The Circle of the Panda Podcast

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this closing episode of Circle of the Panda, JD talks with Barrett Counterman, host of the Swaggy Life Podcast, about living with cerebral palsy, honest prayer, and finding purpose when life is slow and hard. Barrett shares how he’s rebranding his show around disability, faith, and everyday struggles, and why choosing vulnerability and perseverance can turn even discouraging seasons into a full-circle story of hope.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this third and final conversation with Athena Dean Holtz, the discussion explores why healing, trust, and spiritual growth are a lifelong journey rather than a quick fix. Athena shares how pain, betrayal, and unmet expectations can become places where deeper healing happens, and why suffering does not mean God has abandoned us.The episode also reflects on the importance of honesty in faith, making space for weakness, and learning to pause and ask God what to do next in the middle of hard seasons. Athena closes by pointing listeners back to the truth that God is faithful, present, and able to bring good even out of deep hurt.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this second episode of a three-part series, Athena Dean Holtz shares profound insights on trust, forgiveness, and healing. The conversation explores why trusting God remains difficult even after witnessing His faithfulness, drawing parallels to the Israelites who doubted despite seeing the Red Sea part.Key TopicsMiraculous Provision: Athena recounts facing a $400 phone bill with no funds when a Vietnam veteran—himself struggling financially—knocked on her door after God told him to empty his savings account. The amount was exactly what they needed.Misused Scripture: The episode addresses how prosperity gospel twists Biblical verses, particularly explaining that the "give and it will be given to you" passage is about forgiveness, not financial prosperity.Taking Responsibility: Athena shares how she asked herself "What was my part in this tragedy?" after being deceived by a false shepherd who stole everything from her. This led to recognizing three critical failures: ignoring God's prompting to seek healing for PTSD, not learning to study Scripture in context, and dismissing red flags because she didn't trust God to provide another way.Healing Through Service: A beautiful thread emerges about caring for her dying mother during her final four months—transforming a broken, critical relationship into sacred moments of healing and reconciliation.The episode concludes with a powerful truth: "He sees, he loves, and he heals," emphasizing that trust and healing are inseparable.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this opening conversation of a three-part series, host JD sits back down with Athena Dean Holtz, founder and publisher of Redemption Press, to talk about her powerful memoir, Full Circle: Coming Home to the Faithfulness of God. JD shares how he read the book in a single 24-hour period—falling asleep and waking up with Athena’s story—because it spoke so personally to his own journey, and he wanted that same impact for listeners.Athena opens up about why she finally wrote the book after years of horrific spiritual abuse, and how a close friend served as her ghostwriter, helping her weave together past radio shows, TV interviews, blogs, and personal memories into a true page-turner. She explains how that writing process became another layer of healing, forcing her to stop escaping into work and instead face deep pain she had long avoided.The conversation goes straight into the hard stuff: early childhood sexual abuse, a forced abortion as a teenager, domestic violence, and the lingering effects of unprocessed trauma. Drawing on her experience working with Vietnam veterans and their families in the late 1980s, Athena describes how trauma shapes the brain, how triggers pull us back into fight-or-flight, and why our brains often cannot distinguish between real and perceived threats.JD and Athena also wrestle with the vulnerability that comes from a genuine hunger for God, and how the enemy can exploit that longing through lies and spiritual abuse. They talk about the “gullibility of Christians,” exploring how predatory pastors and influencers can weaponize Scripture, preach feel-good “no suffering” messages, and leave people questioning whether they can trust God at all.Speaking directly to listeners who are carrying their own unresolved pain and crying out for healing, Athena urges them not to walk this road alone. She highlights the importance of finding truly safe, biblically grounded people who will lovingly point out blind spots, as well as the value of professional, Christ-centered counseling and small-group communities. Athena closes by sharing one of her ongoing prayers from the Psalms—asking God to help her not lie to herself—so she won’t stay isolated and controlled by old wounds.This episode sets the stage for part two, where JD and Athena will dive deeper into the crucial topic of trust after spiritual and emotional betrayal.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this heartwarming episode of the Circle of the Panda podcast, JD talks with long‑time friend and dog groomer Marilyn Doss about how following her love for dogs led her out of an unfulfilling office career and into work that gives her deep joy and purpose. Marilyn shares how grooming became her calling, why she prefers working with dogs over “people with attitudes,” and how she gives back by grooming shelter and rescue dogs for free as they transition into new homes.She tells the moving story of a neglected long‑haired dachshund who became the dog of her life, what it was like to lose him, and why the bond between people and dogs can feel as strong as family. Through stories of homeless individuals who feed their dogs before themselves and of matching rescued dogs with grieving owners, Marilyn paints a picture of dogs as companions, healers, and “God’s gift to humanity” who remind us what unconditional love looks like.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode of the Circle of the Panda podcast, JD sits down with Gentry Hamrick and Michelle Cates, the co‑founders of Endee Coaching Collective, a neurodivergent‑led coaching business serving ADHD and autistic clients and their families. They discuss why traditional therapy alone often isn’t enough, how “in‑the‑moment” situational coaching and body‑doubling can turn everyday challenges—like cleaning a room or getting through a grocery store—into manageable wins, and why working with someone’s brain instead of against it changes everything.You’ll hear how Gentry’s lifelong ADHD experience and clinical background led to a new business model where clients choose coaches who share similar lived experience, and can even work with more than one coach to cover different needs like daily life skills, micro‑enterprise, job coaching, or athlete‑focused support. They also explain how Endee wraps around the whole family, offers fully virtual global services, and creates a genuinely safe, non‑masking space built on the belief that “your brain is not the problem—we just need better elevators, not more stairs.”

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceShawn returns for his third and final appearance on the Circle of the Panda podcast to share what comes after transformation—how he’s intentionally building his next chapter after prison through faith, service, and entrepreneurship.In this episode, Shawn explains how his story has moved from “I went through all this, but…” to “I went through all this, and here’s what I’m doing now,” emphasizing growth, ownership, and forward motion. He talks about honestly assessing what he’s done well and not so well, then using those lessons to shape a purposeful life going forward.While incarcerated, Shawn wrote multiple books, including Saving Souls (youth mentorship and keeping kids out of gangs and prison), Credit to Freedom (beginner financial literacy and credit building), Rise Above (motivational speeches, poems, and quotes), In God’s Presence (prayers, spiritual poems, and scriptures with life application), and Broke into Breakthrough on men’s mental health with his “knit brothers” Charles and Sine. All of his books are available on Amazon under the name Shawn Robert Johnson, and he also shares his content across social platforms under the handle “ShawJohn1222.”Now home, Shawn is pursuing three lanes at once—public speaking, preaching, and an apparel company he co-founded with his wife called Saving Souls (SNS Synergy)—refusing to narrow his calling to one lane when he believes he’s been blessed to do multiple things. He shares a powerful sermon theme, “God Rescue Me,” drawn from 2 Kings 6:8–14, and offers business advice rooted in faith, consistency, and persistence: what you plant is what you will harvest, many people quit too early, and what we often call “failure” is really just learning ways that don’t work yet.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceHow do you stay motivated when you might still have decades left behind bars?In Part 2 of my conversation with Shawn Johnson, we go straight to the heart of what kept him moving forward while facing a 60-year sentence. Shawn shares how his relationship with God became the foundation for endurance, how he learned to pray with honesty (not performance), and why being “used” by God mattered as much as being set free.We talk about praying through disappointment, what it means to be “ready” for the next chapter, and how encouragement often comes from realizing your gifts can strengthen someone else—even in the darkest environment.This episode is for anyone who feels stuck, exhausted, or like the timeline isn’t moving. Shawn’s message is simple and powerful: it’s not about being perfect—it’s about staying faithful. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this powerful episode, JD reconnects with Shawn Johnson, a man he first interviewed while Shawn was still incarcerated and serving what was effectively a life sentence. Nearly two years later, Shawn is home—his entire sentence commuted through executive clemency.Shawn shares the extraordinary journey that led to his release: the reality of being sentenced to 60 years for a self-defense case, the long road of incarceration, and the unexpected opportunity created by New Jersey’s clemency process. He opens up about the discipline of praying every night at the same time with a small group of men inside the prison, the unwavering expectation that God would answer, and the transformation that happened along the way.This conversation goes deeper than a legal victory. Shawn talks about choosing to grow instead of giving up, helping change the culture inside a maximum-security prison through faith, leadership, and service, and how one committed group of men can shift an entire environment.This episode kicks off a multi-part series catching up with Shawn and exploring what life looks like after freedom, faith under pressure, and the power of consistency, community, and hope when the odds are stacked against you.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode, JD sits down with Colonel Tom Kelly, a retired U.S. Army officer with over 30 years of service who found an unexpected second calling as a professional dog trainer. After transitioning out of the military, Colonel Kelly turned a growing interest in canine behavior into a purpose-driven business, Contented Canines.The conversation explores leadership, transition, and purpose—drawing powerful parallels between military experience, human growth, and dog training. Colonel Kelly shares how relationship-based training focuses on trust, relevance, and communication rather than control, and why understanding a dog’s nature is essential for helping dogs and humans live better lives together.Listeners will hear insights on finding your “why” after major life transitions, the importance of structure and calm leadership, and how modern society has unintentionally created challenges for both dogs and people. This episode is thoughtful, practical, and grounded in real-world experience, offering lessons that extend far beyond dog training.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this powerful and deeply honest conversation, JD sits down with Athena Dean Holtz, founder of Redemption Press and author of eight nonfiction books, to explore what it truly means to guard your heart in a world full of competing voices.Athena draws from her personal journey out of New Age spirituality and years of experience in Christian leadership to unpack how subtle deception, unresolved wounds, and spiritual counterfeits can quietly influence our decisions, relationships, and faith. Together, JD and Athena discuss discernment, suffering, surrender, and why Scripture—read in proper context—must be the plumb line for every believer.This episode tackles hard but necessary topics, including:How unhealed wounds make us vulnerable to the wrong voicesThe difference between surrendering to God and simply giving upWhy suffering is often essential to spiritual maturityFiltering spiritual input through Scripture, not emotion or experienceGenerational patterns, responsibility, and personal accountabilityLeadership, emotional health, and spiritual warfare in everyday lifeIf you’ve ever struggled to discern God’s voice, felt overwhelmed in a season of suffering, or sensed the need to recalibrate what you allow into your heart, this conversation will challenge and steady you.🎧 Listen in and be reminded: guarding your heart isn’t optional—it’s essential.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceJD Ross concluded the Fight the Good Fight podcast series (Episode 12). Key themes included:Spiritual warfare as a daily battle that requires discipline and consistency.Reliance on God’s word, spirit, and promises as equipment for victory.Biblical references: 2 Timothy 4:7 (“fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith”) and Romans 12:2 (“be transformed by the renewing of your mind”).Encouragement for listeners to stay strong in their spiritual journeys.Practical applications:Regularly review lessons learned.Stay accountable with others.Walk daily in the armor of God.Keep eyes on Christ for spiritual growth and victory.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Circle of the Panda, JD Ross unpacks the power of worship as a weapon in spiritual battles. Drawing from Psalm 22:3, Acts 16:25, and Psalm 28:7, JD explains how worship shifts our focus to God, invites His presence, and breaks chains of fear and discouragement. More than just singing, worship becomes the sword of the Spirit—building faith, bringing joy, and causing the enemy to flee. Listeners are encouraged to make worship a daily practice, sing scripture over difficult situations, and gather with others for corporate praise. Worship, JD reminds us, is a powerful weapon available in both our highs and lows.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross unpacks how faith overcomes fear. While fear paralyzes and focuses on problems, faith moves us forward by holding onto God’s promises. JD shares four powerful ways to conquer fear: speaking scripture, replacing “what ifs” with “God is” affirmations, surrounding yourself with voices of faith, and remembering God’s past faithfulness. With personal testimony and encouragement, JD reminds listeners that fear never has the final word—God does 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross unpacks the vital call to “guard your heart,” drawing from Proverbs 4:23, Psalm 51:10, and Matthew 5:8. JD explains that protecting your heart isn’t about isolation but about intentionally monitoring the influences you allow in—your thoughts, relationships, and responses.He warns against letting bitterness, fear, greed, and anger take root, encouraging listeners instead to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). JD also provides three practical steps for guarding your heart:Check your inputs – be mindful of what you watch and listen to.Check your relationships – distance yourself from influences that stir negativity.Check your responses – pause before reacting with anger, fear, or doubt.Ultimately, JD reminds us that everything flows from the heart—and when we stumble, God’s mercy is there to help us realign with His truth.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross shares how the battle for our lives begins in the mind. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 10:5, Romans 12:1–2, and Philippians 4:8–9, JD explains how to capture destructive thoughts and replace them with God’s truth. By guarding your mind and renewing it daily with scripture, you can break cycles of fear, shame, worry, and regret, and instead live with peace and purpose. This week’s challenge: practice capturing your thoughts, removing the negative ones, and meditating on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross explores the difference between worldly wisdom and godly wisdom. Drawing from James 1:5, Proverbs 2:6, and James 3:13–17, JD shows how true wisdom comes from God and contrasts it with the false wisdom of envy, selfish ambition, and disorder. He reminds listeners that faith is a growth journey and that godly wisdom produces purity, peace, mercy, and righteousness. This week’s challenge: pray daily for wisdom, asking God to guide you in every decision. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross shares why no one can win the spiritual battle alone. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 and other scriptures, he explains the importance of choosing the right people to fight alongside you—those who will truly “have your back.” JD unpacks what it means to be part of the body of Christ, the role of accountability, and the encouragement that comes from community. This week’s challenge: identify one person you can pray with or encourage as you fight the good fight together. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Circle of the Panda, JD Ross unpacks the power of prayer in spiritual warfare. Prayer isn’t complicated—it’s a direct line to God’s strength, peace, and guidance. Drawing from Philippians 4:6–7, James 5:16, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, JD encourages listeners to make prayer a daily habit, not just in crises but in every decision and circumstance. This week’s challenge: commit to at least 10 minutes of intentional prayer each day and discover how it transforms your walk of faith. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode of The Circle on the Panda Podcast, host JD sits down with Terrence Randolph, Outreach Coordinator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the Piedmont Tri-County area. Terrence shares his personal journey through grief, loss, and healing, and discusses the importance of mental health advocacy.Terrence opens up about his own struggles, the stigma surrounding mental health, and how finding support changed his life. He emphasizes the value of community, the need for accessible mental health resources, and the impact of peer support groups. Listeners will gain insight into how NAMI empowers individuals and communities to break the silence around mental health, and how anyone can get involved to make a difference.Whether you’re facing your own challenges or want to support others, this episode is a heartfelt reminder: you are not alone, and help is available. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast, host JD welcomes Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and executive director of Globe Aware. Kimberly shares her journey from a successful corporate career to leading impactful short-term service projects in over 25 countries. She discusses the inspiration behind Globe Aware, the importance of ethical and culturally immersive volunteering, and the life-changing experiences that come from serving communities around the world. Kimberly also reflects on the challenges and rewards of international service, the value of human connection, and how giving back can bring joy and meaning to both volunteers and those they serve. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about service, empathy, and making a difference—one project at a time.Learn more about Kimberly and Globe Aware at globeaware.org, and discover how you can get involved in meaningful service opportunities worldwide.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this episode of Circle of the Panda, JD Ross continues the Fight the Good Fight series with a raw and real look at spiritual endurance. Drawing from Hebrews 12:1–3, JD shares practical ways to keep moving forward when faith feels heavy—fixing your eyes on Jesus, removing distractions, and building habits that strengthen your walk. Expect encouragement, scripture, and actionable steps to help you run the race with perseverance. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceEmpowering Women's Transition from Corporate Leadership to Business Ownership: Featuring Tasha DashIn this episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast, host JD welcomes Tasha Dash, a transformative leader who helps women transition from corporate roles to successful business ownership. Tasha is the CEO and founder of She Dreams Consulting and the creator of She Dreams Academy, offering guidance and strategies to empower women to build sustainable businesses. Tasha shares her personal journey, her challenges, and how she turned setbacks into stepping stones. She also delves into the importance of having a strong foundation for a business and the critical role of mindset. Additionally, Tasha discusses the advantages and applications of AI in enhancing business operations. Tune in for inspiring insights and practical advice on achieving entrepreneurial success.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:19 Tasha Dash's Mission and Background00:45 The Birth of She Dreams Academy01:18 Tasha's Personal Journey and Setbacks01:27 Podcast Overview and Topics01:45 Initial Conversation with Tasha03:01 Tasha's Corporate to Entrepreneurship Transition04:22 Challenges and Realizations in Business07:02 The Importance of Mentorship14:06 Mindset Shift from Corporate to Entrepreneurship17:18 Building a Strong Business Foundation19:22 Overcoming Rejection and Serving Others20:24 Faith and Resilience in Entrepreneurship21:39 Navigating the Early Stages of Entrepreneurship22:09 The Importance of Knowing Your Why23:08 Learning from Mistakes and Mentorship26:31 Family History in Entrepreneurship30:00 The Role of AI in Modern Business38:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In Episode 2 of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross takes us into the reality of spiritual battles and how to stand firm when they come. From Ephesians 6, he reminds us that the fight isn’t against people but against unseen spiritual forces, and God equips us with the armor to endure. JD walks through each piece of the armor of God—truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer—and shares how these tools prepare us to respond with peace instead of anger. He offers a personal story of confrontation, showing how remembering God’s Word transformed a tense encounter into understanding. The episode closes with encouragement from Isaiah 41:10, a reminder that God is with us, strengthening and upholding us. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceThis is the third in a three-part series with Barrett Counterman. In this episode Barrett discusses:- a perception that some have of people with disabilities - why there are not more people with disabilities in churches- how to pray for someone with a disability - how a Bible Study would look if Barrett ran one

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace In this opening episode of Fight the Good Fight, JD Ross lays the foundation for a new 12-week series. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:11–12, he unpacks what it means to 'fight the good fight of faith.' Life is full of battles—stress, division, even the struggles within our own minds—but the Bible calls us to focus on the one fight that leads to peace, joy, and eternal reward. JD contrasts the weariness of worldly fights with the hope and contentment that come from pursuing righteousness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. This series isn’t just for those who share his beliefs; it’s an open invitation to anyone who wants to live with purpose and goodness in a weary world.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceBarrett Counterman has Cerebral Palsy but Cerebral Palsy does not have Barrett Counterman. Barrett has a clear vision, and he shares it in this episode. He also discusses:- What he struggles with- His dream- Why he uses the name Swaggy Life- Advice for those serving or living in assisting living homesStay tuned for more from Barrett Counterman. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn this episode, JD Ross and Barrett share their motivations for launching the podcast. Barrett emphasizes the importance of showing what’s possible for individuals with disabilities and the vital role of support systems. Reflecting on their first job at ScairoWinds, Barrett recounts challenges with accommodations and the assumptions others made about their disability—underscoring the need to ask questions rather than assume. They also discuss the perceived risks some people feel when engaging with individuals with disabilities, the problem of isolation within the disability community, and Barrett’s vision to be a “trailblazer” who helps others access resources and share the Gospel.JD highlights the importance of prayer for those facing emotional and spiritual challenges tied to disability. He also advocates for greater inclusion of disability voices in churches and outlines his vision for a Bible study and the Purple Kindness nonprofit—an initiative designed to bridge resource gaps and foster collaboration across nonprofits.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceHow do we solve the homeless problem?This episode is a conversation with Haley, the location manager at Curbside Flowers in Oklahoma City. They are certainly doing their part to help the homeless and they have been very gracious in sharing the model. You can find more about them on the website:Curbside Flowers

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceWhere do most of us place our trust? In ourselves, in other people?This episode was done out on location and I "randomly" met a couple that provided the answer that I needed. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceEpisode Summary: In this short but powerful episode, JD sits down with Whitley O’Connor, the manager of Curbside Apparel, a nonprofit T-shirt shop in Oklahoma City with a bold mission: to end homelessness through supportive employment.Whitley shares how Curbside Apparel helps people experiencing homelessness get back on their feet by learning job skills, earning income, and building confidence. From organizing the annual Point-In-Time Count to training individuals for the mainstream workforce, this team is leading real change.We’re excited to announce: Circle of the Panda is switching our shirts to be made by them.What You’ll Learn:How Curbside Apparel provides jobs to people experiencing homelessnessThe reality behind Oklahoma City’s housing crisisWhat the Point-In-Time Count reveals about homelessnessWhitley’s personal story of opportunity and why he’s committed to this workHow you can support or partner with Curbside ApparelLinks & Resources:🌐 Curbside Apparel Website📷 Visit them in OKC or follow on Instagram (insert handle)🧵 Want T-shirts made with purpose? Contact Curbside Apparel🎧 Listen to more Finding the Good episodes at circlethepandapodcast.com

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceHave you ever felt lost? In this episode we talk to John Leary about cairns. This is a method that hikers use to stay on track but the concept can be applied to our journey in business and in life. 

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceJohn Leary is the Founder of Health Perspectives. He created the company out of a need that he saw based on his past work experience. - Medicare is complicated.- On average, 7.4% of a given workforce is over the age of 65 and that number is expected to grow.The combination of these two factors creates an opportunity.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceIn the episode we have an on-location interview with Domonique Boone. Domonique is the Founder and Owner of Leslie's Laundry Care. She also started a non-profit that provides sandwiches for the homeless. It is clear in the conversation why her business is growing!You can find Domonique at:https://leslieslaundrycare.com/#/

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceMarina Ivanov is the Co-Founder and CEO of Apex Transit Solutions. In this episode Marina talks how she grew up in the industry, her style of leadership and belief in treating others with dignity and respect. She is a prime example of what it means to have a growth mindset!

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceJoe is an expert, trusted advisor, coach, and consultant with a passion for helping business owners and entrepreneurs transform both their personal and professional lives in powerful, unique ways.With a career spanning over 30 years, Joe has had the privilege of working with many dedicated and talented individuals across the globe. His mission is to empower leaders to rise above confusion and uncertainty so they can reach their full potential and build more meaningful lives and businesses.As a business owner himself, Joe has faced numerous life-changing challenges—experiences that have given him invaluable wisdom and perspective. His background spans sales, human behavior, and leadership, all of which play a key role in how he guides others through transformation and growth.Joe’s ultimate goal is not just to help people—but to change lives. His unique gift lies in his ability to see potential and possibilities even when others can’t—and to help turn those visions into reality.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceDoes anyone miss the fundamental, "old school" values that you can still find in some small towns?Our guest on this episode is James Walters. Mr. Walters is the Town Administrator in Fort Gibson Oklahoma. Listen in as he talks about how Fort Gibson is "paving the future while preserving the past."

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceChristine Spagnuolo isn’t your typical headhunter. With nearly 20 years of experience recruiting for founders and CEOs across industries, from SaaS and construction to legal and even wineries, she has built a reputation for uncovering hidden talent, not just filling roles. As the Principal of The Sorelle Group, Christine helps businesses land top-tier candidates who align with their vision. Her approach goes beyond job titles and LinkedIn profiles. She focuses on finding the right fit, where skill meets purpose. Beyond recruitment, Christine coaches professionals on life design, helping them build careers that align with their values and ambitions. She also works with recruiters looking to break free from the agency or corporate world and create a business on their own terms. A digital nomad at heart, Christine has spent the last 10 years embracing change, living across the world, and proving that success doesn’t require a fixed address. She is passionate about personal growth and helping people step outside their comfort zones to design a life they truly love.When she’s not matchmaking executives with their dream roles, you’ll find her fostering animals in Tulum, diving into deep conversations about ikigai, or sharing sharp insights on LinkedIn.You can find Christine on LinkedIn!

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. Peace

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceHannah Keller is a repeat guest on our podcast and for good reason.Hannah is a sophomore at the University of South Carolina and already has a great view of how to succeed in business at any age. This episode is packed full of helpful information. You can find Hannah on LinkedIn at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkeller014

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceThe "You Are..." episodes by Danny Hall center on helping people understand that even though we are NOT perfect, we ARE all valuable. Whether it's to your family, friends, coworkers, the community, or simply to your creator, you ARE...Danny discusses those concerns that many of us experience centering on our imperfection and why it's a GOOD thing that none of us are perfect.

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceOur guests on this episode are Fred Robinson - Founder of Body Helix and Steve Price - Pastor and Senior Pro Pickleball Player. In this episode we discuss what it is like to play senior pro pickleball, the state of the game and so much more. You can find out more from Fred Robinson at:https://www.bodyhelix.com/

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceHave you ever been part of something that you knew was very special and will alter your view of life?Maybe even provide a little bit of hope?There is a camp that I attended recently that did both of those things for me, and many others as well. You can find out more at the link below:https://campblueskies.org/

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceMental toughness is important in any area of life, especially these days. Our guest on this episode knows a lot about mental toughness. Fred Robinson is the Founder of Body Helix, a pickleball coach and was at one point the #2 ranked amateur tennis player in the world in his age group. Fred not only teaches mental toughness but has lived it!You can find out more at:https://www.bodyhelix.com/

JD here. Just click this link to get a message to me. PeaceSome companies set the example of how business should be done regardless of the industry, and Selkirk is one of those businesses. Our guest on this episode is Tom Barnes, Co-Owner and Director of R&D for Selkirk.Listen in as Tom describes the principles, processes, and practices on which Selkirk was founded and continues to operate on. You can find out more about Selkirk at:https://www.selkirk.com/pages/about-us