The Soul of Connection podcast artwork

PODCAST · education

The Soul of Connection

You can be smart, successful, and completely wrecking the relationships that matter most — and not even see it. I'm Tressa Yonekawa. Two degrees in the neuroscience of connection, thirty years proving this stuff actually changes people. Welcome to The Soul of Connection. Let's get into it.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Sep 19, 2026 · Source feed

  1. 16

    Why AI Changes Everything | Episode #23 With Brian Hong

    How is AI rewriting the rules of business, creativity, and daily life?In this episode of The Soul of Connection, serial entrepreneur Brian Hong breaks down why the AI revolution mirrors the early days of the internet—and why this is the worst the technology will ever be. From building custom AI agent workforces to the reality of the shifting job market, discover how to position yourself ahead of the curve and leverage automation for ultimate freedom. Watch the full episode to learn how to transition from a keyboard worker to a systems architect.

  2. 15

    The Power Of Contrarian Thinking | Episode # 22 with Mark Young

    In this episode, Tressa sits down with Mark Young—a true "weird animal" in the best way possible. With a unique background in functional medicine, clinical psychology, and high-level marketing, Mark breaks down why the most successful leaders don’t focus on where the "puck" is—they focus on where it’s going. Stop settling for downstream fixes that never address the root cause of your business or personal challenges. Mark shares his contrarian approach to breaking through the noise, managing expectations in both business and life, and why it is time to stop hiring for skills and start hiring for adaptability. Ready to get dangerous and rethink your entire strategy?  Mentioned in this episode: -Mark’s Books: The E-commerce Brand Guide Series -Personal Website: TheMarkYoung.com Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into business psychology and leadership strategy!#contrarianthinking #businessstrategy #growthmindset #entrepreneurlife #thesoulofconnection

  3. 14

    Healing Through Sound And Frequencies | Episode #21 with Josh Hailey

    Can a massage table lined with subwoofers actually "jiggle" your nervous system back into balance?In this episode, Tressa sits down with Josh Hailey, a vibroacoustic massage therapist, to explore the science and magic of low-frequency sound healing. They discuss how continuous 40 to 60Hz frequencies interact with the water in our bodies to induce sacred geometries, reset deep-seated stress, and act as an antidote to modern corporate burnout. Beyond the table, we dive into the power of breathwork, the clarity that comes with a year of sobriety, and how to reclaim your human rhythm in a hyper-connected, digital world.Links & Resources:* Website: soundhandmassage.com* Instagram: @soundhandmassageIf this episode resonated with you, don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more deep dives into mindfulness and human connection!#thesoulofconnection #soundhealing #vibroacoustics #nervoussystemreset

  4. 13

    People Buy You, Not Business | Episode #20 with Armando Leduc

    We are living in a trust recession. With low-hanging AI tools flooding the market, anyone can push out content—but you can't automate real human connection. In this episode, Armando Leduc drops by to break down why hiding behind your business entity is a losing strategy. He shares how he blends the core rules of improv into business to build massive ROI through collaboration, edification, and showing up as your raw, authentic self. Stop pitching your services and start showing the human behind the brand. Dive into the full episode now! #thesoulofconnection #armandoleduc #personalbranding #trustrecession

  5. 12

    From Million-Dollar Days to $182 That Meant More | Episode #19 with Donna Fox

    What happens when a highly successful CMO decides that the career she mastered is no longer the life she wants? On this episode of The Soul Of Connection, Tressa Yonekawa sits down with Las Vegas artist and former corporate marketing leader Donna Fox to explore reinvention, creativity, mindset, aphantasia, authenticity, and the courage to redefine success on your own terms.Connect with Donna FoxInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnafox/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-fox-aa79415/Website: https://www.donnafoxart.com/

  6. 11

    Self Regulation and Better Parenting | Episode #18 with Shauna Leduc

    Can changing your own internal ecosystem transform your relationship with your child?In this episode, Tressa sits down with multi-talented actor, musician, and mom Shauna Rappold Leduc to explore the messy, beautiful reality of balancing a high-powered creative life with conscious parenting.Shauna opens up about her journey from explosive family dynamics to finding true calm, sharing how mastering emotional self-regulation completely reshaped how she communicates with her seven-year-old daughter.If you are trying to juggle a chaotic schedule, set firm boundaries, or teach your kids how to stand up for themselves by modeling it first, this conversation is your roadmap."You never know what somebody else is going through. So be kind." — Shauna.Listen now on your favorite platform and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! #soulofconnection#consciousparenting

  7. 10

    What If Your Success Isn’t Making You Happy? | Episode #17 with Shawanna Vester

    Join Tressa Yonekawa on The Soul Of Connection for a powerful conversation with corporate leader, consultant, coach, and emerging podcast host Shawanna Vester. Shawanna shares candid insights on boundaries, overgiving, confidence, finding your voice, escaping survival mode, redefining success, and creating a legacy that reflects who you truly are.Connect with Shawanna VesterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawanna-vester-332aa19a/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawannacreates/reels/

  8. 9

    Dance and Human Connection | Podcast #16 with Shane Leqcoq

    What happens when you step onto the dance floor and completely let go?  In this episode, professional dancer and choreographer Shane LeCocq breaks down the profound magic of partner dancing. It’s an art form built on communication, rigid professional boundaries, and deep, unforgettable human connection: something no screen or AI can ever truly replicate.   Shane shares what it really means to experience "flight" on the floor, how to navigate the intense intimacy of the craft, and why the chase for that perfect, smooth ride keeps dancers coming back forever.  If you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t dance, or if you're chasing a deeper level of focus and connection in your own life, this conversation is for you.   CONNECT WITH SHANE Website: ShallWeDanceStudios.com   Instagram/Facebook: @DivineDriver  #ballroomdance #humanconnection #shaneleacock #choreography #soulofconnection

  9. 8

    Why Making More Money Won’t Fix Everything | Episode #15 with Michelle Jacobik

    Michelle Jacobik, entrepreneur, author, financial strategist, and creator of The Path to Profits, joins Tressa Yonekawa on The Soul Of Connection for a powerful conversation about money, identity, prosperity, and building a successful life without sacrificing what matters most. Michelle shares how changing the stories we carry about money can transform the way we earn, spend, build businesses, and ultimately create a life aligned with our values.Connect with Michelle JacobikFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kalinjacobik/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellejacobikLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejacobik/Website: https://michellejacobik.com/

  10. 7

    Your Best Creative Asset | Podcast #14 with Kyle Gray

    Stop outworking your problems and start owning your story. In this episode, storytelling expert Kyle Gray breaks down why most high-achievers hit a wall where effort is no longer enough. If you’ve been "over-gripping" your business and undervaluing who you are, it’s time to pivot.   Inside the episode: -The High-Achiever Trap: Why we value what we "do" over who we "are".   -The $130k Story: How one client turned a vulnerable moment into massive revenue.  -Superpower Shifts: Transforming your "curses" into your greatest business advantages.  -Human Edge vs. AI: Why your human truth is the ultimate asset in an automated world.   Learn how to stop performing and start connecting through the power of strategic storytelling.  Watch now to unlock your most valuable creative asset. Connect with Kyle:  thestoryengine.co  @heykylegray#creativestrategy #highachieverburnout #authenticstorytelling #personalbrandidentity #thesoulofconnection

  11. 6

    Why You Keep Repeating the Same Emotional Patterns | Episode #13 with Katy Collins

    Katy Collins, a licensed therapist and trauma-informed practitioner based in Houston, Texas, joins Tressa Yonekawa on The Soul Of Connection for a powerful conversation about emotional triggers, childhood patterns, authenticity, communication, and the courage to sit with uncomfortable feelings. Katy shares insights from her therapeutic work, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and explores how learning to listen, repair conflict, and release people-pleasing patterns can create deeper connection with ourselves and others.Connect with Katy CollinsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/Website: https://sagehealinghouston.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katycollins.LCSW/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sagehealinghouston/

  12. 5

    Why Success Still Feels Empty | Episode #12 with Jerry Kezhaya & Dr. Laura Shwaluk

    Jerry Kezhaya and Dr. Laura Shwaluk join Tressa Yonekawa on The Soul Of Connection for a powerful conversation about the hidden stories, childhood patterns, relationships, and inner wounds that can influence our success and happiness. Drawing from decades of business experience and their own inner-healing journey, Jerry and Dr. Laura explore why having money and success isn't always enough—and what it can take to create deeper connection, purpose, and fulfillment.Connect with Jerry Kezhaya and Dr. Laura ShwalukLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-kezhaya/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-shwaluk/Website: sensinglife.us and bbmusa.com

  13. 4

    The Antidote To Lost Intimacy | Podcast #11 with Anna Cabeca

    Why do so many relationships shift from "lovers" to "roommates"?  In this episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca reveals the physiological and emotional tools needed to reignite your spark and reclaim your connection.    We explore the Three Ds that kill intimacy: Desire, Disconnect, and Discomfort, and the powerful Three Ps that fix it: Presence, Playfulness, and Pleasure. Dr. Anna explains how your "Mirror Neurons" communicate your true feelings to your partner without a single word being spoken.    In this episode, you’ll learn: -Why "you can't heal a body you hate" and how self-relationship transforms your health.    -The "Queen Mother" of hormones: How Oxytocin drives connection and longevity.    -Why emotional safety is the mandatory foundation for physical desire.    -How to "microdose" playfulness throughout your day to reduce stress.    Stop surviving and start thriving. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 70s, it is never too late to experience a new dimension of intimacy.    Watch now to discover the science of staying connected.#intimacytools #relationshiphealth #drannacabeca #thethreeps #thesoulofconnection

  14. 3

    Why Success Can Destroy Your Relationships | Podcast #10 with Abizer Rasheed

    Abizer Rasheed, President at Abizer Rasheed Group and a relationship coach for executives and high-net-worth individuals, joins Tressa Yonekawa on The Soul Of Connection for a powerful conversation about success, self-worth, leadership, and relationships. Together, they explore why the mindset that makes us successful professionally can sometimes work against us personally—and how choosing love, care, compassion, and conscious connection can change the way we communicate and relate.Connect with Abizer Rasheed:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abizerrasheed/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abizerrasheedgroup/Website: https://abizerrasheed.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abizer.rasheed.1Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AbizerRasheed

  15. 2

    When Success Feels Empty | Episode #9 with JM Ryerson

    You’ve built the life you were "supposed" to want. You’re hitting the numbers, checking the boxes, and showing up every day—so why does it feel like something is missing? We’ve all seen the curated feeds and the "rise and grind" culture that tells us we need to be doing more to be successful. But what if the secret to true achievement isn't just about doing more, but about upgrading the person doing the work? In this episode, Tressa sits down with J.M. Ryerson to talk about why the most successful people are often the ones who have had to learn how to be present, vulnerable, and honest about when they aren't okay. We’re pulling back the curtain on: -The "pretty picture" trap and how to define success on your own terms. -How to stop reacting to the past and start living in the only time that matters: now. -The power of being human, not just human "doing". If you’ve ever felt like you have everything but still aren't happy, this conversation is for you. It’s time to stop faking it and start aligning with who you really are.#successmindset #personalgrowth #authenticleadership #letgowin #thesoulofconnection

  16. 1

    Reveals the Secrets to Lasting Intimacy | Episode #8 with Susan Bratton

    Susan Bratton is known as the Intimacy Expert to Millions. She is a bestselling author, speaker, and leading voice in relationship and intimacy education, with 44 bestselling books and over 1,000 media appearances.Susan helps individuals and couples deepen connection, reignite desire, and create lasting intimacy through practical, shame-free conversations about relationships, pleasure, and wellbeing.

  17. 0

    Fighting for Families: Law, Leadership, and Compassion | Episode #7 with Zara Zeringue

    Join us on The Soul of Connection Podcast for a powerful conversation with attorney and Zeringue & Associates founder Zara Zeringue. With decades of experience in family law, personal injury, and litigation, Zara brings both legal insight and a deeply human perspective to the work of helping people through some of life’s hardest moments. In this upcoming episode, she shares her experience, her leadership, and the heart behind her advocacy. Don’t miss this thoughtful and inspiring conversation with a voice who knows what it means to fight for families and justice.

  18. -1

    Create From A Healed Heart | Episode #6 with Justin Breen

    Most high-achievers are running on "business" energy, which literally translates to anxiety. We’ve been conditioned to prioritize logic and material gain, but as visionary connector Justin Breen reveals, those external wins won't fix an internal war. In this powerful episode of The Soul of Connection, we dive deep into why the most important work you will ever do isn’t in your company—it’s in your own heart. Inside this episode, you’ll discover: -Why "social hypnosis" is keeping you stuck in patterns of trauma and overthinking. -The science behind why the heart is more powerful than the brain. -How to stop projecting past pain onto your leadership, your family, and your relationships. -The secret to creating a legacy that is nourishing rather than draining. It’s time to stop overthinking and start creating from a healed heart. Watch the full episode now to begin your inner war for peace.#healyourheart #visionaryleadership #thesoulofconnection #innerwork

  19. -2

    Profit from Authentic Relationship | Episode #5 with Glen Ledwell

    What if the "secret sauce" to scaling a multi-million dollar business wasn't a complex algorithm, but a simple shift in human behavior?  In this episode, marketing powerhouse Glen Ledwell reveals how he transitioned from the 24/7 "nightclub grind" to building global empires by mastering one specific art: making people feel good.  Glen breaks down why he prioritizes "quality over quantity" in his inner circles and how being "choosy" about who you work with actually leads to greater longevity and revenue. If you’ve ever felt like your business was becoming impersonal or transactional, this conversation will help you reclaim the soul of your success.  Inside this episode: -Why "making people feel good" is a deliberate business strategy    -The power of curating high-level masterminds based on character, not just cash    -How to define success on your own terms—and your own timeline    Watch the full episode now to learn how to turn authentic connections into your greatest professional as#authenticnetworking #businessgrowth #relationshipmarketing #entrepreneurmindset #thesoulofconnection

  20. -3

    Writing Through Ego Death | Episode # 4 with Crystal Adair-Benning

    In this episode of The Soul of Connection, Crystal Adair-Benning, a four-time New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, peels back the curtain on what it really takes to tell a story that matters. Crystal shares why she forces her clients into a "bit of an ego death"—because you can't write a legacy if you're too busy trying to look "cool." From planning luxury celebrity weddings to surviving terminal illness and marrying her husband in just 30 days, Crystal’s "unicorn status" energy is a masterclass in living without filters. Tune in to discover: -Why manifestation is actually just action -How to find clarity through an existential crisis -The secret to massive communication in relationships (13 weddings and counting!) -How love saved her from bankruptcy, divorce, and health crises Stop writing for your ego and start writing for your soul.#storytellingmagic #egodeath #authenticliving #thesoulofconnection

  21. -4

    Surviving The AI Revolution | Episode #3 with Brad Hart

    In 2026, the line between reality and fabrication hasn’t just blurred—it’s vanished. We’ve officially entered an era where seeing is no longer believing. From AI-generated evidence to the total "death of truth," the digital landscape is changing faster than our brains can keep up. Are you prepared to navigate a world where everything you see, hear, and read must be called into question? In this episode, Brad Hart breaks down why critical thinking is no longer just a "soft skill"—it’s your ultimate survival tool for the AI evolution. We explore: -Why we are all becoming "cyborgs" (whether we like it or not). -How to triangulate information in a post-truth world. -The shift from scarcity to a new kind of digital abundance. -Don't get left behind in the old reality. It's time to adapt. Watch the full episode to sharpen your edge#aievolution #criticalthinking #futureoftech #digitaltruth #thesoulofconnection

  22. -5

    Surviving Separation and Unhealthy Patterns | Episode #2 with Jessalynn and Martin

    Can a relationship come back from the brink after a year-long separation? In this powerful episode of The Soul of Connection, Jessalynn and Martin share the raw, unfiltered story of their 17-year relationship. From the "dark pit" of deep depression and self-loathing to finding a "conscious allowing" of happiness, they reveal the exact moment they realized their old ways of communicating were actually survival instincts in disguise. Tressa leads them through a live demonstration of how they moved past "snowballing" triggers and verbal attacks to reach a place of tenderness, respect, and mutual trust. In this episode, we dive into: -The Turning Point: How a local wildfire inspired an authentic reconnection after living apart. -The "Limbic System" Trap: Why high achievers often get stuck in fight, flight, or freeze during conflict. -The "Story I'm Telling Myself": A simple but life-changing tool for stopping projections and assumptions. -The Impact on Family: How healing their partnership transformed their son Jaden’s sense of security and safety. - Living Together, Apart: Why separate creative spaces on one property saved their dynamic. Whether you’re currently in a "dark pit" or just looking to deepen your connection, this episode offers a roadmap for anyone ready to do the "uncomfortable work" that leads to true transformation. Subscribe for more deep dives into the cognition of connection.

  23. -6

    Acting: The Art Of Listening | Episode #1 with Will David Brooks

    Most people think acting is about how you deliver a line, but professional producer and actor Will Brooks reveals it’s actually about something much deeper: listening.  In this episode, we dive into how the "muscle memory" of a stage actor can transform your real-world relationships. From the high stakes of a live theater performance to the "Yes, And" philosophy of improv, Will shares how to drop the script and start connecting for real.    In this episode, you’ll discover: -Why the best acting is actually 90% listening and reacting.    -How to use the "Yes, And" tool to stop conflict in its tracks.    -The secret to "covering" for others when they lose their way in a conversation.    -Why kindness is the ultimate competitive advantage in the creative industry.    Stop just waiting for your turn to speak. Learn how to master the art of presence. Watch the full episode now to unlock the soul of connection. #activelistening #relationshipgoals #actingtips #soulofconnection

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

You can be smart, successful, and completely wrecking the relationships that matter most — and not even see it. I'm Tressa Yonekawa. Two degrees in the neuroscience of connection, thirty years proving this stuff actually changes people. Welcome to The Soul of Connection. Let's get into it.

HOSTED BY

Tressa Yonekawa

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Soul of Connection have?

The Soul of Connection currently has 23 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Soul of Connection about?

You can be smart, successful, and completely wrecking the relationships that matter most — and not even see it. I'm Tressa Yonekawa. Two degrees in the neuroscience of connection, thirty years proving this stuff actually changes people. Welcome to The Soul of Connection. Let's get into it.

How often does The Soul of Connection release new episodes?

The Soul of Connection has 23 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Soul of Connection?

You can listen to The Soul of Connection on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Soul of Connection?

The Soul of Connection is created and hosted by Tressa Yonekawa.
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