One Fear Per Year

War-torn Vietnam.A refugee child.Penniless.Barely spoke English. That was the starting line for Jackie Wu.She didn’t give a polished version. She gave the real one.The night her father was taken away.Their home and property confiscated in less than 24 hours.A childhood shaped by the belief that everything coulddisappear at any moment. And then… America. No English.Penniless.People yelling at her on the phone during her first customerservice job.The constant fear of becoming homeless if she failed. What struck me wasn’t just that she survived.It was that she did all of the following THROUGH the fear. Jackie went on to:• Become a Top 1% sales professional nationwide• Advancing in Human Resources at Stanford University and NVIDIA• Build a global business during the pandemic• Close six-figure deals in a single conversationBut this episode isn’t about sales tactics.It’s about how fear can either cage you or quietly train you to rise.Jackie explains why fear never fully left her…and why she’s grateful it didn’t. If you’ve ever:• Felt like the odds were stacked against you• Struggled with rejection or self-doubt• Wondered how confident people actually got that wayYou will find answers in this episode. 

I didn’t expect this episode to go where it did. On paper, Sam Penny looks fearless. TEDx speaker. Business exits. Ice miles.But halfway through our conversation, he said something that made me think.Cold water. Dark morning. No one had ever done this before. Swimming the English Channel IN WINTER!A few hours in he decided he needed to stop and go back to shore. Not because he was weak. But because he listened to his team and his body(hypothermia).He talked about the weight of that decision. Going back to his room. And feeling that decision.The crazy cool thing is that support poured in. From strangers. From people who had never met him. From people who understood that trying matters more than finishing and that failure doesn't exist when you learn a lesson from it. This isn’t a story about conquering fear.It is about naming it. Living with it. And realizing that failure doesn’t isolate or demote you the way your mind tells you it will.Sam shared what it’s really like to:• Feel imposter syndrome before a TEDx talk• Train for things that genuinely risk your life• Step away before the finish line and still stand proud• Learn that people don’t judge effort. They actually rally around itAt the end of the episode, I asked him the question I ask every guest.What’s the opposite of fear? His answer came without hesitation.Start.If you’ve been holding back because you’re afraid of failing, being judged, or not finishing strong…This episode might shift something for you.

You don’t usually hear this part of leadership. The part where fear shows up in your body…before your brain ever catches up. The part where success doesn’t make it go away.Where titles don’t quiet the inner critic.Where confidence on the outside can still mean paddling fastunderneath. On this episode, I sat down with the remarkable Julie Menden. She is an executive coach, keynote speaker, Forbes Coaches Council member, and founder of a boutique leadership development firm working with executives and high-performing leaders across industries. Pretty incredible person to be speaking with on the topic ofFEAR!  What we talked about wasn’t a surface-level leadershipconversation. Julie shared what it looks like to• navigate fear at every stage of success• understand how the inner critic is formed (and why it sticks)• build presence from the inside out, not through performance• take the next step even when fear is loud• and show up on stage shortly after cancer treatment wheneverything in her wanted to cancel There’s a moment where she talks about getting stitches removed from her face, getting on a plane anyway, and speaking to a room full of healthcare executives while repeating one quiet phrase to herself: “Be brave.” This episode is for leaders who are doing the workand still feel fear.For people who want real tools, not generic.For anyone building courage one step at a time. If fear has been whispering latelythis conversation might be exactly what you need.

Most high performers do not need more discipline. They need a better recovery plan. (And no, a once a year vacation does not count.)On the episode, I sat down with Eric Recker, a dentist and “chaos reduction” coach for medical practice owners. Eric has lived the thing so many leaders hide.He ran an 18 person dental practice into the ground, burnout, panic attacks, the whole spiral, then rebuilt it into a calmer, profitable practice that runs smoothly. Now he helps other medical entrepreneurs create calm, not by adding more systems, but by reducing the chaos at the source. Eric teaches “the dam analogy.”Outflow is everything that drains you, even good things.Work. Habits. Volunteering. Vacation planning.All outflow. Reserves are the lake behind the dam.When the lake is low, you can look “successful” and still be one hard week away from snapping. So the real goal is balance. An appropriate amount of outflow, matched with self care that fills the dam back up. If you work 40, 50, 60 hours a week, this episode is for you.

This week on the One Fear Per Year podcast, I sat down with someone who understands the weight of “doing it all”… because she lived it. Carol Williams isn’t just a productivity coach.She’s a certified coach, speaker, and thelongtime Dream Director at the Beacon of Light Center --> thewoman executives and business owners call when their life feels scattered and they’re burning out quietly behind the scenes.   She has spent 16 years helping entrepreneurslevel up without losing themselves, speaking at statewide HRorganizations, summits, and podcasts, and building her signature “Success Cake”method that brings the fun back into productivity.   But what I didn’t expect was how deeply she would speak to the fears we never say out loud.The ones that push us to overwork.The ones that whisper “you won’t be enough unless you keep going.”The ones that make us ignore our own non-negotiables until we crack. She shared the moment everything changed for her, leaving a toxic marriage, sitting with the terror of “How will I make it alone?” and asking for help for the first time in her life.(Not because she wasn’t strong… but because staying the same was finally more painful than stepping into the unknown.) We talked burnout.We talked feminine and masculine energy.We talked about why so many of us are afraid to slow down… even when it’s the only way to heal. And at the end, I asked her the opposite of fear.One word.Her answer? Love. Because we’re either living from fear, or living from love.And every day, we choose. What’s one fear that’s been pushing you to go faster… when what youreally need is to pause? Full episode in the comments below! #onefearperyear

I met Vlad a few years ago at an event in Detroit.I had no idea who he was. He had no idea who I was.But he watched me walk on stage, freeze, fall to my knees,and then speaking straight from my heart - no script, just me. Instead of judging me, he saw something else.Something human.Something real. Vlad is the Founder and CEO of Company Folders and has spent more than 20 years building one of the most respected print companies in the country. His team has created press kits for Sony Pictures, served brands likeNestle, Hallmark, Bed Bath and Beyond, and delivered some of the most unique die-cuts and presentation designs in the industry. He truly loves what he does and his passion shines through! But what I was most impressed with wasn’t his success.It was his honesty about fear. In this episode, Vlad shares: • What it was like growing up in the former Soviet Union where fear was part of daily life.  • How buying an entire commercial building for his companyterrified him even after every expert told him it was the right move.• Why starting a business kept him awake at night, cycling through every what-if imaginable.• How his next big leap is hosting an executive program inSingapore… and why he’s scared and certain at the same time.  • The simple shift in language that can turn anxiety intoexcitement. I love when he pointed out: “The only people who will judge you are the ones who haven’t done anything themselves.”  This conversation is about choosing courage when fear shows up.It’s about telling the truth to yourself in words that lift youinstead of limit you.It’s about remembering that love and fear cannot exist in the same breath.If you’ve ever stood at the edge of something new…If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re ready…If you’ve ever felt fear and moved anyway…This episode is for you. What’s the thing you’re scared to walk toward right now?And what might happen if you choose love instead?#OneFearPerYear

I just sat down with an amazing woman who explained scientifically what happens when we feel fear and how to navigate that pattern of behavior.Her name is Dr. Mohita Shrivastava.Neuroscientist. Neuropsychologist. Founder of The Cognitome Program.PhD from AIIMS New Delhi. Research trained at the University of Kansas Medical Center.Published author. International editorial board member.15+ years studying the brain, cognition, and how our thoughts shape our reality.Yeah, she is incredible!!!And what she shared on the my podcast was truly eye opening.When she talks about fear, she doesn’t talk about it like an emotion. She talks about it like a circuit. A pattern. A process that can be rewired.I LOVE when she said: “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.”(And a trained brain becomes a brave brain.)We dug into everything: How people mix up the brain and the mind and stay stuck because of it.Why the amygdala hijacks your logic.The moment your prefrontal cortex goes offline.How to use neuroplasticity to retrain your thoughts at any age.Why naming the fear gives you control.How breathing resets your nervous system.And the fear ladder… the tiny steps that slowly teach your brain safety instead of danger.Whew, this episode is jam packed full of goodness!It made me realize something huge: Fear is not the enemy.Being unaware of its mechanics is.And the way she explains it… it just clicks. (Even the science feels simple when she breaks it down.)So if you’ve ever felt hijacked by fear or trapped in your thoughts or anxious about things that haven’t even happened yet… this episode is for you.It’s insightful. It’s grounding. And it gives you tools you can use today.What’s one fear you’re ready to face with a different kind of brain this time?#OneFearPerYear

This week I sat down with someone who has spent over 20 years helping people break fear at the deepest level:Dr. Albert Bramante.Talent Agent. Psychology Professor. Hypnosis & NLP Expert. Author of Rise Above the Script.And a coach who has helped actors land roles on major networks, mentored thousands of students, and taught people how to rewire fear at the subconscious level.(Yes, he’s the real deal.)What blew me away wasn’t just his resume…It was how simply he explained something most of us wrestle with every day: Why fear gets programmed into us.Why it sticks.And how to finally undo it.In this episode, we dive into so much:• How one moment of fear can shape your entire life• What hypnosis actually is (and why it isn’t mind control)• How to neutralize emotional triggers without reliving trauma• Why visualization works for Olympians, actors, and yes… you• The difference between fear and excitement (this reframe is everything)• How AI can help you access clarity, confidence, and courage• What stops people from stepping into the spotlight• And Albert’s own fear | becoming a first-time author and showing his face on cameraThere’s this moment — and you’ll hear it — where he says:“Fear and excitement feel the same in the body. The only difference is the meaning you give it.”If you’ve been carrying old stories…If your fear feels automatic…If you want to understand what’s happening inside your mind so you can finally move forward…This conversation is your turning point.

When I first talked to Michael Bryant, I thought I was interviewing a coach.Turns out, I was sitting across from someone pushing boundaries (and helping others do the same). At 74 years old, Michael crossed the Ironman finish lineHIS SEVENTH TIMEat 16 hours, 59 minutes, and 15 seconds.(One minute before the cut-off.)But here’s what struck me most:For him, it wasn’t about the medal. It was about the mindset.“A quest is different from a goal,” hetold me“A quest gets obsessive. You becomepossessed by it.”Michael calls himself a Professional Unstucker, an executive coach who helps leaders stretch past fear, excuses,and “practicality.”Because as he says, those words ***realistic, feasible, doable***  are the “death words” of growth. He’s proof that courage compounds with age.That no risk = no growth.That being “outrageous” might just be the healthiest decisionyou’ll ever make.If you’ve been waiting for permission to start your nextchapter consider this as permission! 

When I sat down with Dan MacQueen, I was reminded of what true resilience looks like. At 28, Dan was living the dream. Working in tech, traveling Europe, laughing with friends, full of life.Until one day, taking the tube home on a London subway…everything went black. He woke up unable to walk, talk, or even smile.The doctors said this was his new reality.But Dan had other plans.Step by step, word by word, he rebuilt himself.Through pain. Through frustration. Through fear.And somewhere between the hospital bed and the stage, he discovered something powerful:“It’s not what happens to you that defines you... it’s how yourespond.”Today, Dan is an international keynote speaker on resilience, change, and mindset, helping organizations and leadersreframe adversity into opportunity.He’s funny. He’s real. And his story will make you rethink what’struly possible.Sometimes you have to lose everything to learn how to see again.So here’s my question for you:What’s one fear you’ve been avoiding that might actually be your path to growth?#onefearperyear #chasecourage

You don’t have to shine like everyone else. (Your messiness looks different and that’s a good thing) When I sat down with Kelly Swanson on this week's Podcast, I thought we’d be talking about courage.We ended up talking about permission. Permission to show up messy.To laugh at yourself.To walk off the stage (literally)… and still own the room. Kelly is a National Speakers Hall ofFame inductee, a funny motivational keynote speaker, and a master of strategic storytelling who’shelped leaders and teams across the world turn their mess into theirmessage. But what struck me most wasn’t her humor or success.It was this: “People don’tremember perfect They remember real.” She shared how, after years of trying to fit the mold, she finallydecided to stop hiding the southern sass, the rhinestones, the glitter.And that one decision, to show up as herself, changedeverything. Her story is a reminder that fear doesn’t disappear when you stepinto the spotlight.You just learn to make it your co-star. And sometimes?Falling off the stage becomes the most unforgettable part of yourstory. 🎧 Listen to Kelly’s full episode on the OneFear Per Year Podcast(You’ll laugh, you’ll reflect, and you’ll rethink what “failure”really means.) ♻️ Repost this to remind someone that imperfection is thebrand.👋 Follow One Fear Per Year for morestories of courage, fear, and growth(and humor!).

You know that voice in your head that says,“What if I fail?”“What if I’m not good enough?”“What if I embarrass myself?”Jonathan Graham calls that voice a liar.He spent years at Netflix and Apple, helping shape products used by hundreds of millions of people. But when he looked closer, he realized something bigger: The greatest limits weren’t in technology.They were in fear.Now he’s on a mission to help 1 million people build courage. To fact-check their fears and step into the potential waiting on the other side.In this conversation, Jonathan shares: • Why 91% of what we fear never comes true• The 5-step “FACTS” framework to shrink fear’s grip• How courage is like a muscle. One we can train daily• And why the opposite of fear isn’t confidence… it’s love.This episode is a reminder that fear isn’t a stop sign. It’s an invitation to grow.#WalkThroughFear #Courage #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #OneFearPerYear

In this week’s episode of One Fear Per Year, I sat down with comedian and storyteller Holly James.  We talk about what happens when you stop living for approval and start livingfor truth.Holly shares how walking through fear meant losing parts of her old life… and finding something even deeper on the other side.We talked about:✨ Choosing the thing you’d regret not trying✨ The courage to be misunderstood✨ What it means to build a life after you leteverything fall apartIt’s raw.It’s funny.And it’s one of the most honest conversations I’ve had aboutrediscovering who you really are.What’s one thing you’ve been afraid to start because you don’t feel ready yet?#OneFearPerYear #Podcast #Courage #Authenticity #Storytelling

You ever meet someone and instantly feel like they see you?That was my first conversation with Kris Kelso. We met at the National Speakers Association conference, and I overheard him say two words that stopped me in my tracks:“Humble confidence.”Those two words felt like truth. Because for so many of us chasing purpose, leading teams, or trying something new… we swing between I’ve got this and who am I to do this?Chris knows that dance better than most. He’s a global keynote speaker, leadership coach, and author of Overcoming the Impostor, a book that’s helped thousands silence their inner critic and lead with confidence.He’s coached entrepreneurs across the world, written for Fast Company and Yahoo Finance, and serves as Dean of Entrepreneurship at the Professional Christian Coaching Institute — yet he’s the first to admit he once feared being “found out.”In this episode, we talk about:💭 The trap of “proud insecurity” — pretending to have it all together while secretly doubting yourself.💡 How humility and confidence aren’t opposites — they’re partners.🧠 Why imposter syndrome is a human problem, not a weakness.❤️ And how peace, not perfection, might just be the opposite of fear.This conversation is real, grounding, and freeing. Because every one of us has doubted whether we’re enough — and every one of us can learn to lead with humble confidence.

You can win a Tony Award…stand on stage at Radio City Music Hall…and still feel completely empty inside. That’s exactly what happened to Nick Demos. From the outside, he had it all—Tony and Olivier Award–winning producer.Award-winning filmmaker.Eight-figure business coach & leader.A life most people only dream about. But behind the scenes?Nick was running.Chasing achievements to cover fear and pain. Until the night he realized…“This isn’t it.” That moment changed everything.He dove into deep soul work, spiritual practice, and healing—and emerged with a new mission:helping leaders and entrepreneurs share their stories authentically on stage. In our conversation on One Fear Per Year, Nick opens upabout:➜ Growing up hiding who he was—and the mentors whosaved him.➜ The truth about chasing external success (and whyit leaves us empty).➜ How fear points us toward the very places we’remeant to grow.➜ The bold new project that scares him right now—andwhy he’s doing it anyway. This is an episode about courage, authenticity, and rewriting what “success” really means. Listen in. You won’t forget it. #OneFearPerYear

You don’t have to have it all figured out. Especially when lifefeels like quicksand and moving a million miles per minute. When I sat down with Jennifer Fondrevay I knew the conversation would hit deep because she's not just another consultant.She’s the M&A Whisperer! A global speaker and best selling author of Now What? A Survivor’s Guide for Thriving Through Mergers & Acquisitions. She’s been on all sides of billion dollar deals.She’s written for Forbes and Harvard Business Review.She’s even stood on the TEDx stage.But what struck me most wasn’t the accolades.It was her honesty. She talked about fear (and not knowing what to do when it hits!)The kind that shows up when everything you’ve built suddenly shifts, changes, and becomes something unrecognizable.The fear of not being valuable anymore.Of wondering if your skills will matter in the future. Her advice?Focus on what you can control:➜ Your talent➜ Your effort➜ Your attitude Everything else? Cross it off the list. “No one is going totell you your value. It’s your job to get clear on what you bring to the company moving forward.” It sounds simple, but when Jennifer walked me through the exercise she gives executive teams after a merger, I understood it. Because whether it’s business or just life itself… the fear is the same:Am I enough? Jennifer reminds us WE ARE if we’re willing to own it. This episode left me inspired to let go of what I can’t control and double down on what I can. So, what about you? !hat fear are you ready to cross off your list? #OneFearPerYear

You don’t often hear a Marine, a PhD in psychology, and a corporate executive talk about… love being the opposite word of fear. But that’s exactly what happened when I satdown with Matt Poepsel on the One Fear Per Year podcast. Matt’s journey is incredibleFrom serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as anArabic Linguist…To earning his PhD in Psychology and MBA fromBoston University…To becoming the “Godfather of TalentOptimization” at The Predictive Index. He climbed the ladder of achievement. But none of it brought lasting fulfillment. It took a midlife crisis, meditation, andasking the BIG questions to change everything. Now, Matt helps leaders embrace what he calls“enlightened leadership” a blend of Eastern philosophy, Western psychology, anddecades of business experience. In this conversation, we dive into:➜ The fear that almost stoppedhim from writing his book Expand the Circle➜ Why 85% of us are lying toourselves about self-awareness➜ How love—not courage—is thetrue opposite of fear➜ What it means to createripples of unity and connection in leadership This is not your typical leadership message.It’s deeper.It’s braver.And it might just be the perspective shiftyou’ve been waiting for. So what’s one fear you’ve been avoiding that,if faced, could ripple out into something bigger than yourself? #OneFearPerYear

✨ What does it really take to leave behind the safety of a paycheck and step boldly into entrepreneurship?On this week’s One Fear Per Year podcast, I sat down with a lovely human I've known for over a decade, Katrina Sawa.Katrina is known as The Jumpstart Your Biz Coach. She is a 14-time international best-selling author, speaker, and the CEO of Jumpstart Publishing, where she has helped countless entrepreneurs grow faster, publish books, and design businesses they actually love.In our conversation, Katrina opened up about:💡 The decision to walk away from her 9-5 job and start her own business💡 How “It’ll all work out” became the motto that carried her through 23 years of entrepreneurship💡 The deeper fears she faced around love and worthiness, and how she turned them into lessons of self-love💡 Why creating community and surrounding yourself with love is just as powerful as any business strategyHer story is raw, honest, and full of wisdom for anyone navigating fear in life or business.#onefearperyear

What if your biggest fear…became your greatest purpose?On this week’s One Fear Per Year podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with Jose Angel Pereira—a man whose story left me both shaken and deeply inspired.Jose was at the pinnacle of his career as CEO of CITGO Petroleum. An immigrant who had worked tirelessly for decades, he was ready to retire… when everything changed.Instead of stepping into retirement, he stepped into captivity.For five years he lived as an international hostage in Venezuela.(One year spent completely alone, in solitary confinement.)And yet, what struck me most was not the pain of his story, but the power. The way he turned unimaginable fear into an “Unbreakable Leadership” framework. The way he now helps executives, entrepreneurs, and everyday people break free from being “mental hostages” in their own lives.Because as Jose said:👉 “You don’t have to be a physical hostage. You can be a mental hostage too. But fear can be transformed into purpose, if you choose it.”This conversation will challenge you. It will move you. And it will remind you that nothing, absolutely nothing, is impossible.What fear in your life is waiting to be transformed into purpose? #OneFearPerYear

You know what the opposite of fear is? For Kathy Guest, it’s laughter.(Healthy laughter… the kind that frees you) Kathy spent 20+ years in the tech world by day…and on comedy stages by night. At first, she kept those worlds separate.Professional Kathy.Funny Kathy. But that fragmentation wasn’t sustainable. So she did the brave thing and merged them. Now she teaches teams how to break out of rigidity, bring play into the workplace, and unlock innovation, through comedy and improv. Fear, uncertainty, and rigidity are creativity killers.But play?Micro-moments of laughter?A culture that makes it safe to take risks? That’s where innovation actually lives. As Kathy says:“20 years in tech didn’t make me braver. Comedy did.” And that bravery is what she now helps others build. You're going to love this insightful conversation!Kathy’s energy, wisdom, and humor are a reminder that we don’t have to choose between “serious” and “silly.”We can be both.In fact, we need both.Here's to lots of laughter sprinkled in and lots of safe places to innovate!#onefearperyear

Julian Pistone left his 10-year career at Google.Moved continents.Walked through chronic pain.And committed his life to one mission: 💡 To study, capture, and live courage. Not in theory. But in practice. In the Amazon, he sat with women fighting cartels.In Colombia, he filmed a story of forgiveness between a brother andhis sibling’s murderer.And in the middle of it all, he found one surprising truth: 🚫 Courage isn’t fearlessness.✨ It’s purpose.✨ It’s action.✨ It’s love. (And yes, love can be terrifying too.) 🎙️ In this conversation, Julian shares:→ How savoring pain became his greatest teacher→ Why forgiveness may be the ultimate act of courage→ And how you, too, can move through fear by listening to your heart This one will stay with you.More about Julian: Google Leader turned Filmmaker, Advisor & Speaker at Fortune 500 companies and global leadership conferences.Julian has guided top leaders from McKinsey, Google, IBM, YouTube, and many others to make bold decisions, and leave meaningful legacies in an era of unprecedented change.Co-founder of Cor:age, a global impact network, Julian unites CEOs, founders, changemakers, policy leaders, philanthropists, investors, and scientists to ignite meaningful action, foster transformative partnerships, and drive systemic change.Host of Cor:age Docu-series, produced with visionary social entrepreneurs, award-winning filmmakers from Netflix, National Geographic, and the creators of MTV 4REAL

You know that fear that makes your heart race……the one that makes you want to hand the phone to someone else andrun?Marjie Haddad knows it well. At 12 years old, she was terrified to pick up the phoneand call a local councilman for a school assignment.Tears. Drama. Full meltdown.(And a mom who refused to make the call for her.) That single moment changed her forever.It built the courage muscle she’s been using for 40+ years in thePR world. Helping leaders and organizations share their magic with the world.(And having the ability to call whoever she wants, whenever haha) In this episode of One Fear Per Year, wetalk about:• How to stop being so darn critical of yourself• Why visibility is essential  [even when it feels scary]• The Irish proverb that will change how you face obstacles• How to make friends in seconds (even with strangers)If fear has been keeping you quiet, this conversation will hand youthe “key” to walk right out of that prison. 

Fear. Anxiety. Depression.They can sneak into our lives quietly…or slam into us full force—like what happened to Dr. Michael Amster during his medical school exams.(Full-blown panic attack. Heart racing. Mind blank.)That fear led him to a discovery that would change his life and now, the lives of thousands of others. He calls it microdosing awe. Just 15 seconds. Three deep breaths. A moment of noticing something beautiful in the ordinary and your nervous system shifts from fear… to peace.In this episode of the One Fear Per Year podcast, Dr. Amster shares:• How awe rewires your brain and body• The simple A.W.E. Method (you can try it anywhere...even at a stoplight)• Why fear can become your teacher… if you let itThis conversation left me breathing slower, feeling lighter, and honestly more alive.I think I could get used to these microdoses. :D#OneFearPerYear

Rachel Griffith had a breakthrough and wrote a letter to her fear: You my shadowed companion have lingered long within my breath, echoing doubts in chambers of my heart. Drawing maps of limitations where dreams might have dwelled. I see you now, not as my captor, but as the guardian of doors untried. You whispered warnings, not to wound me, yet your trembling voice cannot silence my fire. I thank you for your caution, for the lessons you've woven in my scars, but I will not longer wear your chains as ornaments of safety. I will meet you with an open hand no longer fighting, nor fleeing for I am the storm you feared that I would become: fierce, unapologetic, and free. Stand aside fear, or walk beside me, for my path is carved in courage and I will not abandon my becoming. Rachel story floored me (someone I have known since high school!)She realized that the extra weight she had been carrying wasn’t just from 2020, or from “bad habits.” It was her protection. Her way of holding onto her dad after losing him.And when she finally named that fear—(Saying it out loud, first to herself, then to her husband)—everything shifted.Because fear doesn’t disappear when we ignore it. It loses its grip when we face it. When we thank it for trying to protect us, but tell it:“I don’t need you to keep me safe anymore. I’m ready to live.”Rachel’s breakthrough reminded me: Self-compassion is the first step to any real transformation.And it’s never too late to show that grace to yourself. What fear are you ready to face—and thank—so you can finally step into your becoming?#OneFearPerYear

You don’t have to have it all figured out.(Presence is what unlocks the path forward.) This week on the One Fear Per Year Podcast, I sat downwith Mike Lee—a former NBA skills coach who’sworked with legends like Steph Curry and Joel Embiid,and now a leadership consultant, keynote speaker, and #1best-selling author. But Mike’s story isn’t just about basketball or business.It’s about how he walked through one of the darkest seasons of hislife—a brutal 9-month withdrawal from antidepressants thatleft him battling anxiety, fear, and emptiness for years—and came out the other side with a radicalunderstanding of presence. Today, Mike helps world-class athletes, Fortune 500 executives, andhigh-performing teams tap into this same power—because, as he says, “True performance only happens whenyou’re fully present.” We talk about:➜ How fear shows up for NBA players at the highestlevel.➜ The connection between mindfulness, leadership, andresilience.➜ Why trust—not fear—is the ultimate game-changer. If you’ve ever felt stuck, anxious, or unsure of your next move,this episode is your permission slip to pause, breathe, and step into thepresent moment.

You don’t have to speak perfectly.(You just have to speak truthfully.)When Jen Oliver talks about fear—she doesn’t just talk about the stage. She talks about dating. Divorce. Difficult conversations.Telling someone the truth…even when it hurts.💥Because that’s the real fear, isn’t it? Not the microphone necessarily but the moment where your voice shakes because your truth matters.(And you don’t know how it will be received.)But Jen?She’s been walking through it. One hard conversation at a time.🌀 Reframing fear as energy.🌱 Giving her younger self compassion.💡 Practicing radical honesty—not to control the outcome, but to give the other person the dignity of their own response.And her word? The opposite of fear?WORTH.When you’re rooted in your worth, you don’t need to perform. You just need to be real.🎧 This episode might change how you view fear forever.👇 Listen in. Be moved. Be brave.👋 Follow One Fear Per Year for more human, healing storiesMore about Jen Oliver: She's a speaking coach who helps women speak from a space of authenticity and power – in any situation. Her approach is highly connective, collaborative, and custom to each individual. She teaches how to communicate REAL – in a way that is Relational, Engaging, Authentic, and Life-Altering. Find her at: https://realjenoliver.com/#Vulnerability #PublicSpeaking #Courage #Worth

You are worth the awkward.(Kara said that—and I haven’t stopped thinking about it.) When Kara Haug walked onto the One Fear Per Year podcast,she didn’t tiptoe around the hard stuff.She walked straight into it—with grace, humor, and truth. She talked about growing up in a house shaped by fear.(“We’d go out on a sunny day bike ride and hear, ‘Someonegot stabbed there once!’”)She gets it. She lived it. And then… she broke it. She decided the generational fear stops with her.She signed her kids up for swim lessons before they could form fullsentences. They jump in, splash wildly, and swim free—while she still quietly stands at the edge, healing the childinside who once stood too scared to move. But this isn’t just a story about parenting.  Kara never thought she’d run a business.(“I’m the turtle,” she said. “Slow, steady, lots of processing.”) She never dreamed she’d be a sexualhealth educator with a theology degree and a background in youth ministry.(Yes—those coexist.) ✨ She teaches kids and adults how to talk about sexwithout shame.✨ She creates sacred spaces where people feel safe toask the uncomfortable questions.✨ She reminds people that healing is awkward…but you are worth it. And maybe the bravest part? She’s learning to dance again. Not the way she did in college…But in a new way—shoes on, fear present, heart open. So I’ll leave you with this: 💭 What’s one thing fear is keeping you from—that might actually be the invitation you need? Kara’s definition of the opposite of fear?Invitation.Not comfort. Not certainty.But a quiet pull into the space you’re meant to grow. She’s walking through it.So can we. Tune into this weeks episode! #OneFearPerYearPodcast #OneFearPerYear

I met Brianna Greenspan just hours before this interview…And within minutes, I admired her.💥 She shared something she’d never said publicly before.Not in this way and not this raw.For 17 years, she’s lived with a complex chronic illness.And for most of that time, she stayed quiet about it because the fear of being truly SEEN was louder than her courage to speak.But that’s changed.She told me about a moment—the darkest day of her life—where she questioned whether she even wanted to go on.And then… one question changed everything.A question that sparked her comeback.That reconnected her to life.That became the seed of a book now in the making.📘 She’s co-authoring a follow-up to the original Book of Questions—but this time, for those living with chronic illness.That kind of bravery?It doesn’t come easy.She resisted at first.(I mean, who wants to relive their lowest point?)But her mentor said something that landed deep:🌀 “What if your fear of sharing is the exact thing blocking someone else from healing?”So she said yes.Not because she was ready.But because she knew… someone out there needed to hear it.And I’m just in awe.Of her honesty.Of her strength.Of her willingness to turn pain into purpose.Because like she said—“The opposite of fear… is opportunity.”💡 And every time we tell the truth,we open the door for others to do the same.👋 Follow One Fear Per Year for more stories of courage#ChronicIllnessAwareness #OneFearPerYearMore about Brianna:Brianna Greenspan is an inspirational author, speaker, and CEO of Brianna Greenspan International (BGI), a global leader in educational training, tools, and support focused on fostering a growth mindset and well-being. Born with a complex chronic illness that shaped her journey, Brianna faced immense physical challenges, which inspired her to ask powerful, life-changing questions. These questions became the foundation for her personal transformation, leading her to a calling dedicated to health, wellness, and personal development.

You don’t always have to beat fear.(But you can learn to dance with it.)I sat down with Chris Dyer—author, keynote speaker, leadership expert—to talk about one of life’s most uncomfortable teachers: Fear.Here's what he said:💭 “Fear can be a driver. A protector. A boundary.” When his wife almost died… (yes—almost died) it wasn’t the fear that broke him. It was the fear that moved him. To ask more questions. To research like crazy. To advocate like her life depended on it. Because it did.And then he said this:💬 “Every relationship has a sand timer…But it’s in a bag. We don’t know how much time we have.”So he lives in the moment. Not to fight fear…but to honor it. He reframes a lot of fear positively. To let it remind him what matters.He also shared something that made me smile:🧠 “When I was younger, I’d sit in a room full of 40-year-olds,thinking they’d laugh at me…not realizing I was a bargain—hungry, driven, and ready to show up. For half the price!"Sometimes fear tells us we’re not ready. But maybe… just maybe…Fear is proof that we are. That we care enough to show up. That we’re growing into the person we’re meant to become. Chris reminded me: The opposite of fear isn’t bravery.(It’s calm.)It’s that deep, centered presence that helps us be here while we’re here.So I’ll ask you:💡 What fear are you facing right now that might be asking you to prepare, not retreat?It's asking you to show up.Speak up .And live fully—while the sand is still falling.👋 Follow One Fear Per Year for more conversations like this.More about Chris: Chris Dyer is a culture builder disguised as a serial entrepreneur, CEO, and consultant. His companies were named a Best Place to Work 15 times and featured on Inc. Magazine’s list of fastest-growing companies five times.Named the #1 Leadership Speaker on Culture by Inc. Magazine, Chris also pioneered a radical approach to meetings that gives people time and energy back. He’s written bestselling books, hosted a globally ranked leadership podcast, and driven transformation that lasts. https://chrisdyer.com/#OneFearPerYear #Leadership #FearAsFuel #ChrisDyer #PersonalGrowth

You’re not too young.You’re not too late.You’re just scared.(And that’s okay.)When I asked Genesis Pirolo about fear, she said:🫣 “I still shake in my heels before I go on stage.”But then she said something IMPORTANT.💥 “My passion is bigger than my fear.”Genesis was 18 when she gave her first speech—in front of her high school. And she almost didn’t do it. She was terrified. But she took a breath.(Then another.)And gave it her all.Now?She helps other students do the same. But it wasn’t just that speech. She told me a story about being 21, shaking in her boots again…when a two-time Olympic gold medalist walked into the room.Everyone froze. She almost did too.But instead? She asked for five minutes of her time.(Just five.)That five minutes turned into a mentorship.A client.A friend.A legacy.And that’s what this whole episode is about—✨ Walking through fear.✨ Making the introduction.✨ Serving with no expectation.✨ And letting faith be your confidence.Genesis didn’t wait until she “felt ready.” She took the next right step—scared and shaking—and changed the entire direction of her life.📣 What’s the five-minute conversation you’ve been avoiding? Because your never know what might be on the other side of that convo.👋 Follow The Transformational College Experience for more leadership content#FearlessLeadership #OneFearPerYear #StudentSuccess #BoldMoves #NextGenLeaders

💭 “I thought I was a failure,” Sid McNairy told me.  Not because he hadn’t done enough… But because even after receiving the World Peace Award—he still didn’t feel like it was enough. Not until his wife asked:  “What’s your greatestaccomplishment?” And Sid answered: “Me. I am.” After a long mental journey to get there. His accomplishments are vast: He’s coached college football.Taught yoga at the White House.Spoken to NFL & NBA athletes and Fortune 500 execs.Written 10+ books.And yet… The fear of not being enough still whisperedbehind it all. But Sid didn’t run from that voice. He listened. 🧘‍♂️ He meditated.🗣️ He questioned his own thoughts.🫶 And he practiced surrender. (Which, let’s be honest—is waaaaay harder than it sounds.) He lost his sight twice.Walked through deep physical and emotional valleys.But every time, he came back stronger.More centered.More peaceful. Because peace isn’t passive.It’s a choice. A practice. 🧠 “Fear is an illusion,” he told me.🌀 “It’s the barrier around what you think youknow.Step through it—and something new is waiting.” This conversation was full of wisdom.Here’s what stuck with me most: 🔹 Your thoughts are not always facts.🔹 The goal isn’t to look good—it’s to be real.🔹 Peace isn’t the absence of fear. It’s what we build in spite of it. So today, ask yourself: What would change if you stopped chasing “good enough”…And just decided—you already are? #OneFearPerYear #Leadership #OvercomingFear #InnerPeace#PersonalGrowth

“That thumping in your chest?It’s not your heart. It’s your dreams.”When Ray told me this story, I got chills.He was the shyest kid in class. (Hid in a bucket in 3rd grade so he didn’t have to talk to anyone… literally.)He had one friend for years. He didn’t speak up. Didn’t shine. Just… disappeared into the background.But then—Mr. Huber showed up. His 5th grade teacher. The kind of teacher who doesn’t just teach…He sees you.👀 Really sees you.“Ray, I know your secret. And it’s safe with me.”He made Ray the head writer behind the class clown. He told other kids, “Ray’s funny.” He gave him a role in the school play.But the night before the show? Ray panicked. 😰He told Mr. Huber, “I think I’ll be sick tomorrow.”And that’s when Mr. Huber said those unforgettable words:💡 “That thumping in your chest?It’s not your heart. It’s your dreams.”So Ray showed up. He forgot his lines. He stood frozen in front of 217 strangers. Then he bowed…Made something up…And the audience went wild.🔥 “You didn’t freeze,” Mr. Huber told him. “Now you’re free.” That moment changed his life. He went on to become a stand-up comic.Made a living on stage. Learned the power of humor to turn fear into freedom.🎭 And now? He teaches others how to lead with laughter—Because when you laugh? Fear disappears. Even if just for a moment.Here’s what I’ll never forget from Ray:🧠 Ask: “Is this a thought… or a fact?”💬 Be careful how you speak to yourself.😅 And remember—one laugh can clear a sky full of clouds.So here’s your reminder today:Fear doesn’t mean stop. It might just mean…You’re standing on the edge of your dream.🚪Walk through it.Who was your “Mr. Huber”? Or better yet—Who can you be that for today?#OneFearPerYear #Storytelling #OvercomingFear #HumorHeals #PersonalGrowth #BraveNotPerfect

“Every day is a fear fest.”Meet Louis Katz—former IT business owner turned keynote speaker, courage coach, and Chief Courage Catalyst at The Courage Inside.After 22 years running a successful tech company, Louis did the unthinkable:He sold it all… to pursue his real calling—helping others lead with courage, live with resilience, and step out of their comfort zones (with a laugh along the way).In this episode, we talk about:💬 Fear of starting over💬 Fear of being seen as a beginner💬 Fear of being funny and taken seriously💬 How to show up before you feel ready💬 And why jumping out of an airplane might be his 2024 fear to face 😅But don’t let the jokes fool you—Louis brings real insight to the fear conversation. His message is clear: Courage doesn’t always look heroic. Sometimes it looks like sending a cold DM, starting a business in your 50s, or simply admitting you’re scared.🔥 “You don’t have to saw your arm off to prove you’re brave. Sometimes courage is just sending the email.”If you’ve been thinking about making a bold move—or even a small one—this is your sign.🌐 Learn more: thecourageinside.com#OneFearPerYear #LouisKatz #KeynoteSpeaker #TheCourageInside #PublicSpeaking

“You don’t have to walk through fear… if you catch the thought early enough, maybe you don’t even have to feel it.” This episode is for the high achievers, the performers, the ones who seem “fearless” on stage.Scott Bloom has hosted events for Pfizer, FedEx, Verizon, IBM—you name it. He’s not just a comedic keynote speaker and emcee with 30+ years of experience… he’s the go-to guy for Fortune 500 brands who want connection, levity, and laughter that lands.But what happens when the audience disappears?When 2020 hit, Scott was forced to reinvent himself—from live stages to a laptop screen. What followed wasn’t just technical overwhelm—it was full-blown fear.💬 Panic attacks.💬 Insomnia.💬 Imposter syndrome.💬 Fear of never being hired again.In this raw and honest conversation, Scott shares:➡️ Why his biggest fear wasn’t the loss of gigs—but losing his confidence➡️ How he rebuilt himself through yoga, meditation, therapy, and one small step at a time➡️ His advice for handling “monkey mind” and negative self-talk➡️ The surprising thing he’s afraid of this year (💔)This one’s for the performers. The givers. The ones who hold it together until the unexpected blind sides them.🎧 Listen and enjoy this brilliant episode!🔗 Connect with Scott: https://www.scottbloomconnects.com/#OneFearPerYear #Podcast #ScottBloom #Fear #Mindset #KeynoteSpeaker

💬 I sat down with Carla Johnson for this episode—and wow. She inspired me with her stories of facing fear head on. ✨We dove right in:I asked her, “What’s been your relationship with fear?”Carla shared how a defining moment came when her father battled cancer. Before he passed, he told her:“Don’t live with regrets.”That simple advice shifted everything.Instead of letting fear drive her life, she learned to move it to the backseat.(Still there, just not steering.)🌍 She and her husband made bold choices—like quitting their jobs to backpack around South America for a year.They faced scary moments (like narrowly missing an armed robbery in Ecuador) but lived with more gratitude and presence because of it.Carla said it best:“You don’t face fear sitting on your couch.”Movement is always the answer.When you feel stuck, the couch will call your name.But growth? Life? They live outside your comfort zone.💬 Carla’s advice for anyone stuck in fear:➜ Jump forward in your mind. Picture yourself 10 years from now.➜ Would you regret not trying?➜ Make a list—not of what could go wrong—but of everything that could go right.And start small:➜ Strike up a real conversation with a stranger.➜ Look someone in the eyes and genuinely ask how they’re doing.➜ Take one tiny step outside your bubble today.Every step builds your “courage muscle.” 💪When I asked Carla the opposite of fear, she said:Curiosity.Because you can’t be afraid and curious at the same time.🌟 Recently, she faced a new fear: climbing Mount Fuji.She felt the doubts creep in—what if I’m not strong enough?But she moved anyway.And because she said yes to fear, she stood above the clouds, watching the sunrise over the world.If you take anything from this episode, let it be this:Move while you’re scared.Live with no regrets.One foot in front of the other.Thank you, Carla, for reminding us:A bold life is built choice by choice, step by step, beyond the walls fear tries to build.💭#OneFearPerYearMore about Carla:As the world’s leading Innovation Architect, Carla Johnson’s been breaking the status quo all her life. In 20 years of working with leaders, she’s learned that the safest bet is often the riskiest move. Through years of research and authoring numerous best-selling books, she’s developed frameworks and processes that teach people how to redefine what innovation means in their company, and then equips teams to make innovation everybody’s business.Find her at https://www.carlajohnson.co/

Have you ever meet someone on Zoom…and then seen them in real life and think—Wait… you’re real?!That was Pasha Marlowe for me.A face I’d seen through the screen,a voice that challenged me to do something outrageous:🎤 Stand-up comedy…One of the fears I've faced that I get asked about the most!And Pasha?She didn’t just help me get through it—she helped me look at my emotional pain in a different way, through a unique lens using HUMOR.She didn’t tell me “how to tell a joke.”She showed me how to turn trauma into a message.Pain into punchlines.Grief into something that could make the room laugh—and maybe even heal.That’s what made her program so powerful.Not the jokes.But the fact that it allowed me to look at painful events in a different way. To reframe experiences in a way that empowers!What pain are you still scared to put a mic to?And what would it look like to step into it? More about Pasha:She is a Neurodiversity Speaker, Consultant, and Coach.* 30+ years-professional experience as a therapist, relationship coach, and consultant.* 5+ years-global DEIAB speaker/trainer for organizations and universities who want to create culture transformation through the lens of neurodiversity, accessibility, and inclusion.* Lived experience as a multiply-neurodivergent person and mother of 3 ND adult children. Learn more about her and her services: https://www.pashamarlowe.com/#OneFearPerYear

I recently sat down with yoga teacher and radiant soul, Cara Tracy, and she said something that’s still echoing in my head: “The opposite of fear isn’t calm. It’s action.”Cara shared how fear has followed her for most of her life—from the little things (podcasts, public speaking) to the deeper fears of saying the wrong thing or not being good enough.But here’s what makes her story so powerful:🌀 She felt it all—and still showed up.🌀 She became a yoga teacher despite fear of speaking.🌀 She’s now publishing a guided joy journal that’s been years in the making.And when asked what helped her start?She said:➤ Letting go of perfection➤ Over-preparing less, trusting more➤ Remembering that her audience didn’t need perfect—they needed presenceSo, if you’re waiting to be “ready”… let this be your reminder:💡 You don’t need to crush the fear.You just need to move one step forward.(Cara, you’re a light. Thank you for reminding us that courage isn’t loud—it’s consistent.)#onefearperyear More about Cara Tracy:Some people chase joy. Cara creates it—the kind that’s purposeful, present, and passed around like sunshine on a cloudy day.Cara is part speaker strategist, part yogi, and soon, the inspired author of Joy 365: The Journal. She lives by her mantra: choose joy daily, share it freely, and be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people. With over 30 years in the meetings and events industry, Cara is the Exclusive Talent Strategist at BigSpeak Speakers Bureau, where she works closely with their roster of exclusive speakers to support their growth, visibility, and long-term success.She discovered Kundalini Yoga as a way to manage stress and quickly fell in love with its transformative power. Now a certified teacher, she shares simple, grounding practices that help others find calm, clarity, and balance in their daily livesLater this year Cara will launch Joy 365: The Journal, a guided journey to help others discover joy in everyday moments—from a mid-afternoon coffee break to nature walks to spontaneous acts of kindness. The journal is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and celebrate life’s small wonders. In her free time, Cara can be found painting kindness rocks, hiking Arizona’s desert trails, or spending time with her husband of 35 years, Paul. Whether she’s making a new friend at barre class or leading a breathwork session for her coworkers, Cara’s mission is the same: to help people feel seen, supported, and joyful. Follow her on Instagram @azjoyfinder or visit her website at joy365journal.com to learn more.

You don’t always need confidence.(Sometimes you just need five minutes of courage.)When Dr. Carolyn told me this, I felt it in my bones.She created a simple yet life-changing method called B.F.F.—Breathe. Focus. Fierce action.It was born out of survival.She stood in line at the Salvation Army, terrified.Not knowing what was next.Knowing only one thing: She couldn’t go back.So she looked at the clock and whispered:“Okay… just five minutes. I can do five.”That decision?Led to food.Then shelter.Then school.Then a career.Then speaking on stages like the United Nations.Then helping 65 women launch businesses.Dr. Carolyn didn’t erase fear.She befriended it.Her word for the opposite of fear?Courage.And she reminds us:“Sometimes you have to borrow the light someone sees in you… until your own light ignites.”So if you’re frozen right now—by life, by the unknown, by what’s next—Take a breath.Focus.Move forward for five minutes.(That’s it.)#onefearperyear More about Dr. Carolyn Colleen:🔹 Award-Winning Author | International Speaker | Executive Leader | HumanitarianShe helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations turn adversity into opportunity—5 minutes at a time.As the founder of the FIERCE Foundation and FIERCE Network, her mission is to empower underrepresented women and children worldwide to achieve generational self-sufficiency through education, access, and community.She's also the owner of Acton Academy Midwest, a private STEM entrepreneurial school that fosters real-world learning, critical thinking, and servant leadership.https://carolyncolleen.com/

Ryan Estis—entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and someone who knows a thing or two about turning fear into fuel--dives deep in this episode. Get ready to take notes, because we covered:➜ Fear of Failure (and how it keeps us stuck in the “safe zone”)➜ Limiting Beliefs (a.k.a. the false stories we tell ourselves when we’re scared)➜ The reality that change can be terrifying—but still worth every step.➜ Why “the pain of staying the same” can eventually outweigh “the fear of the unknown.”(And guess what? We talk about that heart-stopping moment when you realize you want more out of life—whether it’s switching careers, launching a business, or finding your authentic voice after a major life shift.)Favorite takeaway: The opposite of fear? Love. Because where fear shrinks us, love expands us—letting us bet on ourselves, even when we don’t have a crystal ball.Ryan also gave us the best reminder: Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Stretch that “courage muscle” every day. Because every “What if I fail?” has a bolder twin: “What if I never try?”If you’re looking for a sign to break free and chase what lights you up—THIS. IS. IT.What’s one fear you’re ready to face head-on, starting today?(Spoiler alert: your biggest breakthroughs might be waiting on the other side of that “impossible” leap.)#onefearperyearMore about Ryan:Ryan’s work as one of the top inspirational sales speakers empowers individuals and organizations to leverage change as a catalyst for growth by embracing a human-centered approach to sales, leadership and life. A former Fortune 500 Chief Revenue Officer, he now serves as a globally recognized sales and leadership expert, bestselling author and entrepreneur. https://go.ryanestis.com/

You don’t have to have it all figured out.(Clarity comes from movement, not waiting.)⚡Amazing Soul survived 20 years of chronic pain—then flipped the script with one powerful mantra:FEAR = Feel Everything And Relax.We explore:➜ Letting fear be a teacher instead of a stop sign.➜ Dropping the victim mindset and owning your story.➜ Slowing down enough to hear what your body’s been trying to tell you.➜ Finding the courage to do one uncomfortable thing (every day!).(And yep, there were tears, breakthroughs, and plenty of “aha!” moments. 😆)Curious? Tune in to the One Fear per Year podcast, get inspired, and remember—every master was once a beginner who looked a little foolish at first.#onefearperyearMore about Amazing Soul and her Mind FCK Company:It all started with a realization: After 20 years of battling chronic pain, fighting inner struggles, and living under the weight of perfection, Amazing Soul knew something had to change.Life wasn’t meant to be this hard, and it certainly wasn’t meant to feel like a constant mental battle.The turning point? Realizing that the real issue wasn’t the outside world but the beliefs, emotions, and limitations buried deep within. And so, The Mind F.C.K. was born.But this isn’t just another brand – it’s a movement.The Mind F.C.K. Co. stands for “Fun, Compassion, Kindness,” three simple yet powerful pillars that transformed The Amazing Soul’s life.It’s a mindset shift, a way to break free from the mental clutter and embrace who you are, flaws and all.The vision? To empower women all over the world to step into their greatness, lead with confidence, and ditch the limiting beliefs that hold them back.Find her at www.themindfckco.com

😨 FEAR: Will I have enough? Am I enough? Frankie Russo has built and sold companies.📈 60X growth.🏆 Inc. 500 — 8 years in a row.📚 2 bestselling books.👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A family man with six kids. But that kind of success doesn’t silence fear. It amplifies it. In this raw episode of One Fear Per Year, Frankie opens up about a moment that would break most people…“I lost my whole business… my first business blew up.” “The fear of financial insecurity drove me through my 20s —and drove me into the ground.”“I worked myself into a state of burnout.” This is the moment many leaders hit a wall.But Frankie used it as a door. What changed?➡️ He got honest with himself.➡️ He got clear on what mattered.➡️ And he committed to leading with authenticity,imagination, and generosity. The truth is:Even the most successful people feel fear.The difference is… they face it. 🎧 You’ll walk away from this episode not justinspired — but equipped. To love your weird.To stop pretending.To lead with your whole self — especially wheneverything is uncertain. Frankie doesn’t just talk about transformation. He’s lived it.And now, he shares the blueprint for thriving when fear is loudest.

In this soul-nourishing conversation, Megan Walrod opens up about her journey of walking through fear — a journey that led her all the way to Bali. She talks about shedding her possessions, embracing the unknown, and facing the deep fear of ending up alone or destitute. Instead of running from fear, she leaned into trust — trust in herself and in the guidance of something greater.We talked about how courage doesn’t show up before we act — it grows through our actions. From driving motorbikes in Thailand to navigating painful relationships, both of us shared how stepping outside our comfort zones has been the gateway to freedom, self-discovery, and deep transformation.Megan also gave us a peek into her creative world — her upcoming novel and coaching program are rooted in the same message: live your yes, face your fears, and find the magic on the other side. This was a heart-expanding, real-deal convo about bravery, messy action, and creating a life that feels truly aligned.More about Megan: As a Women's Empowerment Coach, she supports women to “author their lives” and create audacious, authentic lives that light them up.Her personal journey inspired the “Live Your Yes” philosophy, which comes from her deep knowing that when women become the creators of their lives and prioritize their joy, they become more magnetic and create greater success and fulfillment in all areas of their lives.Her new novel is available for pre-orders! It's Always Been Me is so much more than an entertaining read. It’s an empowering novel about how often we as modern women are torn between the pressures of cultural convention and our desire to follow our hearts. It also serves as a roadmap for how, even in the direst of circumstances, we can reclaim our power and get on track with our dreams.Find Megan at: www.meganwalrod.com

Fear has never stopped me from doing something… except when it has....walked up to the edge of an Olympic diving board and not jumped.Matt and I have both had moments where fear won. And yet, every time I’ve actually pushed through—whether it was stepping on stage, making a life-changing decision, or just doing something that made me uncomfortable—I’ve never regretted it.Fear might feel like a stop sign, but most of the time, it’s just a suggestion.• We fear the worst-case scenario (that rarely happens).• We fear what people might think (they won’t think about it at all).• We fear failure (when, in reality, not trying is the only true failure).You don’t have to be fearless to push through fear. You just have to be courageous enough to act despite it.Matt Havens is an international keynote speaker, former corporate leader, son of a comedian, and firm believer we overcomplicate work by overthinking the solutions. Matt’s high-energy, engaging presentations deliver insightful, actionable strategies – all with a surprisingly entertaining twist.As the son of a headlining comedian, Matt grew up in the back room of comedy clubs around the world, where he witnessed the infectious impact of laughter. He believes business growth and fun don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Find out more about Matt at www.matthavens.com

Nobody warns you about this part of chasing big goals.Not the productivity gurus.Not the motivational speakers.Not even your well-meaning friends.It’s the gut-punch fear that shows up right before you take action.• That moment before you hit “publish” on a bold idea.• The silence before you walk onto a stage.• The terrifying realization that people might not just dislike your work—they might actually talk about howmuch they dislike it.That fear isn’t just annoying. It can be paralyzing.And the worst part? It creates a whole alternate reality where everything you do is a disaster before it even begins.Nobody will read it.Nobody will care.Nobody will show up.Sound familiar?Here’s the kicker: Fear only exists in the waiting.Once you start moving, it fades.• The roller coaster is scariest when you’re in line, not when you’re flying down the tracks.• The book launch is terrifying before the doors open, not when the room is packed.• The speech is unbearable in the first three minutes, then suddenly, you’re in the zone.Action is the antidote.Not overthinking. Not waiting for “the right time.” Not perfecting it to death.Just doing the thing.So if you’ve been stuck, trapped in that parallel fear-world where your worst-case scenario plays on repeat—what’s one small action you can take today to break the cycle?Because the only wayout… is through.More about Patricia Bathory:Patricia is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive in today's interconnected world.She helps build connected cultures in the workplace through:• Impactful keynote speeches• Interactive workshops• Personalized individual sessions• Helping you get started on your journey with her book, 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅: 𝑩𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝑺𝒖𝒄𝒄𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝑳𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕She offers a holistic approach to personal and professional growth, drawing from her private psychotherapy practice, leadership insights, and the transformative power of connection.

I sat down with Kevin Joyce for a conversation that took a turn I wasn’t expecting.We started with fear. How it creeps in. How it shapes our decisions.How it convinces us we’re not good enough.But what Kevin said next hit me right in the gut:“The opposite of fear isn’t courage. It’s flourishing.”Definitely a unique answer I wasn’t expecting…Not pushing through.Not fighting harder.Not just “getting over it.”But flourishing—stepping into who we are, embracing fear as part of the journey, and using it to fuel growth.We covered:• The real reason we fear not being good enough (and how to rewire it)• Why imposter syndrome doesn’t go away— and why that’s actually a good thing• How fear shifts when you make your work about service, not self• The neuroscience behind stress responses (and how to hack them)And a whole lot more.If you’ve ever felt like fear is holding you back—or worse, that it’s a sign you’re not ready—this conversation will change the way you see it.More about Kevin:Kevin is Producing Director of EnJoy and oversees EnJoy’s unique approach to auctions, meetings and communication training. He is an actor, musician, auctioneer, facilitator and trainer, as well as a student of religion, comedy and neuroscience. Known for his humor, improvisation, original music and characters, Kevin brings EnJoy’s unique event hosting approach to life in collaboration with partner Martha Enson.Kevin has hosted hundreds of events for corporations and associations, and auctioneered for over 500 regional and national non-profits, in the process becoming one of the most popular and sought-after fundraising hosts in the Pacific Northwest. Find him at www.en-joyproductions.com🎙️ #OneFearPerYear

Meet Tanisha! A powerhouse of talent and expertise. As a teenage mom, she worked hard to becomes a successful business owner and she still has BIG plans and dreams. She has years of experience as an HR Consultant shaping people, strategies and business solutions. As a Keynote Speaker, she brings energy, insight, and inspiration to audiences around the world. A passionate Global Traveler, Tanisha is always on a quest for growth and new perspectives, and as a proud Momma Bear, she balances it all with grace. She is the Host of her own video and podcast series where she promotes that we are all Too Skilled To Fail.We talk about fear, change, imposter syndrome, and how Tanisha keeps herself on track. Don't miss hearing from this incredible woman!

I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with "Hover to Fly" Chris Wilson! We talk about his fear of the ocean, and sharks in particular, and how he eventually faced his fear and truly looked it right in the eyeballs!After leading a successful 14-year career in aviation as a Commercial Helicopter Pilot and Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, Chris flew into business to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.He's the founder of Mentee, 2 x author, keynote/TEDx speaker, and CTI coach. Today, he's on a mission to help the next generation impact the world through his Hover to Fly framework by setting the course, starting with yes, taking the controls, and navigating forward.

"Show my your greatest fear, and I'll show you what your next task is." I loved this quote that Micah used during his interview! He took it seriously too. After his divorce, he decided to sit with the pain of having an anxious attachment style and his reliance of getting validation from others. He traveled around the U.S. in his van for one year and then went to East Asia for another year. Micah knows and shares all about personal growth and self-discovery. After 2 years of hard work and learning and frustration and more hard work, he's finally been awarded his first utility patent with the US Patent for a consumer electronic IoT product that will make big waves in the health & wellness market, by leveraging breathwork to mitigate stress and anxiety for mental and physical health benefits. I loved this interview SO much! To connect with Micah: Personal Insta - https://www.instagram.com/haveyoumetmicahyet LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/micahkearns/ ILU Innovations Insta - https://www.instagram.com/iluinnovations ILU Innovations website - https://iluinnovations.com

Kim dives into the fear of not belonging and the fear of not being good enough and tells us what she did to walk through those fears. I loved having Kim on the show since she has navigated a multilayered career as a thought leader, SPEAKER, lawyer, professor, AUTHOR, and competitive Latin dancer. She gets unruly — in a strategic, effective way — and has learned how to challenge the system in a manner that actually evolves opportunities to help teams grow, harnesses unique gifts across disciplines, and reveals authenticity they might not have found otherwise. Connect with her at www.kimbolourtchi.com

Jeff shares what helped him deal with fear as a top performing athlete. It's simpler than you might think.. Jeff Salzenstein is a professional speaker, performance coach, world class athlete, and seasoned entrepreneur. As a top 100 tennis player, he's no stranger to the impacts of pressure and stress — and he's done deep inner work on himself to better understand how high achievers sabotage their performance and health. Now, he shares that inner work as a professional speaker and performance coach to help high achievers and their workplaces manage the never-ending pressure of today’s world. Using a heart-centered, holistic approach, he inspires and coaches people to find fulfillment, reach peak performance, regulate their emotions, and, in turn, find their zone of excellence. www.jeffsalzenstein.com