Small Changes Big Shifts

"The mechanics in the body are essentially about function." - Brian Stewart Brian Stewart wasn't expecting to find his life passion through some injuries he endured during high school, but that's exactly how he discovered that he wanted to help people by becoming a physical therapist. His physical therapists (PTs) during his high school years made a significant impact on his life by not only helping him heal, but also teaching him the mechanics of the body by breaking it down into simple concepts so that he could step into his best life. That influence shaped his life, and today he's on a mission to improve people's lives by helping them understand simple things like how a joint moves and how the body works as a whole together so each person who walks through Kansas City Ortho Alliance can be given the opportunity to step into their best life like he was given. In this episode, Brian shares three pain problems he frequently sees people struggling with today – back pain, neck pain, and hip pain. He also provides helpful tips in each of these areas that can guide people either in prevention or pain management – in addition to some bonus tips that all matter to the body. About Today's Guests: Brian Stewart is the Chief Development Officer at Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance, which is the largest, independently owned orthopedic specialty practice in the Kansas City metro area. With over 50 medical providers in four locations, they have the ability to treat people where they live, work, and play. Their board-certified providers are equipped to handle almost any musculoskeletal injury – from shoulders to knees, ankles, hands, and neck to back. Brian was born and raised in Kansas City (Harrisonville, MO), and attended his undergrad years at the University of Kansas. He went on to study Physical Therapy at the University of Kansas, and later earned his doctorate in the same field. During his professional career, he's been part of Big Brothers/Big Sisters, United Way, United We, Cornerstones of Care, and KC Care Clinic. The Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance is proud to support its local organizations such KCUR, Te Deum, Harvesters, Children's Mercy, Phoenix Family, and several others. Mentioned in the Episode: Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance website Quadrants of Well-Being

"Being a go-giver, whether it's in business or in a personal relationship, is never about a scorecard. It's about adding value to the other person's life. It's about acts of generosity that don't have an expectation of return." - Ana Gabriel Mann When John David Mann and friend Bob Burg finished their manuscript for The Go-Giver, John asked his wife Ana to be the first to read it. One of the first things she said was, "Wow, this would make a great book about marriage." For years, people asked John and Ana what the secret sauce was for their marriage. How did they keep the "newlywed" fire alive after all these years? What helped them adopt a spirit of generosity with each other? In this episode, John and Ana share that life is really about relationships, and that relationships demand a spirit of generosity. Being a go-giver in a relationship means dropping the scorecard and "transactional" expectations (e.g. Do this for me, and I'll do that for you). They both explain the importance of asking, "Are we feeding the us?" This means letting go of thoughts around winning, looking for fairness, and keeping track of scorecards in the relationship. Tune in to hear more of their wisdom and how they uncovered what ultimately went into this book. About Today's Guests: John David Mann is the author and co-author of more than 30 books, including four New York Times bestsellers and five national bestsellers. His classic 2008 parable called The Go-Giver (co-authored with his friend, Bob Burg) earn the 2017 Living Now Book Award's "Evergreen Medal" for its contribution to positive global change. Ana Gabriel Mann earned her M.A. in clinical psychology before going on to serve as an educator, therapist, corporate trainer, speaker, and coach. She currently coaches Go-Giver Marriage clients and leads the Go-Giver Marriage Coaches Training Program, where she trains coaches around the world. Mentioned in the Episode: The Go-Giver Marriage Website The Go-Giver Marriage Workshop The Go-Giver Coaches Program The Go-Giver by John David Mann & Bob Burg The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Cold Fear by John David Mann and Brandon Webb

Today, we are welcoming Jeanette Metzler and Lisa Cummings to the show, where they open their hearts about what made them decide that their life mission was to help our communities feel well. Jeanette is the Community Benefit Manager at AdventHealth in Kansas City, and Lisa is the Wellness Manager at AdventHealth in Kansas City – both roles that immerse themselves in community outreach programs all over the metro. We invite you to listen in as they reveal what inspired them to start helping people find that higher quality of life, which goes beyond just regular doctor's visits and instead propels each person forward into their best lives. They share heartwarming stories of moments they've encountered within the Kansas City communities that have impacted their own roles and purpose on earth – everything from the simple act of listening to the community to watching kids bloom when the resources and support are provided for them. Three Takeaways: People typically feel frustrated after their wellness check-ups. They find out the problem but are not always sure what to do next. AdventHealth is doing something to end that cycle for its patients. We may not always get to see the seeds we plant in someone's life come to fruition, but we can trust that good will come from it - even from the smallest of seeds. AdventHealth chooses to focus on two Kansas City neighborhoods at a time, and the impact they have seen happen by simply making resources more available in these neighborhoods is both moving and inspiring for other healthcare companies to follow. Mentioned In the Episode: Living to Listen episode with Debra O'Bryan at CommunityAmerica AdventHealth website AdventHealth Community Outreach Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Tommy Sobel is the world's premier digital habits coach, having helped thousands of busy business leaders and top-performers reclaim tens of thousands of hours of productive time. Using his background in neuroscience and behavior reconditioning, Tommy trains business leaders to improve their relationship with screens through coaching, proven systems and community, so they can reclaim 20-40 productive hours each week, live life in flow state and have more time off. Later in the show, Dr. Robin welcomes Debra O'Bryan who is the Dream Manager and Well-Being Manager at CommunityAmerica Credit Union. She shares the moment when "active listening" was introduced in her life, and why the book by Michael Sorenson called I Hear You changed her relationships – both in the workplace and in her personal life. Debra also explains why listening can be difficult for us, and why it's important not to fall into the "giving advice" or "fix it" trap when someone else is speaking. Instead, she encourages us to pause and validate what they must be feeling in this moment. Debra also sprinkles in some great active listening tips that can shift a company culture and build even better connections between its team members. Memorable Quotes: "So, I just started to challenge some people in my community, some friends, and people in the film industry. Like, can you turn your phone into a brick for an hour a day and do something that you love in the real world?" "The problem today is that we are being overloaded with these dopogenic rewards, these things that give us that dopamine, that don't actually help us survive. Every single follow, every single email, every single vibration in our pocket gives us that sense of dopamine, and we've become overstimulated to it." "I think that we're now at this kind of new pillar of wellness where you need to carve out time and effort to get off the grid for your own mental health and wellbeing." "In my professional life I was doing a really good job of active listening, it was in my personal life with my family that I was getting it completely wrong. Validation in active listening was a game changer for me and my family." "We fall into advice, and not really listening, especially as a mom, we just want to fix it. But really, what people want in that moment – when we're venting – is we want someone to appreciate our struggle and empathize with us." "Active listening gets us to pause. It gets us to appreciate our relationships, and to learn. There are so many things we miss if we don't take the time to listen." What You'll Learn: How to create better habits around screen time and phone usage to live more fully, plus how active listening can help you develop stronger relationships both at work and at home. This Episode Includes: While working in social media for Steven Spielberg at Dreamworks Studios, Tommy realized he was spending the equivalent of 5 months a year on his phone. Tommy was able to tie his anxiety, stress, and unhappiness to the amount of time spent on his phone. He decided to test his theory and spent one hour a day for a year doing something other than checking his phone. He was able to read 27 books that year. Tommy challenged his co-workers and friends to do the same. Out of that challenge sprang the digital wellness movement and the brick community. Tommy explains the neuroscience behind phone addiction and how we can change that addiction through habit formation. He believes the new frontier of wellness is going to be digital wellness. When creating new habits environmental design is one of the first tips that Tommy shares with people. If you are able to design your environment in such a way that you remove your phone from the situation it is easier to avoid checking it. For example, purchase a digital alarm clock rather than use your phone to keep it out of the bedroom. When you practice environmental design, you end up finding yourself being more present, more focused, and more attentive, and you're not even using willpower. When teaching your kids about digital wellness it's important not to vilify the phone. Instead, teach your kids the freedom they get to experience when they remove the phone from the equation. People are overwhelmed, stressed, fearful of the future, and so on, but there are ways that being an active listener can help them process their emotions without you having to give advice. Why active listening begins with empathy, and asking yourself, "How would I be feeling if I were in their shoes?" Why micro-validating team members throughout the day can make a difference on morale. Micro-validating allows people to move from emotion to logic. Logic cannot be reached without validation. Why it's important to ask a person if they need someone that will just listen or if they are looking for advice. Most people will know the answer. The importance of self-validation, and why we need to remember the phrase, "Be careful what you say, you're listening." Three Takeaways from

"I want my kids to grow up knowing who I am in real life, not just in their head. I cry in front of them, I'm peculiar, I'm a little weird. I want to show them all facets of myself so they can embrace it for themselves." - Brandon McAnderson Brandon McAnderson is a former All-Big 12 Running Back at the University of Kansas, and today is a sideline reporter and pre-game host for KU football games. He is also an active member in the Kansas City community who brings men together to grow spiritually and address commonly held (and harmful) male stigmas present in today's world. In today's show, Brandon shares why Father's Day is a good time for men to check in on their mental health. That means pausing and reflecting on all you have done as a father this year, and more importantly celebrating the big and small moments that you bring to your kids' lives – spiritually, mentally, and even a vulnerable side to let them see the real you, and not an idea of who you are. Brandon shares stories about his father, and the gratitude that has grown in his heart over the years for his dad, so much that his fatherhood has impacted the way he sees and loves his own two boys today. Brandon also opens up about his own bout of depression, and his inspirational journey toward healing and how it led to helping more men in our community. Later, Dr. Robin chats with Sabrah Parsons, who is an Aquatics Director at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. When she finished swimming lessons at age 15, little did she know that when her mother signed her up to be a lifeguard, that would be where she found her passion for swim safety. Sabrah shares that drowning is the number two leading accidental death for ages 0-8 – and it's completely preventable with drowning prevention classes. Sabrah describes what parents can look for in flotation devices for kids, and how to know if a swim class will teach their kids the proper techniques to self-rescue if there comes a time. Three Takeaways: How depression can show up in subtle ways and hide behind failure in our lives. Relying on other people to make us happy isn't realistic – we need to search for the right mental health tools that work for us and have them ready in our pocket before a crisis happens. Why swim lessons can prevent drownings up to 80% - plus three important moves the YMCA aquatic program teaches kids to promote self-rescue. Mentioned In the Episode: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz Big Shifts Foundation YMCA of Greater Kansas City Drowning prevention classes at the YMCA Puddle Jumper flotation devices for kids Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Deb Richard is a professional golfer, executive coach, and author of "Trust: Understanding My Why." She is the CEO of Burlap Leaders where she specializes in helping others manifest quality relationships and live with purpose. Deb's North Star, Trust, is central to her coaching of athletes, executives, and students. She expands on the many lessons learned through golf and applies them to inspire successful living. Memorable Quotes: "We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time." "I think a lot of times we get lost in a purpose that is self-fulfilling. I like to think of purpose as how we give that is ultimately the greatest pathway in life. It's not what we took from the world. It's what we gave to the world." "There are things you learn about trust as you're developing it in yourself, that really translates and it becomes that vision of what you're looking for in someone else to trust." What You'll Learn: Trust is important in learning the why behind your actions and living with purpose. This Episode Includes: Through golf, Deb learned to trust herself and have self-confidence. When you develop your own trust in yourself you find it's the same things you're looking for when trusting in others. One example that Deb gives about trusting herself involves her sense of integrity and how that served her in different situations in life. It is hard to trust others when you don't fully trust yourself. If you weren't raised in an environment that promoted self-trust you can develop it in yourself by doing the mundane. The mundane includes non-negotiables that you perform every day. As you prove to yourself that you can do them, you will start to build trust in yourself. Understanding your why precedes trust, not trust preceding your why. Deb shares the story of how she trusted her gut in college and led the University of Florida golf team to a National Championship. Deb believes that because she trusts herself, she is able to be more curious about the world around her in a safe and growth-oriented manner. The greatest motivation and purpose is when we take the best of ourselves and we bring it to the world. If you have the power to positively influence just one other person in the world, that's a great purpose. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Practice doing the mundane to build trust in yourself. Evaluate your purpose in life – is it self-fulfilling or is it about giving back to the world? Consider how you can meld your purpose in your professional life and your purpose in your personal life. Mentioned In The Episode: Trust: Understanding my Why by Deb Richard Small Changes Big Shifts

Chelsea Laub is an Enneagram Coach with a passion for empowering people to see the possibility in their lives. Using the Enneagram, she works with individuals, couples, and teams to discover what's working and what's not by bringing awareness of self and others. An expert in self-awareness, leadership, education, marketing, and connection, Chelsea will keep you engaged and excited about what is possible, while giving you practical and useful tips that you can start using today. Chelsea serves as the Treasurer for the Big Shifts Foundation, where she is dedicated to making generational lifestyle changes by providing young people with safe places and resources to enable their whole health. Chelsea is a community contributor, a mom, a wife, a friend, and she believes wholeheartedly in whole-person health Memorable Quotes: "The first thing I think is when we draw awareness to ourselves and to our patterns, it makes us more aware of how we're parenting our kids as well." "Learning about all the different personality types I've grown this compassion and this understanding that I just didn't have access to before, this level of empathy." "When we're born, we're born with this core motivation, which is our Enneagram type, our personality style. And as we're growing, we try out different strategies to satisfy that core motivation, and those become our behaviors." What You'll Learn: The Enneagram can help you cultivate compassion by helping you understand the behavioral motivations of yourself and those around you. This Episode Includes: The enneagram is a personality assessment that tells you why you do what you do. It helps you draw awareness to yourself and to your patterns. It makes you more aware of how you're parenting your kids as well. Chelsea gives a few examples of how the enneagram has helped her and her husband better understand their children. In the enneagram there are three different levels of energy that you can fall under. Chelsea started out as a financial advisor until her husband went through some mental health challenges and she discovered the enneagram. The enneagram has been a game-changer for Chelsea and taught her how to have more compassion for the people around her. One example Chelsea shares is how the enneagram helped one of her clients learn how to set more boundaries for herself. There are nine different personality types with the enneagram. Your core motivation is different based on which of those types you are, and your path to growth is different depending on what your type is. The enneagram also provides you guidance on how to access your growth zone. Takeaways From Today's Episode: Consider taking the enneagram and working with an enneagram coach to learn more about yourself and how you interact with others. Mentioned In The Episode: Mindset by Carol Dweck What Happened to You by Oprah The Complete Enneagram by Beatrice Chestnut The Road back to You by Ian Morgan Cron Chelsea Laub The Big Shifts Foundation

Dr. Barahona is a family coach, author, and the host of the Simple Families Podcast. Her work has been featured on Netflix, Real Simple Magazine, The Today Show, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and many more. For the past 15 years, she's had the experience of partnering with parents in search of a more harmonious life with kids. Her doctorate is in Child Development with a research focus on family wellness. She also holds a bachelor's and master's degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus on child and family practice. Dr. Barahona is also a parent in the trenches with two young children herself. During the second part of the show, Dr. Robin talks to Caitlin White, who is the Behavioral Specialists for Youth at the YMCA in Kansas City. She shares why they are helping kids regulate their bigger emotions in groups with peers. She also shares the ways kids are struggling to readapt being in big groups again, and some tips that can help kids feel more grounded in their daily routine. Memorable Quotes: "As the parent in the home, I am the thermostat. I'm setting the temperature for the people around me." "This idea of minimalism can feel very finite. It can feel very predetermined. Like, you get to this point and you're a minimalist. Most people would walk into my home and be shocked to find out that we're minimalist because it looks just like everybody else's home." "When our amygdala is overreacting and our thinking brain isn't functioning, well, then we're not saying the things we want to be saying. We're not staying as calm as we want to be staying. So, I think that as parents, when we ourselves are taking care of ourselves and we can maintain our own calm, we can be more intentional in the interactions that we have with our kids." "So, I think that it's really the heartbeat of our existence, being connected to other humans. And in many ways, when it comes to kids, it is the biggest influence on their behavior." "We see some kids struggling with big emotional reactions, even to smaller things that weren't previously a big deal such as parents dropping off, siblings being split out of groups, or things not going their way." "A kid's routine should always include some downtime, even if that's sitting with them at the end of the day and reflecting on things." What You'll Learn: Tips and tricks for parents to find mental clarity. Why the YMCA is the biggest childcare centers in Kansas City What S.M.A.R.T. Connections is at the YMCA and how it helps parents and kids together This Episode Includes: Denaye earned a doctorate in child development but in her twenties realized how little she knew about the growing up process. Her goal is to teach parents more about this process so they can build empathy and patience with their children. Denaye started the Simple Families podcast five years ago to help pursue that goal. The mental load that Denaye talks about is made up of expectations from her childhood and things she saw modeled in society and other families. Most people think the mental load is all about the tasks they need to accomplish, but it also includes their fears and worries. The first step to reduce the mental load is to do a brain dump for an hour of everything you're thinking about. The next step is to categorize those ideas into execution, planning, and worry piles. A lot of people are amazed when most of the ideas end up in the worry pile. There are certain people out there that have a higher tolerance for clutter, and these are people who have baseline lower levels of anxiety and aren't quite as bothered by their environment and their surroundings. On the other hand, some people are more bothered by clutter and can't tolerate it as much. Denaye uses a red, yellow, green, and blue chart where you name your zone based on a color. The color you choose relates to how able you are to tolerate clutter. When you are a parent, you set the tone for your family. That's why it's so important to know your zone and be able to manage it. A clear mindset helps parents because they can use their thinking brain to react and remain calm with their children. Denaye shares the example of how her family uses a visual calendar to set the schedule for the day with her kids. She says now her children draw their own visual calendars when they have days off from school. In terms of connection, Denaye believes that the less connected you are to someone the more negative feelings that will arise. Whereas, if you are more connected the opposite is true. Regulating your emotions is a new way to help those struggling with mental health, which has been found to help you stay true to yourself. Why routines and rituals help create connection because this avoids anxiety and stress in our lives. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Practice a brain dump for yourself. Spend one hour writing down every thought that's in your head. Categorize those ideas into the three different piles: execution, planning, and worry. Conside

Stephen is a first-generation college graduate with a B.S. from Texas A&M University and a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is currently working on a Doctorate of Ministry, also at Fuller. Stephen helps coaches and athletes connect the dots between sports and life through the 2Words Character Development program. Mackey's first book, co-authored with best-selling author Damon West, is called The Locker Room: How Great Teams Heal Hurts, Overcome Adversity, and Build Unity. It's coming out this month, May 2022. Among his many accomplishments, Mackey is most proud of his role as a devoted husband to his wife, Teressa, and father to their four kids. During the last part of the show, Dr. Robin chats with Jackie Reed about the homebuying process in these times. Jackie is a manager at CommunityAmerica Credit Union in their Branch and Outbound Mortgage Sales department. She provides helpful tips about how to find the right lendor and loan officer for your family, as well as how to find a real estate agent that will be dependable with your needs. She also speaks to how the home loan process works at CommunityAmerica Credit Union, and why they take a personal approach with their customers to make sure you are comfortable during the entire journey toward buying your next home. Memorable Quotes: "Because whenever we start to live outside of our core values, adversity, conflict, and hurt will follow." "But instead, we turn the volume up and we say, let's bring the fullness of who you were created to be and the fullness of who I was created to be. And let's bring all of that and deploy it in service of one common goal." "The purpose of influence is to serve those that have none." What You'll Learn: How to encourage our kids to overcome adversity through staying true to their core beliefs. Also, the steps that are involved in the homebuying process, and how you can make the process easier on yourself by being prepared with some helpful tips. This Episode Includes: Stephen was raised by his grandparents and was able to become a first-generation college graduate. He worked as a youth pastor before he started his character development program. If we start with no, we'll find all the reasons why we can't do something. If we start with yes we'll find all the reasons that we can. Stephen shares the six foundational ideas that are represented in his book "The Locker Room" and a brief synopsis of what the story is about. In order to write "The Locker Room," Stephen reached out to Damon West on Twitter. Together, they collaborated to write and publish the book. One key principle in the book is the idea that following your core values will help you achieve success on the field and in real life. Stephen believes that unity begins when you listen more than you talk. Listening to young people instead of trying to solve their problems is one way to help them overcome mental health challenges. What to look for in a real estate agent, and why your lendor and loan officer can be a great supportive system for you during the homebuying process. What you can do budget wise to prepare for the homebuying process Some tips to avoid getting derailed from the homebuying process. Why getting pre-approved matters and saves you time and stress. Takeaways From Today's Episode: Go and purchase "The Locker Room: How Great Teams Heal Hurts, Overcome Adversity, and Build Unity" to give to a recent graduate as a gift. Talk to family and friends when looking for a real estate agent, as they tend to be the best referrals. Find a lendor who will work with you to understand all the costs associated with buying a home. Mentioned In The Episode: Damon West The Locker Room: How Great Teams Heal Hurts, Overcome Adversity, and Build Unity Home - YoungLife.org Stephen Mackey CommunityAmerica Credit Union – Call or visit a location to speak with one of their mortgage advisors *** This recording is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be viewed as personalized financial advice and is not a substitute for consultation with your financial representative. Any reference to third-party websites are provided for information purposes only and are not endorsed by CommunityAmerica. Please visit CommunityAmerica.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your Financial Peace of Mind.***

Jessica graduated from California State University Long Beach. She has worked as a neuroscience bedside nurse with children and young adults in a psychiatric residential treatment center. She is a clinical instructor to nursing students during their psychiatric rotations. Jessica is also the director of clinical services with foresight mental health clinic. She believes in finding a balance between lifestyle interventions and medication. Foresight Mental Health Clinic just opened offices in Kansas City, MO. The goal of Foresight is to leverage technology with mental health services to help make people healthier and happier. During the second part of the show, Dr. Robin chats with Amy Milroy, Director of the B.E. Smith Family Center at AdventHealth in Shawee, Kansas, as well as Paloma Juarez, who has two children that attend the Britain Development Program at B.E. Smith Family Center. As they continue the conversation on mental health and kids, Amy shines a light on why their programs are praised by the Kansas City community. The B.E. Family Center encompasses two unique programs – the first being the Early Learning Program which benefits AdventHealth employees' children. The second is the Britain Development Learning Program, which benefits children all over the Kansas City area with special needs such as autism and other developmental delays. Both programs help children ages 0-5 prepare for kindgarten and that next stage along their journey with successful learning opportunities that incorporate occupational therapy, speech therapists, music therapy, feeding therapty, aquatic therapy, and so on. Paloma Juarez also shares why this center has become part of their family, and why this has been the best place for even her own well-being as she navigates parenthood. Memorable Quotes: "So, our mental health landscape in the US is very much cash pay, and only 56% of psychiatrists take insurance all across the US. To me, that's so absurd. If you were to break your leg, you would not be hard-pressed to find somebody who takes your insurance to fix it." "I think that's really great advice to meet people where they're at. And so, anybody listening today, it's kind of like if you get in a car accident and your bone is hanging out of your skin, please go to the ER, don't come to the chiropractor." "This a tough road because you're responsible for these tiny humans. My biggest advice is giving yourself some grace. The fact that you're worried that you're struggling means that you care a ton and you're probably making a lot of awesome tough choices for your little one, and know that you aren't the only one." What You'll Learn: Difficulties in access to mental health care and innovative ways that Foresight Mental Health Clinic is changing those difficulties. This Episode Includes: Jessica became a nurse because of the diversity of care they can offer. While working as a nurse, Jessica saw there was a stigma for those patients who came in with a mental health diagnosis. She decided to go into psychiatry to help put an end to that stigma. Jessica talks about the beginning of Foresight Mental Health Clinic and what makes it different from other mental health clinics. One of the goals at Foresight is to provide greater access to patients through the acceptance of as many insurance companies as possible. They also create custom cash pay plans for patients. Foresight also provides more data collection and analysis compared to other mental health clinics. According to statistics, Missouri is in the top five states with poor access to mental health care. Foresight decided to address this statistic by opening a new clinic in Kansas City, Missouri. Jessica shares a few lifestyle interventions that someone who is feeling down can implement to boost their mood. However, she also notes there are different levels of mental health. Someone at a level one may benefit from lifestyle interventions while someone at level five may not be able to implement any changes on their own just yet. There are several different ways to access care with Foresight. Going to their website will give you the most up-to-date information. Find out more about how a hospital in the Kansas City community is helping their employees' children ages 0-5, plus how they are helping a larger outreach of children ages 0-5 with special needs such as autism or other developmental delays. Learn how the B.E. Smith Family Center was founded, why it's the largest childcare facility in the Kansas City area, and the impact its programs are having in our community from Paloma's story. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Consider how unplugging from technology can help your mental health and your quality of sleep. Nutrition and exercise are two great lifestyle interventions that help support mental health. Give yourself grace no matter what you are going through – it's needed along the journey. Mentioned In The Episode: Advent Health Foresight Mental Health Clinic People Need P

Grace Gerber is a bright soul who cares deeply about her family, especially her two moms, Terry and Shelly. She was adopted from Vietnam, along with her brother, Matthew, and was brought over to the states when she was a little over a year old. She grew up knowing Terry and Shelly as her true parents, who raised her to be the caring and capable individual she is today. Grace has roots in Kansas City but is currently a fourth-year student at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. She is about to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in a unique field called Medical Illustration. First and foremost, she is an artist who thrives on creative challenges. She hopes to one day illustrate human anatomy and biological processes for medical companies, or biomedical research facilities. It was her equal love of art and science that led her to pursue this line of work. However, she insists she couldn't have done it without the ongoing recognition, encouragement, and support from her family. Their love for her stokes her love and passion for what she does. They inspire her every single day. Memorable Quotes: "Parents are parents. Love is love. I don't think gender should matter at all. It's about having that ongoing love and support and encouragement and wisdom in your life, and you can receive that from any gender." "The authoritative, protective energy in my life has always been female. So, I've grown up knowing that women are very powerful and brave, and I guess that's what makes having two moms different." "Our parents are like your rock. And for me, it's my entire family. I see my entire family as my rock. Not just my parents, my aunts and uncles, my grandparents, my cousins, they've all made a huge impact on my life." What You'll Learn: Moms of all types are important and should be celebrated for the tremendous work they do. This Episode Includes: Grace talks about being adopted from Vietnam and what that processed looked like for her two moms. She shares her thoughts on what it means to celebrate Mother's Day with two moms. Grace emphasizes the fact that gender doesn't matter, parents are parents, and love is the most important thing for a child. The Gerber family is very close-knit and enjoys doing outside activities and going on vacations together. Grace and her brother Matthew met their biological families in 2014 but she shares that it didn't impact her in any large way. Growing up, Grace always viewed her family as one single unit. She says her family is her rock. Grace ends the show by giving a few tidbits of advice on graduating college and how to be yourself in the process. Takeaways From Today's Episode: Celebrate moms today!

Jenn Nussbeck is the President of LeisLux, a philanthropy and event management agency. She served on numerous public charity boards as well as dedicated the last fifteen years to supporting organizations throughout the Kansas City communities, Assisting those navigating the philanthropy and civic channels is not only her work, but her passion. Currently, Jenn serves as Parade of Hearts Co-Chair as well as serving on the Lee's Summit Public Safety Board. Memorable Quotes: "I think in the bigger picture, it is just who Kansas City is. I think we are one of the best small, big cities. We are extremely philanthropic, and I think we have the true ownership of being called the Heartland." What You'll Learn: The inspiration behind the Kansas City Parada of Hearts and how to get involved. This Episode Includes: Jennifer shares that the original plan for the KC Parada of Hearts started at the University of Kansas Health System. They soon realized that this idea was bigger than just the University and made a plan to include the entire community. Jennifer attributes her desire for philanthropy to her parents. She says they instilled in her the value of giving back at an early age. There are 154 hearts placed around the region, across two states, five counties, and 30 different cities. The parade of hearts is a collaboration between community artists and city leaders. Four organizations will benefit from the funds raised by the parade of hearts. The parade of hearts will be on display till the end of May and the majority of hearts will be available for auction online and in-person during the month of June. Takeaways From Today's Episode: If you live in the KC area, try and go visit each of the 154 hearts on display. If you don't live in the KC area, try and consider how you can inspire your community to do their own parade of hearts. Mentioned In The Episode: KC Parade of Hearts Your Wellness Connection Sponsors A huge thank you to all our sponsors! AdventHealth CommunityAmerica YMCA of Greater Kansas City

Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, CEO and founder of the Everyday Wellness Project. She's an international speaker with over 10 million views for her second TEDx talk (Intermittent Fasting: Transformational Technique). With over 20 years of experience in health and wellness, Cynthia is a globally recognized expert in intermittent fasting and nutritional health. Cynthia developed this intermittent fasting plan after entering her forties and experiencing a health breakdown. Intermittent fasting didn't just help her lose weight; she had more energy, fewer cravings, and lower blood glucose levels. Cynthia has now worked with thousands of women in her private practice to make her unique program of intermittent fasting work for them, too. As Senior Healthy Living Director, Maggie enjoys connecting with people from all walks of life and helping them meet their goals. Maggie began her career at the Y in 2012, working as a youth exercise instructor, personal trainer and group exercise instructor. In May 2015, she became the Healthy Living Director at the Paul Henson Family YMCA. In November 2016, she moved into her current role, providing association-wide resources for healthy living. She also leads the Health Living team at the Kirk Family YMCA. Maggie grew up in Kansas and Alabama and graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration. She is an ACE certified personal trainer and YMCA certified group exercise instructor. Outside of work, Maggie enjoys camping, kayaking and cheering for the Kansas City Royals and Kansas Jayhawks. Memorable Quotes: "And when people ask, what are your feelings about moderation, not deprivation? I said the concept works. If you can moderate, if you can't moderate, then you eliminate." "I believe that if we tune into our bodies talking to us, and instead of trying to lose weight for a wedding or for a vacation, how about we release the weight, or we eat to thrive through life and to have our body function at a high level." "Being organized helps you achieve your goals, mainly by creating focus around those goals. So, when we think about being organized and we are thinking about our goals, usually we think about our big overall goal, which is great. We have to remember why we want to change and what our big goal is. But in order to get there, we have to take small steps." What You'll Learn: The benefits of intermittent fasting and tips to start intermittent fasting for beginners. Plus, learn how to get organized for fitness. This Episode Includes: Cynthia shares her story about how her health declined as soon as she hit perimenopause. After reading a book by Dr. Jason Fung she discovered the power of intermittent fasting. Cynthia began intermittent fasting and saw her health trajectory change. She encouraged her colleagues and patients in her private practice to begin intermittent fasting and saw even more success stories. Cynthia talks about some of the benefits of intermittent fasting like a healthier gut microbiome, more mental clarity, and higher energy levels. She shares her personal day-to-day life and how she incorporates fasting into her lifestyle. Cynthia also encourages the listeners to work with their healthcare providers if they want to start intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting is not for people who are pregnant, nursing, frail, underweight, or who have an eating disorder. Women who still have a menstrual cycle will need to fast differently than women who have gone through menopause and men. Cynthia ends by sharing three tips to get started with intermittent fasting. Maggie Little from the YMCA shares how to get organized for fitness. The YMCA has a program called Smart Sets where they help beginners learn how to properly handle equipment and set up a training plan. In order to achieve your goals, it's important to be organized. Pre-planning is critical to achieving your fitness goals. Analyze your time to see where you can better organize it. This will help you fit exercise into your schedule. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Teach yourself to stop snacking throughout the day. Increase your protein servings at each meal. Start your first fast from 6:00 P.M. at night to 8:00 A.M. the next morning. Mentioned In The Episode: Jason Fung YMCA Advent Health Community America Credit Union Intermittent Fasting Transformation

*** This recording is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be viewed as personalized financial advice and is not a substitute for consultation with your financial representative. Any reference to third-party websites are provided for information purposes only and are not endorsed by CommunityAmerica. Please visit CommunityAmerica.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your Financial Peace of Mind.*** *** Securities and advisory services offered through Copper Financial Network, LLC ("CuFi"), Member FINRA/SIPC. CuFi is a SEC registered investment adviser. Products offered through CuFi: 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. CuFi is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CommunityAmerica Credit Union. For important disclosures from CuFi, including our Form CRS, please visit here. *** Zik Nwanganga is passionate about helping people discover their purpose and maximize their true potential. Zik founded a leadership/entrepreneurial organization called FiredUp'. The goal of FiredUp' is to motivate young people to pursue their purpose by hearing about other leaders' failures and successes. Liz Armstead is a branch manager with CommunityAmerica Credit Union. She has been with them for five and a half years. Liz has three kids and two dogs. She loves to travel and go on adventures with her family. Memorable Quotes: "I fit here because I know that these are all human beings who are going through the same struggles, maybe in a different way, but they're all trying to pursue something." "He said that at the deathbed of anyone in the world, at the last breath, no one ever thinks, man, I should have spent more time at work. We always think, man, I should have spent more time with my family and friends because that's the most important thing." "I always find that having someone there to hold you accountable is a great option, whether it's a spouse or a family member or a financial adviser, someone at your credit Union." What You'll Learn: Inspirational words for aspiring young leaders and how to manage your money well through a budget. This Episode Includes: Zik started FiredUP' KC because of the challenges he went through during college. Zik believes that it doesn't matter what you're doing, it matters most who you are. Reading, following, and listening to other leaders will inspire you to find your own true potential. FiredUP' KC is about all the leaders and entrepreneurs in the KC area and building a community of support for aspiring young leaders. Zik shares that being a leader is to make work easier for whoever is under you, not harder. A friendly work environment is important to the success and overall happiness of everyone involved. Young people can start to pursue their passion by being willing to take a risk with whatever idea they have. Whatever you're doing, no matter what it is, do it to the best of your abilities because the one thing you're doing might lead to the main thing you want to do. Building a budget is all about setting goals and knowing what you want to put your money toward. Liz shares several ways to start building a budget and how to get help when starting out. A budget helps reduce stress by giving you peace of mind about how much money you actually have. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Find one inspirational leader who you look up to and learn how they got to where they are today. Set goals for your life and career – those can be one-year goals or five-year goals. Start a budget around your goals. Mentioned In The Episode: FiredUP' KC Go-Giver by Bob Burg Bob Burg on Small Changes Big Shifts Rachel Hollis Girl Wash Your Face Advent Health CommunityAmerica Credit Union YMCA

Britt Frank is a clinician, educator, and trauma specialist. She does aerial hoop for fun and her name is not short for Brittany. One of her favorite books of all time is The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. Her shih tzu Oscar is the cutest dog on the planet (She says she may be a bit biased) Britt was an award-winning adjunct professor at KU. She is an alumnus of both Duke University and KU. Britt wrote The Science of Stuck because it was the book that didn't exist when she started her healing journey Jennifer Bulcock, MD, is a Board-certified family physician with AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Spring Hill. Dr. Bulcock provides care for patients of all ages with a wide range of health needs. After earning a bachelor of science in biology and health service administration from Washburn University, she earned her medical degree at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, She worked as a family physician in Garnett, Kansas, and then Dr. Bulcock joined AdventHealth Medical Group in 2022. When she's not at the office, she enjoys quality time with her husband and two young daughters and spending time outdoors, especially when she is on the golf course or in her garden. Memorable Quotes: "We are experts at shaming ourselves and beating ourselves up, and nothing will render us inert faster than shame. Not all behaviors are excusable, but everything makes sense in context. And if shaming ourselves worked, it would have worked by now. So, if we can get accurate information and dump the shame, we can all get moving." "Motion is lotion, stuck turns into unstuck the second you take a step in any direction." "It's very easy to feel overwhelmed. That's the kind of obvious thing. But really, folks can feel overwhelmed for various reasons. It doesn't have to be something as big as a pandemic to drive people to feel overwhelmed." What You'll Learn: The simplest of steps can help you feel unstuck and take back control of the feeling of overwhelm in your life. This Episode Includes: Most people don't need a deep dive into behavioral health they just need to scratch the surface and that's what the Science of Stuck does. One reason people get stuck is because they don't have the right information. Mental health has very little to do with your mind and a lot to do with your body. A central nervous system that's stuck in a variety of responses is going to present with symptoms of anxiety or depression. The best way to support children who are feeling stuck is to make them feel as safe and loved as possible. Nothing will get you out of a negative thought loop faster than asking this question, how true is this? When evaluating mental wellness Dr. Bulcock looks at each person's sense of worth, each person's sense of purpose, and each person's sense of peace. And that looks very different for everybody. Overwhelmed feelings originate from a sense of lack of control. Some people can manage their feelings of overwhelm while others need outside help and direction to manage those feelings. Clutter brings in external stimuli and one of the best ways to reduce feelings of overwhelm is to declutter. You are in the driver's seat of your life and only you get to determine if you drive or if fear drives. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Ask yourself this question next time you have negative thoughts, how true is this? Make your home a safe and loving space for your children to help support their mental health. Take ten minutes to declutter one section of your home every day to help reduce feelings of overwhelm. Mentioned In The Episode: The Science of Stuck Advent Health YMCA

Robyn Stevens is a master at finding balance and creating a harmonious living environment through Feng Shui She believes that what we surround ourselves with has a direct effect on all aspects of our lives Robyn visits people from all walks of life, including Fortune 500 execs, business owners, students, and stay-at-home moms, and transforms their spaces—and their lives. She finds out about their relationships with themselves, others, and their things in order to help them create a space that welcomes new opportunities and good energy. A genius at breaking down the fascinating complexities of Feng Shui in an entertaining and simple way, Robyn is a frequent TV guest and a highly sought-after speaker. Certified in 2012, Robyn launched her business Robyn Stevens Feng Shui in 2013. She is also a member of the International Feng Shui Guild. Memorable Quotes: "Feng Shui is the art of designing environments in harmony with the flow of energy in your living space. And then the flow of energy in your living space directly impacts or influences your own personal energy or your life force." "Chronic clutter can cause anxiety and anger, and depression. It kills our productivity, our focus, our creativity, motivation, all of it. And sometimes kids just can't do it themselves. They need a decluttering buddy to come in and help them get organized." "Free your space not only from the things you're eating, but also the stuff around you, and the thoughts you have. And I think Feng Shui will help open the gateways to doing that." What You'll Learn: Feng Shui helps you free your space and allows you to flourish as the person you are meant to be. This Episode Includes: Whatever is going on in your life, good or bad, most often mirrors how you're living in your home. The Feng Shui principles of balance and harmony naturally bring down stress levels in your home and helps free your space. The International Feng Shui Guild has an online resource where you can search for Feng Shui providers near you. It's important for caretakers and parents to live in a space that is harmonious with who they are and be an example for their children. The first step to Feng Shui in your child's room is to make sure everything in it is age-appropriate. It's important to let your child's room show their taste in style not the parent's taste in style. Chronic clutter can cause anxiety and anger, and depression. It kills productivity, focus, creativity, and motivation. Even paint colors can impact how a space feels, for example too much red induces anger and black can cause depression. Robyn shares a few stories of how she has been able to work with clients on Feng Shui in their homes. She has been able to help children come into themselves and build confidence through Feng Shui. Life can be difficult, and there are so many things that are out of your control. But what is in your control is the little bit of space that you have. If your space is clean and organized and decluttered, that's going to raise your own personal energy. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Encourage your children to declutter and let go of things that don't fit with who they are. Make sure your children's rooms are full of age-appropriate items. Be an example for your children and teach them how to live in and maintain a clean, comfortable space. Mentioned In The Episode: Mindy Corporon Big Shifts Foundation International Feng Shui Guild Wellness on a Shoestring Advent Health Brookside Super Gut by Dr. William Davis

Hosea Hayword started going to Your Wellness Connection in 2020 when his health took a turn for the worse. Over the last two years, he has achieved a level of well-being he didn't think possible. When you listen to Hosea's story, you'll understand that he is an expert at being authentic. From holding his mom as she died in his arms to convincing the Lincoln University President to help him stay in college, Hosea is always true to himself. Hosea's been married 33 years and has two daughters and two grandchildren. He loves hanging out with all his family, especially his grandson. He's had his own business for 34 years in computerized auto search. Memorable Quotes: "You must heal the heart to heal the body." "That helped me realize a lot of things, that helped me realize that I should just try to be Bruce Wayne and not play Batman. And so, by just being Bruce Wayne I took some of this pressure off." "There were no drugs and none of that stuff, and so I was being myself, just being myself and being willing to get the right help and overcome it." What You'll Learn: Being authentic will help you heal your heart and in turn, heal your whole body. This Episode Includes: Hosea shares the story of how he held his mother in his arms as she died after being shot in the head. His family moved him and his sister and brother to Kansas City, Missouri after his mother's death. After a few more difficult life events, Hosea decided to attend college at Lincoln University. He started college with $25 his dad gave him and not a penny more. Hosea was almost kicked out of college due to not having any money but through perseverance, he convinced the University President to help him out. Hosea graduated college, got married, and started his own business. Around 2020 his health took a turn for the worse. His blood pressure medication began to severely affect his sleep. A mutual friend connected Hosea to Dr. Robin and Your Wellness Connection. Through Hosea's authenticity and perseverance, he was able to achieve healing without medication. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Don't take for granted the power of telling others your story, it may open paths you didn't even know existed. Go donate to the Big Shifts Foundation to help us raise 30k for the kids. Practice being authentic today. Mentioned In The Episode: Big Shifts Foundation Your Wellness Connection Community America Credit Union Advent Health Notes to Self Socks

*** This recording is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be viewed as personalized financial advice and is not a substitute for consultation with your financial representative. Any reference to third-party websites are provided for information purposes only and are not endorsed by CommunityAmerica. Please visit CommunityAmerica.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your Financial Peace of Mind.*** *** Securities and advisory services offered through Copper Financial Network, LLC ("CuFi"), Member FINRA/SIPC. CuFi is a SEC registered investment adviser. Products offered through CuFi: 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. CuFi is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CommunityAmerica Credit Union. For important disclosures from CuFi, including our Form CRS, please visit here. *** About Alex Borgardts Alex is a Wealth Advisor with Wealth Management by Community America. He helps his clients understand the 'WHY' behind their goals and aspirations. His goal is to make the financial planning process seamless so that the path to a meaningful life full of freedom, comfort, and peace is clearer and more attainable. Alex is also an Officer in the Army Reserve and is proud to serve our country. In his spare time, Alex enjoys going to the lake and barbecuing with his spouse. About Amber Ogle Amber Ogle lives in Olympia, Washington, and is a wife and mom to seven kids. She is the founder of the ELGO – Everyday Love Giving with the Ogle's Facebook page. Amber is passionate about teaching her seven children how to give back to the community. She believes in creating a ripple effect by being a go-giver and hopes to impart that quality to her children and others in the community. Memorable Quotes: "A penny saved is a penny earned." - Benjamin Franklin "First and foremost, I think an important part of financial planning is making sure that you have the groundwork played and you've got some security." "I think the last item that I'd point to is investing in yourself. So, if you have all those financial planning goals, both short and near term in place, you might consider ways that you can add a return on investment in your career or your life in other ways." "And I think hope is a vitamin in our life that we need to just keep moving forward." "Plant seeds inside your soul that you want more of. It's better than any high you can ever get. I believe it's a high of giving." "My mom always said to me when I was young to plant trees that you'll never sit under, do for others without expecting anything in return, because that's just who you are. And that stuck with me as a child." What You'll Learn: What to do with a large sum of money and how to integrate your long and short-term financial goals. And learn how to teach your children to give back to their community with a heart full of compassion. This Episode Includes: The first step to financial planning is making sure you have security with an emergency fund. The next thing Alex suggests you do is pay off any high-interested debt. A few ways to use a large sum of money, like a tax return, include: investing in your child's future, investing in your business, or investing in your career. When setting up an emergency fund you want to have enough funds for rent or mortgages, auto payments, utilities, fuel, food, and daycare expenses. Alex shares ideas on where to house your money whether it be for short-term use or long-term investment. It's important to talk to an advisor when deciding on long-term care and life insurance options. It helps to visualize your goals when deciding where and how to spend your money. Wealth advisors want to have long-term relationships with their clients. When looking for a wealth advisor it's important to find someone who understands your life stage and objectives. Amber shares a story about how her family and neighborhood raised $2,500 for people suffering in Ukraine. Amber learned how to be a go-giver as a child when one person stepped in to help her family make it through a hard time. Hope is an essential nutrient that Amber believes everyone needs in their life. In fourth grade, Amber helped one little girl who was teased for her dirty hair and clothes. Supporting that little girl stuck with Amber throughout the rest of her life. Each of Amber's children has their own little charities that they create and support each year like the Ogle's Birthday Closet or Sweat Dreams Blankets. As a family, the Ogle's create and disperse Thanksgiving in a Basket to those in need in their community. Teaching your child how to give back to the community starts by getting them involved and showing them the impact that they can have. Takeaways From Today's Episode: Set up an emergency fund with three months' worth of expenses. Consider working with a financial advisor to help set long and sh

Tess Masters is an actor, cook, lifestyle personality, and author of The Blender Girl, The Perfect Blend, The Detox Dynamo Cleanse, and The Blender Girl Smoothies app and book. In high demand as a spokesperson, presenter, and recipe developer, Tess collaborates with leading food and lifestyle brands. Tess is the global spokesperson for KitchenAid blenders, ambassador for Massel broths, and has presented videos for Sprouts Market, Silk, So Delicious, Earthbound Farm, Vega, Driscoll's, KitchenIQ, and others. Not to mention, Tess is a dear friend of Dr. Robin's and an expert at celebrating everyone she meets. Memorable Quotes: "So, I think another way of framing self-esteem and self-belief and faith is this: celebrating yourself. And I think that there's this misconception that if you do that, you're a narcissist or you're egotistical or you're into yourself. Well, yeah, be into yourself." "The dictionary says well-being equals happiness. In my definition of wellbeing, after being in the space for 40 years, is when your mind, body, and spirit don't get in your way of living." "When you can't give a full-throated, complete, energetic yes to somebody, you're actually doing everyone a favor by taking your 'yes' off the table with that person or that organization or that job or whatever, because then it allows the energy to shift and then to get the full-throated yes from somebody who's really able to give it." "That's a really important way of celebrating others is not being distracted by other things and being completely present in the moment with that person." What You'll Learn: The various ways to celebrate big wins and everyday small wins in your life and the lives of those around you. This Episode Includes: Tess learned how to celebrate people in her life by watching her parents demonstrate that behavior when she was a child. When you meet someone new try to learn and remember their name. Life is like a seesaw and you have to find your balance somewhere in the middle. One way to frame self-esteem and self-belief is by celebrating yourself. Celebrating oneself doesn't have to be egotistical when it's done from the posture of filling your cup so you can give back to the world. Speak to your limiting beliefs and practice positive self-talk. Do something nice for yourself each day. Create one-on-one relationships and connect with those people on a regular basis. Accept compliments without qualifiers. Nourish and celebrate your body by taking care of it with a healthy lifestyle. You can celebrate someone by connecting them to another person who will greatly impact their life. Be discerning about the kind of people you surround yourself with and the energy they emanate. When you live from a place of gratitude and abundance time is your best friend, when you live from a place of depletion, time is your greatest enemy. When you learn how to celebrate yourself and others you elevate the world. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Be a mindful, global citizen. Expand and endorse. Think about who you could endorse that can help expand their network. Let your energy be infectious. Mentioned In The Episode: The Blender Girl True Colors Big Shifts Foundation Tess Masters on Small Changes Big Shifts Episode 63 Tess Masters on Small Changes Big Shifts Episode 263

Sheryl Hammontree founded Thoughtful Threads apparel as a way to build connection by spreading messages of empowerment, equality, love, and kindness. With every item she designs, she's intentional about choosing words and sayings that radiate positive vibes inside and out. Creating and making stuff brings Sheryl joy, she loves to paint and decorate children's furniture and birdhouses. She has a flower garden in the middle of her yard made up entirely from perennials given to her by important women in her life. She loves to garden and makes awesome pickles. She owned a gym for 15 years and can do 100 pull-ups faster than she can run a mile. She met, dated, fell in love, and married her husband, Joel—before social media. They go mountain biking and ride bikes together on the trail, road, and gravel. Memorable Quotes: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead "-words matter. It matters what you tell yourself. It matters what you tell other people. It matters how you say it." "If I wear a shirt that says unite, well, that holds me accountable. It holds me accountable to live my values, and it also can spark a conversation or encourage someone else to do the same." "You cannot depend on your eyes if your imagination is out of focus." - Mark Twain "Kindness is more important than wisdom, and the recognition of this is the beginning of wisdom." What You'll Learn: How words can draw us together to create connection and compassion with others. This Episode Includes: The inspiration behind Thoughtful Threads was to spread messages of kindness in a world that had become less kind. Robin shares a story about meaningful words from her childhood chiropractor which led her to where she is today. Robin plans to celebrate 30 years in practice during the month of March. Sheryl talks about choosing sustainable materials for her business. It's easy to look at the division in the world but Sheryl encourages us to find common ground. Thoughtful Threads use words and design to create clothes that empower those who wear them. One goal of Thoughtful Threads is to create shirts that will start a conversation and create a connection between people. Sheryl's parents were the ones who inspired her to be kind to everyone. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Consider how you can "wear" your values today. Speak kind words to yourself and those around you. Use your imagination to think about one small change you can make to contribute kindness to the world. Mentioned In The Episode: Small Changes Big Shifts Podcast W/ Dan Britton & Jimmy Page All Made Your Wellness Connection Advent Health Community America Credit Union People Need People Thoughtful Threads

This recording is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be viewed as personalized financial advice and is not a substitute for consultation with your financial representative. Any reference to third-party websites are provided for information purposes only and are not endorsed by CommunityAmerica. Please visit CommunityAmerica.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your Financial Peace of Mind. Essence was born and raised in Kansas City. She obtained a Bachelor's degree from Avila University in Sociology and her MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. Her grandparents are professors so her family always held education to a high standard. Essence has been with Community America Credit Union for six years and is a Financial Well Being Coach and Branch Manager. She and her husband have two boys aged 13 and 6 – which means there is never a dull moment in their household. Her favorite food is tacos and she could eat them every day of the week. Essence's goal is to advocate for all things that strengthen her community and she believes teaching financial literacy is her way of giving back. Dr. Heath Wilt is an invasive cardiologist with AdventHealth Medical Group. He also serves as medical director for AdventHealth Shawnee Mission's cardiovascular service line. He is Board-certified in cardiovascular disease, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, and cardiac CT. He earned his medical degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. In 2019, Dr. Wilt was named a Kansas City Top Doctor by Ingram's magazine. Dr. Wilt has always had a fondness for cardiology. To him, there's something inherently intimate about the heart—both from a physical, but also emotional aspect. Memorable Quotes: "When your financial health is not so great, your mental health can be bad. And so, we want to make sure that we're helping with those life stages and life plans by helping you be successful with your finances in whatever way that may mean." From my perspective as a holistic practitioner, we look at the mechanical, chemical, energetical, psychospiritual. So, sometimes people have an emotional heart disease as well as a physical heart disease." "The role of diet and lifestyle cannot be understated. And this is where there's been a paradigm shift in the last few years with medicine." What You'll Learn: Advice on how to prioritize your financial well-being and how to take care of your heart health. This Episode Includes: Essence Yancey describes financial literacy as understanding how finances play a key role in your life and in your health. Financial literacy is especially important for the communities that don't necessarily grow up learning about finances. Community America Credit Union strives to teach individuals from adolescents to adults about financial literacy. When your financial health is not great your mental health can take a hit, too. Setting goals and creating a budget are both important aspects of financial well-being. Starting small, like tracking your spending for 30 days, is a good way to start your journey towards financial literacy. When you start small with your finances you will experience less stress. Chronic, physical, and emotional stress can lead to a cascade of events that result in high blood pressure, sleep disorders, and muscle breakdown that then cause inflammation which influences cholesterol or plaque deposit in the heart. Wilt talks about how he got started as a cardiologist and his passion for talking with and educating patients. Wilt discusses the whole-body connection in regards to heart health. It's important that each patient is given an individualized approach. There are several different types of cardiologists: invasive and non-invasive. Diet and lifestyle are two of the most important things people can do to support their heart health. When managing your heart health it's important to have an open line of communication with your providers. It's also critical to understand that you have to meet your providers halfway. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Start your journey towards financial literacy by tracking your spending for one month. Prioritize heart health by pursuing a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Reduce stress and support your well-being by going on 30-minute walk five days a week. Mentioned In The Episode: Community America Credit Union Advent Health The Alchemist In My Life by the Beatles Living at this Summit by Dr. Tom Hill and Brett Blair American Heart Association

Jason started his journey as a student at Lifeonaire in 2009. He was able to turn everything around, reinvent himself, and design a life of true joy, passion, fulfillment and freedom with the help of Lifeonaire. His gratitude for the Lifeonaire message and philosophy, along with his desire to empower and encourage others led to him first becoming a Titanium coach, then lead event instructor, and now CEO of Lifeonaire. He has been blessed with a beautiful wife, three daughters, a dog named Rusty, and lives in North Carolina. For fun, he "lifts things up and puts them down", plays electric guitar in the worship band at his church, and spends time with his family. Memorable Quotes: It's not really about weight. It's about how you feel on the inside with what you're thinking about, what you're putting on your body, what you're putting in your body. And the weight will take care of itself most of the time. He said, why does everybody keep saying to me, I want to be a millionaire? And it hit him. He's like, what they really want is the life they think the money is going to buy them. They want to be a lifeonaire. And I think we confuse the vehicle with the destination. Business is supposed to be the vehicle to the life we want. When you understand and you fully spend the time to think about what's most important to you, I think you quickly realize it's people. In most cases, it's people. What You'll Learn: Why it is so important to envision and create the life you want apart from material possessions or business success. This Episode Includes: Jason shares that his first job was working with the Navy and how even after pursuing that job for 15 years it wasn't his passion. His job with the Navy provided two things: financial wealth and a lot of hours spent at work. Michelle talks about how what you're putting on your body and what you're putting in your body are critical for wellbeing. Jason decided to shift gears and became involved in real estate investing where he met Steve Cook. Steve coined the term Lifeonaire after finding financial success and still feeling like his life wasn't fulfilling. Lifeonaire teaches the principles of life first, business second. Michelle shares how people told her to go big and sell her business in 2013 but she realized that helping people find wellbeing was her calling in life. Someone who is a lifeonaire has the perspective that they are going to have the life they want regardless of the money they earn. Jason talks about his family and how going through lifeonaire helped his relationships with his daughters and his spouse. Lifeonaire encourages you to make time for the people in your life who matter the most. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Go read the Lifeonaire book or check out the Lifeonaire podcast to begin learning how to live the life you want. Make a list of what's important to you outside of business success. Share this episode with one person you want to go with you on this Lifeonaire journey. Mentioned In The Episode: Lifeonaire Home Page - Lifeonaire Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentoring Program Community America Credit Union Advent Health Sheryl Hammontree Thoughtful Threads Dan Britton and Jimmy Page on Small Changes Big Shifts One Word by Dan Britton and Jimmy Page

Daneen West is a Cisco Customer Success Executive, mother of three, and Brain Health Coach. For the past 21 years, Daneen has worked for Cisco Systems, designing, and leading industry award-winning talent development programs After years of being on the verge of burnout, she is professionally more resilient, energized, and mentally sharp than decades earlier because of discovering brain health, where all the power is to up-level your life. Certified through the NeuroLeadership Institute and Amen Clinics, Brain Health has transformed every area of Daneen's life, and she is compelled to provide the opportunity for others to ease anxiety, boost focus and finally work on their sleep struggles. Daneen's Brain-Boosting checklist is a great resource to discover practical tips to heal, protect and grow the brain (See below). Memorable Quotes: "So as parents, if we have that intuition like that, something's wrong, check it out. And if the first doctor may not, if you don't resonate there, you're not being heard. Keep pursuing it." "It's not a badge of honor to stay up all night. Right. Our culture sometimes will make you feel that way or sleep when you're dead. But there's so much that we've learned now around sleep. That's because it is the only way that our brain detoxes every night." "As you're walking through this journey, you're going to come across ideas, thoughts, music, books, people and they're going to feel right or they're not. I'm going to encourage you to trust yourself. Just because it works for me doesn't mean it works for you." "What makes the brain work is what you put in your mind, what you put on your body, what you put in your mouth." What You'll Learn: Why brain health is important and how to pursue a healthy brain through small lifestyle changes. This Episode Includes: Daneen first started looking into brain health when three different doctors diagnosed her son with three different issues: sensory processing, ADD, and Asperger's. After a long journey of searching, Daneen finally came to the realization that brain health was at the root cause of her son's health situation. Daneen found the Brain Balance Program which revolutionized the way she viewed brain health for herself and her children. She believes her health journey is a forever resource which she now shares with others through her coaching program. Robin reminds the audience that health is layered and that there are many factors that can influence brain health. Daneen shares that the first step to supporting brain health is getting good quality sleep. Getting sleep is how the brain detoxifies itself from neurotoxins incurred throughout the day. Daneen shares a few more steps to supporting brain health in children like eating enough healthy fats and getting energy out early in the morning through jumping ropes or jumping jacks. Sleep is one of Dr. Robin's three non-negotiables for a well life. Daneen encourages parents to model the health behavior the would like to see in their children. Daneen and Dr. Robin both agree that small steps are the key to success when pursuing a healthy brain. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Practice getting good quality sleep each night this week. Add enough healthy fats to your diet to support your energy levels and brain health. Do 50 jumping jacks with your kids before they head off to school in the morning to help them release energy and feel encouraged through exercising together. Mentioned In The Episode: Community America Credit Union Advent Health Brain Balencing Program Mark Nepo Unleash the Power of the Female Brain by Dr. Aman Bruse on Small Changes Big Shifts Brain Boosting Checklist

As the Executive Director of Kansas City Corporate Challenge, Lacey Fisher is headed into her seventh season with the organization while the Games themselves are entering their 43rd year. Although originally from western Kansas, Lacey has taken to becoming a KCMO transplant and enjoys all things Kansas City including BBQ, the Royals, and of course the Chiefs. Lacey earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!) and her Master's Degree of Leisure, Youth, & Human Services from the University of Northern Iowa. At any given time, Lacey can be found involved in some type of competition or sporting endeavor whether it be pursuing her interest as an unlikely runner, organizing events, or watching her favorite sports teams. Memorable Quotes: "If you've been, no explanation is necessary. If you haven't, none is adequate" – Lou Holtz "We know that no one goes it alone. And that's why it's important that people have friends that go for a walk with them or they take a podcast, and maybe we're on a walk with you today or a bike ride or on your Peloton. And however you're consuming this podcast today, we're delighted to be sharing that journey with you." "It's the people. It's always the people. And it's seeing the participants do things they've never done before, whether it's on the half marathon, one year there was a participant out there, and I'm not making this up, she was nine months pregnant!" What You'll Learn: The heart of the Kansas City Corporate Challenge and how to participate in the challenge. This Episode Includes: This episode is dedicated to our good friend Mary Elmwick who was a big influence in Dr. Robin's life. Robin shares the acronym that she wrote for Mary's funeral service in 2021: SEEDS which stands for Sight, Encouragement, Enlightenment, and Dash. Robin encourages people to live in the "dash" between the year they are born and the year they die, to live life to the fullest. Lacey Fisher shares that the Kansas City Corporate Challenge started in response to the U.S. protesting the 1980's Moscow Olympics. The mission of the Kansas City Corporate Challenge is to promote health, wellness, and camaraderie within the business community. It is the oldest and largest corporate games in the country. The idea is that they present the participants with physical endeavors designed to challenge their bodies and minds through the spirit of corporate competition. The KCCC also includes a program called "Lunch and Learns" where participants are provided sessions on everything from stress management to nutrition and even self-defense. Lacey shares a few stories from the challenge, that her favorite challenges are the races, and how corporations can register. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Don't go it alone – take a friend with you on a walk or listen to a podcast episode on your drive to work. Consider how you can build camaraderie in your community - maybe encourage your co-workers to sign up for a 5k together or invite a few friends over for a homemade dinner. If you're in the area encourage your workplace to join the KCCC. Mentioned In The Episode: Kansas City Corporate Challenge The Dash by Linda Ellis

Dr. Tereza Hubkova is board-certified in internal medicine, integrative and holistic medicine. Her breadth of experience allows her to see your health from many angles. With additional training in functional medicine, lifestyle medicine and herbalism, she has many tools in her toolbox that equip her to look for the underlying root cause of disease. She finds a natural approach to health and healing often more rewarding and safer than pharmaceuticals, but prescribes medications when necessary. Dr. Hubkova takes time to listen to your story and works like a detective looking for clues and solutions where others have not. Before relocating to Overland Park in 2019 to lead the AdventHealth Whole Health Institute, Dr. Hubkova served high-profile clients at the internationally known Canyon Ranch Spa in Lenox, Massachusetts, for ten years. Memorable Quotes: "When diet is bad, medicine is of no use. But if your diet is good, then medicine is of no need." "Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." "I think we shouldn't postpone good decisions and just do it. I don't believe in too many resolutions. I think just when you remember that you fell off the track, just change that. Don't wait, change it the next morning or change it that same evening whenever you realize that you have made some bad choices." What You'll Learn: Encouragement to get back on track with your health resolutions and tips on how to stay healthy in the winter. This Episode Includes: Getting back to the basics of health is critical to stay healthy during winter. Sleep, a good diet, and staying hydrated are important basics. The Whole Health Institute with AdventHealth truly supports a holistic approach to medicine. Most diseases are caused by imbalances in our lifestyle, like not getting enough sleep or letting stress get out of hand. Lifestyle medicine is about preventing disease and making lifestyle changes to support whole-person health. It's never too late to start changing your perspective on health and making good health decisions. Negative emotions can cause inflammation so your mindset is just as important to overall health as a good diet. Getting back on track with your health is as simple as deciding you are going to do it. Don't wait till the next holiday, change your habits when you notice them. Tune in to your body and listen to what it's telling you about your health. Through the Culinary Genomics program, individuals get to look at their genes and then cook food that supports those genes. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Considering joining the Culinary Genomics program with AdventHealth to get an in-depth look at your genes and learn how you can cook to support your overall health. Make the decision right now to get back on track with your health resolutions. Practice better sleep habits, drink enough water, and eat lots of vegetables to stay healthy this winter! Mentioned In The Episode: Whole Health Institute AdventHealth Culinary Genomics William Davis Wheat Belly Super Gut

Dr. William Davis is a cardiologist and New York Times #1 bestselling author of the Wheat Belly book series, Undoctored, and of the new book Super Gut. Dr. Davis believes that given the right information and tools, magnificent health is achievable without prescription drugs and without medical procedures. Instead, what you need are the basic principles of nutrition. With those, you can address common nutrient deficiencies and a disrupted gut microbiome. Dr. Davis is the Medical Director and founder of the Undoctored program including the Undoctored Inner Circle. He is also a podcast host of the Defiant Health Radio podcast where he talks about the gut microbiome and other health topics. Memorable Quotes: "In other words, we're exposed almost daily to things that disrupt the microbiome. And there's two major consequences. One is we've lost important species. We've lost some unimportant species, too. So that doesn't make a big difference, but we've lost very important species that are crucial for human health." "But I think you and I, your listeners, have the power to achieve astounding endpoints and health by putting the microbiome to work in ways that are unfolding now." "If you want this to be your year, don't sit on the couch and wait for it. Go out. Make a change. Smile more. Be excited. Do new things like grow some probiotics. Throw away clutter, unfollow negative people on social media. Go to bed early. Wake up early. Don't gossip. Show more gratitude. Do things that challenge you and be brave." What You'll Learn: The gut microbiome is critical to reversing chronic health problems and optimizing your overall health. This Episode Includes: Robin shares how Dr. Davis healed her gallbladder issue nearly a decade ago. Davis reflects on his inspiration for his new book "Super Gut." According to Dr. Davis, people who followed his Wheat Belly program were healed most of the way, but not all the way. Super Gut is his response to lead people to optimal health. The gut microbiome is key to health but modern-day living has diminished many necessary microbes. Antibiotics, environmental toxins, and even unhealthy food cause a disruption in the gut microbiome. Fermented food has the ability to add beneficial microbes back into the gut. Davis talks about how most doctors will ignore SIBO (small intestinal bacteria overgrowth), even though it is treatable. Most modern chronic diseases have a root cause in the gut microbiome. Davis shares his opinion on formula versus breastmilk and encourages women to feed their baby breastmilk. Robin emphasizes the importance of optimizing your health one step at a time. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Get the new book "Super Gut" by Dr. William Davis. Join Dr. Michelle Robin on her journey to a healthy gut by following the program laid out by Dr. Davis in Super Gut. Add more fermented food to your diet like kimchi, sauerkraut, or kefir. Mentioned In The Episode: Thryve Gutzoomer Super Gut Advent Health Community America Credit Union Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

At nine-years old John O'Leary was burned on 100% of his body from an accident he caused while playing in the garage with matches and gasoline. He was given a 1% chance to live. After dozens of surgeries and years of physical therapy, he survived. For 20 years, the family didn't talk about what happened. John simply wanted his life to go on as normal. That is until John's parents wrote a book titled "Overwhelming Odds" that told the story of the family's experience. That book, combined with a short presentation for a three-member girl scout group, ignited the rest of John's life work and calling. John is now the president of Live Inspired, a keynote speaker, author, and podcast host. He shares his story with others and inspires them to live meaningful lives in spite of hardship and tragedy. John's is an agent of inspirational living and master at overcoming adversity. Memorable Quotes: "If you are in the season of struggle or the season of loss, recognize first and foremost that you are not alone." "It's okay to mourn. It's okay to experience that grief, and it's okay in the midst of the season to also look forward to cast a vision of profound possibility because of faith. You know, God's not done with your story yet. I think the best is yet to come." "Take the setback for the setup and take the next right step forward." "One day you will be just a memory for some people, do your best to be a good one." What You'll Learn: How to overcome the challenges life throws at you and how to be there for someone else who is going through a hardship. This Episode Includes: A brief introduction to John O'leary's story and how he persevered with the help of others. The red plate tradition that is special to John's family and the importance of celebration. You have talents you are blessed with – don't burry those talents, use them for yourself and for others. If you are in a season of hardship or loss, remember that you are not alone. John encourages the listeners to cast a vision for the future even in the midst of suffering. John shares the story about how his dad's love is what set up his journey towards healing emotionally and physically. Stop sleepwalking through life. Ignite it with hope, faith, and awe that you are alive. John shares his plans for the year 2022 and what he hopes to accomplish personally and professionally. His phrase for the year is "Seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." Four things you can do to show up for someone who is suffering. Four ways you can create life time relationships with people. What is most personal is most universal. Your story is not unique just to you. You matter, you are loved, you have unique skill sets, and you are going to be used for a mighty purpose. You can use your story in a way that is of service to those around you. Ignite your life with the thrill of hope. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Read John's book, "On Fire," to start your new year feeling inspired and motivated. Consider how you can show up for someone in pain and bring others to show up for them too. Write this message on a sticky note, "In the thrill of hope." Place that sticky note on your desk or fridge and remind yourself that each day holds the thrill of hope. Mentioned In The Episode: 31-day kindness campaign Matt Miller Interview Live Inspired Past John O'Leary Interview On Fire by John O'Leary Big Brothers, Big Sisters Just Be Held by Casting Crowns Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Jimmy Page and Dan Britton are both leaders of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Jimmy is a speaker, author, triathlete, fitness leader, and co-author of three books: Wisdom Walks, Wisdom Walks Sports, and Pray Fit. He also hosts a weekly radio show called Fit Fridays. Jimmy is an adventure seeker, he went skydiving with each of his kids for their 18th birthday, and he loves Country Music! Dan is a speaker, author, and marathon runner. He is a former professional lacrosse player who has coauthored two books, Wisdom Walks and Wisdom Walks SPORTS. Dan is also the author and editor of eleven FCA books. Memorable Quotes: "And I remember just having to say no to a lot of things, getting rid of a lot of things that were probably pretty good things. But they weren't helping me make progress towards the most important things. So it began that journey of, as you say, simple changes that made a big shift or, in this case, a big difference in our lives." "And that's part of the beauty of "One Word" is God will do things in your life. If you're open to it, you'll see things happen. You'll be like, man, I did not see that coming when I picked this word, and that's a beautiful part of it." "We all have barnacles on us from life, whether it's what we're eating, who we're around, the thoughts we're having." "Now some days are better than others. But when we count each day and there's no wasted days, we develop a heart of wisdom." What You'll Learn: How to implement the concept of choosing one word to permeate your year and give you purpose and direction. This Episode Includes: The origin story of the One Word concept was born out of one challenging conversation with a friend. The first word Dan chose as his "One Word" in 2000 was "intimacy." Jimmy learned about the "One Word" concept from Dan during an accountability group session and it immediately clicked. Jimmy realized he needed to let go of the noise and focus. Jimmy and Dan share a few words their children have chosen in the past like "overflow" and "due." The duo shares how both of their families choose a word each year and make a painting of it on a canvas. Robin shares her word from 2021, which was surrender, and her new word for 2022. Dan and Jimmy coach Dr. Robin through the word she chose, "trust," and how to implement it in her life. Dan and Jimmy talk about the six dimensions: physical, mental, spiritual, relational, emotional, and financial. They relate it to Dr. Robin's four quadrants of wellbeing: mechanical, chemical, energetic, psychospiritual. It's important to remember your "One Word" throughout the year so it truly saturates your entire year, not just January 1st. Dan shares that his word for 2022 is "rattle." Jimmy is still praying about his word. Dan and Jimmy give several takeaways about choosing your "One Word" and how to implement it in your life. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Don't put too much pressure on choosing your "One Word" for 2022. Go through the process. Go through the three steps of looking in, looking up, and looking out to choose your word. Decide how you will ruminate on your word this year. Maybe it's painting the word on a canvas and hanging it in your bedroom or maybe it's buying a plaque with the word on it for your office. Whatever you choose, find a way to focus on your word throughout the year. Mentioned In The Episode: "The Ten Rules for Resilience" by Joe De Sena The Four Quadrants of Wellbeing One Word by Dan Britton, Jimmy Page, and Jon Gordon Com Kari Jobe - Speak To Me Big Shifts Foundation

In this episode of Small Changes Big Shifts our very own Chief Operations Officer, Jamie Durner, comes on the show to interview Dr. Michelle Robin about the mission and vision of the podcast. Jamie is a whole person practitioner, wellbeing program developer and facilitator, and a health, life, and business mentor and coach. She started working with Small Changes Big Shifts in 2021. Memorable Quotes: "I know that there's a lot of uncertainty in the world, but what I am certain about is if you will dial into your own inner-knowing, and you'll do more good stuff than bad stuff for your body on a daily basis, when you lay your head down on your pillow at night, that you will have your health." "I want to make sure I use all the talent that God or Creator gave me." "Jamie, I'm afraid every day. I'm a fear-based personality. So, you know, I'm afraid every day, but I do it anyway. I want to tell you I don't like getting on stage. I don't like being on camera. I do it anyway because I feel the calling of my spirit a little bit greater so I can go on and on. "Always pray to have eyes to see the best in yourself, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith." What You'll Learn: The mission of the Small Changes Big Shifts podcast, how to take advantage of what you learn by tunning in, and a little bit of Dr. Robin's heart and vision for 2022. This Episode Includes: How Jamie Durner met Dr. Michelle Robin and became a member of the Small Changes Big Shifts Team. 2022 is Dr. Robin's 30th year in practice and instead of dialing down she is planning to continue bringing the community together by telling stories of wellbeing and inviting experts to the podcast. The Wellness Consortiums, which are a group of people in the Kansas City area, working around whole person health, are one of the key components of building community in the area. The goal of Small Changes Big Shifts is to be "seed planters" of wellness in the lives of those we come in contact with. Pursuing a healthier version of you allows you to be a "go-giver." We look a little into Dr. Robin's story of pursing her own health and the mentors who helped her along the way. Your vibe attracts your tribe. Choosing a word for the year helps you solidify your life's purpose and goals. Dr. Robin's word last year was "surrender." This year she thinks it might be "joy." Jamie's word for the year is "play." Robin's hope for the Small Changes Big Shifts podcast is for people to hear one idea, one thought, one connection, one word that will help them along on their journey. A few of the upcoming interviews and plans for the podcast for the year 2022. Takeaways From Today's Episode: Consider choosing a "WORD" for the upcoming year, or even just the first half of the year, that will resonate with your purpose and goals for 2022. Write with your feedback on how the show has impacted you and how it's helped you be a go-giver for others and what you're interested in hearing more about! Mentioned In The Episode: Advent Health You Matter Movement One Word Big Shifts Foundation Community America Credit Union William Davis Wheat Belly John O'Leary Live Inspired Kansas City Wellness Consortiums Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Join us as we welcome Barbara Unell and Tricia Rausch on this week's episode, where they share the story how ParentCare was founded in Kansas City. ParentCare was developed with guidance from Barbara Unell, a parent educator, author of Discipline with Love and Limits, and founder of the Raised with Love and Limits Foundation. Tricia is a Registered Nurse and Coordinator of Perinatal Bereavement at AdventHealth and has teamed up with Barbara to ensure this program gives parents everything they need to raise their little ones. ParentCare is the first free program of its kind in the United States, where parents and caregivers have a place to go with questions or concerns about yourself or your children and get free, trusted, personal answers from experts who will listen at AdventHealth. Memorable Quotes: "A family becomes healthier when parents take care of themselves." "The foundation is based on resources all parents and caregivers deserve to know about." "There's no cost to the program, but there is a cost to your well-being if you don't find something like ParentCare." "We are not trying to 'get rid of' stress in life – that's impossible. What we're trying to do is mitigate stress, so it doesn't become toxic in the body." "The number one factor for kids to stress less begins with relational health. They need personal relationships with parents and their caregivers who know how to be emotionally engaged with them." "Our culture seems to be returning to a simple concept – which is working together in order to tackle things." What You'll Learn: Why ParentCare's mission is about transferring the science into people's hands, how relational health can change an entire family's health, and why parents and caregivers have a difficult time accepting the word "support". This Episode Includes: The difference between the levels of stress our body experiences. Why parents feel overwhelmed raising kids these days, yet don't know where to turn for help. Tools for parents to build better relationships and communication patterns with their kids. Understanding every child and a family's need is different – and why it's less about a manual, but more about the communication and connection with each other. How parents even with adult children (who now have their own kids) are now able to build better relationships together through tools and resources found at ParentCare. Knowing what relational health really looks like in our life. Why this program's goal is to bring more peace, empowerment, and lower stress levels in parents' and caregivers' lives. Three Takeaways from Today's Episode: CARE is an acronym for Coaching, Advice, Resources, and Education. It's critical parents and caregivers learn self-care, but also learn how to navigate the system and resources available to them. This program helps build positive, nurturing, and safe relationships to reduce the toxic stress that leads to the Top 10 Health Issues in our culture today. Mentioned In This Episode: Discipline Without Shouting or Spanking book by Barbara Unell Raised with Love and Limits Foundation American Academy of Pediatrics policy on spanking and shouting published in 2018 AdventHealth in Kansas City ParentCare in Kansas City can be reached at (913) 632-4206 ParentCare's Website Big Shifts Foundation Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Born in Ghana, West Africa, Kute is an inspirational speaker and transformational leader. He has been inspiring audiences around the world from the first time he spoke in front of 3,000 people at the age of 8, later speaking in over 300 venues by the time he was 18. He helps organizations develop authentic leadership and achieve extraordinary performance. He is the author of the bestselling book You. Are. The. One. and The Magic of Surrender. Today, he is highly sought out by major companies, seeking to redefine their paradigm for success, and inspire greatness. He is a next generation world leader out to awaken millions to "love" and "living" their inspired destiny. Memorable Quotes: "I didn't think this was the book I was going to write, but I discovered this was the book seeking to be written." "I soon realized nothing I could do was going to cure my mother, and I had to go through this process of surrendering." "She wasn't attached to life, she wasn't attached to death, she was in a complete state of surrender." "Surrender is the passage to freedom." "Control is the master addiction, and it's also an illusion. If last year has taught us anything, it's taught us we are not as in control as we thought." "It's a shift from 'What do I want?' to 'What is it that life wants to express or create through me?'" "One of the reasons people are afraid of telling the truth is because they are afraid they will have to do something about it." "Take off the pressure of having to take action. Allow yourself to acknowledge the truth – no action needed. Just acknowledge it. Just be with it. You don't have to act. The willingness is all you need." "What is it costing you to lie to yourself?" "Pain is a messenger in our life. Pain is showing us where we're not aligned." What You'll Learn: How the word surrender came into Kute's life through his mother's story, why we have a difficult time accepting the word itself, and why this book changed Dr. Michelle Robin's life. This Episode Includes: How this book surprised Kute. His last memories with his terminally ill mother and what he learned from her about the word surrender. The misconceptions about the word in our culture today – what it is, and what's not. What becomes of our life when we surrender to things happening around us – and how that brings us more joy in the end. What the word courage means to Kute. What Kute says to people when they ask, "How do I start to surrender?" Why playing a game of confusion allows us to avoid the act of surrendering. What Kute tells people when they ask how they will know if they are living their destiny. Why we must remember what life is really about. Three Takeaways from Today's Episode: Ego isn't a thing – it's a process. The challenge is not our ego. It's the overidentification with ourselves. When we learn to stop identifying ego as a "thing" to get rid of and start accepting it's something we need to "shift" – we experience more freedom. As children, we are born free. Growing up, we fall into patterns – or become conditioned – to who we think we need to be so we can be loved. Is this really who you are or is this who you are conditioned? Spiritual practice isn't about yoga, meditating, or other things like it. Spiritual practice is telling yourself the truth. Mentioned In This Episode: The Magic of Surrender book by Kute Blackson Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway book by Susan Jeffers One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jon Gordon The Hoffman Process Big Shifts Foundation Scholarship Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

We've had a great month celebrating kindness thanks to this year's sponsor, City Wide Facility Solutions. Today, Dr. Michelle Robin welcomes Andrea Allison-Putman and Lori Bennett on the show to share their experience participating in the 31-Day Kindness Campaign. Join us to hear about the power of kindness and what they have learned kindness really looks likes in our everyday lives. Sometimes kindness can be as simple as listening with an open heart. Memorable Quotes: "You are not listening to what the answer is. You are listening for what's really going on in their lives." "Moments matter. Memories matter." "It's much easier to be kind when you feel good." "Everybody is fighting a battle. Either you are throwing gasoline on their situation, or you are throwing water on their situation." "Listen. Look people in the eye. Those things go a thousand miles. So many problems in our world could be solved if people step back and listen." "A simple smile goes a really long way." What You'll Learn: How the 31-Day Kindness Campaign makes it easier to learn about our community, what leaders should know about kindness and culture, and how self-care makes a difference in our ability to be kind to others. This Episode Includes: How the Kindness Campaign helps companies and organizations bring \ their culture together. The importance of pausing and being present in our life. What leaders should know about kindness and culture. What future generations should know about kindness. How we can be better in corporate America – and what validation looks like for teams. How listening to the non-verbal things people say is different than what people are really saying with their words. Why connecting with yourself matters. Three Takeaways from Today's Episode: Everything in our world roots back to how we give and receive kindness. We experience life better – the good and the tough – when we realize we are part of a bigger story going on behind the scenes. A simple smile goes a long way. Mentioned In This Episode: 31-Day Kindness Campaign 100 Rad Virtues by Lori Bennett Somewhere Over the Rainbow song by Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole Let It Go song by Idina Menzel Just Fine by Mary J. Blige Magic of Surrender book by Kute Blackson The Servant book by James C. Hunter Power vs. Force book by Dr. David R. Hawkins Maya Angelou quote Small Changes Big Shifts City Wide Facility Solutions Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Steve Gross is the Chief Playmaker at Life is Good Kids Foundation. The mission at Life is Good is to spread and harness the power of optimism to help kids heal from the impact of childhood trauma. The way that they do that is by partnering with the frontline men and women who dedicate their lives to building, healing, and creating life changing relationships with kids. Memorable Quotes: "We have problems. We have challenges. There is suffering. But we can never lose sight of the opportunities that exist amidst the obstacles if we want to make things better." "But just being alive, we are going to suffer. And when we're suffering, nothing soothes that suffering more than somebody seeing us, valuing us, and treating us with love and kindness." "Our emotions are going to get the best of us from time to time, but when we become aware of it, we can take action to try to mitigate the response and to try to make things better." What You'll Learn: Why kindness is so important to cultivate, how to use kindness to impact those around you, and how kindness affects children specifically. This Episode Includes: The origin and mission of the Life is Good Kids Foundation. Professionals who interact with children need to have a "kind human disposition" as much as their professional skill set. We will have suffering in this life but the power of optimism and kindness has the strength to get us through the suffering. Steve's father was the chief influencer in his life and continues to influence how he treats other people. Kind people are never unhappy people. Adverse childhood experiences, sometimes referred to as ACES, are overwhelming and frightening events that leave children feeling powerless. The most common are abuse, neglect, witness to violence, and severe household dysfunction. Almost every single human has some sort of childhood trauma. Childhood trauma can impact the way our brain develops. Kindness and love can soothe suffering. Getting to know others, seeing them, and truly valuing them means being curious and not judgemental. We can use the resources, privileges, and opportunities that we have to help others. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care. It's not about perfection. It's about connection. Practice changing your "I have to's" into "I get to's." Mentioned In The Episode: No Hard Feelings by the Avett Brothers Life is Good Kids Foundation 31-Day Kindness Campaign Small Changes Big Shifts CityWide Facilities Solutions Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Matt is a former special education teacher and spent the majority of his educational career as an elementary principal. Under his leadership two elementary schools went from Low Performing schools to Top Ten High Performing schools in the State of Missouri. Matt contributes this increase in achievement to the power of positive relationships. When organizations are focused on people – great things happen … and it's the little things that make a big difference. Matt currently serves as a Senior Consultant with Franklin Covey, a Room Tilter for Limitless Minds, and Lead Coach for John O'Leary LIVE INSPIRED. Matt is also the President of Miller Consulting, serving a wide variety of clients in the St. Louis area. He has been a Director for the West County Fire and EMS District for the past 18 years, serves on the YMCA Board, and is highly involved at St. Vincent DePaul Church in downtown St. Louis. Memorable Quotes: "I've never been more truly convicted to know that the most important thing we can do is to hook on to others and just say, hey, I'm here and be that person for them when they need us the most." "If we get the personal side right, there's an ROI on the professional side, but too many times, people are only focused on that professional side. We're proving that when you make sure you're taking care of self and you're putting family first in the schedule, there's an ROI on that professional side as well." "The main thing is to keep the main thing, the main thing." What You'll Learn: Strategies to create a balanced life that leads to positive relationships and sustainable kindness towards others. This Episode Includes: Matt Miller grew up in a small town and he attributes his propensity to pursue positive relationships to growing up in a close-knit community. Be the person that sees something in somebody that they don't see in themselves. If you want to change the world, you have to start with your own. Don't waste time on things you can't control. Stay in your circle of control, learn how to do simple better, and take the next right step. When you put yourself and your family first there is a return on investment in your professional life as well. Protect your psychological immunity by monitoring what you're putting inside your head, like the ideas, thoughts, and beliefs. Recognize that everyone has four letters written on their forehead: MMFI, or make me feel important. Learn how to create soul to soul connections with others. Being positive often starts with being less negative. Be intentional and give yourself grace. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: If there's somebody that's been hovering around your awareness, send them a text, pick up the phone, write them a nice note, snail mail or an email. Don't put it off because you never know what someone else is going through. Practice being more intentional as you go about your day by speaking with and connecting to others. Think of one good thing that's happened to you today and share with a significant other in your life. Mentioned In The Episode: Community America Credit Union City Wide Facilities Solutions Advent Health 31-Day Kindness Campaign - SIGN UP HERE Small Changes Big Shifts Wheel of Support John O'Leary LIVE INSPIRED Hysteria by Def Leppard Leader In Me Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Susan Mettes is the author of the brand-new book coming out November 2 called, "The Loneliness Epidemic – Why So Many of Us Feel Alone and How Leaders Can Respond." Susan has been studying people and their decisions for over a decade. She has experience in behavioral economics, writing, research, survey design and analysis, travel, journalism, public policy, and teaching. Susan is currently working as an Associate Editor at Christianity Today magazine. Her family alternates between living in East Africa and Washington D.C. Memorable Quotes: "Loneliness is really when we're disappointed with our relationship. So sometimes that takes the form of missing a specific person. Sometimes we wish we had friends, more friends, different friends, a specific friend. But it's always that gap between the relationships we want to have and the relationships we actually have." "In the United States, the older you are, the less likely you are to be lonely. It is a young person's problem in our country." "But sometimes people who are very glamorous are also insecure and also feel lonely. And I think it's really important to me to remind people that when somebody looks like they have a good life to you, don't assume that they're emotionally feeling great all the time." "You have to start. You have to be somebody who's kind. You have to be somebody who is willing to reach out. You have to be somebody who's asking somebody else if they want to do something with you." What You'll Learn: Research and facts on the loneliness epidemic in the United States and how to overcome loneliness with kindness. This Episode Includes: Loneliness occurs when we're disappointed with our relationship. Most people are in the middle of the loneliness spectrum where they feel bad about it and wish it were different, but don't find it excruciating. Others find it excruciating. Quality friendships help defend against loneliness. The loneliest population is young people who are going through transition periods in their lives. The loneliness epidemic started before the pandemic. Even if someone's life looks appealing from the outside, they may be struggling emotionally on the inside. Kindness is a tool that we can use, or a building block, to help people get out of their feelings of loneliness. A variety of relationships is important for people dealing with loneliness. Kindness is part of the foundation of belongingness. If you pour gasoline on a fire of loneliness, you get more loneliness. But if you put kindness on loneliness, you can actually transform it. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Practice kindness this week by starting a conversation with your neighbor. Consider the quality of your relationships and if you're substituting or supplementing your social life with social media. Choose one person to deepen your relationship with by cultivating mutual regard through acts of kindness. Mentioned In The Episode: Community America Credit Union City Wide Facilities Solutions Advent Health 31-Day Kindness Campaign - SIGN UP HERE Small Changes Big Shifts The Loneliness Epidemic, Why So Many of Us Feel Alone—and How Leaders Can Respond by Susan Mettes Till We Have Faces By C.S. Lewis Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Vicki O'Grady is a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, author, and accomplished workshop presenter. She has worked in the fields of mental health, addictions, eating disorders and personal growth since the late 70's. Vicki has traveled throughout the United States and Israel presenting personal growth workshops and seminars. She is the former President and founder of Personal Power and Prosperity, a personal growth organization. In 2014, Vicki started the You Matter Compassion Project, which involves giving out YOU MATTER cards. Upward of 2 million have been given out by people in the US, Israel and other countries. Memorable Quotes: "We're all seeking through outside experiences and through other people to validate our specialness, our goodness. We're trying to feel that unconditional love from a person that gives our life meaning. And one of the things that I found is that we all seek things outside of ourselves to try and give us that, whether it's an addiction or a person or a job or exercise." "People say you can't love other people until you love yourself. And I don't believe that's true. I know that I loved and gave love before I loved myself. But the difference was when I really did love myself, I trusted your love." "I don't want to be a person who causes harm in the world. I want to be a person who does kind acts. And I want to make this distinction because I think it's really important. I still think mean thoughts. I still shook my fist at somebody who pulled out in front of me yesterday. Twice. I still think these things, but I don't give myself permission to act on them. That's the difference today." What You'll Learn: The importance of telling other people that they matter and how to love others in spite of your own healing journey. This Episode Includes: How Vicki started the You Matter movement by writing signs to show people while in her car. Signs like "sorry" and "your tail lights are off" turned into a sign that said, "You Matter." Different reasons why people need to hear that they matter. The "feel-good" hormones like serotonin and dopamine are released when we create connections with others. Telling people they matter is a great way to build connections and spread kindness. The origins of the You Matter Marathon movement. A lot of people grow up not realizing how special they are. They look for meaning in other things that are not fulfilling. When people feel like they matter, they stop looking for validation from outside sources. We don't have to be perfect to be kind, we simply have to refuse to act on mean impulses and choose kindness instead. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Choose one person today and tell them, "Hey, you matter." Identify one act of kindness you can perform, either for yourself or someone else. Comfort, connection and compassion are vital to our growth and happiness, and all need to come from an outside source. Mentioned In The Episode: Citywide Facilities Solutions Kindness Campaign You Matter Marathon You Matter Compassion Project Getting the Love You Want by Harville Hendrix Baby Got Back by Sir Mix-a-lot Make You Feel My Love by Adele Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Linda Cohen is known as the Kindness Catalyst. She has been a nationally recognized kindness expert and professional speaker for over a decade. Linda works with a wide variety of businesses and associations on the ROI of Kindness. She is the author of two books. Her first book is called, "1,000 Mitzvahs: How Small Acts of Kindness Can Heal, Inspire and Change Your Life." Her new book is called, "The Economy of Kindness: How Kindness Transforms Your Bottom Line," and will be published in October 2021. She lives in Oregon with her husband of 28 years. They have two spirited young adult children and two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Ginger and Remy. She loves practicing yoga and meditation and will never pass up a good cup of Earl Grey tea! Memorable Quotes: "If you see what needs to be repaired and how to repair it, then you have found a piece of the world that God has left for you to complete. But if you only see what is wrong and what is ugly in the world, then it is you yourself that needs repair." - Rabbi Menachem Schneerson "When you're full you can give from your overflow and you're not continually depleting yourself." "Let's get back to putting our arms around each other, no matter who we are." What You'll Learn: How to create a culture of kindness in your organization and methods to give and receive kindness in your own life. This Episode Includes: Kindness is happening every day, everywhere. People were reaching out and supporting each other during the first part of the pandemic. Let's get back to that. Focusing on kindness has amazing benefits physically. When an organization can focus on kindness, they are helping their employees in more ways than one. When a company has a culture of kindness it affects the reputation of the company. Keeping and retaining good employees is another measure of a culture of kindness. Managers are the leaders who can help create that culture of kindness. Kindness is an inside and outside job. There are ways you can be kind to yourself, which then helps you be kind to others. If you want to see more kindness in the world, make sure your media diet is limited. The size of the kindness isn't that important, it could be small. There is a ripple effect when one person is kind to another. Giving and receiving kindness are both important. Be open to receiving kindness and allow others to be the giver. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Add a gratitude practice by taking a moment to think about what you are grateful for each day and add it to your morning or evening routine. There's a lot we can't control, but we can always control how we react. You don't have to have a certain job title to be a kindness catalyst. Mentioned In The Episode: Advent Health Community America Credit Union City Wide Maintenance Kindness Campaign Finding Your Tribe Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield Simple Abundance Pocketful of Miracles The Economy of Kindness: How Kindness Transforms Your Bottom Line Virtual Book Event Today Wednesday, October 20th at 3pm PST on Zoom Meeting ID: 704 838 6202 Passcode: MITZVAH Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

City Wide is the largest management company in the building maintenance industry, facilitating janitorial and more than 20 additional maintenance services for every client. They do more than just manage maintenance services for commercial facilities, they pride themselves on being a partner that helps you save time and solve problems! We spoke with three members of the City Wide Team: Jeff Oddo, the CEO and owner of City Wide Facility Solutions and City Wide Franchise. Lisa Greco, the director of People and Culture at City Wide Facility Solutions. Tom Bridgeforth, a present owner of a City Wide Facility Solutions franchise in central New Jersey. Memorable Quotes: "And for me, Michelle, the ripple is all about kindness, treating others like they matter. It's like treating people like someone else's precious child, someone that deserves respect, and is worthy of love and kindness." - Jeff Oddo "Whether that's walking the halls, whether that's bringing in new talent, whether that's enriching the lives of the employees that I work with each and every day, I would hope that each and all of those little small interactions and actions really add up at the end of the day to something meaningful for each and every employee that works at City Wide." - Lisa Greco "There's a kindness to yourself. Self-care. It's hard to give to others when your bucket is empty." - Dr. Michelle Robin "We've got to make time for our families and to spend more time together, because again, the pandemic made that point to us." - Tom Bridgeforth What You'll Learn: Personal stories on kindness and how to create the ripple effect from one small act of kindness. This Episode Includes: The legacy left by Jeff's father on City Wide employees from his one small act of kindness each day. How the people in Jeff's life have cultivated a desire in him to spread kindness. Strategies for creating small acts of kindness within one's own family. The importance of making time for yourself and your family. Three individual's different reasons and motivations behind kindness. Motivation and inspiration to start implementing small acts of kindness in your own community. Tom Bridgeforth's moving story about his daughter's brain tumor and how his community stepped in to care for his family. Real life examples of how we can all be kinder to each other. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Kindness creates a ripple effect so try and do one small act of kindness for someone else today. Practice thinking of other people as human beings, as if they were part of your family, rather than as a means to an end. Don't be scared to receive kindness from others. Mentioned In The Episode: Many of you know we have a serious mental health crisis happening this year because of the pandemic and creating a ripple of kindness has the power to change that. Small Changes Big Shifts and City Wide Facilities Solutions are launching a 31-day Kindness Campaign on October 14th, so we're inviting all of our listeners to go sign-up for free so we can all take part in this movement. Visit https://www.smallchangesbigshifts.com/kindness/ to join us! Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Edie Varley is a speaker, advisor, educator and the founder of The Varley Group which focuses on developing the skills of Emotional Intelligence to transform human potential into constructive contribution. From the boiler room to the board room, Edie helps people find the meaning in their work and the value in their contribution. Her work has benefited individuals and corporations – from privately held to Fortune 500 alike. Prior to founding The Varley Group in 2000, she served for 25 years in the business of chemical manufacturing where she started in sales and ultimately led the company as CEO and owner. During her tenure, Edie helped people find the meaning in their work and as CEO led the company to double-digit net operating profit. Memorable Quotes: "When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change." "Think about the way you're speaking because words create worlds." "You're hard wired with gifts that you think everybody has, but they're really gifts unique to you." "When you're aware you're halfway there." "Community is people and that's what we need. But you start with a community of one, loving and liking yourself so you can give yourself away to others." What You'll Learn: How to use self-awareness to find your life's purpose and build stronger relationships with those in your community. This Episode Includes: Emotional intelligence is being intelligent about YOUR emotions. Emotional intelligence is the one set of skills we can actually develop by creating new neural pathways. Resilience is a choice and acquired skill, and so is emotional intelligence. You can practice emotional intelligence because you've chosen a life of abundance. You have to love and like yourself first. You can be alone and not lonely when you love and like yourself. Increasing your self-awareness helps you identify your purpose in life and better understand your emotions. Even if you're feeling isolated, think about the gifts you bring that add value to the world, your own world, and those around you. One of the best ways to get out of loneliness is by helping someone else in their need. There are three universal questions we all ask at various times in our lives - identity, importance, and impact. Start by answering those three questions in an effort to understand your strengths, what you value most in life, and in what environment you best perform. Don't leave the house without a smile. There are so many ways you can start to establish your purpose in living. Don't get caught up in the next ten years, start today. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Find your purpose by starting small. For example, think about it today in this moment rather than for the next ten years. Consider introducing the individuals on your Wheel of Support to each other and strengthening your community by being a relational leader. Use phrases like "I want to" or "I get to" rather than "I have to" to change the way you view the world. Mentioned In The Episode: Wheel of Support Kindness Campaign Emotional Intelligence 2.0 What the World Needs Now Is Love by Jackie DeShannon Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Dr. Sheila Robinson is the owner and publisher of Diversity Women Media. She is a keynote speaker on leadership, entrepreneurship, and diversity and inclusion. She's written two books "Lead by Example: An Insider's Look at How to Successfully Lead in Corporate America and Entrepreneurship" and "Your Toolkit for Success: The Professional Woman's Guide for Advancing to the C-Suite." Dr. Robinson mentors women in business and trains companies on how to transform their culture around equity and belonging. She is no stranger to adversity and has overcome many career challenges. As a result of her journey, she found her passion to help other business leaders achieve leadership success in their careers. She's turned her personal achievements into a means of giving back to the community. Memorable Quotes: "What people say or do is a reflection of who they are and what I say and do is a reflection of who I am." "Freedom is when your mind, body, and spirit don't get in the way." "We are only as great as the least among us." "Always choose people that are better than you. Always choose people that challenge you and are smarter than you. Always be the student." - Sandra Bullock What You'll Learn: How to manage relationships with others in the workplace and community and how to build a more diverse tribe. This Episode Includes: Robinson teaches that mindset helps you overcome adversities. Building intentional relationships involves finding like-minded people who will lift you up and amplify you where you are. Setting boundaries around relationships that are not mutually beneficial is important for personal growth and health. Managing relationships is a part of life. Empathy for others helps you communicate and respond in any situation. Define what success means for you and make sure it doesn't include your job title. Everyone is diverse. Incorporating the principles of inclusiveness allows everyone to reach their full potential helps us all. An authentic way to build a more diverse tribe is to make sure you do it where you feel comfortable. There may be a time where you can not control loneliness, like the pandemic, and you must learn how to be okay being alone. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Invite one person to lunch this week and get to know them on a personal level. Consider joining an organization, club, or association that includes a diverse range of people. If you are lonely, find a trusted confidant or healthcare provider who can help you learn how to not feel alone when you are by yourself. Mentioned In The Episode: Wheel of Support Redefining your DIET: Transform how you look, feel, and perform (Sheila's new book) Different by Micah Tyler Your Wellness Connection Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Qiana Thomason has dedicated her career to the improvement of health and wellbeing across the region. As the CEO of Health Forward, she focuses on communities over-represented in health injustice and those living in marginalized conditions. While Qiana has an impressive career repertoire, it's her health journey that is the highlight of her story. After years of suffering from intense skin issues, self-isolation, and joint and gut pain, Qiana found the answer. It took stepping away from conventional medicine and discovering the root cause of her symptoms through a functional approach. The problem? An overgrowth of Candida albicans in her gut created an autoimmune response in the rest of her body. Through listening to her body, building relationships with her healthcare providers, and relentlessly pursuing wellbeing Qiana was able to find healing. Memorable Quotes: "There's the food you get through what you eat, and the food you put on your body, and the food you put in your mind and your soul." "I've always eaten healthy, I eat well. She goes, according to whom? That's when it clicked. My body is the source of truth." "Slow down, check on your people, and check-in with yourself." "God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved." Psalm 46:5 "Keep your head above the crowd." What You'll Learn: Why you should listen to your body to pursue optimal health & the importance of food and relationships to that journey. This Episode Includes: Well-being is critical to our ability to create connections with others. Well-being starts by listening to your own body first. A nutritarian is someone who focuses on nutrition and how your personal body experiences it. The difference between conventional food advice and a functional medicine perspective. Qiana's health crisis with skin, joint, and gut pain and how she overcame those symptoms by addressing the root cause. Poor health causes you to self-isolate and can lead to anxiety and depression. You can't be your best self and live out your purpose when you don't feel well. Listening to the people who are speaking into your life is critical to finding healing. It's important to find a practitioner with cultural proximity and form relationships with your medical providers. The inequality created by an insurance model that doesn't pay for functional medicine. How to be present and intentional in order to form connections that support mental health and overall wellbeing. Living Vitality and the upcoming LIV Conference Oct. 1st on Empowering Women. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Create margin in your life by taking time to slow down and practice self-care. For example, invest in intentional conversations that bring you joy. Consider what you can do to listen to yourself more and what it is that your body is telling you. Think of three ways you can pursue greater wellbeing and put your health first this week. Mentioned In The Episode: "People need People" by Maddie & Tae Big Shifts Foundation Small Changes Big Shifts "Out of the Rat Race: A Practical Guide to Taking Control of Your Time" By Susan Gregory Advent Health Living Vitality Liv Conference HealthForward Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Dr. Carolina is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. She owns an outpatient clinic located in Prairie Village, Kansas and is the co-founder of the Healthy Aging Revolution. Her goal is to promote the mental health of adult and elderly patients by providing psychotherapy, medication management, and diagnostic evaluation for different disorders. Dr. Carolina works with patients to assess and understand the biological, psychological, personal, and social aspects of their symptoms. She also takes into account their character traits, life experiences, and behavioral patterns, to suggest an appropriate treatment. She was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, and is fluent in both English and Spanish - and is raising two bilingual children! Dr. Carolina is happily settled in the Midwest and loves helping people pursue successful and healthy aging. Memorable Quotes: "I enjoy talking with very old people, they have come before us on a road by which we too may have to travel and I think we would do well to learn from them what it is like." - Socrates, Plato's The Republic. "We have to give our older population that place that they deserve and where they can be a very instrumental part of society." "When people have more time to be still, they see the world differently." "Live your life with seeds of curiosity." What You'll Learn: The importance of intergenerational relationships and how to pursue connection with those in the senior population. This Episode Includes: The underlying reason people seek psychiatric help is because they are starving for connection. Connection is just as, if not more important than, the medical side of care. People need to be heard and supported to achieve wellbeing. The older population has wisdom and life experiences that can be shared with others. The challenges of the past year and a half have highlighted just how important it is to feel connected and supported. This prevailing loneliness, that was significant before the pandemic and is magnified now, has caused cognitive problems in the older population. Ex. memory loss, loss of sense of purpose, etc. There is hope to regain what was lost through reconnecting with others. Ways to pursue connection with the older population. A brief discussion on how the Hispanic community has faced the pandemic. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Pursue intergenerational relationships by reaching out to the senior community and your senior family members! Send a plant, go for a walk outdoors, or plan a zoom call with one person who is part of the senior population. Consider getting a pet to help build a sense of purpose and belonging! Mentioned In The Episode: Aging well by George Vaillant. The Healthy Aging Brain by Louis Cozzolino. Women Rowing North by Mary Pipher. Aging with Grace by David Snowdon. Color Esperanza (The color of Hope) by Diego Torres Lost Connections by Johaan Hari Michael W. Smith - Friends Wellness on a Shoestring Wheel of Support Connect: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Carron Montgomery is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist and Level II trainer in EMDR. She utilizes a client centered approach that includes the importance of collaborating with each client's team of professional and primary caregivers. Carron is passionate about serving youth. She believes that building connections starts with being present. Nine years ago, Carron and two other women started a private practice with the hope to build connections in their community. Their practice, Aster Counseling, specializes in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and grief and loss. At the beginning of her career, she worked for two nonprofits; the first specializing in sexual abuse and the second working with low-income families and trauma. She currently treats ages four and up and often utilizes family therapy and parental support sessions. Carron is also a presenter for churches, schools and various organizations. She began presenting at the beginning of the pandemic, as she saw a huge need that was not being addressed. She trains local school counselors and recently began writing to provide additional resources to the community. Memorable Quotes: "Life doesn't count for much unless you're willing to do your small part to leave our children – all of our children – a better world. Even if it's difficult. Even if the work seems great. Even if we don't get very far in our lifetime." - Barack Obama "Be the calm." - Dr. Michelle Robin "Hearts that beat to the tune of kindness can change the rhythm of the world." - CJ Peterson "As children develop their brains, they mirror their parents' brains, in other words the parents' growth and development, or lack of those, impacts the child's brain. As parent's become more aware and emotionally healthy their children reap the rewards and move towards health as well, or they don't." - Daniel J. Siegel What You'll Learn: The most important way a parent can support and build connections with their child. This Episode Includes: The mental health crisis and loneliness among our youth. Kids are lonely even when they are with other people because the emotional current of the world is being felt. Co-regulators and the need to start teaching parents and adults how to calm themselves in order to be a presence for an upset child. To become a co-regulator you need to "catch the calm." Tone and rhythm are more important than the words themselves. Catch the calm. Bring the calm. Be the calm. Patients need to have a connection with their therapist and if they don't it's okay to find another one. People can develop healthier connections by learning how the brain works. Connections allow kids to develop "post traumatic wisdom," which is their ability to grow or to be stunted. Our thoughts equal who we are and our thoughts equal the data we collect. When we are alone and isolated the only data we are collecting is coming from social media and media outlets. The misconception society tells about independence and success is that you can do it all alone, that you don't need connections. Kids feel like they are not supposed to ask for help. It's important for adults to help them see that they CAN ask for help. Happiness is a feeling that can come and go, it's not a destination. Use the pandemic to challenge the way you go through life - look for ways to build more connections with others. In order to heal yourself, you have to heal your heart. Three Takeaways From Today's Episode: Use the pandemic to challenge yourself to think about the pace you're going. Ask yourself if it matches your core values or is it because it's what the world is telling you? Use the pandemic to develop post-traumatic wisdom. Teachers need to make themselves open and approachable, making a connection possible, and normalizing the idea of asking for help. Parents need to put their phone in another room for ten minutes and give their children undivided attention to show them what it's like to be in a real relationship and help them figure out who they are, not who you want them to be. Mentioned In The Episode: The Wheel of Support 21 Days to Build Your Tribe Program The Hoffman Process Advent Health Big Shifts Foundation Community America Credit Union Kindness Campaign What Happened To You? By Bruce Perry, M.D, Ph.D and Oprah Winfrey The Boy, the mole, the fox and the Horse by Charlie a Mackesy Superpowered: Transform Anxiety into Courage, Confidence, and Resilience by Renee Jain and Dr. Shefali Tasbery. "Badass Woman" song by Meghan Traino "I Look to You" song by Whitney Houston Connect: https://www.astercounseling.org/ LinkedIn Facebook Upcoming book: "The Invisible Riptide: A Kid's Journey to Navigating the Emotional Current of the World," by Carron Montgomery, MSCP, LPC, RPT and illustrated by David Gentile. COMING SOON!

This week is the official launch of our new mini-series on loneliness and finding your tribe. Dr. Michelle Robin talks to Audrey Robin, her niece and newest member of the Small Changes Big Shifts team, to introduce the series. Audrey Robin is a holistic health copywriter who writes online content for functional medicine practitioners and health coaches. In this episode, Audrey turns the conversation around and interviews Dr. Robin about finding her tribe and building connections in a society fraught with loneliness. Memorable Quotes: "Hug yourself first, hug your faith, hug your family, hug your friends, hug your flag, hug your failures, hug your fears, hug your future, hug your firsts, hug your finals." – Dr. Michelle Robin "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 "Don't give up and you're going to have to put yourself out there. Don't expect to sit at home checked out with Netflix and build your tribe." – Dr. Michelle Robin What You'll Learn: How to enrich your life using our Wheel of Support Worksheet and build more authentic relationships. This Episode Includes: The mental health crisis affecting young people today. The rising anxiety and depression numbers, which are correlated to our lack of connection with each other – and it started long before the pandemic. How the Wheel of Support can help you navigate building your tribe and resilience. The inspiration behind this new series. Why caring for your Psychospiritual Quadrant will improve your mental health. Why self-care is self-love. Michelle's passion to help our community and world overcome loneliness and depression – and tools and resources she suggests. The importance of realizing we were created for connection - no one goes alone. How you must see value in yourself before you can create your tribe, realize the gifts you have to offer the world, and invest in those lifetime relationships. Michelle looks back at her life and reflects how you can often see the people who have supported you all along. Homework for listeners: Complete the Wheel of Support Worksheet, then write a note to everyone on your wheel to let them know they matter to you. Three Takeaways from Today's Episode: Millennials and Gen Z are most struggling with a mental health crisis exacerbated by lost connection and lack of self-love. Authentic relationships turn into lifetime relationships. Four steps to building lifetime relationships: Show up with a servant's heart, be a go-giver, meet people one-on-one, and celebrate each other. Mentioned in the Episode: Your Wellness Connection Download the Wheel of Support Worksheet Your download will begin automatically after clicking the link. 40 Days of Gratitude Series on Facebook Live The E Factor: Engage, Energize, Enrich book by Dr. Michelle Robin The Hoffman Process Strengthsfinder, Enneagram, Kolbe Test, Predictive Index Just Be Held song by Casting Crown

Jen Ciszewski is a functional medicine practitioner, lactation consultant, nature lovin', birth doula, yoga teacher & family nurse practitioner student. She is also an entrepreneur who has set out to change the way we live with chronic symptoms and overall poor quality of life due to the foods, thoughts, and habits we consume daily. Her very own struggle with autoimmune disease led her to rock bottom physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. For a period of months in her mid-twenties she was couch-ridden and unable to continue in her career as a nurse. It was at this low that she learned the information and habits that would change her life and create the launch pad for her current success. A few short years later and she is now healing, inspiring, and leading others to improve their health - to then elevate their entire life!!! She is the owner of Inspire Health by Jen LLC, and author of the Midday Pigeon blog. Join Dr. Michelle and Jen in Part 2 as they talk about: Her step by step process with helping people through functional medicine. Why symptoms are your best biomarkers and why you can trust what they're telling you when you begin your healing process. Common health symptoms that people have that they don't know they should be dialing into. Struggles she faced when she began her wellness journey and why being lonely was the biggest obstacle. Her non negotiables for building a healthy lifestyle and why nutrition is No. 1. Why juicing has been a huge part of her Chemical Quadrant focus. What energy medicine is and how it plays into our healing journeys. Daily GPA emotional practices she does to help raise her spirituality with (G)ratitude, (P)rayer, and (A)ffirmations. Why sometimes you have to let go of what is not working even if you don't know what the next step is yet. The power of trusting that you are right where you need to be on your wellness journey. How she found her wellness tribe and why it has been a huge part of her healing process. Why she recommends tuning into your body's natural intuition and how you can do exactly that. Mentioned In This Episode Jen Ciszewski KC Women's Ministry Inspire Health by Jen LLC Midday Pigeon blog Lost Connections: Why You're Depressed and How to Find Hope by Johann Hari Zen Donkey Farms I Heard God Laugh: A Practical Guide to Life's Essential Daily Habit by Matthew Kelly Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect via: Facebook Instagram

Jen Ciszewski is a functional medicine practitioner, lactation consultant, nature lovin', birth doula, yoga teacher & family nurse practitioner student. She is also an entrepreneur who has set out to change the way we live with chronic symptoms and overall poor quality of life due to the foods, thoughts, and habits we consume daily. Her very own struggle with autoimmune disease led her to rock bottom physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. For a period of months in her mid-twenties she was couch-ridden and unable to continue in her career as a nurse. It was at this low that she learned the information and habits that would change her life and create the launch pad for her current success. A few short years later and she is now healing, inspiring, and leading others to improve their health - to then elevate their entire life!!! She is owner of Inspire Health by Jen LLC and author of the Midday Pigeon blog. Join Dr. Michelle and Jen in Part 1 as they talk about: Jen's career and how she shifted it when she discovered she had an autoimmune disease with thyroid complications. How her autoimmune disease took over and impacted her mental wellbeing. Why many people with autoimmune disease are told that their body is broken but Jen doesn't believe this is the case. The gradual downhill in her health until it all of a sudden became worse in a short period of time. Common conditions and root causes of autoimmune disease. The options her doctor told her the first time she met with someone and why it didn't sit well with her. How her autoimmune disease sparked her interest in functional medicine to help people treat the root cause of chronic conditions. Why she believes her experience with epstein barr virus led to worse health conditions over the years. What she looks out for when treating people: pathogens, toxins, and nutrient deficiencies. Why we are all here on Earth for a purpose and how you can uncover your gifts and passion to be aligned with your soul. What intuition means and how you can begin to dial into it more each day. Why sometimes our purpose isn't aligned with our paycheck but our income allows us to live it out. Mentioned In This Episode Jen Ciszewski KC Women's Ministry Inspire Health by Jen LLC Midday Pigeon blog Barbara De Angelis Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect via: Facebook Instagram

Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers is a graduate of the Disparities Leadership Program at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. She is also an alumna of the University of Pittsburgh where she received a Doctorate in epidemiology with a focus on understanding barriers associated with chronic disease and disability prevention. She is an expert in custom holistic health services with one-of-a-kind expertise in chronic diseases, disability prevention, and healthy aging. Between her extensive education and own experience struggling to overcome chronic health issues of 30 years, she is passionate about customized holistic healthcare that addresses root causes of pain, not just the symptoms. Join Dr. Michelle and Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers in Part 2 as they talk about: Elizabeth Rodgers| Healthy Transformation with the Heart Her own health struggles when she was 18 years old and what lifestyle changes she wished she had made growing up. How we can truly tune in and listen to what our body and mind need to heal chronic issues. The different energetic vibrations we experience in our emotions, thoughts, and feelings every day. Why there's so much more to shifting our lives for greater health than just focusing on behavior change. The fact that many weight loss studies focused on behavior change find that maintenance was the core issue people faced. Why she teaches her clients to focus on living a life where their health goals have already been met. How to reprogram our subconscious minds for greater mindset shifts. What steps you can take now to improve your health today. Why you don't have to do everything people like Dr. Michelle or Dr. Elizabeth share but just take what you need and leave the rest. The fact that not all physical illnesses actually have physical root causes; they could be emotional or mental as well. Elizabeth's non-negotiables for staying healthy. Why she recommends drinking lemon water with a metal straw first thing in the morning if it is right for your body. Mentioned In This Episode Episode 333 – Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers Elizabeth Rodgers Healthy Transformation with the Heart Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers via: Instagram Women's Wellness Collective on Facebook

Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers is a graduate of the Disparities Leadership Program at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. She is also an alumna of the University of Pittsburgh where she received a Doctorate in epidemiology with a focus on understanding barriers associated with chronic disease and disability prevention. She is an expert in custom holistic health services with one-of-a-kind expertise in chronic diseases, disability prevention, and healthy aging. Between her extensive education and own experience struggling to overcome chronic health issues of 30 years, she is passionate about customized holistic healthcare that addresses root causes of pain, not just the symptoms. Join Dr. Michelle and Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers in Part 1 as they talk about: Elizabeth Rodgers| Healthy Transformation with the Heart What an epidemiologist is and her role in helping people during their wellness journeys. How she helps people get to the root cause of their health problems. What many epidemiologists focus on including community health, cancer, virology, longevity, and chronic illness. Her tragic experience going into septic shock from internal bleeding during a routine surgery, surviving death, and shifting her focus on life. Michelle's mission to help adolescents, especially young adults get on a path to whole person health for the rest of their lives. Why Elizabeth believes she developed kidney stones at the young age of 23 years old and as a woman due to her lifestyle habits as a child into adulthood. The impact that chronic dehydration and a diet high in protein can have in contributing to the formation of kidney stones. How her over the top work ethic and lack of a healthy social support group impacted her wellbeing as an undergrad and graduate student. Her PTSD after her kidney stone surgery and how it took her many years to fully heal that trauma emotionally and mentally. Common poor health trends she is seeing and why it isn't just physical or emotional symptoms but a combination. The negative impact of mainstream medicine and how it has stripped people of hope with all of the trauma they have experienced from it. Mentioned In This Episode Elizabeth Rodgers Healthy Transformation with the Heart Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers via: Instagram Women's Wellness Collective on Facebook

PR and Social Media Director at Hallmark Cards, JiaoJiao Shen, joins Dr. Michelle Robin to discuss freedom and the power of connection. Join Dr. Michelle and JiaoJiao as they talk about: What it is like for JiaoJiao being a Chinese immigrant in the USA with two biracial children. Her thoughts on freedom especially with both children having been born on July 4, three years apart. Unpacking the discrimination and increase in hate we have seen in our communities over the last couple of years. Thoughts on Asian food and why we see people either love it or hate and discriminate against it. What people can do better to help support all races in their community. The continuous journey we're all on towards anti-racism and how we can keep learning and improving. What difference we can make in the media and Hollywood by demanding more diverse content. Asian role models JiaoJiao had growing up and why she's excited to see more representation in her children's TV shows and movies. Mentioned In This Episode Both My Kids Were Born on the Fourth of July, but Are They Really Free? Stop AAPI Hate Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning by Cathy Park Hong Asian Americans | PBS Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect with JiaoJiao Shen via: LinkedIn Twitter

Sentenced to sixty-five years in a Texas prison, Damon West once had it all. Damon West, M.S. Criminal Justice, is a college professor, nationally known keynote speaker and best-selling author (with best-selling author and motivational speaker Jon Gordon) of The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change. His first book and autobiography, The Change Agent: How a Former College QB Sentenced to Life in Prison Transformed His World, was published just three years after his release from a Texas maximum-security prison. Join Dr. Michelle and Damon as they talk about: Damon's background story and his health journey of letting go of addiction for greater wellbeing. Why the world is a pot of boiling water and you have three choices: be a carrot, be an egg, or be a coffee bean and why you should choose to be a coffee bean. His childhood and the impact of being sexually abused by his babysitter. Takeaways Damon took away from his experience with drugs and going to prison for it. Damon and his wife, Kendell's foundation, Be A Coffee Bean. The impact of COVID-19 on Damon's career as a speaker and how he had to work through the struggles of events being canceled. Why Damon began to give free presentations during the pandemic to give back to others. The differences between racism and prejudice plus what change we can make happen. Why Damon and his wife, Kendall, launched the program, Mister Coffee Bean, to help people get back on their feet after prison and teach in schools. How their program, Coffee Bean CARES, is financially helping incarcerated parents provide for their children's extracurricular activities. Mentioned In This Episode 216 – Damon West The Coffee Bean by Damon West and Jon Gordon 185 – Jon Gordon Be A Coffee Bean Foundation Mister Coffee Bean Dabo's All In Team Foundation Call Me Mister Episode 329 - Alana Muller and Johnny Waller Coffee Bean CARES Wellness On A Shoestring by Dr. Michelle Robin SCBS Sleep Campaign Your Wellness Connection SCBS 40 Days of Gratitude SCBS 31-Day Kindness Campaign Big Shifts Foundation CommunityAmerica Credit Union AdventHealth Connect with Damon via: Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube