Small Changes Big Shifts

"One of our graduates is impacting a massive amount of people every day – she's making giant change after going through our program." - Natasha Herdman When Natasha Herdman was growing up, she took care of the marketing and bookkeeping for her mom's grooming business in Iowa. Fast forward to 2011, she began working with homeless families in Kansas City, where she was seeing some big barriers between employment and getting out of poverty. Little did she know a vision would come to her in 2012 where these two worlds would collide into one: Pawsperity (formerly known as The Grooming Project). Join Dr. Michelle Robin as she invites Natasha to share her behind-the-scenes story about how this vision came to life one day, and why it took a village of people – some complete strangers – to lift her up and make it a reality. She'll share some incredibly inspiring stories about some people who have graduated from Pawsperity's grooming school and what they are doing to give back to our community today from that experience. At the end of the show, she'll also give an inside look at why the human-animal bond can be a powerful healer for so many who have gone through severe trauma in their lives. About Today's Guest: As founding CEO of Pawsperity, formerly known as The Grooming Project, Natasha Herdman believes in a two-generation approach to breaking the cycle of poverty. Basic needs for food and shelter must be met before a parent can focus on guiding children through school and out of poverty, so a living-wage, family-flexible career for the parent is key. Natasha's innovative approach to breaking the cycle of poverty and proven success has received several awards and the attention of a national catalyst foundation. Natasha has an undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of Iowa and an Executive Master's degree in public administration from the UMKC Bloch School. She is passionate about working with mothers and fathers with multiple barriers to entering the workforce, such as low reading skills, severe trauma, or past incarceration and brings experience in both staff and volunteer roles for Healing House, Reach Out and Read, Community LINC and Stop Child Trafficking Now to the EPC project. Natasha enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids ages 19 and 15. Mentioned in the Episode: Pawsperity website 31 Days of Kindness – sign up for the free emails Big Shifts Foundation Newhouse

"You can't truly treat people with kindness if you aren't first kind to yourself." - Dr. Dave Braun Did you know one of the most common reasons that people give on improving their health is because it gets too hard or the results take too long? Oftentimes it's because we don't approach our well-being with a wider lens, meaning we try to eat our way to good health or exercise our way to feeling better about ourselves. However, our well-being encompasses more than one area to reach the state of physical and mental wellness that we're truly seeking. Join Dr. Michelle Robin as she invites Dr. Dave Braun to share his incredibly inspiring story of living his best life – his dream job, dream house, dream family, dream cars, dream financials – only to hit rock bottom and walk through a very dark season shortly after reaching that success. He will explain what made him start becoming more self-aware of the way he was living, specifically in seven areas, which eventually led him to launch an entire brand around it called Oola Life with good friend, Dr. Troy Amdahl. Dave will explain the revelations he began to have around kindness and hope and why they were designed to work together on his journey, and why Oola Life's brand is built around both. By the end of the episode, he will also share two powerful stories of people whose lives were turned around from their encounter with the Oola message. About Today's Guest: Dr. Dave Braun has a deep-rooted commitment to empowering individuals to find balance and transform their lives. He's spent over a decade guiding people towards holistic well-being. As President, he plays a pivotal role in shaping Oola's strategic direction, leading the team in creating science-based products and transformative programs that promote life balance. Mentioned in the Episode: Oola Life Oola: Find Balance in an Unbalanced World book Oolapalooza 2023 Connect with Dr. Dave Braun 31 Days of Kindness – free to sign up Big Shifts Foundation

"Diversity is a fact, equity is a choice, inclusion is the action, and belonging is the outcome." - Dr. Diedrick Graham As we continue to celebrate our annual 31 Days of Kindness series, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Dr. Diedrick Graham to share why kindness has influenced what he does today in the world for others. During this powerful conversation, he'll reveal who helped him understand the most foundational aspects of kindness, and why their guidance taught him that no matter what's happening in the world, it should always be our goal to connect with a person and hold space for them. Dr. Diedrick will also share why we as humans are wired for connection, and how kindness created a pathway for him to seek self-improvement. This ultimately helped him finally understand what it meant to truly belong and find his purpose. By the end of the episode, listeners will be encouraged to trace the threads in their own lives to see who has impacted it and helped them become the person they are today. About Today's Guest: Dr. Diedrick Graham is the DEI and Organizational Development consultant for Margolis Healy and Associates. Dr. Graham brings over 20 years of experience as a Master Trainer, Facilitator and Mediator, making him highly qualified in the resolution of complaints, appeals, and internal grievance processes for employee/employer issues. As the former Ombudsperson at Princeton University, San Diego State University, and the University of Kansas, Vice President, Global Integrity Leader at the Nielsen in NYC, and Former Director of Human Resources at The University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Dr. Graham has a wealth of experience in resolving issues between diverse parties through distinct types of intervention and communication processes. He's also designed and taught numerous courses and workshops on communication, conflict engagement skills, JEDI, and accountability at multiple universities, corporate, and nonprofit organizations. Mentioned in the Episode: Connect with Dr. Diedrick Graham Hoffman Process Sign up for the free 31 Days of Kindness series Big Shifts Foundation

"Kindness is really rooted in love." - Cynthia Newsome It's official – the annual 31 Days of Kindness series (powered by the Big Shifts Foundation) has launched across the world, and Dr. Michelle Robin has invited a true kindness champion in the Kansas City community to celebrate it. Award-winning journalist Cynthia Newsome reveals what she's learned about kindness after being an anchor for 25 years – even through some of the world's darkest days and her battle through breast cancer – plus, why she continues to keep her heart centered on being kind. You'll also hear what inspired her to launch Awesome Ambitions for young girls in Kansas City, and how this nonprofit is reshaping these girls' futures and establishing a village around them to help navigate life. There's also an incredibly emotional story about what one group of girls chose to do for three kids at their school that showcases what kindness does for the heart. Near the end of the episode, Cynthia will also share what she believes are some missed opportunities our world is missing when it comes to kindness. About Today's Guest: Cynthia Newsome is Community Relationships Director for KSHB 41, NBC in Kansas City, Missouri. After 25 years on the air at KSHB 41, Cynthia stepped down from the anchor desk and into her new role as Community Relationships Director. Cynthia came to KSHB 41 in January of 1997. Prior to that, she was in Oklahoma City for 13 years serving as Weekend Anchor at KWTV Channel 9, and a reporter at KFOR-TV and WKY Radio. She is an award-winning journalist, whose 30-plus year career in broadcasting includes covering the Oklahoma City bombing of the Murrah Federal Building. Cynthia's reports on the lives of bombing victims are shown at the Oklahoma City Memorial and Museum of Oklahoma City. When Cynthia came to Kansas City, that's when she met and married the love of her life, Ed Newsome. He actually popped the question to Cynthia on live TV on NBC Actions News on June 13, 2001. Mentioned in the Episode: Sign up for the free 31 Days of Kindness series Awesome Ambitions Facebook page Big Shifts Foundation

"Don't be afraid to listen to what's going on in your mind – your body can speak to you." - Luke Russert As we get ready to dive into our annual 31 Days of Kindness series this year, Dr. Michelle Robin invites author of Look for Me There, Luke Russert, to talk about why processing the grief of his father's sudden passing was one of the kindest acts he ever did for himself. Rather than follow society's way of moving on as quickly as possible, Luke shares what inspired him to push pause on his life and run a self-diagnostic test to explore what he was feeling after losing his father. He'll also share some tips about what someone can do to begin tuning in to what you are feeling inside and explain why there's power in being kind to yourself and seeking what your soul needs. At the end of the show, he'll also share a kind gesture that a stranger did for him during his travels and why it remains in his heart to this day. About Today's Guest: Luke Russert is an Emmy Award-winning journalist who was an NBC News correspondent from 2008 to 2016, primarily covering American politics. Since leaving broadcast journalism, he is the author of Look for Me There, a travel memoir about his three-and-a-half-year journey around the world that took him to more than sixty-five countries. Based in Washington, DC, he is the son of journalists Maureen Orth (Vanity Fair) and the late Tim Russert (NBC's Meet the Press). Mentioned in the Episode: Look for Me There book by Luke Russert Look for Me There website 31 Days of Kindness email series – sign up for free

"Kindness is showing an investment to each other." - Darcy Swan A recent study revealed that two in three millennials don't feel like they belong in their local community. Looking a little further up the stream, another study showed that one in five students don't feel like they belong at their school. There's a growing void developing among the younger generations, who are looking for who they are in this great big world – and the YMCA wants to close that gap for them. Join Dr. Michelle Robin as she invites Darcy Swan from the Y to talk about why they've implemented specific Youth Development Services in our community to help kids find their belonging and develop a purpose in life. Darcy will also share some impactful encounters she had during her school years that led her into a teaching profession and later to the Y. The power of kindness will also become a cornerstone in this conversation, which proves how far small acts go in another person's life – such as calling someone by name or remembering what they are interested in. At the end of the show, Darcy will provide some wisdom to families looking to improve their overall well-being. About Today's Guest: Darcy Swan is Senior Vice President of Youth Development at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. She providesleadership and strategy while building relationships to advance before and after school, summer day camp, preschool, and other YMCA out-of-school time programs throughout the greater Kansas City area. Prior to joining the YMCA in 2022, she was an executive director of curriculum and instruction for Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. She started her career in education with the Shawnee Mission School District as a middle school teacher and served in multiple advancing roles in the Shawnee Mission district including district resource specialist, interim elementary principle, and elementary curriculum coordinator. The Y is the largest provider of childcare services in the greater Kansas City area, serving more than 4,600 youth a year through before- and after-school programs, in addition to 2,300 youth a year in summer day camps. The Y provides before- and after-school programs and summer-day camps in districts throughout the metro, including Blue Valley, Bonner Springs, Lansing, Leavenworth, Lee's Summit, Piper, Platte County R-3, Shawnee Mission, Spring Hill, and Turner, as well as Crossroads Charter Schools, University Academy, Ascension, and St. Ann. Mentioned in the Episode: YMCA Kansas City website YMCA locations in the U.S. Youth Development Programs at the Y 31 Days of Kindness email series – sign up for free Big Shifts Foundation website

"Eating habits are going to play a bigger role in the disease process than we've been led to believe." - Dr. Denise Scott Did you know that 70 to 80 percent of our immune cells live in our gut? Why is that important? Because what goes on in the gut communicates whether our body thrives or attacks itself. Ultimately, our gut is responsible for how our immune system responds and functions – and more importantly, it's responsible for how well we are. Join Dr. Michelle Robin as she invites Dr. Denise Scott to talk more about this fascinating connection between the gut and disease prevention. She'll share what led her down this journey of wanting to work with kids and parents, and what missed opportunities and conversations parents should be having with their kid's pediatrician. She will also provide wisdom behind what our gut needs so that the rest of our body functions well – and why the first few years of a child's life are crucial to setting the stage for their future health. About Today's Guest: Dr. Denise Scott is a pediatrician, pediatric endocrinologist, and culinary medicine specialist who is passionate about improving children's health with nutrition by educating parents. She has spent the last three decades taking care of children and wants to continue to improve their health with food as prevention. Mentioned in the Episode: AdventHealth Living in Vitality event FeedFutureHealth.com - Dr. Denise Scott's blog Book by Dr. Denise Scott – Feed Your Child's Future Health

"We all have our identity journeys." - Princess Sarah Culberson During her teenage years, Princess Sarah Culberson began to get curious about her identity, biological history, and even who she looked like. Once embarking on her journey, she learned that her biological mother died when she was 11, and her father lived in a village in Sierra Leone, West Africa. From him, she learned about her royal family, and that she is a Mahaloi, the granddaughter of a Paramount Chief, which meant Sarah is a princess. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Princess Sarah to share more of her story and the search for her family – and the extraordinary things that began to happen when her two worlds came together into one story. She also shares how her adoptive parents played a vital and positive role in learning more about her roots – plus, how their response and engagement in their community taught her about confidence. To end the show, she will also provide her best guidance to listeners around building confidence and identity, adding that if we don't take care of ourselves, it can be very difficult to operate in the world. About Today's Guest: Princess Sarah was born in Morgantown, West Virginia, to an African father and white mother. As an infant, she was put into foster care, then adopted by a loving white West Virginia family. She grew up contemplating and dealing with questions about her identity and her biracial roots. She fell in love with theatre in early childhood and won an undergrad acting scholarship to West Virginia University. She earned her MFA at The American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco and joined the Los Angeles acting community. Princess Sarah has danced and acted on stage as well as in films and television. She has been a guest performer with the Urban Latin Dance Theater Company CONTRA-TIEMPO. However, her biggest role so far came when she decided to locate her biological parents. Mentioned in the Episode: Princess Sarah's website SierraLeoneRising.org Princess Sarah's Facebook Princess Sarah's Instagram Advent 2023 LIV Event A Princess Found book by Princess Sarah The E Factor book by Dr. Michelle Robin Water.org Bridgerton tv series trailer Queen Charlotte tv series trailer AdventHealth

"When you write down what you eat, suddenly you become aware." - Stacy Cahalan Kids are establishing their school routine again, but students are still struggling to regain some aspects of what they lost during the pandemic. This results in loss of connection, loneliness, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Stacy Cahalan to share why she decided to leave her previous career path and begin helping younger generations navigate these unchartered waters. Stacy also reveals a personal story about why food can play a major role in that disconnection and the way a child feels each day. Their conversation also dives into why gut health directly impacts moods. By the end of the show, Stacy will also share more about the book she and Jane Hosey Stern wrote that helps put simple, yet powerful life lessons back into focus. About Today's Guest: One of Stacy's favorite quotes is by Emily Dickinson, "I am out with the lanterns looking for myself." All the years she's wandered the earth, she doesn't know a lot to be true, but she strongly believes that we are all doing the best we can with what we have. Sometimes we just don't have what we need. We are all better together. We are all wandering this earth trying to find purpose. And we all need help finding our way. As a Licensed Professional Therapist and Licensed School Counselor, her goal is to help people find hope. She has been called the Hope Dealer and she's cool with that. Her style is fun, direct, and focused on your here and now and your future. She has a shovel tattoo on her wrist to remind herself to dig deep and do the work. Every day, if we are lucky enough to wake up, we have another chance. She is ready to help people do their life's work with more grace, mercy, hope, and love. Mentioned in the Episode: Dr. Neal Barnard episode on dairy Learn more about the blood type diet Fed Up movie trailer Connect with Stacy at Prairie Group Girl Your Wellness Connection counseling services Stacy's book called Atlas for Good Living

"Connectivity is so important – no matter what age." - Amy Jewell A recent study showed that 2 in 5 Americans haven't made a new friend in five years due to shyness or introversion. Even more, another study revealed that the loneliness rate in America has doubled since the 1980s. That number has now reached 40 percent of adults in America, and some experts believe the "real number" may be a lot higher than that. During today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Amy Jewell from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City to share the multitude of ways their organization is helping to address the loneliness and mental health crisis for all ages. Amy will share why connection and relationships make all the difference in the world when we're going through challenges – saying that she can see relationships building everywhere you look at the YMCA. She will also explain why creating friendships can be a powerful form of therapy for kids and how some of their longest and lifelong friendships begin at the Y. About Today's Guest: Amy Jewell joined the YMCA of Greater Kansas City as the Senior Vice President of Operations in April 2023. She provides operations leadership for 11 of the Greater Kansas City Y Centers and their programs, including membership, healthy living, aquatics, youth, and family. Jewell has more than 15 years of experience in operations leadership at organizations including the Joplin YMCA in Joplin, Missouri; the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, Kansas; Central Florida YMCA in Orlando, Floraida; and the City of Mount Dora, Florida. Most recently, she was a consultant facilitating partnerships between public and private sector clients to meeting community needs in Boca Raton, Florida. Mentioned in the Episode: YMCA of Greater Kansas City YMCA locations around the U.S.

"People are beginning to get comfortable with the idea that it requires just as much planning to transition out of this world as it does to give birth and bring a new soul into this world." - Dr. Tamara MacIntyre According to a recent study, nearly half of participants (47 percent) admitted they were afraid of death. Some of those factors include fear of pain and suffering, fear of the unknown, fear of non-existence, fear of eternal punishment, fear of loss of control, and fear of what will become of our loved ones. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Dr. Tamara MacIntyre to share why there are ways a person can begin to get comfortable with the idea of dying with the help of an end-of-life doula. Dr. Tamara will also share her story of becoming this type of doula for people, and some of the greatest lessons she has learned about living through those facing death soon. She will also unpack why it's just as important to have an end-of-life doula as it is to have a birth doula. "People don't even know they can die with a level of love and peace that is outside the conventional approach," she shares during the conversation. About Today's Guest: Dr. Tamara MacIntyre, certified End of Life Doula, is also a chiropractor, doctor of functional medicine and recovering high ed administrator. Tamara is the co-founder of The PRANA Foundation (www.PranaFound.org) where she offers education, mentorship, and retreat to others serving in health and healing professions. She is passionate about assisting, fostering agency and empowerment while educating and supporting others in choosing a death that aligns with the core values that have defined the way they have chosen to live their lives. Her vision is to facilitate a space where people are more curious than afraid; acknowledging that this beautiful life is finite. Tamara offers end of life education, individualized and small group care planning and client advocacy. Mentioned in the Episode: Dr. Tamara's website The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware The Essential Questions When Planning a Good Death

"Breakdowns are breakthroughs. You go through life with multiple layers, so how can you shed those layers to get to your authentic self?" - Sarah Uchytil The demand for life coaches has steadily increased over the years as people are seeking more empowerment, connection, and conversation. According to recent statistics, 80% of clients who introduce a life coach feel that it greatly helps align their lives and helps them finally get to where they want to go. Join Dr. Michelle Robin as she invites Sarah Uchytil to talk about some fundamental reasons why a life coach is different from a therapist, what life coaches do for an individual, and why group coaching retreats can be so impactful for people. Sarah will also share what inspired her to become a life coach after a memorable encounter she had with a friend one day. By the end of the show, she'll help listeners think about three questions they can ask themselves if they are considering introducing a life coach into their lives. About Today's Guest: Sarah Uchytil is a dynamic International Coach Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC), connector, and change maker. She works with individuals on topics including empowered leadership, personal development, life balance, energy management, career transition, professional branding, LinkedIn presence, networking strategies, interview skills, salary negotiation, and goal setting. Sarah incorporates meditation into her coaching sessions to encourage her clients to grow and stretch even further than they thought possible. Meditation is a powerful tool to dissolve limiting beliefs and remove blocks which get in her client's way. Sarah believes in coaching the whole person and living a healthy well-balanced life. In 2015, Sarah became a certified yoga instructor to deepen her personal yoga practice over the last 24 years and to learn the best practices for yoga and meditation to share and incorporate with her coaching clients. Since 2017, Sarah has created and led 38 wellness retreats including yoga, meditation, life coaching, energy management, and goal setting. Sarah was named Best Resume Writer and Career Coach by the Kansas City Pitch in 2022. Feedspot.com also named Sarah's blog one of the Top 100 Global Life Coaching blogs to follow since 2018. Mentioned in the Episode: Sarah Uchytil's website Sarah Uchytil's LinkedIn Sarah Uchytil's Facebook Finding the right life coach for you

"When money is a problem, it's on your mind all the time – the stress is obvious." - Jeremy Davis According to the Federal Reserve Bank, the average American is $58,604 in debt. Additionally, at least 77 percent of American households are in some sort of debt. Today, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Jeremy Davis from CommunityAmerica Credit Union to offer encouragement to anyone who has financial goals, be it saving more, getting out of debt, or simply managing money better. He will share a personal story about who taught him about financial freedom at an early age, and how that wisdom at a young age impacted his adult years – allowing him to focus on his physical and mental health. As a Financial Well-Being Coach, he will also reveal some surprising trends among people coming in for financial advice. Jeremy ends the show by providing tools and resources for anyone looking to reach goals in our economy today. If you are looking for some simple and small steps to activate those financial goals in your life – this episode may be just what you need to get started! About Today's Guest: Jeremy Davis is a Financial Well-Being Coach at CommunityAmerica Credit Union. An advocate for financial education, he loves helping people grow their knowledge in a fun, engaging way that is easy to understand and apply to their lives. He has a deep background in finance and marketing that gives him a creative approach to making financial literacy accessible to anyone. As a Kansas City native and graduate from Kansas State University, Jeremy loves all things KC and serving his community! Mentioned in the Episode: CommunityAmerica Credit Union Community Access Centers at CommunityAmerica Financial Coaching at CommunityAmerica Where to Turn When Raising a Child with Special Needs episode with Heath Burch Quadrants of Well-Being

"While in France, we stumbled across this herd of donkeys, fell in love with them, and immediately were drawn to their Zen-like presence." - Kate Barker When Kate Barker was injured, it derailed her from her ability to compete in the 2011 London Olympics. But little did she know that her life was about to take some major turns over the next five years – ultimately, playing a major role in helping the Kansas City community get well through her donkey farm and a juicing company. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Kate to tell her story from professional athlete and corporate America employee, to unplugging from it all to launch Zen Donkey Farms. She shares the incredible healing journey she went on after exiting the Olympic scene, and how that time in her life eventually brought her back to her own farming roots. It was during a trip to France and a memorable encounter with some donkeys there that caused a lightbulb to come on about what was next for them. She'll explain how their farm began to unfold her and husband Andy's story in 2017, and how it eventually led to their successful juicing company called Zen Donkey Farms. Kate will also help define how cold-pressed juice is different from conventional juices, when the best time is to consume their juices, and what mistakes people often make when they begin incorporating a juice regime into their lives. At the end of the episode, she'll also share more about their farm's amazing nonprofit organization called the Zen Donkey Experience, which is helping people and kids experience a mind-body-soul connection by interacting with their donkeys. About Today's Guest: Kate Barker Sternberg is Founder and President of mission-driven health and wellness lifestyle brand Zen Donkey Farms, and sister nonprofit organization Zen Donkey Experience. Kate received her Bachelor of Arts in International Political Economy from The Colorado College with emphasis in Romance Languages from La Universidad de Salamanca, followed by an intensive Entrepreneurship cohort from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah. Kate spent 12 years in the technology strategy and management consulting space prior to taking the leap to full-time self-employment. Residing in rural Greenwood, Missouri, with husband Andy and rescued fur-children, Kate is a lifelong equestrian athlete, plant-based farmer, aspiring pianist, outdoor enthusiast, live theater junkie, lover of travel, and passionate advocate for the healing power of the animal/human connection. Mentioned in the Episode: Zen Donkey Farms Order Zen Donkey juices Zen Donkey Experience - Book Online Dining for Donkeys 2023 on Sept. 30, 2023 – tickets available here

Dr. Michelle Robin invites Frankie Banuelos to share what his experience has been like going through the Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship Program this year. As he's getting ready to wrap-up his six-month curriculum in the program, he reflects on some of the highlights of being part of it and how his perception and understanding of self-care has shifted since he began the journey. He also shares some of the habits he's embodied, and most of all, how his new lifestyle and mindset has translated and impacted other youth in the Kansas City area. By the end of the show, Frankie shares what he would go back and tell his younger self if he could, and how this program taught him to develop a clearer vision for his life going forward. About Today's Guest: Since 2020, Frankie Banuelos has been working as a project manager for a nonprofit organization called Young Women on the Move in Kansas City, Kansas. His primary responsibility is to facilitate and implement a program called Love Notes, which helps youths make wise choices regarding relationships and sexuality during their teenage and young adult years. Frankie's strengths lie in his excellent organizational skills, his willingness to learn and grow, and his passion for working closely with young people to help them develop skills. Mentioned in the Episode: Young Women on the Move in Kansas City Love Notes Program Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship Program Energy healing with Alex McAnderson Quadrants of Well-Being Counseling with Subrena Hicks Your Wellness Connection Center Atypical TV show on Netflix Dr. Georgia Nab at Your Wellness Connection

"I had a visceral understanding – people are dealing with some real stuff. If we don't see people as people, we can't make the progress we need to make." - Dr. Nicole Price In 2011, Dr. Nicole Price received shocking news that her mother had been hit and killed by a drunk driver. Shortlyafter, she also learned that her father wasn't her biological father. As she was navigating her late mother's four-year murder trial – and facing a shift in her identity by beginning to establish a relationship with her biological father – she was doing her best to show up every day for work as an engineer and push through the hours without giving away clues that she was struggling with emotional pain. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Dr. Price to sharewhat happened when she realized what is missing in our society – more empathy. Her story includes the epiphany she experienced, and the revelation that prepared and shaped her to write her book called Spark the Heart. She'll also explain why "doing the work" to heal is so important to our well-being, and why building your empathy muscle can shift you from looking at people – and instead get you looking into their eyes and ultimately, their hearts. About Today's Guest: Trained as an engineer, Dr. Nicole Price later found her true calling: Leadership Development. As a highly sought-after keynote speaker, training leader, and as the CEO of Lively Paradox, she believes that leadership is personal and requires a balance of empathy and accountability. Her dedication to pushing her own limits, commitment to continuous development of her empathy muscle, and her logical, results-focused, technical background combines to enhance her objective approach to solving process problems, flipping dilemmas, and leveraging understanding to find successful solutions. She prides herself on helping leaders lead effectively, while honoring who they are as individuals. Mentioned in the Episode: Spark the Heart book by Dr. Nicole Price Dr. Nicole Price's website Ancestry 23 Dr. J Dunn podcast episode

"You get to make a choice that's bigger than this moment." - Rachel Freiman Did you know Americans spend a whopping $33 billion (yes, BILLION!) on diet products every year? Yet most diet programs and products are designed to go against our human nature (to avoid pain and seek pleasure). During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Rachel Freiman to share her profound journey of going from a successful jazz musician in New York City to a major influencer in the nutrition and fitness industry. Her story tells what happened when she started exploring the health industry, finding that diet culture is all about living in an uncomfortable and self-sabotaging state, which isn't how we were designed to live. It's also why people so often fail along this path. She'll also explain what T.F.A.R. means and how it can help us navigate and break down those major life overhauls that so many people are chasing. Grab a pen to jot down some notes – this episode is packed with truth, guidance, and a high vibration of good energy! About Today's Guest: Rachel Freiman is the CEO of MindStrong Fitness, a lover of lifting heavy things up and down, and a coach passionate about helping others unleash their strongest, most empowered selves through education and mindset training. She has more than 15 years of classroom instruction, and certifications in personal training, sports nutrition, and behavior modification. She has studied the Neuroscience of Nutrition under the renowned Dr. Nicole Avena, visiting professor of Neuroscience at Princeton University. Rachel is the author of the bestselling book Becoming MindStrong: The Truth About Health, Fitness, and the Bullsh*t That's Holding You Back. She developed MindStrong Fitness with an inside-out approach, to focus on both physical and mental attributes in building healthy, sustainable habits. When she's not in the gym, Rachel enjoys exploring the world, snuggling with her puppy, Charlie, eating, and thinking about the next time she'll be eating. Mentioned in the Episode: Becoming MindStrong book by Rachel Freiman MindStrong Fitness website Power vs. Force book by Dr. David Hawkins Quadrants of Well-Being

"The source is more complex than the symptoms.'" - Debra Campbell A recent CivicScience poll revealed that the number of U.S. adults who reported taking at least one prescription medication per day now is 70 percent – a 14 percentage-point increase since 2019. Many people often come in to be treated for one thing, but rarely is it a singular issue in the body. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Debra Campbell to share why a multidimensional holistic approach is how where people get better – especially on the mental health front. Debra will also explain her own journey into the mental health landscape, and what inspired her to co-found Curis Functional Health – an organization that helps unlock people's optimal health through physical, mental, and nutritional care. To end the show, she will also explain why mental health symptoms - such as depression - can be a culprit of other issues going on in the body. About Today's Guest: Debra Campbell is the Chief Vision Officer at Curis Functional Health. She is a regional expert in PACT Couples Counseling, a style of relationship counseling that helps couples rebuild safety in their relationships using attachment theory, affect regulation, and neuroscience. She is one of approximately 50 PACT Level 3 candidates in the U.S. and is often featured on the radio, podcasts, and social media. With her unique background in applied sport psychology and positive psychology, Debra has worked extensively with professional athletes, CEOs, entrepreneurs, doctors, attorneys, and Olympic athletes. Her passion for getting clients to their optimal functioning was born out of her studies in elite domain performance and research on perfectionism. Previously, she worked with the U.S. Olympic Training Center, the U.S. Figure Skating Association, the International Center for Talent Development, Spectrum Club (South Bay), and The Sports Club (LA). She co-founded and sits on the board of the Relational Therapists of Dallas. She is the Past President of the Dallas Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Her research has been presented at regional and national conferences for the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Mentioned in the Episode: Curis Functional Health The PACT Institute The Gottman Method Your Wellness Connection Small Changes Big Shifts Quadrants of Well-Being TouchPoints Big Shifts Foundation

"There's a part of the person that knows something is wrong, but they live with it for so long that they've learned to adapt around it.'" - Greg Helsel A National Survey of Children's Health data showed approximately 30 percent of children experience one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs) - excluding external factors – and about 14 percent experienced two or more. Another study said that 1 in 6 adults experienced four or more types of ACEs in their lifetime. During today's show, Dr. Robin invites Greg Helsel to unpack what some of those ACEs people often experience in life and why it can disrupt their life and cause them to get stuck. He will also share some reasons people choose not to seek a therapist – everything from shame to their vulnerability of being wounded from previous help. Greg also explains some key landmarks that have changed about therapy in the last 10 years – including the accessibility for it being much easier than it used to be. He'll provide some helpful ways someone can take their first steps if they are ready to seek help. About Today's Guest: Greg Helsel is the Clinical Director of Behavioral Health at AdventHealth in Kansas City. His commitment to his patients is the same mission he carries to his friends, families, and community; to end needless suffering. Through AcceleratedResolution Therapy, he has been granted the opportunity to assist people in letting go of heavy burdens, restoring themselves to a healthy and productive life. Mentioned in the Episode: The Body Keeps the Score book by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Behavioral Health Department at AdventHealth Outpatient Clinic at AdventHealth in Shawnee Mission: (913) 789-3218

"When people come in and talk about stress, I find that it's actually anxiety they are facing.'" - Subrena Hicks Did you know that anxiety is the most common mental health issue in the world? Moreover, other studies say that 1 in 5 adults don't receive therapy services to address their mental health. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites licensed therapist Subrena Hicks to share her mission on breaking the stigmas around mental health. She'll share insights about what she's been noticing with stress and anxiety today – and why there are repercussions in the body when we aren't able to understand which one we're experiencing. She'll also explain why many adults struggle with anxiety and why therapy can help them develop the right coping skills to lessen the buildup of anxiety in the body. Subrena ends the show with some tips around kids and mental health, providing some guidance on when parents should consider therapy for them. She'll discuss why we need to be teaching the younger generations that it's okay to start talking about what's going on, labeling their feelings, and finding someone outside of the family who can model these tools for them. About Today's Guest: Subrena Hicks is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas. She strives to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment while showing compassion to help identify current life stresses, and create new, healthier patterns. She believes in helping people overcome life's struggles by focusing on each person's individual needs, and meeting people where they are at. She received her bachelor's in business administration and management from Friends University and completed her Master of Arts in Counseling at MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2016. She is currently a Nationally Certified Counselor and works with a variety of clients such as individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. Her treatment approach to therapy is Experiential and attachment based. Mentioned in the Episode: Love in Gray Counseling website Love in Gray Counseling Therapy Toolbox Love in Gray Facebook page Loving What Is by Byron Katie Big Shifts Foundation Counseling at Your Wellness Connection Quadrants of Well-Being Hoffman Process Feelings and Emotion Chart for Kids PsychologyToday.com to find a therapist in your area Therapy for Black Girls

"This is something that connected our region like never before.'" - Eileen Weir There's a famous saying that goes, "It only takes one tree to start a forest, one smile to begin a friendship... one thought to change the world" and that's exactly what happened in the Kansas City community through the Parade of Hearts that began from one drawing on a napkin. During its last auction in 2022, it raised more than $2 million for Kansas City charities. During today's episode, Dr. Michelle invites Jenn Nussbeck and Eileen Weir to share how this project began, the doors that it opened in our community, and the opportunity it provided to build connections with people in different neighborhoods across the metro. They also explain why public art has become a crucial piece to our community's well-being and why it evoked certain senses for the people who live here. Jenn will also tell a moving story about two people who met at one of the hearts and how that location formed their new friendship. At the end of the episode, they will give listeners an exclusive update about what's next for the Parade of Hearts in Kansas City, which means you will be the first to hear it on this episode! About Today's Guests: Jenn Nussbeck is the Parade of Hearts Executive Director. She has served on numerous public charity boards as well as dedicated the last 15 years supporting organizations throughout communities in Kansas City. Assisting those navigating the philanthropy and civic channels is not only her work, but her passion. Jenn was born in San Diego but raised in Kansas City. She comes from a large Irish family. Her great uncle (Pat O'Neill Sr.) started the Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade with Mike Murphy. Eileen Weir was elected Mayor of the City of Independence, Missouri, in 2014. Prior to her election, she served on the Independence City Council representing the city's 4th District from 2012 to 2014. She began her career in communications and public relations with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1992, acting as the team's Manager of Public Information and Media Services. She served as the Chiefs Charity Game Coordinator from 2009 to 2013 for the Children's Center for the Visually Impaired and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. Eileen and her husband Tom live in southwestern Independence with their twins, John and Nora. Mentioned in the Episode: Parade of Hearts website Parade of Hearts mobile app Parade of Hearts on Facebook Parade of Hearts on Instagram Parade of Hearts on Twitter The story about the heart at Your Wellness Connection

"When I started taking the cofactors to get vitamin D into my body, immediately my brain chemistry turned on and I thought, 'This is what happy feels like.'" - Dr. J Dunn This month, Dr. Michelle Robin has invited a series of guests on the show to speak about the mental health crisis happening - something that has been a problem long before the pandemic hit. To kick off the series, she's invited Dr. J Dunn, who has been creating waves within the mental health landscape by unveiling why gene expression could be causing a rise in brain imbalances such as depression, anxiety, as well as other disorders and conditions. Dr. Dunn shares an incredibly powerful story about her own battle with depression, and how epigenetics played a significant role in how she began to heal from it. She'll also tell the story about what got her curious to go down this path, and how it began to translate into her own clients and resulted in her founding My Happy Genes. By the end of the show, she'll explain why understanding gene expression can help us be more compassionate towards other human beings. This episode is not only packed with helpful tips, but it's also a helpful introduction to why our genes play a critical role in the way everything else works in the body. About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Dr. J Dunn has been practicing natural medicine for over 30 years. She is a Chiropractic Physician and certified in Functional Medicine. She is an internationally known lecturer on genetics and nutrition, teaching physicians around the world on how to use genetic information to get to the underlying causes of disease. Her drive to understand true causes and her passion for helping those who are suffering with depression, anxiety, and attention issues has led her to create her program. She is the author of the books Wholistic Kinesiology and Perfect Health in Paradise. Mentioned in the Episode: My Happy Genes Wholistic Kinesiology book by Dr. J Dunn Perfect Health in Paradise book by Dr. J Dunn Dr. Georgia Nab at Your Wellness Connection Dr. J Dunn speaking at Dr. Robin's 25th year anniversary launch

"We need the skills of people on the spectrum." - Dr. Temple Grandin We are bringing you a very special episode this week as it marks the end of our series on Autism Acceptance Month. In today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Dr. Temple Grandin to share the significant impact that early intervention had on her future and how it elevated the quality of life that she lives today. She tells her remarkable journey on the spectrum – everything from not speaking until she was four years old to becoming one of the most recognized autistic advocates, professor, best-selling author, and the person who changed the cattle industry forever going forward with her visual thinking designs. Dr. Temple tells how her mother and a science teacher, Dr. Carlock, were highly influential in helping her reach her potential. She also explains why she's an advocate today in bringing back those hands-on classes to encourage those inventor and curious mindsets – especially for kids on the spectrum. She tells a humbling story about how her journey to the Hollywood screen started out doing very small things in the autistic community, and how she met people along the way who continued to propel her teachings and bring visual thinking more forward into our world and help it gain acceptance. About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Dr. Temple Grandin was one of the first autistic people to document the insights she gained from her personal experience of autism. She is one of the world's most respected experts in the fields of autism and animal behavior and livestock handling. As a toddler, she had speech delays as well as other signs of severe autism. Many hours of speech therapy and intensive training ultimately enabled Dr. Grandin to speak. Mentoring by a high school science teacher and exposure to her aunt's ranch in Arizona motivated her to pursue a career as a scientist and livestock equipment designer. She is a prolific speaker, internationally best-selling author, and Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. In 2020, she was honored as a Top Ten College Professor in America. In 2010, Times 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, named her in the "Heroes" category. She was also the subject of the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning semi-biographical film called Temple Grandin. Desiree Cole is the Content Director and Brand Manager at Small Changes Big Shifts. She creates, writes, and manages the voice and content for the brand. She has loved all things wellness since she was introduced to the lifestyle in college, where she learned to cook more plant-based food and care for the whole body in holistic ways. She began her journalism career in Chicago and New York City, where she worked in Manhattan as an editor for news agencies, magazines, and book publishing. She's part of the Small Changes Big Shifts team because she believes words are powerful messengers to the spirit, heart, and mind. Desiree was born and raised in Kansas City and believes there's no place like it. Her husband (Zach), son (Ollie), and two golden retrievers (Linus and Lucy) live in a loud and happy house with its eight paws and a very joyful little boy who loves them. Mentioned in the Episode: Temple Grandin movie with Claire Danes Visual Thinking book by Dr. Temple Grandin Different Not Less book by Dr. Temple Grandin Dr. Temple Grandin's other books Wellness on the Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin

"There's something about these kids just getting on the field or court because it's their turn to try." - Raegan Shurr Research shows that early intervention for kids with autism spectrum disorder can significantly improve their quality of life as they grow older. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Raegan Schurr to share how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City has built something called the Challenger Program that helps these kids fulfill some of those critical early intervention needs through sports and teamwork. Raegan explains why they have cultivated an environment that helps parents let their guard down and watch their kids explore and grow by learning about patience, why it's important to show up on time, how to be a good teammate, and so much more. With over 300 volunteers across Kansas City who are giving their time to impact these kids' lives, the Challenger Program has multiple benefits for early intervention learning opportunities. At the end of the show, Raegan shares a heartfelt story about a boy who was in the Challenger Program many years ago, and why he decided to return when he was older to pay that kindness forward. About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Raegan Schurr is the Senior Director of Adaptive Programs for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. Having been with the YMCA movement for 29 years, her greatest love has been working with individuals with disabilities and the many volunteers through the Challenger Program. She also holds certification for faculty trainer for YUSA 's Strengthening Inclusion: Engaging Communities of Diverse Abilities and is a founding member of the Access and Ability Network. When not on the field or court with Challenger, you will find her on a golf course or enjoying music by her firepit with friends. Desiree Cole is the Content Director and Brand Manager at Small Changes Big Shifts. She creates, writes, and manages the voice and content for the brand. She has loved all things wellness since she was introduced to the lifestyle in college, where she learned to cook more plant-based food and care for the whole body in holistic ways. She began her journalism career in Chicago and New York City, where she worked in Manhattan as an editor for news agencies, magazines, and book publishing. She's part of the Small Changes Big Shifts team because she believes words are powerful messengers to the spirit, heart, and mind. Desiree was born and raised in Kansas City and believes there's no place like it. Her husband (Zach), son (Ollie), and two golden retrievers (Linus and Lucy) live in a loud and happy house with its eight paws and a very joyful little boy who loves them. Mentioned in the Episode: The Challenger Program at the YMCA YMCA Challenger on Facebook Fred and Shirley Pryor YMCA Sports Complex YMCA Greater Kansas City YMCA around the country

"This experience awoken a grace in me towards other parents." - Diana Toman Parenting can open new doors to community. While kids may be different from one another, parents are still able to speak the same language and navigate similar things happening in their lives. However, raising a child with autism spectrum disorder or other special needs can be a different experience for a parent – one that comes with a realization that you aren't speaking the same language as everybody else. These parents say isolation can be the hardest part of the journey. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Diana Toman to tell her story about raising her son who is on the spectrum, graduating high school, and soon entering college. She shares some of the challenges and triumphs that came while raising him in those early years, and why support and community made a difference in her family's life and her well-being. Diana also provides some guidance and advice to co-host Desiree Cole, whose son is also on the spectrum and beginning his journey into school and the community. By the end of the episode, Diana explains why she has no doubt that God selected her to raise her son, and that every parent should trust that they are the right parent whether they are raising a neurotypical or neurodivergent child. About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Diana Toman is the CEO of Toman Advisory Group and a former Fortune 500 Chief Legal Officer, who has parlayed years of large company experience into an advisory firm focused on corporate governance, ESG, risk management, and strategy. She is a mom of two teenagers, Parker and Reagan, passionate about being involved in the community, and advocate for the things she believes in. Desiree Cole is the Content Director and Brand Manager at Small Changes Big Shifts. She creates, writes, and manages the voice and content for the brand. She has loved all things wellness since she was introduced to the lifestyle in college, where she learned to cook more plant-based food and care for the whole body in holistic ways. She began her journalism career in Chicago and New York City, where she worked in Manhattan as an editor for news agencies, magazines, and book publishing. She's part of the Small Changes Big Shifts team because she believes words are powerful messengers to the spirit, heart, and mind. Desiree was born and raised in Kansas City and believes there's no place like it. Her husband (Zach), son (Ollie), and two golden retrievers (Linus and Lucy) live in a loud and happy house with its eight paws and a very joyful little boy who loves them. Mentioned in the Episode: The Joshua Center Your Wellness Connection Toman Advisory Group

"It's the small choices we make that determine the rest of our lives." - Robyn Rosenberger Each year, more than three million children are hospitalized – either for procedures or ongoing treatment for chronic or terminal illness. Additionally, one in six children have a disability in the U.S. such as autism, ADHD, Aspergers, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, to name a few. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Robyn Rosenberger to share her awe-inspiring story about what led her to become the founder of TinySuperheroes in 2013 to help these kids fight unimaginable battles. Since launching her tiny cape organization, she has served over 120,000 children and families by providing capes for each child. Robyn shares how it all started with a little girl named Brenna and tells how the organization has evolved into ways these kids can experience extracurricular activities since 80% of them almost never get to participate in them. By the end of the episode, your heartstrings will be pulled by some of the powerful encounters she has had with kids who have received her capes and all the ways it has transformed their lives by giving them courage and strength. About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Robyn Rosenberger is a passionate and dedicated entrepreneur who is committed to making a positive impact in the world. As the founder and CEO of TinySuperheroes, a social enterprise that empowers children with disabilities or illnesses, Robyn has helped thousands of children to embrace their inner strength and courage. Her organization has been featured in numerous media outlets, including CNN, NBC News, and The Huffington Post. She is an inspiring example of a mission-driven entrepreneur who is passionate about building for-profit businesses that create social impact. She believes that businesses can be a force for good. Robyn's commitment to building a profitable business that makes a difference has resulted in a growing community of supporters and advocates who share her passion for social entrepreneurship. Through her work, she is a true champion for those who face adversity. She is dedicated to helping every other child feel like a superhero and inspiring others to make a positive difference in the world. Desiree Cole is the Content Director and Brand Manager at Small Changes Big Shifts. She creates, writes, and manages the voice and content for the brand. She has loved all things wellness since she was introduced to the lifestyle in college, where she learned to cook more plant-based food and care for the whole body in holistic ways. She began her journalism career in Chicago and New York City, where she worked in Manhattan as an editor for news agencies, magazines, and book publishing. She's part of the Small Changes Big Shifts team because she believes words are powerful messengers to the spirit, heart, and mind. Desiree was born and raised in Kansas City and believes there's no place like it. Her husband (Zach), son (Ollie), and two golden retrievers (Linus and Lucy) live in a loud and happy house with its eight paws and a very joyful little boy who loves his dogs. Mentioned in the Episode: TinySuperheroes website Nominate a child at TinySuperheroes Sponsor a cape for a child TinySuperheroes Mission Program John O'Leary

"The families we serve can feel isolated – even scared at times. We want to provide a tangible first step that brings comfort and creates a path." - Heath Burch The latest research shows 1 in 44 children are on the autism spectrum – a major change from the early 2000s when those numbers were 1 in 150. While environmental factors are something to consider, researchers say we have made advances over time that have helped build a greater understanding and awareness to it. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Heath Burch from CommunityAmerica Credit Union to talk about their Special Needs Planning Center. Heath shares an inspiring and personal story about why he and his business partner, Scott Adams, decided to launch this center. Both of them quickly realized that families oftentimes felt stuck when raising a child with special needs. They couldn't rely on a book or course to walk them through each of their unique situations – which is what inspired them to do something about it. Today, they have helped guide and connect thousands of families to resources that may be available to them. They have helped create a path forward for families to be better equipped and financially prepared to raise a special needs child in the now, but also provide hope for the road ahead. Desiree Cole, one of Heath's clients, joins in on the conversation to speak to what the Special Needs Planning Center has done for her family as they begin raising their son who is on the spectrum. We encourage you to share this episode with any friends or family who may benefit from having this resource introduced in their lives! About Today's Guest and Co-Host: Helping members create a path to their financial goals drive Heath Burch's passion for being an advisor. His focus is to leverage two decades of experience as an advisor to help members navigate their complex financial planning needs. From integrating wealth management plans with trust and estate plans to diversifying wealth in a business, he empowers members to manage the transition of their wealth to the next generation. Heath has also dedicated focus on assisting families who have loved ones with special needs, building plans that can support more than one generation. His wife, Martha, and three sons are invested in being involved in the Kansas City community that they love. He currently sits as the President of the Board for Variety Children's Charity of Kansas City and as chair of the Board of Directors for the Liberty Education Foundation. Desiree Cole is the Content Director and Brand Manager at Small Changes Big Shifts. She creates, writes, and manages the voice and content for the brand. She has loved all things wellness since she was introduced to the lifestyle in college, where she learned to cook more plant-based and care for the whole body in holistic ways. She began her journalism career in Chicago and New York City, where she worked in Manhattan as an editor for news agencies, magazines, and book publishing. She's part of the Small Changes Big Shifts team because she believes words are powerful messengers to the spirit, heart, and mind. Desiree was born and raised in Kansas City, and believes there's no place like it. Her husband (Zach), son (Ollie), and two golden retrievers (Linus and Lucy) live in a loud and happy house from its eight paws and the most joyful little boy in the world who loves his dogs. Mentioned in the Episode: Connect with Heath at CommunityAmerica Credit Union CommunityAmerica Credit Union website Special Needs Planning Center website Securities and advisory services offered through Copper Financial Network, LLC ("Copper Financial"), Member FINRA/SIPC. Copper Financial is a SEC registered investment adviser. Products offered through Copper Financial: are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of the credit union, and may involve investment risk, including possible loss of principal. Copper Financial is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Special Needs Planning Center is a marketing name used by Copper Financial.

Today's show is a special treat as Dr. Michelle Robin is celebrating her 57th birthday this weekend. During her solo episode today, she spends some moments reflecting on the things that she and our listeners have learned from all of our guests on the show in the last few months. She'll also tee up what's to come on the podcast in the next few months and they are some near and dear topics to her heart. To end the show, she will also explain some wellness tips she's embodied over this last year and the things she's taking with her as she walks into this new year of life. She wraps up with some tips about how you can celebrate this year with her, and how you can watch some changes she's been seeing in the younger generations through the Big Shifts Foundation. Mentioned in the Episode: Big Shifts Foundation birthday fundraiser Big Shifts Foundation scholarship Big Shifts Foundation new video Big Shifts Foundation website Sit in Peace meditation video Dr. Robin's 30 lessons Isaac Lee Collins episode Kim Newton episode Whitney Bartelli episode Brett Blair episode Dr. Heath and Nicole Wilt episode Mark Hulet episode Dr. Michelle Dew episode Dr. Georgia Nab episode Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer episode Brooke Seiz episode Amy Grothaus episode

"Counseling helped me befriend my nervous system." - Brooke Seiz Did you know we only need one teaspoon of sugar in our body at a time? During today's episode, Dr. Robin invites Brooke Seiz to unpack why sugar can oftentimes be a culprit for anxiety. Brooke shares what inspired her to become a counselor and functional medicine practitioner for others, including her own bout with anxiety, an eating disorder, and other mental health challenges. She goes on to describe why there can often be many root causes of anxiety, but when our blood sugar levels are too high or low, our cortisol levels (stress response) get activated and we easily enter that fight or flight mode. Brooke also covers how sugar is often disguised on labels, and how fast our bodies can experience inflammation (even pain) after we consume too much sugar. By the end of the episode, she'll provide some ways you can test if sugar may be causing problems. She'll also provide what foods can help aid in regulating sugar levels. Grab a pen and paper – this episode is packed with helpful tips! About Today's Guest: Brooke Seiz with Evolve Wellness & Counseling helps individuals as well as couples find a better quality of life, fulfillment in their relationships, and comfort in their body through counseling and functional nutrition. She is a licensed counselor and helps individuals as well as couples in therapy to befriend their nervous systems using Somatic Experiencing and in turn improve trauma, PTSD, anxiety, as well as binge and emotional eating. She also provides sex therapy to individuals and couples, in addition to couples' therapy. For those interested in functional nutrition, she takes a deep dive into gut, hormonal. health and more to address the root cause for their symptoms with nutrition and lifestyle interventions. Brooke is a mom of three awesome young people, and also enjoys going out to sing at local music venues with her spouse. She's grateful to be involved with the Small Changes Big Shifts team and mission! Mentioned in the Episode: Connect with Brooke Seiz on LinkedIn Evolve Wellness & Counseling Signos CGM technology – glucose monitor Glucose Goddess on Instagram Resistance Starch

"Overseeing your own health is so valuable – and we're at the cusp of it in America. We are giving people the information that can finally help themselves in a unique way." - Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer Did you know trillions of dollars are being poured into chronic conditions in America – and many of them are unknowingly rooted in glucose challenges or mismanagement? During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer to share his reasons for co-founding Signos – a CGM technology that shows how your body uniquely reacts to what you eat, plus other lifestyle factors such as stress patterns and sleep habits that are affecting your glucose levels. Sharam tells his personal journey of weight management issues growing up and why he finally figured out that glucose spikes and dips were causing more harm on the overall body than he realized. He explains how Signos technology works and some stories of people who have tried everything from diets to exercise, but the Signos CGM monitor is the first thing that has made them feel empowered to see what their bodies need on an individual level to reach their goals. Sharam also unpacks why glucose monitoring is not just for people who have diabetes, and why this can be a powerful tool in life to manage pain, weight management, increase energy, and even impact mental health. About Today's Guest: Growing up in upstate New York, Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer fluctuated between obese, overweight, athletic, and back again before he founded Signos to tackle the obesity epidemic in America. Sharam is also the Board Director and Co-Founder at Onclusive, an Al software company to measure the impact of PR, as well as originally serving as the company's founding CEO. Prior to Onclusive, he was an entrepreneur in residence at Shasta Ventures focused on consumer internet and the social graph. Before joining Shasta, Sharam was a Venture Capitalist at Sierra Ventures and served on the Board at Makara (sold to RedHat) and TouchCommerce (sold to Nuance). Sharam began his career as an early employee at Appian (NASDAQ:APPN), a low-code software company. He graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Princeton University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He played NCAA D-1 ice hockey and lives with his family in California. Mentioned in the Episode: Signos website What is Signos? Dr. Georgia Nab's podcast Signos is hiring

"Blood sugar is like comparing water to Kool-Aid – while water flows through our body, Kool-Aid can't flow as well because it's stickier. When we have too much sugar in our bloodstream, our body has a harder time carrying out the processes it needs to." - Dr. Georgia Nab About 1 in 5 people in the United States have diabetes but don't know it, according to the CDC. While people generally know sugar isn't good for the body, most people don't know why our consumption of it needs to be managed – not eliminated. In today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Dr. Georgia Nab – a Functional Medicine doctor at Your Wellness Connection – to help people understand what's really happening in the body once we consume sugar and why it's then converted to blood sugar. If you have ever wondered what glycemic and glucose mean – or the difference between metabolic syndrome (prediabetes), Type I, Type I.5, Type II, and Type III – this week's episode will give you a clearer understanding of each one in very simple terms. Dr. Nab even dives into how our blood sugar numbers have a tremendous impact on our hormonal levels and anxiety issues in today's world. She encourages listeners that small changes can make a big difference. At the end of the episode, Dr. Nab will also share why sleep and movement matter in managing your blood sugar – ending with some tips that can help you get on a better path toward wellness. About Today's Guest: Dr. Georgia Nab entered the chiropractic industry in 1992 by owning a chiropractic clinic in Wichita, Kansas. From 2012 through 2017, she joined a manufacturing facility in Wisconsin to provide chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, and educational training to the employees at the company's corporate headquarters. While there, she authored her book called 1 Degree of Change, in addition to numerous other publications. In 2015, she graduated with her Master's degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine degree. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Western States for their Master's program. Dr. Nab is a Certified Nutrition Specialist from the Board for Nutrition Specialist and works with Affiliated Monitors, an independent monitoring company for professionals. Mentioned in the Episode: Your Wellness Connection 1 Degree of Change book by Dr. Georgia Nab – contact Dr. Nab for a free PDF version

"Our CEO was very passionate about making a positive impact in our community, and what better way to do that than to give people a direct connection to the resources that they need, all in one single place." – Amy Grothaus Many people don't know where to turn when they have a goal in life, especially when it's a financial one. CommunityAmerica Credit Union is an advocate for changing that, and they are doing it through their brand-new Community Access Center in Kansas City. During today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Amy Grothaus to talk about what this center is helping to fulfill in our community. The space is designed to promote the overall well-being of its all who enter its door. The entire 6,000-square-foot top floor is occupied by the Metropolitan Community College (MCC), which offers classes and other educational support to compliment the resources that CommunityAmerica provides. Their goal is to help break down barriers of banking and promote financial literacy for all, but to also to connect individuals with the support and resources they need to achieve overall well-being, beyond financial needs. Certified Financial Well-being coaches are on-site to help their visitors achieve as many of their goals as possible. Tune in as Amy shares more about how this building is designed, plus why they have a heart to see people step into their brightest future by introducing them to all the resources, organizations, and nonprofits available as they journey through life. About Today's Guests: Amy Grothaus is the Senior Vice President of Community Development at CommunityAmerica Credit Union in Kansas City. She is a motivated, passionate, and results-driven leader with experience in overseeing and directing member/customer experience and sales initiatives for organizations in the financial services industry. She has 20 years of expertise in customer service, retention and loyalty, strategic planning, and relationship building. Amy has proven results in launching new initiatives, driving sales, and technology implementation. She is a trusted visionary with the ability to energize teams, partner cross-functionally, and influence at all levels. Mentioned in the Episode: CommunityAmerica Credit Union website - Search for "Access Center" Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship Program

"You have to feed both hearts – the one in your chest and the one that is upstairs." - Dr. Michelle Dew As we continue to celebrate the heart this month – both mechanically and emotionally – Dr. Michelle Robin has invited a cardiologist on the show today to share why the heart encompasses so much of how we experience life around us. Dr. Michelle Dew shares her inspiring journey of becoming a cardiologist, including how one family emergency greatly impacted her. Her encounter with a remarkable doctor and their energy in a room will remind listeners how important every individual is on earth – because you never know when (or how) your presence will change someone's life forever. At the end of the episode, Dr. Dew explains why joy is a vital part of our well-being, why the heart needs it, and how she founds hers. About Today's Guest: Dr. Michelle Dew is a Board-certified cardiologist with AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology & Cardiovascular Surgery. She joined AdventHealth in 2022 and provides general cardiology care to Lawrence-area patients within our Primary Care in Lawrence. Her clinic interests include women's cardiac issues including during pregnancy and menopause, men's cardiac care, and general cardiac care such as prevention, maintenance and pre- and post-surgical care. In addition to having earned a reputation for providing excellent, compassionate patient care, Dr. Dew is well-respected among her peers as a standout physician leader and cardiology expert. Her passion for patient education and her vast clinical and leadership experience have earned her countless honors, including being named a Kansas City Top Doctor by Ingram's Magazine in 2021 and 2022. Dr. Dew's personal interests include family and friends, dogs, reading, hiking, flying kites, traveling, playing spades, dominoes and board games, and riding dressage. Mentioned in the Episode: The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu AdventHealth Wellness on a Shoestring Book by Dr. Michelle Robin

"We're all connected to serve." - Mark Hulet Mark Hulet's life was forever changed when he decided to leave football coaching days behind him and take a job at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where he would serve for the next 22 years in a variety of roles. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Mark to share his journey with the Y, and how this organization brings people in from the community to build a connection with others. Because this month's theme is about heart, Mark will also share how the Y supports the heart for people – not just physically, but mentally and spiritually as well. People may come in to get on a treadmill or take a swim, but he shares that once they come inside and get to know the "heart" of the organization, a lifetime relationship is made. At the end of the episode, Mark shares his dream of being able to take people forward with all the seeds they are currently planting in our community. About Today's Guest: When Mark Hulet left college, he began college football coaching. But after bouncing around from city to city with his young family, they decided to permanently move back to Kansas City where he landed his first job at the YMCA, now 22 years ago. Mark has been with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City ever since that day, serving in a variety of roles. Today, he is the Interim President & CEO of the YMCA in KC. The reason he has stayed with the YMCA all these years is because of the people. He especially loves being able to see the connection kids, families, and seniors are making here within their community. Mentioned in the Episode: YMCA – Find a location near you in the U.S. YMCA of Greater Kansas City Drive-thru food pantries at the YMCA

"Happy and healthy people do great things." - Nicole Wilt Did you know 80% of cardiovascular events may be preventable? In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Heath Wilt and Nicole Wilt to share what they are doing to help families better understand the different ways they can prevent heart trouble. Through their family-owned business called ABC's of Health, this husband-and-wife duo shares why their kids inspired this movement for them, and why they are advocating for other families to discover their rhythm around wellness. Dr. Heath, who is a cardiologist at AdventHealth in Kansas City, also shares some ways that practitioners are viewing the heart differently now – specifically the emotional component becoming a more prominent connection to heart health. As a certified yoga instructor, Nicole also explains how they encourage their kids to embrace big feelings and the other emotional weight that comes with life – teaching them that there are many elements that impact their heart such as what's on their plate, getting them in the kitchen, and teaching them what certain nutrients do for their mind and body. At the end of the show, Dr. Heath and Nicole share what advice they would give parents and to anyone looking for that first step to get in better tune with your heart and emotional well-being. About Today's Guests: Heath Wilt and Nicole Wilt are the co-founders of ABC's of Health. Between Heath's knowledge of wellness as a cardiologist and Nicole's expertise as a certified yoga instructor, they are on a mission to share information about cardiovascular health, heart-healthy recipe ideas, and inspiration for living a more active life for the spirit, mind, and body. They encourage people to follow along as they share their adventures along with their three boys, who helped inspire and name their movement. Mentioned in the Episode: ABC's of Health Cardiac score description ABC's of Health on Facebook ABC's of Health on Instagram ABC's of Health on TikTok AdventHealth Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship Small Changes Big Shifts

"A new level of presence came to me, and I don't want to lose what I learned from her." - Brett Blair Our lives take us through turbulent seasons. Most of us wait for a page to turn – a new chapter to begin – and sometimes, it feels like we've finally reached happiness and the life we were born to live. But what happens when that newfound happiness is shattered with a shocking diagnosis – especially if it's the love of your life? In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Brett Blair to share his story about love, loss, and what it means to flourish in the hardest season of all. Shortly after meeting his soulmate Kim, Brett shares how their time together was cut short when his healthy, vibrant wife was unexpectedly diagnosed with ALS and passed away just 12 months after the news was delivered. Brett will share the most impactful lessons he learned from Kim as she battled the disease, such as how to love other people in a way that he didn't know was possible. Through his journey, he's compiling his next book about these lessons and explains how he's learned to tune into his heart to heal and flourish again – taking with him this time everything Kim taught him. About Today's Guest: Brett Blair is the founder and president of Best Life Global, LLC. Headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, Best Life Global is an executive coaching and consulting company, providing personalized business growth, executive and life coaching, training, and organizational consulting services. He's published two books, From Autopilot to Authentic and Living at the Summit, and is currently working on his next book called Born-Love-Die. He is a keynote speaker on a variety of subjects relative to peak performance, and the founder of the Best Life Movement, a nonprofit organization that aims to help people live their unique best lives. Brett lives in Durham, North Carolina, and is active with his church and nonprofit organizations. He also enjoys long-distance running, snow skiing, and travel. Mentioned in the Episode: From Autopilot to Authentic by Brett Blair Living at the Summit by Brett Blair Flourish by Martin Seligman Brett Blair's LinkedIn

"My passion was to find a career that I felt like I was helping people." - Whitney Bartelli Money can enable us to do the things we love – take vacations, buy things we want, and even help us celebrate the big milestones. However, money can also block us in ways, too. When we are financially unwell (in debt or unable to save), anxiety builds up in our body – causing us to miss some of life's greatest moments because we're worried about the future – even tomorrow. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Whitney Bartelli to share more about those barriers that money can create in our life – and how it can even derail us from discovering our purpose in life. She will share a few stories about how she fell into her purpose, but also why having a financial plan was crucial to her getting to this point in her life. By the end of the episode, she will provide some small steps someone can take to get on a financially healthy road – and ultimately, get that much closer to living their best life and fulfilling their purpose. About Today's Guest: Whitney Bartelli serves as the Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer at CommunityAmerica Credit Union, overseeing the areas of brand strategy and brand growth, content strategy, social and digital engagement and management, product development, member/corporate communications and community engagement. Whitney leads high-level strategic, data-driven initiatives that directly impact sales growth and each line of business at CommunityAmerica. With a people-helping-people focus, Whitney's teams are focused on elevating CommunityAmerica's brand and connecting Kansas Citians to its mission of helping members to achieve financial peace of mind. Mentioned in the Episode: CommunityAmerica Credit Union Financial Planning at CommunityAmerica Credit Union Community Access Centers Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union is insured by NCUA. Profit Payout. Dividend is discretionary and approved annually by CommunityAmerica's Board of Directors. Amounts advertised are representative of actual dividends paid in 2023. Dividend is not guaranteed and may vary based on criteria established by CommunityAmerica Credit Union and the total amount allocated by the Board of Directors each year. Not everyone receives a dividend and member must be in good standing and meet other criteria on processing date to qualify. Dividends are reported to IRS and a 1099 form will be issued at year-end. Any applicable taxes are the responsibility of recipient. All loans subject to approval. High Interest Savings. Top of market according to S&P Global Deposit Ranking Report – Kansas City Metro Area as of January 19, 2022. First Tier: 3.92% – 4.00% APY from $1.00 – $1,500, if First Tier qualifications are met. Second Tier: 0.025% APY on $1,500.01 or more, and on balance if First Tier qualifications are not met. The account requires a $1 minimum opening deposit. The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) shown is effective as of 03/01/2021, unless otherwise noted. Rates are variable and may change without notice after the account is opened. Fees could reduce earnings on this account. Balances up to $1,500 will earn first tier APY when 'Qualifications for cash back'. Each statement period that Qualifications are met after the account opened, the first tier APY will be applied to the next statement period. Due to compounding, interest earned may push balances into next rate tier, causing an APY change. Please see rate page for range. If Qualifications not met, the first tier APY will discontinue and will revert to the credit union's base rate for Savings accounts until 'Qualifications for cash back' are reestablished. Balances of $1,500.01 or more will earn the credit union's current applicable base rate for Savings accounts. Limit one High Interest Savings account per member. Business, IRA, and Minor accounts not eligible for this product. Qualifications for cash back: The membership account number tied to the High Interest Savings account must complete the following: Enrolled in eStatements; Monthly direct deposit of at least $250 posted to one deposit-suffix; 15 posted point-of-sale debit card transactions per month to a single checking-suffix; OR Enrolled in eStatements; 25 posted point-of-sale debit card transactions per month to a single checking-suffix. Transactions exclude refunds, credits, fees, pre-authorizations and ATM transactions. Deposit products insured by NCUA include: Checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) Wealth Management by CommunityAmerica: Securities and advisory services offered through Copper Financial Network, LLC ("CuFi"), Member FINRA/SIPC. CuFi is a SEC registered investment adviser. CuFi is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Wealth Management by CommunityAmerica is a marketing name used by CuFi. For important disclosures from CuFi, including our Form CRS, please visit here. Investment and insurance product

"Pausing and intention are key to self-fulfillment." - Kim Newton Did you know 36% of women aren't following their dreams? Kim Newton was one of them several years ago, and it took some monumental people (and moments) to help her realize there was so much more to life. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Kim to unfold what was going on inside her heart when she began to sense a change was needed. Her story is both inspiring and action-oriented, meaning it wasn't the inspiration that took her forward but the people around her that made her take steps toward a life full of happiness, abundance, and fulfillment. The decision to "disrupt her life" and take time to pause was exactly what she needed to quiet her head talk, and tune into her heart. Kim will help you think about what your truest "joy" is inside your own heart. She will ask some emotionally-charged questions for you to reflect on, but also share how her passion was something that had actually been part of her for a majority of life already – but it took some rekindling to find it. This episode is sure to linger in your heart long after it's over. About Today's Guest: Kim Newton is passionate about leadership and innovation. She's an exceptional developer of people and has advised hundreds of leaders personally and professionally. She has a unique right-brain/left-brain approach to helping people and companies meet their fullest potential. Kim is a seasoned global marketing executive, board director, advisor, artist, and entrepreneur. During her two decades at Hallmark, she directly influenced global corporate strategy and led transformation across a $4B diversified portfolio of top brands. She has been recognized multiple times as a top African America in corporate America. Kim has always left a space for creation of her own heart, a modern approach to quilting. Kim's quilts have been called "unique and inspiring contemporary fiber art that tells a story and ignites the spirit." In 2019, after leaving corporate America, Kim sold her first piece that now hangs on the wall of Oprah Winfrey. Since that time, she has embraced and loves nurturing her artist self. As the founder of Alexis Enterprises, LLC, Kim brings to life all of her passions, including an art studio focused on her one-of-a-kind quilts. She also created and designed the Intentional Pause Project, which helps others embrace the journey she went on herself. The workbook helps people discover the powerful reason pausing can help them move forward to achieve their dreams. Mentioned in the Episode: Kim Alexis Newton's quilt website Kim's Intentional Pause workbook by Kim Kim's Intentional Pause Project

"We all have gifts. I think it is my responsibility to use mine to build into as many lives as possible in my life, beyond my reach, and beyond my life. I don't know how to build bridges, I don't have a whiz bang invention, but I do know how to influence others and change their thinking. Their changed thinking changes their lives. That is my job – by speaking, writing, or coaching." - Dr. Roger Hall Author of Staying Happy, Being Productive: The Big 10 Things Successful, Dr. Roger Hall helps people learn to monitor and manage their thinking. For over 25 years, he has consulted with leaders from all types of companies, judges in federal courts, university faculty, social workers, teachers, nurses, construction workers, landscapers, and box-makers. He helps his clients become better versions of themselves so they can improve their own lives and the lives of those they serve. About Dr. Roger Hall Roger does his best as a speaker to keep people like him engaged in what he's talking about. He has had the good fortune to work with entrepreneurs, tech companies, big Fortune 20 companies, and professionals like lawyers, financial planners, and other high relationship sales people. Roger wants to influence our culture, so he likes working with companies that distribute information, create technology, and create entertainment. Mentioned in the Episode: How he helps people monitor and manage their thinking. Unpacking his book, Staying Happy, Being Productive: The Big 10 Things Successful. Some of his favorite takeaways from his book which include getting more sleep. What are some of the tools and assignments he gives people to help manage their thoughts. The benefits of checking in with your thoughts every hour to help you monitor them and notice common themes. How you can break the cycle in negative thought loops and emotions. What steps you can do to replace false, negative thoughts with accurate, true counter thoughts. The importance of loving relationships for wellbeing. How the lack of human interaction and connection has impacted our mental health in 2020 and now in 2021. What advice he would give to leader

"You can't run from your passion or your purpose, it will try to find you." - Dr. Michelle Robin Dr. Michelle Robin gives listeners a special treat today – a solo episode that celebrates the beginning of her 10th season of the podcast. She will share the story behind how the podcast was born, but more importantly, what has propelled her to continue making episodes all these years later. She will also highlight the most memorable conversations and moments she's had with guests over the years. If you are seeking guidance on to remain true to yourself, and grounded this year, you don't want to miss this episode. She will reveal her one-word this year as well, and how it always helps her feel more anchored to her well-being. By the end of the episode, she will share the wisdom she learned in 2022, which are now the lessons she is taking forward into 2023. About Dr. Michelle Robin: Dr. Michelle Robin is the founder of Your Wellness Connection, Small Changes Big Shifts®, Big Shifts Foundation®, and the Kansas City Wellness Consortium®, but more importantly, she is a visionary for the well-being of many generations. After opening her chiropractic practice in Kansas City over 30 years ago, she's become a national influence and memorable leader in the wellness industry. Her simple framework – called the Quadrants of Well-Being – is the key to what many people have been looking for when it comes to discovering their best life. She has spent the majority of her career helping people make small changes that ultimately create the biggest shifts in their well-being. As a chiropractor, author, teacher, holistic healer, podcast host, unshakable optimist, international speaker, and passionate advocate for generational change, Michelle has left an impression on thousands of lives by helping them find their unique path to wellness and enrich their purpose in life. Mentioned in the Episode: Your Wellness Connection Small Changes Big Shifts Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship 30-Year Celebration Video & Lessons Wellness Consortium website Troy Nash episode How Kindness Raises Your Vibration with Sonia Choquette Your One Word This Year with Jimmy Page and Dan Britton Why Surrendering is the Passage to Freedom with Kute Blackson From Comfort to Chaos – and the Journey Home to Peace with Tareq Hadhad Super Gut with Dr. William Davis How Every Child Can Thrive by Five with Molly Wright (TedTalk) Caterpillar post by Dr. Michelle Robin Finding Purpose in Unexpected Places with Isaac Lee Collins 31 Days of Kindness

"We can find purpose in everything that we do." - Isaac Lee Collins From the outside, it may look like Isaac Lee Collins encountered a smooth journey toward success. At 23, fresh out of college, he opened his own chocolate-making store that quickly earned him a half-a-million dollars. However, what people don't always see is the "life story" that got him to where he is today – which is the owner of seven other businesses (plus one non-profit), ranging from handmade chocolates, construction, real-estate investing, health supplements, yoga teaching, frozen yogurt, and now business coaching. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Isaac to share his story – the ups, downs, and even some of the trauma he endured in life that he managed to turn into good for the sake of humanity. He will uncover some secrets that will help others discover their purpose, and also help listeners see the extraordinary things that can come out of ordinary places. About Today's Guest: In 2011, Isaac's college football season had just ended and he was about to graduate. He just landed the perfect job with one of the city's largest employers making great money and full benefits. However, he was miserable at the thought of working in corporate America. He knew that if he took this prestigious job, he would get comfortable and never pursue his dream of running his own business one day. Today, him and his wife, Rachel, still own five out of eight businesses. Due to the pandemic, his passion project became the Streamlined Profit Academy, which is his business training and coaching company. His mission is to help entrepreneurs get past the "I'm stuck" phase and to build their streamlined, profitable business so they can maximize their income, impact, time, and freedom. Mentioned in the Episode: Yogurtini locations Isaac Lee Collins' website Isaac Lee Collins' LinkedIn Tareq Hadhad's podcast Big Shifts Foundation Kansas City Wellness Consortium

"While I was packing, the only thing I was thinking about was how grateful I felt and how I could thank that cab driver who changed my life forever with a small act of kindness." - Tareq Hadhad Tareq Hadhad's life was changed forever during a cab ride home one day. His driver, who was singing and smiling as he drove, noticed that Tareq looked heavy-hearted. After explaining what was on his mind, the driver shared an idea with him that would positively impact Tareq's entire future – and his family's safety. It was the answer he had been searching for. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Tareq to share his awe-inspiring story about his family's refugee journey from Syria to their new home in Canada. He provides a glimpse into what was going through in his mind during this incredibly challenging time of war in their country, but also what he noticed about his father who was losing everything he had built for his family – including his chocolate factory. Enjoy this special holiday episode, which reminds us that there will be moments in life that are truly hard, sometimes devastating – and it may even feel like we are losing everything in the blink of an eye – but what matters is how true we stay to our values and how we can learn some of life's greatest lessons through crisis. About Today's Guests: Tareq Hadhad was a Syrian refugee and is now living his new life with his entrepreneurial family in Canada's east coast. He is the founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate, the recipient of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 for Atlantic, named one of the Top 25 Immigrants in the Maritimes, selected by Google as the National Hero Case, was awarded RBC's top Immigrant Award and Entrepreneur of the Year in 2020 – in addition to Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal. All of this happened since Tareq's arrival on Canada's East Coast in December 2015 as a Syrian-Canadian newcomer. In 2012, the Hadhad's home and factory that housed the family chocolate-making business were destroyed, which forced them to seek safety in other countries. Passionate about peace and entrepreneurship, his family relaunched the family business to recreate the chocolates they once exported across the Middle East and their story has turned into an international inspiring phenomenon. Mentioned in the Episode: Peace by Chocolate movie Tareq Hadhad's website Peace by Chocolate company website Tareq Hadhad's LinkedIn

The colder months can make it difficult to stay active, which is why today's episode is all about how to keep our bodies moving, even indoors. During today's show, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Danelle Husk from the YMCA to share how organizations like theirs are offering new ways for people to stay active during the wintertime. Danelle shares some of her favorite indoor activities, but also speaks to the YMCA 360 portal that allows their members to explore classes that promote a spirit, mind, and body connection to stay well this winter. She provides some examples of why this new platform has been so successful for their members, especially since it gives people an opportunity to try a new workout inside the comfort of their own home rather than a public gym. Later in the show, Dr. Robin welcomes Ant the Trainer, who shares his inspiring story of how he lost 65lbs in 8 months by becoming a mailman – and what motivated him to begin learning the science behind how our bodies work and what they need. He covers some important topics such as why people struggle with a healthy lifestyle, and also gives listeners a few tips that will inspire you to keep focusing on the impact small changes can have in your life. About Today's Guests: Danelle Huske is a Program Director II for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, supporting membership and healthy living at the Olathe and Prairie Village locations. She has a Master's degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Emporia State University. She first worked at the Y in 2001, and returned in 2004 and has worked at the Y since then. Her favorite part of working at the Y is helping people improve their overall health and making it a welcoming place for all. She's from Silver Lake, Kansas. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to sporting events, watching sports, and staying active. Ant the Trainer used to be a truck driver that delivered farm equipment from coast to coast. His eating habits were poor from always being on the road. He struggled with his breathing and was borderline hypertension. In 2018, he moved to Kansas City and became a mailman, which meant he went from sitting all day to now walking 10-15 miles nearly every day to deliver mail. He quickly lost 65lbs in 8 months, and this was just the beginning of his brand-new story. After he realized how good he felt, he enrolled in a Bachelor's program for Exercise Science to learn everything he could about how our bodies functioned and what they need to stay well. Today, he is a professional personal trainer who helps others to build confidence and change their life like he did. Mentioned in the Episode: YMCA 360 YMCA of Greater Kansas City YMCA – Find a location in the U.S. Big Shifts Foundation Ant the Trainer's website Ant the Trainer Instagram Small Changes Big Shifts Kansas City Wellness Consortium MajorMove.fit

"We now understand in the rapidly growing field of traumatology, those kinds of traumas can be more damaging to our nervous system regulation and the state of our brain than adverse childhood experiences." - Dr. Lissa Rankin Dr. Lissa Rankin didn't expect to go down a particular path when she left her promising career as an OBGYN in 2007. The plan was to focus on her own health and well-being during a two-year sabbatical, but she soon came face-to-face with people who were doing all the right things – eating well, yoga, and other popular wellness practices – yet they were some of the sickest people she had ever met. When she started asking them deep-rooted questions about their lives, her passion and purpose suddenly revealed itself. She realized what was holding people back from feeling better – developmental trauma. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites Dr. Rankin to unpack the story behind what made her go around the globe to collect tools from the world's medicine bag (from experts, traditions, faith healers, spiritual healers, energy healers). She was on a quest to find out how these things could transform lives – especially for those who weren't aware they experienced developmental trauma growing up. She'll also share about her latest book release called Sacred Medicine, and why developmental trauma is such a danger to our nervous system and our brain health. About Today's Guests: Lissa Rankin, MD, is a mind-body medicine physician, author of seven books, founder of the Whole Health Medicine Institute, and mystic who researches radical remission, trauma-informed medicine, and spiritual healing. Her TEDx talks have been viewed over 5 million times, and she starred in two National Public Television specials – Heal Yourself: Mind Over Medicine and The Fear Cure. Lissa's interest in the link between loneliness and disease led her to spearhead her latest project. Heal At Last, a non-profit organization which aims to bring effective trauma healing and spiritual healing methods to anyone ready for the deep dive of healing. Mentioned in the Episode: Mind Over Medicine: Scientific Proof That You Can Heal Yourself book by Lissa Rankin Sacred Medicine: A Doctor's Quest to Unravel the Mysteries of Healing by Lissa Rankin The Shocking Truth About Your Health TedTalk by Lissa Rankin Kitchen Table Wisdom book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World book Lissa Rankin on Facebook Lissa Rankin on Twitter Lissa Rankin on Instagram Lissa Rankin's blog HealAtLast.org Healing with The Muse

"We can't judge people today who could be different tomorrow." - Michael Glauser The greatest of happiness occurs in relationships, yet as a society, we have lost our way in building and sustaining meaningful relationships. We don't talk to our neighbors as much as we did a decade ago – and the detrimental effects of this lost art is greatly affecting the next generation to lead our world. Over 40% of high school students are persistently sad and feeling hopeless, while 40% of college students say they are too depressed to do their school work. Additionally, 60% of college students say the loneliness epidemic is a very real problem in their own lives. After years of pulling research together about the principles for happiness and civility, Mike Glauser decided it was time to put it all into book form and call it One People One World. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin asks Mike what those six universal truths are that he presents in his book. While these truths have been on this earth for 5,000 years – and are backed by significant academic research – people are still struggling to reconnect to them despite how simple they seem. Mike dives into why action is required – not just reading or thinking about them. Tune in as he shares insight of what he's learned over the years after doing bicycle tours through small-town America. About Today's Guests: Michael Glauser is an entrepreneur, business consultant, university professor, and author of Main Street Entrepreneurand One People One Planet. He's also the Executive Director of the Clark Center for Entrepreneurship at Utah State University. He has built successful companies in the retail, wholesale, and consulting industries. He has worked with hundreds of startup ventures and large corporations. He is the co-founder and CEO of My New Enterprise, an online training, and development company. He's the Director of the SEED self-sufficiency program, helping people around the world to improve their standard of living and benefit their communities through entrepreneurship. Mike's great passion is helping people create successful companies, gain financial freedom, and live the life of their dreams. Mentioned in the Episode: Main Street Entrepreneur by Mike Glauser One People One Planet by Mike Glauser One People One Planet website Mike Glauser's website Big Shifts Foundation

"Stress tends to occur when there's an imbalance from a demand being placed on you, and it seems like you might be incapable of meeting that demand." - Megan Walker Many people experience higher stress levels during the holidays, mainly due to having a lot more on our plate. However, creating a stress response toolkit can better help your body and mind manage that stress. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Megan Walker, who is the Healthy Living Director at the YMCA in the Greater Kansas City area to talk about what that toolkit can include for you. She dives into the importance of understanding what stress is in the body and why it happens, then provides some steps you can start making today before the holiday parties and family events begin. Some key tips that are mentioned include reframing our mindset, physical activity to release stress, blood sugar, hydrating with water, the role fiber has in your body, and where we need to allow more self-compassion on ourselves during the holidays. About Today's Guests: Megan Walker is the Healthy Living Director for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, at the Platte County Community Center North location. She has a passion for helping others lead a healthier lifestyle and approaches overall wellness from a holistic perspective. She joined the YMCA in 2021 as a Healthy Living Coach, Group Exercise Instructor, and Personal Trainer, and now gets the pleasure of serving the community in her role as director. Although she is relatively new to the YMCA, she has been in the exercise and sport science field for eight years having worked within higher education as a collegiate softball coach, Mental performance Consultant providing services to individual student-athletes and teams, and as a faculty member teaching Sport and Exercise Psychology. Mentioned in the Episode: YMCA.org - Locate all locations nationwide YMCA of Greater Kansas City Big Shifts Foundation

"The value and power of gratitude is that it allows you to shift your perspective. It helps you dig deep and look for good." - Kim Becking The holidays bring an immense amount of pressure, tension, and stress on us – but are we missing out on life by not finding the good? Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Kim Becking to the show today to talk about how you can utilize a gratitude practice right now to build a momentum mindset. Kim shares how she redefines what resilience means in today's world, and some of the practices she started doing when she began a life that was intentionally focused on gratitude. Get ready to receive multiple bits of wisdom and one-liners that you can lean on this holiday season. Some of her advice includes letting go of unrealistic expectations during this time of the year, and she'll offer some wisdom and other tips to help you have a calmer and more peaceful experience around others. Enjoy this wonderful conversation as they dive deep into why gratitude requires growth and everyday practice. About Today's Guests: Kim Becking is an engaging, high-energy, fun, and impactful motivational keynote speaker, change and leadership expert, coach and consultant, and award-winning author. Her Momentum Mindset model helps leaders, teams, and organizations conquer change, boost resilience, accelerate success no matter what. Kim knows a thing or two about change and challenges through her own experiences in business and life. As an attorney, serial entrepreneur running two successful businesses for over two decades, communications strategist and "recovering" political consultant, Kim has conquered the ever-changing tough worlds of business, government, and politics. She's also conquered breast cancer. She doesn't want you to just bounce back after change and adversity – she wants you to develop that Momentum Mindset where you push past limited thinking, get unstuck, and use the change and adversity in life as the fuel needed to propel you forward – faster, further, stronger, and better than ever before. Mentioned in the Episode: 31 Days of Kindness series – sign up for the free emails here 52 Inspiring Quote Decks 3 Good Things app Kim Becking on LinkedIn Kim Becking on Facebook Kim Becking's website Kim's books

"My favorite definition of compassion is to engage in the suffering of others – and that's what this small town did. They had true compassion for five days on us." - Kevin Tuerff Kevin Tuerff was flying from Paris to New York City on September 11, 2001, when the plane suddenly began to appear like it was descending toward the ocean water. A few moments later, the captain came on to say there had been a terrorist attack in the United States, and the plane would be making an emergency landing in a small town in Canada called Gander. Soon after landing, they discovered other planes had been grounded in Gander as well, causing the small town's population of 9,000 to experience a sudden increase of 7,000 people on their streets. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Kevin to share this moving and inspiring story about what happened over the course of these five days being stranded there. He explains how people in this town began opening their homes, churches, and kitchens to the passengers like him, asking if they needed a shower, needed a warm meal, or simply needed a ride across town. He recounts how everybody in Gander was helping out, and there was something magical about it. This opened up a brand-new meaning for Kevin about what random acts of kindness could look like – leading him to launch a nonprofit organization around this experience called Pay It Forward 9.11 after he returned back home in Houston, Texas. Since its launch in 2002, the nonprofit has become an international phenomenon around kindness and continues to teach people about the power it has in our lives. About Today's Guests: Kevin Tuerff's experience as a 9/11 stranded airline passenger in Canada inspired him to develop Pay It Forward 9.11 in 2002, and it's been growing every year. Today, he serves as Founder and Volunteer President of Pay It Forward 9.11, Inc. His 9/11 story is one of the true stories inspiring the Tony-Award-winning Broadway musical "Come from Away". The character "Kevin T" is referred to as the compassionate "gay lumberjack" in the show, and this Pay It Forward 9.11 effort is mentioned in the script of the musical. He is featured cast member in three related documentaries (HBO Canada, CBC, and Fox). In 2018, House of Anansi Press published his memoir called Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books is donated to nonprofit organizations help refugees. Kevin currently works for Environmental Defense Fund and is TEDx speaker and certified as a virtual presenter by eSpeakers. Mentioned in the Episode: Pay It Forward 9.11 Come From Away Musical TedTalk: Compassion is the New Life Hack by Kevin Tuerff 31 Days of Kindness – sign up to receive the free email series Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander book by Kevin Tuerff Be Good to People Foundation Be Good to People online store – DMRAMB to get 15% off your order

"Anything that goes from the heart up creates a vibration that actually has a very positive effect on humans. It will jumpstart other human hearts." - Sonia Choquette Sonia remembers her mother being a central figure when it came to including kindness as a core value in life. Through all the adversity she faced, Sonia's mother focused on raising her children to believe that kindness creates the family you need, no matter what the circumstances. In today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites one of her longtime friends to talk about how kindness can raise your vibration – which is the energy that connects you to everything and everyone in the universe. Sonia, who is a world-renowned intuitive, also will share what happens when we intentionally commit to kindness and dives into exactly how powerful your vibration as a human being is to an entire room of people. She ends the episode with some helpful tips about you can begin to show yourself more self-love to raise your vibration. About Today's Guest: Global author and speaker, Sonia Choquette, is the most highly regarded expert in the field of intuition. Over the course of 40 years, she has become a world-renowned intuitive guide and spiritual teacher. Author of 27 New York Times and International best sellers, her books have been published in 37 languages and 40 countries and has been read by over one million people. Sonia experienced some very difficult times at one point in her life. Within six weeks, her brother died, her father died, her marriage imploded, and her life as she knew it fell apart. Even after being a leader who taught hundreds of thousands of people around the world, she found herself shattered by so much loss happening so fast. She was guided to undertake a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago across Spain to help heal herself and find a way forward. Along the journey, she encountered all her "old stuff" - the pieces of her life that helped her discover the most profound level of wholeness she's ever experienced. Today, she continues to help people all over the world by teaching them to use their senses. Mentioned in the Episode: 31 Days of Kindness – Sign up for the free email series Sonia's Website Trust Your Vibes by Sonia Choquette – new book just released in June 2022 Be Good to People Foundation Be Good to People Online Store

"When you look at the Y's core values since the beginning, it's all about honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring." - John Mikos The YMCA was established 178 years ago – and 162 years ago the Kansas City location was founded. Since then, the nonprofit organization has expanded to 135 countries around the world, and annually serves 155,000 people in just the Kansas City community. During today's episode, Dr. Michelle Robin invites John Mikos, who is the CEO of the YMCA in Greater Kansas City, to share why kindness is such an integral part of who they are and everything that they do. John began his career at the Y as a lifeguard when he was a teenager, quickly deciding this was the place he wanted to work for the rest of his life – a big reason being the kindness the organization shows every day to its community. He also shares some examples about how they incorporate many of their core values into their youth programs to help kids grow with an understanding and awareness about how these things impact their spiritual, mental, and physical health. About Today's Guest: John Mikos became the CEO of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City in 2019 after serving as the Chief Operating Officer since 2013. He's led many progressive developments with the Y in Kansas City, bringing focus to innovative integrated health programs, fostering the Y's vision, and building great relationships with health and community partners across the region. Since joining the organization, Mikos has been part of the downtown YMCA/Kirk Family Community Center breaking ground at the former Lyric Theatre building, as well as the expansion and renovation of facilities, including the Atchison Family YMCA/Cray Community Center and the Linwood Family YMCA/James B. Nutter, and Senior Community Center. Mikos has also worked with North Kansas City government to renovate its area location. Prior to joining YMCA of Greater Kansas City, John held the Chief Operating Officer positions at both the YMCA of Western North Carolina in Asheville and the YMCA of Greater Tulsa. Mentioned in the Episode: 31 Days of Kindness – Sign up for the free email series YMCA of Greater Kansas City YMCA- to find a location near you Before & After School Y Club Youth Sports Nutritional, Personal Training & Weight Loss Challenger Buddy Program Youth Swim Programs Be Good to People Online Store Be Good to People Foundation