk about what’s working and what’s not, and tell you honestly what we think would help, whether that’s us or not.Book Your Integration CallThank you to Bob for his time and his generosity, and to everyone who joined live or caught this on replay.P.S. The full archive of Sacred Business Stories lives right here on Substack. If this one stuck with you, send it to someone who needs to hear that giving and receiving were never at war with each other.Thank you Josh Woll, Claire Machado, Maria Gehrke, Francis Nduati, Monika Rawat, and many others for joining us for this special edition of Sacred Business Stories with Bob Burg and Carolina Wilke! Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

You don’t need tens of thousands of subscribers to build a real business.You need 300 people who’ve actually talked to you.Jo Barnes has spent 15 years testing this idea across multiple six-figure launches, an e-commerce exit, and 45 countries traveled with a laptop. Her take: 30,000 passive followers who occasionally skim your content are worth less than 300 people who actually know your name.On this week’s Sacred Business Stories, she explained why most people fail at audience building. It’s not a strategy problem. It’s a visibility problem. And fixing it is simpler than you think.The Real Reason You’re Not GrowingJo runs strategy calls with aspiring entrepreneurs. She keeps seeing the same pattern.“What’s blown me away is how much creativity and talent people have,” she told us. One client had 20 published books on Amazon. Solid work. Real effort. But the books weren’t selling.Jo asked the obvious question: Who’s your audience?Silence.“That seems to be the sticking point. I’ve got this creativity and talent to build stuff, create stuff, launch products. But I stop when I have to go and actually build an audience.”Creating products feels safe. You can do it alone, in private. Telling people about them? Being visible? That’s where people freeze.Here’s what Jo said next that stopped me:“I think people feel that they have to reveal themselves in some way in order to do that.”That’s the real barrier. Not strategy. Not tactics. The fear of being seen.The 300 vs. 30,000 RuleJo’s been in online business since 2010. She watched Facebook go from a place where you could actually talk to people to a content farm where engagement means nothing.Her take: “You could have 30,000 people on your list. If you haven’t engaged with them, if you’re not connected with them, it’s 30,000 people who are just maybe reading your stuff every now and again.”Compare that to 300 people you’ve actually talked to. Responded to. Connected with.“That is so much more valuable than 10,000 people who you never speak to and who just occasionally watch a video.”I shared my own experience to back this up. My first online business generated multiple six figures consistently for years. The most I ever had on my email list? Fewer than 1,000 subscribers. Never broke that number. The difference wasn’t scale. It was clarity. Every person on that list knew exactly why they were there. The relationship was strong.The math isn’t about reach. It’s about depth.The 30-Day Challenge That Actually WorksMost people sit around wondering what brilliant insight to post. What amazing note will make people subscribe?Jo’s challenge flips that completely.For 30 days, don’t post your own content at all. Instead:Find people whose work resonates with you. Comment on their posts. Restack notes you find interesting and add why it mattered to you. Share other people’s stuff. Respond to comments on your own page like a human being, not a content machine.“If you did that a couple of times a day for the next 30 days, you would start to increase that engagement and that relationship building without a shadow of a doubt.”This isn’t theory. It’s how Facebook worked in 2010 when Jo built her first audience. It’s how Substack works now. The platforms that let you actually connect with people are the ones worth your time.One more thing: don’t use AI to respond to comments. “You can tell it a mile off,” Jo said. “Don’t do it.”Nobody’s Watching Your First Videos (Use That)Jo shared a stat: around 935,000 videos get uploaded to TikTok every hour.Her point? When you’re starting out, nobody’s watching. That’s not a problem. That’s freedom.“Those first videos you do, nobody’s watching. Nobody cares. It doesn’t matter. Just do it.”She found a content creator named Simon Squibb who’s now everywhere in the UK, doing street interviews, promoting his book. She went back and found his videos from four or five years ago.“They were terrible. Absolutely terrible. He was falling over his words. Talking about really boring stuff.”But he did two-minute videos every single day. For years. By the time anyone noticed, he was good. Now he’s got ads in tube stations.Nobody saw him practice. They only see him now.The Ego Trap for Experienced PeopleJo’s been doing this for 15 years. She’s had six-figure launches, sold an e-commerce business, built and rebuilt multiple times. And she still struggles with this:“I can’t look like a beginner again.”New platform. New rules. New skills to learn. Her ego says she needs to show up as the expert. That keeps her from being transparent about what she’s still figuring out.The shift came when she realized something: people don’t want to learn from untouchable experts anyway.“I think people want to learn from people who are like them. They want to relate. They want to feel that you’re going to trip up.”Someone once told her: “Jo, I learned just as much from the things you get wrong as I do from the things you get right.”She shared a story about one of her first webinars. Seventy people showed up. Great success. Then she couldn’t figure out how to turn it off. She’s fumbling, shaking, and finally admits on camera: “I’m ever so sorry, guys, but I can’t figure out how to turn this webinar off.”Someone came on and helped her. She thought it was over. Turned to her husband and swore. Then the comments started rolling in: “We’re still here, Jo.”She’d been sharing her mistakes all along. That’s why people trusted her.One Goal. Everything Else Feeds It.Jo still uses Facebook. But not to grow her Facebook page.“My goal is to increase my Substack subscribers. That’s my goal. Facebook feeds that goal.”She sees people spread thin across five platforms, trying to grow all of them at once. They post everywhere, respond nowhere, and wonder why nothing’s working.Pick one goal. Let every other platform serve that goal. You won’t get overwhelmed. You’ll stay aligned. And you’ll actually make progress.The One Thing You Must DoJo’s final point was urgent enough that she interrupted the wrap-up to say it.“If your goal is to monetize, please build that email subscriber database. It’s so important.”Platforms change. Facebook in 2010 felt like Substack feels now. Eventually the marketers descend. The algorithms shift. The magic fades.But if you have an email list of people who actually want to hear from you? They’ll come with you when everything else changes.“Whatever you do, please build that email database.”About JoJo Barnes runs The 50 Plus Nomad Club on Substack. Her motto is “Adventure never retires.”At 53, she’s currently backpacking through Brazil, heading to the Amazon, then Colombia and Central America. She’s also running a new e-commerce business and recently launched travel challenge cards on Amazon.If you want a practical picture of what building on Substack actually looks like, she recommends her post on how to make $2,600 a month in your first year. It follows a fictional character named Jane through 12 months of realistic growth: 47 followers by month three, a $9 PDF launch, small workshops, layered income. No hype. Just math.Find her at club.the50plusnomad.com or search “The 50 Plus Nomad” on Substack.What Jo’s Insight Means for YouJo kept returning to one idea: most people don’t fail because they lack strategy. They fail because they won’t be visible. They won’t engage. They won’t start while they’re still uncertain.The 300 people who matter aren’t going to find you while you’re hiding. They find you when you show up, talk to them, and keep showing up even when you’re still figuring it out.Resources MentionedBooks: The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss, The War of Art by Steven PressfieldPeople: Simon Squibb, Frank Kern, Ryan Deiss, Jeff Walker, Gary Vaynerchuk, James ClearThank YouThank you Dr. Tara Cousineau 💛, Rebecca Weston, Ani Chisom, Corine van der Werf, Noelle Richards, and many others who joined us live with Jo Barnes and Carolina Wilke! And thank you, Jo, for sharing so openly.P.S. All previous Sacred Business Stories episodes are in our archive. Each one covers what actually happened behind someone’s business, not just the highlight reel.Subscribe if you want next week’s conversation in your inbox. We do this every week because watching others figure it out, including the stumbles, helps you figure out your next move.If you read this and felt something click, your results will show you exactly where that pattern lives. 8 minutes.Take the Harmony Map Assessment → Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

We loved our first conversation with Dr. Kelly Flanagan so much that we wanted to bring him back for something different.This isn’t a regular episode of our show. It’s an Author’s Spotlight to support the launch of his new book, The Road Less Triggered, and to share his work with as many people as we can.Kelly is a clinical psychologist, author, and coach who’s been featured on The Five Love Languages and Today Show. But what grabbed our attention wasn’t his resume. It was his core insight: connection doesn’t break down between people. It breaks down within them.That idea is really imporant in how we think about relationships, and the way we show up when things get hard. Which is why we wanted this conversation to happen.Show Notes[00:00] Why We Brought Kelly BackWe don’t do this often. But when someone’s work directly applies to everything we teach about sacred business, we make exceptions. Kelly’s framework for staying open-hearted during conflict is too practical to keep to ourselves.[03:00] The Core Problem: Wanting Connection While in Protection ModeMost of us spend most of our time wanting to connect while simultaneously protecting ourselves. It’s a form of self-sabotage we don’t know we’re doing. Kelly calls it the grind of trying to connect when our impulse is actually to protect.When you close off and switch into protection mode, you lose access to creativity, communication, empathy, patience, and forgiveness. All the things you need most.[07:00] The New Year’s Resolution That Actually StuckEnd of 2020. COVID year. Kelly blew up his business partnership, damaged his closest friendship, got so triggered one afternoon he went on a frustrated bike ride and broke his arm in two places.Then he found a quote from Michael Singer: “Do not let anything in life be important enough that you’re willing to close your heart over it.”That hit harder than the asphalt road had. He made a resolution going into 2021: moment to moment, notice his heart closing and try to keep it open.The word “try” was important. He knew this would be hard.[10:00] The Peaceful Pivot Process (3 Parts, 9 Steps)Kelly spent five years developing what Michael Singer couldn’t teach him how to do. The result is a framework for turning triggers into togetherness:Part One: Get Calm* Sense your conflict coming using your body* Disrupt your defensiveness (watch your urges instead of wielding them)* Cultivate calmness before attempting connectionPart Two: Get Free* Get familiar with what’s hurting in that moment* Trace the story of that hurt throughout your life* Learn to feel it instead of defending itPart Three: Get Connected* Show up and express yourself* Stay curious instead of critical* Give yourself compassion so you can express it to others[12:00] The 80% Earlier Warning SystemHere’s the research that caught our attention: your body gives you 80% earlier warning that your heart is about to close than your thoughts or behaviors do.Kelly calls it interoception. Your sixth sense. You use it all the time without realizing it. When someone asks how badly you need to go to the bathroom, you use interoception. Your consciousness travels to an organ, does an assessment, reports back.You can harness that same superpower to notice when your heart is closing before you’ve already closed it.Everyone feels it differently. Some people feel it in the center of their chest. Others a little to the left, the right, down in the sternum, or in the gut. But it’s always somewhere between your waist and your temples.No one has ever said their toes cramped when their heart started to close.[19:00] The Mexico StoryOne year after starting his open-heartedness practice, Kelly’s family came back from a chaotic Christmas trip to Mexico. Machine guns. COVID restrictions. People extorting cash just to get back into the country.His daughter looked at him and said: “That must be why every time something went wrong, I looked at you and felt safe.”Kelly realized the practice wasn’t just changing him. It was changing the people around him even when they weren’t doing anything.A soothed nervous system soothes nervous systems. A calm soul calms souls. An open heart opens hearts.[26:00] You Only Control You (And That’s the Point)The part of us that wants to change the other person will feel deep injustice at this. But the wisest part knows we can only control ourselves.When you’re part of a pattern and you change your part, the pattern changes. Family systems theory shows this clearly. When one part of a system changes, the other parts first resist, then adapt.You are the environment in which your people live and move and exist. When that environment becomes calmer and safer, it influences how they show up.[31:00] Start in the Empty Parking LotKelly’s driver’s ed teacher used to say: “When I’m done with you, you’ll be able to drive on LSD.” He meant Lakeshore Drive in Chicago. But they didn’t start there. They started in an empty parking lot at the community college.Same principle applies here. Start with the small disappointments. The weather you didn’t want. The traffic jam. The cancelled plans.Kelly’s son tested positive for COVID on Christmas Day. They had to cancel the family gathering. Then his wife tested positive on New Year’s. More cancelled plans.These disappointments became training ground. If you can’t keep your heart open to small frustrations, how will you handle the really big ones?[34:00] A Book That’s Actually Fun to ReadKelly wrote a novel within the non-fiction. At the end of each chapter, you follow two fictional characters through a coaching session where they work through the exercises.His wife cried reading chapter six. That’s when he knew it worked.The book is built around the three-part process with nine steps total. But instead of dry descriptions in a box at the end of each chapter, you get story.[42:00] Building in PublicKelly brought each chapter to his Substack community during development. Monthly calls where they told him what worked, what didn’t translate, what was too complicated.His Substack is on its third name since 2023. That evolution reflects how much his understanding deepened as he built this in front of real people.[45:00] His Biggest HopeBy the time someone finishes the first chapter, Kelly wants them to have a new lens they can’t take off. Just to walk around noticing: my heart closed there. And there. Opportunities for transformation are everywhere.The ambitious version: he wants this book in as many hands as possible because our big human experiment is at a critical point. We’re going to have to take responsibility for showing up with open hearts if we want to miss the tipping point.The longest longitudinal experiment in human history out of Harvard has shown definitively that above every other factor, our sense of togetherness with our people determines our happiness.And here’s the kicker: how many times has being triggered resulted in more togetherness in all of human history?Zero.Key Quotes“Connection doesn’t break down between people. It breaks down within people.”“Do not let anything in life be important enough that you’re willing to close your heart over it.” — Michael Singer“A soothed nervous system soothes nervous systems. A calm soul calms souls.”“You are the environment in which your people live and move and exist.”“How many times have we ended up more together as a result of being triggered in all of human history? Zero.”Resources Mentioned* The Road Less Triggered by Dr. Kelly Flanagan (March 2025)* The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer* roadlesstriggered.com — Pre-order and get the first chapter immediately plus a 90-minute masterclass* Harvard’s longitudinal study on happiness and togethernessWhere to Find Dr. KellySubstack: Dr. Kelly Flanagan Thank YouThank you Josh Woll, Claire Machado, Jennifer O'Neill, drcharlesparker, Cecilia, and many others who joined us live and shared this conversation. Special thanks to Dr. Kelly for being generous with his time, his work, and his willingness to come back twice.P.S. Want to explore past editions? You can check them out here.What’s Next: Subscribe to get new episodes and essays delivered directly to you. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Ruben Hassid spent his childhood computer time writing blog posts about video game optimization instead of playing the game. His brother thought he was nuts. Twenty years later, that pattern, test things repeatedly, figure out what worked, teach it simply, built a 700K LinkedIn following and 230K+ on Substack.This week he shared what happened. Turns out his ChatGPT success in December 2022 came after a music label at 18, seven years of curation, and a ghostwriting gig in Berlin. The viral post was in many ways the result of a decade of practice.Show Notes[00:00] - Why He Keeps His Personal Brand ImpersonalHis siblings don’t know what he does. He doesn’t find backstory relevant to daily content. This conversation is an exception.[04:35] - Video Games to Content CreationAt nine, Ruben got obsessed with Guild Wars character builds. He wrote French blogs, realized the English forum had more readers, taught himself the language through Arctic Monkeys and comedy clips. The pattern: experiment, figure out what works, teach.[09:00] - The ChatGPT PostNovember 30, 2022. Berlin coworking space. He tested ChatGPT, spent a week reading academic papers, translated jargon like “few-shot prompting” into plain language, posted on LinkedIn. One million views in one post. 100K followers in three months. Then he went full-time.[14:30] - The “Go All In” MythIf you can’t build something while employed, you probably can’t build it without a paycheck either. Financial pressure makes you desperate. He overlapped a fintech job, ghostwriting, and personal content before making the leap.[20:45] - What “Master AI Before It Masters You” MeansNot fear-mongering about replacement. The real problem: average output is now free and instant. A $1,000 article from 2021 looks like “just some words” today. The only path forward is taste so specific it can’t be replicated for free.[26:00] - Engineers Are Breaking DownSince Claude Code’s Opus 4.5 release, thousands of engineers are posting on Twitter asking what they’re even for. They can build anything in hours. Problem: they don’t know what to build. The excuse is gone. What remains: do you have taste?[30:00] - Play Like a KidEvery cover on his newsletter features a child. Pick one task. Use one AI. Don’t obsess over tools. Get small wins first. We’re monkeys who need rewards.[34:00] - AI Forces Us to Be More HumanWhen Excel files and basic writing become automated, we go deeper. In the 1900s, 90% of Americans worked in food production. They couldn’t conceive of refrigeration, let alone the internet. Freed from survival labor, humans built things nobody predicted. Same pattern now.[40:00] - “I Am Just a Text File”He spent two hours answering Claude’s questions about his opinions, boundaries, writing style. Result: a markdown file, 1,000 lines, that captures his taste. Upload it anywhere, and AI writes like him. His grandchildren could talk to digital grandpa.[43:00] - Animating His GrandmotherHis mom lost her mother at 12. A handful of black-and-white photos. Ruben colorized them, created two-second animations. Sent one. His mom called crying. Her mother was moving.[49:00] - Substack Must Stay ProtectedOn LinkedIn, maybe half his comments are AI-generated now. He compares giving everyone AI tools to handing a rifle to a monkey. Paid access and ID verification are coming. He’s not against it.Two Quotes“The more you forget about making money, the more money you make. Real traction doesn’t happen when you focus on the money.”“Master AI before it masters you really means master it before you’re just average. Not because you’ll be replaced, but because why should anyone pay for your skill if average is free?”What You Can Do Today1. Build your taste file. Spend an hour answering questions about your opinions, boundaries, what you’d never say, how you’d phrase things. Save it as a document. Upload it to your AI projects.2. Pick one AI task and play. Not the perfect tool. Not comprehensive mastery. One thing. Approach it like a nine-year-old with a video game.Resources Mentioned* Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Speech (Ruben watches it yearly)* Claude Code with Opus 4.5* Cursor ($20B AI coding company)Where to Find RubenSubstack newsletter, twice weekly, Wednesday and Sunday. 100 breakdowns per year. Most is free.One Thing I’m Still Thinking AboutRuben said his grandchildren could have real conversations with digital grandpa someday. Then he paused and said he doesn’t know how to feel about it.Neither do I.What about you?How This Was MadeThis recap was built by uploading the show transcript as well as rambling my own thoughts via Wisprflow into a Claude custom project, containing our voice guidelines, then edited through four rounds: structure, skeptic audit, linguistic cleanup, and open-ending. The conversation took 56 minutes. The recap took longer. Thanks to Sam Illingworth for the tips on skepticism, and liguistics :) Ruben’s right. Taste takes time even when AI does the typing. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

What happens when a 15-year corporate veteran at Apple and Estee Lauder gets stranded in a foreign country during a pandemic with two young daughters, her husband and dog stuck on the other side of the world?She plants a lemon tree.This week on Sacred Business Stories, we sat down with Veronica Llorca-Smith, a Substack Bestseller, Penguin author, and international speaker who turned rejection into reinvention. At 41, with no network, no personal brand, and recruiters who couldn’t see her value, Veronica made a decision that changed everything: “If people can’t see my value, then I have to show it to the world.”Three years later, she runs what she calls a “Frankenstein business”: four published books, a 13,000+ subscriber community, digital courses, coaching programs, and speaking gigs across the globe. All built from scratch. All built in public.But here’s what I really appreciated about Veronica that I learned from this conversation. Veronica doesn’t wait until she has clarity to take action. She takes action to find clarity. That shift alone might be worth the price of admission.Every week, we write about getting clear, getting visible, and getting paid. Inner patterns and outer strategy. Join 25,000+ creators & entrepreneurs:Show Notes[00:00] The Origin StoryVeronica spent 15 years climbing the corporate ladder at companies like Apple and Estee Lauder. She thought that was her path. Then the pandemic happened, and she found herself locked out of Hong Kong for over a year with her young daughters (ages 3 and 5) while her husband stayed behind with their dog.In Australia, she hit a wall. No one valued her experience. No network. No credibility. [06:00] The Lemon Tree PhilosophyThe name isn’t just clever branding. It’s the core of everything Veronica teaches.“When life gives you lemons, not if, but when, use the seeds not just to make lemonade, but to plant your lemon tree.”Her first book, The Lemon Tree Mindset, came from documenting her own corporate-to-solopreneur transition. She turned her chaos into a framework others could follow. That’s the power of building in public.[08:00] Being Your Own Boss Doesn’t Make You a Good OneThis hit home. Veronica shared a recent post where she reflected on how solopreneurs often treat themselves worse than the worst corporate boss they ever had.Working while sick. Showing up when they’re having a terrible day. No self-compassion. No boundaries.Her insight: being your own boss is about setting frameworks and protecting your time. Nobody else will do that for you.[12:00] Clarity Comes From Doing, Not ThinkingMost people want to find clarity before they start. Veronica flips this entirely.“You find clarity by doing things. You start writing and very often you have these mental chaos and ideas start to become something or nothing. But doing helps you find clarity.”She didn’t have a niche when she started. She just wrote. First on LinkedIn. Then Medium. Then pitching podcasts. The shape of her business emerged through action, not planning.[16:00] Fear Is a Feature, Not a BugVeronica intentionally puts herself in situations that scare her. Every year since starting, she’s done something she’s never done before: live sessions, launching in Spanish (her native language, which gave her more imposter syndrome than English), digital courses, bigger stages.Her reframe: Instead of asking “what’s the worst that could happen,” she asks “what’s the best that could happen.”If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re probably just playing in your comfort zone.[23:00] The Multilingual Business ChallengeThis got interesting. Veronica speaks six languages and now runs her Substack in both English and Spanish. She’s noticed more creators asking how to write across multiple languages.But here’s the twist: she found more imposter syndrome in her native language than in English. “In my own language, it’s like, oh, this is not okay.” In English, she could afford mistakes as a foreigner.Carolina related. She’s writing in Portuguese now and says it feels like discovering a different version of herself.[28:00] Authentic Connection in the AI EraPolished content used to signal success. Now everyone can make polished content. So what actually differentiates you?Being human. Being real. Sharing the mess.Veronica flew to Singapore for a book launch that was, in her words, “a bloody disaster.” Less than 10 people showed up. They didn’t even have book copies. She could have pretended it didn’t happen. Instead, she wrote about it.The response? People thanked her for being real. It made the whole thing achievable and human.[36:00] Two Tactical Strategies That Actually WorkWhen we asked for something practical, Veronica delivered:Collaboration. Find someone to collaborate with. Guest posts, live sessions, interviews, panel discussions. She runs collaboration days where her premium members share what’s working, pitch ideas, and partner up. This alone has driven massive growth.Public Speaking. Even if it’s not your main thing, becoming comfortable with your voice opens new possibilities. Webinars, masterclasses, cohorts, corporate workshops. She filmed her digital course on an iPhone at home. Not polished. Just real.Key Quotes“When life gives you lemons, not if, but when, use the seeds not just to make lemonade, but to plant your lemon tree.”“Being your own boss doesn’t make you a good one.”“You find clarity by doing things. Very often people want to find clarity first and then do things. What I have found is that you often find clarity by doing things.”“Instead of asking what’s the worst that could happen, I tend to think what’s the best that could happen.”“We are not a newsletter. We are not a writing business. We’re a people business.”Resources MentionedThe Lemon Tree Mindset by Veronica Llorca-Smith (Amazon Bestseller, Finalist in 2024 International Book Awards)The Anti-Procrastinator by Veronica Llorca-Smith (Penguin)Where to Find VeronicaSubstack (English): The Lemon Tree MindsetSubstack (Spanish): El LimoneroWebsite: veronicallorcasmith.comLinkedIn: Veronica Llorca-SmithVeronica invites you to not just read her content, but get involved. Join the chat. Show up for live sessions. Her premium community runs regular collaboration masterminds where members share what’s working in 2026 and pitch partnership ideas.Ready to Transform Your Patterns into Breakthrough Results?Here’s what we’ve found working with hundreds of entrepreneurs: the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it isn’t a strategy problem. It’s a pattern problem.The same patterns that show up in your personal life, the ones that keep you stuck in analysis mode or avoiding visibility, those show up in your business too. Everything is connected.That’s why we created The Sacred Business Harmony Map. It identifies which of the 9 Frequencies is blocking your growth and shows you exactly what to work on first.If you’d like to explore working together, book your free Integration Call. We’ll walk through your results, connect the dots between your inner patterns and outer challenges, and show you what working with us could look like.Because your breakthrough isn’t just about business success. It’s about becoming who you’re meant to be through the vehicle of your work.Book Your Integration Call Here →Thank YouThank you Anfernee, Rocelyn ♡, The Messy Middle, Monika Rawat, and many others who joined us live from around the world: São Paulo, Hong Kong, and everywhere in between. And to Veronica, thank you for sharing not just the wins but the challenges, the doubts, and the messy middle. That’s what makes this real.P.S. Missed previous episodes? All our Sacred Business Stories recaps are available here. We invite you to explore.What’s Next: Hit the subscribe button if you haven’t already. Every week we bring you conversations with entrepreneurs who are building businesses that honor both their values and their vision for life. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Paollà Yáelli spent 17 years abroad, built a career with the U.S. government, and studied everything from Kabbalah to tantra to somatic work. Then she moved back to Brazil and had to start from scratch. Nobody knew who she was. And the first time she walked into a yoga studio to teach, people complained about her behind her back.This conversation cuts through the polished version of the entrepreneur story. Paola shares what it actually looks like to build community one person at a time, why comparing yourself to people who invest thousands in Instagram ads is a recipe for suffering, and the moment she stood in front of her class and told them they could leave if they didn’t like her style. What happened next surprised everyone, including her.Show Notes[00:00] Welcome and IntroductionPhil and Carolina introduce Paola Yaelli, founder of Alma Flow, a movement integrating spirituality and well-being. Paola teaches yoga and leads mentorships combining ancient wisdom with modern tools.[03:00] From Journalism to Yoga: An Accidental BusinessPaola shares how her business grew from life experience rather than a business plan. She studied journalism, worked on cruise ships in Europe, lived in Israel studying Kabbalah, then moved to the United States where her yoga practice began. While working 13 years with the American government in education, she kept building certifications on the side without knowing it was becoming a business.[07:00] The Spiritual Tools Get RealThe spiritual practices that felt easy during a stable career suddenly got tested when Paola returned to Brazil in 2022 with only one income stream and a community that didn’t know her. She describes the practice of “certainty beyond logic” that keeps her moving forward.[09:00] Fear As FuelPaola explains how fear doesn’t stop her. It enforces her. She wakes at 5am to practice yoga and somatic work before teaching five classes. The key: feel the emotions like waves in the ocean. Don’t deny them. Process them. Then you can hear where to go next.[14:00] The Playlist UltimatumThe story that captures everything. Paola was teaching at a traditional franchise yoga studio where everything was supposed to be standard. But she couldn’t help being herself. She started doing somatic work during practice. She asked students to scream. She played different music. People started whispering. They complained to management.She was terrified of the rejection. But she walked into the next class and stood in front of everyone. She said: “If you don’t like my music or my style, there are plenty of other teachers here. You don’t have to stay.”She thought the room would clear out. Instead, the people who stayed became her strongest community. Now they ask her: “Where is the scream practice? We need to scream today.”[18:00] The Cost of Fitting InCarolina shares how this moment moved her so much she talked about it with her own students. The lesson: you cannot be magnetic to the right people until you’re willing to be rejected by the wrong ones. If you keep trying to adapt to everyone’s boxes, you suffocate yourself. And a suffocating person cannot attract.[22:00] The 1000-Day Rule and Honest TimelinesPhil addresses the mythology of overnight success. He’s been building online businesses for a decade with schools that had thousands of students. That created traction that carried over. The comparison game is rigged when you can’t see what’s happening below the surface. A successful entrepreneur they interviewed talks about the 1000-day rule: if you haven’t given your business a thousand days, you probably haven’t given it enough time.[28:00] The Vessel Must ExpandPaola introduces the Kabbalah concept of the vessel. If you’re not where you want to be, your vessel hasn’t expanded enough to receive it yet. Like winning the lottery without knowing how to manage money. You’d spend it all. Sometimes the work isn’t strategy. It’s expanding your capacity to hold what you’re calling in.[36:00] Building Community Before ScalingPaola describes her approach to connection: community comes before scale. People want to be seen. They want genuine attention. One person who feels truly seen tells a friend. That friend brings another friend. Now she shows up to teach yoga at the mall and 55 to 60 people appear because the community is real.[46:00] Contentment Creates OpportunityThe best opportunities come from relaxed contentment, not desperate hustle. Paola shares how sitting in a coffee shop in LA, feeling good about her routine, led to an unexpected invitation to join an app project. It wasn’t what she expected, but it was what her vessel could hold at the time.Key Quotes“Fear doesn’t stop me. Fear enforces me. It gives me the attention.” — Paolla Yaelli“You cannot be magnetic to the right people until you’re willing to be rejected by the wrong ones.” — Sacred Business Principle“If you’re not in the place that you want to be, it’s because your vessel is not expanded enough.” — Paolla Yaelli“Sometimes it’s not about a strategy. Sometimes you just have to work more on yourself, build up your vessel.” — Paolla Yaelli“We open a business in six months. We want to be a super visionary success person. It’s different. It takes time.” — Paolla IyeliResources MentionedKabbalah wisdom and astrologyThe 10% sharing principle (giving 10% to expand your vessel)The 1000-day rule for building a businessWhere to Find PaolaSubstack: Search for Paollà Yáelli Instagram: @paoliayeliAlma Flow WhatsApp CommunityYour TurnPaola’s story reveals something most business advice won’t tell you: the gap between knowing what to do and doing it isn’t a strategy problem. It’s often an identity problem. Her lowest moment of potential rejection became the doorway to her strongest community.If you’re wondering why your business isn’t moving forward, consider: Is it a strategy issue? Or is it your vessel, to borrow Paolla’s language? Are you still trying to fit into boxes that were never made for you?Your business is always inviting you to become someone new. The question is whether you’re willing to use it as the container for both your evolution and your financial freedom.If you’d like to explore this for yourself, our Business Harmony Map assessment helps you identify which of the 9 Fundamental Frequencies is most seeking balance in your life and business. Your lowest frequency isn’t a weakness to fix. It’s a doorway to transformation.Take the free assessment at https://harmony.sacredbusinessflow.com and we’ll show you exactly where your patterns are creating your challenges.Thank YouThanks to Paola for her honest sharing. Thanks to everyone who joined us live. And thanks to this community for continuing to show up.P.S. Paola mentioned that many people don’t appreciate the spiritual tools they have until they’re forced to use them. The same is true for your business challenges. They’re not obstacles. They’re invitations to become who you’re meant to be. Everything is connected.What’s NextThis recap is from Sacred Business Stories, our weekly live conversation. Previous episodes are available in our archive. Subscribe to get notified when new episodes drop. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Letícia Tórgo spent 20 years building a career in communications, television, and theater production across three countries. She had contracts, credentials, recognition. By any standard measure, she’d made it.Then she hit 40. And something stopped working.What happened next is the kind of story that makes perfect sense in retrospect and no sense whatsoever in the moment. She signed up for two astrology courses at once (the teacher said no, she pushed back). Six months later, she had paying clients. Today she’s a Jungian psychotherapist, tarot reader, and astrologer working with clients in four languages across the globe. This conversation is about what it takes to actually make that kind of shift, and why the discomfort you’re feeling might be exactly the signal you’ve been waiting for.Show Notes[00:00] The Moment Everything Changed* Leticia describes what Jung called “metanoia,” the crisis that hits around age 40 when the old version of you simply stops working* Despite significant success in communications and television, she felt an undeniable pull toward something new* She pushed her teacher to let her take basic and advanced astrology courses simultaneously, unable to wait a year[07:00] Identity Death and Resurrection* Jung’s concept of personas: the masks we wear become prisons when we glue ourselves to a single identity* When Leticia announced her career change to her newsletter subscribers, many thought she’d lost her mind* Several clients from her old business followed her into this new chapter and remain clients today[13:00] The Fear Map You Actually Need* Fear isn’t the opposite of where you want to go. It’s the moat you have to cross to get there* Four zones: Comfort → Fear → Learning → Growth. No shortcuts exist* When you recognize fear as part of the path, you can almost welcome it: “Oh my God, I’m fearful now. So it means I’m on the good path.”[20:00] Reframing the F-Word* Fear and excitement produce nearly identical physical sensations* The word we choose shapes the experience. “Excitement” moves differently through the body than “terror”* Being an immigrant and being an entrepreneur share the same muscle: learning to draw strength from discomfort[25:00] Connection Without Performance* Leticia made “lots of mistakes” trying to figure out how to connect authentically online* Her breakthrough: creating a 15-video series analyzing “Women Who Run With the Wolves.” That content still brings clients today* The more you sound like yourself, the more the right people find you. When they unfollow, you’re getting closer to your real audience[31:00] Mistakes as Marketing* Recording from Italy means wine bottle trucks interrupt videos. She stopped editing those moments out* Making errors in public is becoming a quality signal in an AI-smoothed world* Being different just means being yourself, and astrology shows this even identical twins live vastly different lives[36:00] Advice for 2026: Slow Down* “If you’re not seeing beauty in your day, it’s because you’re walking too fast”* Our culture is so future-focused we’ve lost the present, which is, after all, already a gift* Routine itself is a ritual. Build more rituals into your business lifeKey Quotes“Angels are not going to come and say, now you are ready and let’s do it. Never. It’s not going to happen.” – Leticia Torgo“When you choose one persona and believe this is you, it’s a problem. Because when you need to take it off, it becomes a prison.” – Leticia Torgo“The more you are yourself, the better. First, because it’s not going to hurt you. And then because it’s going to be real.” – Leticia Torgo“If people don’t come, it’s because you don’t need them and they don’t need you. And it’s fine.” – Leticia TorgoResources Mentioned* Carl Jung’s concept of metanoia (midlife crisis)* “Women Who Run With the Wolves” by clarissa pinkola estés reyés * The Knight in Rusty Armor by Robert Fisher (the book about the man who can’t remove his armor)* Paulo Coelho’s works* Jung’s theory of personas and the ascendant/rising sign in astrologyWhere to Find LeticiaGoogle “Leticia Torgo” and you’ll find everything. She offers:* YouTube: Two channels, Pixie Arcana (Tarot) and her main channel (mixed topics)* Substack: Two publications, one for tarot/psychology and one for astrology* Instagram: Regular posts in Portuguese* Consultations: Available in Portuguese, English, French, and ItalianAnd yes, a reading makes a better gift than an object. She said it, we didn’t argue.Something Shifted?If this conversation sparked something, you might be ready to look at your own business through a different lens.The Business Harmony Map measures 9 frequencies that show where your inner patterns become outer challenges. Your lowest frequency isn’t a weakness. It’s a doorway.Take the free assessment and see what’s actually been blocking you: https://harmony.sacredbusinessflow.comThank you for being here. To our live viewers who caught this in real time, you know the magic of these unpolished conversations. To everyone listening on replay, welcome to the community.P.S. Missed previous episodes? You can find all our Sacred Business Stories here.P.P.S. Not subscribed yet? Hit that button. We send weekly conversations with entrepreneurs building businesses that actually mean something.Want to go deeper?Here’s how we can help you get clear, get visible, and get clients:* Take the Harmony Map Assessment (Free): Find out which pattern is blocking your clarity, visibility, or ability to get the right clients. 8 minutes. You’ll see exactly what’s been in the way, and why strategy alone hasn’t fixed it.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): The full philosophy behind how we work, why inner patterns create outer business challenges, and what it means to build from both sides.Get clear, get visible, get clients. Weekly insights on the inner work and outer strategy that make it happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

You Can’t Download Your Way Into a BusinessA pattern I see often and lived through myself goes something like this:You get a strong idea. It feels important, maybe even urgent. You build the outline, the offer, maybe even the landing page. For a moment, the whole thing feels inevitable.Then, as soon as it’s time to move it into the world, everything stalls.The enthusiasm fades.A new idea arrives.You shift your attention.Repeat.I spoke with someone recently who described this cycle almost word for word. Anytime an idea landed, she tried to build the entire business in one shot. The rush was real. So was the crash. It wasn’t that she lacked skill or follow-through — she simply had more ideas than she had structure to hold them.And that’s really the issue:Ideas are easy to produce.Businesses are not.I say that without judgment. The online world almost trains people to believe that inspiration equals progress. For intuitive or creative entrepreneurs, this is especially tricky. The internal world is vivid, fast-moving, and meaningful. When a new idea shows up, it often feels more right than whatever you were building yesterday.But when every new idea replaces the last, the business never compounds. It just resets.This isn’t about mindset. It’s not about “blocks.” It’s not even about discipline in the traditional sense. It’s about something much simpler:A business can’t develop if its owner keeps switching games.When the woman I spoke to said, “I haven’t shared the offer yet — it’s still landing,” she wasn’t making excuses. She was describing something a lot of people do: they finish the work but don’t finalize the commitment. The product exists. The pages exist. But the decision to stand behind it isn’t solid.Why?Because choosing one direction means setting aside a dozen others.And for people who are used to following inspiration, narrowing anything down feels like losing possibility.The irony is that constraint is the thing that makes any idea actionable. Without it, the business remains a sketch — detailed, thoughtful, and perpetually unfinished.Years ago, I had the same tendency. Fifteen different notes named some variation of “This could be something.” None of them became something because I was always waiting for a signal that felt unmistakable. That signal never came. What finally moved things forward was deciding on one path and building a structure around it.That word — structure — tends to make people tense. It sounds like rigidity, schedules, productivity hacks, and everything that drains the joy out of meaningful work. But structure doesn’t have to look like that. At its most basic, structure is just:• deciding what you’re building• deciding how it will work• deciding how people will find itAnd then giving those decisions time to play out.For the woman on the call, this didn’t require a complex system or a 12-week plan. She works best with spacious days, shorter sessions, and minimal context switching. She doesn’t want a weekly-standing-appointment kind of business. Fine. That’s workable. Her business can be designed around that.A simple container — something she can repeat — would do far more for her business than another flood of inspiration.Because what actually creates momentum isn’t the idea. It’s the stability around the idea.None of this is glamorous. It won’t produce a surge of adrenaline or a hit of transcendence. But it does something more important: it turns creative potential into something another person can recognize, trust, and pay for.And once a direction is chosen and supported with even modest structure, something interesting happens. Intuition gets clearer, not weaker. Instead of generating endless competing possibilities, it starts generating useful refinements inside a defined path.That’s when intuition becomes an asset rather than a distraction.So no — you can’t download your way into a business.Not because downloads aren’t real or valuable, but because inspiration has a short half-life. It’s only as strong as the structure that carries it forward.A business needs choices, commitments, and consistency. Nothing extreme — just enough to give your ideas a place to land and develop.Once that exists, the work becomes far easier. And the ideas don’t disappear; they simply stop competing with one another.If you’ve been living in cycles of excitement → execution → stall, the issue probably isn’t clarity or confidence. It’s that ideas are arriving faster than the structure needed to hold them.Build that structure — lightly, intentionally, on your terms — and you finally stop starting over. The business becomes real, not because you forced it, but because you gave it something tangible to grow inside.But here’s the part I’m still thinking about, and I don’t have a tidy answer for it:Every entrepreneur I know tries to strike a balance between inspiration and structure — enough to hold their ideas without suffocating them.Some find it early.Some never find it.Most experiment for a long time.Where is that line for you? How do you tell when structure supports you… and when it starts to get in the way?Want to go deeper?Here’s how we can help you get clear, get visible, and get clients:* Take the Harmony Map Assessment (Free): Find out which pattern is blocking your clarity, visibility, or ability to get the right clients. 8 minutes. You’ll see exactly what’s been in the way, and why strategy alone hasn’t fixed it.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): The full philosophy behind how we work, why inner patterns create outer business challenges, and what it means to build from both sides.Spread The LoveI was recently inspired by Sam Illingworth and his Slow AI Supporters Programme, and thought, how could we also bring attentions and support to some of the creators that we’ve been gifted to come into contact with here on Substack? So I’m going to try adding a share of something I feel deserves recognition with each of our essays. I like Sam’s idea of nominations and the concern for bias as well, so maybe I’ll swing back to that when I have a bit more bandwidth to think it through :) But for today, I bring you Disrupt the Pattern, Episode 009, by Josh Woll. Josh is out here doing beautiful work helping people quit drinking, and I feel his work deserves far more visibility. He’s also a creative genius with his ninja video skills. Check out this super cool video animation he made for his upcoming 30-day No Alcohol Challenge:Get clear, get visible, get clients. Weekly insights on the inner work and outer strategy that make it happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Jari Roomer spent years building a successful productivity business on Medium. He was earning real money, had thousands of readers, and by most metrics was winning the game. Then something unexpected happened: he started self-sabotaging.His subconscious had figured out what his conscious mind refused to accept. The topic wasn’t aligned with who he was becoming. The business that looked perfect on paper was slowly making him miserable. This realization became the doorway to everything that came next.Today, Jari runs Write Build Scale alongside Philip Hofmacher and Sinem Günel, teaching creators how to grow on Substack, build digital products, and create sustainable income through their writing. But what makes his story worth telling isn’t the success. It’s the honest reckoning about what it actually takes to build something real.Show Notes[00:00] - The “Unemployable” Advantage* Jari always had the itch to build something for himself, even though he thought business meant million-dollar loans and factories* After multiple full-time jobs at startups, he realized he was wired differently: even great environments made him miserable when he didn’t control his own schedule* Discovered Medium by accident and started writing about self-improvement and productivity* Met Sinem on Medium, turned on the Partner Program, and suddenly the online business became real[06:00] - When Success Stops Feeling Like Success* After four to five years running a profitable productivity business, boredom set in* Started asking the hard question: “How did I become the productivity guy when this isn’t what I’m meant to do?”* Recognized self-sabotage patterns appearing in clever, subconscious ways* The pivot to Write Build Scale came from following what actually energized him: business building itself[10:00] - The Alignment Principle* Kicking against a rock for 18 months because the work wasn’t connected to core values* Even a “successful” business can break you if it’s not aligned with who you are* Sometimes you have to go through misalignment to know what alignment actually feels like* The hard path often teaches exactly what you needed to learn[13:00] - The Partnership Question* Jari, Philip, and Sinem knew each other for years before forming a business together* Monthly mastermind calls built a foundation of trust before any formal collaboration* Regular check-ins where everyone can voice struggles or concerns prevent things from building up* Within the team, each person maintains independence in their creative work[17:00] - Fear as a Navigation Tool* Fear, resistance, and imposter syndrome are natural for content creators because you’re sharing yourself, not just a product* At every new stage of business, there’s a new level of “Can I really do this?”* If you’re completely comfortable all the time, you’re probably missing out on growth* The first Substack Live was nerve-wracking. Now it’s one of the most enjoyable parts of the week.[24:00] - Collaboration Without the Tactics* Moving from Medium (where content could just get selected) to Substack required a completely new muscle: reaching out to people* The rule: only collaborate with people who would be fun to meet in real life* If someone causes stress or brings negative energy, the collaboration ends regardless of their audience size* Connection that starts from genuine human interest often leads to the best business outcomes[33:00] - AI and the Coming Rebalancing* AI-generated comments are easy to spot and immediately kill the impulse to connect deeper* If everyone uses AI for content and comments, what’s even the point of social platforms?* We’re in the “terrible twos” of AI use, still figuring out where the balance point lives* In-person community and real human connection will become more valuable, not less[38:00] - The Universal Block* The biggest pattern Jari sees across creators: the feeling of not being good enough* This shows up differently for different people: not knowing enough, not being consistent, not believing people will pay* The execution gap isn’t a strategy problem. It’s a pattern problem.* That’s why their programs pair information with three months of group coachingWatch On Youtube👉 Subscribe to the Sacred Business Stories YouTube channel, where we’ll upload a video version of the podcast every week.Key Quotes“Knowing and not doing is the same as not knowing.” - Jari Roomer“I started self-sabotaging, basically. I had on paper a successful business. It was generating good money. But my subconscious found clever ways to self-sabotage.” - Jari Roomer“If I would just be super comfortable the whole time, I know that I’m probably missing out on some cool things and a lot of growth.” - Jari Roomer“I always have this idea: who would I be? What would it be like to just show up on a Substack Live and be totally loose?” - Phil“We only work with people that we truly feel it’s a pleasure to work with. Even if there’s creators with big audience sizes, but they’re a hassle to work with, we don’t work with them anymore.” - Jari RoomerResources Mentioned* Write • Build • Scale publication on Substack* The Four-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferris * Medium Partner ProgramWhere to Find JariCheck out the Write • Build • Scale publication here on Substack. Whether you’re focused on growing subscribers or launching digital products, they’ve organized content by stage so you can find what’s most useful for where you are right now.Want to go deeper?Here’s how we can help you get clear, get visible, and get clients:* Take the Harmony Map Assessment (Free): Find out which pattern is blocking your clarity, visibility, or ability to get the right clients. 8 minutes. You’ll see exactly what’s been in the way, and why strategy alone hasn’t fixed it.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): The full philosophy behind how we work, why inner patterns create outer business challenges, and what it means to build from both sides.Get clear, get visible, get clients. Weekly insights on the inner work and outer strategy that make it happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Some people teach what they know. Others live what they teach. Marc Angelo Coppola spent years in the first camp before making the jump to the second.He was Phil’s first coach, back when Marc was running events and masterminds for entrepreneurs chasing freedom. But something shifted. The man who once taught others how to build businesses decided to stop talking and start building. Not another course. Not another coaching program. An 88-acre permaculture farm outside Montreal where people can touch, taste, and experience what living differently actually looks like.This conversation cuts through the usual entrepreneur playbook. Marc doesn’t have a funnel to sell you into. He’s not promoting anything. He’s too busy learning how to be a handyman, build houses, and grow food. That’s the story.[00:00] The Long Winding RoadMarc knew he was an entrepreneur at 18, but not for the reasons you’d expect. He hated traffic. Hated the idea of everyone leaving at 9 and coming home at 5. So he bought into a failing indoor skate park with $15,000 monthly rent while still in school.Most people would call that insane. Marc agrees. But it worked. Over three years, he learned more about business on the ground than he ever did in finance and accounting classes. The real world felt more empowering than textbooks. It made him solution-oriented in ways school never could.[05:40] The Documentary PhaseAfter getting bought out at 21, Marc traveled and watched a documentary a week. He didn’t want formal schooling to steal his education. That habit changed everything. He started seeing patterns. Systems. The bigger picture of how things connect.Those documentaries planted seeds that wouldn’t bloom for years. But they shaped how he thinks about business, community, and what it means to build something real.[12:15] From Teaching to LivingMarc built Superhero Academy, ran masterminds, hosted events. He was good at it. But something felt off. He was teaching people how to live differently while living the same corporate-adjacent lifestyle himself.“I started asking myself, am I actually living this or am I just teaching it?” The gap between what he knew and what he was actually doing became unbearable. So he bought land and started building Valhalla Farms.[25:30] Be Both Batman AND Bruce WayneHere’s where Marc drops the framework that explains his whole approach:Most entrepreneurs hide behind their business. They’re Batman in the mask but won’t show you Bruce Wayne. Or they’re Bruce Wayne trying to seem relatable but never actually deliver the Batman-level results.Marc’s insight? Your customers need both. They need to see the person living the dream (Batman) and the human building it (Bruce Wayne). They’re not buying your products. They’re buying access to the life you represent.At Valhalla Farms, people don’t just buy eggs or honey. They’re buying proximity to someone who actually made the jump. Someone who isn’t just talking about regenerative agriculture or alternative living. Someone who’s doing it.[36:45] The Infrastructure Before the AudienceDuring COVID, Valhalla Farms exploded. They were the only place people could go. An essential service. The community ballooned overnight.But Marc wasn’t ready. Not enough infrastructure. Too many people showing up with questions and enthusiasm. So he did something most entrepreneurs would never do: he stopped promoting. Stopped telling people to come. Walked away from growth because the foundation wasn’t ready.“I realized we literally did not have enough infrastructure to deal with that many people showing up.”Most people would’ve just taken the money and figured it out later. Marc chose patience over profit. Spent the next five years building: greenhouse, coffee shop, washing station, deck, outdoor kitchen, house. Piece by piece. The right way.[42:10] Three Pieces of AdviceSomeone asked Marc what he’d tell entrepreneurs trying to build something meaningful. His answer wasn’t about strategy or tactics:First, understand your story. Really understand it. Not the version you tell at networking events. The real one. The one that actually drives you.Second, live your story. Don’t just teach it. Don’t just talk about it. Actually do the thing. Show people it’s possible by being the proof.Third, have someone else help you rewrite your story. You’re too close to see it clearly. You need outside eyes to help you articulate what you’re actually building.Key Quotes“The truth was that being in the real world, actually going out there and realizing it and doing it felt so much more empowering. It felt so much more real.”“I started asking myself, am I actually living this or am I just teaching it?”“We’re Bruce Wayne in our mind, but to them, we’re Batman. Because we’re living the dream that they have.”“Understand the story, live your story, and have somebody else who can help you rewrite it.”Where to Find MarcMarc’s on Instagram and YouTube, though he’s not actively building community digitally right now. He’s learning how to build houses, grow food, and scale patience. The Valhalla Movement podcast will relaunch at some point, but for now, he’s doing the work that matters most.If you’re in Montreal, you can visit Valhalla Farms, pick up a shovel, or buy eggs, honey, and garlic. The infrastructure is being built for larger entrepreneurial retreats and events, but that’s down the road.What This Means for Your BusinessMost of us are teaching things we haven’t fully lived yet. We’re sharing the strategy before we’ve proven the system. We’re Batman without ever showing Bruce Wayne, or Bruce Wayne without ever delivering Batman.Marc’s story asks a harder question: What if your breakthrough isn’t about better marketing or a new funnel? What if it’s about closing the gap between what you teach and what you live?Your business isn’t just a revenue stream. It’s a mirror. It reflects who you are and who you’re becoming. The question isn’t whether you can teach it. The question is whether you’re willing to live it.P.S. If you’re building a business that requires you to become someone new, the Sacred Business Harmony Map can help you identify exactly where your breakthrough is waiting. Then, Book your Integration Call to explore what’s actually blocking your growth. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Phil Drolet built his first successful business the hard way. He worked harder than everyone else, pushed past his limits, and sacrificed his well-being for external achievement. At 28, he was living what looked like the dream from the outside. But every morning, he woke up with a ball of anxiety in his stomach.That moment of reckoning led him to Peru, to plant medicine, and to a decade-long exploration of what he’d been missing: the feminine side of success. The intuition. The flow. The creativity. Phil spent the next seven years off social media entirely, diving deep into practices most entrepreneurs dismiss as “too woo” or impractical. What he discovered changed everything about how he approaches performance, business, and life itself.In this episode of Sacred Business Stories, Phil shares what happens when you realize your greatest strength has become your biggest limitation. And how integrating the parts of yourself you’ve been ignoring might be the only path to sustainable success.Show Notes[00:03:30] The Work-Hard Mentality That Almost Broke HimPhil grew up as an athlete in Quebec, Canada, with one core belief: he could work harder than anyone else. When he transitioned to entrepreneurship in his early 20s, he brought that same mindset with him.* Built a successful personal development company by age 28 using pure masculine energy: discipline, structure, effort, and push* Started waking up every morning with crippling anxiety and the thought “there’s so much to do today, how am I going to handle all this?”* Recognized the price of his approach: sacrificing his own health, sanity, and well-being for external success* This was 2013-2014, before mental health conversations were as mainstream as today[00:05:00] The Plant Medicine RealizationA series of plant medicine journeys revealed what Phil had been missing. He’d learned to build success using only one type of energy.* Realized he’d been operating solely from masculine energy while completely ignoring the feminine side: intuition, flow, and creativity* Understood that sustainable success requires balancing both energies, not choosing one over the other* Made the decision to spend serious time learning “the other side” he’d been neglecting* This began a decade-long journey of integration that continues today[00:05:45] Going Deep in PeruPhil didn’t just dabble in this work. He committed fully, spending extended time in the Sacred Valley and other parts of Peru.* Used Cusco as a jumping-off point for deeper spiritual work in the region* Humbled himself to learn practices and ways of being that were completely foreign to his athlete mindset* Recognized that life invites (or forces) us to cultivate whichever side we’re lacking so we can become more balanced* Spent years off social media (seven to eight years) to focus on this internal work without distraction[00:15:00] The Masculine/Feminine Balance in BusinessPhil explains how this isn’t just spiritual theory. It directly impacts how you show up in your business and life.* Masculine energy: discipline, structure, systems, pushing forward, making things happen* Feminine energy: intuition, receptivity, allowing, flow states, creative expression* Most entrepreneurs default to one or the other, creating either burnout or lack of results* True peak performance comes from knowing when to push and when to allow[00:30:00] Being “Too Spiritual” for Business PeoplePhil wrestled with a common challenge: how to bridge the gap between high performance and deep spirituality without alienating either audience.* Traditional business world sees spiritual practices as impractical or “woo-woo”* Spiritual communities sometimes view business success and money as “low consciousness”* The real work is integration: bringing both worlds together in a practical way* His approach: use spiritual principles to enhance performance, not escape from it[00:44:00] Why He’s Coming Back to Social Media (Via Substack)After nearly eight years off all social platforms, Phil is considering a return. But not to the places you’d expect.* Tried Instagram but his brain literally won’t let him stay on the platform* Discovering Substack feels different: calmer, more intentional, less posturing* Values long-form content and genuine community over algorithmic manipulation* Committing to “doubling down” on Substack rather than traditional social media[00:47:00] Finding Your “Ojai” (The Right Platform for You)Phil shares a powerful metaphor about trying different California cities before finding Ojai, the small mountain town that felt right.* Went to San Diego: “This is not it”* Tried LA: “Definitely not it”* Checked out Santa Barbara: “Hopefully it’s it... no, it’s not it”* Finally found Ojai and knew immediately: “Yes, this is it”* Same process with social platforms: Instagram no, Facebook no, TikTok definitely not... but Substack? “It actually feels good”Key Quotes“I had learned to build success solely using masculine energy: discipline, effort, pushing myself, structure. And there’s a whole other side to this equation, the feminine side. Intuition, flow, creativity. And right now I’m completely out of balance.” - Phil Drolet“When we’re just doing good work and being ourselves, it genuinely touches people and changes lives.” - Phil Drolet“I started to wake up every morning with this ball of anxiety in my stomach. Like literally from the moment I would open my eyes, just anxiety and this feeling of ‘oh s**t, there’s so much to do today. How am I going to handle all this? It’s going too fast. It’s too much, but I can’t stop.’” - Phil Drolet“I believe I can work harder than anybody and I can push myself further. Like that was my edge. So I did that and it worked. But after a few years... the price we pay is like our own health and sanity and just well-being.” - Phil DroletWhere to Find Phil DroletPhil is just beginning his journey on Substack. Follow him here to be part of his community from day one as he shares insights on balancing high performance with spiritual depth.The Pattern Behind Phil’s BreakthroughHere’s what strikes me most about Phil’s story: his greatest strength became his greatest limitation.The work-hard mentality that got him to success was the same pattern keeping him trapped in anxiety. The masculine energy that built his business was suffocating the other half of himself.This is exactly what we see in the Business Harmony Map. Phil was operating at high frequency in Discipline (his masculine drive and structure). But his lowest frequencies? Likely Faith if I had to guess (trusting the process instead of forcing it) and Simplicity (knowing when to stop pushing).Your breakthrough isn’t in doing more of what you’re already good at. It’s in developing what you’ve been avoiding.Phil avoided flow for years because discipline was working. Until it wasn’t. He avoided intuition because structure felt safer. Until it became a prison.The 9 Frequencies aren’t separate skills you master one at a time. They’re interconnected parts of a whole system. When one area drops too low, everything else suffers. When you strengthen your lowest frequency, everything else rises with it.Want to discover which frequency is holding your entire business back?Take the Business Harmony Map assessment. It reveals your breakthrough frequency in under 10 minutes. Not your strength. Your doorway to transformation.The same place Phil was stuck might be where you’re stuck right now. Take the Business Harmony Map →Your lowest score isn’t a weakness to fix. It’s the pattern your business has been asking you to address all along.Thank YouTo everyone who joined us live on Substack: Mihai Dragomirescu, Michael Patrick Cassabon, Stan Holt, Corine van der Werf, and so many others who showed up in real time. Your presence made this conversation what it was. There’s something different about going live together versus just publishing content into the void.Carolina and I do these every week, and honestly, if a week goes by without one of these conversations, something feels missing. These aren’t just interviews. They’re the highlight of our week.Special gratitude to Phil for being vulnerable enough to share his story. When leaders admit they were wrong about how success works, it gives everyone else permission to stop pretending.And if you’re reading this now but couldn’t make it live? Join us next time. The energy is different when we’re all together. You’ll get an alert in the app when we go live again.P.S.This conversation is available as both audio and video for all Sacred Business Stories subscribers. We create detailed recaps like this one for every episode because we believe the insights deserve more than a quick listen and forget.What’s Next?If you’re not subscribed yet, you’re missing weekly conversations like this one. Every week we bring on entrepreneurs who’ve built businesses that align with their deepest truth. No posturing. No guru tactics. Just honest conversations about what actually works when you refuse to sacrifice yourself for success.Subscribe to Sacred Business Flow to get episode recaps, behind-the-scenes insights, and weekly reflections delivered straight to your inbox.Join us. This is where the real conversations happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Sometimes the very thing that makes you successful is the same thing blocking you from everything you want.That’s exactly what happened to Darla LeDoux. She built a successful engineering career at Procter & Gamble, came from a town of 500 people in northern Minnesota where no one went to college, and became a senior engineer. By all accounts, she had made it.But something was missing. And when she discovered what it was, everything changed.Today, Darla is a transformational retreat leader and bestselling author of Shift the Field and Retreat and Grow Rich. As founder of Sourced, she guides coaches, consultants, and healers to offer and deliver deep transformational work with their magical gifts - especially through groups and retreats. She combines her practical engineering background with deep intuitive insight to help clients harness their Sourced Magic, the unique way Source works through them in service of transformation.Darla joined us for Sacred Business Stories to share her path from corporate engineer to retreat leader. Her story reveals a truth many of us face: the identity we build to survive can become the cage that prevents us from thriving.Show Notes[00:00] The Sacred Tap on the ShoulderDarla was nominated for a coach training program within Procter & Gamble that changed everything. While getting trained to help people have better working relationships, she had to work on her own biases first.Key insights:* In her 20s, Darla didn’t realize her childhood filters were affecting how she experienced life and business* She had this aha moment: “Why doesn’t everybody know this?”* This discovery led to 9 years of searching for a career where she could help people understand that their beliefs affect their energy, and their energy affects their results[02:12] The Smart Girl TrapDuring a Landmark Education training, Darla uncovered a belief that had been running her entire life. When she was young, her dad (who didn’t come around often) was really proud of her for being smart. That one moment created her entire identity.The pattern:* “I will be smart” became her operating system* She asked her math teacher: “What’s the hardest type of engineering?” because that’s the one she was going to do* She didn’t even know what an engineer was* She got the hardest job to get on campusThe breakthrough: “My attachment to being smart was in the way of everything I ever wanted. It seemed not smart to quit your corporate engineering job and become a life coach.”Once she saw the pattern, she was free.[06:40] The Structure StoryRight now, Darla is going through another identity death around structure and organization. She was the one in her family who created order - made sure her siblings had dinner while her parents worked. Being structured became who she was.What she’s learning:* Structure can be a tool you use, not who you are* The patterns we create to survive often outlive their usefulness* Ego death is part of growth, and it keeps happening at deeper levels[09:04] Energy Work and Business SuccessDarla talks about the connection between energy and business results.The core insight: For 16 years, all she’s really been selling is an energy shift. From her “Inner Alignment Intensive” retreat (which she named intentionally, even though she didn’t tell her coaches because she knew it wasn’t an “outcome-based” name) to her current work - it’s always been about the internal shift creating the external result.The Inner Alignment Intensive example:* She gave it a tagline: “Raise Your Rates While Staying True to You”* Small groups of 16 people doing deep inner work* It made her millions of dollars* At the time, she thought it was crazy and nobody would come* But it really worked“Your willingness to engage with and understand energy will literally change everything in your business. We’re getting more and more where people understand this connection between energy and results and are more willing to invest in energy.”[14:22] The Intuition ParadoxHere’s something you might not expect from a recovering engineer: Darla says intuition is actually the most logical thing you can do.Why it matters:* We have access to way more information than our conscious mind can process* Intuition helps you cut through analysis paralysis* Learning to work with energy isn’t spiritual bypassing - it’s smart businessShe shared a powerful example: When someone had a big reaction to her work, instead of making it mean something about her business, she recognized it as their personal resistance coming up. That clarity let her stay grounded and keep moving forward.[18:33] Hosting Your Own Retreat Changes EverythingDarla shares two strategies for building authentic connections and finding your message:Strategy 1: Go to events and retreats* She can map her entire network back to specific events* These connections have grown her confidence and created a global community of peers* In-person connection makes all the difference, especially if you grew up without people who truly saw you or validated this career pathStrategy 2: Host your own retreat* Even if it’s tiny - six people in your living room* You’ll say things in the moment that make people go “ah!” and start writing* You’ll learn what you do through doing it, not sitting at home figuring it out* Both of her books came from questions people asked her during retreats* People would pull her aside and say “I just want a business like yours. How do you do this?”* That’s why she created “The Anatomy of a Transformation” - her framework for filling retreats and making a business from themWhy this works: Your Sourced Magic will figure out how to structure everything in the moment. Your deep commitment to helping someone is going to make the information come through.[26:41] Sacred Business and IntegrationCarolina and Darla discuss how business and spirituality can’t be separated.Carolina’s perspective: “I can’t separate anymore from my own life. There’s no way I can have a business that’s separate from my evolution, my spirituality, my life. It’s just like that. The inner and the outer - shifting your energy so you can see the result outside, and then the outside being a reflection of what’s within. Everything is connected.”Why people are starting to understand this: Little by little, people are accepting that what’s happening inside is what’s showing outside. It’s not coincidence. When you explore deeper, you see the connection.The key to success: When Darla’s Inner Alignment Intensive worked, it was because she was so committed to it. “As we work on ourselves and we bring more surety and less self-doubt, the results totally change. We could say the exact same words.”Carolina adds: “It’s the density of the idea. You believe so much and it has been working for you so well that now you have that whole body or energy work behind that idea that’s not empty anymore. Now it’s based on experience.”[30:25] The Virtual Event That Came Through in MeditationDarla shares how her upcoming December event came to her during her daily meditation practice. She wasn’t looking for business ideas. She was just sitting in darkness.The download:* Clear vision of a virtual three-day event* Specific structure and imagery around “Free Your Light”* The concept of “un cloaking” - that we aren’t doing anything wrong by having our default energy patterns (she calls them “cloaks”), but now is the time to trust that we’re connectedThe message was clear: “You’re fine. You don’t have to heal anything else. You don’t have to fix anything else. It’s just like, show up.”[34:42] The Magic of In-Person ConnectionBoth Darla and Carolina emphasize something crucial: Don’t forget that you can establish real connections offline.Why it matters:* Darla’s business grew from going to other people’s retreats and speaking* She got clients from casual conversations at events* In-person connection changes how you show up online“The experience of making an offer to a group of people in person who have been with you and you’ve guided their transformation - they’re so receptive to the offer. People want it.”Carolina adds: “When you establish connection in person and put yourself out there, that’s what feeds your online business.”Key Quotes“My attachment to being smart was in the way of everything I ever wanted.” - Darla Ledoux“Your willingness to engage with and understand energy will literally change everything in your business.” - Darla Ledoux“I can’t separate anymore from my own life. There’s no way I can have a business that’s separate from my evolution, my spirituality, my life.” - Carolina“It’s the density of the idea. You believe so much and it has been working for you so well that now you have that whole body or energy work behind that idea that’s not empty anymore. Now it’s based on experience.” - Carolina“When you establish connection in person and put yourself out there, that’s what feeds your online business.” - CarolinaResources Mentioned* Landmark Education - Personal development training program* Sourced - Darla’s company focused on transformational retreat facilitation* Activating Magic - Darla’s public podcast* Alchemy with Darla D - Darla’s private podcast (through end of 2025)* Ultimate 57-Point Checklist - For world-class transformational retreatsWhere to Find DarlaInstagram: @darlaledoux Link Tree: Access to free gifts including the 57-point retreat checklist and private podcastUpcoming Event: Virtual three-day experience, December 11-13, 2025Everything Is ConnectedHere’s what we know: Your business isn’t separate from your spiritual growth. The patterns that keep you stuck personally are the same ones blocking your business success.Darla’s story shows us that the breakthrough isn’t just about learning new strategies. It’s about recognizing the invisible beliefs running your life and having the courage to release them.When you’re willing to do both the inner work AND build the outer systems, something shifts. Your business stops being something you force into existence and becomes something you co-create with a intelligence much larger than yourself.That’s what we mean by Sacred Business. It’s not just about making money or having freedom. It’s about using your business as a container for your evolution while building something that actually supports the life you want to live.If Darla’s journey resonated with you, we’d love to support you in discovering your own patterns and building a business that honors both who you are and what you’re here to create.Ready to discover what’s really blocking your business growth?Take the Sacred Business Harmony Map Assessment to identify your lowest frequency and understand the specific patterns affecting your business results. You’ll get immediate insights into the inner work that will create your biggest business breakthroughs.Book your Integration Call to explore how addressing both your inner patterns and outer strategy can transform your business.Because everything is connected. When you shift the root pattern, everything else changes.Thank you for being here with us.We’re building a community of entrepreneurs who understand that business success and spiritual growth are the same path. If this conversation sparked something in you, we’d love to have you join us for future Sacred Business Stories.P.S. All previous episodes are available in our archive. You can catch up on conversations with other entrepreneurs who are building businesses aligned with their deepest truth.What’s Next: Join us next week for another honest conversation about what it really takes to build a business that brings all of who you are forward while supporting the life you’re excited to live.This episode was a reminder that sometimes the thing we’re most proud of is the very thing we need to release. And that on the other side of that release is a freedom we can’t even imagine from where we’re standing now. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Dan Roitman started his first company from a college dorm room and grew it to $100 million over 15 years. This conversation might feel different from our usual Sacred Business episodes. Dan speaks the language of metrics, optimization, and traditional business strategy. And that’s exactly why this matters.If you’re someone who typically flows with intuition and resists “business talk,” I invite you to listen with fresh ears and an open heart. See what’s here for you. Take only what’s useful. Because hidden inside this very practical approach are lessons that could unlock something you’ve been avoiding.Dan is someone I truly see as a business genius. After two mastermind retreats with him, I would take any opportunity to pick his brain. This conversation offers you that same chance.Show Notes[00:03:00] - Getting Started: The Power of Taking Risks YoungDan talks about starting entrepreneurial ventures as a kid, from mowing lawns to selling candy at school. His perspective on timing: take your biggest risks when you’re young and have less to lose. Most people don’t do this, even though it’s when you can afford the maximum risk.• The “kitchen table business” approach works well when you have responsibilities and need low-risk options• Starting aggressive ventures in your early twenties makes more sense than waiting until you have a family and mortgage• Your entrepreneurial instinct usually shows up early, even if you don’t recognize it as that at the time[00:06:15] - The Unexpected Path: From Music to BusinessDan earned a full scholarship for jazz commercial composition after teaching himself guitar and practicing 2-3 hours daily, eventually scaling up to 6 hours a day. But two years into music school, he realized music was becoming mechanical and he didn’t want to be a starving musician.• He studied music while simultaneously taking business courses, keeping his options open• The realization that he could apply creativity to business became a turning point• Sometimes your talents point you toward a path, but your goals take you somewhere else[00:15:45] - The Thousand Day Rule: Your New Business TimelineThis might be the single most valuable framework Dan shares in the entire conversation. If you’re starting a new venture, planning to launch something, or wondering why your business isn’t “there” yet, this will change how you think about time.The thousand day rule is simple: be willing to invest a thousand days into a new business before expecting major results. That’s roughly three years. Not three months. Not even one year. Three full years of showing up, figuring things out, iterating, learning.• Most people quit long before the thousand days are up because their timeline expectations are completely unrealistic• This isn’t about working harder for three years - it’s about giving yourself permission to learn, adjust, and grow without the pressure of immediate massive success• Some things genuinely take time to figure out, especially around advertising and finding what actually works for your specific business• The alternative “hundred day rule” applies when you’re joining an existing business - you need a clear plan to add value within that first hundred daysWhy this matters: Dan spent two years trying to figure out display advertising for his first company - they were already successful, but it still took two years to crack that specific channel. Once they figured it out, they could suddenly spend $1-2 million per month on it profitably. But it took two years of persistent effort.The thousand day rule removes the shame of “not there yet” and replaces it with realistic, sustainable patience. This is the permission you might need to keep going.[00:28:30] - From Text Scanning Pens to Language Learning EmpireDan’s first company didn’t start as a clear path. He saw an ad for a text scanning pen while visiting his dad in Europe and realized he’d had that same idea years earlier. He convinced a Swedish professor to fly with him to Sweden to pitch the company, got $10,000 in funding, and launched at University of Maryland.• The text scanning pen business was going well until the company switched to security applications• Dan had to pivot and find a new product, landing on professional development products• About a year later, he discovered language learning and the Pimsleur brand - an amazing audio-based methodology that wasn’t marketed well• This became the business he scaled to close to $100 million in revenue, making it the #2 language learning brand in the US• The growth went from $5,000 on a credit card for an advertising buy to eventually $3 million a month in media spend[00:35:20] - Where Confidence Really Comes FromDan’s approach to business is grounded in solving real problems and measuring what works. His confidence didn’t come from belief or manifestation - it came from creating something that actually worked and seeing the results.• He built his tutoring company because he needed it himself - that gave him certainty it solved a real problem• Early validation came from students using the platform and getting results• This practical, metrics-driven approach might feel uncomfortable if you’re used to more intuitive business building - but there’s wisdom here about testing and proving your concept[00:42:15] - Teaching Kids What School Won’t: The Miller Moguls SeriesAfter selling his company, Dan wrote a children’s book series teaching 8-14 year olds about entrepreneurship and financial literacy. The books follow three siblings who lose their allowance and have to learn how to create value.• The series currently has six books available, with six more coming soon• Each book teaches different business principles through story and struggle• Dan self-published to maintain control over the message and approach[00:48:30] - Tax Optimization for High EarnersBeyond the books, Dan now leads a tax optimization firm helping US entrepreneurs earning $500K+ save up to 40% on taxes (typically $150K per million dollars of EBITDA).• This service specifically targets American citizens with established businesses• The focus is on legal strategies that most entrepreneurs don’t know exist• Financial optimization matters, but it’s not the whole storyKey Quotes“If somebody’s looking to get into business, the best thing to possibly do is just to get started. The question is just how you start.” - Dan Roitman“Some things just take time to figure out. You just got to be willing to invest a thousand days into a new business and know that it could be a thousand days of figuring things out.” - Dan Roitman“When you’re younger, it’s better to take more aggressive risks. If you have no family, no kids - you’re probably at the age where you can take the maximum risk. Most people actually don’t do that.” - Dan RoitmanResources MentionedMiller Moguls Book Series* Website: millermoguls.com* Six books currently available teaching kids entrepreneurship and financial literacy* Target age: 8-14 years oldJarvis Morris Tax Optimization* Website: jarvismorris.com* For US entrepreneurs earning $500K+ annually* Potential savings: Up to 40% on taxesBoundless Life* Travel school program mentioned for families wanting to explore world-schooling optionsWhat Makes This Conversation DifferentThis episode of Sacred Business Stories might not sound like your typical Sacred Business conversation. Dan speaks in numbers, metrics, and traditional business strategy. There’s no talk of frequencies, inner work, or spiritual principles here.And that’s exactly why it matters.If you felt resistance while listening, that resistance is information. If the practical, optimization-focused approach felt uncomfortable, that discomfort is showing you something. The work isn’t to become more like Dan - it’s to take what’s useful from his approach and integrate it with your own truth.The thousand day rule? That’s universal wisdom dressed in business language. The idea of taking maximum risk when you’re young? That’s about listening to your life’s timing. Building something that solves a real problem? That’s about being of service.Dan is a business genius who’s built something real and lasting. His approach works. The question is: what parts of this wisdom are you ready to receive?Ready to explore how structure and essence can work together in your business?We support entrepreneurs in addressing both the patterns that keep them stuck AND building the complete business roadmap to move forward. This isn’t about choosing between intuitive flow and practical strategy. It’s about recognizing you need both.Book your Harmony Map Integration Call where we’ll map your unique frequency patterns and create a clear path forward for both your personal evolution and your business growth.Thank you for being part of the Sacred Business community. These conversations happen because you show up, because you’re willing to question the typical entrepreneurial path, and because you know there’s a better way to build.P.S. This conversation is available as a replay on our Substack. Watch the full 59-minute discussion to hear Dan’s complete story and the nuances that didn’t make it into this recap.What’s Next: Join us every week for Sacred Business Stories where we have honest conversations with entrepreneurs who are building businesses aligned with their deepest truth. Subscribe on Substack to never miss an episode. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

We sat down with Dr. Kelly Flanagan —award-winning author, licensed psychologist, and founder of The Less Triggered Tribe for a conversation that went straight to the heart of what it means to build a business that doesn’t just succeed, but transforms you in the process.Kelly’s story isn’t your typical “I had a plan and executed it” narrative. His path has been one of following breadcrumbs, listening to intuition even when it didn’t make logical sense, and learning that the moments we get most triggered are actually our greatest invitations to grow. After a partnership dissolved, COVID hit, and a bike accident left him with a broken collarbone, Kelly made a New Year’s resolution that changed everything: to notice when his heart was closing and practice opening it back up.What emerged from that practice became his life’s work: a nine-step process for navigating triggered moments that don’t create conflict, but instead lead to deeper connection. This is the work that his upcoming book, The Road Less Triggered, is built on.Show Notes[00:00] - From Academic to Practitioner* Kelly’s turning point in his PhD program: “I just want to work with clients all day, every day”* The realization that hit him like awareness “happening to him” rather than being calculated* Why research wasn’t his path, even though it looked good on paper[04:15] - The Breadcrumb Trail of Building a Business* How a 15% insurance rate cut forced Kelly to diversify his income* Starting a blog with six readers—and one person who asked “what are you writing next week?”* The viral moment that led to The Today Show and changed everything* “Nothing I’ve planned has worked out. It’s worked out better because I didn’t stay tethered to the plan”[12:07] - The New Year’s Eve That Changed His Life* Rock bottom at the end of 2020: business partnership dissolving, COVID stress, broken collarbone* The Michael Singer quote that became his turning point: “Don’t let anything in life be important enough that you’re willing to close your heart over it”* Making the resolution to notice his heart closing and open it back up—moment to moment* The voice in the driveway that said “let it die” when he finally opened his heart to the truth about his practice[23:00] - Understanding the Difference Between Fear and Resistance* Why your survival instinct is healthy and necessary (don’t step off the cliff!)* How resistance masquerades as fear—and why it actually points you toward your growth* Steven Pressfield’s wisdom: “The more important a call to action is to our soul’s evolution, the more resistance we will feel”* The nervous system activation test: “Am I being confronted by a tiger, or did my wife just ask where the bananas are?”[27:00] - The Peaceful Pivot Process* Part one: Learning to get calm and regulate your nervous system first* Why trying to connect with someone else to calm yourself down has “worked zero times in human history”* The powerful pause: seeing what you want to do defensively—and choosing not to do it* “Open-heartedness doesn’t make you weaker, it makes you wiser”[32:00] - Pattern Problems, Not Business Problems* Why most entrepreneurs don’t have dozens of different situations to solve—just one or two pain points underneath everything* How triggered moments in business, relationships, and parenting are often rooted in the same core wound* The liberation of discovering your pattern: “This is something I can actually affect”* Moving from “everyone else is the problem” to taking personal ownership[38:00] - Building Authentic Connection Online* Why consistency is king—but not in the way you think* Treating your audience like relationships: “If you only showed up sporadically to your kid’s soccer game, they’d emotionally wall off”* The practice of pausing for 10-15 seconds when someone subscribes to honor the reality of that human connection* “Remember the one”—every person is working their ass off to make their life better and choosing to spend time with you[42:00] - The Fraud and the Imposter* Why Kelly will say “I’m in imposter syndrome today” from stage—and how it instantly breaks the spell* The competitive advantage of intimacy when you’re just getting started* “Don’t let that be the thing that gets in. Don’t feel like you can’t start this thing till 40 people show up in the room”* “We all have that. We all worry. Be the fraud. I’m a fraud. I’m an imposter. Exactly.”Key Quotes“Nothing I’ve planned has worked out. It’s worked out better because I didn’t stay sort of tethered to the plan.” - Dr. Kelly Flanagan“Don’t let anything in life be important enough that you’re willing to close your heart over it.” - Michael Singer (quote that transformed Kelly’s life)“Open-heartedness doesn’t make you weaker, it makes you wiser.” - Dr. Kelly Flanagan“There’s no relationship problems. There’s only individual problems that get worked out in relationships. There’s not a business problem. There’s a pattern problem that’s getting worked out in the business.” - Dr. Kelly Flanagan“The more important a call or action is to our soul’s evolution, the more resistance we will feel toward pursuing it.” - Steven Pressfield, The War of ArtResources Mentioned* Book: The Road Less Triggered by Dr. Kelly Flanagan (releases March 3, 2026)* Book: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield* Book: Lovable: Embracing What is Truest About You by Dr. Kelly Flanagan* Teacher: Michael Singer and his work on open-heartedness* Community: Front Row Dads (mentioned as connection point for Kelly, Matt Sprang , and Ryan Levesque)Where to Find Dr. Kelly FlanaganSubstack: drkellyflanagan.substack.com - The Less Triggered Tribe community Website: drkellyflanagan.com Upcoming Book Pre-Order Bonuses: Join his Substack by December 2025 to receive $350 worth of free bonuses when you pre-order The Road Less TriggeredYour Business Isn’t Separate from Your Growth—It’s the Container for ItIf Kelly’s story resonates with you, there’s a reason.The triggered moments in your business—when a client pushes back, when you resist raising your prices, when you feel paralyzed about showing up online—those aren’t distractions from your work. They’re the work itself.Your business challenges aren’t business problems. They’re pattern problems. And just like Kelly discovered that one New Year’s Eve, when you learn to notice your heart closing and practice opening it back up, everything shifts. Your relationships transform. Your business grows. Your energy changes.This is exactly what we help entrepreneurs understand through the Sacred Business Harmony Map.Our assessment measures the 9 fundamental frequencies that create the foundation of a sustainable, soul-aligned business: Connection, Growth, Vitality, Discipline, Service, Simplicity, Faith, Love, and Bliss.Your lowest frequency—the one seeking the most balance right now—isn’t a weakness to hide. It’s your doorway to liberation. It’s where your trapped energy is waiting to be freed. And when you transform that pattern, you don’t just improve your business metrics. You literally free the life force energy that’s been locked in old survival patterns.Take the Harmony Map Assessment and discover your unique energetic blueprint for business growth. You’ll receive your personalized results showing exactly which frequencies are in balance and which ones are calling for your attention.Then, if you’re ready to go deeper, we’ll invite you to a free Harmony Map Integration Call where we’ll:* Create space for you to share what’s really happening in your business (not what you think you should say)* Explore what your specific frequency patterns mean for your unique situation* Discover what kind of support would feel most helpful for where you actually are* See if there’s alignment for us to work togetherThis isn’t a high-pressure sales call. It’s an open conversation where you can share what’s true for you with people who deeply understand the inner patterns that affect business success.Take the Harmony Map Assessment →Thank YouThank you to everyone who tuned in live and to those listening on the replay. Your presence in this community matters. If this conversation sparked something in you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.And thank you, Kelly, for your vulnerability, wisdom, and willingness to share your transformation with us. We’re grateful.P.S. If you missed previous episodes of Sacred Business Stories, you can find them all here. Each conversation explores how entrepreneurs are building businesses that serve their evolution, not just their bank accounts. What’s Next: Subscribe to our Substack to receive weekly insights on building your sacred business, invitations to our live calls, and first access to new offerings. New here? Welcome. Sacred Business is about refusing to fragment anymore—bringing your whole self to your work, integrating your spiritual growth with your business growth, and building something that serves both profit and purpose. If that resonates, you’re in the right place.Ready to discover your unique energetic blueprint for business growth? Take the Harmony Map Assessment and receive your personalized results today. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Building a sacred business isn't about having perfect systems or the ideal launch strategy. Sometimes it's about sending one email to 25 people and being willing to feel terrified on a Saturday morning.That's exactly what Anand Rao did three years ago when he launched his developmental mastery practice. With a theoretical physics degree from Cambridge, decades in the oil industry, and years of personal development work behind him, Anand discovered something important: your work in building your business IS your spiritual evolution.This week's conversation explores how to bridge the gap between expanded consciousness and practical business building - and why the resistance you feel isn't something to overcome, but something to work with.Show Notes[00:02] From Academic Excellence to Personal Crisis* The "good Indian boy" path: straight A's, Cambridge University, parental approval - and complete misery* How academic achievement can create a narrow, underdeveloped life experience* The middle-year crisis that sparked a 30-year personal development path* Why comparing yourself to others (especially at elite institutions) creates false standards[00:05] The Consultant's Awakening: Taking Charge of Your Own Structure* The scary transition from employee to entrepreneur at age 33* How moving from "here's what you do this week" to "now what?" forces adult development* Why building your own life structure is simultaneously exciting and terrifying* The shift from seeking external validation to creating internal frameworks[00:11] Starting a Business with One Email and Zero Infrastructure* How Anand launched his program with 25 people, no website, and a simple PayPal checkout* The power of "just start next Tuesday" vs. waiting for perfect conditions* Why month one brought only one signup - and why that was perfect* Building through iteration rather than perfection[00:16] Treating Resistance as Your Growth Edge* "The strength isn't developed while you're doing the exercise - it's a signal to your consciousness to evolve to meet the challenge"* Why fear and resistance are the "grit and gristle" that help you grow* How to choose activities based on emotional intensity (3-5 out of 10) rather than task size* The difference between working with your feelings vs. fighting them[00:32] The Power of Patterns Over Amounts* Why your brain operates on patterns, not absolute numbers* How meditating one minute twice daily builds the habit of "sitting down to meditate"* Why starting with the smallest example of what you want creates massive shifts* The Weber-Fechner effect: how our brains process relative rather than absolute significance[00:38] AI and Human Superintelligence* The question: "Where's the human superintelligence to match artificial superintelligence?"* Using AI to enhance human evolution rather than replace human capacity* Why choosing "too easy" options (like fast food) can atrophy our growth capacity* The balance between efficiency and maintaining your edge[00:47] From Expanded States to Embodied Action* Why people who aren't grounded struggle to manifest in the physical world* The importance of making "physical artifacts" even in our digital age* How to bridge the gap between spiritual insights and practical implementation* "Make your goals out of plasticine" - telling your brain you're creating something realKey Quotes"When someone turns up on Monday morning and says here's what you have to do for the week, versus you get up on Monday morning and it's like 'okay, now what?' - you have to make the structure for yourself." - Anand Rao"Your work in building your business is your spiritual evolution and personal development." - Anand Rao"The only thing that gets in the way of taking action is that you're afraid a feeling is going to come up, and you don't like that feeling." - Anand Rao"Rather than trying to get rid of fear, I don't see it as an obstacle or a problem. It would be like going to the gym and going 'it's such a shame these weights are heavy.'" - Anand Rao"Our brains operate according to patterns more than they do according to absolute amounts." - Anand RaoResources Mentioned* Developmental Mastery : Change that works - Anand's approach combining multiple modalities for human development* Havening and EFT - Emotional regulation tools for nervous system downregulation* Bilateral Stimulation - Simple hand-to-hand throwing for nervous system regulation* Polyvagal Theory - Understanding nervous system states and regulation* TAT (Tapas Fleming Technique) - Alternative emotional regulation method* Andrew Huberman's breathing methods - Practical nervous system tools* Brad Yates - EFT tapping practitioner with 380K YouTube subscribers* Michael Simmons Blockbuster Blueprint - Substack publication on AI and human developmentWhere to Find AnandSubstack: developmentalmastery.substack.comWebsite: developmentalmastery.comFree Saturday Coaching Club: Live demonstrations every SaturdayUpcoming Program: Recursive Self-Evolution (MMM13)Anand offers free sessions with no obligation - focused on "surprisingly elegant change" by working with your systems rather than against them.Thank YouThank you to everyone who joined us live and to those engaging with the replay. Your questions and insights make these conversations richer for everyone.P.S. If you missed previous Sacred Business Stories episodes, you can find them all in our archive. Each conversation explores how successful entrepreneurs integrate their authentic selves with sustainable business practices.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Rebecca Weston about her 12-year spiritual journey on the Camino de Santiago and Elena Brower on finding balance between sacred work and authentic pricing.Ready to amplify the voices your community needs to hear?If you want to create your own interview series to highlight the amazing people in your network and inspire your audience, we have the exact systems that make it simple.Inside the Sacred Business Network, you'll find:* Our proven outreach scripts for booking perfect-fit guests* The Claude prompt system that transforms any transcript into engaging content* Simple technical setup that requires no fancy equipment Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Matt Sprang thought he was building his dream when he broke ground on a state-of-the-art swim school facility in 2016. Instead, he found himself staring at an email from his lawyer suggesting bankruptcy - with over $800,000 in debt and a half-built facility that wouldn't open.What happened next transformed not just his business, but his entire understanding of success, self-worth, and what it means to show up for the people who matter most.In this raw conversation with Sacred Business Stories, Matt shares how hitting rock bottom became the foundation for rebuilding everything — including himself.Show Notes[00:00-10:00] From Swimming Champion to Business Owner* Matt's 40-year swimming journey from age 6 to Division III All-American* Transitioned from coaching part-time to becoming head coach* Founded Greater Philadelphia Aquatic Enterprises after convincing school district to exit swim business* Built vision for "cradle to grave" swimming program with new facility[10:00-20:00] When Dreams Become Nightmares* Three-year search for location and funding finally succeeded in 2015* Construction began May 2016, expected to open September 2016* By Thanksgiving, facility incomplete with major construction errors* All SBA loan funds exhausted with no path forward* February 2017: Lawyer recommended bankruptcy as only option[20:00-30:00] The Moment Everything Changed* Brief moment considering life insurance policies as "way out" for family* Three-year-old daughter's "I love you, daddy" became turning point* Wife (a psychologist) helped him see suicide as "short-term solution to long-term problem"* Decision: "I can't control winning the lawsuit, but I can control doing everything possible"[30:00-40:00] Fighting Through the Storm* Became his own legal researcher and investigator* Wife battling adrenal failure requiring 40mg prednisone daily* Raising two toddlers while coaching athletes and fighting lawsuit* "There were plenty of days where I couldn't see the finish line"* Settlement finally reached in September 2019[40:00-50:00] When You Think It Can't Get Worse* Six months after settlement: COVID shut down business for 100 days* Lost home pool, swim school closed for over a year* Applied lessons from first crisis to survive pandemic* Acquired another program in 2021, doubling size but masking lost passion* Tony Robbins' UPW helped realize need for change[50:00-60:00] The Real Transformation: Inner Work* Maine cabin experience: "I did not like the person I was alone with"* Joined Front Row Dads community for personal growth* Discovered pattern of making decisions based on others' expectations* Somatic breathwork helped access deeper healing* Learning to forgive others and, more importantly, himself[60:00-70:00] The Edge of Known: New Beginnings* Sold business in August 2024 after quick sale process* Launched "The Edge of Known" Substack about standing at comfort's edge* Now helping executives and entrepreneurs who burn out at work* Core message: "You can be successful in business AND very successful at home"* Writing about USA Swimming's transformation needsKey Quotes"The gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it wasn't a strategy problem – it was a pattern problem." - Matt Sprang"I made the decision that I wasn't going to be able to control winning or losing any lawsuit. But what I could do is everything within my power to make being victorious possible." - Matt Sprang"We control very little in life, but we can influence a lot." - Matt Sprang"If I'm not part of the problem, I can't be part of the solution, so I have to look within first." - Matt Sprang"Winning at home is so much more important than winning at business." - Matt SprangResources Mentioned* The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer* The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer (recommended during interview)* Front Row Dads - Men's community focused on family leadership* Tony Robbins' Unleash the Power Within - Transformational seminar* Somatic Breathwork - Body-based healing practiceWhere to Find Matt* Substack: Matt Sprang (The Edge of Known)* LinkedIn: Matthew Sprang* Website: MattSprang.comThank YouDeep gratitude to Matt for sharing such a vulnerable and powerful story. To our Sacred Business community members who show up week after week — your presence makes these conversations possible.P.S.Matt recommended two potential future guests: Dr. Kelly Flanagan (author and Front Row Dad) and Wayne Goldsmith (youth sports coaching expert from Australia). We'll be reaching out to continue bringing you transformational business stories.What's NextIf this story resonated with you, you might also appreciate our conversation with Ryan Levesque about building businesses that support your vision. Access all previous Sacred Business Stories episodes in our archive.Other episodes to check out: Sue Reid about turning trauma into triumph and building confidence from rock bottom and Cindy Childress on owning mistakes and building something meaningful from rejection.Not part of The Sacred Business Network yet? Join our paid substack community of conscious entrepreneurs building businesses that honor both inner truth and outer success.Missed previous episodes? Find all our Sacred Business Stories conversations in the archive.Not yet subscribed? Join our community of heart-centered entrepreneurs here.Go DeeperCarolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

What happens when your PhD and seven-year work gap get you automatically rejected from every job you apply to? If you're Cindy Childress, you build a thriving ghostwriting business that launches bestselling books and transforms experts into authors.In this week's Sacred Business Stories conversation, Cindy shares how she went from zero publishing experience to writing three books in her first year - with two becoming Amazon bestsellers. Her secret? Embracing failure as data and understanding that mistakes are just invitations to serve your clients better.The most powerful moment came when Cindy revealed a story she'd never shared publicly before. During her second client interview, she thought she was recording on Zoom but wasn't. No notes. No recording. Just a blank page where chapter two should be. "I sent it to her and she was like, this is horrible," Cindy recalls. "And I said, yes, it is." That moment of radical honesty transformed their relationship and taught her the principle that guides her business today: people want you to fix mistakes, not hide them.Show Notes[00:00] - The Unexpected Path to Ghostwriting* Started with a PhD in English and creative writing background* Lived overseas for 7 years, creating a work gap that blocked traditional employment* Stripped her resume from PhD to Master's to Bachelor's - nothing worked* Pivoted to personal training where she discovered her gift for sales (85% conversion rate)[00:04:26] - The Business Birth Story* Crying to her husband about feeling stifled led to "Why don't you start a business?"* Bought her first domain that same night* Completed three books in first year (2017) with two becoming bestsellers* Learned that clients care more about your thinking than your portfolio[00:07:01] - The Recording Disaster That Changed Everything* Failed to record crucial second chapter interview* Had no notes and no way to recreate the content* Chose radical honesty: "Yes, this is horrible"* Discovered that owning mistakes builds more trust than perfection[00:15:00] - Breaking the Expert Trap* New writers often try to prove themselves by dumping information* Stories are the vehicle for knowledge, not the other way around* You can share experiences without claiming false expertise* "I helped a person with this problem" vs. "My client..."[00:18:37] - When Is It Time to Write Your Book?* You're saying the same thing over and over again* People ask "Have you written a book about this?"* The idea of going all-in for 2-3 years feels expansive, not constraining* You want to do it, not just think it's a good business move[00:22:00] - The Evolution from Ghostwriter to Guide* Started documenting processes to find her unique IP* Realized she had enough material to teach others* Chose to work with authors over managing ghostwriters* Created "Crank Out Your Book in Eight Weeks" during pandemic[00:26:45] - Being Too Precious Can Paralyze* Yesterday spent 2 hours accomplishing nothing on celebrity swipe copy* Recognized she was being "precious" - expecting perfection* Solution: Own it with the client and get over herself* No single paragraph will make or break a projectKey Quotes"When we mess up, the people that we're serving just want us to fix it. They don't want us to bandaid over it and pretend like we didn't make a mistake." - Cindy Childress"I think a lot of people create mistakes that aren't real, thinking that they must have this giant portfolio. Like in my experience, it's not looked at." - Cindy Childress"Everything is in a book and that's okay too." - Cindy Childress"We don't have to solve all the problems. We just need to pick one and solve it really, really well." - Cindy Childress"The level of vulnerability that I demand from my clients in order to do a great job for them, I have to give it to them if I want to have it back." - Cindy ChildressWhere to Find Cindy* Website: cindychildress.com* Quiz: cindychildress.com/quiz - Discover Your Number One Best Selling Author Personality Quiz* Facebook: Cindy Childress PhD* Substack: Follow her newsletter for writing insights Ready to Transform Your Business Story?Cindy's story shows us something important: the patterns that make us feel like failures are often our greatest teachers. Just like she transformed a recording disaster into a trust-building principle, your business challenges are invitations to become who you're meant to be.Thank YouDeep gratitude to everyone who joined us live and to those catching the replay. Your questions and engagement make these conversations richer for everyone. Thank youSpecial thanks to Cindy for her radical vulnerability in sharing her "failure" story for the first time publicly. This is exactly the kind of honest conversation that helps us all grow.P.S.Got a burning question for Cindy's workshop that we’ll be offering in September? Drop it in the comments or send it our way. She's committed to addressing what you most want to know about writing your first book.What's NextNext week we're exploring another Sacred Business Story with enterpreneur Matt Sprang. Until then, remember: everything is connected. Your personal evolution and your business evolution are the same path.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Suzy Ashworth about going from high school dropout to 7-figure coach and Matt Sprang on rebuilding after an $800K debt crisis.Missed previous episodes? Find all our Sacred Business Stories conversations in the archive.Not yet subscribed? Join our community of heart-centered entrepreneurs here.Thank you Bill Cusano (Nonprofit Author), Sonia Singh, FZK, and many others for tuning into and many others for tuning into Episode 21 of Sacred Business Stories with Cindy Childress and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️and Carolina Wilke.Go DeeperCarolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

After 25 years of marriage and running multiple businesses together, Jay and Cory Fiset were on parallel tracks heading toward the inevitable end of their relationship. They'd spent five years trying everything - therapy, coaching, working on their patterns - but nothing was bridging the growing distance between them. Then in February 2020, a single MDMA journey changed everything, not just saving their marriage but birthing an entirely new business helping other couples find their way back to connection.In this deeply personal conversation, the Fisets share how they went from being "hard no" on psychedelics for five years to becoming leading voices in the functional psychedelics space. Their journey from running personal development seminars in the 1990s (when people asked "what's a facilitator?") to pioneering couples' psychedelic retreats reveals profound lessons about following market wisdom while staying true to your lived experience. Most importantly, they demonstrate how your greatest personal transformation often contains the seeds of your most meaningful business contribution.Show Notes[00:00] The 25-Year Breaking Point* Heading toward their 25th anniversary while "coasting to the inevitable end"* Living parallel lives - great parents and partners but missing soul connection* Spending more time coping than creating in their relationship* The repeated invitations to try MDMA that they rejected for 5 years[00:06] The Transformation That Changed Everything* Jay's solo MDMA journey in February 2020 revealed the wall between them* Every brick in the wall had a story about why relationships crumble over time* The shift from "you do this, I'll do that" to "I'm going to transform myself"* How COVID lockdown gave them thousands of hours to reinvent their connection[00:17] From Corporate Pioneers to Sacred Business* Running personal development seminars in 1991 when no one knew what that meant* The 15-year struggle to make $1 million pushing "rope uphill"* Learning to listen to the market instead of pushing what you think people need* The mastermind success story: 42 sales from 65 people on first webinar[00:39] Building The Connection Experience* People noticed their transformation: "What the f*** have you done to her?"* Creating their "adventure and ritual" practice every six weeks* The moment people started asking for help with their own relationships* Developing protocols around their own transformation experience[00:46] The Power of Vulnerable Marketing* Creating the "Fireside Chat" video answering couples' top 10 questions* Corey's challenge with sharing intimate details publicly* The lineup of 60 women after sharing about sexual healing at a conference* Why you need to "share the thing you don't want to share"[00:52] Education, Trust, and Threshold Experiences* The three-circle model for any transformational business* Why the psychedelic space requires extra care with trust-building* Creating safety protocols and turning away clients who aren't a fit* The importance of choosing guides wisely (beware the "wackadoodles")Key Quotes"The beautiful part about that journey was I came home 100% clear for the first time ever that the transformation had to be led by me... I need to get on with my life. I'm going to lose weight, fix my teeth, grow my hair, and engage. I would love for you to come with me, and I expect that you can't." - Jay Fiset"We got really curious because in that space, we really dove into this idea of how is it that two people that love each other this much have gotten to this ridiculous spot? It wasn't 'whose fault is this?' It was like, how on earth did we devolve to this?" - Jay Fiset"Learn, build, teach. If I can't build it, I didn't learn it. When I do that well, people always show up and go, 'Hey, how'd you do that?' And depending on my interest and willingness, I will tell them or I won't." - Jay Fiset"To get your message out there, you really need to be vulnerable and share the thing. And it's probably share the thing that you don't want to share." - Corey Fiset"If you're truly fascinated by something and it's moving you, learn, build, teach. Watch for the intersection of my interest, my love, my fascination, and marketplace interest. When those things intersect, everything has become so much easier." - Jay FisetResources Mentioned* The Connection Experience (couples psychedelic retreats)* Foundations Guide Certification (psychedelic guide training)* Fireside Chat video (top 10 questions for couples considering psychedelics)* "How to Choose a Psychedelic Guide" guides (for couples and individuals)* Science of Psychedelics conferenceThe Sacred Business ConnectionJay Fiset and Cory's story perfectly illustrates a core principle we teach at Sacred Business Flow: the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it isn't a strategy problem - it's a pattern problem.For five years, they struggled with their relationship, recognizing they needed support and hiring help. As Jay said, they "did a bunch of stuff" and were "trying to work on this and fix it" - yet remained on parallel tracks heading toward divorce. It wasn't until they addressed the deeper pattern of separation that transformation became possible. This same principle transformed Jay's business approach: after 15 years of pushing personal development "rope uphill," he finally learned to listen to what the market actually wanted rather than what he thought they needed.Their journey reveals how multiple frequencies work together to create breakthrough. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zone (Growth) after years of saying "no" to psychedelics, combined with the discipline to create their "adventure and ritual" every six weeks (Discipline), rebuilt their intimate connection (Connection). When they began sharing their story vulnerably—even the parts Cory didn't want to share—they discovered their true service (Service) and reconnected with joy in both their relationship and work (Bliss).What's particularly powerful is how they demonstrate that vulnerability isn't just personal growth -it's a business superpower. When Cory shared about sexual healing at a conference, 60 women lined up to talk with her. Their willingness to "share the thing you don't want to share" became the foundation of their new business helping other couples.Ready to discover which frequencies are seeking balance in your own business journey? Take the Business Harmony Map Assessment to identify the patterns that may be keeping you from your next breakthrough. Because like Jay and Cory discovered, sometimes the very thing you've been resisting contains the seeds of your sacred work.Take the Harmony Map Assessment →What resonated most with you from Jay and Cory's story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.Thank YouDeep gratitude to Jay and Corey for their vulnerability in sharing such a personal journey and the wisdom they've gained from decades of pioneering work. Their willingness to "share the thing you don't want to share" creates permission for all of us to bring our full authentic selves to our work.P.S.If this conversation sparked something in you about integrating your personal transformation into your business offering, hit reply and let us know what resonated most. These stories matter because they show us what's possible when we stop separating who we are from what we do.What's NextNext week on Sacred Business Stories, we'll be exploring the power of authorship as sacred work with Cindy Childress, The Expert's Ghostwriter. With 49 books published through her A-List Author Studio (including 16 bestsellers), Dr. Cindy has mastered the art of helping experts transform their wisdom into books that create both income and impact. We'll dive into how writing your book can become a spiritual practice, why your message matters more than your writing skills, and how to move through the resistance that keeps most experts from sharing their deepest work with the world.Until then, remember that your greatest challenge often contains the seeds of your greatest contribution. The question is: are you willing to share it?If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Elena Brower on the meaningful exchange in sacred business and Anand Rao about making your business a spiritual path.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Go DeeperCarolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

After 25 years of teaching leaders how to harness wonder and curiosity for breakthrough ideas, Jeffrey Davis has discovered something worth sharing: the people who flourish amid complexity aren't the ones with all the answers - they're the ones who've learned to dance with not knowing.In this week's Sacred Business Stories, we explored how wonder becomes a "quiet disruptor of our biases" and why your greatest business breakthroughs often come from embracing uncertainty rather than fighting it.Show Notes[00:00] Wonder as a Business Strategy* Wonder isn't a luxury—it's a birthright we're born with* Defined as "an astonishment of the soul" that helps us see what's real and true* When people actively track wonder, it changes how they work and lead* The difference between falling in love with an idea vs. standing in love with it[00:08] The Pivotal Crisis That Changed Everything* Jeffrey contracted Lyme disease 4 times* A devastating house fire destroyed 20 years of work and 300 books* This led to the defining question: Why do some people flourish amid crisis while others flounder?* Discovery that wonder is at the heart of navigating complexity[00:15] Moving from "How" to "Why" Questions* "How" questions can be paralyzing in early stages of business development* Start with "Why couldn't...?" or "What if...?" questions instead* Jeffrey's driving question: "Why couldn't people experience more wonder in the boardroom, bedroom, and schools?"* The importance of scaling big dreams into feasible starting points[00:25] The Accomplished Professional Syndrome* When experts pivot to new fields, they face profound vulnerability* The challenge of going from knowing everything to being a beginner again* Using curiosity to navigate the transition: "What skills are you excited to learn?"* Fertilizing confusion through "bewilderment" rather than pathologizing uncertainty[00:35] Discovering Your Young Genius* Your genius is unique character energy you were born with but forgot* Exercise: Recall when you felt most alive and free as a child* Carolina's example: Playing with dolls, singing in English without knowing the language* Three qualities to activate daily: curiosity, joy, and fun[00:45] Business as Personal Evolution* "Who am I going to become by virtue of paying steady attention to these particular endeavors?"* Your business challenges are invitations to evolve* Sometimes you don't need to change your business—just your relationship with it* The importance of not going it alone and finding allies on the journeyKey Quotes"We are born in wonder, which means we're also born in not knowing.""It's one thing to fall in love with an idea. It's another thing to stand in love with an idea you're devoted to.""Why do some people flourish amidst complexity and challenge and change, and some of them flounder?""Your business is evolving or you've outgrown your business model... You've outgrown this business psychologically, emotionally, spiritually.""Not right now doesn't mean not ever."Resources Mentioned* Tracking Wonder book - First chapter available free here* Wonder at Work Assessment - Quick ways to experiment based on your results* The Shiva Sutras - Where Jeffrey discovered "vishmayo" (joy-filled amazement)* Young Genius exercises - Practices for remembering and activating your core qualitiesWhere to Find Jeffrey* Substack: The Wonder Hub* Website: trackingwonder.comThank YouDeep gratitude to Jeffrey for sharing his wisdom about navigating complexity through wonder. His reminder that uncertainty is "par for the course when you're living life and doing work at a sacred level" offers permission for all of us building businesses aligned with our deepest truth.P.S.Try Jeffrey's Young Genius exercise: Tomorrow morning, take 5 minutes to remember yourself at your most alive and free as a child. Write down three qualities you notice. Then ask: How can I bring 20% more of these qualities into my work today?What's NextOur Sacred Business Stories archive contains dozens more conversations with entrepreneurs who've transformed their relationship with uncertainty into fuel for growth. Each story offers unique insights for your own journey of building business as a sacred act.Thank you Josh Woll, Kwandi McVey | Accepted™ Coach, and many others for tuning into into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Jeffrey Davis and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke!P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Go DeeperCarolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

From Panic Attacks to 168K Followers: Jo Hutton's Journey to Yoga for Tired PeopleJo Hutton built a thriving in-person yoga studio for 10 years. Then the pandemic hit, and everything changed. After experiencing panic attacks while teaching, she discovered something profound: sometimes our breakdowns become our breakthroughs.In this powerful conversation, Jo shares how burning out from traditional yoga led her to create "Yoga for Tired People" - a revolutionary approach that brings yoga off the mat and into everyday life through 5-10 minute practices. What started as her personal healing journey transformed into a movement that attracted 168,000 Instagram followers in just one year.Jo's story reveals a truth we see repeatedly in Sacred Business: when we address our inner patterns and build aligned outer systems, we create offerings that deeply resonate with others facing similar challenges. Her journey from fear of online visibility to becoming a magnetic presence on social media shows us what's possible when we honor both our limitations and our calling.Show Notes[00:02:00] - From University to Yoga Studio Owner* Started yoga in university and went "all in" immediately* Lucky to start young with low overhead and fearlessness* Built a successful in-person studio in Newcastle for 10 years* Had zero interest in internet business before the pandemic[00:03:38] - The Burnout That Changed Everything* Post-pandemic exhaustion led to panic attacks while teaching* Couldn't imagine life without yoga - "it was my community, everything"* Completely stopped physical practice to heal* Returned to yoga sutras and off-the-mat practices[00:05:00] - Birth of Yoga for Tired People* Started with 5-10 minute practices woven through the day* Discovered this approach transformed her relationship with yoga* Realized everyone was burned out from hustle culture* Created practices for people who need rest but struggle with "commodified rest"[00:07:00] - Reverse Engineering Instagram Success* Decided to give Instagram one year of focused effort* Grew to 168,000 followers despite being "a normal person in Newcastle"* People resonated with authentic, non-performative approach* "Thank god there's someone not telling us to get up at 5am"[00:14:00] - Working with Fear in Business* "I'm frightened all the time" - fear never goes away* The pain of not doing something eventually exceeds the pain of doing it* First teaching experience: got physically sick from fear* Business milestones are "rites of passage" not reasons to quit[00:22:00] - Building Authentic Online Community* Choose where your community lives (Instagram vs Substack)* Set boundaries: doesn't reply to Instagram comments to preserve energy* "You get to play platforms however you want"* Different platforms = different prizes[00:25:00] - The Business Model Reality Check* Could spend 9 hours daily on Instagram and make nothing* Chose Substack for "honest, clean exchange" vs selling attention* Think about monetization from the start* Begin with the end in mindKey Quotes"At some point, the pain of not doing the thing gets worse than the pain of doing the thing." - Jo Hutton"You don't stop being frightened. You just know that the fear is okay... it's often when you're butting against your comfort zone." - Jo Hutton"I feel like when you do yoga in smaller amounts more often, it feels closer to the surface... your life is yoga rather than you have yoga and then your life." - Jo Hutton"Things that were awful at the time, when I look back on them I'm like oh that happens three times a week now and I don't even care." - Jo Hutton"You get to choose where your community is. My community exists on Substack." - Jo HuttonResources Mentioned* Yoga for Tired People on Substack - Jo's main platform and community* Free complete beginner's yoga course (no mat needed)* Weekly short yoga sessions every Monday (first of month free)* Instagram: @johuttonyoga (172k+ followers)Where to Find JoJo has declared Substack as her community home! Find her at Yoga for Tired People on Substack where she offers:* Free beginner's yoga course* Weekly yoga sessions (Mondays)* Active community discussions* Regular "yapping" about life and yogaAs Jo says: "If yoga is your thing, or if you just like hearing someone yap, you can subscribe."Ready to Transform Your Business Patterns?Jo's journey shows us how our greatest challenges often become our most powerful offerings. If you're feeling called to transform your own business struggles into sustainable success, we'd love to support you.The Sacred Growth Club helps entrepreneurs like Jo identify the inner patterns affecting their business and build aligned outer systems for sustainable growth. Just like Jo transformed her relationship with yoga, we help you transform your relationship with business itself.Learn more about Sacred Growth Club →Thank YouDeep gratitude to our Sacred Business Stories community for showing up live and engaging with these powerful conversations. Your presence makes this space truly special.P.S.If you found value in Jo's story, please share this recap with someone who might be struggling with their own version of "tired" - whether that's business burnout, creative exhaustion, or the pressure to constantly hustle. Sometimes the medicine we need is permission to do less, more intentionally.What's NextJoin us next week for another Sacred Business Story where we explore how entrepreneurs are building businesses that honor both their spiritual values and material success.Can't wait? Browse our previous interviews in the Sacred Business Stories archive →Thank you Kristoffer 'KC' Carter, Janet Ridsdale, Rebecca Weston, Philip Hofmacher and many others for tuning into into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Jo Hutton and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke!P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Today's Sacred Business Stories conversation with Charlie Gilkey revealed a powerful truth: sometimes the most meaningful businesses aren't planned—they emerge organically when we stop arguing with the opportunities life presents.Charlie, founder of Productive Flourishing and author of multiple books including "Start Finishing" and "Team Habits," shared his unexpected journey from Army logistics officer and philosophy graduate student to becoming one of the most thoughtful voices in productivity and leadership. His story illuminates how sacred business often begins not with a grand plan, but with a willingness to say yes to what others see in us before we see it ourselves.Show Notes[00:04:28] - The Accidental Beginning* How Charlie "fell ass backwards" into business while serving in the Army and pursuing his PhD in philosophy* The paradox of managing complex military operations while struggling with a 5,000-word essay* Why he started blogging in 2007 when it was still "something you didn't want to tell your friends about"* The gap he discovered between granular productivity advice and aspirational personal development[00:11:12] - When Others See What You Can't* Why Charlie initially resisted when people approached him for business help* The power of not arguing with people who recognize your value* How limited self-perception can block opportunities for growth* The importance of separating your identity from the labels you carry[00:16:25] - Focus on Verbs, Not Nouns* Why getting stuck on titles and labels prevents action* "Your cage, your key" - how we create our own limitations* The freedom that comes from doing the work without needing the perfect identity* How to play with possibilities rather than fight predetermined categories[00:19:43] - Building Your Bridge Before Jumping* Charlie's practical approach to transitioning from military/academia to entrepreneurship* Why building while still employed creates better outcomes than desperate leaps* The danger of making your business solve all your needs at once* How to reduce pressure on early-stage ventures by maintaining other income sources[00:26:09] - The Sacred Nature of Neutral Work* The revolutionary concept that not all work needs to be "joy work" or "dread work"* How creative spiritual people create unnecessary suffering by avoiding neutral tasks* The wisdom of "fetch water, chop wood" - how enlightenment changes your approach, not your tasks* Why accepting neutral work creates more energy for meaningful projects[00:42:07] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Charlie's current fears around pivoting his brand from productivity to leadership* How he "de-stakes" commitments to reduce pressure and create space for experimentation* The weight of time displacement and choosing projects carefully at 45* Why you should only pursue projects because "you can't not do them"Key Quotes"Don't argue with people about a more limited view of yourself when they see a more expansive view of yourself." - Charlie Gilkey"Your cage, your key. You're the one that created that label and that context, that constraint, and put yourself in there." - Charlie Gilkey"Don't write a book because you want to write a book. Write a book because you can't not write a book, because it will bug you and haunt you if you don't." - Charlie GilkeyResources Mentioned* Productive Flourishing (Charlie's main platform)* "Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done"* "Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results"* Getting Things Done by David Allen* The Bhagavad Gita ("fetch water, chop wood" wisdom)Where to Find Charlie* Primary: ProductiveFlourishing.com (hosted on Substack)* LinkedIn: Charlie GilkeyThe Sacred Business ConnectionCharlie's story perfectly illustrates a core principle we teach at Sacred Business Flow: the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it isn't a strategy problem—it's a pattern problem.His journey shows how business evolution often happens through organic recognition rather than forced planning. When we stop fighting the opportunities that present themselves and start saying yes to what others see in us, we create space for our sacred work to emerge naturally.The concept of "neutral work" that Charlie shared connects directly to our understanding that everything is connected. When we approach necessary tasks with presence rather than resistance, we free up energy for our most meaningful contributions. This isn't about settling for work that drains us—it's about recognizing that even in our most aligned businesses, some tasks simply need to be completed without creating elaborate stories about them.What resonated most with you from Charlie's story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Andrew Horn on making authenticity an act of service and Anand Rao about finding freedom through starting small.P.S. Charlie's insight about only pursuing projects "because you can't not do them" reminds us why we created Sacred Business Flow. Sometimes the most important work chooses us, and our job is simply to stop arguing with it and start building the bridge between where we are and where we're called to go.🔄 Share this post if you've ever found yourself arguing with an opportunity that was trying to find you.📧 New here? This is Sacred Business Stories, where we explore what it really takes to build a business aligned with your deepest truth. Subscribe to join our community of entrepreneurs who understand that everything is connected.What's Next: Join us for our next Sacred Business Stories conversation, where we'll continue exploring the intersection of spiritual growth and practical business building. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Suzy Ashworth on Living Your TruthThis week on Sacred Business Stories, we had the privilege of speaking with Suzy Ashworth, a remarkable entrepreneur who embodies what it means to build a business aligned with your deepest truth.Suzy’s journey from high school dropout to bestselling author and success coach generating over £6 million in revenue since 2020 is inspiring, but what truly resonates is her unwavering commitment to authenticity. Her story isn't about overnight success—it's about making consistent choices to honor her unique path, even when those choices were unconventional or uncomfortable. As a single mother of three who teaches others to build heart-aligned businesses, Suzy offers powerful insights on embracing your differences as strengths.Show Notes[00:04:00] - Motherhood as a Catalyst for Change* Suzy’s transformation began when she got pregnant with her first child 14 years ago* She realized if she wanted to tell her son he could do anything, she needed to live that truth* This awareness led her to leave her advertising job at The Guardian newspaper* She retrained as a hypnotherapist and psychotherapist after her second child was born[00:05:42] - Finding Strength in Being Different* Entered the birth industry, which was surprisingly controversial and competitive* Created the world's first video-based hypnobirthing program* Being different in a "crunchy" industry became her greatest asset* Discovered she loved business and marketing more than the birth industry itself[00:08:00] - Embracing Your Unique Greatness* One of the pillars of her "Infinite Receiving" philosophy is knowing your unique greatness* Your uniqueness is your superpower in business—like a thumbprint no one else has* Success comes from taking proven pathways but superimposing yourself onto them* Being willing to evolve while staying true to your ever-changing authentic self[00:10:46] - Dealing with Judgment and Fear* Her biggest vulnerability is fear of being judged as a mother due to her unconventional choices* Reconnects with essence/God/universe when fear arises* Recognizes fear of rejection is based on the illusion that we're separate* Reframes challenges as learning opportunities for growth[00:14:14] - The Reality of Motherhood and Entrepreneurship* Honest about the challenges of raising teenagers while building a business* Children don't always appreciate your choices until they're much older* Being a parent forces you to practice what you preach about trust and letting go* Acknowledges the struggle between wanting to control and trusting the process[00:20:39] - On Not Postponing Your Dreams* "Tomorrow is never going to come" - Suzy lost her mother at 19 and a close friend recently* Believes her children chose her to learn specific lessons through her example* Views living her purpose as fulfilling her end of the soul contract with her children* Encourages women not to wait until their children are grown to pursue their calling[00:26:58] - The Power of Taking the Next Step* Used maternity leave to retrain professionally (while acknowledging this isn't for everyone)* Never tried to plan 5-10 years ahead, just focused on the immediate next step* Finished top of her class, which dramatically boosted her confidence* Believes people get stuck when they try to anticipate too far ahead[00:32:00] - Expanding Your Vision Through Community* Credits environments like retreats and masterminds for stretching her vision* Made the decision to become a 7-figure entrepreneur after a literal cliff jump* Looked for similarities between herself and successful entrepreneurs instead of differences* Has only gone without a coach for six months of her entire career[00:37:32] - The Truth About Transformative Moments* Was "absolutely petrified" when jumping off the cliff but did it anyway* Had to trick her subconscious mind to get herself to the edge* Most people don't take action because they fear failure on a deep, existential level* The key shift is making these big decisions "no big deal" - you'll be okay either wayKey Quotes"If I wanted to be able to say to him, you can do anything that you want to do in this world, I needed to be living that. Because I intuitively knew that kids do what they see rather than what you say." - Suzy Ashworth"In business, it is your ability to take often proven pathways, but then superimpose yourself onto that pathway. That's the thing that enables you to stand out, be heard, and for people to have something to latch onto." - Suzy Ashworth"I am so acutely aware that tomorrow is not guaranteed. And so many people move through their lives thinking that they're going to get tomorrow. It sounds like a cliche, but cliches are around because they are true." - Suzy Ashworth"In order for me to fulfill my end of the bargain, I have to live my life. If I don't live my life, I'm stopping them from learning the lessons." - Suzy Ashworth"For every single one of us, 99% of the time, the reason that we're not doing it is because we are afraid that we are going to fail. And in that failure, it's going to affect our mortality in some way." - Suzy AshworthResources Mentioned* Infinite Receiving (Suzy’s bestselling book)* Hypnobirthing bookWhere to Find Suzy* Instagram: @Suzy_Ashworth* Website: suzyashworth.com* Upcoming masterclass: suzyashworth.com/unlocksixfiguresReady to Build Your Own Sacred Business?If Suzys story resonated with you, I invite you to join our Sacred Business Network. This is a community of heart-centered entrepreneurs committed to building businesses that honor their deepest truths while creating meaningful impact and income.Thank you for being part of our Sacred Business Stories community. Your presence here matters.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Cindy Childress about turning rejection into a book empire and Jo Hutton on building a following while healing from panic attacks.What's NextIf you found value in this conversation, please consider sharing it with a friend who might benefit from hearing Suzy’s story. Together, we can inspire more people to build businesses that honor their unique gifts. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In yesterday's episode of Sacred Business Stories, we had the privilege of speaking with Rebecca Weston, a Camino de Santiago expert who has completed an astonishing 12 pilgrimages over the past 12 years. What began as a personal adventure in 2012 has evolved into a profound calling to help others experience this life-changing journey.Rebecca's story reminds us that our deepest passions often become our most meaningful work when we follow the signs life presents us. With each Camino experience uniquely transformative yet built on the same foundation, Rebecca's journey offers powerful lessons about connection, authenticity, and embracing the unknown – principles that apply to both sacred pilgrimages and sacred business.Show Notes[00:00:00] - Introduction to the Camino de Santiago* Rebecca explains that the Camino is a network of historic pilgrimage trails across Europe leading to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain* These routes have existed for over 1,200 years, originally with religious roots* People walk for various durations: some for a week, others for five weeks, some even from their doorsteps in distant countries[00:04:50] - Rebecca's Personal Journey with the Camino* First heard about the Camino 25 years ago through Shirley MacLaine's book* Completed her first Camino in 2012 during a self-imposed sabbatical* Within days of her first experience, knew she wanted to return* Found community in Asheville, NC with others who had walked the Camino[00:09:50] - The Transformative Power of the Camino Experience* Meeting people from all walks of life and countries you might never encounter otherwise* The moving community of people on the same path with the same goal creates a unique environment* Locals along the route offering extraordinary help and kindness to pilgrims* Many walkers describe it as a model for how the world could function[00:13:40] - Returning to Normal Life After the Camino* The challenge of integrating the Camino experience back into daily life* The importance of processing the journey afterward through community and writing* Rebecca's advice: do tourist activities before the Camino, not after* How the experience continues to impact your perspective long after returning home[00:16:20] - Most Surprising Elements of the Camino Experience* The variety of people and their generosity was unexpected* The deep connections formed with people from different countries and backgrounds* Experiencing humanity at its best - people helping one another despite differences* How the Camino strips away societal divisions and reveals our common humanity[00:20:30] - From Personal Journey to Business Evolution* Rebecca's transition to guiding others began with helping a 70-year-old friend* Desire to pay forward the help she received before her first Camino* Recognized the need to show people there are many ways to do the Camino* Focused on making the experience accessible to those who believed they couldn't do it[00:27:00] - Facing Fear and Resistance in Business* The importance of showing up consistently (posting weekly on Substack)* Accepting that things will go wrong and learning to embrace uncertainty* Teaching clients that the Camino requires flexibility and openness* Using her own experiences to help others prepare for the unexpected[00:41:40] - Lessons on Authentic Connection from the Camino* Being authentic to who you are while remaining open to unexpected connections* Finding common ground with people you might initially think you have nothing in common with* The power of being fully present in interactions with others* How the Camino naturally creates opportunities for meaningful human connectionKey Quotes from Rebecca"If the world could function like the Camino functions, it would be an incredible place to live. And I still believe the world is an incredible place to live if we look for it and recognize how amazing it is. But on the Camino, it is just right there. It's real. It's physical." - Rebecca Weston"A lot of people come on the Camino for some reason, whether it's something bigger like they just retired, they just graduated, they just lost a partner, they want a change in their life but aren't sure what." - Rebecca Weston"Just showing up consistently over and over and over... just by committing to that, so much has opened up for me." - Rebecca Weston"Things are going to go wrong. Not something terrible necessarily, but we can't control this experience completely. And so it's something now that I tell my clients and I teach in my classes, like you can do all the prep you want. But life throws things at you and you have to be able to kind of roll with that." - Rebecca Weston"I feel like there's almost nothing more important we could be doing at this particular time in history... In this time where the media and just like this kind of disconnect we feel and the identities that are imposed upon us in so many different ways, it is extremely powerful when you can come together with people of all these differences and you're kind of united by this common bond or cause or shared intentions." - Rebecca WestonResources Mentioned* Shirley MacLaine's book about her Camino experience (early 2000s)* The American movie "The Way" with Martin Sheen* The Camino Calls - Rebecca's weekly Substack newsletter* thecaminocalls.com - Rebecca's websiteEmbrace Your Own Sacred JourneyThis conversation reminds us that our most meaningful work often emerges naturally when we follow what lights us up. Rebecca didn't set out to build a business around the Camino – she simply followed her passion, served others, and allowed the path to unfold before her.Whether you're considering a physical pilgrimage like the Camino or creating your own sacred business, remember that the journey itself transforms us. By embracing uncertainty, remaining open to unexpected connections, and staying true to what moves you, you create space for your unique path to reveal itself.If you're feeling called to explore your own sacred business journey, join our Sacred Business Network where we support heart-centered entrepreneurs in building businesses aligned with their deepest truth. Learn more here.Thank you for being part of our community!P.S. Have you had a transformative travel experience that changed your perspective on life or business? We'd love to hear about it in the comments!If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Anand Rao on making your business a spiritual path and Derek Sivers about the lessons of impermanence.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Andrew Horn’s journey from an insecure kid in Maui to building an eight-figure tech company, only to transition into executive coaching, reveals a profound truth: our greatest failures often become our most powerful gifts. During our conversation on Sacred Business Stories, Andrew shared how mastering communication techniques wasn't enough—he had to discover that authenticity itself could be an act of service.What struck me most was Andrew's story about breaking through his lifelong patterns at the Conscious Capitalism Summit. A simple interaction with a fellow entrepreneur named Megan became a "Matrix moment" that transformed not just how he communicates, but how he shows up in the world. This wasn't about learning new techniques—it was about embodying a different way of being.Now, as someone Forbes calls "the Dale Carnegie for the digital age," Andrew helps other leaders navigate the deep work of authentic connection while building successful businesses. His insights on transforming our relationship with fear, understanding emotional patterns, and finding flow states offer a roadmap for anyone seeking to align their work with their deepest truth.Show Notes[00:03:00] - The Foundation: Why Connection Became Andrew's Obsession* Bullied in Maui, struggled with social connection* First moment of agency at 13: deciding to change by talking to girls despite fear* Mother was 13-time published author in interpersonal dynamics* Learned communication techniques but internal insecurity remained[00:05:18] - The Matrix Moment: Authenticity as Service* Attended Gestalt Awareness Practice workshop* Three pillars: authenticity, curiosity, presence* Breakthrough conversation with Megan (media entrepreneur)* Realized his anxiety came from stories, not reality[00:16:47] - The Career Pivot: From Tech CEO to Executive Coach* Built Tribute.co to eight figures* First coach Lauren Zander told him "you're a coach at heart"* Needed two years to exit with integrity* Discovered he was good at coaching from day one[00:23:28] - The Power of Autotelic Activities* Definition: activities done for their own sake* Surfing as metaphor—exercise happens, but enjoyment is the point* Flow states and peak performance* Why doing what you want leads to better outcomes[00:30:23] - Working with Fear and Upper Limits Patterns* Scarcity mindset persisting despite financial success* Upper limits work from Gay Hendricks* No enemy in the mind or emotions* Emotional inquiry and understanding positive intent[00:40:06] - Breaking Childhood Patterns* Breaking the Cycle exercise* Childhood patterns from primary caregivers* Carry Forward vs Break the Cycle lists* Understanding negative love syndromeKey Quotes"When done consciously, my authenticity could be an implicit act of service." - Andrew Horn"They all are doing what they're doing because they want to be doing it." - On what successful entrepreneurs have in common"Any emotion that is presenting itself is there fundamentally because it is trying to serve us." - Andrew Horn"There's no enemy in the mind. There's no enemy in the emotions." - Andrew Horn"Context, what it is that we're feeling and thinking about the thing, is going to be much more important for improving performance than a new skill or technique." - Andrew HornResources Mentioned* Gestalt Awareness Practice (Esalen Institute)* "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks (Upper Limits work)* "Flow" by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (Flow states research)* "The Work" by Byron Katie (Thought inquiry)* Lauren Zander (Andrew's first coach, Handel Group)* Hoffman Process (Childhood pattern work)* Diana Chapman (Three tiers of integrity)* Brian Franklin (Ecology of emotions)Where to Find Andrew* Substack: Relational Leadership* Website: itsandrewhorne.com* Retreats: Quarterly leadership retreats for men (entrepreneurs) in New York, Los Angeles, and AustinThank YouA huge thank you to Andrew for sharing his journey and wisdom with our community. And thank you to everyone who joined us live or is catching up with the recording,Please ShareIf you enjoyed this conversation, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit from hearing Andrew’s perspective on building a business that truly supports what matters most in life.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Elena Brower on authentic pricing and finding balance and Charlie Gilkey about when business finds you instead of the other way around.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Ryan Levesque went from quitting his corporate job during the 2008 financial crisis to building and selling multiple multi-million dollar businesses. But his most profound transformation came when he decided to prioritize what truly mattered - family, connection, and living in alignment with his values. Now living on a 140-acre farm where his family grows their own food, Ryan shares how he built businesses around his life (not the other way around) and why the "unscalable" might be your greatest competitive advantage.In this deeply personal conversation, Ryan reveals how he made major life pivots, developed the courage to take action despite fear, and why he believes the future belongs to entrepreneurs who focus on authentic connection over automation. If you've ever felt trapped by conventional business wisdom or wondered how to build a business that truly serves your vision of a well-lived life, this episode offers both practical wisdom and inspiring perspective.Show Notes[00:00:52] - The Unexpected Connection* Phil reveals how Ryan's Ask Method became the foundation for his patient acquisition system* This system eventually spawned an entire business serving other practice owners* Ryan shares how finding solutions to your own problems can become opportunities to serve others[00:06:52] - Ryan's Entrepreneurial Journey* Left his financial firm job during the 2008 crisis with nothing but a suitcase* Built his first business teaching people how to make Scrabble tile jewelry* Expanded into multiple markets including Orchid Care and Memory Improvement* Developed the Ask Method, a methodology for understanding market segments* Helped companies achieve nine-figure exits using his methods* Sold his own software company, Bucket.io, in 2024[00:14:02] - Overcoming Fear and Taking Action* Ryan explains why people hesitate to give up "good" to go after "great"* Shares his "ramen noodle and bologna sandwich" season of life* Reveals his neuroscience-based approach to overcoming fear* Advocates breaking big goals into impossibly small steps[00:22:27] - The $500 Growth Strategy* How Ryan grew his business from zero to $25,000/month in 18 months* The power of asking "How can I grow my income by $500 more?" each month* Why small, manageable goals lead to exponential results[00:25:56] - The Farm Life Transition* Ryan's realization that he was burning out in his business* Taking time off to work on a Vermont farm and discovering a new calling* Selling his house in 14 days with no plan except a vision* Building a sustainable farm life from scratch with no prior experience[00:30:47] - Living with Purpose and Courage* Ryan's perspective on raising children and making the most of limited time* His life mantra: "Be curious, ask questions, seek truth"* The importance of deep conviction loosely held* Defining courage as taking action despite fear[00:38:13] - The Return to Real Connection* Ryan's realization that he hated his business and the "photocopy" voice it had created* His decision to personally write all communications that bear his name* The Digital Contrarian newsletter and focusing on "unscalable" authentic connection* Why the best things in life don't scale[00:46:12] - Creating a Business Around Life's Non-Negotiables* Setting clear boundaries like no meetings before noon or on Fridays* Making family dinner and children's events absolute priorities* Understanding that every business has an optimum size* Building a business that supports what's meaningful rather than the reverseKey Quotes"I believe there's no better bet than betting on yourself. There's no better investment that you can make than investing in yourself." - Ryan Levesque"What is one step I can take toward that vision I've set for myself that is so small, it's literally impossible for me to fail?" - Ryan Levesque"Courage is not about not being afraid. There are a lot of things that I'm afraid of. But what I've learned is that courage is what's required to take action in spite of that fear." - Ryan Levesque"I believe the best things in life don't scale. And oftentimes when I'm asked, how do you make the time to write something every single week yourself? Well, I take great solace in that because I know that's not something that my competition is willing to do." - Ryan Levesque"As entrepreneurs, we have the opportunity to build businesses that support what's most meaningful to us. And it should not be the other way around." - Ryan LevesqueResources Mentioned* The Digital Contrarian - Ryan's weekly newsletter on Substack* Ask. Book - Ryan's methodology for market research and segmentation* ScoreApp - The assessment software company that acquired Ryan's company BucketThank YouA huge thank you to Ryan for sharing his journey and wisdom with our community. And thank you to everyone who joined us live or is catching up with the recording,Please ShareIf you enjoyed this conversation, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit from hearing Ryan's perspective on building a business that truly supports what matters most in life.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Maria Gehrke on anchoring vision through art and Charlie Gilkey about building businesses that align with who you are.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this illuminating conversation with Elena Brower, we dive into what it truly means to build a business that aligns with your deepest truth. Elena - a mother, mentor, poet, artist, bestselling author, and dedicated volunteer - shares her journey of creating multiple streams of work that all reflect her authentic self without forcing anything that doesn't feel natural.Elena's path wasn't planned but unfolded organically from opening a yoga studio in 2002 to becoming a wellness advocate for doTERRA, developing courses, writing books, and eventually creating space for extensive volunteer work. What stands out is how she's woven these diverse elements into a cohesive whole that supports both her financial needs and her desire to give back.Perhaps most powerful is Elena's refreshing perspective on charging what you're worth and releasing the shame around selling products and services that bring genuine benefit to others. She challenges us to consider that earning well allows us to give generously—whether through volunteer work, supporting causes, or making our offerings accessible to those who truly need them.Show Notes[00:00:24] Beginning the Sacred Business Conversation* Carolina introduces Sacred Business Stories as a space for honest conversations about building businesses aligned with one's deepest truth* Elena is introduced as someone who embodies her teachings—there's no separation between her work and who she is* Phil shares Elena's background as a mother, mentor, poet, artist, volunteer, bestselling author, and host of the Practice You podcast[00:03:58] Elena's Business Evolution: Following the Path That Unfolded* Started with a yoga studio in 2002 that remained open for 12 years* Midway through that period, began working with doTERRA essential oils after using them for a decade* The essential oils business grew significantly, providing financial freedom to pursue writing, traveling, painting, and volunteer work* Nothing was planned—each opportunity emerged naturally and created space for the next phase* Her various business ventures support one another in an organic ecosystem[00:10:42] Balancing Multiple Passions and Creating Structure* Elena acknowledges that different people thrive in different ways—some need singular focus while others (like her) enjoy variety* Uses a color-coded calendar system to ensure balance between different types of activities* Blue events mean appearing on camera, pink events are self-care like workouts* Ensures each day has a balanced mix of activities to maintain energy and wellbeing* Emphasizes the importance of true rest—not just entertainment, but silence and stillness[00:15:20] The Power of Simple Embodiment Practices* Carolina shares how Elena's Practice You card deck influenced her to drop into her body rather than just feed her mind with more information* Elena created the deck for herself when she needed simple, non-yoga embodiment practices* Demonstrates how powerful minimal, accessible practices can be[00:18:49] Embracing Your Worth and Overcoming Shame Around Selling* Elena shares how she had to overcome the shame around selling as a yoga teacher* Reframes selling products and services: "To sell a product that you actually use, from which you derive benefit, is not something to be ashamed about"* Challenges listeners to question why we shouldn't earn money that enables us to give back through volunteering, supporting causes, and creating more impact* Advises "forgive and delete" when encountering judgment from others about charging for your services[00:24:46] Raising the Bar in the Yoga Industry* Calls for yoga teachers to charge what they're worth after thousands of hours and dollars invested in training* Suggests creative solutions like group sessions to make offerings both sustainable and accessible* Emphasizes viewing money as energy rather than an evil force, especially when earned doing what you love and are trained for[00:32:42] Creating Accessibility While Honoring Your Worth* Uses Substack as a way to make her writing accessible to more people* Offers free mentorship to those who can't afford her services* Gives away substantial content through her website and free webinars* Consciously balances premium offerings with free resources* Emphasizes that charging appropriately for some services enables her to give freely in other areas[00:39:35] Elena's Current Work and How to Connect* Shares that her website and Substack are the best ways to explore her offerings* Offers to gift Substack paid subscriptions to anyone who can't afford them* Explains how paid subscriptions support various causes including incarcerated women, grieving children, and Women for Women International* Discusses her upcoming book "Hold Nothing" featuring autobiographical essays and watercolor artKey Quotes"Nothing should be forced. You know, even I have a pretty robust affiliate business as well. And it's just me sharing what I use already. It's not complicated." - Elena Brower"To sell a product that you actually use, from which you derive benefit, is not something to be ashamed about. Why should I not earn money enough so that I can go out and volunteer?" - Elena Brower"We shame people for doing great work. We shame people for shining. We shame people for earning enough to support their lives and then to also give. Why is that shameful?" - Elena Brower"You'll start to see that actually the pockets of silence are where your best ideas and creativity come from. And you start to realize, oh, if I don't prioritize those, I have nothing to give." - Elena Brower"Whatever works for you is going to magnetize the people whom you're meant to be serving. That's what it is. It's not that any one person is so magnetic." - Elena BrowerResources Mentioned* Practice You card deck and journal* doTERRA essential oils* "Hold Nothing" - Elena's upcoming book (November release)* GLOW - yoga platform where Elena teaches* Alberto Villoldo - Elena's collaborator on a Yoga Sutra course* Women for Women International* Free Food Kitchen (South Africa)* Girls on Fire leadersWhere to Find Elena* Website: elenabrower.com* Substack: Elena Brower * Instagram: @elenabrower* Practice You podcast* Pre-order her upcoming book "Hold Nothing" through Penguin Random HouseIf Elena's approach to Sacred Business resonates with you, consider how you might release shame around charging for your services and create a model that allows you to both sustain yourself and give generously. Explore her Substack for weekly wisdom or visit her website for resources on cultivating personal practices that ground your work.And Elena made a very generous offer during our time together: if financial constraints are holding you back from accessing Elena's paid content, reach out directly through Substack, as she offers free subscriptions to those who need them. This beautifully demonstrates her philosophy that business can be both sustainable and accessible when approached with intention.A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us live for this conversation and to our growing community of sacred business builders. These honest exchanges remind us that we can create sustainable businesses that honor our values while making a meaningful impactReady to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkIf you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Andrew Horn on making authenticity an act of service and Jay Fiset on building sacred business from personal crisis.Thank you Kristoffer 'KC' Carter, Miranda Ruth Gill, Filip Sardi 🌊, and many others for tuning into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Elena Brower and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke! P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt Sacred Business Stories interview, we sat down with Sue Reid , a certified confidence and self-belief coach who found her calling at age 60 after retiring from a 42-year career in banking. Sue's story is a powerful testament to how past trauma can become your greatest gift to others when transformed through inner work and self-discovery.Sue shares her journey from being a shy girl who survived three toxic relationships—including being stabbed at age 17—to building her confidence and eventually creating a business helping others do the same. What makes her story particularly inspiring is how she embraced an entirely new path after retirement instead of following the traditional script, developing multiple certifications and evolving naturally into her role as a coach and writer.Show Notes[00:00:02] - Finding Purpose After Retirement* Sue retired from banking in 2019 after a 42-year career* Rather than simply retiring, she wanted to use her experience to help others* She began training in NLP and hypnotherapy to help people with confidence issues* What started as a "hobby" naturally evolved into a business, particularly after joining Substack[00:03:51] - Early Influences and Childhood Dreams* Sue wanted to become a doctor but was told by parents and teachers she "wasn't clever enough"* This fed into a lifelong feeling of "not being good enough"* Following her father's suggestion, she went into banking instead* The pattern of outside influence and self-doubt shaped her early career choices[00:05:11] - Overcoming Trauma and Finding Confidence* Survived three toxic relationships, including being stabbed five times at age 17* Hit rock bottom at age 38 after her third relationship ended* Started journaling and reading self-help books to rebuild her confidence* Found that her job in banking was where she felt most confident, showing her potential[00:16:47] - Discovering a Common Thread: Proving Self-Worth* A coaching supervisor once asked: "Why are you still trying to prove yourself to your father after all these years?"* Realized she'd spent her life trying to prove she was "good enough"* This pattern both motivated her success and created resistance* Her mantra "everything will be OK" helps her move through self-doubt[00:20:53] - The Mind-Body Connection in Confidence Building* Sue emphasizes the importance of body language in displaying confidence* Your subconscious believes everything you tell it and looks for proof* Positive mantras like "everything is working out for me" create shifts in perception* Repetition eventually transforms external mantras into your inner voice[00:29:18] - Building Authentic Online Connections* Be yourself rather than trying to imitate successful people* Engage consistently and genuinely with others' content* Leave thoughtful comments that add value, not just "great post!"* Use live video formats to create deeper connections with your audience[00:33:31] - Future Plans: Creating Impact Through Courses* Developing a "Confident Communication" course for professional women* Focus on helping women speak up in male-dominated environments* Includes body language techniques to project confidence* Planning a June launch with early-bird discounts and bonusesKey Quotes"I think I actually believe everybody is confident. It's the self-confidence and the self-belief, self-love that you lack and self-esteem." - Sue Reid"I built up my confidence from hitting rock bottom. And I love people. I really love meeting people and helping people. So how can I put those two together?" - Sue Reid"Everything is always working out for me. And everything was just falling apart. And I'm like, everything is... repeating that over and over and over. And I would go for walks just thinking about that. There was no other thought." - Sue Reid"The older I become more I become more healthier more abundant and more spiritual... the older I get like kind of going to the opposite direction that society in a way teach us." - Carolina WilkeResources Mentioned* Book: "Building Confidence, How to Thrive as a Shy Person" by Sue Reid (available on Amazon)* Jay Shetty School (life coaching certification)* NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and Hypnotherapy* Journaling as a confidence-building practice* Mantras and affirmations for mindset shiftsWhere to Find Sue* Substack: Sue Reid's Substack* Coming Soon: "Confident Communication" course for professional women (launching June 2025)Join Our Sacred Business CommunityIf Sue's story resonated with you, we invite you to join the Sacred Business Network - a community of heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that everything is connected. Share your gifts, challenges, and victories in a supportive environment designed to help you build a business that aligns with your deepest truth.Our weekly Substack Lives feature inspiring stories like Sue's that demonstrate how your life experiences can transform into meaningful work that serves others. Whether you're just starting your business journey or looking to evolve your existing business into something more aligned, you'll find guidance and community here.Thank you for joining us for this powerful conversation. Who would you like to hear from next on Sacred Business Stories?With appreciation, Phil & CarolinaIf you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Matt Sprang about rising from $800K in debt and Jo Hutton on transforming panic attacks into purpose.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this illuminating conversation, Kyle Shepard shares his journey as a military audiologist who has transformed personal challenges into a pathway of service through stress management and resilience training. With remarkable candor, Kyle reveals how a painful pregnancy loss nearly ended his marriage but ultimately strengthened it, teaching him powerful lessons about intentional communication and emotional regulation that now form the foundation of his work with others.Through practical wisdom, Kyle explains how understanding our stress responses can transform how we show up in business and life. His approach to "intentional stress"—deliberately exposing ourselves to manageable challenges to build resilience—offers a refreshing framework for personal growth. Kyle's insights on transitioning from emotional to rational states and finding alignment between our values and actions provide valuable tools for entrepreneurs seeking to navigate uncertainty while staying connected to their deeper purpose.Show Notes:[00:00] - Kyle's Professional Journey* Background as a military audiologist* Evolution into resilience training and stress management* Current research role focused on human performance[00:15] - Personal Transformation* Experience of pregnancy loss in Guam* Near-separation from his wife and rebuilding their relationship* How becoming a father changed his approach to life[00:30] - The Convergence of Passions* Brazilian jiu-jitsu and fitness coaching* Military resilience instruction* Writing on Substack about stress management[00:42] - Sacred Business Philosophy* Finding convergence between different life domains* The difference between job, profession, and calling* Bringing intention to any role regardless of title[00:55] - Understanding Stress Response* The 90-second physiological stress response* Differentiating between emotions and rational thought* Practical tools for managing stress in the moment[01:05] - Intentional Stress Training* Progressive overload concept applied to personal growth* Specific adaptations to imposed demands (SAID principle)* Building resilience through manageable challenges[01:15] - Breathing Techniques* Focus on exhale for calming the nervous system* Using breath as an anchor during stressful situations* Creating space between stimulus and response[01:25] - Balancing Action and Non-Action* When to act versus when to accept* Making rational rather than emotional decisions* Finding harmony between different approachesKey Quotes:"Courage is not the absence of fear. It's the understanding of the fear response and acting anyway, because you know it's important, aligns with whatever it is that you're trying to accomplish." - Kyle Shepard"There's no physiologic difference between anxiety and excitement. It's just how do we label it. So distress and eustress. Same exact physiology. It's just a different perspective, a different mindset." - Kyle Shepard"We have two controllables: the interpretation of our thoughts... and the subsequent action, whether that's internal intention or of course my words, my behaviors, my actions." - Kyle Shepard"The days feel like years and the years fly by." - Kyle Shepard (on parenthood)Resources Mentioned:* SAID Principle (Specific Adaptations to Imposed Demands)* Progressive Overload concept from exercise physiology* The 90-Second Rule (Dr. Jill Bolt Taylor)* Concept of Intentional Stress* Energy-Free Stress Management StrategiesWhere to Find Kyle:Substack: * Daily reflective quotes and questions* Articles on stress management and resilience* Intentional stress challenges and workout plansIf Kyle's approach to stress management and intentional growth resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Kyle shared, finding alignment between your values and actions while developing practical tools for navigating challenges can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkThank you Tom Jaleski, Rebecca Weston, Maria Gehrke, Natalia, Amisha, and many others for tuning into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Kyle Shepard and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jeffrey Davis on finding your way through uncertainty and Sue Reid about building confidence through challenge.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this inspiring conversation, watercolor artist Maria Gehrke shares her journey of integration—bringing together her analytical corporate background with her creative artistic expression to create a unique offering called the "Embodied Vision Portal." With remarkable vulnerability, she reveals how she combines mindfulness practices with live art creation to help people and organizations anchor their visions in tangible form. Maria's approach to balancing structure with creative flow offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to bring their unique gifts forward while honoring their full selves.Maria illuminates how trusting the creative process—including embracing the "ugly phase" that's inevitable in both art and business—has transformed her relationship with fear and resistance. Her thoughtful reflections on art as energy work and the importance of creating sacred spaces provide a fresh perspective on how visual expression can serve as a powerful tool for transformation, both personally and collectively.Show Notes:[00:00] - Maria's Business Journey* Background integrating analytical and creative sides* Transition from corporate work to artistic expression* Development of the watercolor art practice[05:30] - The Artistic Medium & Process* Why watercolor became her preferred medium* The power of art's unpredictability* How art connects to her deeper purpose[10:00] - The Embodied Vision Portal* Combining mindfulness and live art creation* Helping others anchor their visions* The process of channeling collective energy into visual form[15:00] - Working with Fear and Trust* Navigating the "ugly phase" in art and business* Building trust in the creative process* Learning to work with imperfection[22:00] - Art as Energy Work* How art affects our feelings and environment* The connection between spirituality and creativity* Creating spaces that support meaningful work[31:00] - The Creative Process* How visions unfold during live art sessions* The balance between structure and flow* Moving from initial concept to finished piece[33:00] - Business Challenges and Growth* Navigating the transition from corporate work* Overcoming resistance to marketing and sales* Reconnecting with purpose to move through fear[42:00] - Creative Rituals and Practices* Protecting studio time through calendar blocking* Creating rituals that support artistic flow* Balancing structure and flexibilityKey Quotes:"Art is kind of like a feeling in form. That's why, you know, when you're sad, you listen to sad music... or uplifting music and vice versa." - Maria Gehrke"When you purchase a piece of art or when you hang a piece of art, you're not just connecting to that feeling or the image that's on there, you're connecting to the artist." - Maria Gehrke"It's important that we work with art that doesn't uplift us. Because realistically, we need to feel all the feelings, not just happy feelings." - Maria Gehrke"I want to uplift and I want to supercharge the people that want to make a difference in the world... because I feel that's something that we need right now in the world is not this dystopian fear everywhere. We need a beautiful vision that we can work towards." - Maria GehrkeResources Mentioned:* Solarpunk - An artistic movement focusing on positive environmental futures* Start With Why by Simon Sinek* Fearless Living Academy by Leo Babauta* Sacred Business Planning Challenge (available in The Sacred Growth Club)Where to Find Maria:* Substack: https://livelovemaria.substack.com/subscribe* Website: https://livelovemaria.com/If Maria's approach to bringing vision to life through art resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Maria shared, finding ways to anchor your vision and create supportive practices can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Thank you to everyone who tuned into Episode 04 of Sacred Business Stories with Maria Gehrke and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Ryan Levesque on building businesses that serve your vision and Rebecca Weston about anchoring yourself through long transformative journeys.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Sacred Business Flow is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

Finding Your Soul's Calling: Filip Sardi on Client Success and Authentic BusinessIn this candid conversation, Filip Sardi shares his journey from being a high-level launch strategist to embracing his true calling in client success. With remarkable honesty, he reveals how ignoring his soul's purpose led to serious health challenges—including a life-threatening emergency surgery that became his wake-up call. Filip’s story powerfully illustrates how following external validation rather than internal guidance can lead to burnout and disconnection, and the transformative power of finally aligning with your deepest passion despite initial resistance.Through vulnerable storytelling, Filip illuminates how focusing on what happens after the sale—taking exceptional care of existing clients rather than constantly chasing new ones—has not only created greater fulfillment but also better business outcomes. His approach to energy management, community connection, and trusting your feelings over fearful thoughts offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to build businesses that support their wellbeing while creating sustainable success.Show Notes:[00:00] - Introduction to Filip Sardi* Background as a digital marketer and launch strategist* Evolution toward client success focus* The concept of "client flow movement"[04:30] - The Journey of Disconnect* Experience with large-scale launches (up to 70,000 people)* Feeling unfulfilled despite external success* Putting his soul's mission "on a shelf" after receiving resistance[10:00] - The Health Wake-up Call* Life-threatening gallbladder surgery in 2024* Recognizing the physical consequences of not following his path* Getting a "second chance" but initially not taking it[14:00] - Finding Courage to Pivot* Working through inner resistance with "The Presence Process"* Taking the "love-led leap" toward authentic work* Setting up structures to support his new direction[21:00] - Working with Fear and Resistance* The mindset shift that helped overcome doubt* Morning and evening meditation practices* Finding your "anchor" in how your work makes you feel[27:00] - The Power of Community* How finding like-minded people creates permission* The importance of belonging and consistent connection* Sharing your gifts in safe spaces before broader audiences[34:00] - Client Success Principles* Setting clear commitment principles with clients* The importance of limiting client intake* Taking things one milestone at a time[42:00] - Future Plans* Focusing on simplicity with a single mentorship offer* Goal of 50 guest podcast appearances* Getting back on the road for travel and in-person connectionKey Quotes:"When you get the second chance, you got to use it." - Filip Sardi"The first time I started opening up because it felt like I'm in a safe space with you guys...where we get to talk about all these different dimensions and different motivations behind it, not just the ego-driven, 'I'm going to launch this huge movement and conquer the world.'" - Filip Sardi"I always cared about my clients and my clients' clients...I realized that not a lot of people are paying attention to basically what happens after clients come into their world." - Filip Sardi"Connect to the feeling...I would feel the shift coming and my inability to hold the emotion I was intending to hold, and I would obsessively repeat mantras in my head until that was stronger than the situation." - Filip Sardi"Do your work, do it well, then let go and let God." - Filip SardiResources Mentioned:* "The Presence Process" by Michael Brown* Joe Dispenza's meditations* Sacred Business Network community* Morning and evening anchoring practicesWhere to Find Filip:* Substack: clientflow.substack.com* Website: joinclientflow.com* Five-part Client Flow manifestoIf Filip’s approach to client success and authentic business alignment resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Filip shared, finding your tribe and building supportive connections can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Thank you Leslie Lynch, Yvonne Ator, Jara, Kayleigh and everyone else for tuning into this episode of Sacred Business Stories with Filip Sardi and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Charlie Gilkey on accidental entrepreneurship and Anand Rao about finding freedom through business.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt conversation, Kristoffer 'KC' Carter shares his journey of building a business that aligns with his deepest spiritual truth, highlighting how consistently surrendering to his practice and purpose has guided his path as an entrepreneur. With remarkable authenticity, he reveals how losing his corporate job while closing on his dream home created the pressure cooker of motivation that ultimately pushed him to bet on himself and his vision.Through authentic storytelling, KC illuminates how focusing on spiritual practice rather than chasing external success has paradoxically led to greater fulfillment, impact, and financial abundance. His approach to business as art, asking for help, and showing up as fully human offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to build businesses that honor their natural rhythms while creating sustainable success.Show Notes:[00:00] - Introduction to Sacred Business Stories[03:00] - KC's Business Journey* Finding purpose through yoga and spiritual practice* Following the guidance of his guru Paramahansa Yogananda* Surrendering to allow purpose to unfold naturally[08:00] - Combining Multiple Aspects of Self* Challenges of integrating different parts of identity* The power of spiritual practice for integration* Creating alignment between business and spiritual life[11:30] - The Love-Led Leap* Transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship* Job elimination while closing on dream home* Pressure cooker of motivation to bet on himself[15:45] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Identifying challenges around administration and finances* Resistance to asking for help despite coaching others to do so* Building a business as an artist while managing practical elements[25:00] - Guidance and Surrender* The science of yoga as a practical business approach* Practice as the foundation for all success* Finding faith through consistent application[31:00] - Business as Art and Connection* Viewing business creation as artistic expression* The power of authenticity in online connection* Balancing preparation with embracing messiness[36:40] - Musical Performance: "River of Light"* KC shares an original song written for his guru* Demonstration of creative flow and surrenderKey Quotes:"The more that I've surrendered into that work and just let it have its way with me, it kind of chose my new career. It built my business. It draws my clients." - KC Carter"The law of accumulation is that we are bigger than the sum total of everything we've ever lived. And when we tap into that, I've been practicing this..." - KC Carter"When I surrendered into purpose... it was that invitation to just keep surrendering more and more." - KC Carter"I think it's that invitation to just keep surrendering more and more. So yeah, it was really messy for me... but the core of what I do being me and my spiritual practice, I think is really solid." - KC Carter"Being concise and editing yourself is an act of generosity. You want to be user generous." - KC CarterGuest Bio:Kristoffer Carter (’KC’) is the author of Permission to Glow— A Spiritual Guide to Epic Leadership, which guides his team’s coaching of Fortune 500 executive leaders at Amazon, AT&T, eXp Realty, Edward Jones, Flywheel Digital, and many more.His teachings have been featured in Men’s Health, Fast Company, on Good Morning Washington, and the Good Life Project podcast.Kris sits on the Board of Directors of Yoga Alliance, and serves the global work of his guru Paramahansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi. In 2016 Kristoffer founded Epic Leadership, a training organization for conscious leadership which has created a daily meditation practice for thousands.Kris lives in Akron OH, and enjoys trash-talking while playing MarioKart with his three children.Resources Mentioned:* Book: "Permission to Glow— A Spiritual Guide to Epic Leadership" by KC Carter* Book: "Autobiography of a Yogi" by Paramahansa Yogananda* Concept: Psychosynthesis and the law of accumulation* Practice: Kriya Yoga meditationWhere to Find KC:* Substack: Permission to Chill with Kris Carter * LinkedIn: Kristoffer CarterIf KC's approach to authentic business and spiritual integration resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As KC shared, finding your own rhythm and building supportive practices can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkThank you Diane Lane, Brian Hershberger, and many others for tuning into Episode 08 of Sacred Business Stories with Kristoffer 'KC' Carter and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke .If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Andrew Horn on making authenticity real and Kyle Shepard about personal growth through intentional challenge.You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this transformative conversation, Hendrix Black (formerly known as Ry Schwartz) reveals how creating multiple professional identities has allowed him to express different aspects of his creativity without limitations. With remarkable candor, he shares how adopting pen names freed him from the weight of expectations, enabling him to write with greater authenticity and take professional risks he might have otherwise avoided. Through thoughtful exploration, Hendrix illuminates how his work in marketing, coaching, and fiction all serve the same core purpose: creating safe spaces for unsafe truths. His approach to writing fiction as a form of "coaching at scale" offers powerful insights for creators who wish to impact others while honoring their own creative impulses. For entrepreneurs struggling with visibility, his experience provides a practical roadmap for navigating fear and self-doubt while remaining true to their deeper calling. Show Notes:[00:00] - The Power of Multiple Identities* Origin story of the name "Hendrix Black"* How different names create freedom of expression* Using alternate identities to overcome fear[04:00] - Sacred Business Integration* Balancing multiple creative expressions* Finding joy in diverse business pursuits* Rejecting limiting "all-in" advice[10:00] - Fiction as Transformation* Using storytelling as shadow work* How writing reveals hidden aspects of self* Creating "coaching at scale" through stories[18:00] - Creating Safe Space for Unsafe Truths* Expanding capacity in relationships* Holding wider ranges of acceptance* Breaking free from narrow bandwidth[27:00] - Navigating Fear and Resistance* Common worries about visibility and judgment* Practical approaches for moving forward* Finding peace with audience size[36:00] - Authentic Connection Online* Building meaningful relationships vs. networking* Honoring natural disposition for depth* Creating unforced resonance with othersKey Quotes:"For me, intimacy is about creating safe space for unsafe truths." - Hendrix Black"One of the biggest pains I witness in intimate relationship is the narrow bandwidth of acceptability we grant one another." - Hendrix Black"I'd say it's closer to 80% joy and 20% [resistance] these days... but there used to be a lot of shame in [having multiple creative outlets]. These days there is a lot of joy in that." - Hendrix Black"I have no idea how long I'm going to be on this planet for. I have no idea how long my capacities for creativity are going to be alive and thriving and bursting with a desire to serve and express." - Hendrix BlackResources Mentioned:* Hendrix's literary fiction books: "The Secret Lives of the Men You Love" and "Woman Witnessed Volume One: Mother Maiden Mystic"* Non-fiction books: "The Seven Initiatory Fires of Modern Manhood," "Awakening Your Inner King," and "The Relationship Recode"Where to Find Hendrix:* Substack: https://substack.com/@hendrixblack* Amazon: Search "Hendrix Black" to find all published booksIf Hendrix's approach to authentic expression and creative freedom resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Hendrix shared, finding safe spaces to express your full truth and building meaningful connections can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkThank you Sue Reid, Esai Arasi, Landon Poburan, Sarah-Frances McCormick , and many others for tuning into for Sacred Business Stories with Hendrix Black and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Toku McCree on sacred business foundations and Elena Brower about meaningful exchange in your work.You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In Episode 06 of Sacred Business Stories, Michele Parad shares her journey from corporate marketing to becoming an intuitive guide and community builder for conscious creators. With refreshing honesty, she reveals how combining her professional marketing experience with her personal healing journey led to the creation of Multidimensional Leaders, a platform that helps thought leaders align their business models with their soul's purpose. Michele explains how downloading insights and asking deeper questions has guided her evolution, highlighting the power of releasing old versions of ourselves to step into higher expressions of our work.Through thoughtful reflection, Michele illuminates how following intuitive guidance and embracing our natural talents creates more meaningful business models than forcing ourselves to follow conventional approaches. Her perspective on joint ventures, channeling divine wisdom, and energy management offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking alignment between their spiritual growth and business success.Show Notes:[00:00] - Introduction to Michele's Business Journey* Background in tech marketing across multiple industries* Parallel path of personal healing work alongside corporate career* Recognition that solutions exist for world problems but often lack proper support[04:00] - The Evolution of Her Business Approach* Creating a system to help people unlock their brilliance* Movement toward joint venture projects and collaborations* Transition from advising to co-creating with community members[08:00] - Combining Spiritual Growth with Business* How personal healing journey informed business direction* The process of bringing spiritual insights into practical business models* Death and rebirth cycles in business evolution[14:00] - Joint Venture Vision and Voice Activation* Upcoming retreat on activating the voice* Vision for helping people channel divine wisdom* Releasing generational trauma around self-expression[22:00] - Working with Fear and Energy Protection* Recognizing fear rather than bypassing it* Tools for psychic protection during mission-based work* Using visualization of light vortex for energy clearing[30:00] - Building Authentic Connections* Leaning into natural strengths rather than forcing strategies* Value of one-on-one conversations over mass marketing approaches* Using tools like human design to guide business strategy decisions[37:00] - Reframing Networking for Conscious Entrepreneurs* Setting intentions before entering any space* Trusting that meaningful connections will happen* Creating your own community spaces aligned with your valuesKey Quotes:"There's got to be like this alchemical process where you're releasing your own limiting belief patterns to what's even possible, to then even open yourself up to a higher level of consciousness as well." - Michele Parad"I was constantly asking: What is conscious marketing? Because to me, people defined it as being authentic, as being yourself, as being visible in the best possible way. But what is the deeper meaning of that?" - Michele Parad"I don't really believe there are coincidences, especially if you set the intention before going into a space. Even if it seems very corporate or transactional, you're going to find the right person who might connect you to someone else who is the most aligned for you." - Michele ParadResources Mentioned:* Brilliance Archetype Quiz by Michele Parad* Theta Healing modality* Human Design system* Gene KeysWhere to Find Michele:* Substack: multidimensional-leaders.com* Upcoming Event: Build Your Influence Ecosystem virtual summitIf Michele's approach to intuitive business and aligning with your soul's purpose resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network. As Michele shared, finding your natural strengths and trusting your inner guidance can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business Network.Thank you Edward Zaydelman, Toku McCree, Kyle Shepard, and many others for tuning into Episode 06 of Sacred Business Stories with Michele Parad, and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Maria Gehrke on anchoring vision and Rebecca Weston about trusting long-term transformation.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In Episode 05 of Sacred Business Stories, Jacqueline (MamaJ) Hollows shares her journey from IT project management to working in prisons and supporting social entrepreneurs, highlighting how following intuitive guidance led her to create meaningful work aligned with her deepest purpose. With remarkable vulnerability, she reveals how an unexpected spiritual experience in a park transformed her path and taught her powerful lessons about trust, connection, and the courage to follow her heart even without knowing where it would lead.Through authentic storytelling, MamaJ illuminates how openness to inner guidance—rather than rigid planning—creates greater fulfillment and impact. Her approach to facing fear, embracing resistance as growth, and finding meaning in simple human connections offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to build businesses that honor their intuitive wisdom while creating sustainable success.Show Notes:[00:00] - MamaJ's Business Journey* Transition from IT project management to social enterprise* Following an unexpected calling to work with people in recovery* How her niche found her rather than her deliberately choosing it[04:00] - The Sacred Business Approach* Definition of sacred business as following intuitive guidance* Embracing the unknown rather than rigid planning* Allowing purpose to unfold organically[08:00] - The Prison Experience* Overcoming fear to work in a completely unfamiliar environment* Story of meeting the man who wanted to "see the chicks" (baby birds)* How confronting her own judgments transformed her approach[14:00] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Overcoming extreme fear of public speaking* Viewing resistance as an opportunity for growth* Finding ways to move through fear rather than avoid it[22:00] - Learning to Trust the Process* Following the feeling rather than having all the answers* Learning to recognize insights even without spiritual background* The wisdom of learning goals versus fixed goals[30:00] - Authentic Connection* Keeping communication simple and authentic* Building genuine connections one person at a time* Focusing on impact rather than metrics[37:00] - Impact Beyond What We See* Story of the "press-up guy" whose life was transformed* Understanding we often don't see the full impact of our work* Trusting the process even without visible resultsKey Quotes:"My experience is your niche finds you. You follow the nudges of life, and your niche finds you." - MamaJShare This Quote"Resistance is just showing you there's an area for growth here. It's not a sign [to] don't do that." - MamaJShare This Quote"I don't believe you're ever given anything that you can't do and that you can't learn from. And when you just move through the resistance, actually the other side is beautiful." - MamaJShare This QuoteResources Mentioned:* Book: "Wing of an Angel" by Jacqueline Hollows* Book: "And Death Came Third" (about public speaking fear)* The Three Principles teaching approachWhere to Find MamaJ:* Website: www.jbhollows.co.uk* Substack: Jacqueline (MamaJ) HollowsIf MamaJ's approach to intuitive business and following your heart resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network. As MamaJ shared, finding your own path and trusting your inner guidance can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business Network.Thank you Kyle Shepard, Lazarus, Sue Reid, Josh Woll, Diane Lane, and many others for tuning into Episode 05 of Sacred Business Stories with Jacqueline (MamaJ) Hollows, and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jay Fiset on building business from relationship and Elena Brower about balance in sacred work.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this illuminating conversation, Claudia Faith shares her remarkable journey from traditional startup entrepreneur to successful Substack creator, highlighting how following her creative passion led to building a thriving online business in just six months. With refreshing honesty, she reveals how her most enjoyable moments during her startup journey—writing investor updates with creative flair—pointed toward her true calling, even when she was caught in work that didn't align with her natural talents and interests.Through authentic storytelling, Claudia demonstrates how embracing imperfection, building in public, and focusing on genuine connection created a path to sustainable success. Her approach to overcoming fear, trusting the process, and helping others navigate their own Substack journeys offers valuable insights for creators seeking to transform their passion for writing into profitable businesses that honor their authentic voice.Show Notes:[00:00] - Claudia's Business Journey* Transition from traditional startup CEO to online entrepreneur* Discovering joy in creative writing during investor updates* Building a thriving Substack business in just six months[04:00] - Finding Her Authentic Voice* Initial experimentation with different topics (travel, design thinking)* Recognizing what resonated most with readers* Evolution toward helping writers navigate Substack and monetize their work[10:00] - The Sacred Business Approach* Starting with writing for personal fulfillment* Following natural interests rather than market demands* Creating from authentic connection rather than strategic planning[14:00] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Managing imposter syndrome as a newer online entrepreneur* Writing motivational content as personal reminders* Building confidence through public creation and feedback[17:00] - Trust the Process Philosophy* Embracing imperfection in public creation* Getting comfortable with "letting it be messy"* Using early work as learning opportunities when audience is small[23:00] - Building Authentic Connections* Approaching online relationships with genuine interest* Using Substack notes to create personal connections* Sending personal DMs to new subscribers* Leveraging video and live formats to build deeper relationships[27:00] - Growing Beyond the Newsletter* Expanding from Substack writing to broader business offerings* Helping writers build complete businesses around their newsletters* Using new tools and AI to create additional income streamsKey Quotes:"My favorite part of my startup investor journey was actually writing those investment email updates... It was the most creative part of my job. So I thought, okay, if this is the most fun I have, why not exploring that more?" - Claudia Faith"Trust the process. I do a lot of things. I do a lot of building in public. I'm not so much of a perfectionist, so I don't wait until things are perfect to post them or do them. I just do it. I get it out. I get people's feedback." - Claudia Faith"If your mindset is you want to just grow very quickly and make money... then it's going to be hard for you to find real connections and community because people can tell. My biggest advice would really just be to be yourself." - Claudia FaithWhere to Find Claudia:* Substack: Wander Wealth Helping writers navigate Substack and build profitable online businessesIf Claudia's approach to authentic content creation and building genuine connections resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Claudia shared, finding your creative voice and building supportive relationships can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkIf you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Suzy Ashworth on building confidence in your path and Cindy Childress about owning your story.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt conversation, Landon Poburan shares his journey through multiple business ventures, highlighting how consistently following his inner guidance has led him to create work that truly aligns with his values. With remarkable vulnerability, he reveals how his experience closing a gym despite a $500,000 investment taught him powerful lessons about sacrifice, alignment, and the courage to pivot when something no longer feels right.Through authentic storytelling, Landon illuminates how focusing on what lights him up—rather than chasing external metrics of success—has created greater fulfillment and impact. His approach to consistency, radical incrementalism, and honoring his neurodivergent strengths offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to build businesses that honor their natural rhythms while creating sustainable success.Show Notes:[00:00] - Landon's Business Journey* Experience with multiple businesses and platforms* Consistency as a core principle despite numerous pivots* Finding alignment between passion and profession[04:00] - The Sacred Business Approach* Definition of sacred business as loving what generates income* Challenging cultural focus on specific income targets* Prioritizing fulfillment over traditional success metrics[05:30] - The Gym Experience* Taking a $500,000 loan to build a 6,000 sq ft gym* Recognizing the misalignment despite significant investment* Taking on $100,000 in debt to walk away toward greater fulfillment[10:00] - Following the Signals* Using notes and pattern recognition to guide decisions* The importance of trusting internal guidance* Achieving external goals but still feeling misalignment[14:00] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Self-doubt around expertise and capabilities* Internal conflict when values don't align with clients* Tools for managing resistance: therapy, exercise, meditation[22:00] - The Minimal Viable Habits Approach* Making practices sustainable through radical incrementalism* Creating systems that work on your worst days* Balancing consistency with self-compassion[30:00] - Authentic Communication* Understanding yourself as foundation for authentic expression* The power of openly disagreeing when appropriate* Building connection through honesty rather than agreeability[37:00] - Taking Action to Find Clarity* Learning through experience rather than overthinking* How action reveals the next steps on your path* Turning personal challenges into service for othersKey Quotes:"When I think of sacred business, I believe the definition stems from the ability to truly love and be passionate about what we're doing to generate an income professionally." - Landon Poburan"At the end of the day, the biggest regret isn't 'I didn't make more money.' It's 'I didn't enjoy what I was doing.'" - Landon Poburan"I try to construct the things that drive me forward in a way that I can do it on my worst days. Because then I can still make this incremental movement forward." - Landon PoburanResources Mentioned:* Book: "4,000 Weeks" by Oliver Burkeman* Concept: Radical Incrementalism* Book: "Unmasking Autism"Where to Find Landon:* Substack: Landon’s Letters* Daily notes and 1-2 long-form articles weeklyIf Landon's approach to authentic business and consistent action resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.As Landon shared, finding your own rhythm and building supportive practices can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business connections? Join the Sacred Business NetworkThank you Nancy Watta, Sue Reid, Rachel Connor, PhD, Philip Hofmacher, Hendrix Black, Maria Gehrke , Jacqueline (MamaJ) Hollows, Rebecca Weston, and many others for tuning into Episode 03 of Sacred Business Stories with Landon Poburan and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️ and Carolina Wilke.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Charlie Gilkey on when business finds you and Ryan Levesque about building businesses that serve your vision.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt conversation, Edward Zaydelman shares his transformative journey from running nightclubs in New York City to becoming a respected land development coach and advisor in Costa Rica. With remarkable candor, he reveals how his early ambitions to create wellness retreat centers led to burnout and personal crisis—ultimately guiding him to his true calling as a coach for those looking to build conscious communities and retreat spaces.Through authentic storytelling, Ed illuminates how aligning his business with his natural gifts has created not just professional success, but deep fulfillment and genuine impact. His approach to honest communication, community building, and balancing vision with practical implementation offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to create businesses that honor both profit and purpose.Show Notes:[00:00] - Welcome and Introduction* Phil and Carolina introduce Ed Zaydelman* Background on Ed's influence on Phil's Costa Rica journey[02:50] - Ed's Origin Story* Transition from fast-paced New York nightlife to seeking deeper purpose* Experience working with the Burning Man organization* Family health crisis leading to focus on wellness and lifestyle[06:30] - The Costa Rica Journey* Moving to Costa Rica 20 years ago to create wellness communities* Building retreat centers through "blood, sweat and tears"* Reality of entrepreneurial burnout despite spiritual intentions[13:20] - The Fragmented Approach* Lessons from corporate partnerships gone wrong* How COVID provided opportunity for sacred pause and redirection* Transformation from real estate developer to coach and advisor[23:00] - The Power of Lived Experience* Creating a business based on personal journey and challenges* Value of lessons learned through mistakes* How struggle becomes the foundation for meaningful service[30:00] - Working with Fear and Resistance* Overcoming pressure to build "something big" to feel worthy* Learning to tell clients hard truths from a place of service* Finding confidence in honest communication over people-pleasing[39:00] - Authentic Connection and Communication* Writing from the heart rather than strategic marketing* Building trust through genuine sharing* The power of referrals from authentic relationshipsKey Quotes:"When you operate from this place of truth and service, that's the thing people remember more than anything, even if it's not what they wanted to hear." - Phil Powis"This is true love. True love is not about saying 'you're doing well' when you see it's not exactly what it is. Sometimes those hard truths need to be said." - Carolina Wilke"I think community is based on a set of shared values and principles. Friendship forms from shared values and things we care about." - Ed ZaydelmanResources Mentioned:* Newsletter: Live the Possibility (livethepossibility.news)* Community: Land Steward AllianceWhere to Find Ed:* Substack: Live the Possibility* Services: One-on-one consulting and Land Steward Alliance communityIf Ed's approach to heart-centered business and community building resonates with you, we invite you to join us in the Sacred Business Network.As Ed shared, finding others with aligned values can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business tribe? Join the Sacred Business NetworkThank you Sue Reid, Rachel Connor, PhD, Josh Woll, Maria Gehrke, Josh Woll, Sonja Alina den Elzen R.Ac, and many others for tuning in live to episode 02 of Sacred Business Stories with Edward Zaydelman and your hosts, Phil Powis ❤️⚡️, and Carolina Wilke.P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Toku McCree on the foundations of sacred business and Andrew Horn about authenticity as service.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe

In this illuminating conversation, Toku McCree shares his powerful journey from working 30 different jobs before age 30 to discovering his true calling through Zen monastery living and building a successful coaching practice. With refreshing honesty, he reveals how blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology has allowed him to create a thriving business while maintaining deep alignment with his purpose. His approach to sales as sacred service and unique perspective on building authentic connections offers a masterclass in conscious entrepreneurship.Show Notes:[0:00] - Welcome and introduction to Sacred Business Stories* First episode of weekly Substack Live series* Introduction to Toku McCree's work blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology[3:45] - Toku's Origin Story & Business Evolution* Journey through 30 jobs before age 30* Transformative experience living in a Zen monastery* Discovering his core purpose: "serving those walking the path of awakening"* Evolution into coaching executives and business owners[29:00] - The Hunter & Monk Approach to Sales* Balancing strategic business growth with spiritual wisdom* Reframing sales as supporting client commitment* How to maintain authenticity while being strategic[34:00] - Building Genuine Connections* Proactive approach to relationship building* Creating community in new environments* The power of following up and staying persistent[39:00] - Sacred Approach to Business Growth* Viewing business as spiritual practice* Working with resistance and fear* Finding purpose through continuous questioningKey Quotes: "The best purposes are actually questions." - Toku McCree "You're not selling yourself - you're selling their commitment to their own future." - Toku McCreeResources Mentioned:* Coaching Beyond Yes or No (Toku's upcoming book)* The War of Art by Steven Pressfield* Unconventional Wisdom (Toku's Substack)Where to Find Toku:* Substack: Unconventional Wisdom* Website: unexecutive.com* Coaching: coachingmba.coIf Toku's approach to building meaningful connections and running a business with deep purpose resonates with you, we invite you to join us in the Sacred Business Network. Like Toku shared, having a supportive community of aligned entrepreneurs can transform how you build and grow. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.Ready to find your Sacred Business tribe? P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Elena Brower on sacred business and authentic pricing and Anand Rao about making your business a spiritual path.What’s next?Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:* Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.* Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.* Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.* Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.* Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.* Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.Create a Sacred Business that is the unique expression of all your experience, gifts, and skills. Let's talk about how to make that happen. Get full access to Sacred Business Flow at love.sacredbusinessflow.com/subscribe