Vroom Vroom Veer with Jeff Smith

Heather Melville Helps everyone have healthy, fulfilling relationships in their life, but also focused on helping those, specifically women, who have endured the opposite of a healthy relationship. Helping them heal and recover after a Toxic Relationship. Heather Melville Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Intro: Jeff welcomes Heather to the show and asks how she’s doing. Heather says she’s trying to stay cool in the summer heat (in the desert). Jeff notes Heather is at healthyrelationships.info and asks what she’s excited about in her work. Heather’s mission and definition of healthy relationships: Heather describes her mission—to help people have healthy relationships—and her “utopian” vision of a world where people feel safe, fulfilled, satisfied, and their complete selves in relationships. She clarifies that healthy relationships are not argument-free; conflict will happen and may remain unresolved, but it becomes a problem when conflicts are allowed to deteriorate the relationship. She references John Gottman’s book The Seven Principles for a Happy Marriage to make the point that some conflicts are unsolvable but that doesn’t mean the relationship can’t be healthy. Focus on survivors of toxic relationships: Heather explains she mainly helps people who have suffered toxic relationships, sharing that she recovered from one herself and works on helping people come back to themselves, heal, and stop letting past trauma tint their view of relationships. She speaks about using scars as stepping stones toward authenticity and ongoing healing, and says she’s grateful for lessons learned. Books and flow: Heather and Jeff trade impressions about reading. Heather mentions several books she’s been reading (including The Radiant Life Project and Flow), and discusses the concept of “flow” — being so passionate about something that it drives you. She says the relationship-coaching work gets her into that state of joy and purpose. Heather’s early life and theater background: Jeff asks about Heather in high school. Heather describes being insecure then but already having “seedlings” of who she is now—playful, authentic, kid-at-heart. She wanted to be an actor, did plays (had to drop a musical for softball), and loved theater’s immediacy. She recounts watching The Glass Menagerie and being moved by its themes of authenticity and self-belief. Stage fright and authenticity: Heather says her stage fright came from portraying characters rather than being herself; now, in her coaching and speaking work, she feels no anxiety because she shows up as Heather, not as a character. Theater technical experience: She explains theater training made her a jack-of-all-trades—lighting design, sewing, painting, woodwork, working with lathes, etc.—and she enjoyed hands-on, physical work. She tells an OSHA-unsafe anecdote about holding onto poles instead of climbing down ladders. She also mentions an interest in pyrotechnics/chemical engineering because chemicals produce colors of light. Career transition and toxic relationship context: Heather moved toward engineering partly for financial reasons while living in an expensive city and being financially tied to a partner who had issues with alcohol. She describes pressure from friends/family about getting a “real job,” poor grades during her theater degree (2.4 GPA), then much stronger academic performance later in engineering (3.96 GPA). She reflects on how college as a default path can pressure young people into costly decisions before they know themselves. Patterns that led to and sustained the toxic relationship: Heather describes how she got into and stayed in a toxic relationship: depression, seeking external validation, people-pleasing, codependency, and being neurologically conditioned by highs and lows (trauma bonding). She acknowledges the partner’s issues (PTSD and alcohol) as context but not as excuses. She notes that labels like “narcissist,” “gaslighting,” and “toxic” can help identify patterns but cautions against overusing them so you don’t lose personal accountability. Abuse details and decision points: Heather says the first time she was hit she rationalized it as a one-time incident; after a second physical-abuse incident (about a year and a half in) she knew something was seriously wrong, but she continued in the relationship for years. She stayed for eight years overall. She identifies key triggers that should have signaled problems: explosive arguments early on, a partner showing up injured at her door, controlling or jealous reactions, and later family/friends reacting negatively to him. Turning points and leaving: Heather recounts critical turning points that led toward leaving: Her partner told her that if he got into PA school he would leave for six months in Europe and that she would have to “figure out her own way” if she wanted to go—this led her to seek a German internship and to fund herself. Going abroad (Germany internship) gave her space and empowerment; she emphasizes the transformative power of solo travel to build resilience, independence, and clarity. While living apart and hiking in Flagstaff she had the realization that after eight years the likely next steps were marriage and kids — and she could not raise children in the environment she had experienced. She realized she was already alone in the relationship and would rather be actually alone than remain in that situation. A family wedding where her partner angered her dad and others reinforced the sense that the relationship would not be supported by her close circle. Healing approach and insights: Heather explains major lessons from recovery: Self-worth is the root issue behind many relationship conflicts—fear of not being loved or not being enough often underlies arguments and boundary problems. Respect is a basic human decency, not something to be earned; admiration is what’s earned. Expecting someone to “earn” respect can justify ongoing disrespect and perpetuate mutual disrespect. Healing requires examining one’s own patterns (people-pleasing, seeking validation externally) rather than only blaming the partner. Trauma bonding and neurological patterns explain why people stay, and understanding brain/emotion mechanics is part of her coaching work. Practical relationship advice: Get curious: Heather says the core advice she’d put in a book titled Get Curious — use curiosity to explore why someone feels a certain way, where feelings originate (personal history, your own actions), and to open perspective-taking rather than assuming you’re fully right. Curiosity can mediate conflict and open paths to mutual understanding. Build something together: She suggests testing relationship dynamics by building or doing something together (Jeff jokes about building a bus or living in a very small space) to reveal how partners handle cooperation, design choices, stress, and shared responsibility. New shared challenges also bring variety and dopamine that can help sustain relationships. Solo travel as growth and empowerment: Heather advocates solo travel as a way to build decision-making, resilience, and independence—especially valuable for people leaving toxic situations. Don’t underestimate your power to change yourself; don’t overestimate your power to change others (Wayne Dyer quote Heather references). Focus on what you can control: your reactions, boundaries, and growth. Attitude and broader reflections: Heather speaks about balance, ripples from small acts of kindness, humility about fame, and the value of small actions (saying hello, helping someone) in creating positive change. Jeff and Heather reiterate that life and relationships benefit from curiosity, self-awareness, and steady personal growth. Closing logistics and contact: Jeff and Heather wrap up, plan future episodes, and Heather gives places to find her online: her website healthyrelationships.info and on social platforms. She lists Instagram as healthyrelationships.coach, Facebook as Healthy Relationships Coaching, and says she hosts monthly webinars on Eventbrite under Healthy Relationships. Key themes and takeaways Healthy relationships are not conflict-free; safety, mutual respect, and constructive handling of disagreements matter more than the absence of arguments. Trauma, low self-worth, people-pleasing, and trauma-bonding dynamics can keep people in toxic relationships; understanding neurological/emotional patterns helps recovery. Healing requires reclaiming self-worth, stopping external validation seeking, taking responsibility for one’s patterns, and setting boundaries. Curiosity and perspective-taking are powerful tools to reduce conflict and foster connection. Solo experiences (e.g., travel) and shared creative/challenging projects can catalyze growth and reveal relationship dynamics. Practical next steps Heather offers: learn about the patterns (webinars), get curious about motives and feelings, work on self-worth, and consider building or traveling solo to test and grow. Connections Website http://healthyrelationships.info LinkedIn URL https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathermelville756 Facebook URL https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558475200026 YouTube URL https://www.youtube.com/@HealthyRelationships-Love Instagram https://instagram.com/healthyrelationships.coach

Brian Sachetta is an author, blogger, and mental health advocate based in Boston. After working through his own battles with anxiety and depression, he created Get Out of Your Head® — a brand and book series that helps others navigate their mental health through practical, real-world tactics. Brian Sachetta Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary The episode opens with host Jeff Smith welcoming guest Brian Sachetta. Jeff asks Brian what he’s most excited about in his business. Brian explains “get out of your head” is his writing and mental health brand. He has books—one focused on anxiety and another on depression—coaches clients, appears on podcasts, and sometimes writes blog posts. He clarifies he is not trying to replace a therapist but wants to supplement therapy by helping people “fill those gaps” between appointments with advice, storytelling, and tactics. He also says he is a software developer by trade who does the writing and mental-health work nights and weekends, and is working on a revised edition of his first book for about its tenth anniversary. Jeff and Brian note how common mental-health struggles are. Jeff shares that he was depressed in his twenties (not diagnosed) and has stories from that time. Jeff asks Brian about his early life. Brian says he grew up north of Boston in a little suburb and attended a public high school. He describes persistent fear and nervousness in high school that he couldn’t name—he felt anxious but didn’t talk about it. He reflects that home life was loving, but they “didn’t necessarily talk about a lot of problems,” and the culture led to repression. He describes ping-ponging between school (where he felt fear) and home (where he didn’t feel he could process or discuss it). Brian says his anxiety ramped up in college. After his freshman year he was extremely anxious; his mother noticed, and after he broke down and cried she asked what was going on—Brian calls that a turning point, a “fear and the healing point.” Jeff shares a family anecdote about his mother swallowing a bottle of aspirin while drunk at a party and then making herself vomit; he uses the story to illustrate generational repression and how people “speak about it never again.” Brian commends Jeff for talking about it publicly. They discuss “big T” traumas versus many “little t” experiences. Both agree small, cumulative “lowercase t” events can build up, be invisible, and cause long-term problems. Jeff says he closely watched his mother after that incident and that his role in high school changed. Jeff reveals that later in his twenties he had depression and suicide moments, describing an existential dread and the feeling that “life was absurd.” He says he made a couple suicide attempts, recounting one episode where he took rat poison, didn’t die, felt very ill, “went to work,” and then reached a “fuck it stage” where he decided he wouldn’t kill himself—he contrasts that as a phase, not true health. Brian relates: his second book focuses on existential depression. He describes how doubts about religion, reading, climate-change research, and Tolstoy’s A Confession contributed to his depressive thinking about meaning and death. He shares that during his depression he feared death and the idea of oblivion consumed him. He explains where he ultimately landed: acknowledging life is hard, finding joy in small moments, doing your best on the ride, and accepting that the ride will end. Jeff observes that for him suicide was more about avoiding problems than truly wanting to die. Brian agrees this rings true and transitions to describing an Ayahuasca journey he did, which he frames as something that helped reveal the underlying issues driving his suicidal thinking. Brian introduces the Ayahuasca experience: he and friends went to a ceremony; he watched a Netflix episode about such a place beforehand; he says the medicine shows “layers of the onion” and can reveal things you’ve pushed down. He describes visions, voices, and the sense of seeing “the shadow side.” He stresses it’s not for everyone and depends on openness, setting, etc. Brian recounts what the Ayahuasca showed him: it focused on relationships and how he kept people “at arm’s length.” The medicine showed him that he often avoided direct confrontation or honest communication, keeping relationships manageable rather than honest. He explains that during the journey he saw imagery (parents as celestial orbs, doors representing aspects of his life) and heard messages like “you have to let go of your parents.” Brian discloses a longstanding private struggle: growing up in the 1990s, the word “gay” was used as a derogatory label and created fear. He had a particular fetish since childhood that led him to fear it meant he was gay; that fear contributed to a depressive episode in college where he felt he had to hide or outrun it. He recounts poor experiences with therapy (an unhelpful therapist who suggested fetishes come up only when depressed) and antidepressants that didn’t help. In the Ayahuasca vision, Brian describes doors his dad (as a celestial orb in the vision) opened: one door indicated a woman he’d dated “was not your person”; another vision told him “you have to let go of your parents.” Then his dad showed many doors representing trauma—most were small or empty, until a large, spotlighted door appeared in the middle. Behind it he saw a woman doing the fetish. The message from the vision was that the core healing work was finding someone to share everything with—truth, honesty, and openness in relationships—not hiding parts of yourself. Brian emphasizes that it wasn’t just about the fetish but about a “lifestyle of truth” and that keeping people at arm’s length was sustaining anxiety and depression. Brian gives concrete sensory details from the ceremony: he felt visions breaking, and when a particular vision evaporated he passed gas, noting that people often symbolically release tension (vomiting, gas, sighs, etc.). He frames Ayahuasca as a way to reveal the “water” you swim in—the habitual background shaping your life—and says the medicine can help you see and cut through that. Brian stresses that the real work is communication and deep relational honesty; that anxiety and depression often stem from not having relationships in which you can share everything. He says therapy could also get you there over time if done well—Ayahuasca is a faster, more intense route, while meditation and other practices are slower ways that can lead to similar insights. Jeff describes his own early exposure to energy work and meditation (an “energy work” session on a massage table with an older mentor) and says those experiences were like a BIOS update; that led him to seek meditation and other tools. He prefers slower approaches like meditation and says psychedelics/plant medicine can produce a “firmware update” but aren’t his personal choice due to the physical purging aspect. The conversation moves to beliefs about afterlife and meaning. Both Jeff and Brian describe an agnostic stance: they want to believe in meaning or something beyond death but acknowledge they don’t know. Jeff says he leans toward agnosticism—he wants to think consciousness continues but can’t be sure; he reasons that if atheists are right and there is nothing after death, it can’t be all that bad. Brian agrees, saying he tries to stay agnostic, hopes for meaning, and recognizes the arrogance of claiming absolute certainty. As the episode wraps up, Jeff offers to continue but they agree to end. Brian provides contact info from the transcript: his website getoutofyourhead.com (no dashes, no spaces) and Instagram @getoutofyourhead (no dashes, no underscores). He mentions the full Ayahuasca story is available on the Mind Body Matters podcast by Greg Rennie. He invites people to DM him—“DMs are open.” Closing banter: Jeff jokes about the show’s usual “vroom vroom” style and veers; they both reflect that the conversation was a veer off the traditional path but valuable. They thank each other and sign off. Key themes and takeaways (as presented in the episode) Get Out of Your Head is a brand/project aimed at supplementing traditional therapy with books and coaching focused on anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression often come from both obvious and subtle sources; many people carry “lowercase t” experiences that accumulate. Honest relationships—openness, communication, and trust—are central to healing for both guests. Brian’s Ayahuasca journey emphasized that sharing your true self is core work. Psychedelic or intense spiritual experiences can rapidly reveal underlying issues, but slower methods (therapy, meditation) can lead to similar insights over time. Both hosts take an agnostic, non-dogmatic view on meaning and the afterlife while valuing practices that help them live better now. Practical contact: getoutofyourhead.com, Instagram @getoutofyourhead; full Ayahuasca account on Mind Body Matters by Greg Rennie; Brian’s DMs are open. Connections Website

Rebecca Lazzelle is the founder of Infinite Ember, devoted to a belief that healing happens through small moments of honesty and reconnection with the self. She supports others navigating their own transitions with retreats and as an energy-healing practitioner based in Colorado. Rebecca Lazzelle Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Rebecca Lazzelle's path from high-achieving corporate executive to healer and author is anything but linear. In this episode, she shares the pivotal moments that completely upended her life — and how she rebuilt it into something far more meaningful. Rebecca spent decades climbing the corporate ladder, earning a Lean Six Sigma black belt, leading global teams overseeing translations into 21 languages, and eventually relocating to Denmark as a senior global director. But burnout, brutal hours, and a life-altering domestic violence incident ultimately brought that chapter to a close. In the aftermath, Rebecca took three months of FMLA leave, embarked on a nearly 12,000-mile solo road trip, and attended a Joe Dispenza meditation retreat — where she felt like herself for the first time since the incident. That experience cracked open a new direction: energy healing. She now practices the Emotion Code and the Body Code, modalities she values for their efficiency and their ability to release trapped emotions without requiring a verbal narrative. She also draws on EMDR, CBT, and community-centered support to help other survivors feel less alone in their recovery. Rebecca is launching a year-long small-group cohort and hosting the Infinite Ember retreat in February 2027 in Estes Park, Colorado — a multi-modality experience she describes as a "charcuterie board of retreats." Her memoir, What the F Was That?, releases July 9, alongside a year-long guided mindfulness journal featuring her own watercolor artwork. Connections Find Rebecca at rebeccalazzelle.com, Instagram TikTok

Tom Cladis is a writer and provocateur, a certified alligator wrestler who keeps his sail permanently set for the far horizon. He has authored two books: “How To Lift Cars Off Your Face And Other Tips For Living Forever” (non-fiction) and his latest, “The Age of Serpents and Scorpions” (fiction). Tom Cladis Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Tom Cladis is the author of The Age of Serpents and Scorpions, a nearly 500-page coming-of-age fantasy about two Colorado teenagers who encounter a mysterious fortune teller and are launched on an adventure through time and parallel universes. Tom describes it as YA in genre but with broad adult appeal — think C.S. Lewis's Narnia, but with Doc Holliday, Don Quixote, and Captain Kirk as supporting characters. The book explores philosophy, faith, and the choices that define us, and Tom says readers keep telling him they can't put it down. The book took eight years to write, squeezed into early mornings around three daughters and a full-time career. Tom has spent 43 years in the investment and financial business — a path that started with a cold call to someone he'd met on a flight, who hired him on the spot. Before that, he spent five years as a United Airlines flight attendant, during which he won a local writing contest and realized writing was his calling. His first book, How to Lift Cars Off Your Face and Other Tips for Living Forever, was inspired by a news story about an 18-year-old who did exactly that — and the idea that our minds are often the only thing standing between us and what we're capable of. That philosophy clearly extends to his personal life. Tom has wrestled seven alligators at a farm near the Great Sand Dunes (with about an hour of training and zero footage to prove it), gone skydiving 30-plus times — including once while his wife thought he was at a meeting, six months into her second pregnancy — and rappelled down a 40-story building for a cancer fundraiser, raising around $15,000. He's also jumped off cliffs, done bungee jumps from hot air balloons at 500 feet, and performed handstands at the Eiffel Tower and on a castle wall in Salisbury (his daughter didn't speak to him for two hours after that one). His take on all of it: limits are mostly self-imposed. Once you push through one, the next one gets easier. Tom's book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through bookstores. Connections Website Instagram @tomc_writes

Tom Bernard finished undergrad at Berkeley, he holds an MBA from The Wharton School of Business, as well as a Masters in Taxation.He has spent over 3 decades in finance and has taught personal finance at the City College of San Francisco.Born and raised in California, Tom lives in San Francisco with his family and is very close to being a free-birder (as opposed to empty nester).When he’s not talking money, teaching, looking at real estate or advising clients you can find him in the water… an average swimmer, a mediocre sailor and a beginner surfer. Tom Bernard Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Jeff sits down with Tom Bernard, author of The Index of America, to talk about why the S&P 500 has become his go-to long-term investment. Tom shares his winding path through personal finance—early speculative bets, real estate headaches, and leveraged funds gone wrong—before settling on a simple "set and forget" approach with index investing. They dig into the S&P 500's history and eligibility rules (timely given SpaceX's IPO that day), the power of dividends and buybacks, compound growth over decades, and how the 4% retirement withdrawal rule holds up under scrutiny. Tom also shares a case study showing how Nevada's public pension fund thrived using the S&P 500 as its sole U.S. equity holding. Bottom line: invest in yourself, control your expenses, automate your contributions, and ignore the noise. Connections The Index of America

Jessi Hartnett is a wife, mother, and a coach for those seeking to move past smoking. After 15 years of living with addiction, Jessi discovered that lasting freedom wasn't found in willpower. It was found in the heart. Today, she uses her journey as a source of strength to help others navigate their own path to peace. Her approach, rooted in radical transformation and heart-led healing, moves beyond the surface-level habit to address the emotional and spiritual roots of the struggle. Jessi helps her clients access the gifts of their own intuition, compassion, and creativity to find a unique way out of the cycle of smoking She is the author of Honor Your Heart, a soulful guide to quitting smoking, and the host of the You Can Quit Smoking podcast. When she isn’t coaching or recording, you can find her cooking for her family or enjoying time outdoors. Jessi Hartnett Vroom Vroom Veer Stories Jeff welcomes Jessi Hartnett, quit-smoking coach, founder of You Can Quit Smoking, and author of Honor Your Heart. Jessi smoked for fifteen years before quitting — along with alcohol and weed — and now helps others do the same. Jessi shares her journey from a small-town Illinois upbringing through a career in land surveying (often the only woman in the room), burnout, and years of using substances to cope with stress and anxiety. A diagnosis of gum disease and gum graft surgery became her turning point. Rather than relying on willpower, Jessi's approach centers on curiosity, self-compassion, and inner work — understanding why you reach for a cigarette, untangling negative self-talk, and building new ways to meet emotional needs. She and Jeff also swap practical coping strategies: kettlebell swings, soaking baths, slowing down with daily practices. Jessi reframes quitting not as deprivation but as a doorway to a new season of life — one that, for her, included becoming a mother and finding purpose-driven work. Connections www.honoryourheart.net https://www.youtube.com/@JessiHartnett https://www.tiktok.com/@honoryourheart https://www.instagram.com/_honor_your_heart https://www.facebook.com/JessiHartnettHonorYourHeart

Isaac Tolpin is one of the Founders of ConveYour.com, the #1 Micro-Learning platform for influencers and companies.  He’s a tech entrepreneur and futurist at heart. On a mission, enabling brands to authentically connect and inform at scale with over 105 million in combined revenues from the companies he’s helped build.  His success comes from understanding the relationships between human behavior, business and technology. This expertise helped celebrity influencers and companies to transform their knowledge into humanized digital training. His recent background includes, cultivating a vineyard, keynote speaker, digital marketer, and EdTech disrupter through the pioneering Mirco-Training technology, ConveYour.com, the platform that’s improving the way influencers and organizations connect and train people.  He brings a visionary mindset to his family by creating a legacy raising and educating their 7 children with his wife Angie Tolpin of Courageousmom.com. He refuses to waste his life achieving the world’s definition of success that leave so many empty.  Instead he does what matters through projects, those he serves, and the family he leads. Isaac Tolpin Vroom Veer Stories Had the entrepreneur bug very early; started making and selling crafts in High School Went to college (cause that what Gen Xer's do!); starting doing direct sales in college How to overcome massive entrepreneurial failure and come back stronger than ever Big lesson from this failure was to listen to friends he really trusts Learned how to be a better husband and father and to check his ego Why digital training needs be fun, effective, and never boring Human behavior doesn't allow digital training to take hours at a time; more like 5-7 minutes An optional workplace test game had a 95% completion rate; making it mandatory caused a drop Isaac Tolpin Connections Website

Ace Chapman bought his first business when he was nineteen.  It was an online stock market simulator called CoolWallStreet.  After selling it and seeing the benefits in buying a business over starting one, he caught the business buying bug.  Since then he has bought and sold over thirty businesses and has helped his clients all over the world buy over one hundred businesses. Ace Chapman Vroom Veer Stories Defied teachers in school when told to memorize the names of bones; seemed stupid to do Bought his first business when he was 19 and in college; borrowed most of $70K to make the deal Too make the deal happen, his investors insisted that he quit school; big scary veer Was lucky to sell this ".com" business after the .com bust with a little money left over His emotions went from "I'm set for life" to "I'm a failure" Got a job at a bank; told he couldn't have an assistant; rented space across the street & hired his own Bank found out he had hired his own help; asked to resign Started his own mortgage company and bought a real estate company and kept going Sold mortgage/real estate company right before the 2008 bust; whew Found a mentor who helped him realize that it is easier to buy a business than to build one from scratch Ended up building a business from scratch to buy, grow, and sell businesses in the under $3 million space Connections Ace Chapman's Web Site

Daniel Hayes is a top ranked middleweight boxing prospect and Trinidad & Tobago’s boxing ambassador. Daniel Hayes Growing up Daniel Hayes played a variety of sports ranging from Soccer, Basketball, Football, Track and Field, Baseball and Swimming.  At just 8 years old, he started playing basketball and continued playing throughout college.  At 16, he was already a certified lifeguard and a highly recruited athlete in multiple sports.  In his senior year of high school, he was recruited to play basketball for several NCAA Division 1 and 2 schools. Early Veers Hayes however decided to attend Thompson Rivers University where he and his childhood best friend were offered athletic scholarships.  College proved to be quite a defining time for Hayes.  He started as a Kinesiology major but after just one single acting course, he discovered his love and passion for acting and switched his major to Theatre. Hayes was no stranger to the camera He was a published print model since the age of 17.  It wasn't long after his revelation that the acting gigs began pouring in.  Hayes landed his first commercial with And1, which was quickly followed by a well-known television ad with Nike. Improv and Acting Eagerly seeking to develop his craft, Hayes began studying at The Second City and Groundlings, schools who boast of alumni including Jim Carrey, Will Ferrell, Seth Rogan and Steve Carell.  Hayes added to his training by studying at The Ivana Chubbuck Studio that has trained Hollywood’s elite such as Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Terence Howard and more.  Currently on his Olympic quest, Hayes fights out of the world famous Wild Card Boxing Club, home to superstar world champions Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto. Daniel Hayes Vroom Veer Stories Daniel made the honor roll one semester in High School, the basketball coach was his teacher Learning how to listen to his body after an injury and not push himself too hard Was hyper-focused in high-school on training, didn't have much of a social life Realized he missed out on High School buffoonery when he started college Stories of sibling rivalry, getting bullied & being a bully--yup we are mammals Small regrets of being "so serious" as a freshman in college His college teammates wore him down & he learned to relax & enjoy the moment In sixth grade, Daniel was in the Chess Club - he did 3 tournaments How improv skills help on stage and in life to roll with punches Sleep masks can be tricky if you have to get up in the night for a bathroom trip Daniel Hayes Links Daniel's Web Site is Daniel-Hayes.com

Megan Gaul is a weight loss coach from Staten Island. Her mission is to support women age 30 and up, 200 lbs. and up, achieve their weight-loss goals without shrinking their lives. She came to this mission through her own 100-lb weight loss in 2018, where she discovered food freedom, healthier emotional boundaries, self-trust, and a richer life. She's now in her 5th year of business, and she and her clients focus on small habit-change, self-compassion, and authenticity. Megan Gaul Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Intro and welcome — Jeff introduces Megan and they ease into the conversation with some Staten Island background and shared pop culture references (John Hughes, Molly Ringwald). Megan's new Slack community — a supportive space for women working on weight loss who aren't ready for one-on-one coaching. Members post daily food plans, check in at night, swap meal-prep ideas, and join a weekly group coaching class. Megan shares why she loves using Slack for something this personal. Growing up in Staten Island — feeling like an outsider among Italian families, being a band/nerd kid rather than a club kid, and how her home food environment (three square meals, limited snacking) quietly shaped her relationship with food for years to come. The "freshman forty-five" — unlimited cafeteria access, vending machines, and a photo she almost didn't recognize. Megan shares how that moment pushed her to start tracking calories, eventually losing about 40 lbs (185 → 145) — but without a maintenance plan. The scarcity mindset and night overeating — when you grow up feeling like food access is controlled, freely available food becomes hard to resist. Megan traces this pattern through college, working life, and reaching 235 lbs by age 28. The wake-up moment — post-eating guilt, feeling out of control, and recognizing that food had become a numbing mechanism. Megan talks honestly about the parallels with addictive behavior, without labeling it as addiction. You don't have to give up Cheetos — Megan's coaching philosophy centers on portioning, structure, and meal planning rather than banning favorite foods. Peanut butter, Reese's, and all. Jeff shares his own parallel experience with military weigh-ins, strict low-calorie phases, and eventually finding green smoothies. Small habits that actually stick — Jeff's practical toolkit: "optic flow" walks, the 100-steps minimum, 10 minutes of morning sunlight for circadian rhythm, brief morning meditation to lower cortisol, and ramping into the day rather than diving into email. Megan affirms why consistency beats all-or-nothing every time. Life opens up before you hit goal weight — more stamina, saying yes to hiking and standing events, not shrinking your world to avoid discomfort. Megan shares her Sunday bean salad ritual and how weekly meal prep keeps stress from driving impulsive eating choices. Wrap-up, laughs, and a John Candy documentary recommendation. Megan shares how to find her and what she offers. Connections Partake Meal Planning

Leigh Martinuzzi is The Hidden Why Guy. He’s an expert in lifestyle and business design. He helps people go from living a life they hate to living a life they love. He assists people via speaking, coaching, writing and podcasting. Having a corporate background in senior executive positions for various multi-national companies such as ALDI and Masters, Leigh realised that it wasn't the life he wanted. Leigh made a decision and decided to redesign his life to give him more freedom, fulfillment and happiness. He has successfully transitioned from a dissatisfying existence to a life with greater purpose. Now he pays forward what he has learnt to help other people do the same. First, they have to find out their Hidden Why. Whether it’s finding more passion in what you currently do or a full life transformation Leigh will be your guide. Leigh Martinuzzi Vroom Veer Stories Story of Leigh's earliest childhood memory taking a walk with friends going on an adventure Leigh was a crafty entrepreneur in high school, making and selling things to kids Started college to study engineering; quit a few months later Got a job as a cook--boss was a dick; so he quit--got a better job as a chef! Went back to college thinking he maybe needed a clearer path; graduated with a degree in marketing Traveled and worked for about 4 years to Japan and points beyond; really got the travel bug Worked in corporate for a while; worked at a startup for a while-got fired; felt like shit Transitioned into real estate for more money and freedom; work up pitching flyers and quit that too Moved to Japan to launch a "big money" deal; that failed Realized he really didn't need "big money" to be happy; started sharing value on thehiddenwhy.com Leigh Martinuzzi Links The Hidden Why Free Downloads from Leigh

Dr. Glenn Livingston is a veteran psychologist and long time CEO of a multi-million dollar consulting firm which has serviced several Fortune 500 clients in the food industry. Dr. Glenn's work, theories, and research have been published in major periodicals. Disillusioned by what traditional psychology had to offer the overweight and/or food obsessed male, Dr. Livingston spent several decades researching the nature of bingeing and overeating via work with his own patients AND a self-funded research program with more than 40,000 participants. Most important, however, was his own personal journey out of obesity and food prison to a normal, healthy weight and a much more lighthearted relationship with food. Dr. Glenn Livingston Vroom Veer Stories Before age 20, he could exercise all the weight away Noticed he gained weight when he could NOT exercise as often Found he could not be present for his patients who were suicidal Addicted to "Bosco" chocolate syrup at a very young age Born into a family of psychologist and psychiatrists Industrial food is shorting cutting pleasure centers in our brains Our lizard brains only think eat, mate, or kill...there is no love there When our brains are offered a shortcut to pleasure w/ "food" it leads to extreme self neglect How to use character decisions to pre-decide who we are most of the time How Glenn's "inner pig" self talk system helped him overcome bingeing Dr. Glenn Livingston Links Never Binge Again (free book)

Image provided by http://perrymarshall.com Perry Marshall is one of the world’s most expensive and sought-after business consultants. Clients seek his ability to integrate engineering, sales, art and psychology. Perry launched two movements in modern marketing. His Google AdWords books laid the foundations for the $100 billion Pay Per Click industry, and techniques he pioneered are standard best practices. He wrote the world’s best selling book on web advertising, Ultimate Guide to Google AdWords. Recently, Perry turned “80/20” into a verb.  80/20 is not just a fact about your business, it’s action you take on your business. 80/20 is the central lever for every great strategy. His book 80/20 Sales & Marketing is mandatory in many growing companies. His books are course material in several business schools. His other works include bestseller Ultimate Guide to Facebook Advertising (Entrepreneur Press), Evolution 2.0: Breaking the Deadlock Between Darwin and Design (BenBella) and Industrial Ethernet (ISA). Perry consulted in over 300 industries and served as an expert witness for marketing and Google AdWords litigation. In 2015 he launched the Evolution 2.0 Prize, which seeks to solve one of the top ten unsolved mysteries in all of science. Direct Marketing maverick Dan Kennedy says, “If you don’t know who Perry Marshall is — unforgivable. Perry’s an honest man in a field rife with charlatans.” Perry Marshall Vroom Veer Stories Perry is a cat person AND kids wanted a dog, found the perfect compromise "Gracie" the Cockapoo 80/20 goes much deeper than most people think; as Perry found out writing his book Perry focused on applying 80/20 to sales/marketing; and the 80/20 in every 80/20 idea; it's fractal 20 yrs ago, laid off w/ baby 6 months away; changed from engineer to sales guy; big veer! One type of salesman:  "The Hostage Negotiator"; stick them in a room and money levitates out of pockets. Build relationships and solve problems sales strategy doesn't work Heard Dan Kennedy say that pounding the phone/pavement really sucks; don't do that! Internet Marketers like the idea of people more than actual people; prefer to work in isolation Your superpowers get you in trouble; one way to figure out what they are Fake fax joke; from CEO to branches; all branches will be closed effective Friday--got fired. Perry's superpower turned out to be writing sales emails that speak directly to the individual Perry Marshall Links Perry's Website http://www.perrymarshall.com/

Angela Finlay is a Chief Human Capital Strategist, former CHRO, educator, and author of Skill Stacking: Taking Ownership of Your Career in Changing Times. With over 30 years leading talent strategy across Fortune 150 companies and fast-growing organizations, she helps professionals and leaders rethink what it takes to build a resilient career in a rapidly shifting world. Angela also teaches Leadershipand Human Capital Management at the graduate level, including at Columbia University, where she brings real-world clarity to the future of work. Through her Skill Stacking framework, Angela equips individuals and organizations to move beyond outdated career paths and resume thinking. Instead of waiting to be developed, she challenges people to take ownership of their growth by intentionally building capabilities that create opportunity, mobility, and long-term relevance. In a world shaped by AI, disruption, and constant change, her message is clear: careers are no longer managed for you. They are built by you. Angela Finlay Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Jeff welcomes guest Angela Finlay and they laugh about the rough tech start to the session. Jeff prompts Angela to talk about what she’s excited about. Angela describes her current roles: fractional and interim CHRO/HR leader for small- to mid-sized businesses, college-level teaching (including work with Columbia University and Fairleigh Dickinson), and a passion project — her book titled Skill Stacking, Taking Ownership of Your Career in Changing Times. She frames her book’s premise: people don’t need to “start over,” they can reconfigure and combine existing skills — an evolution rather than a revolution. Jeff and Angela briefly discuss historical job-displacement fears (Jeff mentions the example of a job to pick up horse poop) and Angela recounts a podcast episode she’d heard about the transcontinental railroad and the recurring nature of job-displacement panic in society. Jeff asks about Angela’s background. Angela says she attended about seven schools by high school because her father worked in the newspaper industry and the family moved often; she learned to “reemerge” in new places. In high school she intentionally pushed herself out of her comfort zone (played field hockey on a losing team, joined activities) and learned to try uncomfortable things. Jeff shares a personal anecdote about his mother buying clothes for a freshman dance and how that changed his presentation. Angela mentions putting her son in a uniform/blazer changed his demeanor. Angela describes applying to many colleges; she unexpectedly received a full scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson and originally intended speech pathology but switched to accounting (in part because her father was an accountant). She took a job in public accounting, found the work (manual ledger work, calculators printing on paper) tedious, and left a cubicle job after about six months. Her manager had been put in charge of HR and offered it to her — she accepted, taught herself about performance evaluations via library research, and began building HR capability despite feeling underqualified. Jeff observes that “figuring things out” is a valuable skill. Angela warns about over-reliance on instant help (Alexa) and the loss of productive struggle. They note chat AI tools are often very positive/encouraging; Jeff gives a brief anecdote of using AI to check hardware compatibility for an old computer and the AI correctly telling him “no.” Angela traces her career: roughly eight to nine years in public accounting, then head of HR at another firm, then about ten years with a Japanese conglomerate, Mitsui. She describes cultural differences at the Japanese company: relationship-building, the “ringy” process (needing consensus from many people), and the need to engage in non-work conversation before work talk. She shares a story about a code-entry error that produced multiple memos and made her feel like she was living an “Office Space” moment. Jeff and Angela discuss how office rhythms and politeness differ across cultures and organizations. Angela says later she moved to a community bank CHRO role in Brooklyn; when the bank was sold in the pandemic she reassessed and moved toward fractional/interim CHRO work and teaching — leveraging her experience going into companies during transitions. She mentions accounting-firm sales training early in her career and that she’s “dangerous” at selling herself; also ties her teaching to early acting lessons and “interacting” skills. They turn to the book and the skill-stacking framework. Angela explains the idea of inventorying and intentionally categorizing one’s skills instead of assuming you have no skills. She outlines categories in her stack model: Supportive skills: foundational expertise (examples she names include accounting and employment law). Tactical skills: execution skills — getting things done, project management, time/task management, resource allocation. Adaptive skills: ability to pivot, learn from feedback, take feedback constructively rather than fight it. Complementary skills: people-related abilities and emotional intelligence (EQ) — empathy, relationship-building (she gives a vivid hospital anecdote where a staffer’s comforting, practical human response mattered more than clinical intervention). Knowledge-seeking: ongoing learning and curiosity, the polymath concept and making connectors among different domains. Jeff and Angela discuss AI: Angela uses AI in her work but notes it tends to be optimistic and encouraging and may not tell her when an idea is a bad one. Jeff recounts the story about AI warning him not to plug a CPU into an incompatible system. They discuss limits of AI and nuance: Angela emphasizes the human ability to read subtext, in-person dynamics, and emotional cues in organizations — things she believes AI can’t replicate. Jeff and Angela also discuss image-generation tools: Angela has experimented with them, found mixed results (about “forty percent” success in her words), and recounts trying to generate an image for a white paper and getting irrelevant outputs (a “rose” instead of the intended interconnected GROWING acronym). Angela links this back to knowledge-seeking and prompting skill development. Angela says she’s developing a free app that will let people upload resumes to visualize their skill stacks; she invites listeners to get on the list. She gives her contact info: the website stackingyourcareer.com, LinkedIn (Angela Finlay), and a YouTube channel called Stacking Your Career where she posts videos about the concepts. Jeff repeats the site and they discuss audiences and career planning briefly: Jeff references the FIRE movement (financial independence/retire early) as context for needing ways to make money; Angela stresses building and tracking transferrable skills so people can pivot across a long career span, mentioning the idea of a “sixty year career” and the U-shaped curve of happiness (listeners are told people burn out or are bored after many years and should plan to pivot). The interview wraps up with Jeff thanking Angela for the conversation and inviting her back. Angela agrees. Jeff jokes about “skill building” to end the recording. Tim Paige’s outro thanks listeners, points them to the show notes at vvveer.com (transcribed as “v v veer dot com / triple v v double e r dot com”), and signs off. Connections Website

Michael Brooks of Nuclear Chowder Marketing started out in IT...but quickly learned he wasn't very good at it...he was good with people, selling, and getting jobs.  Mike has had a fascinating life with loads of veers....not so much vrooming. Vrooming with Corporate IT Support job Installing windows, working trouble tickets...not really good at it. His boss told him that he wasn't very good at IT Switched to working a sales support role in IT...which Mike really liked. Tried his hand at programming...didn't like it. He found out he was more creative, working with people and selling...also great at getting jobs. Veer for Y2K Tons of IT jobs supporting Y2K. Got into web application development a little. Martial Arts School Veer His friend who owned a Martial Arts School started asking him "business" questions...even though he didn't have a clue. He started working with his friend as an adviser. One day, his buddy gave him a Dan Kennedy a marketing tape (cassette tape). Grandfather has a heart attack at Mike's Wedding Grand mom moves in while grandpa is in recovery His 12 year-old cousin died of congenital heart disease. Totally rocked Mike's world. Mike was in the Air Force, but was never in the Air Force He graduated high school barely, by the skin of a "D". He dropped out of community college. He joins the Air Force as an Administrative Specialist and is waiting to depart for basic training in the delayed enlisted program. Before he can leave for basic, he is in a serious motorcycle accident. His recruiter does the wrong thing and tells Mike to report to basic training without telling anyone about his accident. Mike was in too much pain to complete basic training, so he left and never went back. Links Nuclear Chower @MichaelSBrooks on Twitter

This is one of my favorite episodes.  I learned about about me and my current thoughts on MY career and work.  I learned that I'm done with my "career" and mostly in pre-retirement wind down phase.  You might learn something about you as well. Mac Prichard is the founder and publisher of Mac's List, an online community for people looking for rewarding, creative, and meaningful work. More than 80,000 people a month visit the site, which includes a job board, a blog, and courses about the nuts and bolts of job hunting and career management. A leading career expert, Mac helps people who are looking for a job during all of life's transitions: millennials getting a first job, midlife professionals switching sectors, parents getting back to work after raising a family, or baby boomers who want to change careers. Mac is proud to own two registered B-Corp companies, which use the power of markets to solve social and environmental problems. His is the author of "Land your Dream Job Anywhere" and hosts the weekly podcast, Find Your Dream Job. Mac Prichard Vroom Veer Stories Why we need to get off the computer and talk to people before we interview 8 of 10 jobs are never listed on job boards, those are filled through "word of mouth" How to get an "informational interview" with someone in your field Why building relationships should come become you send a resume; and how to "give first" Volunteering in groups related to your desired field can help you build real relationships Finding a great job is a skill that we all need to learn and continually hone Networking doesn't have to feel icky, if you ask the person how you can help them Mac Prichard Connections macslist.orgLinkedinFacebookTwitter

Pratima Aravabhoomi is an amazing person to talk to...perfect for my show. Willing to discuss all the little struggles that we ALL go through, but never share on social media (wonder why?).  That's ok, take a break from swiping for all while and check out another Best of VVV that you might have missed. Pratima Aravabhoomi (pronounced pruh-TEE-muh AH-ruh-VAH-BHOO-mee) is a designer, quote expert and the founder of CraftStreetDesign.com. She is on a mission to help you achieve your goals, be happy, and pass on the inspiration to everyone around you through her designs. Pratima Aravabhoomi Vroom Veer Stories In India, didn't really like school too much, but loved to learn In college, only attended one math class, skipped all the others At age 20, got married through an arrangement; moved from India to Alabama Later, words saved her life when she had thoughts of suicide; helped her think things through Job of a lifetime offer rescinded because she failed a mandatory fire safety test Re-married and moved to Silicon Valley; worked at Apple as a consultant; didn't drink the cool aid Inspired by the words that saved her life; created Craft Street Design creating beautiful inspirational words Pratima Aravabhoomi Links Artist Page InstaGram

Lama Kathy Wesley (Lama Gyurme Chötsö) has been a student of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche since 1977.  She participated in the first three-year retreat led by Khenpo Rinpoche at Karmé Ling Retreat Center in upstate New York, and thus earned the  title of 'retreat lama.' Now, as a lama, Kathy serves at the Columbus Karma Thegsum Chöling as its practice coordinator, and travels to other Buddhist centers throughout the country to teach. Kathy is a graduate of Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism. She lives in Newark, Ohio with her husband, Michael Wesley. Lama Kathy Wesley Vroom Veer Stories We share stories of our shared loved of nature in childhood growing up in the Midwest, Lama Kathy in Ohio, and Michigan for me. Lama Kathy talks a little bit about being raised in the Catholic tradition and feeling the spirit of christ during childhood. During College, Lama Kathy was pretty stressed out and was looking for way to alleviate that stress and found Yoga.  This was her first introduction to eastern spiritual traditions and teaching. After college she started working close to home as a journalist.  She had an opportunity to interview a Tibetan monk (Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche) for her newspaper. After the interview Lama Kathy asked about learning about Buddhism, when he predicted that someday Kathy would "leave it all behind" meaning her stressful job, and attend a retreat...turned out he was right, but someday was 15 years later. Kathy attend a 3-year retreat thinking that when it was over she would go back to work, but instead she became a retreat lama and teacher. We talk about we her day-to-day life is as a Lama, which is much like a parish priest or Lutheran pastor. We chat about the benefits of meditation and how after some time in the practice, you begin to see your behavior and authentically want to behave better, which was my experience. Lama Kathy Wesley Links Lama Kathy's Website Be Here Now - by Ram Das Grist for the Mill - by Ram Das Find out more about Lama Kathy's Lineage at kagyu.org Book:  Dharma Paths,  by Khenpo Karthar

Dr. Carri Drzyzga (Driz’ ga) is internationally known as ‘The Functional Medicine Doc’ – the go-to expert on finding the root causes of health problems so you can feel normal again. She is a chiropractor and naturopathic doctor, host of the popular podcast “The Functional Medicine Radio Show”, and author of the hit book "Reclaim Your Energy and Feel Normal Again! Fixing the Root Cause of Your Fatigue with Natural Treatments". Dr. Carri’s newest program is a home study course called "Entrepreneurial Fatigue: How to Fuel Your Brain & Body for Entrepreneurial Success". Her private practice is Functional Medicine Ontario located in Ottawa, Ontario. Dr. Carri Drzyzga Vroom/Veer Stories Working as a Chiropractor and not really liking it Veering back to school in Chicago, moving from Canada to become a naturopathic doctor. Dr. Carri tells her story about how after College in Chicago, she thought she just needed some time off to rest up Turns out she was her own first patient, she had to figure out what was taking away her energy We talk about some of Dr. Carri's patients and their stories Some of the "usual suspects that can cause fatigue" are: Anemia Thyroid Problems Cortisol Imbalance Blood Sugar Imbalance Nutrient Deficiencies Chronic Infections Hidden Food Allergies & Sensitivities Vitamin R, Rest, Relax, Recreation Reframe "exercise" as FUN that is also active...whatever that is for you. Meditation (like Sam Harris) Yoga (if that is fun for you) Boxing (Dr. Carri loves to beat up punching bags) Dr. Carri Drzyzga Links Dr. Carri's Web Site Dr. Carri on Facebook

Texas-based rock singer-songwriter Mark Winters is many things; a witty poet, passionate musician, entrepreneur, optimist, family man, and a bonafide rocket scientist. He first picked up a guitar to play a song for his wife on their anniversary. That’s when he discovered the joy of connecting with people through music. Mark combines music, poetry, a science background, and love for his community to form his signature sound, “rock with a positive vibe.”His musical roots are in rock, blues rock, and pop, and John Mayer, Tom Petty, and Jason Mraz are significant influences. “My music starts from a place of poetry and creative inspiration, and I use my ‘rocket-scientist brain’ to find structures that help me explore that initial burst of inspiration and feeling – like writing haikus, my favorite! My grandmother taught me to express myself through poetry and I'm thankful to her for setting me on this creative and expressive path.”Mark has a degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering, and his math and science background guides his musical explorations. He likes taking complex things such as emotions and expressing them in a way that's easy to understand. Balancing his right-brained creativity with his analytical left-brain is part of a life-long journey; music is one more place where he can explore this balance. Mark Winters Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Jeffery and Mark discussed Mark's music career and upcoming tours. Mark shared details about his "Good Vibes Highway Tour" in the spring and a fall tour, as well as plans to release new music in March and May. He expressed his passion for both music and his previous career as an aerospace engineer, describing how music has become a fulfilling passion project for him. Mark's Diverse Interests and Career Mark shared his diverse background, including his studies as an aerospace engineer and his passion for poetry, which he pursued as a personal hobby with his grandmother. He discussed his work in the aerospace industry, including his experience with simulation design and training for projects like the Apache and F-16 aircraft. Mark also mentioned his appreciation for music and how it played a significant role in his life, regardless of the activity he was engaged in. Mark's Guitar Learning Journey Mark shared his personal story of taking up guitar playing in 2011 as a New Year's resolution to play a song for his wife's anniversary. He approached Steve at Smack Guitars, who agreed to teach him both playing and singing, despite Mark's complete lack of musical experience. Mark chose to learn "What You Give" by Tesla, a song that resonated with him about giving rather than receiving, though he acknowledged it was challenging both to play and sing. Music's Power to Connect Mark shared his experience of learning to play guitar and performing a song for his wife at a restaurant, which led to a profound emotional connection and realization of music's power to create meaningful experiences. He described how he initially struggled with remembering chords and lyrics simultaneously but found a creative solution by hiding them inside an anniversary card. The story concluded with Mark reflecting on how this experience in 2011 changed his perspective on music as a powerful means of connection, prompting him to continue learning guitar. Forming the Band Agave Report Mark shared his experience of forming a band called Agave Report with Manish, a talented musician he met who played guitar and sang beautifully. They recruited a drummer and bass player to form a garage band, with Mark initially taking on the role of lead guitarist and backing vocalist. The band played eclectic covers including songs by The Doors, Eagles, and modern artists like Neon Trees, performing their first show in 2014 or 2015. Mark's Musical Journey and Adaptation Mark shared his musical journey, starting with a band where he struggled to sing certain songs due to personal reasons, leading him to write his own music in 2018. He released his first album in 2019 and faced challenges during a tour when COVID-19 hit, but adapted by performing online. Post-COVID, he focused on acoustic music and connected with other singer-songwriters, eventually growing his audience and performing at venues like the House of Blues Bronze Peacock Room in Houston. Mark emphasized the importance of connecting with his audience and the positive impact his music has had on people's lives. Music Industry Challenges and Opportunities Mark discussed his experiences as a musician, particularly in Houston and Las Vegas, noting the challenges small to mid-sized venues face due to economic viability issues post-COVID. He highlighted the need for musicians to be versatile and self-sufficient, mentioning the importance of community engagement and the DIY approach in the current music industry. Connections Mark Winters Music

Chanda Coston, is a business strategist and coach dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs in the third quarter of life create businesses that truly reflect and support their current season. Her work centers on clarity and confidence instead of burnout, offering straightforward systems so women can reclaim their vision and thrive. With over two decades in corporate strategy, extensive entrepreneurship, and a background as a USN veteran and mother to five, she knows what it’s like to navigate new directions after life changes. She guided more than 100 women to build businesses that fit where they are now, using focused project management, automation, and actionable steps. Chanda Coston Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Overcoming Adversity Through Education Chanda Coston discussed her journey from a challenging upbringing in Hampton Roads, Virginia, to becoming a business strategist and coach for women over 40. She shared her experiences of dropping out of high school at 15, obtaining a GED through Job Corps, and later joining the Navy as an aviation storekeeper, where she earned an associate's and bachelor's degree. Chanda also talked about leaving an abusive marriage and using the military's educational benefits to further her education. She emphasized her passion for helping others transition into entrepreneurship and viewed her own experiences as a testament to overcoming adversity. From Military to Entrepreneurial Mentorship Chanda shared her career journey from the military to government contracting and eventually starting her own firm, which she had to pivot from when she lost her brother to gun violence. She established a nonprofit in response to this tragedy, which led her to explore mentorship and coaching. Chanda discussed her professional background in logistics, engineering, and project management, and the challenges of transitioning from a corporate to an entrepreneurial mindset. She also described the devastating story of her brother's murder and the subsequent lack of justice in the case, which deeply affected her and her family. Trauma and the Pursuit of Justice Chanda shared her experience of a traumatic event involving her brother's murder, which was initially pursued as a case but was later dismissed due to witness intimidation. She expressed frustration and anger over the justice system's failure to prosecute the perpetrator, despite the evidence and her willingness to relive the trauma for justice. Chanda concluded by reflecting on the importance of love and support, emphasizing that love often requires selflessness and sacrifice. Government Contracting Career Transition Jeffery and Chanda discussed Chanda's military background and transition to government contracting and coaching. Chanda shared her experience as an aviation storekeeper in the Navy and her subsequent career in consulting and contracting. They explored the challenges of starting a business and the importance of building relationships in the government contracting sector. Connections Website

Adele Spraggon is an award-winning author, thought leader, and internationally recognized expert in personal development, mindset transformation, and neuroplasticity. With a deep understanding of behavioral change, she helps individuals break free from self-sabotaging patterns and rewire their thinking for success. Adele’s innovative four-step approach, rooted in neuroscience, empowers people to shift their mindset and achieve lasting transformation. She has received numerous accolades, including the Woman of Inspiration: Customer Experience Award and Top Behavioral Expert of the Year. As a sought-after keynote speaker and trainer, she inspires audiences worldwide to embrace change and unlock their full potential. Adele is the author of Shift: 4 Steps to Personal Empowerment, a best-selling guide to overcoming mental roadblocks and achieving personal breakthroughs. Passionate about guiding people toward a more fulfilling life, she continues to make a profound impact through her coaching and thought leadership. Adele Spraggon Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Adele discussed her business growth, including her decision to train facilitators, which represents a significant step toward creating a lasting legacy. She shared her personal journey, including her upbringing in Venezuela and her current dual citizenship as a British and Canadian citizen. Adele expressed excitement about transitioning into retirement while ensuring her business continues to thrive. Childhood Experiences with Mental Illness Adele discussed her childhood in Venezuela, where her mother, struggling with a mentally ill husband, moved with their three young daughters to a new country. Adele attended school in Ontario, Canada, where she faced self-esteem issues. They explored how mental illness medications were less effective in the past, with Adele's father being diagnosed with various conditions including bipolar disorder and paranoid schizophrenia. The conversation concluded with a discussion about brain chemistry and overdose prevention, drawing parallels to addiction rituals and the body's natural protective mechanisms. Overcoming Trauma and Finding Fulfillment Adele shared her journey from surviving high school to pursuing accounting despite lacking self-esteem, influenced by childhood trauma. She described her career transition from accounting to running a daycare, which she found fulfilling despite the challenges. Adele also mentioned her struggle with panic attacks and her decision to seek therapy, eventually leading her to write a book about behavior change and the human subconscious. Self-Discovery Technique for Panic Attacks Adele shared her personal journey of overcoming panic attacks and other behavioral issues through a process of self-discovery and reprogramming. She explained how she transformed her understanding of her brain's patterns and developed a technique involving four steps to address and rewire negative thought processes. Adele successfully applied this method to eliminate her panic attacks and quitting behavior, and she later decided to teach this technique to others by gathering 13 friends in her basement to share her approach. Meditation Research and Brain Studies Adele and Jeffery discussed the effectiveness of a four-step meditation process, with Adele sharing her extensive meditation experience and Jeffery exploring how meditation can enhance sensory awareness. They agreed on the potential benefits of using fMRI technology to study brain changes during the meditation process, with Adele mentioning a former participant who is now pursuing a PhD to conduct research on the four steps. Empowerment Technique and Practice Adele shared a technique for personal empowerment involving four steps: identifying a pattern of physical sensation, emotion, and thought without judgment; acknowledging that one created their reality; deconstructing the pattern; and creating a new pattern. She emphasized that this process, similar to exercise, requires daily practice and takes about 6 weeks for the brain to adapt. Adele encouraged Jeffery to try the technique, which is detailed in her free book available at shift4steps.com. Morning Routines Jeffery shared his morning routine tips, including getting morning sunlight before 10 AM, taking electrolytes with water, and delaying coffee for 90 minutes to improve sleep and reduce cortisol levels. Connections Website Shift4steps.com - Free copy of Adele's book

Chris Parker is the founder of WhatIsMyIPaddress.com, the number one IP address lookup website. Chris started the website in January 2000 and for the first five years his revenue didn't even cover his internet bill. In 2014, Chris was laid off from his corporate job and was faced with the scary opportunity to make his website a full-time business. Chris Parker Vroom Veer Stories Grew up in Tustin California and has lived within a 10 mile radius of home his whole life Went to Cal State Fullerton for about a year; not a great student--then attend the local community college for more years he wants to disclose; quit school when he realized his part time job was paying more than the what college grads were earning Worked in sales for a company called "Club Mac" selling Macintosh computers via a mail order catalog and in-person; not a great salesman; was talking people into buying cheaper computers Worked on IT and web stuff near the birth of the internet for Club Mac; at that time there wasn't an easy way to figure out your public IP address He build a server out of spare parts and set it up in his house to run the first version of WhatismyIPaddress.com.  No graphics, it just returned the IP address. At some point he was getting alerts telling him the harddrive was nearly full; the traffic logs were building up Verion .1:  He offered to answer questions via email; he just the email traffic to generate a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list A few years later Google Adsense call along; and decided to throw up a banner ad and it made a little bit of money; neat! Warning!  Geek Content!:  The server ran in Chris's house from pre-google time until 2014; he had a half rack server with UPS's in case of power outage and a very high electric bill trying to keep the house under 90 degrees and he was spending way too much money paying for internet bandwidth His wife points out that it might not be the best idea to have all the business assets in their house; a break in would effectively kill the business Strange as it sounds there were about six co-location facilities in Tustin within 1 mile of his house; bring your server there and plug it into their facility and you rent power, bandwidth, HVAC, and security. In 2014 he was selling life insurance online; the economy tanked and people were getting laid off work; Chris was asked to transition from full to part time Went back to full time for a while; but eventually he was let go entirely; Should I get a job or work full time on the website business? They experimented with working on the business for six months; which made enough to keep going---he has now replaced his job income with the business revenue Version .2 of the website, no graphics, bar on top, bar on bottom and a wall of text Version .3 he hired a graphic designer to make the site look much better GRAPHICS! Version .4 hired a couple of content writers to create blog content related to online security and internet privacy How important it is to use a VPN (virtual private network) to secure your internet connection; most businesses out there don't know how to secure their network and the ones that do are breached all the time On a trip to Taiwan from Sinapore his wife gets sick; in the airport in Taiwan there was a medical station using an infrared "fever detector" to find sick people and put them in quarantine; Chris noticed in time to put himself the detector and his wife and they made through Barf bag of the month club for dog owners who get queasy when picking up dog poo; start collecting those barf bags from airplanes You can verify that your VPN is working on Chris's site; you can also verify the country of an IP address; helpful to verify an internet order before you ship Chris Parker Connections Website - WhatismyIPAddress.com

Lauren Gaggioli is the founder of Higher Scores Test Prep – an online SAT & ACT test prep company – and host of The College Checklist Podcast. Lauren is also the founder of Gold Star Test Prep, an in-home SAT & ACT tutoring company. With Gold Star, I’ve been serving families throughout Southern California for 7 years. She is a beer geek, a tech nerd and one of my new favorite people. Check her out on Twitter. Lauren Gaggioli Vroom Veer Stories In High School she was really prepping for College totally in Vroom mode She veered to NYU school of theater, which was very different from her roots as an academic roots. She didn't feel like she belonged in the community of actors. She finished her bachelor's degree in 3 years and then moved back to Southern California to pursue acting. Veer away from acting and returned to her roots as an academic. She started working as a SAT/ACT tutor as a job. Veered away from "employee" and started her own SAT/ACT tutoring company Learned how to do most of her tutoring online, so she spends significantly less time driving from client to client Lauren Gaggioli Links Lauren's Web Page Higher Scores Test Prep The College Checklist Podcast Gold Star Test Prep Jimmy Fallon "Ew" Video That Guy…Who was in That Thing… Robert Patrick on Nerdist Podcast Buffer App for Social Media Social Ommph Chris Brogan Subscribe = Love :-D

Dr. Will Haas, MD, MBA is redefining what it means to age well. He is the Founder and CEO of VYVE Wellness in Charlotte, NC, where he helps high-achieving professionals reclaim energy, focus, and vitality through cellular optimization. Board-certified in Integrative and Family Medicine, Dr. Haas blends advanced therapies—IV nutrient infusions, therapeutic peptides, hyperbaric oxygen, and red light therapy—to deliver measurable results that help patients feel decades younger. Beyond VYVE, he co-founded OvulifeMD, creating natural fertility protocols, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Infusive, supporting wellness practices nationwide. His expertise has been featured in Men’sJournal, Daily Mail, Yahoo Life, and Woman’s World Magazine. Passionate about bridging science with practical results, Dr. Haas empowers high-performers who want more than just longevity—they want their best years ahead of them. Dr. Will Haas Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Journey to Integrative Medicine William shared his journey from medical school to finding his passion in integrative medicine, which focuses on using a variety of healing modalities to optimize health. He initially struggled with the conventional approach to medicine, which primarily focuses on treating diseases, and decided to pursue business studies during his medical training. However, a personal loss led him to fulfill his father's dying wish to complete his medical degree. William eventually found his calling in integrative medicine, which he believes should be the standard approach to healthcare, combining the best of conventional and alternative treatments. Cellular Optimization and Health Strategies Jeffery and William discussed the concept of cellular optimization and the importance of addressing toxins and oxidative stress in the body. They explored how factors like poor diet, lack of sleep, and environmental exposure can contribute to cellular damage and reduced energy levels. Jeffery shared his personal experience of reducing sugar and processed foods intake, which led to improved health and well-being. They also touched on the idea of getting a CT scan for a calcium score as part of a proactive approach to prevent heart attacks. Cardiovascular Health Assessment Strategies Jeffery and William discussed cardiovascular health, diagnostic tests, and therapeutic peptides. William explained the importance of assessing inflammation levels, homocysteine, and other markers to evaluate heart attack risk. They talked about the benefits of advanced lipid panels and the role of Apo B and oxidized LDL in predicting cardiovascular events. William shared a success story of a patient who improved his health through dietary changes, gut healing, and IV nutrient therapies. They also briefly discussed the potential of therapeutic peptides under medical supervision. Connections Website

Photo Credit: Leah Muse Meghan Cathlin is a writer, speaker, and founder of Considerate Ventures. For over 25 years, she has been a trusted advisor to authors, celebrities, CEOs, and dignitaries, in high-stakes environments and heart-centered missions. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her son Greyson and their two dogs, Lucy and Django. Meghan Cathlin Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Journey of Healing and Resilience Meghan Cathlin, author of "Leading with the Heart," discussed her journey of personal growth and resilience following the loss of her father to suicide at a young age. She shared how this experience shaped her worldview and inspired her book, which combines memoir and prescriptive elements. Meghan also highlighted her current projects, including writing her next book and supporting clients through her agency, Considerate Ventures. The conversation explored themes of healing, self-compassion, and finding meaning in life's challenges. Overcoming Poverty and Bullying Meghan shared her experiences growing up in poverty and the impact it had on her mental health and social life. She discussed how she was open about her struggles, which helped her cope but also made her a target for bullying. Meghan described the challenges of dealing with mean girls in elementary school and the deteriorating situation at home, including her sister's rebellion and attempts at suicide. The conversation touched on the universal reasons behind bullying and the importance of resilience in overcoming difficult experiences. Overcoming Challenges to Success Meghan shared her personal journey, which began with dropping out of school at age 12 and engaging in rebellious behavior, including drinking and experimenting with drugs. She eventually found success through a job at a jewelry supply store, which led her to pursue a career in the music industry as a concert promoter. Despite not receiving a traditional education, Meghan was able to earn a high school diploma by working part-time and completing assignments on Fridays. Education and Knowledge Gaps Jeffery and Meghan discussed the importance of education and how reading, even fiction, can fill knowledge gaps. They also talked about the stigma associated with not having a high school diploma and the value of obtaining one. Meghan shared her experience working in the concert promotion industry in the late 1990s, before it became more centralized. Career Journeys and Personal Motivation Meghan shared her career journey from working at a rock concert promotion company to a corporate event agency, where she learned different aspects of event management. She discussed her personal motivation, which was driven by a desire to prove herself after facing judgment and bullying during her childhood. Jeffery shared his academic experience, noting his natural ability to succeed in subjects like science and English without much effort, which he attributed to his parents' work-hard-play-hard values. Journey to Authentic Success Meghan shared her journey from an aggressive pursuit of success to finding a more fulfilling path through personal growth and coaching. She discussed her book "Leading with the Heart," which explores the disconnect between societal success metrics and true happiness. Meghan emphasized the importance of listening to one's heart by recognizing what brings joy (YES!) and avoiding activities that drain energy (Uhgs). She also highlighted the need to balance authenticity with practical responsibilities. Connections MeghanCathlin.com Considerate Ventures

Dr. Thomas Recher helps individuals with hearing impairment sharpen their ability to communicate and in some instances reconnect to the world of sound. Right before he began college, Dr. Tom's brother sat him down and said, "To live a fulfilled life, find a career in life that you would love waking up to every morning - where it doesn't feel like work" Nine years later, Dr. Tom successfully obtained his doctorate and opened a private practice in audiology right out of school. The road was bumpy, but with the assistance of great mentors and the power of positivity, he celebrated the office's one year anniversary this past September. Now he's also the host of a podcast called The Positivity Effect. He quickly realized the importance of mentors in his life and now he wants to pay it forward. Dr. Tom is inviting everyone to join him in creating a ripple effect of positivity in the world. Dr. Thomas Recher Vroom Veer Stories Started out in accounting for his under-graduate degree...then walked out of a class and had to change his major Changed his Major to Speech and Language Pathology, which was better...but not quite right Finally found the world of audiology, helping people with hearing impairments Teamed up with this friend, who happened to be a Chiropractor who ran his own business for 10+ years Launched his own business right out of college and has been working at for a year now Launches his on podcast "The Positivity Effect" on 23 Nov to spread the word on the benefits of a positive mindset We talk about how important mentors are in his life and how even mentors you never meet can change your life. Dr. Thomas Recher Links Website

Cat Rose helps creative introverts reach their goals through coaching, online programs, step-by-step guides and my online membership community the League of Creative Introverts. Cat Rose Vroom Veer Stories Feeling thoroughly drained at an office job, didn't know why Quit job to start freelance work; but first took a trip to Japan Learning that introverts use energy when interacting with large groups people Helping introverts sell their art in ways that feel good to an introvert Why Japanese people put non-sense English words on products Why heated toilet seats in Japan are essential Accidentally walking into someone's home looking for an Osen (hot bath) oops! Cat Rose Links The Creative Introvert The League of Creative Introverts

Dan Erickson is  a minimalist. He spent most of his life trying to simplify. He rejects the ways of consumption and waste and prefer to produce and renew.  He is an author of several books and a single Dad. Dan Erickson Vroom Veer Stories Living in a cult as a slave boy.  How did that happen?Transitioning from cult back to freedom in foster care.How did Dan learn to forgive people after being in a cult?How Dan used writing and blogging as his own therapy for PTSD, which he didn't know he had.Finishing up a trilogy of novels based on his experiences living in a cult & his recovery.Turned off internet for the summer to unplug.  How did that work out?How did you get interested in a more simple life? Dan Erickson Links WebsiteA Train Called ForgivenessAt the Crossing of Justice and MercyAlways On:  Language in an Online and Mobile World, by Naomi BaronEssentialism:  The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, by Greg Mckeown

Brad Szollose says:  "Has anyone noticed that there is a generational divide these days? Today we have 4 very defined Generations working side-by-side. Generation Y are also called Millennials or Digital Natives and working with Baby Boomers and Traditionalist. Ever wonder why this is an issue all of a sudden?" And WHY is Generation X being ignored? Brad Szollose (Zol-is) is a global business adviser and the foremost authority on Generational Issues and Workforce Culture Strategies who specializes in helping businesses large and small ignite their business productivity. Author of the award-winning, international bestseller Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia, Brad is a former C-level executive of a publicly traded company that he cofounded that went from entrepreneurial start-up to IPO in three years; the first Dot Com Agency to go public on NASDAQ. His company K2 Design, experienced 425% hyper-growth, due in part to a unique management style that won his company the Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices in Fostering Innovation among his workforce. Today, Brad helps smart companies like Dell and MasterCard, understand just how much technology has transformed a new generation, and how that impacts corporate culture, management interaction, expectations, productivity and sales in The Information Age. Brad Szollose Vroom - Veer Stories Story about Star Wars - How did you discover this modern global "myth" that is so influential? Video games in the home changed digital natives into an on-demand culture. Student-Centered education went mainstream, flowed into the workplace I was born in 1969...so what does that make me?  I am pre-1977...but I love Star Wars! :D And WHY is Generation X being ignored? GenXers have an opportunity to serve as a bridge between generations, I speak some of both of these languages. Why are Valve and Zappos so scary to Boomers? What does the future hold for Baby Boomers? Brad Szollose Generational Distinctions Pre-1977 Analog aka Digital immigrants Post 1977 Digital Natives Brad Szollose Links Brad's website is at:  www.bradszollose.com Brad Szollose on Twitter Brad's Keynote Promo Video (Funny and informative)

Shannon Ryan is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with over 30 years of experience guiding individuals and families through the emotional side of money. Known for her relatable insights and warm, clear style. Shannon combines deep financial knowledge with a heart-centered approach to help people move from money stress to empowerment. She’s the author of the upcoming book Your Money Has Feelings and a seasoned media guest, having appeared on CNBC, Good Morning America, and TEDx. Shannon’s work focuses on uncovering the beliefs and wounds that silently shape our financial behavior—and showing people how to rewrite them. Whether she’s advising clients or speaking to audiences, Shannon helps others understand why they do what they do with money, and how to build lasting confidence rooted in clarity, not shame. Shannon Ryan Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Emotional Aspects of Financial Decisions Shannon discussed her book "Your Money Has Feelings," which explores how personal experiences and emotional responses influence financial decisions. She emphasized that money issues often stem from unconscious emotional responses rather than a lack of funds, and she highlighted the importance of understanding these underlying factors to better manage finances. Jeffery agreed with Shannon's perspective, noting that money-related problems are complex and not solely about having enough money. Money's Emotional Impact on Lives Jeffery and Shannon discussed their personal experiences with money and its impact on their lives. Shannon shared her childhood experiences growing up in a divorced family where money was used as a tool for power, which shaped her views on financial independence and earning potential. Jeffery introduced the concept of the Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) movement and discussed his own journey towards financial independence. They both agreed that money is an emotional topic and that financial literacy goes beyond just knowledge, involving personal experiences and emotional wounds. Financial Decisions and Learning Insights Jeffery and Shannon discussed the changing landscape of information access and its impact on research and learning. Shannon shared a personal story about helping clients align their financial decisions with their personal goals, emphasizing the importance of questioning cultural expectations and societal pressures. Jeffery recounted his own experiences with homeownership and financial decisions, highlighting the lessons learned from missed opportunities and financial challenges. Both agreed on the value of learning from mistakes and moving forward with newfound knowledge. Vacation Home Investment Myths Shannon and Jeffery discussed the misconceptions around real estate investments, particularly vacation homes. Shannon emphasized that while owning a vacation home may not be a sound financial investment, it can provide personal fulfillment and create lasting memories. They also touched on the changing dynamics of rental markets and the importance of aligning personal values with lifestyle choices when deciding where to live. Client Expectations and Ethical Investing Shannon shared a personal story about a client who was dissatisfied with his 37% portfolio return in 1998, despite it being significantly higher than expected, because he felt his neighbor who invested entirely in tech stocks performed better. This led to a discussion about how money is a primal and emotionally charged topic due to its connection to basic needs and societal judgment, and how financial advisors must balance client expectations with ethical investing practices. Financial Risks and Professional Advice Shannon shared a personal story about a client who lost 80% of their retirement investments after taking unnecessary risks, leading to a difficult parting of ways. She emphasized how fear and greed can make people vulnerable to poor financial decisions and fraud, while also discussing the importance of professional financial advice. Jeffery shared his own experience of receiving early financial guidance from an uncle and learning about The Motley Fool's resources, which helped shape his investment approach. Retirement's Emotional and Financial Transition Shannon and Jeffery discussed the transition from working to retirement, emphasizing that while managing finances is relatively straightforward, the emotional aspects of retirement are more challenging. Shannon highlighted the importance of understanding one's financial flow and overcoming emotional barriers to engage with money management tools. They agreed that while resources for retirement planning are freely available, many people avoid addressing their finances due to emotional resistance. Empowering Financial Planning Conversations Shannon and Jeffery discussed financial planning, focusing on the importance of understanding one's spending habits and addressing the emotional challenges associated with financial discussions. Shannon emphasized the need to move away from self-judgment and shame when talking about finances, suggesting a more empowering approach to conversations with family and friends. Jeffery expressed interest in learning how to facilitate such discussions and shared a personal belief in taking responsibility for one's life, regardless of the circumstances. Mindset and Money Discussion Shannon and Jeffery discussed the power of mindset in relation to money, with Shannon emphasizing that positive thinking can lead to better financial opportunities. They also talked about Shannon's upcoming book "Your Money Has Feelings" and her website. Jeffery mentioned that the podcast episode would be released the following Monday and offered Shannon a link to the Zoom recording for her social media use. Connections Website

Anup Desai is a Professor of Geography, Founder of Rentah.com, Lover, Fighter, Activist and concerned human. Anup Desai is an activist, Professor of Geography and Political Science for the City University of New York, and the Founder of www.Rentah.com (Rent Whatever, Whenever). They are a diverse and passionate Sharing Economy Start-Up that is looking to change the way people consume their goods, promote their services and connect within their community.  Geography shows us that populations are increasing, consumption habits are increasing and money is becoming more and more unequally distributed in our society. Anup's desire to facilitate change gave birth to www.Rentah.com.  Rentah.com is a website and app that allows people to rent out and resell their goods and services. The less we buy and the more we rent the less stuff we have to take out of the good earth! It also has the added benefit of keeping our money and resources local.   Anup's mission is to reduce idle capacity - not only in goods but in the skills we hold! Be sure to check out his appearance on BBC World News discussing income inequality.   Anup Desai Vroom Veer Stories Grew up in Staten Island New York 1st generation immigrant family from India Felt like he was part of the only brown family in Staten Island Interned as a "brand ambassador" for rum company; went to bars; drank the rum Completed his Master's degree in Mexico City, classmates were an ambassador's son; and an asst to the VP of Mexico We know there is a lot shitty about capitalism; how do we make it better? One defense project might fund basic needs to millions of potential terrorists? Protesting is cool, but at some point you need to start doing something other than marching Anup Desai Links Rentah - Rent Whatever, Whenever

Monica Shah is a seven-figure business coach who helps entrepreneurs build businesses that support their ideal lifestyles. After receiving her MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and working in marketing for L'Oreal Paris, Monica left corporate to start her first company – and then her second company, Revenue Breakthrough. Today, she takes her clients step by step through building, growing and expanding their businesses. She combines her business acumen with her intuition and healing abilities to help her clients get unstuck, eliminate self-sabotage and move through fear. She is also the author of Getting Rich: You're Doing It Backwards and Pause: 52 Questions that Lead to More Money and Time. Monica Shah Vroom Veer Stories Worked with animals at the Cincinnati Zoo in high school and into college; was planning on a career working with animals; discovered she was allergic to animal hair and had to work with people instead In college majored in religion, environmental science, and writing--those seem disconnected but they all served her well in her future life and work First job out of college she worked project management and change management for a consulting firm; helped Ralph Lauren put their brand on the web during the dot.com boom; the person in charge of web development at Ralph Lauren was 28 years old Did her MBA and then got a job with L'Oreal of Paris; Monica stuck out like a sore thumb--the company is run by smart beautiful women really into hair and makeup since a young age--much like the movie "The Devil wears Prada" Working @ L'Oreal emptying bottles of lotion at 2 am with her boss who says--"Is this NOT the MOST fun thing you've ever done?"  The question led Monica to leave L'Oreal and start her own business Leaving L'Oreal she had the experience of doing 3 product launches a year; so she thought she was hot shit and was going to just kill as an entrepreneur right away; the reality was after a year she was 25K in debt and couldn't figure had to pay it off Stuck in a mode of working 60 hours/week so she didn't have to work 40 hours/week for someone else; walked dogs, did cat sitting, did focus groups and rented out her apartment; rock bottom was sitting on floor in a New York subway feeling like a bag lady She gave herself one year to figure out this business thing (with help) and if it didn't work; she would go get a job.  She learned that she was doing the business steps in the wrong order; like writing a book when you don't have money for groceries Once she learned the 5 steps and the right order in which to take the steps; she was able to make enough money in her business to pay off her debt she also put 12K in the bank; every year after that she was able to double or triple her revenue How feeling shame about not making money holds us back from making money One "money type" is an avoider who has difficulty looking at numbers related to money; conversion rates; sales figures; sending out invoices Monica Shah Connections Revenue Breakthrough

Michelle Dutro, is a veteran of the military and fire department. She has over 15 years’ experience in preventive medicine, which she emphasizes good health as she works to motivate others to pursue their passions in life with her classes and podcast. Michelle Dutro Vroom Veer Stories We swap stories about the Air Force and Michelle interviews Jeff Michelle tried to changed the military...and then got out early! Michelle talks about a veer moment after working in sales 15 years Thinks through all the helper professions and lands on firefighter Later, realized she'd really rather help people prevent 911 calls Moved into coaching and preventive medicine, yoga, meditation Jeff's one thread right now is a 45-day no alcohol experiment If you want some free coaching invite Michelle to be a guest on your podcast Michelle Dutro Links Inner North Star - Website The Game Changer Podcast

Kevin Donlin has been in marketing since 1994, when he sold one of the first ebooks. Since 1998, he’s been a copywriter and marketing advisor, delivering sales gains of more than $1 million on multiple occasions to clients. He's author or co-author of 5 books, including the new "Marketing Multipliers. Kevin Donlin Vroom Vroom Veer A jock in high school; also got highest score in his city college entrance exam That test score earned him $250 per month; beer money! Started teaching English in Japan; got to write text books too; created a job Made Fedex.com in 1994; looked up UPS boxes too and did a little marketing for FedEx Thought about being a high school teacher; decided it wasn't for him after subing for two years Created the Paper Email by printing an email and mailing it to Seth Godin; Seth called! Marketing Multipliers are a low/no cost tool to greatly increase effectiveness of marketing Kevin Donlin Connections Website (Client Cloning System)

Jonathan Harrison, MBA, ODCC is the author of Mastering The Game: What Video Games Can Teach Us About Success In Life available in paperback and Kindle on Amazon. He is also an Organizational Development Practitioner, TEDx Speaker, and Podcaster on the topic of life and leadership lessons that can be learned from video games, found on ClassicallyTrained.net. Jonathan Harrison Vroom Veer Stories How a rejection from TEDx became not only a book, but ALSO a TEDx talk Realized that there isn't "one person" out there in the world who will be your "life" mentor Found a mosaic of mentors in non-fiction books were better than one person in many ways How Half-Life 2 uses great game design to subtlety teach the player how to play the game Jon found that using stories and lessons from video games is a highly engaging method for gamers Portal 2 CO-OP teaches you about your problem solving preferences, your strengths, your weaknesses. When Jon started blogging about life lessons from games...traffic blew up! Jonathan Harrison Links Jonathan's Web Site - classicallytrained.net

Eric North is a multiple entrepreneur and lifelong resident of Washington DC. He is the founder and CEO of Performance Rejuvenation Center, Washington, DCs premier anti-aging clinic established in 2011. All of his business endeavors focus on helping people feel better, live healthier, and promote inner happiness. Eric is a strong proponent for the value of transformational living in creating greater health and happiness in our lives. He's known professionally as his alter-ego The Happiness Warrior, with a mission to increase happiness in our own lives and the lives of others.Eric is an avid fitness enthusiast, aging advocate, writer, entrepreneur, tv personality, and motivational figure. Eric North Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Eric's Journey to Happiness Warrior Eric discussed his journey from being a frustrated high achiever to becoming a happiness warrior and entrepreneur. He shared his transition from owning a longevity clinic to embracing the role of a motivational speaker and content creator, with a significant following on Instagram. Eric emphasized the importance of happiness and purpose, especially as he ages, and highlighted his mission to inspire others to live fulfilling lives. Reflections on Happiness and Impact Jeffery and Eric discussed their personal experiences and perspectives on life, happiness, and the importance of making a positive impact on others. Jeffery shared his realization about his health after observing his peers in the military, while Eric reflected on his rebellious youth, love for adventure, and the influence of his aunt, who was known for her ability to make people feel happy and comfortable. Both emphasized the value of laughter, listening, and genuine connections in enhancing happiness and customer service interactions. Emotional Control and Personal Growth Eric and Jeffery discussed the importance of maintaining control over emotions and the impact of being overly aggressive or sensitive. They agreed that awareness of one's behavior is crucial to avoid repeating negative patterns and to recognize the potential for personal growth. They also touched on the challenges faced by introverted individuals and the value of constructive criticism in personal development. Reflection and Forgiveness in Growth Jeffery and Eric discussed the importance of reflection and forgiveness in personal growth. They explored different perspectives on forgiveness, including a new interpretation of Jesus' words on the cross. Eric shared his experience with a difficult relationship 25 years ago with a sociopath, which he eventually escaped and learned valuable lessons from. Both agreed that asking for help is crucial for personal development and that challenging experiences can lead to growth and self-discovery. Energy Vampires and Self-Discipline Jeffery and Eric discussed personal experiences with energy vampires and the importance of self-discipline. Eric shared his belief that self-discipline is a form of self-love, emphasizing the need for consistency in creating better habits. They briefly mentioned a TV show called "What We Do in the Shadows" which features an energy vampire character. Morning Routine and Mindset Eric shared his morning routine and philosophy on managing fear, emphasizing the importance of daily affirmations and maintaining a non-fear-based mindset. He discussed his exercise routine, which includes walking before sunrise and incorporating home workouts like inclined push-ups and stretching. Eric highlighted the benefits of simple, free exercises like shoulder rolls for reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. Jeffery shared his experience of improving his diet after retirement and agreed on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Balanced Diet and Healthy Eating Eric discussed his disciplined and balanced diet, which includes fresh, locally-sourced produce from farmers' markets and occasional fine dining. He emphasized the importance of proper food preparation and eating according to daily needs rather than strict macros or calorie counting. Eric shared his rule of incorporating green vegetables into every other meal to promote satiety and healthy digestion, and he noted that intermittent fasting, while popular, may not be practical or effective for everyone. Healthier Diets and Meditation Practices Eric and Jeffery discussed the health impacts of different diets, with Eric emphasizing the importance of food quality and the benefits of pasta made from healthier European wheat. They also talked about alcohol consumption, with Eric sharing his personal experience of reducing alcohol intake due to its negative effects on health and sleep. The conversation concluded with Eric describing his nighttime meditation practice, which involves breathing exercises and a routine of reflecting on the day and expressing gratitude. Intuitive Health and Gratitude Practices Eric and Jeffery discussed the importance of intuitive health practices and the benefits of breathing through the nose, with Eric sharing his experience of using nose clips while exercising. They explored the concept of gratitude and mindfulness, with Eric mentioning his Hawaiian heritage and a heart-hugging exercise he demonstrated on television. The conversation concluded with Eric encouraging listeners to connect with him on Instagram (@thehappinesswarriorofficial) and expressing his desire to build a community of happiness warriors, including initiatives for children. Connections Website

Diane Kahn, is a founding member and Executive Director of Humans of San Quentin.During the last seven years of volunteering at San Quentin to help incarcerated men get high school diplomas, Diane has been deeply moved by the vulnerability and emotional intelligence shown by the incarcerated humans she works with. Diane feels a tremendous responsibility to share their stories with the outside world. The Humans of San Quentin. team shares the lives of thousands of people inside prison with the outside world through letters, art, and poetry. Through face-to-face interviews with people in prisons around the world, incarcerated people feel seen, heard and a part of the outside world. Each time a story is shared, it transforms the lives of the prisoners. Diane has an unstoppable dedication to helping victims and offenders heal and transform their lives. Diane Kahn Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Humans of San Quentin Project Diane Kahn discussed her work with Humans of San Quentin, a website inspired by Humans of New York that shares stories and art from incarcerated individuals. She highlighted the contributions of team members inside San Quentin, including Bruce Fowler as art director and Alex as poetry director. Diane explained that the project began when Juan, a journalist she met while teaching, expressed his desire to share the stories of incarcerated men. The website aims to shed light on the human experiences and conditions within prisons, with the goal of reaching a wide audience. Rehabilitation and Reintegration Challenges Diane shared her experience teaching at San Quentin prison for seven years, where she discovered that most inmates are ordinary people who made mistakes early in life, contrary to media portrayals. She described how her interactions with inmates broke down stereotypes and highlighted the need for better rehabilitation and reintegration programs, such as work release and exposure to freedom, which are lacking in the US compared to countries like Norway. The conversation also touched on the challenges former inmates face upon release, including the difficulty of finding employment due to their criminal records, and the lack of a clear plan for reintegration into society. Empathy and Change for Humans Struggling Diane and Jeffery discussed the challenges faced by individuals with nowhere to go, emphasizing the need for change and support. They shared personal stories, including Freddie Lopez's experience of overcoming prejudice due to tattoos and finding employment in prison, which highlighted the importance of giving people opportunities to express themselves. Jeffery also shared insights about body language and cultural perceptions of tattoos, emphasizing the need for understanding and empathy. They agreed on the significance of listening to and sharing these stories as a step toward change. Inmate Education and Healing Programs Diane shared stories about incarcerated individuals who are actively writing and publishing, including a journalist who writes for the New York Times. She highlighted the unique opportunities at San Quentin prison for education and rehabilitation compared to other prisons. Diane also discussed a program called "raw crime" where inmates share intimate details about their crimes, which Jeffery supported as an important part of healing. Finally, Diane described a powerful "Day of Healing" event at San Quentin where victims of violent crimes shared their stories, and mentioned a program called Ahimsa Collective that facilitates victim-offender dialogues. Transformative Power of Victim Dialogues Diane shared her experience conducting interviews for a podcast focused on victim-offender dialogues, highlighting the powerful stories of individuals involved in these conversations, including Elle, who forgave her daughter's killer. She emphasized the transformative potential of these dialogues and the efforts of victims like Elle in advocating for prison reform. Jeffery expressed admiration for Elle's courage and the broader impact of such dialogues, while Diane noted the disparities in sentencing and incarceration practices in the U.S. compared to other countries. Preventing Crime Through Community Support Diane and Jeffery discussed the challenges of forgiveness, particularly in the context of Alan's upcoming release from prison and the emotional impact on Elle. They explored the systemic issues contributing to mass shootings and incarceration, including the lack of early intervention and support for individuals with learning difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma. They agreed that implementing school-based monitoring, community wellness centers, and better support systems for families could help prevent future offenses and create safer communities. Generational Parenting and Criminal Justice Jeffery and Diane discussed generational differences in parenting and childhood experiences, particularly regarding bullying and independence. They agreed that while today's children are more sensitive and have access to more information through the internet, they face steeper challenges after high school. Diane shared that she runs Humans of San Quentin, which tells stories of people in the criminal justice system, and expressed interest in doing more speaking engagements and podcasts with formerly incarcerated individuals. They agreed to meet again in about 6 months to continue their conversation. Connections Website The Prison Podcast (on Spotify)

Stephen Seidel is a TEDx keynote speaker, media expert, and brand strategist who helps entrepreneurs, startups, and HR leaders drive cultural alignment and authentic leadership. As founder of the award-winning Seidel Agency and coach to changemakers, he draws on 25 years in PR, media, and marketing to help leaders rewrite their stories, leveraging connection as currency. A best-selling author, podcast creator, and co-founder of the men’s collective Gents Journey, Stephen blends humor, heart, and actionable tools to inspire resilient teams and lasting change. Steve Seidel Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Journey of Growth and Legacy Stephen discussed his multifaceted career, including his work with the Seidel Agency, which has collaborated with Coca-Cola, and his creation of Gents Journey, a platform aimed at fostering vulnerability and connection among men through a card deck called the Journey Deck. He shared his personal journey, including a TEDx talk on using grief as a tool for growth and his involvement in a fatherhood initiative where he witnessed a transformative moment of forgiveness. Stephen emphasized the importance of a morning routine and leaving a legacy, while Jeffery highlighted the value of consistent growth and prioritizing tasks. Journey of Connection and Resilience Stephen shared his personal journey, highlighting his upbringing in Utica, New York, and later Philadelphia, where he grew up in a divorced family environment. He described his role as a mediator between his parents, which shaped his identity as a connector. Stephen discussed his struggles with people-pleasing and the importance of self-love and boundary-setting. He emphasized the values instilled in him by his upbringing, including hard work, community, and resilience, and how these influenced his professional life and approach to fatherhood. Journey to Storytelling Agency Stephen shared his personal journey, explaining how his engineering background and people-pleasing nature led him to create an agency that connects individuals with their stories and partners. He discussed his experiences at CB West High School, Penn State, and his career at Motorola, while also touching on personal challenges such as hearing issues and a difficult childhood. Despite these obstacles, Stephen found confidence through his fraternity experiences and continued to pursue his passion for creative expression. Career Transition to Entertainment Stephen shared his career journey, which included acting in a Saturday Night Live sketch that was cut from the show, working as an industrial engineer at a semiconductor fab, and eventually transitioning to entertainment and creating his own YouTube agency. He discussed his experiences with emerging technologies and his involvement in various projects, including a YouTube show and a foundation created in memory of a 9/11 victim. Journey Through Pandemic Challenges Stephen shared his personal journey, including relocating to Lexington, Kentucky, during the COVID-19 pandemic while caring for his mother who had stage 4 cancer and a one-month-old baby. He described how he ran his virtual agency from a laundry room, using a makeshift setup with a logo on his shoulder. Through this challenging period, Stephen discovered the importance of self-love and the need to connect with others, leading him to join a meditation group called Meditation Hillsanga. Journey to Authentic Connection Stephen shared his personal journey of finding happiness by reconnecting with his true self and building a supportive community of entrepreneurs and fathers. He discussed the creation of a card deck with conversation starters to help men connect on a deeper level and address mental health issues. The discussion included examples of questions from the deck, such as "How do you show appreciation?" and explored various ways to express gratitude, including handwritten notes and voice messages. Finding Growth in Adversity Stephen and Jeffery discussed the importance of maintaining relationships and showing appreciation to loved ones. They explored how negative experiences can lead to positive outcomes, using personal examples to illustrate this concept. The conversation touched on the theme of love and connection, with Stephen sharing his emotional connection to the Philadelphia Eagles and his late parents. They agreed that focusing on the silver linings in life and finding teaching moments in adversity can lead to personal growth and meaningful experiences. Mindfulness Practices for Anxiety Management Stephen shared his personal journey with mindfulness and meditation practices, including weekly sessions led by Pat Croci and the use of three-word mantras to stay present. He discussed how these practices helped him manage anxiety and negative self-talk, particularly through techniques like naming internal voices and engaging in creative activities like morning pages and artist dates. Stephen emphasized the importance of intentionality in his work and meetings, where he incorporates self-sharing and setting intentions to stay focused and adaptable. Productivity and Wellness Strategies Stephen and Jeffery discussed personal productivity and wellness habits inspired by Tim Ferriss's books. They shared strategies like structuring morning routines, prioritizing important tasks before checking emails, and incorporating healthy habits such as hot baths, lemon water, and moderate alcohol consumption. Jeffery mentioned an app called "The Way" for meditation and expressed interest in exploring these practices further. Meditation and Community Sharing Jeffery and Stephen discussed meditation practices, including a guided candle meditation app and the Japanese concept of Kintsugi, which emphasizes beauty in imperfection. Stephen shared details about his weekly meditation group, which meets on Sundays at 11am on Zoom, and invited Jeffery to join. They also discussed Stephen's website and media platform for sharing personal stories, as well as his community for men called GentsJourney.co. The conversation concluded with Stephen offering to promote Jeffery's upcoming podcast episode on LinkedIn, and Jeffery warning against sharing personal phone numbers online. Connections Agency: TheSeidelAgency.com Coaching: StephenSeidel.com/Media Men’s Group: GentsJourney.co/join TEDx Talk: https://rebrand.ly/seidelspeaking Social Media handles are @StephenSeidel and @TheSeidelAgency + @GentsJourneyco across all platforms www.LinkedIn.com/in/StephenSeidel

J V Crum III helps entrepreneurs grow six and seven figure conscious businesses that combine making high profits with making a positive impact. He is a speaker, coach, Huffington Post Columnist, and best-selling author of “Conscious Millionaire: Grow Your Business by Making a Difference.” He hosts the top-ranking Conscious Millionaire Podcast and is Founder of ConsciousMillionaire.com, a global coaching and wealth product business. He holds an MBA, JD, Masters in Psychology, and has built and sold successful companies. JV Crum III Vroom Veer Stories JV went to High School in Tokyo?  No wait...that's not right...but funny! Great story about how NOT to over gift to your best customers during the holidays. Turns out JV was not born a seven figure conscious entrepreneur...money was tight When JV was 5 years old, he decided the best way to make sure he had enough candy, was to become a millionaire At age 25, he had achieved his dream/plan that he hatched at age 5...he was a millionaire! Realized he felt empty...he had all the money and the stuff, but something was missing. Went on a 15 year journey of growth and self discovery...learned helping people was more meaningful than money JV Crum III Links Free Gift http://consciousmillionaire.com/wealthformula Conscious Millionaire Podcast:http://consciousmillionairepodcast.com/ Conscious Millionaire Website:http://consciousmillionaire.com/

Kristin Thompson's popularity has skyrocketed as she's gained recognition in recent years as a top speaker and coach helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs, coaches and consultants grow their business by speaking their mission and serving their purpose in a way that naturally transitions more prospects into paying clients.  Using speaking as her top marketing strategy Kristin has built a multiple six-figure business working 3 days a week, and she wants to show you how to do the same. Kristin Thompson Vroom Veer Stories Made a conscious choice with her husband to veer away from the corporate job to raise a family Found an amazing opportunity earning great money as a speaker...with no speaking experience (gulp) Learned she really loved speaking and made it the foundation of her business Burnt out her adrenals and learned she had to invest in self care When you are over tired you don't notice until AFTER you get some good sleep Told her assistant NOT to book her lunch break, even if she tells her too Great story about making more money and not feeling "the rush" of victory Kristin Thompson Connections Kristin's Web Site

Phillip Carson, President of Carson Natural Health, LLC is a Pharmacist who thinks outside the box of traditional medicine. He believes in helping people find natural alternatives and integrative nutritional solutions to their health problems. He is committed to leading people to finding the root cause of their health problems and not just treating the symptoms. Phillip is passionate about encouraging and teaching people how to live more balanced, healthier and vibrant lives. He believes in equipping people with the knowledge to make the right choices for optimal health. Phillip Carson Vroom Veer Stories Veered away from Air Force ROTC in college due to a "bad" superior How CoQ10 saved the life of a patient who's doctor sent him to hospice (to die) Veered away from a stressful job and had to spend years repairing the damage Any diet you choose should allow you to comply most of the time and still cheat a little Jeff recently learned that the fillers in supplements may be causing an allergic reaction Chinese medicine intends to work "WITH" the body's natural processes Jeff learned to take responsibility for his own health, with the help of experts Phillip Carson Links Dr. Phil's Web Site (get your free energy guide)

Matt Miller spent the first 9 years of his career as an Air Force pilot, before entering the corporate world to work at both Abbott Laboratories and Valassis. While a top performer for both companies, his long term desire was to start a business and be his own boss. A good friend one day mentioned the gum ball machines he and his young daughters owned, and that conversation began a 10 year business quest that has brought Matt's franchise company, School Spirit Vending, to the cutting edge of both the vending and school fundraising industries. Today, the School Spirit Vending franchise is helping professionals across the country develop more freedom and security, while supporting local schools at the same time. Matt Miller Vroom Veer Stories Achieved a big win at a sales job, ranked #2 in sales for the company. Boss increased his sale quota by over 80% and set him up to fail; cost him $80k Matt was denied a payday loan, you don't even need a credit score to get a payday loan The hard part about driving a C-5 Galaxy in the Air Force is on the ground, not in the air. There is no growth at the peak of the mountain...it's rocks and snow.  In the valley there is lots of growth. A business idea starts as buying a gum ball machine on E-bay for 35 bucks.  Now it's a franchise. Business systems that support your life, not a life that supports your business Matt Miller Links School Spirit Vending Free E-Book

John Kippen is an entrepreneur, professional magician, speaker, resilience and empowerment coach and published author.  John was dealt a bad blow in 2002 when he was diagnosed with a large benign brain tumor. Its removal, although successful, left him with permanent facial paralysis which stopped his forward momentum forcing him into hiding for more than 12 years. As John hit bottom, he rediscovered his childhood love for performing magic and storytelling . Now filled with passion and hope , he discovered that his facial difference had become  his greatest superpower. This new mindset gave John the strength to live life with joy and become a sought after resilience and empowerment coach who uses the lessons and methodologies he learned overcoming his adversity to inspire and assist his clients to get out of their own way and live their best lives. His two mottos are  “ Being Different is your Superpower!” and  “Feed your Heart with your Art” John Kippen Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary John's Journey Through Health Challenges John shared his personal story, beginning with his childhood in Los Angeles and his education at a private school where he became involved in theater. He described his early career in computer consulting, which he started in the 1980s after setting up a computer lab at Cal State University, Northridge. John then explained how his health issues began in 2002 with hearing problems, specifically difficulty hearing men's voices, followed by dizziness a month later, leading him to undergo an MRI despite his claustrophobia. Brain Tumor Discovery Experience John shared his experience of discovering a brain tumor through medical imaging in 2002. After getting X-rays at a hospital and taking them to an ENT specialist, he was referred to the House Ear Clinic where a surgeon diagnosed a 4.5 centimeter acoustic neuroma brain tumor that was killing him. John emphasized the importance of having someone present during medical consultations to help remember details and ask questions, as he found himself struggling to recall important information after the shock of the diagnosis. Brain Surgery and Recovery Journey John shared his experience undergoing brain surgery, describing the pre-surgery preparation and the challenging recovery process. He recalled being confronted by his anesthesiologist about insurance coverage just before the procedure, and waking up to find his face paralyzed, which affected his mother's reaction to his condition. John also mentioned developing a spinal fluid leak that required a second surgery after returning home. Embracing Difference Through Curiosity John shared his personal experience of hiding for 12 years after brain surgery, during which he isolated himself from social activities and work. He described a pivotal moment at a restaurant when a young boy asked about his face, which inspired John to reflect on how children's natural curiosity and lack of judgment differ from adults' reactions. John used this experience as the basis for his TED Talk about treating people who are different with respect and compassion. Transforming Challenges into Magic Performances John shared his journey of using his personal story of brain surgery and facial paralysis to enhance his magic performances. He explained how he transformed his condition into a storytelling asset by incorporating it into his act and sharing personal experiences with audiences. John also described how his story resonated with others facing medical challenges, including a specific instance where his performance inspired a man named Ron to fight his cancer diagnosis. John's Magical Trebek Encounter John shared his experience writing a book titled "Playing the Hand You Are Dealt" and offered listeners a PDF version if they listen to the end of the show. He recounted performing magic for Alex Trebek at Trebek's 75th birthday party, where he created a special show with a Jeopardy theme. After the performance, John shared a meaningful conversation with Trebek about the impact of Trebek's work, which left Trebek emotionally moved as he had rarely received thanks for his life's work. Empathy and Serendipitous Opportunities John and Jeffery discussed their personal experiences with unexpected opportunities to help others. John shared his journey as an empath, describing how he initially resisted this ability but now views it as a way to help people. Jeffery recounted a story about meeting an older couple at a bar who shared a heartbreaking story about losing their son, which led to a meaningful connection. Both participants reflected on how these experiences felt like the universe bringing them into situations where they could provide comfort or guidance to others. Building Resilience Through Empowerment John discussed his approach as a resilience and empowerment coach, emphasizing his focus on helping people overcome adversity and develop personal insights rather than providing direct answers. He explained his coaching methodology involves building rapport, asking leading questions, and guiding clients to discover their own realizations, which he believes is key to effective coaching. John shared his personal experience of healing and developing a system to help others build resilience, describing it as the ability to quickly recover from setbacks. I'm Possible" Dream Coaching Method John discussed his coaching method called the "I'm Possible" approach, which focuses on helping clients break down dreams into achievable micro-dreams to overcome limitations and find personal happiness. He emphasized the importance of dream work in his practice, noting that many people struggle because they're living someone else's dreams rather than their own. The conversation concluded with both participants agreeing on the importance of examining how people contribute to their own unwanted life conditions. Jamie Lee Curtis Mentorship Journey John shared his story of meeting Jamie Lee Curtis through his IT work and how she became his mentor, leading to her appearing in his documentary "John's Ultimate Illusion" which won awards at film festivals. John also discussed his coaching practice at KippenCoaching.com and mentioned his best-selling book for which Jamie Lee Curtis wrote the foreword. Connections JohnKippen.com KippenCoaching.com

One of my big "Whys" for doing this podcast is because it allows me to chat with amazing folks who I would otherwise never meet.  Travis definitely fits in the category of "amazing people"! Travis Chappell is a direct sales expert who has built teams for several sales organizations over a few different industries and is also active in the real estate market. More recently he decided to pursue his passion of helping others and founded Build Your Network, a podcast dedicated to helping professionals grow their inner circle. If you have ever wondered how to meet the influential people in your industry, if you have ever been frustrated because you just aren’t moving forward in your career as quickly as you thought you would, if you don’t lack ambition or a thirst for learning, but just can’t seem to get ahead, then look no further than Build Your Network. If you believe that who you know is more important than what you know and that purposeful and persistent networking is crucial to accomplishing your goals in any area of life, then this is the podcast for you. Three days a week, we will be having a conversation with a person who is considered to be a leader and professional in their field. We will hear stories from them on how certain connections with people in their lives led to accomplishing specific goals; we’ll get the best tips and tricks on how to network effectively, gather their thoughts on the importance of networking, and much more! Each episode is geared toward you, the aspiring professional, and helps you to uncover the secrets of networking in order to push you to the next level of success in your life. Travis Chappell Vroom Veer Stories Grew up in Lancaster; moved to Frenso briefly then back to Lancaster How he ended up moving back into the house he grew up in Volunteered to run John Lee Dumas' both at Podcast Movement Landed Chris Guillebeau as a podcast guest because he helped JLD His ebook "Groupology" describes how to be giving, patient and genuine Building your inner circle is a long play game; not a quick fix short cut Using facebook groups to be genuine, giving and patient works when done right Travis Chappell Links Website

Tracy Gapin, MD, FACS, is a renowned expert in men’s health optimization and longevity, with over 25 years of experience as a board-certified urologist. He founded the Gapin Institute to help high- performing individuals, including entrepreneurs, executives, and athletes, achieve peak performance through personalized health programs. Dr. Gapin integrates advanced diagnostics, epigenetics,hormone therapy, and wearable technology to monitor and transform his clients’ health, focusing on sustainable, measurable outcomes. A thought leader and author of bestsellers Male 2.0 and Codes of Longevity, Dr. Gapin has been featured on NBC, Entrepreneur Magazine, and at Dave Asprey’s Biohacking Conference. He is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging, the Age Management Medical Group, and the International Peptide Society. Tracy Galpin, MD Vroom Vroom Veer Stories Journey from Doctor to Burnout Tracy shared his journey from knowing he wanted to be a doctor in 4th grade to completing urology residency training, during which he made the decision to specialize in urology after his third year of medical school. he described the intense 6-year surgical training period, including working 120 hours per week, and his subsequent career in a busy Sarasota practice. However, Tracy eventually encountered burnout and disillusionment halfway through his career, which led him to seek a different path. Healthcare System's Impact on Doctors Jeffery and Tracy discussed the challenges faced by healthcare professionals due to the influence of hospital systems and insurance companies, which often prioritize bureaucratic processes over clinical judgment. Jeffery shared a revealing conversation with a rheumatologist who expressed frustration with the system, highlighting the disconnect between insurance policies and medical advice. Tracy agreed, emphasizing that doctors are often caught between providing patient care and adhering to corporate demands, while the financial security of their positions keeps them from leaving the system. Wellness Entrepreneurship Transition Journey Tracy discussed his transition from traditional medicine to a focus on wellness and longevity, driven by a personal health crisis and newfound passion for preventive healthcare. He described the challenges of combining clinical training in areas like epigenetics and functional medicine with the business aspects of entrepreneurship, including marketing and building a cash-based practice. Tracy emphasized the importance of financial preparation and his wife's support during this significant career shift. Overcoming Fear in Life Decisions Tracy and Jeffery discussed the challenges of making significant life decisions, particularly how fear of the unknown can paralyze individuals. Tracy shared his journey of regaining certainty and conviction, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness once a decision is made. Jeffery highlighted that making a decision often feels like jumping off a cliff but, in reality, it's not as daunting as it seems, as one can always return to a previous state if necessary. They also briefly touched on Tracy's work with the Gappen Institute and Jeffery's health journey, which led him to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Personalized Health: Beyond Traditional Approaches Jeffery and Tracy discussed the limitations of traditional healthcare and the importance of advanced testing for optimal health. They explored the concept of epigenetics, explaining how lifestyle, diet, and environment can influence genetic expression. Tracy emphasized the need for personalized health approaches based on genetic markers and individual needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. They also touched on the role of hormones, gut health, and metabolic markers in overall wellness and longevity. Longevity and Muscle Growth Balance Tracy and Jeffery discussed the science of longevity, focusing on the balance between muscle growth and longevity genes like mTOR. Tracy explained that while rapamycin shows promise in extending mouse lifespan, human studies are lacking, and the key to longevity likely lies in optimizing healthspan through factors like gut health, inflammation, and hormone levels rather than seeking a single "magic molecule." They agreed that the optimal approach to mTOR regulation likely involves cycling between anabolic and longevity phases, with healthy protein intake and muscle maintenance being crucial components. Scientific Health Information Discussion Jeffery and Tracy discussed Rhonda Patrick's thorough and research-based approach to sharing health information, contrasting her with other influencers who lack credentials and proper scientific backing. They also talked about Jeffery's experience with Moringa supplements and their dosage, and Jeffery shared Tim Ferriss's anecdote about how increasing protein intake, particularly from grass-fed steak, improved a friend's testosterone levels and sexual performance. Tracy noted the importance of distinguishing between anecdotal evidence and scientifically backed information when discussing health topics. Testosterone and Micronutrient Importance Tracy explained the critical role of testosterone in men, emphasizing its importance for cognitive function, bone health, metabolism, and cardiovascular health, contrary to common misconceptions. He highlighted that low testosterone is linked to an increased risk of early heart disease and mortality, while optimal levels can reduce these risks. Tracy also discussed the importance of micronutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are often underappreciated but crucial for maintaining health, and he recommended high-quality multivitamins for optimal nutrition. Sleep: The Key to Recovery Jeffery and Tracy discussed the importance of sleep as a fundamental aspect of health, highlighting its role in muscle repair, hormone production, immune function, and memory consolidation. Tracy emphasized that many people underestimate the significance of sleep, noting that even those who believe they sleep well might not be getting enough deep sleep, which is crucial for recovery. They also touched on how poor sleep can hinder physical fitness gains, as muscle repair and growth occur during sleep, and suggested using wearable devices to monitor sleep quality for better understanding and improvement. Wearable Devices for Sleep and Stress Tracking Tracy and Jeffery discussed the importance of tracking sleep and stress using wearable devices, with Tracy emphasizing that sleep quality can be accurately measured by rings, which are more reliable than watches or bands. They explored how tracking metrics like heart rate variability (HRV) can provide insights into stress levels, using devices like the Morpheus or Polar H10 chest strap. Tracy highlighted that alcohol significantly impacts sleep quality and stress levels, often masked by individuals who underestimate its effects. They agreed that data from wearables can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and motivation to make healthier lifestyle choices. Tracy's Peak Performance Coaching Services Tracy discussed his work as a former urologist and current peak performance coach, offering remote services nationwide. He shared details about his website, gapininstitute.com/launch, which provides free resources including a health handbook, peptide guide, and book. Tracy clarified that his services are cash-based and not covered by insurance, though HSA funds can be used.  Connections Sizzle Reel Launch Page

Kathy Fettke is the CEO of Real Wealth Network and best selling author of Retire Rich with Rentals. She is an active real estate investor, licensed real estate agent, and former mortgage broker, specializing in helping people build multi-million dollar real estate portfolios that generate passive monthly cash flow for life. With a passion for researching real estate market cycles, Kathy is a frequent guest expert on CNN, CNBC, Fox, Bloomberg, NPR, CBS MarketWatch and the Wall Street Journal. She was also named among the “Top 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs” by Goldman Sachs two years in a row. Kathy Fettke The Real Wealth Show Kathy hosts The Real Wealth Show, a featured podcast on iTunes with listeners in 27 different countries. Her company, Real Wealth Network, offers free resources and cutting edge education for beginning and experienced real estate investors. She’s passionate about teaching others how to create “real wealth,” which she defines as having both the time and the money to live life on your terms. Kathy Fettke Vroom Veer Stories Kathy admitted that she hung out with the Stoners in High School...yay stoners! Visited Switzerland for a year before attended college, nobody drank or used drugs! Gained a real appreciation for the US education system and got straight A's in college Was able to intern in television at CNN and the like and was hired to a San Francisco Affiliate Worked in television until she quit to become a stay at home mom Big Veer, her husband was told he had six months to live...Kathy needed a plan to make money She had a radio show, and decided to sell adverting...that didn't really work She re-phrased the offer as a co-hosting opportunity, and that worked for a nice tidy sum The show was such a success the co-host asked Kathy help him sell all the mortgages...so she got a mortgage license This all led to creating the "REAL" wealth network, which is free to join and learn how to start investing in real estate Kathy Fettke Links Real Wealth Network

Robert Klinck (aka "Bobby") is an intellectual property attorney, who helps entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators harness the power of their intellectual property rights and reduce exposure to lawsuits or brand challenges in the marketplace.  Bobby prides himself on making the complex issues related to intellectual property understandable for non-lawyers. He has published two books about intellectual property law.  The Entrepreneur’s IP Planning Playbook and Patent Litigation Primer. He is currently working on a more ambitious project – a book to provide entrepreneurs with an overview of how to craft an intellectual property strategy from start to finish. Bobby has his law degree cum laude from Harvard Law School. Robert Klinck Vroom Veer Stories Grew up on the Texas-Mexico boarder; Dad ran a drug store More academic than athletic but played all the sports up to his Freshman year Veered away from a double-major undergrad degree; finished a humanities degree in 3 years Accepted to Harvard Law school mostly based off his standardized test scores Culture shock; moving from south Texas to Harvard; he felt more than a little out of place Well placed law clerk position working for a famous judge while still in Law School Worked in corporate law for a brief period; knew right away it wasn't for him Became a federal prosecutor in Arkansas; got to work cases within months Started working for a start-up law practice with 2 partners; didn't end well Created Klinck LLC to help entrepreneurs plan for intellectual property from the start Robert Klinck Links Robert's Web Site Social Media Twitter - @BobbyKlinck LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/robertklinck

Orion Talmay is a love Coach and an international Speaker.  She works with successful high achievers. Orion helps unleash feminine power and become a magnet for conscious relationships and love. She founded Orion's Method.  Orion also hosts the popular podcast Stellar Life. She helps women to truly love themselves, elevate confidence, ignite passion and create a sense of freedom. Orion’s Method combines the physical, mental, sensual and spiritual aspects to create an integrated transformation. Orion traveled the world learning from leading luminaries in personal development, health/wellness, spirituality, relationships, and sexuality. Orion Talmay Vroom Veer Stories Grew up in the Holy Land of Israel in Sin City of Tel Aviv Served in the Intelligence Unit of the Israel Defense Forces; learned discipline Got a job selling cars; didn't have a driver's license-felt bored Found a travel guidebook for Japan; started highlighting and making plans Went to Japan for a 3 week trip; stayed for 3.5 years travelling all over Japan Slowly lulled into an abusive relationship; fought depression after her escape Finally found transformation during a Tony Robins Date with Destiny Learned her energy was more masculine than feminine; learned to embrace the Divine Feminine Orion Talmay Links Stellar Life Podcast Orion's Method Website

Eliot Wagonheim selected as a Maryland Super Lawyer who SmartCEO Magazine named a Legal Elite “go-to” business lawyer and a 2016 Center of Influence award winner. He's the author of the Fire, Aim…Ready ebook series which teaches business people to maximize their potential and sleep better at night. Eliot Wagonheim Vroom Veer Stories Nearly died at age 12 after being stabbed at a bus stop A nerd friend spent a month bringing him home work so he could keep up in class Science teacher brought class to him while he was recovering Law school was cut throat and not fun; but he made through Spent 3 years helping his dad computerize and modernize his private practice Spent 6 years learning the language of construction law Started current law firm after a friend referred him because he didn't read Eliot's book Eliot Wagonheim Links Website Facebook Twitter @Wagonheim