Called to Confidence - Personal Development For Kingdom Focused Leaders
Sharon Hughes, Author, Speaker, Confidence Expert · Sharon Hughes
Show overview
Called to Confidence - Personal Development For Kingdom Focused Leaders has been publishing since 2019, and across the 7 years since has built a catalogue of 59 episodes. That works out to roughly 35 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a roughly quarterly cadence.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 31 min and 41 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 2 months ago, with 2 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2019, with 36 episodes published. Published by Sharon Hughes.
From the publisher
Most people struggle with confidence, but it doesn't have to be that way. Join Sharon Hughes for candid conversations around mindset, leadership and faith to help you feel more confident and become more strategic in your life and leadership.
Latest Episodes
View all 59 episodesEp 59Ep. 59 There's No Such Thing As Moonshine with Scott Couchenour
In this powerful episode of Called to Confidence, I sit down with Scott Couchenour, also known as the 4th Quarter Coach, to talk about what happens when life strips away your identity—and how you rebuild from there. Scott shares his journey of losing his career, feeling like he had no agency, and spending nearly two years in what he describes as “the cave”—a season of deep uncertainty and internal struggle. Through that process, he developed a simple but profound framework: the 5 D’s—download, discern, design, do, and dig. This conversation is about redeeming loss, rediscovering purpose, and learning how to stop living by default and start living by design. Because at the heart of every decision, every relationship, and every business transaction… is you. Connect with Scott Couchenour on LinkedIn Life By Design: More Freedom. Less Regret available on Amazon Work with Scott: https://www.servingstrong.com/ Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 58Ep. 58 Loving and Leading Hurting People with Scott Warren
This episode is one of the most honest and human conversations we’ve had on Called to Confidence. I sit down with Scott Warren—Leadership and Workplace Culture Speaker, author, and host of the Preach Where You Reach® Podcast—to talk about what it really looks like to love people when they’re hurting… and when we’ve been hurt ourselves. We dive into the reality of church hurt, the tension of navigating faith in a diverse world, and the importance of sharing our stories to bring hope—not pressure. This conversation is raw, candid, and deeply relatable as we explore how to lead with compassion without compromising who we are. You’ll hear powerful reminders like: your faith doesn’t have to be someone else’s, loving people doesn’t require fixing them, and sometimes growth comes down to one simple truth—choose your hard. Along the way, Scott shares impactful stories—including the Garth Brooks story and the Neil story—that will stay with you long after the episode ends. If you’ve ever wrestled with hurt, faith, or how to show up for others with both truth and grace… this episode is for you. Connect with Scott Warren on LinkedIn Order Scott's books: For The Love Of God, Care About Your People Preach Where You Reach Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 57Ep. 57 How Jealousy Hijacks Your Life with Shanenn Bryant
In this very personal and candid conversation Shanenn Bryant, a relationship confidence expert shares what most people won't say out loud. This is a needed conversation and I invite you to listen and share this out.Shanenn discusses the issue of jealousy in relationships suggesting that it is often a symptom of deeper personal issues rather than a direct result of a partner's actions. Shanenn said that as relationships become more serious, the stakes are higher and jealousy can intensify. She likened jealousy to an addiction, noting that the constant need for reassurance from a partner can lead to frustration for both parties. Our Thoughts Are Relentless Those little monsters taking up space in our heads love to work overtime concocting new ways to convince us that we're not good "enough". Telling us we're not: Smart enoughLovable enoughAttractive enoughFunny enoughSkilled enoughWorthy enoughor any other soul-crushing blows they can lob your way.Jealousy is not the problem itself, but rather a solution to an underlying issue. Shanenn and Sharon also touched on the idea that jealousy often stems from beliefs and the need to examine one's own thoughts and feelings. Shanenn and Sharon discussed the societal pressure on women to be self-sufficient and its impact on their confidence and performance at work and emphasized the importance of focusing on the subconscious mind for lasting change.Take the FREE attachment quiz and discover if you have something you need to address. Connect with Shanenn Bryant at TopSelf.com Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 56Ep. 56 Work Life Balance with Rob Fornango
In today’s episode, Rob Fornango, founder of F1 Analytics, shares his personal journey through extreme burnout and how he discovered the path to work-life balance. Rob doesn’t just share his own transformation but offers insight into recognizing burnout in your team and how to address it before it takes a toll on performance. From pivoting his career to find fulfillment to challenging the common "work hard, play hard" narrative, Rob’s story is a must-listen for anyone looking to build a healthier relationship with their work.Rob's wisdom:Burnout’s Impact on Performance: Rob emphasizes that it’s impossible to do your best work when you’re burnt out or stuck in a job you hate. The Backlash of Staying for Money: There's a serious downside when you're paid more to do a job that doesn't align with you - when you come off the money high you're still burned out.The "Work Hard, Play Hard" Myth: Rob shares how easy it is to get caught in the work hard, play hard belief. Career Pivot: Rob’s inspiring career shift—from building the criminology program at Arizona University to founding F1 Analytics—reveals the power of following what truly fulfills you. His story highlights the courage it takes to leave a prestigious role and pursue a passion that not only brought him peace but also allowed him to help others in a meaningful way. Connect with Rob Fornango on LinkedIn Visit F1 Analytics Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 55Ep. 55 The Impact of Hope with Chet Gladkowski
In this heartfelt episode, I have a candid conversation with Chet Gladkowski—an author, hope dealer, and storyteller extraordinaire. Chet brings us along on a deeply personal journey, sharing stories that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced heartbreak, failure, or moments of doubt.Chet opens up about a pivotal moment during a ball game, where one simple comment from his father shifted the way he saw hope—and almost caused him to give up on hope entirely. It’s a powerful reminder of how words can shape us, for better or worse.Throughout our conversation, Chet candidly shares stories of hope, wisdom and leadership woven into his experiences with hopelessness, failure and heartbreak. But what’s even more inspiring is how he found hope on the other side. Chet reveals how his faith has been the anchor in his journey, leading him through the toughest times.One of the key takeaways from this episode is the gift of listening. Chet talks about how truly listening to others has transformed his relationships and given him the opportunity to love on a deeper level while building their trust.This episode is a raw and real look into the ups and downs of life, and how faith and hope can bring light even in the darkest moments.Connect with Chet here:www.ChetGlad.org Enter HOPE at checkout and save $5 on the purchase of his book.LinkedInFacebook Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 54Ep. 54 The Red Zone of Risk with Robert Christiansen
In this episode, Sharon interviews Robert Christiansen a leadership and career coach, creator of The Gift app and founding partner of Motive For Life.They explore the deep connection between self-worth and career success, their personal journeys of overcoming self-confidence and self-worth issues and how these struggles shaped their careers. Robert discusses the creation of his self-worth app, The Gift, which offers daily affirmations to help users shift towards a more positive mindset and develop self-worth.Highlights of the conversation: Your self-worth directly impacts your career success; how Robert came back from a "dark night of the soul" and $150K in debt Discover how The Gift app is transforming lives with daily affirmations that build self-worth and positivityThe pressures men face in work and life—and how self-sabotage can hold them backEver heard of the 'Red Zone'? Learn how emotional discomfort can sabotage your success when you’re reaching for big goalsConnect with Robert Christiansen:www.MotiveForLife.comLinkedIn.com/in/christiansen-robert Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 53Ep. 53 Do It The Way You Want To with Kirsten Farrell
Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation as I sit down with Kirsten Farrell, Director of The Goodman Center. Kirsten brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in communications and marketing, teaching professionals how to connect with their audience and make a significant impact.In this episode, Kirsten shares her journey from Hollywood actress to leading The Goodman Center, where she has facilitated countless workshops and webinars for prestigious clients like The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, UCLA, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her expertise in storytelling has empowered public interest professionals to effectively convey their messages and drive positive change.We delve into the unexpected places Kirsten found hope, exploring her personal and professional transitions. Kirsten opens up about her decision to leave Hollywood, and what guided her onto a new path. One of the standout moments of our conversation is Kirsten's powerful statement: "It can be important but doesn’t have to be serious." She discovered this perspective during a live workshop and this is definitely one of my favorite takeaways! Tune in to discover how Kirsten's work at The Goodman Center and her experiences with programs like The Corporation for Supportive Housing’s Speak Up! Program LA have influenced her unique approach to storytelling and advocacy. Plus, hear about her creative endeavors with Impro Theatre, where she brings long-form narrative improv to life.Connect with Kirsten Farrell:www.thegoodmancenter.comOn LinkedIn Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 52Ep. 52 You Don't Have to Keep the Label
In this episode of Called to Confidence, we delve into the powerful topic of shedding the harmful labels others place on us, such as "failure," and how to break free from their grip. Drawing insights from my book, The Girl in the Garage: 3 Steps to Letting Go of Your Past, I share actionable steps to break up with harmful labels. Join me as we learn to reclaim our identities and choose words that uplift and inspire us.Grab a copy of my book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8tbMc5S Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 51Ep. 51 Understanding Your Power To Choose
In this episode, I'm reading chapter 11 from my book, The Girl In The Garage: 3 Steps To Letting Go Of Your Past. Have you ever considered that the power to choose what you want is actually your superhuman power? It holds the ability to completely change the trajectory of your life. In this episode I'll share with you how powerful your choices are and some things to consider about what you will hold onto and let go of. Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 50Ep. 50 Be A Daydream Believer
I'm a daydream believer...wanna know why? Because daydreams aren't just daydreams, they are snapshots of what God has planned for us. You may think that longing in your soul was from you, but God created you for a divine purpose and wired you different than the other 7 billion people on the planet. He created you for specific things that only you can do the way you do it. Think of a singer - many people can sing, but not just anyone can belt out 🎼 like Pavarotti or Luke Bryan. See how broad the range is? Grab your freebies at sharonhughes.net Grab a copy of my book, The Girl In The Garage: 3 Steps to Letting Go Of Your Past Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 48Ep. 49 How Core Values Affect Your Decision Making
Here's a 2 minute tip on why you need to make decisions based on your core values. Need a confidence boost? Go to sharonhughes.net and grab your freebies: "4 Steps To A More Confident You" and "How To Work Through The Hard Things". Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 47Ep. 48 Healing From Rejection with Ami Loper
Have you ever felt the sting of rejection? Unfortunately most of us have multiple times and quite often it can leave lasting emotional damage. Rejection expert, speaker and Bible teacher Ami Loper joins me for a candid conversation and shares her very personal struggle with rejection at a young age and how craving love changed her life. Points from Ami: The symptoms of rejection Many are living in an emotional war zone How religion capitalizes on fear Believing you are loved and wanted by God Connect with Ami Loper: amiloper.com Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 46Ep. 47 360* Leadership with Steve Verburg
Joining me once again is my good friend Steve Verburg, President of Dale Carngegie Orange County. Steve has been coaching, speaking and helping leaders develop their skills for over 20 years. I really like to pick Steve's brain and he indulged me once again, I know you will learn so much from this candid conversation that you can implement immediately. Key takeaways: What is 360* leadership and why is it needed? Why coaching isn't just for athletes. Why equipping people to lead will save your bottom line. How to get what you need from someone above you. Key indicators that you or your team needs training. How to get emotional buy-in. What makes employees happy and stay in their position, hint: it's not what you think. The Problem Analysis Formula Connect with Steve Verburg at OCDaleCarnegie.com Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 45Ep. 46 True Strength and True Faith with Kevin Sorbo
What happens when Kevin Sorbo comes on the show? An amazing candid conversation that is an absolute delight. Kevin rose to fame and became a household name for his roles as Hercules, Captain Dylan Hunter in Andromeda, and Kull in Kull the Conqueror, but in this interview his guy next door - hometown roots and faith shine through. Since leaving the screen as an action hero he has dedicated himself to creating inspirational family movies such as Soul Surfer the story of surfer Bethany Hamilton who lost her arm in a shark attack and faith based movies such as God's Not Dead to name a few. Kevin shared an encounter with a woman he met at ComicCon who had polar opposite beliefs and why Christians need to be more forgiving - and I agree with him! I asked Kevin what's the biggest thing he's learned about himself looking back over his life. His answer surprised me and every creator, artist, leader and entrepreneur needs to hear it. Takeaways from Kevin: His encounter with Rev. Billy Graham Having faith vs. needing faith The assumptions about who he is The cost of not listening to "the voice" Being called out for not being "Christian enough" Coming out Summer 2021 Miracle in East Texas Connect with Kevin at KevinSorbo.net Order his books, True Faith and True Strength Kevin is working on: Climate Hustle 2 Documentary Before The Wrath Against The Tide Connect with Kevin Sorbo here Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 44Ep. 45 You Are Called To Confidence
Hey there friends, I'm glad you're here. It's time to develop your confidence and experience a deeper self-worth in three key areas of your life: your mind, your faith and your leadership. You may not be sure what you believe, you may feel on top of your game as far as your mindset goes, or you may struggle to pull yourself together - that's totally ok and you're in the right place. As far as leadership goes, you don't have to be in the C suite to qualify; parents, Girl Scout leaders and soccer coaches all count as leaders. I'm here to encourage and equip you to reach the next level, whatever that might be for you. Your breakthrough is important to me. Some days I will share tips and strategies, other days I may read an excerpt from my book, or share a prayer. And of course, I will still bring you interviews with prominent thought leaders or celebrities like I have in the past. Whatever I share, it will come from a place of serving you. I'm glad you're a part of my community. We're in this thing called life, together. sharonhughes.net IG: @sharonhughesofficial The Girl In The Garage: 3 Steps to Letting Go of Your Past (available on Amazon.com Target.com BarnesandNoble.com) Grab your free guide to confidence - 4 Steps to a More Confident You - https://sharonhughes.lpages.co/4-steps-to-a-more-confident-you/ Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 43Ep. 44 Creating Your Life After A Tragedy with Gina Gardiner
Gina Gardiner's story is one of sheer will to create a happy life even while facing a tragic situation after a serious skiing accident. She speaks with such passion and conviction, you'll be convinced you can overcome your obstacles too! Get ready to soak up the wisdom of a mentor while being challenged to become your very best. She has been featured on ABC, NBC, BBC, and the Wall Street Journal to name a few. Connect with Gina at https://genuinely-you.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/genuinelyyouprogrammes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginagardinerassociates/ Be sure to check out Gina's books: Thriving Not Surviving: The 5 Secret pathways to Happiness, Success and Fulfilment The Happiness Challenge Chariots On Fire Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 42Ep. 43 The Empowered Overthinker with Stacy Raske Pt. 2
This is part two of one of the most fascinating and candid conversations I've ever brought to the show. To say Stacy Raske is brave is an understatement. She fought the odds that were stacked against her and she won. Now she helps others break free from the dark side of perfectionism. From hitting rock bottom, drinking, binging and cutting to a healthy, successful author and business coach; this interview reveals what lurks beneath the surface of so many broken hearts. Main takeaways from Stacy: The high achiever vs. the high performer running from the past, avoidance and numbing out being crippled by overthinking having the permission to "feel" paying the price of giving her power away and taking it back. Be sure to listen to Ep. 42 for part 1 of the interview. Connect with Stacy Raske: Stacyraske.com Grab her book from Amazon: Amazon/author/stacyraske Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 41Ep. 42 The Empowered Overthinker with Stacy Raske Pt. 1
This is part one of one of the most fascinating and candid conversations I've ever brought to the show. To say Stacy Raske is brave is an understatement. She fought the odds that were stacked against her and she won. Now she helps others break free from the dark side of perfectionism. From hitting rock bottom, drinking, binging and cutting to a healthy, successful author and business coach; this interview reveals what lurks beneath the surface of so many broken hearts. Main takeaways from Stacy: The high achiever vs. the high performer running from the past, avoidance and numbing out being crippled by overthinking having the permission to "feel" paying the price of giving her power away and taking it back. Be sure to listen to Ep. 43 for part 2 of the interview. Connect with Stacy Raske: Stacyraske.com Grab her book from Amazon: Amazon/author/stacyraske Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 40Ep. 41 This Moment is Your Opportunity with Zahra Cruzan
Talking with Zahra Cruzan is like talking to your college bestie. She's smart, warm, kind and shares her triumphs and trials. In this candid conversation, former restaurant owner turned Branding entrepreneur shares the mindset shift she made to overcome her fears and take back control of her life. Key takeaways Zahra nails down in her bestie over coffee style: Overcoming the "do you like me factor" The power of enjoying what you've created The difference between working it and playing it Choosing integrity to herself Using what you have Connect with Zahra Cruzan: Brandauthor.com IG @brand.author FB @brandauthor Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook
Ep 39Ep. 040 Get Your Focus Back part 2
After taking some time away, I felt it was time to break my silence and get back to doing what I do best. Its with deep respect for the losses our country has recently experienced that I share this episode. As we face things we've never faced before and find it harder to focus than before, I'm bringing some words of encouragement in hope we can find a little spot of normal in our day. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and as always, I wish you every good thing. Thank you for being a part of my community.Interested in personal development? Schedule a no pressure meeting with me.Connect with me here: https://sharonhughes.netConnect with me on LinkedInGrab your FREE Confidence workbook