The DASH Mindset Podcast

In our last episode, we talked about chasing happiness. This week, I want to answer the question that naturally follows... If happiness isn't the goal, what is? As high-achievers, we often worry that if we become content, we'll stop growing. That appreciating what we have somehow means settling for less. But what if contentment and complacency aren't the same thing? What if accepting where you are isn't about giving up...but about gaining the clarity to intentionally create what comes next? In this episode, I explore the difference between happiness and fulfillment, why so many of us postpone gratitude until the next milestone, and how acceptance, contentment, and congruence work together to create a life that actually fits. What We Explore Happiness vs fulfillment...Why happiness is a feeling that comes and goes, while fulfillment has more staying power because it's rooted in meaning and alignment. Contentment isn't complacency...Why appreciating where you are doesn't mean you've stopped growing…and why "this is enough right now" is very different from "this is enough forever." Acceptance creates clarity...How acknowledging reality isn't settling. It's the starting point for intentional growth. Congruence...Why fulfillment comes from creating a life that fits…one that's aligned with your values, priorities, strengths, and definition of success. Questions to Consider Are you chasing happiness...or creating fulfillment? Where have you been postponing appreciation until the next milestone? And perhaps the biggest question of all... Does this fit? Does this relationship fit? Does this role fit? Does this goal fit? Does this version of success fit? And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people better understand themselves and one another so they can create more meaningful, fulfilling lives and work together more effectively.

It's mid-June, and I've already declared it a long summer. Our boys have been out of school for three weeks, and at this point, my parenting goal is for them to maintain literacy until school starts again in August. I genuinely love having them home, and it's been a long summer. Both can be true…And one of the biggest traps we fall into as humans is thinking they can’t be. We're told to pursue happiness. We think we need to find it, choose it, and protect it...as if happiness is a destination to be reached. But what if the expectation of being happy all the time is actually what keeps us unhappy? In this episode, I explore why we struggle to hold two seemingly opposite truths at the same time. That if we're grateful, we shouldn't feel annoyed. If we're happy, we shouldn't feel sad. If we love our kids, we shouldn't be frustrated by them. But what if the problem isn't that we experience both? What if the problem is that we expect ourselves not to? What We Explore The myth of permanent happiness…Why happiness isn't a destination and why expecting it to be can create unnecessary suffering. The second layer of suffering…How we turn normal human emotions into problems by judging ourselves for experiencing them. Package deals…Why the things we value most often come bundled with both rewards and challenges. The power of "and"...How it can shift the way we think about gratitude, frustration, joy, sadness, and everything in between. Being human…Why experiencing opposite emotions doesn't mean something is wrong. It means you're alive. Questions to Consider Where are you making yourself wrong for being human? What emotion have you been resisting, judging, or trying to eliminate? And what if it's not evidence that something is wrong? What if it's simply part of the package? Here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a meaningful way.

Failure tends to feel personal. A missed opportunity. A mistake at work. A relationship ending. A plan falling apart. For a lot of us, failure doesn’t just feel like something that happened. It feels like evidence about who we are. In this episode, I’m with keynote and workshop speaker Tom Hicks to talk about what happened when a really difficult season of life unexpectedly led him to a set of juggling balls…and ultimately to a completely different relationship with failure. Tom now teaches people and organizations how to juggle while helping them rethink perfectionism, growth, resilience, and what it actually means to fail. We talked about: Why so many high-achievers struggle with failure The difference between understanding growth mindset intellectually vs. actually experiencing it Why play matters more than we realize as adults How curiosity changes our relationship with mistakes The phrase “how fascinating” and why it’s more powerful than it sounds Why many “failures” are actually redirections The importance of kindness toward ourselves  One of my favorite parts of the conversation was this reminder…You already have the ability to navigate failure. You’ve been doing it your entire life. You may just need to reconnect with it. Also… it feels important to mention that we had multiple technology issues and recording glitches during this episode…which made the entire “how fascinating” conversation even more fitting. 😂  About Tom Tom Hicks is the founder and CJO (Chief Juggling Officer) of Throw & Catch Consulting based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He provides practical and fun leadership development experiences that blend storytelling, reflection, and active learning to create deeper connections while playing with a purpose for individuals, teams, and organizations.  Tom has worked at all levels in higher education for the past 20+ years and has coached thousands of students, staff, and executives on failure, growth, and resilience. When he’s not on campus or conducting workshops, Tom enjoys cycling and traveling with his wife Megan and cheering on their daughter Emily in all of her activities. Here’s where you can find Tom… Website: tom-hicks.com LinkedIn: Tom Hicks And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a meaningful way.

What if the thing you never saw coming…became the very thing that shaped how you move forward? Laura Bratton was diagnosed with a rare eye disease as a child and lost her sight as a teenager…several years earlier than anyone expected. We talk about what it looked like to navigate that kind of change in real time…without a roadmap, without certainty, and without the option to pause life while she figured it out. But this conversation isn’t about blindness. It’s about what happens when life doesn’t go the way you thought it would…and how you keep going anyway. We explore what actually helped her move forward, how she learned to stop fighting reality, and why “enough” might be the most powerful shift of all. What We Explore Grit and gratitude…together Not as buzzwords…but as real, usable resources. Why it’s not one or the other, and how the balance of both is what actually helps you move forward. Living in the moment (when everything feels overwhelming) When the future feels too big, too uncertain, too much…what it looks like to narrow your focus to today, and why that’s not giving up. It’s survival. Why “enough” matters more than you think How redefining what counts as “enough” can shift everything, especially in seasons of change, grief, or uncertainty. The stories we believe about strength Why pushing through, ignoring emotions, and being “fine” can actually make things harder…and what happens when you stop fighting what you feel. What real support actually looks like Not pity. Not fixing. Not making things easier. But people who believe in you…even when you don’t believe in yourself. The pressure of uncertainty (and how to navigate it) Why the uncertainty doesn’t go away…and what you can control instead. Letting yourself feel what’s real From anxiety to grief to anger…why turning toward your emotions (instead of pushing them down) changes everything. About Laura At the age of nine, Laura was diagnosed with an eye disease and faced the difficult reality that she would become blind. Over the next ten years she experienced the traumatic transition of adjusting to life without sight.  Laura adjusted to her new normal and was able to move forward in life as she graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in psychology. She then was the first blind student to receive her Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary.   She is the author of the book, Harnessing Courage. Laura founded Ubi Global, which is an organization that provides speaking and coaching to empower all people to overcome challenges and obstacles with grit and gratitude. Here’s where you can find Laura… Website: https: laurabratton.com Video Highlight Reel: Speaker Reel And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a meaningful way.

Do you love dandelions…or hate them? Because people tend to have very strong opinions about this. In this episode, I share why I still love them…even knowing everything that comes with them… a really simple example of something we do all the time. Two people can look at the exact same thing…and see something completely different. Same situation. Same conversation. Same moment. Completely different reactions. And when that happens, we often assume the other person just doesn’t get it. But what if it’s not that they don’t understand… What if they’re just seeing something different? We explore what’s actually driving those reactions, why it creates so much unnecessary friction, and how expanding your capacity for difference can make things feel a whole lot easier. Because it’s usually not about the dandelion. 😉 What We Explore Same thing, different experience Why two people can look at the exact same situation and walk away with completely different interpretations…and why that’s more normal than we think. It’s not just the moment How past experiences, beliefs, preferences, and expectations shape how we see and respond to things (often without us even realizing it). “They just don’t get it…” Why we assume others are wrong or missing something…and what’s actually happening instead. Capacity for difference What it is, why it matters, and how expanding it reduces tension in conversations, relationships, and everyday interactions. Letting go of the need to convince Why there isn’t always a clear right or wrong…and how much easier things feel when we stop trying to force it. A Question to Consider Where are the “dandelions” showing up in your life right now? What’s something you feel strongly about…that someone else sees completely differently? And what might they be seeing that you’re not? And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working together at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn…I’m pretty active there and always love hearing from you. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d genuinely love to hear it…send it my way! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On Apple, scroll down and tap the stars (and write a review if you’re up for it). On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people find the podcast…and ultimately helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that actually feels meaningful.

What if you’re not stuck…you just think you have to pick one lane and stay in it? Kris Lehman is a full-time HR leader…who’s also leading international retreats, taking a group of women to Croatia, and buying a house in Costa Rica. She made a choice and decided against the “pick one lane and stay there” route. We talk about what shifted for her, how she moved from “either/or” to “and,” and why so many of us keep waiting to live instead of actually doing the things we want now. What We Explore From “or” to “and” How letting go of the pressure to choose one identity or path opened up entirely new possibilities…and how “and” creates space instead of pressure. Boundaries that actually feel good Not just saying no…but building your life around what matters most so your “no” becomes clear, confident, and grounded. Why we wait to live (and how to stop) The trap of postponing joy for “someday”…and what it looks like to start living now…without blowing up your life in the process. The stories we don’t realize we’re telling ourselves From “I should clean my own house” to “I don’t deserve that”...We discuss how these unexamined beliefs quietly shape our choices. Contemplative practice (without the woo-woo) What it actually means to be more present in your life…and how it can be as simple as a few breaths, a walk, or noticing what’s happening in the moment. Your mind is not you One of the most powerful shifts: realizing you can observe your thoughts instead of automatically believing them. About Kris Kris Lehman, MBA, SHRM-SCP, is the founder of The Common Thread, an organization dedicated to cultivating inner wisdom, meaningful connection, and intentional living and leadership. Kris creates experiences that blend professional insight, contemplative practices, and community—helping people translate reflection into practical change.  With a background as an executive leader in higher education and nonprofit organizations, Kris has spent her career helping teams succeed by pairing business strategy with curiosity, compassion, and continuous learning. Alongside her professional work, Kris has spent years exploring meditation, grounding practices, and restorative travel as pathways for insight and clarity. Through The Common Thread’s workshops, gatherings, and international retreats, she creates spaces where people can step out of daily life for a moment, to reconnect with what matters most. Here’s where you can find Kris… Website: www.thecommonthread.world Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecommonthreadconnections/ LinkedIn: Kris Lehman And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a meaningful way.

What if work didn’t have to feel so…sucky? TJ Bennett is on a mission to help people figure that out. We talk about his DesuckifyWork® podcast, his path through advertising, the pressure we put on ourselves to have everything figured out (even though none of us do), and what actually makes work…and life…feel better. A fun and honest conversation about how things actually unfold. TJ didn’t have some perfectly mapped-out plan. He followed what was interesting, paid attention to what felt off, and made changes along the way. From randomly discovering advertising…to realizing later in his career that something had shifted…to leaving a successful career to try something new without knowing exactly how it would all work. We also talk about how early experiences shape the way we see work and life, and how sometimes it takes something significant to make us pause and rethink what actually matters. And throughout the conversation, this idea keeps coming up: We think we need to know first…and then act. But most of the time, it’s actually the opposite. We try something. We figure it out as we go. We adjust. That’s the process. It’s simple. Not always easy. But much truer than the story most of us are carrying. We Talk About: The unexpected path that led TJ into advertising (and how one seemingly random moment can change everything) Why not knowing how is usually the thing keeping us stuck  How a major health experience early in life shifted how he thinks about work and what actually matters The moment “Desuckify” became a thing…and why he committed before he had it all figured out Why “fine” can be dangerous The pressure we all feel to have it figured out (and the fact that none of us actually do) Why enjoyment might be one of the most underrated tools we have About TJ Bennett TJ is the founder, CEO and executive coach at The Pudding Factory, a work desuckifying consultancy. He began his coaching career after 25 years as an advertising executive, creative director and writer for agencies big and small., including TBWA\Chiat\Day, Saatchi & Saatchi, Ogilvy and Hill Holliday. He helped Fortune 500 clients like Verizon, Toyota, MetLife and Panasonic sift through the noise to solve big creative challenges. And he helped his teams do the same. His mission is to DesuckifyWork®. And he hosts a popular podcast with the same name. His cat Carl offers this review: “less talking, more treats dude." As an ICF-certified executive coach, TJ helps leaders and brands find calm in the chaos and grow what matters.  Ready to make sense of the muck? Talk to TJ.  Here’s where you can find TJ… Website: https://www.thepuddingfactory.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teejaybee/ Substack: https://tjbennett.substack.com/ And here’s where you can find me… Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

What if the thing you’re trying so hard to tone down is actually the thing that makes your work resonate? I’m joined by Hallee Dunsky, self proclaimed “writer for weirdos,” for a conversation about finding your voice and letting what makes you different work for you. A discussion about voice, energy, self-permission, and why waiting until “the kids are older” makes little sense. Hallee shares her non-linear journey from teaching to freelance writing, the difference between copywriting and content writing, and why so many meaningful messages fall flat on the page…even when they sound brilliant in our heads. We also talk about energy differences, honoring how we’re wired, letting go of perfection, and why consistency matters more than intensity when it comes to creative work. This episode is full of insight and plenty of relatable moments…from bathroom breaks in fifth grade classrooms to writing novels 200 words at a time. If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do, worried about being “too much” or “not enough,” or felt like you needed permission before starting something, listen in. We Talk About: Why so many powerful ideas land flat once they hit the page The difference between copywriting and content writing (and why it matters…even though no one dies either way) Honoring your natural energy instead of fighting it Letting go of the need to appeal to everyone Why “writer for weirdos” is a brilliant filter Starting before you feel ready (and before you feel confident) Why small, imperfect progress beats waiting for ideal conditions The messy reality of creative processes About Hallee Dunsky Hallee Dunsky is a freelance writer with over a decade of experience writing marketing copy and content for businesses that want to bring their mind-expanding mission down to Earth. Enlivened by the absurd and passionate about marinating deeply in the human experience, she lives outside the lines, collaborating with clients to turn meaningful missions into impactful messages, aligned voices, and resonant words.  Connect with Hallee Website: www.writerforweirdos.com LinkedIn: Hallee Dunsky Let’s Connect Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

My friend Megan Thole joins me for an honest conversation about what mindfulness and emotional intelligence actually look like in real life…especially for high-achievers who have a hard time slowing down. Megan shares how her experiences with infertility, chronic illness, and burnout led her to explore mindfulness not as a luxury, but as a necessary skill for navigating work, life, and leadership. We talk about why high-achievers struggle with rest, how negative self-talk and the stories we tell ourselves shape our reactions, and why trying to separate our “work selves” from our “personal selves” doesn’t really work. We also explore the difference between eliminating stress and learning how to recover from it, what resilience really looks like, and how small, consistent practices can make a meaningful difference…without adding more to an already full plate. This episode is a reminder that mindfulness isn’t about being perfect or clearing your mind. It’s about noticing, creating space, and making small shifts that help you show up more intentionally…for yourself and for the people around you. We Talk About: What mindfulness actually looks like in real life (not the Instagram version) Why rest feels so uncomfortable for high-achievers How our inner dialogue quietly drives stress and self-doubt The stories we tell ourselves…and how often they’re untrue Small, practical ways to pause, reset, and show up more intentionally Why we bring our whole selves to work…whether we admit it or not How resilience is built through recovery, not perfection About Megan Thole Megan Thole is a speaker, coach, and trainer with over 14 years of experience across higher education and financial services. As the founder of Hello Mindful You, she helps professionals and leaders build self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the clarity to lead with intention. Megan blends practical leadership tools with human-centered practices that support sustainable performance and presence, helping leaders navigate change and manage competing demands with greater focus and purpose. She holds a master's degree in leadership and management and is certified in change management, mindfulness, and coaching.   Connect with Megan Website: www.hellomindfulyou.com LinkedIn: Megan Thole Instagram: Hello Mindful You Let’s Connect Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review.  On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.”  On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.”  Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

What if midlife isn’t something to “get through”…but something to lean into? In this episode, Nicole Studt and I talk about all things midlife…identity, pivoting with intention, maps, payphones, and why the middle years may hold more meaning and growth than we expect. Nicole shares her journey from corporate HR to self-employment, how flexibility became a gift during some of life’s hardest seasons, and why understanding ourselves (and each other) matters more than ever. We explore how tools like the Enneagram can deepen compassion, strengthen relationships, and reduce unnecessary friction…at work, at home, and within ourselves. It’s a powerful reminder that we don’t have to wait for “someday” to live fully aligned lives. Midlife isn’t the end of the story…it’s often where clarity, courage, and self-trust finally start to click into place. If you’re wanting to understand yourself more deeply, rethink what success means, or reduce friction in your life and work, listen in. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why the “middle age” narrative needs a serious reframe Making career pivots that prioritize flexibility, values, and real life The unexpected gifts of working for yourself (and with family) How the Enneagram helps us understand why we do what we do Navigating relationships through personality awareness Why the middle years deserve more credit than they get About Nicole Studt Nicole Studt hosts The Marvelous Middle Age Podcast, a weekly podcast focused on building a community of people in midlife.  She is an experienced Virtual Assistant with nine years in the field, and a certified Enneagram Coach. She is deeply passionate about empowering individuals to thrive in their current season of life—especially women navigating midlife. Nicole holds a B.S. in Applied Business from Mount Mercy University and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University, and she has over 20 years of experience as a Human Resources Professional. She has been happily married to her husband for 20 years, and together they are the proud parents of a 19-year-old son. Nicole is a devoted believer and encourager. She enjoys advocating for people with disabilities, spending quality time with her family, and listening to podcasts. A unique aspect of her personal journey includes reclaiming her health and body, during which she lost over 100 pounds and underwent three skin removal surgeries. This transformation fuels her commitment to personal growth and living a vibrant, fulfilling life. Connect with Nicole The Marvelous Middle-Aged Podcast Instagram Let’s Connect Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

Gratitude can feel annoying when we’re tired, overwhelmed, or just trying to get through the day. This episode isn’t about forcing gratitude or pretending things are fine. Instead, I share a list of 80 real-life things we tend to overlook…the kind we forget to notice when we’re busy getting through the day. This isn’t a 5am, burn-sage, reach inner-peace kind of gratitude episode. It’s a reminder that we’re often so focused on what’s next…or what’s missing…that we forget to notice what’s already working, what we’ve already handled, and how much we’ve already grown. You don’t need a notebook. You don’t need to pause and reflect. You don’t need to “do” anything at all. Just listen. And if one thing on the list resonates, fantastic. What This Episode Might Shift for You A more realistic view of your progress…even if things feel messy right now Less pressure to constantly “fix” yourself or your life More appreciation for the small steps you’ve already taken A reminder that progress doesn’t have to be big and impressive to count Closing Thought Progress doesn’t always look like a big, impressive moment. If your brain tends to focus on how far you still think you need to go, that doesn’t mean you haven’t made progress. It just means you’re human. You can download the full list using the link below and revisit it anytime you need the reminder. Thanks for listening! You get one dash. Make it matter. Let’s Connect Download the 80 Things to Be Thankful For list. Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

After an unplanned podcast hiatus due to tech avoidance and a little story inflation, Sheri is back with an honest conversation about the stories we tell ourselves…and how they quietly keep us stuck. In this episode, Sheri unpacks why manageable tasks turn into overwhelming “elephants,” how perfectionism and accountability (or the lack of it) fuel avoidance, and why progress almost always starts with a tiny, imperfect step. It’s a reminder that most of what we avoid isn’t actually as hard as we tell ourselves it is. If you’ve been putting something off, overthinking a simple next step, or telling yourself a convincing story about why “now isn’t the time,” this episode is your nudge forward. Because most of the things we avoid aren’t actually elephants at all. They’re more like squirrels…chaotic and distracting, but completely manageable.   What This Episode Might Shift for You A more realistic perspective on the thing you’ve been avoiding Less pressure to have it all figured out before you begin Permission to take a small, imperfect first step A more grounded, realistic story about what’s actually required In This Conversation Why Sheri was MIA for a while… and what was happening behind the scenes How accountability (or the lack of it) impacts follow-through Why we avoid things we’re fully capable of doing How perfection turns small tasks into massive mental projects Four practical ways to shrink the story and move forward Try This After Listening Name the thing you’ve been avoiding…out loud if possible Identify the smallest first step rather than focusing on the entire project Ask yourself: What’s the 60-second action I could take today? Give yourself permission to be a beginner and move forward imperfectly And listen to my friend Sue’s podcast that I mentioned! Susan M. Barber at The Visibility Factor Podcast.   Closing Thought If something in your life has gotten bigger in your head than it actually is, this is your reminder: stories can be rewritten, and momentum starts small. If this episode resonated, please share it, subscribe, and stay tuned…Sheri is officially back. The elephant has been eaten.   Thanks for listening! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect: Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Reach out if you’d like to explore how I can be a resource for you. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it!

What do you really want? (And why that question feels so hard) We can all list what we don’t want…burnout, bad bosses, endless countdowns to Friday. But when it comes to answering “What do I want?” most people find it harder to answer than expected. In fact, over 85% of people admit they don’t know what they truly want in life or their career. In this episode, I share why focusing on what you don’t want keeps you stuck…and how shifting to what you do want points you toward a more fulfilling personal and professional life. Feeling stuck? Find yourself saying, “I don’t want this…” more than “I do want that…”? Tired of running on autopilot? Take a listen. Here's what you'll learn: Why focusing on what you don’t want keeps you in the very place you’re trying to escape How the “pink elephant” effect hijacks your attention Three clarifying questions that unlock what you really want How small, everyday clues (like what lights you up) point to bigger patterns Why writing it down matters (and how it helps create direction without needing a perfect plan) Two takeaways you can try today: When you catch yourself focusing on what you don’t want, pause and ask: “Okay, then what DO I want? Answer these three questions in writing (no editing, no disclaimers): When have I felt most alive or fulfilled in the past year? If I could wave a magic wand, what would my ideal personal and professional life look like? What do I want to experience more of? Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect: Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Reach out if you’d like to explore how I can be a resource for you. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it!

What if you stopped being busy as a bee…and started being focused as one? In this episode, I’m joined by keynote speaker, coach, and author Jones Loflin, who brings insights from the beehive to our everyday busyness. His latest book, Focused As A Bee (co-written with his daughter, Sydney Loflin), draws on lessons from their real-life beekeeping adventures and offers a more intentional, energizing way to live and work. Drawing on 30+ years of experience and real-life lessons from beekeeping with his daughter, Jones helps us rethink the way we use our time, our energy, and our focus. We also touch on his popular book Juggling Elephants, which uses the metaphor of a 3-ring circus (work, self, and relationships) to help people stop trying to do it all…and start doing what matters. Feeling overwhelmed or constantly “on”? Wish you could recharge without guilt? Tired of juggling elephants? You’ll hear relatable stories about over-functioning, letting go of guilt, and vacation boundaries, and you’ll learn a few simple strategies you can put into action right away. If you’ve been juggling elephants, trying to do it all, or waiting for permission to slow down, take a listen. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why “busy” is a trap and what bees can teach us about working with intention The formula for true focus…intentional, time and energy, and what matters most Six types of permission we need to give ourselves (like the permission to prioritize and unplug) What it really means to be “unavailable” and why it’s crucial, not selfish How the “juggling elephants” mindset leads to burnout and what to do instead Why breathing, napping, and setting boundaries are power moves (not signs of weakness) How to stop over-functioning and stop waiting for someone else to give you permission to rest Ways to model healthy habits for others…especially if you're in a leadership role Two takeaways you can try today: Take micro-breaks like a bee. Even the hardest-working bees take 40 mini-naps per day to recharge. Pause for a deep breath or a short walk between tasks. Start your day with intention, not email. Ask yourself, “What do I want to get out of today?” before letting distractions drive your to-do list. Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out Jones’s website: JonesLoflin.com Connect with Jones on LinkedIn: (in/jonesloflin) Take Jones’s free Focus Assessment at jonesloflin.com/podcast Learn more about his books: Focused As A Bee 🐝 Juggling Elephants Always Growing About Jones Loflin Jones Loflin has made it his life’s work to deliver powerful ideas and practical solutions to individuals around the world so they can achieve more of what is most important to them. Prior to becoming an internationally-recognized speaker, Jones was an educator. His past work also includes serving as the "Trainer of Trainers" for the best-selling book, Who Moved My Cheese? Jones holds a BS and M.Ed. from North Carolina State University. Jones believes the key to success is being passionate about certain things in life, including family, spiritual beliefs, career, and relationships. His favorite quote is by Zig Ziglar: “Go as far as you can see by faith, and when you get there you can see farther.” When not working with some amazing individuals and organizations seeking better results, Jones resides in North Carolina with his wonderful wife Lisa. They have two perfect daughters and one really cool son-in-law. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

What happens when you stop waiting for permission, start asking better questions, and lean into what’s always come naturally to you? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michael White – someone who turned curiosity and asking the right questions into a career that fits. From corporate analyst to CEO of his own training company, Michael’s story is a reminder: your strengths are always showing up. The key is being curious enough to notice. What You’ll Learn: In this conversation, we explore how curiosity, asking the right questions, and paying attention to what comes naturally can create new opportunities – sometimes in unexpected ways. You'll hear: How Michael’s curiosity and love of asking questions led him to build a whole new career The surprising parallels between business analysis, coaching, matchmaking – and how it all comes down to asking better questions Why you don’t need to wait for permission to try something new How peeling back the layers often leads to clarity (in work, life, and relationships) The myth of job security and how to trust yourself to take the next step How connecting the dots backward often reveals how aligned you already are with what you’re meant to do If you’re interested in business analysis, you’ll appreciate this one. But even if you’re not, this conversation goes beyond the technical. It’s really about curiosity, confidence, and creating a career – and life – that aligns with who you are. Because your dash deserves more than autopilot. About Dr. Michael White:      Dr. Michael F. White is the founder of The Business Analysis Doctor, LLC, a global business analysis (BA) training provider specializing in certifications administered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) as well as hands-on business analysis training. Through his rich and consistent content, Michael has transformed social media into an educational platform for individuals pursuing a BA certification and those wanting to learn more about the BA profession. His training programs offer a unique blend of flexibility, application, and practicality, presenting course material to adult learners in ways they can easily incorporate into daily life. With an incredible thirst for knowledge, Michael holds a Doctor of Business Administration, CBAP, IIBA-AAC, IIBA-CBDA, and CSSGB. Where to Find Dr. Michael White Website: TheBadoc.com LinkedIn: Michael White YouTube: The Business Analysis Doctor - IIBA Certification Podcast: The Business Analysis Doctor Podcast Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Why would you want to quit being a CPA to be a glorified waitress? This is one of the questions Kathy Healy was asked after making the decision to leave her public accounting career and become a flight attendant. And she did it anyway. In this episode, I'm joined by Kathy Healy and her daughter Dana for a fun conversation about making bold moves later in life. After more than 20 years as a CPA, Kathy made the decision to become a flight attendant at age 52. While most people her age are counting down to retirement, she left her job just months before 9/11 turned the airline industry upside down. We Talk About: What motivated her to make the change The surprising challenges and rewards of flight attendant training What it’s like to completely shift your day-to-day life and start over How age doesn’t have to be a limitation (unless you decide it does) Why it’s okay to want something different — and actually go for it Kathy shares her story with honesty, humor, and the kind of perspective that only comes from doing the thing most people talk themselves out of. If you’ve ever thought you’re not the “right” age for something, or you just want to hear from someone who took a risk and doesn’t regret it…This is proof that possibility doesn’t expire. And the best chapters of your story might be the ones you haven't written yet. 🎥 Watch the short video from Kathy’s final flight (also her YouTube debut) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g8rTeeR9VU About Kathy Healy Kathy Healy spent over 20 years as a CPA, including roles in corporate accounting, teaching, and public accounting (McGladrey & Pullen brought her back three separate times - but that's another story!). In 2001, at age 52, she traded spreadsheets for airplane aisles, becoming a Southwest Airlines flight attendant until her retirement in 2022. She now enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, attending Iowa women's basketball games, cheering on Caitlin Clark, and spending time with family and friends. If this conversation with Kathy inspired you to think differently about what's possible, please share with a friend who might need to hear it too, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Thanks for listening!  Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Ever find yourself (or your friends) dating the same type of person over and over? Wondering why it never works out? Or maybe you're not dating at all…because the whole thing feels exhausting, confusing, or like it just isn't working anymore? In this episode, I'm joined by my dear friend Cat Cantrill, a professional matchmaker and dating coach who's not afraid to tell it like it is with honesty and kindness. Cat shares her own unexpected journey from corporate life to dance studio ownership to helping people find love for a living. And, of course, we talk about why people stay stuck in the same patterns, how early experiences shape our approach to love, and what it really takes to find (and keep) a meaningful relationship. It’s not about having a longer checklist or perfecting your profile (although pics without shower curtains, toilets, or dead fish is a great start). Whether you're swiping, settled, or somewhere in between, you'll be entertained and reminded why we're all a little weird, especially when it comes to love. What You’ll Learn Why your dating “wants” might be blocking your actual needs How limiting beliefs and early experiences shape your love life (and how to change them) What attachment styles are and how they play out in relationships and even at work Common dating mistakes and how to refine your dating behavior without changing or faking who you are Why being “open for business” is the #1 tip for finding love Whether you're single, supporting a friend, or just fascinated by human behavior, you'll find insights and entertainment about relationships, vulnerability, and what it means to truly connect. Some Highlights Cat’s collaborative and global matchmaking network and database Cat’s live dating gameshow in 2022 Why secure attachment styles are relationship gold About Cat Cantrill Cat Cantrill is a professional matchmaker and dating coach who has been helping singles find meaningful connections since 2015. With a background in psychology and sociology, she combines her deep understanding of human behavior with a passion for guiding clients through the complexities of modern dating. Cat is the founder of The Scottsdale Matchmaker (formerly The Heart Agency), with offices in Iowa and Scottsdale, Arizona, where she offers bespoke matchmaking services tailored to each client’s unique needs. Cat’s approach is grounded in empathy and relationship science, offering practical, no-nonsense coaching to help clients refine their dating strategy and gain clarity about what they’re truly seeking in a partner. In 2021, Cat launched the podcast, Dear Matchmaker, which ranked in the top 5% globally and was nominated for the Iowa Podcast Award’s Best Relationship Podcast in 2024. She has been a featured speaker at the Global Love Institute and has been a guest expert on over 20 podcasts. Cat has made appearances on CBS and PBS, and has been featured in Datingadvice.com (July 2024) as a leader in her industry and Fortune Magazine (June 2024) as an elite matchmaker. Additionally, she was honored as a nominee for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Woman of the Year in 2016 and received the HER Magazine Women of Achievement Award in 2018. Where to Find Cat Cantrill Instagram: catcantrill Facebook: catcantrill TikTok: @catcantrill LinkedIn: catcantrill Website: ScottsdaleMatchmaker.com Podcast: Dear Matchmaker All the Links 💬 “Don’t dull your shine. The brighter you shine, the more people can find you.” – Cat Cantrill Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me to see how I can be a resource for you! Share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Ever feel like you're living the same day over and over? Wake up, check email, coffee, shuffle kids to practice or a game, try to get a few more things done, collapse into bed, repeat. In this episode, we explore why high-achieving professionals get trapped in cycles of autopilot living, both at work and at home. The very traits that drove your success (ambition, discipline, consistency, drive) can become the prison bars that keep you stuck in predictable routines that drain rather than energize you. We'll dive into examples of how successful professionals find themselves in cruise control at work despite their achievements, and how that same autopilot energy extends to their personal lives, turning relationships into logistics coordination and weekends into just another to-do list. And we'll discuss three specific strategies to introduce intentional change without overhauling your entire life. This episode is for you if you're killing it professionally but feel like you're disappearing from your own life. If you're tired of feeling like an efficient hamster on an expensive wheel and want to feel alive in both the career and personal life you've already built, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: How to recognize when success has shifted into autopilot mode and why it's draining your energy across all areas of life. Why high achievers get trapped in predictable patterns and how this affects both work satisfaction and personal relationships. Small adjustments that create ripple effects without overwhelming your schedule. Three practical approaches: Do something surprising, incorporate adventure into your day, and have a two-minute conversation. How to redirect existing energy rather than adding new tasks to your already full life. Check in with yourself this week: What's one small shift you can make that breaks your current pattern? Pick the strategy that excited you most and commit to trying it for four weeks. If you found value in today’s episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing this message! And if you loved it, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five-star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Thanks for listening!  Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Ever feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of proving your worth? In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked, yet constant need to prove ourselves. Whether it’s proving our worth to others or to ourselves, this mindset can lead to burnout, frustration, and a sense of emptiness—despite all the achievements we accumulate along the way. We’ll dive into real-life examples of how high-performers often find themselves stuck in the endless cycle of over-proving and why this habit can be so exhausting. And we’ll discuss why it’s important to shift from proving yourself to intentionally choosing what aligns with your true desires and values. It’s all about moving from “I CAN do this” to “Do I WANT to do this?” This episode is for you if you’ve ever felt compelled to prove your worth in your career, relationships, or any other aspect of life, even to yourself. If you're tired of running on empty and want to align your choices with what truly matters, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: How to recognize the cycle of proving yourself and how it affects your well-being. Why it’s easy to get stuck in “proving mode” and how this leads to burnout. The power of shifting from “I CAN” to “Do I WANT?” and how it changes the way you approach decisions. Practical tips on setting boundaries and aligning your choices with what energizes and fulfills you. Check in with yourself this week: What’s one area where you’re still trying to prove yourself? Take action and start making intentional choices that align with your true self! If you found value in today’s episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing this message! And if you loved it, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five-star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Thanks for listening!  Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Are you living your authentic life or following someone else's formula? Lindsay Leahy joins me for this episode, where we discuss the journey from conventional success to authentic purpose. Founder of The Restoration Project and USA Best Selling Author of Take It All Apart: How to Live, Lead, and Work with Intention, Lindsay shares her personal transformation from a corporate career that left her "deeply lonely and empty" despite checking all the societal boxes for success. Through her story of intentional inner work, Lindsay reveals how true fulfillment comes from within rather than external achievements. The discussion dives into how our inner narratives shape our choices, the importance of letting go of control, and why leadership development must include personal reflection. Lindsay emphasizes that everyone's path is unique, challenging listeners to create their own "life formula" rather than following predetermined routes. This episode offers both inspiration and practical guidance for anyone feeling successful on paper but unfulfilled in reality. Episode Highlights: Lindsay's Personal Journey: Transition from college to corporate life with the mindset of "I want to try all the things" The awakening to her true purpose despite external success Experiencing deep loneliness and emptiness while "checking all the boxes" The Process of Transformation: The importance of "letting go" as the first step in personal growth How coaching creates safe spaces for authentic exploration The continuous nature of inner work…a journey, not a destination Practical approaches to changing limiting beliefs and behaviors Leadership and Self-Discovery: Why leadership development must include personal reflection Creating your own unique "life formula" rather than following others' The balance between listening to your heart and your head How self-honesty becomes the foundation for meaningful growth Choice and Control: Understanding how our inner narratives shape our actions The relationship between control seeking and the desire for safety Embracing flexibility and adaptability in planning Celebrating the courage to change paths About Lindsay Leahy: Lindsay Leahy is a proud wife, daughter, auntie, and friend. She is passionate about Jesus, hugs, dreams, adventures, and deep conversation. She is the author of Take It All Apart: How to Live, Lead, and Work with Intention; creator of the blog Grit, Gratitude, and Grace; and the founder and Dream Builder at The Restoration Project, a women-owned coaching and consulting practice that provides experiences, programs, and services to improve organizational health, team and leadership effectiveness, and individual well-being. Where to Find Lindsay Leahy, Her Best-Selling Book, and The Restoration Project Take It All Apart Swamp Fox Bookstore in Marion, Iowa The Restoration Project Facebook: The Restoration Project LinkedIn: Lindsay Leahy LinkedIn: The Restoration Project Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me to see how I can be a resource for you! Share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Ever wonder why "work smarter, not harder" advice feels so frustrating when you're burned out? What if your exhaustion has less to do with time management and more to do with your beliefs? We explore how tying your sense of worth to your productivity creates a trap that no productivity hack can fix. Discover three signs that your burnout might be worth-related and walk away with a powerful reflection that could change your relationship with work and with yourself. Key Takeaways: Burnout isn't just about having too much to do. It's about what's driving your busyness. When your sense of value is tied to your productivity, it’s hard to stop, even when you’re exhausted. The pressure to prove yourself often drives burnout more than the actual workload. 3 Signs Your Burnout Is Connected to Worth: 1. You feel uncomfortable resting You feel pressure to be productive in all aspects of life all of the time. Rest triggers guilt instead of recovery. 2. Positive feedback adds pressure Being known as reliable makes you feel trapped. You worry about disappointing others if you slow down. You hide struggles to maintain your "capable" image. 3. You say yes even when tapped out Decisions are driven by managing others' perceptions. Setting boundaries feels threatening to your relationships. Saying "no" creates significant discomfort. Ask yourself this question…"If I believed I was already enough, what would I do differently today?"  Want to make one small shift this week? Make one decision today that supports your energy, not your image. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, I reflect on my experience at the Fallas Festival, an unforgettable annual celebration in Valencia, Spain, complete with fireworks, traditional attire, and hundreds of giant sculptures locals spend months building, then ultimately set on fire. At first glance, it seems unbelievable and a tad insane. How could they burn something so elaborate to the ground? But then I realized that’s not really the point. What matters most is what was built along the way. The teamwork. The growth. The shared experience. And maybe that’s what we take with us more than anything else. I explore three lessons from this tradition and how they apply to our personal and professional lives, particularly when we’re navigating change, starting something new, or deciding what to let go of. This episode is for you if you’ve ever felt the urge to start over, have been discouraged by a detour, or need the reminder that even when things don’t go as planned, you’ve still moved forward. Listen in to reframe what “starting over” really means and rediscover the value in what you've already built. Key Takeaways: The process is the point. Growth happens in the doing, not just the outcome. Not everything needs to be burned down. Sometimes a pivot is more powerful than a restart. What you learn is transferable. Every step forward builds momentum, even if the outcome changes. Setbacks aren’t failures. They help you learn and move forward next time. Nothing is wasted. Your effort, learning, and growth stay with you. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

What are the common threads throughout your life and career? Strategic thinking? Risk-taking? Innovation? Human understanding? Something else entirely?  These patterns are often unclear until we take a step back and reflect. My friend Lance McDonald shares his career journey from aviation to youth ministry to finance, including his strategy for approaching each transition along the way. While these industries seem vastly different, a step back reveals the common threads that connected them all. Lance’s story highlights the power of informational interviews, intentional networking, and recognizing when to pivot versus when to persist.  We also discuss how early exposure to diverse career paths shapes better professional choices and why building meaningful connections is key to navigating career transitions. Key Insights: Your career path may not be linear, but you have more transferable skills than you think. Risk analysis, problem solving, relationship-building, and strategic thinking are valuable across industries. A strong network and openness to learning accelerate career transitions. Adaptability and persistence are equally important in determining the career meant for you. Whether you're considering a career change or reflecting on your own professional journey, this episode will help you identify the common threads that shape your path. More About Lance: Lexington Capital, LLC is a Registered Investment Advisor, dedicated to reducing investment risk and increasing investment return with client accounts. Prior to the creation of Lexington Capital, LLC, Lance worked for an institutional investment firm where he was responsible for marketing investment strategies and providing technical market research on a $3 billion fixed income investment portfolio.   Learn more about Lance and Lexington Capital, LLC here, or contact Lance at [email protected]. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me to see how I can be a resource for you! Share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

What are you saying "yes" to that's requiring you to say "no" to something else? Is your calendar full of obligations? Or commitments you've made out of genuine desire? How you spend your time is how you spend your life. Are you living it in a way that's meaningful to YOU? In this episode, we examine the tendency to fill our calendars with obligations that may not truly align with our desires. Through relatable examples, I share how to evaluate your social commitments and prioritize activities that genuinely bring you joy and fulfillment, highlighting the importance of making conscious choices about your time to create a more meaningful life by YOUR standards. Key Takeaways: Your time choices ultimately define your life experience. Learn to recognize when you're filling your calendar with obligations versus genuine desires. Evaluate social commitments based on how they truly serve and fulfill you. Remember that every "yes" automatically creates a "no" to something else. Create a life that's meaningful by YOUR standards, not others’. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

"I’ll do it when things slow down." "Next month has to be better." When was the last time you said something like that? I’ve said it several times throughout my life, and I’m guessing you have, too. But here’s the thing…Life rarely slows down. So why do we keep believing it will? In this episode, I dive into the psychological reasons behind our tendency to postpone meaningful activities and goals. I share the concept of future time slack, the belief that we’ll have more time in the future than we do today, and why it so often leads to regret. Spoiler: The perfect time to start doesn’t exist. But small steps do. Takeaways: ✔ We often postpone things, thinking there will be a better time later. ✔ Future time slack explains why we tend to postpone things we actually want to do. ✔ Regret often comes from overcommitting to future plans. ✔ Life is always busy, and the “right” time doesn’t exist. ✔ Experiences and connections are more valuable than work. ✔ Small steps toward your goals create momentum. ✔ Reflect on what truly matters to you. ✔ Postponing can lead to missed opportunities and regrets. ✔ Engaging in activities you love is essential for happiness. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

What if the story you've been told about creativity isn't true? Many of us have been conditioned to believe we’re not creative, that creativity belongs only to artists, designers, or "gifted" people. But what if creativity is actually within all of us? Just waiting to be unlocked? Creativity expert, Dr. Amy Climer, joins me to challenge the limiting beliefs that hold so many of us back. Creativity isn’t just about art…It’s about problem-solving, innovation, and making an impact in our work and lives overall. Amy shares her definition of creativity as "novelty that is valuable" and breaks down why organizations must embrace creativity to thrive. We explore the intersection of creativity, structure, and innovation, even in highly regulated industries like healthcare and finance. Amy also shares how to foster creativity within teams, how conflict (when managed well) can spark innovation, and practical ways to overcome self-judgment. If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’m just not creative,” this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Creativity is often limited by societal conditioning. Many people believe they lack creativity due to past experiences. Creativity is defined as “novelty that is valuable.” Being creative requires practice and understanding of the creative process. Organizations that innovate are more likely to thrive. Team dynamics play a crucial role in fostering creativity. Conflict can be beneficial if managed properly in teams. A strong team purpose enhances creative collaboration. Leaders must recognize that creativity comes from all team members. Deliberate approaches to creativity can lead to better outcomes, and clear process improves team behavior and collaboration. Brainstorming sessions often lack necessary structure, and creativity thrives within certain limitations and structure. Even regulated environments can benefit from creative thinking. Creativity can manifest in various professional roles. Individuals can unlock creativity through practical exercises. Self-judgment hinders creative idea generation. Climer Cards, a creativity and teambuilding tool designed by Amy, can facilitate engaging team discussions. About Amy Climer: Dr. Amy Climer is a speaker, trainer, and coach who teaches teams how to innovate on demand. She is the author of Deliberate Creative Teams: How to Lead for Innovative Results written to help leaders understand how to increase creativity in their teams. She hosts The Deliberate Creative™ podcast, and she is the designer of Climer Cards, a creativity and teambuilding tool. Amy has a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change. Follow Amy, and find her resources here! Amy's Website: ClimerConsulting.com Deliberate Creative Teams Book Website Amazon Climer Cards: com Amy Climer on Facebook (@climerconsulting) Amy Climer on LinkedIn (in/amyclimer) Amy Climer on Instagram (@amyclimer) Amy Climer on BlueSky (@amyclimer.bsky.social) Amy Climer on X/Twitter(@amyclimer) Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Every day comes with its surprises, reflections, and lessons, and my 50th birthday came with even more than expected. In this episode, I share the story of my incredible surprise birthday celebration, a shocking revelation about the Golden Girls everyone needs to know, and why I still feel somewhere between the ages of 25 and 40 in my head. We’ll also dive into why time seems to move faster as we age and, more importantly, how to slow it down. Key Takeaways The Science of Time Perception: Why the years feel shorter as you age and how new experiences can help you hold onto time more intentionally. Feeling Younger Than Your Age: The mental disconnect between your physical age and how old you feel. How to Slow It Down: Seek out new experiences to create more memorable moments. Let go of the belief that you’re "too old" to try something new. Take small, intentional steps toward the life you truly want…now rather than someday. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, I share my unforgettable experience climbing to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, 10,000 feet above the Paro Valley in Bhutan. An experience filled with uncertainty, curiosity, and some surprising life lessons. From mule riding to navigating self-doubt and discomfort, this adventure revealed powerful insights about what holds us back and how to move forward. The 6 key takeaways we’ll explore… We want a full map before we start. Sometimes, we hold ourselves back waiting for clarity or certainty. The truth? We only need to see the next step. Regret is scarier than discomfort. Temporary discomfort or the lasting weight of wondering, “What if?” Motivation looks different for everyone. How our “why” shapes our choices. Comparison is unhelpful. Your journey doesn’t need to match someone else’s. What matters is what motivates you. Doing it or not doing it shouldn’t be dependent upon someone else. Ensure your decisions are aligned with your own values and priorities rather than someone else’s opinion or limitations. Support matters. Whether it’s guides, mules, or fellow travelers along the way, having support makes a world of difference. Along the way, I’ll dive into… What made it impossible for me to not attempt the climb. The mental hurdles we face when the path ahead isn’t clear. What kept me going, even when I couldn’t see the bridge or the stairs. How potential regret often weighs more heavily than temporary discomfort. How to honor your own unique motivation and let go of comparison. The importance of support and how it can transform daunting challenges into achievable ones. What’s that one thing you’re putting off because it feels uncertain, uncomfortable, or just plain hard? What’s your Tiger’s Nest? What if you don’t climb it? Let’s explore what’s holding you back and how you can start your climb today! My conversation with Eric Recker regarding his Snowbasin climb… Episode 29 of The DASH Mindset Podcast More about the incredible Derek / Wandering Earl… Wandering Earl on Facebook WanderingEarl.com Wandering Earl Tours Hear my conversation with Derek in episodes 4 & 5 of The DASH Mindset Podcast! More about our incredible travel guides… Mithu Raihan Follow each of them to learn more! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

I’m joined by my friend Sue Barber for a fun and insightful conversation sparked by Sue’s Ideation strength, my recent “surprise” trip, and Episode 35 of the podcast. Sue and I dive into the differences and similarities between us, from our approaches to planning and spontaneity to how our strengths, values, and experiences shape our perspectives. Join us to hear about… Our shared strengths and values and where we differ. The role of strengths and values in shaping our decisions and approaches to travel and life overall. Sue’s two-minute cab ride across the piazza in Milan. How we balance preparation with flexibility in our personal and professional lives. The impact of other people’s fears and reactions on our personal growth. How to recognize and overcome limiting beliefs that hold us back. Why others feel uneasy when we transform and grow in unexpected ways. Why it’s okay to become a different version of yourself through new experiences, even if others struggle to understand it. Viewing life through the lens of curiosity and experimentation. About Sue: As a former Fortune 500 IT Director turned Executive Coach, Author & Podcast Host, Sue experienced her own challenges throughout her 25+ years in the corporate environment at Kraft Heinz. Now, Sue helps business leaders play bigger, increase their visibility & shine a light on their leadership strengths so they can elevate their position in the workplace. As a leader who was somewhat invisible for a long time, she took a journey to learn how to be visible in her own authentic way. Her mission is to share what she learned with others & leverage her platform to create a visibility movement for leaders to show their value & be seen for their true talent. Listen to Episode 14 of The DASH Mindset Podcast to learn more about Sue and her book! Find videos & resources on Sue’s website, & follow her on LinkedIn. Buy her book, The Visibility Factor, wherever books are sold, & listen to The Visibility Factor Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

In this special episode, I’m joined by my beautiful friend Mary McCarthy, founder of Resilience & Grace. Mary has a unique presence that instantly creates a sense of calm…something I desperately need, especially during this chaotic time of year! If the holidays tend to feel overwhelming, this episode is for you. Mary shares her journey of discovering yoga over 20 years ago and how it transformed her life. She offers insights into the power of breath and even walks us through a simple and effective breathing exercise. You’ll learn how to breathe the right way, something you may not have realized could be done the wrong way because you’ve made it this far! Mary’s wisdom and grounded energy are exactly what we all need to bring a little more peace into our lives. Take a deep breath, press play, and join us in cultivating a sense of calm this holiday season. You won’t want to miss this grounding conversation! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Mary’s inspiring story of discovering yoga and its life-changing impact. Why proper breathing is essential (and how most of us are doing it wrong). A step-by-step guided breathing exercise to bring calm into your day. Practical tips for finding calm amidst the holiday chaos. About Mary & How You Can Bring More Calm Into Your World: Mary is a leader in the wellness industry and has been a yoga and meditation teacher for over 20 years, offering a unique integration of ancient yogic wisdom merged with evidence-based western science. Her teachings embody holistic practices that guide students on a path of self-discovery and healthy aging, supporting each person’s physical, mental, and spiritual journey. Her insights, integrative practices, and intuitive teachings offer an invitation to practice from a place of meaning and purpose, inner guidance and authenticity, gratitude and joy. Mary shares from her heart and invites you into the journey to your best life, connecting with your true Self. To learn more about Mary and to bring more calm into your world, visit her Resilience & Grace website, and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Have you ever considered taking a surprise trip? My husband and I just returned from one! In this episode, I share the story of our unexpected journey to Bangladesh and Bhutan and reflect on how our vacation planning and travel choices help reveal our values and strengths. How do you choose your vacation destinations? How do you approach vacation planning? What’s most important to you and why? How does your approach apply to your decision-making and life overall? Tune in to hear… What a surprise trip is! Highlights and surprises from our trip. About our incredible leader (Wandering Earl) and travel guides along the way…Check out their details below! Insights about my own strengths and values and how to recognize and apply your own. Considerations regarding how your values align and DON’T align with others’ and how to understand and even appreciate differences. Considerations…Are you taking the vacations you want to take? Or postponing and taking the ones you think you should in the meantime? More about the incredible Derek / Wandering Earl… Wandering Earl on Facebook WanderingEarl.com Wandering Earl Tours Hear my conversation with Derek in episodes 4 & 5 of The DASH Mindset Podcast! More about our incredible travel guides… Bangladesh Guides Mithu Raihan Bhutan Guides Chozin Ratu Follow each of them to learn more! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

“If you don't know what your options are…If you don't have the information to make a choice, you can't make a good choice.” One of my favorite statements from my friend and podcast guest, Tammy Watkins. In this episode, Tammy and I dive into women’s health with a focus on hormonal shifts, the power of education, and proactive health choices. As a chiropractor and women's health advocate, Tammy shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting the importance of understanding one's body during midlife transitions. We discuss the impact of stress on hormone levels, the need to recognize that "common" does not mean "normal" for many health issues, and how proactive choices can empower women through these changes. Tammy emphasizes the need for women to take control of their health through informed decisions and self-care, which can lead to a smoother, more confident journey through midlife. Key Takeaways: Knowing your health options is essential for informed decision-making. Midlife can feel overwhelming, often leaving women feeling isolated. Education is crucial to empowering women to understand their bodies. Hormonal changes are a natural part of aging, not a sign of decline. Managing stress is critical for maintaining hormonal balance. Awareness of hormonal cycles aids in health and well-being. Common health issues should not be accepted as inevitable. Men also undergo hormonal changes that deserve attention. Estrogen is vital for vitality and overall health. High cortisol from chronic stress can lead to health challenges. Stillness and self-care are essential for healing and personal growth. Traditional medicine may lack time for a holistic health approach. Listening to your body can help prevent serious health issues. Community support is valuable for women in midlife. Intentional self-care and connection can help navigate post-menopause. There is hope for a fulfilling life after menopause. About Tammy Watkins: As a midlife wife, homeschooling mother of four, and prenatal/pediatric chiropractor with a dedication to women's health, Tammy has experienced the natural hormonal shifts that come after years of birthing, nursing, and nurturing children. She knew that her 40’s were going to be different, but she had no idea how dramatically her body would respond to the hormone variations and stressors of the environment around her. With almost two decades of empowering women through pregnancy and childbirth, she now aims to guide women through the perimenopause phase and beyond. Understanding the importance of simple and effective habits, she is committed to helping women navigate this perimenopause-menopause / (peri)menopause season with confidence and well-being. What Tammy Offers: Are you wanting to understand how your hormone cycles work and what that cyclical pattern means for optimizing your movement, productivity, nutrition and beyond? Tammy helps women address issues like weight gain, mood swings, and sleepless nights by exploring holistic approaches to balancing hormones. Through simple daily habits, she supports women in reclaiming energy, mood, and well-being naturally, helping them feel more like themselves. To learn more about Tammy and her offerings, visit The Well website, and follow her on Facebook! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Are you incorporating joy into your life? If you aren’t, why not? If you are, are you being intentional about it? Are you incorporating enough? My friend, Lisa Even, shares ideas on how to intentionally incorporate more! Lisa is a speaker, best-selling author, and JOY Connoisseur. Her podcast, "Have Good Ripple Effect," and her book, "Joy is My Job," embody her entire approach to life. Lisa challenges organizations and individuals to look beyond their backyards and realize they happen to the world, not the other way around. From her humble beginnings waitressing at the R&R Café in small town Iowa (serving coffee and breakfast to locals, farmers, and truckers) to leadership roles in corporate America and raising a family, Lisa understands the pressures of designing a life (work and play) that is impactful yet enjoyable. Her authentic connection, contagious energy, and wealth of real-life experiences captivate audiences, inspiring them to create meaningful ripple effects. Lisa has addressed diverse audiences, from corporate giants like Disney and ESPN to universities, associations, and over 30 industries, consistently delivering content and insights that resonate deeply. And I’m thrilled to have her here, too! In this episode, Lisa & I discuss: Her journey from healthcare leader to JOY Connoisseur Joy postponement…I’ll have time for joy when… Happy to crappy…It’s your choice. Sock parties, camping in the living room, mini dates, and pre-vacation staycations Perspective shifting and the possibility of being two things at once Her book, Joy Is My Job Strategies for adding joy to your life without creating another list More about Lisa: Follow her on: Her website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Listen to her podcast, Have Good Ripple Effect Order her book, Joy Is My Job Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Wrapping up our focus on strengths and diving into the fourth type, Thinking strengths, the strengths that explain how someone views the world.  Individuals who have two or more are often considered quietly effective and tend to prefer mental work, a preference that can be wildly confusing to someone without such strengths. Are you quietly effective? Does it seem your efforts are underappreciated? Perhaps unnoticed? This may be why. Do you question why other people require a level of detail that seems unnecessary from your perspective? Do you work with people who seem all over the place? And the guidance and expectations they provide change daily? Anyone who seems stuck in the details from the past? Does it seem they’re deliberately making your life miserable? They likely aren’t and simply have Thinking strengths you don’t instead. This episode will help you understand yourself and others even more. Why you operate the way you do and why others don’t. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

I strongly believe everyone has value, and my friend, Gina Brown, believes it, too. In this episode, Gina shares her story of being diagnosed with ADHD in 2020 and the positive impact her diagnosis has had in her life and business. After her 20-something career in the corporate world, Gina started MAGNIFY Innovation & Leadership to increase her impact on the employee experience. Through her roles in leadership and innovation, she realized how pivotal leaders are to creating an environment where innovation thrives. Taking a step deeper, she is now coaching and consulting on the topics of leadership and innovation through the lens of neurodiversity. Through her own experiences of having ADHD, she coaches leaders by building awareness of the nuances of neurodiversity through the trifecta of mindset, skillset, and toolset to create an environment where people thrive. When leaders and companies harness the power of the neurodivergent mind, wonderful things happen, and research proves it. In this episode, Gina & I discuss: What led to her ADHD diagnosis Her challenges with understanding her own needs and her desire to help others understand theirs The problem with methods, not potential Her pre-diagnosis coping mechanisms and beliefs Strength building vs flaw fixing What ADHD is really is How she helps companies harness the strengths of people with neurodiversity Contact Gina at [email protected], and learn more about working with her at LinkedIn and on her website at www.magnifyinnovationgroup.com. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

We’re continuing down the CliftonStrengths path and diving deeper into the third type of strengths, Influencing strengths…the strengths that explain how people move others to action. I share examples of the Influencing strengths I have, as well as the ones I absolutely do not, including Competition. If this is a strength of yours, and if you care about winning even a little, I’m the last one you’ll ever want to play Monopoly, basketball, or pretty much anything with because I don’t. Have you ever felt less than enthused about a particular project? Because you felt the outcome could never be more than mediocre? You might have one of the Influencing strengths I do have. Listen to see. This episode will help you understand yourself and others even more. Why you operate the way you do and why others don’t. Want to learn more? Learn more about Gallup & CliftonStrengths here. Head to The DASH Mindset.com to learn more about how we can work together, and find me on LinkedIn! Who do you know who could benefit from this episode? Please share with a friend! And if YOU benefitted, please subscribe, & rate it wherever you listen to podcasts! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

How often do you accomplish something, then immediately wonder, “Now what?” It’s a common occurrence for my friend, Eric Recker. And in this episode he shares the importance of asking ourselves why we’re doing it in the first place. Eric first joined us in Episode 26, where we talked about burnout, perfectionism, and the importance of selflessness. In this episode, Eric talks about his most recent challenge, climbing Snowbasin 13 times in 36 hours. Totaling 29,029 feet, it’s the equivalent of climbing Mt. Everest. Eric is a dentist, success coach, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator on performance & burnout, two-time author, recovering triathlete (who’s really just doing other crazy stuff instead), husband, and dad. Eric’s life took an unexpected turn when he was faced with a near-death experience due to a rare medical condition, a sobering moment that forced him to confront his priorities & reassess his approach to life. Now, he strives to support individuals & teams in achieving their goals while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In this episode, Eric & I discuss: The climb…Climbing Snowbasin 13 times in 36 hours (and paying to do it) Loosening his grip on the outcomes The importance of community and not climbing alone Community vs competition The importance of knowing why he was climbing the mountain Enjoying the journey, not just reaching the destination, and the importance of celebrating along the way Chasing happiness His constant support from his wife, Amy How one person’s version of fun may be another’s suffering The inspiration for his book, The Dam Analogy The importance of being honest with ourselves to prevent burnout Learn more about this year’s 29,029 Snowbasin challenge here. Follow Eric & learn more about how he can help you on LinkedIn & on his website. Click here to learn more about & order his most recent book, That Dam Analogy. Click here to learn more about & order his first book, The False Sense of Urgency and How to #WINtheNOW. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Are you a “get sh*t done” kind of person who has a hard time understanding people who aren’t? Or do you feel surrounded by those people, & they annoy the sh*t out of you because they have unrealistic expectations and don’t understand why you don’t operate the same way? In this episode I dig deeper into Executing strengths…the strengths I affectionately refer to as “get sh*t done” strengths. You’re unlikely to find that on Gallup’s site…That’s all me. Regardless of what your top five strengths are, you’re either annoyed by or annoying to someone. Understanding why makes life easier, & I’m here to help. Find me on Facebook & LinkedIn, & learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website, and learn more about Gallup & CliftonStrengths here. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

How are strengths similar to coffee mugs? I share how in this episode as we dig deeper into CliftonStrengths, the assessment developed when this question was asked… “What if we studied what was right with people versus what was wrong with people?” Plus I dig into each of the Relating strengths, the strengths my clients most often wish they didn’t have…But should & eventually do appreciate. In this episode, I share why. Learn more about Gallup & CliftonStrengths here. Helpful tools exist. It’s just a matter of finding & utilizing them, & I can help. Find me on Facebook & LinkedIn, & learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Have you ever experienced burnout? If yes, you’ll appreciate this episode. If no, you’ll appreciate this episode. You may be in the midst of it & be too burned out to know, & if you’re not, it may help you avoid it. Listen in for a relatable discussion with my friend, the inspirational Eric Recker, dentist, success coach, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator on performance & burnout, two-time author, & recovering triathlete. Oh, & he’s a husband & dad, too. Eric’s life took an unexpected turn when he was faced with a near-death experience due to a rare medical condition, a sobering moment that forced him to confront his priorities & reassess his approach to life. Through it, he gleaned the invaluable lesson of embracing the present moment & cherishing meaningful connections over fleeting achievements. Now, he shares his experiences & insights & strives to support individuals & teams in achieving their goals while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In this episode, Eric & I discuss: Going through burnout rather than around it His identity as a dentist & others’ perspectives on being anything other than that Sleeping challenges, chest pains, heart palpitations, & panic attacks Doing more & working harder The build-up of burnout Third grade punks, kickball, & life-long perfectionism The ongoing challenge of doing less The selflessness of taking care of ourselves The finite inflow & outflow of dams & humans Expecting more of ourselves than others The importance of gauging our tank & ensuring we have something in it Daily self-awareness & line dancing Follow Eric & learn more about how he can help you on LinkedIn & on his website. Click here to learn more about & order his most recent book, That Dam Analogy. Click here to learn more about & order his first book, The False Sense of Urgency and How to #WINtheNOW. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, I dig into a framework that helps people live & work with more intention. A framework that reduces misunderstandings by helping people better understand themselves & one another & helps focus on the good stuff instead. Join me to learn more about the YouMap® framework & one of its four pillars, Strengths. If you’ve been on the path to self-discovery since your first “find your soulmate” quiz in Teen Beat, you’ll appreciate this episode. Even more sophisticated than Teen Beat & based on extensive research by Kristen A. Sherry, international bestselling author, globally recognized expert in the field of personal development, & Creator of YouMap®. YouMap® was honored with a Career Innovator Award by Career Directors International in 2020, & its use has continued to positively & significantly impact lives since. Hear my conversation with Kristin in Episode 2 of The DASH Mindset Podcast here. Learn more about Gallup & CliftonStrengths here. To learn more about Steve Fredlund & his inspiration to do the unright thing…such as including my janky intro recorded from my car…Listen to our conversation in Episode 24 of the podcast here, & buy his book, Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser here. Helpful tools exist. It’s just a matter of finding & utilizing them, & I can help. Find me on Facebook & LinkedIn, & learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

A truly fun & relatable discussion between a recovering accountant & a recovering actuary, my new lifelong friend, Steve Fredlund…AKA The Safari Dude. Steve & I discuss his journey from incredibly successful, yet unfulfilled actuary, to multi-passionate visionary, keynote speaker, best-selling author, & leader of African safaris. For ten years, Steve’s journey included two parallel paths: a good life that was becoming increasingly unfulfilling, and humanitarian trips to east Africa that ended on safari. Like chocolate and peanut butter, Steve’s research into happiness and his experiences leading African adventures blended into something remarkable. He discovered the “Big 5” factors that impact both, becoming the foundation of his approach to life, work, & leadership. “The Safari Way” has become a movement increasing the happiness & success of people around the world. Additionally, Steve is the best-selling author of the hysterical & incredibly relatable book, Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser…which I encourage you to buy immediately right here. In this episode, Steve & I discuss: His history of doing the “right” thing as defined by others His realization that he was living someone else’s life, & his journey of figuring out who he really was & what he wanted to do in this world His “throwing up in his trombone” moment & request to be homeschooled The awkward moments that cause us to question our adequacy as humans The TEDx fail that ultimately led to two successful TEDx presentations & his keynote speaking career The processing speed of actuaries & accountants relative to others Permission to speak The exhaustion of trying to “fit in” where we don’t truly belong His invitation to start seeing our day-to-day experiences as part of our epic, safari-like adventure The importance of having the right peeps in your jeep Doing the “unright” thing, even as a people pleaser My new offer…being in the front row at speaking gigs Learn more about Steve’s best-selling book, Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser, & buy it here! Follow Steve & learn more about how he can help you on LinkedIn & on his website…seriously. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Ever wonder why you can’t just do what you’re “supposed” to do like other people? Why you can’t just eat the celery, stop binge watching Netflix, start work on time, stay with the exercise plan, meet your deadlines, or simply just get something done? Whatever it is for you…Maybe you’ve questioned why you can’t just be more disciplined or more focused…Why you’re incapable of being more consistent…Why you can’t just do the thing. There are several factors. And the one we’re covering in this episode is the number of executing strengths you do or don’t have. You’re not incapable. It’s just more natural for some people than others, especially for people with more executing strengths. It doesn’t mean you can’t “do the thing”; it just takes more intentionality. It takes leaning into the strengths you DO have. It means giving yourself grace & releasing the things that are less natural to you. Stop beating yourself up & focus on what you can more easily do instead. And if you’re someone who doesn’t understand why OTHER people can’t just “do the thing”, stop beating THEM up, too, & listen in.  Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

Frustrated that you can’t control everyone & everything? Because you’re human? We all struggle with control at times. More specifically, we struggle to identify when we do and don't have it. We all know our control is limited, but when we’re stuck in negative emotions, it’s hard to see. When we're in a state of overwhelm, frustration, burnout, disappointment, or anger, all rationale goes out the window. So I’m sharing the concept of the sphere of control, a tool to help you recognize what you can actually control, what you can influence, & what you can neither directly control nor influence. Stop draining your energy & mental space by focusing on the wrong things. Focus on the things you can actually impact instead. It starts with recognizing what they are. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

I used to be tongue tied…literally…& now I’m not. I share all about it in today’s episode, & I share how it relates to your world… In this episode: Pay attention when you think, ”Could that work?” Stay open to ideas & to trying different things. There’s no one person or one thing that can solve all your problems or even one problem. When someone acts like you might be a little crazy, keep going. Decide what’s right for YOU. Everything is connected whether you realize it or not, & when something goes unaddressed, you compensate in other ways. Whatever happens, it happens at just the right time. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

We all get stuck in negative emotions from time to time, & getting unstuck can be a challenge…often causing us to spiral even deeper into negativity. It’s exhausting, isn’t it? So in this episode I share a simple technique for shifting to a more positive mindset instead, the Three-Gifts Technique. It’s simple, yet it’s not always easy…even when you can be annoyingly positive a lot of the time. I share some examples of how I recently used the technique, & I share some examples from the book Positive Intelligence: Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential and How You Can Achieve Yours, too. If you’ve ever felt stuck in overwhelm, frustration, anger, disappointment, or any negative emotion of any kind…Basically, if you’re human...Listen in.  And walk away with some practical & actionable steps to combat negativity, even when it feels like you can’t. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, my friend, Wendi Fredregill, & I discuss the ups & downs of life…including her journey from dietician to psychologist to teacher to hair stylist to mindset coach, marketing expert, & all of the above. On her journey as a mindset coach, leader, & curator of joy, Wendi is passionately dedicated to assisting female entrepreneurs in overcoming perfectionism, procrastination, & fear. Her robust faith, coupled with an abundance of idea-generating energy, empowers those in her sphere to cultivate more joy in their lives. Serving as the CEO of Sasstastic Life, LLC, Wendi functions as a mindset coach & co-hosts the YouTube show & Podcast, "Your Sasstastic Life," alongside Tricia Rivas. She serves as the marketing director of Apexx Creative, assisting her husband in sharing his gifts with the world. They have 3 daughters & a giant Leonberger named Aslan. (Find Aslan’s bio here…Oh, & Wendi’s & her husband’s, too.) With a profound love for strong coffee, the ocean, & all things related to personal growth, Wendi finds joy in spending time with her family & friends, engaging in activities like kayaking, & immersing herself in music. In this episode, Wendi & I discuss: GenX’ing & doing it anyway Social media, dopamine hits, & unplugging from the matrix Turning 50 Expecting the answers to come to us (when they're inside us instead) Joy without shooting rainbows & butterflies The exhaustion of wanting something for others more than they do Your Sasstastic Life with Tricia Rivas Life pivots & listening to our gut & brain Pitch Perfect & weight challenges Running from ourselves & kicking our own asses Tears as truth serum & crying in the Canary Islands Entrepreneurship & Apexx Creative with her husband, Jason Purple, light-up roller skates Her amazing, almost 50, Whitesnake video on a minivan…See it here. Follow Wendi, Your Sasstastic Life & Apexx Creative at all the places… Your Sasstastic Life on Instagram Apexx Creative on Instagram Wendi Fredregill & Apexx Creative on LinkedIn Your Sasstastic Life on YouTube YourSasstasticLife.com Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

As good as it is, Get Out of My Dreams, Get Into My Car is unlikely a song Billy Ocean would release today. Things change…The environment, our thoughts & our thought patterns or beliefs…They all change. So it’s important to revisit them for a few reasons I share in this episode. Revisit the beliefs that determine your actions & results, & start now. Now is when the rest of your life starts…Not next month or next year. So why wait until that perfect day that doesn’t actually exist? Today is as perfect as it gets. 😉 Have you struggled to meet your new year’s resolutions, & have you potentially beaten yourself up as a result? Get out of your own way, & consider the thoughts that act as barriers between you & your goals instead. Most of your beliefs aren’t even your own. Which ones do you truly own & why? You’re constantly evolving, & the world is, too. How can you operate based on your true beliefs & prioritize based on your values? How can you do so in today’s environment? Revisit your beliefs now, & join my next PQ Program, a habit-building mental fitness program to enable wellness, performance, & positive relationships! See details & register here. The book I mentioned, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel H. Pink, can be found here or really anywhere. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

I share my definition of freedom & even share an image for you that I promise you won’t forget…even if you want to. What’s your version of freedom? How would you answer the question, “What do I truly want?” What might be draining you? Consider your feelings & what might be incongruent with who you are & what you truly want. Consider some of the limiting beliefs you’ve inherited that aren’t even your own. Consider what releasing some of those limiting beliefs would feel like & what freedom could look like instead. Take a step toward freedom by joining me in my next PQ Program, a habit-building mental fitness program to enable wellness, performance, & positive relationships! See details & register at The DASH Mindset website. Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

If you want to make this year and the rest of your life even better from a personal & professional standpoint, reach out & let’s chat! Connect with me at The DASH Mindset, & let’s see if we’re a good fit! Thank you for listening to The DASH Mindset Podcast! If you liked the podcast, please subscribe and rate it wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people live more authentically in their lives, too. Learn more at The DASH Mindset website, & download your free PDF to begin unlocking your true potential & the life you want, or find me on Facebook & LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!