Wisdom in Action Podcast

Larisa Makuh — the CEO and founder of Abundance Academy, an evidence-based Master Results Coach, and NLP and Hypnotherapy trainer with over 26 years of experience helping high-performing entrepreneurs and professionals reprogram limiting beliefs, overcome procrastination, and turn clarity into aligned action.Connect with Larisa:Website - https://myabundanceacademy.ca/Podcast - https://go.myabundanceacademy.ca/the-abundance-effect-podcastLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/larisa-makuch/IG - https://www.instagram.com/myabundanceacademy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/larisa.makuchGet the free resource - Personal Elevation Playbook: https://resources.myabundanceacademy.ca/elevation-playbook00:00 Introduction00:54 The Power of Daily Study02:52 Overcoming Procrastination and Taking Action04:47 Finding Clarity in Goals07:00 Internal Resistance to Goals11:29 Emotions in Personal Growth12:22 The Importance of Awareness in Emotions18:13 Perception and the Reticular Activation System21:55 Noticing Positives23:37 Starving Negativity and Focusing on Good26:52 Growth Perception28:59 Self-Trust30:30 The Learning Cycle35:01 Building Consistency in Life41:02 Simplifying Consistency46:10 Tracking Progress for Success50:37 Embracing Surrender and Beingness

Julee Sung is a career strategist with over 25 years of experience helping early career professionals—especially women—translate inner wisdom into real-world confidence, authentic leadership, and aligned career momentum.Connect with Julee:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/julees94/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@julees94YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@julees94Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/julees947LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juleesung/Website - https://juleesung.com/Get Julee's book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/199828775000:00 Introduction 01:14 From External Validation to Self-Trust03:26 Self-Discovery and Introspection06:50 Comparison and External Standards08:51 Rebuilding Self-Trust After Setbacks10:41 From 'Should' to 'Want'12:46 Compassion in Goal Setting14:49 Energy Behind Our Goals17:43 Healing from Past Struggles20:53 Navigating Uncertainty23:50 Finding Humor in Life's Absurdities25:48 Acknowledging Mistakes and Moving Forward27:40 Cultivating a Positive Mindset29:33 Building Positive Habits32:00 Navigating Change34:46 Consistency and Hard Work39:16 Taking Action and Trusting the Process45:30 Uncertainty and Control52:37 Letting Go of Control and Acceptance

Leah Gross — an occupational therapist with more than 20 years of experience and the founder of Circle Care Services, where she provides support for children diagnosed with autism and their families. She’s also the host of two podcasts supporting BCBAs, families, and caregivers in the autism community.Connect with Leah:https://www.circlecareservices.com/00:00 Introduction00:52 Journey into Occupational Therapy05:25 Continuous Learning in Therapy09:27 Balancing Personal Life and Professional Growth10:57 Understanding Occupational Therapy and Its Impact14:10 Speech Therapy and Its Role15:59 Behavioral Analysis: ABA Therapy18:13 Empowering Neurodiverse Children18:39 Understanding Neurodiversity and Autism20:30 Integrating Neurodiverse Individuals into Society22:09 The Value of Neurodiverse Contributions23:50 Compassion and Understanding in Parenting27:54 Advice for Families with Neurodiverse Children33:15 Learning from Challenges and Growth37:53 Embracing the Journey of Life

Sherry Bevan — a team performance and talent development consultant with over 25 years of experience leading and building high-performing teams across technology, professional services, sports, and the charity sector. Sherry helps organisations strengthen collaboration, elevate leadership, and build thriving team cultures through her Human Edge Framework.Connect with Sherry:https://www.sherrybevan.co.uk/00:00 Introduction 00:36 People First03:56 Building Connection in Teams11:19 Psychological Safety14:17 Balancing Care and Accountability20:14 Feedback and Celebration23:43 Navigating Difficult Conversations26:48 Personal Feelings in Leadership29:36 Self-Reflection and Journaling33:39 Psychological Safety38:35 The Human Edge Framework for Leadership44:22 Embracing Imperfection and Learning from Failure

Mary Eldridge is a bilingual trauma therapist and founder of Pathway to Healing Counseling Services and Mind to Thrive.Through her program Boundary Reset, Mary helps women move from guilt and people-pleasing into clarity, confidence, and authentic connection — all through the power of healthy, embodied boundaries.Connect with Mary:https://www.mindtothrive.com/00:00 Introduction 00:44 Understanding People-Pleasing and Survival Mode05:09 The Nature of Trauma and Perception06:42 Navigating Trauma and Finding Safety10:41 The Importance of Trust in Relationships14:51 The Role of Vulnerability in Connection18:18 Reclaiming Control Through Understanding22:46 Setting Healthy Boundaries26:34 Understanding Boundaries and People-Pleasing29:30 The Grief of Unfulfilled Relationships32:36 Navigating Self-Sabotage and Internal Conflicts37:18 The Importance of Self-Differentiation41:18 Setting Boundaries and Personal Growth

Christopher Gronski is a Private Freedom Consultant with more than 30 years of experience. As the founder of DestinationFreedom.org, he specializes in federal jurisdiction and has dedicated his career to helping Americans worldwide understand their rights, their choices, and how to legally eliminate their federal income tax liability.Connect with Christopher:DestinationFreedom.org

Sandra K. Doyle (Sandy) is a mother of seven, grandmother of nineteen, and great-grandmother of three. Her book, “My Life at the Cemetery: It’s Not as Dead as You Think: My Spiritual Journey through Life and Death” details the events of her 12-year career in the deathcare industry and how her encounters made her rethink her relationships, life, and spirituality. She has belonged to the Optimist International organization for over 26 years. Sandy loves spending time with her family, friends, traveling, and coming up with great ideas to help enrich the lives of children in her community. She served as the Vice-President for Middle America. Optimism, spirituality, and gratitude are the core of her story, and sharing this message is her passion.Connect with Sandra:Website: https://www.sandydoyle-author.com/Get Sandra's book:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9798886446609https://readerhouse.com/product/my-life-at-the-cemetery-its-not-as-dead-as-you-think/https://books.apple.com/us/book/my-life-at-the-cemetery-its-not-as-dead-as-you-think/id6458192440Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/00:00 Introduction00:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:36 The Power of Self-Love12:57 Lessons from Death and Life23:39 Navigating Grief and Loss32:09 Understanding the Death Care Profession38:30 Life Lessons from the Cemetery43:18 Wisdom in the Journey of Life

Heike Yates is a Midlife Fitness Expert, speaker, podcast host, and author of Pursue Your Spark. She helps midlife women rebuild strength, energy, and confidence through realistic fitness, nutrition, and mindset strategies that fit real life—without extremes or perfection.After leaving a 9-to-5 job and moving to Washington, D.C., Heike rediscovered her sense of self through fitness. That personal reset became a lifelong mission. As a single mom raising two children on $300 a month, movement became her anchor through every difficult season.In 2010, she created Pilates with Resist-A-Ball, a joint-friendly, strength-focused approach designed to help people feel strong without pain. With certifications in Pilates, strength training, and nutrition—and lived experience as a bodybuilder and Ironman triathlete—Heike brings over 35 years of practical and professional expertise to her work.She is the founder of Pursue Your Spark and host of the Pursue Your Spark Podcast, where she shares honest conversations and actionable tools to help women stop shrinking their lives and start living fully again.Connect with Heike:Website: https://heikeyates.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pursueyoursparkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heikeyates/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heike-yates/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIeOesGLGAOD5RhI2KYjcAPodcast - Pursue Your Spark: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pursue-your-spark-midlife-fitness-nutrition-mindset/id1231586317Book - Pursue Your Spark: https://amzn.to/4mD5xL7 00:00 Introduction 00:46 The Transformative Power of Exercise04:03 Overcoming Mental Barriers to Fitness09:36 Challenging Limiting Beliefs13:30 Taking the First Step Towards Change16:12 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care20:26 Navigating Guilt and Self-Advocacy22:44 Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth24:36 Navigating Support and Resistance from Others27:09 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Resilience30:00 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Progress32:58 The Importance of Ownership and Accountability35:36 Mindful Eating and Making Conscious Choices38:41 Challenging Diet Myths and Embracing Flexibility42:30 Finding Freedom in Choices and Lifestyle45:54 Connecting and Sharing Wisdom

Deborah Ninolowo is A Faith-Based Business Consultant and Life Coach that assists women in their careers and life to develop balance and emotional wellness by curating self awareness by building the confidence and courage for authentic, transparency and vulnerable partners and relationships by implementing biblical principles for greater impact and sustainability.Connect with Deborah:https://about.me/deborahhendricks-gilmoreApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Holly McNeill spent 26 years as an architect, hit quarter-life crisis at 34, then spent 20 years studying neuroscience, psychology, and Buddhism. Now she's The Mindfulness Architect, teaching people how to escape autopilot living through the P.E.R.L.O.V.E. Formula. Spoke at Yale 2025. Host of "Pay Attention" podcast. Find her at HollyMcNeill.com

Nick Gaylord is the creator of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word Podcast, a show that normalizes conversations around grief, trauma, and loss — and creates space for others to process what they’ve lived through.What began as a way to navigate his own heartbreak has become a growing community where no story is too heavy, and no one has to grieve alone.Connect with Nick:https://www.ourdeaddads.com/00:00 Intro02:28 The Importance of Processing Grief04:17 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations07:04 The Power of Listening and Holding Space10:00 Understanding Emotions and Grief12:54 The Complexity of Grief Beyond Death15:59 Navigating Loss in Everyday Life19:09 Honoring Memories and Conversations21:52 The Impact of Words in Grief25:08 Building Connections Through Shared Stories33:10 Embracing Presence in Grief37:03 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Loss45:36 Forgiveness and Letting Go59:50 Lessons from Grief and Community01:11:13 The Ongoing Process of HealingApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Carolyn Boras is a RTT Practitioner and Certified Hypnotherapist on a mission to help overwhelmed teachers break from the stress and build a life that they don't need a holiday from.Connect with Carolyn:https://carolynborashypnotherapy.com/00:37 Empowering Teachers: A Principal's Wisdom03:36 The Role of Leadership in Education09:30 Navigating Challenges in Teaching15:40 The Importance of Support and Community21:49 Finding Purpose and Making Changes28:34 Creating an Exit Strategy35:39 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs39:21 Finding Purpose Through Discontent42:01 Visualizing a Future Without Limitations44:31 Commitment and Accountability in Achieving Goals46:34 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Imperfection52:19 Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty58:32 The Power of Change Driven by Discontent01:03:39 Lessons Learned from a Lifetime of TeachingApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Melissa Schwartzman is a therapist and divorce consultant who has spent over 25 years helping people navigate the emotional and practical challenges of breakups, co-parenting, and rebuilding life after separation.Connect with Melissa:https://www.melissabethcounseling.com/00:45 Trusting Yourself: The First Step to Healing03:42 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Trust06:49 Navigating Cultural Norms and Expectations09:55 Dealing with Rejection and Loneliness11:14 The Importance of Self-Love and Acceptance12:43 Learning Through Experience: Embracing Mistakes18:11 The Power of Mindset in Achieving Goals24:08 Building Confidence Through Action27:40 Building Confidence After Setbacks33:15 Navigating Relationships and Self-Worth37:51 Healing After a Breakup45:11 Supporting Each Other Through Life's Ups and DownsApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Amita Sharma is a co-founder of NourishDoc, a global wellness platform supporting women through hormonal transitions — from PMS to postmenopause — using holistic, evidence-informed care.Inspired by her own perimenopausal journey while working in the high-tech world, Amita felt unsupported and underserved — so she built the resource she needed.Connect with Amita:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amita-sharma-nourishdoc00:46 Listening to Yourself: A Journey of Self-Discovery05:54 The Birth of NourishDoc: A Personal Mission11:00 Breaking the Silence: The Shame of Midlife13:54 Key Lessons from Conversations with Women18:23 Navigating Perimenopause: Understanding the Journey19:34 Understanding Women's Health in Midlife24:21 Lifestyle Changes for Better Health29:11 The Role of Hormones34:28 Community and Support Systems39:21 Embracing Change and Letting Go of FearApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Terry Tucker - speaker and author on topics of mindset and self-improvement.He’s been a college athlete, a SWAT hostage negotiator, and now a sought-after speaker on mental toughness and personal excellence.Connect with Terry:https://www.motivationalcheck.com00:50 Transforming a Death Sentence into a Life Sentence02:48 Finding Meaning in Misery04:53 Isolation and Connection in Difficult Times10:46 The Search for Purpose in Life12:10 Decades of Discovery: Finding Your Path17:08 Curiosity and Continuous Learning22:44 Purpose in Pain: Embracing the Journey26:23 Navigating Plateaus and Valleys30:15 The Power of Hope and Resilience35:10 Building Resilience Through Discomfort40:23 The Fear of Success and Personal Responsibility45:14 Resilience in the Face of Adversity50:52 Connecting with Others and Finding PurposeApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Shannon Karafanda is a renegade pastor, transformational leadership coach, and the original #HolyMischief Maker — using faith-inspired acts of kindness to spark connection, courage, and change.Connect with Shannon:https://shannonkarafanda.com/00:49 The Power of Growth Mindset02:40 Prioritizing Relationships06:03 Being Present in Relationships09:21 Navigating Different Growth Levels in Relationships10:57 Understanding Self-Worth12:58 Redefining Failure15:47 The Importance of Progress Over Results19:41 Cultivating a Growth Mindset21:48 The Role of Patience in Growth23:44 Navigating Food and Health Challenges27:19 Navigating Disagreements for Growth29:36 The Gift of Triggers and Self-Exploration31:48 The Impact of Comparison on Self-Worth34:26 Mindfulness and Action in the Age of Distraction37:15 The Importance of Connection and Community40:23 Acts of Kindness: Transforming Lives44:45 The Power of Small Acts of Kindness51:13 Building a Culture of KindnessApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Jonathan Merit is a former D1 athlete turned high performance coach, helping entrepreneurs and high performers win bigger in life and business.Connect with Jonathan:https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.merit.3/00:36 The Importance of Continuous Learning02:32 Aligning Goals with True Desires04:29 The Trap of Learning Without Application06:13 Taking the First Step09:29 Progress Over Perfection10:51 Embracing Setbacks as Learning Opportunities13:43 The Role of Community in Growth24:39 Navigating Loneliness in Entrepreneurship27:01 The Myth of Balance vs. Focus32:36 Quality Over Quantity in Relationships39:26 Navigating Guilt in Focused Seasons46:14 The Journey of Personal Growth and ServiceApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Selena Jones is a therapist and decluttering coach who guides people through life’s messiest transitions with heart, humor, and practical tools.Connect with Selena:https://decluttertalk.com/Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/Join Austra's Mindset and Resilience community here:https://www.skool.com/thecommittedgrowth/about

Elizabeth Mintun is a psychotherapist, mindful life coach, and the host of The Calming Ground podcast.Connect with Elizabeth:https://www.thecalmingground.com/01:02 The Journey from People-Pleasing to Self-Trust05:27 Practicing Saying No10:13 Understanding Crises and Boundaries14:40 The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships20:18 Shifting Towards Balanced Relationships20:42 Curiosity as a Pathway to Awareness27:41 Navigating Overwhelm and Self-Compassion29:16 =Embracing Discomfort32:32 Challenging Self-Perceptions and The Meaning We Create36:24 Finding Your True Self41:17 Navigating Fear and Walls49:25 The Power of Perspective54:27 Finding Peace WithinApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Allen Frantz is a divorce and transition coach, endurance athlete, and former outdoor educator who helps people rebuild identity, confidence, and purpose after major life shifts through life's daily adventures.Connect with Allen:https://www.linkedin.com/in/allen-frantz/00:21 Courage Before Confidence05:29 Building a Vision Through Values09:21 Navigating Life Transitions11:40 Taking Responsibility in Hard Times13:23 Vulnerability and Masculinity16:22 Communication and Connection23:30 Acceptance and Non-Judgment26:50 Creating Safe Spaces for Sharing28:31 Embracing Discomfort and Challenge31:01 The Journey of Self-Discovery34:19 Proving Yourself Wrong36:57 Shifting Identity and Self-Perception42:10 The Role of Community in Growth50:10 Navigating Setbacks with CompassionApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Girisha Andrea Steigler is a trauma transgenerational abuse, healing and grief recovery specialist and expert orgasm coach. She's the founder of ImpressO Method and the Conscious Woman Academy. For over two decades, Girisha has studied ancient traditions and modern healing modalities around the world, using them to guide others and walk through her own transformation. She helps women release shame, heal transgenerational wounds, and reclaim confidence, joy, and sensuality through holistic body-based healing.Connect with Girisha:https://girisha-andrea.com/https://www.facebook.com/steigler.andrea/https://www.instagram.com/girishaandrea/01:00 Awakening to Choice and Presence04:50 Signs of Disconnection from the Body09:23 The Challenge of Awareness11:29 Understanding Shame and Autopilot Behavior18:27 Body Image and Societal Expectations25:34 Holistic Healing and Transgenerational Trauma32:05 The Healing Process: Embracing Slowness37:08 Exploring Femininity: Strength and Authenticity40:41 Defining Femininity: Breaking Societal Norms46:33 The Dance of Masculine and Feminine Energy53:34 Body Acceptance: Overcoming Shame and Embracing Self-LoveApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

About Valerie Huard: Valerie is an award-winning trauma-informed decluttering expert, speaker, and bestselling author. Her method "Put That Stuff Down" offers tools for stress relief, emotional clarity, and reclaiming peace, especially for people navigating trauma, overwhelm, or neurodivergence. After her own journey from severe PTSD symptoms to healing through decluttering, Valerie has dedicated her life to helping others understand the profound connection between trauma and clutter.Connect with Valerie:Free access to 7 declutter secrets: https://up.dowellht.com/wisdom Dowellht.comhttps://www.facebook.com/dowellhthttps://www.instagram.com/dowell.life/https://posttraumasecretsdecluttering.buzzsprout.com/Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Claire is an award-winning health and social care director and leadership coach who has spent nearly 30 years building value-driven teams that thrive. She specializes in helping leaders create workplaces where everybody shines through self-care, clarity, and compassion. Claire is the creator of the ICE values framework (Integrity, Compassion, Excellence) and combines leadership development with wellbeing to transform workplace cultures.Connect with Claire:Website: luminaleadership.co.ukApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Britt Chemla Jones is an expert in body-mind-spirit connection with over 20 years of experience as a Reiki energy healer and yoga and meditation teacher. Her journey into energy work began during a profound period of grief after losing both parents within months of each other while raising two young children. Through dedicated yoga and meditation practice, she discovered the powerful interconnection of body, mind, and spirit, leading to her calling to help others heal. Britt specializes in chakra balancing, emotional release work, and helping clients reconnect with their inner wisdom through energy healing sessions and self-paced courses.Connect with Britt:Website: https://brittchemlajones.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britt.chemla.jones/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YogaByBrittNewsletter: https://yoga-by-britt.kit.com/newsletterFree Masterclass: https://yoga-by-britt.kit.com/release-emotionsApply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Kelly Meyer is an international transformational coach, speaker, and author who has been guiding deep change through one-on-one coaching, group facilitation, workshops, and speaking engagements for nearly 30 years. His approach combines practical wisdom with profound insights about human transformation.Connect with Kelly:Website: projectfindyourfire.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kan.da.125https://www.facebook.com/projectfindyourfireGet free access to 7 steps to make your change permanent:https://www.projectfindyourfire.com/7steps00:00 Introduction to Wisdom in Action02:31 The Impact of Encounters on Self-Discovery05:40 Navigating Regret and Mindset08:43 Redefining Failure and Learning11:34 The Hard Path to Growth14:42 Finding Your Tribe17:34 Navigating No Man's Land24:18 Navigating Change and Building New Connections30:10 Understanding Life's Seasons for Transformation39:48 Taking Action and Overcoming Overthinking44:51 The Power of Choice and Personal Responsibility49:19 Lisa end screen.mp4Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

About Milan Schwarzkopf: Milan is a purposeful retirement expert on a mission to help people design a healthy, wealthy, happy and fulfilling life well into retirement. With a PhD in electrical engineering, MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, and over 30 years of international project management experience, Milan is the author of the Amazon #1 bestseller "Living Your Best Third Act: How to be Healthy, Wealthy and Happy in Your Retirement. Don't Make the Mistakes Most People Do."Connect with Milan:Website: https://www.thirdactresources.com/Book: "Living Your Best Third Act" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXPYH85GLinkedIn: Milan Schwarzkopf00:48 The Importance of Preparing for Retirement05:26 Four Pillars of Retirement Preparation07:30 Common Myths About Retirement11:32 Health Considerations for Retirement13:21 The Role of Relationships in Retirement15:59 Advice for Mid-Career Professionals19:29 Finding Purpose After Work25:35 Taking Action Towards Retirement32:11 Discipline and Consistency in Retirement Planning34:51 Navigating Life After RetirementHosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Maria Costanzo Palmer is a bestselling author, speaker, and passionate storyteller who grew up in one of America's top 10 Italian restaurants, Prima Dona, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania. After her family's restaurant empire became the subject of a federal investigation, Maria moved to Los Angeles where she transformed her personal struggles into a mission of service. She worked with the organization "Get on the Bus," bringing children to visit their incarcerated parents, and later became a host on LA Talk Radio. Now based on the East Coast, Maria works as a grant writer while pursuing her passion for writing and cooking. Her book about the restaurant and her family's journey became the #1 culinary memoir on Amazon, beating out titles by Anthony Bourdain and Stanley Tucci.Connect with Maria:Website: mariacpalmer.comBook: https://www.amazon.com/Rocks-Primadonna-Story-Maria-Palmer/dp/B0C67L5P2YHosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Vinaya is a karmic awareness catalyst, crystal reader, and spiritual coach with over 30 years of experience in helping people reconnect with their authentic power. After leaving Germany at 22 to follow his heart on a transformative journey across Europe and Asia, he spent decades studying under spiritual masters, including time with Osho. His approach focuses on helping people distinguish between their programmed conditioning and their authentic self, transforming fear into guidance, and finding freedom from societal expectations. Vinaya currently offers crystal readings, individual coaching sessions, and retreats, helping people discover their next steps through energetic connection with their higher self.Connect with Vinaya:Website:https://www.psychiccrystalreadings.com/Social links:https://www.youtube.com/@vinayakarmicawarenesscatal7170https://www.instagram.com/psychic.crystal.readings/https://www.facebook.com/satyam.vinaya/01:04 The Journey of Following the Heart04:44 Distinguishing Between Heart and Mind09:38 Embracing Uncertainty and Change15:37 Navigating Fear and Taking Action21:27 Freedom from the Programmed Self34:35 The Journey of Self-Discovery37:16 Acceptance and Freedom in Relationships39:54 Living in the Present41:53 The Power of Breath and Presence46:31 Gratitude and the Miracle of Being Alive51:11 Embracing PerfectionHosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Jamie Hughes is a social psychologist, coach, and author with over 20 years of experience in trauma, resilience, and mental health education. Having personally navigated psychological abuse and mental health challenges, Jamie brings both professional expertise and lived experience to his work. He specializes in therapeutic writing, resilience building, and helping people learn to observe their past without being trapped by it. Jamie is the author of the "Managing Mental Health" book series, covering anxiety, adult ADHD, PTSD, and clinical depression.Connect with Jamie:Website: beacons.ai/managing_mental_healthBook Series: "Managing Mental Health" (Available on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble)01:02 Understanding Trauma and Self-Observation04:38 The Power of Journaling for Healing08:51 Navigating Self-Judgment and Compassion12:44 The Importance of Awareness in Self-Discovery18:31 Embracing the Process of Healing22:30 Defining Resilience and Its Importance23:57 Building Resilience in a Fast-Paced World29:41 The Role of Challenges in Growth37:00 Learning from Failure and Persistence44:51 Connecting with James Hughes and His Work47:19 Wisdom Jamie's learning to liveThis episode discusses trauma, psychological abuse, mental health challenges, and suicide. If you're struggling, please reach out to qualified mental health professionals for support.Hosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Dallas Collis is an author, speaker, coach, and "resonator" joining us from Vancouver Island, Canada. After a devastating year that included cancer, divorce, business loss, and near-suicide, Dallas underwent a profound transformation that led him to insights about consciousness, the "story mind," and present-moment living. He describes himself as someone "back from the dead and out of his story mind," helping others recognize the difference between their stories and their true being.Connect with Dallas:https://www.facebook.com/dallas.collis.33 https://www.instagram.com/dallasfit5life https://www.tiktok.com/@dallascollis.comHosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Brian Parana is a seasoned health coach with over 20 years of experience helping people take control of their health, fitness, and confidence. Married to his high school sweetheart and father of four children, Brian has built a thriving coaching business while maintaining his own health through life's busiest seasons. His approach focuses on practical, sustainable steps that work for real people with real lives, from weight loss and chronic illness support to athletic performance coaching.Connect with Brian:Website: brianparana.comSocial Media: @coachbrianparanaFree Resource - "30 Tips in 30 Days" offers simple, actionable strategies to improve nutrition, fitness, and overall self-careEach day introduces one practical tip, empowering you to build sustainable habits, boost confidence, and feel your best without overwhelm.Visit https://go.brianparana.com/30daysHosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/

Meet Gala Glow, an 8-time entrepreneur who revolutionized her approach to business by putting love at the center of everything. In this conversation, she shares her journey from following everyone else's expectations to creating her own path in what she calls the "new world" of business.What You'll Learn- Love-Based Business Philosophy - Why making love the foundation of your business strategy changes everything- Choosing Yourself Over Expectations - How to break free from societal and family pressures to find your authentic path- Energy as Your Business Foundation - The methodology behind using energy work to create abundance and see new opportunities- Abundance vs Lack Mindset - Practical steps to shift from scarcity thinking to abundance creation, even in difficult circumstances- Present Moment Success - Why enjoying the journey matters more than rushing to the destination- The Spiritual-Business Bridge - How combining spiritual practices with practical business tools creates sustainable successAbout Gala:Gala Glow is an 8-time entrepreneur, international speaker, and mentor for women building soul-aligned, identity-driven businesses. As the founder of Zagreb of Women, she blends business strategy with mindset, energy work, and feminine leadership, helping women grow sustainably and thrive with freedom, joy, and purpose. Based internationally, Gala has built businesses through wars, COVID, and various crises while maintaining her commitment to love-based, non-struggle approaches to success.Connect with Gala:Website: galaglowglobal.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SPG6QsZHZXCh_8_VHeWlQInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/galaglow.globalLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gala-glow-a8a72062/Hosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.Apply to be a guest on the podcast:https://forms.gle/k4bcndvL3j7cH2Bg9Connect with Austra:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austra-putnina/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austra.putnina/If Gala's love-based approach to business resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who's ready to stop struggling and start thriving in their entrepreneurial journey.

Sarah Shaffer doesn't hold back as she shares her journey from drinking 24/7 while managing a successful career and family, to becoming a no-BS life coach who helps women break free from emotional chaos. In this episode:- Radical Accountability vs Victimhood - Why taking ownership of your actions is the only path to true freedom- The Real Truth About Sobriety - Why it was never about the alcohol and what it actually takes to heal- Stopping the Blame Game - How to recognize when you're pointing fingers and take your power back- Understanding Triggers - Why other people aren't responsible for your emotional reactions- Brain Rewiring Strategies - How ketamine therapy and other methods can literally change your neural pathways- Survival vs Thriving - Recognizing when old coping mechanisms no longer serve youAbout Sarah:Sarah Shaffer, MSW, is a no-BS speaker and life strategy coach who helps overwhelmed women break free from emotional chaos and get unstuck with clarity, humor, and heart. As a social worker in the hospital setting and author of "The Dumpster Fire Diaries," Sarah brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. Four years sober, she's passionate about helping women take radical accountability for their lives and break free from victimhood mentality.Connect with Sarah:Website: TheDumpsterFireDiaries.comBook: "The Dumpster Fire Diaries" (Available on Amazon)Hosted by Austra Putnina, resilience coach and podcast strategist. This episode is part of the Wisdom in Action podcast, where we explore what it takes to bridge the gap between knowing and doing.

In this episode of Wisdom in Action, self-care consultant Brett Sams shares the truth behind the self-care industry. Why do so many people still feel overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected—even when they’re “doing all the things”?Brett shares personal insights and practical strategies for redefining self-care, understanding nervous system needs, and creating sustainable habits rooted in real nourishment—not just routines or rituals.In this episode:- Why self-care isn’t always calming (and that’s okay)- The myth of “doing more” to feel better- What burnout is actually telling you- Why regulating your nervous system changes everything- How Brett rebuilt his own relationship with rest, purpose & peace💬 Which self-care “rule” are you ready to unlearn?🔗 CONNECT WITH BRETT SAMShttps://theselfcarezone. com/New episodes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.Hosted by Austra Putniņa#wisdominaction #selfcaremyths #burnoutrecovery #mentalwellness

In this first episode of Wisdom in Action, I sit down with holistic healthcare practitioner Wayne Parkin to explore what it really means to find your purpose. We talk about surrender, trusting your inner GPS, facing uncertainty, and taking aligned action—even when it doesn’t make sense on paper.From pole dancing to Olympic lifting to navigating career transitions, Wayne shares deeply personal stories and tools for reconnecting with your inner wisdom and embracing growth.Topics we cover:- The power of curiosity over control- Surrendering when the path feels unclear- How micro-habits build identity and confidence- What transformation actually looks like day to dayTrusting yourself when no one else gets itWhat's one moment where you trusted your gut—and it changed everything?🔗 CONNECT WITH WAYNE PARKIN💻 Facebook - www.facebook.com/evolutionnt📩 WANT TO BE A GUEST?If you're an expert with 20+ years of experience and want to share your story on the podcast, fill out the application form here:https://forms.gle/BgFj3C9sSmm6s7zB8🎧 SUBSCRIBE for new episodes every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.Hosted by Austra Putniņa | @austraputnina#wisdominaction #findingpurpose #holistichealing