The Alignment Show

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going into this conversation with Matthew Check, but I knew it would be interesting.What I didn’t expect was just how layered it would be.Matthew is a musician-turned-author whose memoir, What Would Philip Roth Do?, weaves together love, identity, creativity, and a fair amount of humor. But what stayed with me after our conversation wasn’t just the story itself. It was the process behind it—the discipline, the vulnerability, and the willingness to tell the truth even when it would be easier not to.We talked about what it means to write honestly, how creativity actually works (hint: it’s not always inspiration), and why memoir is less about recording events and more about making sense of them.There’s also something deeper running through all of this. Matthew’s story—whether he’s talking about bluegrass music, relationships, or imagined conversations with Philip Roth—keeps circling back to identity. Who am I? How did I get here? And what do I do with that truth once I see it clearly?If you’ve ever wrestled with your own story, or wondered whether it’s worth telling, I think you’ll find something here.Resources Mentioned* Matthew Check’s website* What Would Philip Roth Do? * Matthew Check on Spotify and Apple Music (linked from his website)* Bright Eyes: Surviving Our Monsters and Learning to Live Without Them by Bridey Thelen Heidel (mentioned in conversation)* Philip Roth’s booksThe Big TakeawayTelling your story honestly is less about getting every detail right and more about having the courage to say, “This is how I see my life,” and standing behind it.Bulleted Summary* Memoir is crafted, not just remembered. It requires shaping events into meaning* Creativity isn’t only inspiration; it’s also discipline, repetition, and showing up* Humor can open the door to truth, especially in painful or vulnerable moments* A good editor goes beyond fixing your writing to helping you discover what you’re really saying* Identity often reveals itself through unexpected connections (like bluegrass and Jewish heritage)* Writing a memoir forces a deeper question: “Am I willing to be this honest in public?”Practical Tips* Don’t wait for inspiration. Build a habit of showing up consistently* Find an editor or collaborator who understands your voice, not just your grammar* Write freely first; decide later what stays and what goes* Use humor where it naturally arises. It can make difficult truths more accessible* Engage with other writers or creators. You’re more likely to find the right collaborators that way* If you’re telling your own story, focus on meaning, not just chronologyQuote to Ponder“I really do want to make a statement about how I see my life and what happened.”When Your Life Becomes the MaterialIn this episode of The Alignment Show, I sat down with Matthew Check to talk about his memoir, What Would Philip Roth Do? But the conversation quickly moved beyond the book itself.At its core, this is a conversation about what it means to take your own life seriously enough to shape it into a story.Matthew didn’t set out to write a book. He started with a writing class, working through exercises, trying to figure out what he had to say. Over time, something began to emerge: a pattern connecting his love of music, his relationships, and his search for identity.The book took shape slowly, over years, through revision, reflection, and a lot of back-and-forth with his editor.The Myth of the Solo WriterOne of the more refreshing parts of this conversation was Matthew’s honesty about the writing process.There’s a common assumption that writers sit alone, produce something brilliant, and send it off into the world. That wasn’t his experience at all.His editor played a central role—not just refining the writing, but helping him discover what the story actually was.Sometimes that meant pushing him to go deeper. Sometimes it meant pulling him back. Either way, it was a collaborative process.It’s a good reminder that writing, even when it’s deeply personal, is rarely a solo act.Creativity: Inspiration vs. DisciplineMatthew’s background as a musician added another layer to the conversation.Songwriting, for him, often comes in bursts of inspiration. A melody appears. Lyrics follow. The song almost writes itself.Writing a book, on the other hand, requires something different.It’s less about waiting for the moment and more about creating the conditions for progress—sitting down, doing the work, and continuing even when it feels like a chore.There’s a parallel here to almost any meaningful work. The initial spark matters. But what carries it forward is discipline.Humor as a Path to TruthThe humor of life is one of the defining features of Matthew’s memoir. Even in moments that are awkward, painful, or deeply personal, there’s often a thread of self-deprecation or wit running through the story.Humor, in this case, becomes a way of telling the truth without becoming overwhelmed by it. It creates space for b

Some conversations stay with you long after the recording ends. This was one of them.In this episode of The Alignment Show, I talk with Mia Godfrey—life coach, speaker, and author of Buried, Not Broken: A Memoir of Survival, Sisterhood, and Starting Over. Mia grew up in Romania during the communist regime, immigrated to the United States, and later walked through the devastating loss of her sister.What began as a promise between two sisters eventually became a memoir about resilience, healing, and the courage to reclaim your voice.We talk about grief, identity, and the surprising ways writing can help us process life’s hardest moments. Mia shares how her sister’s encouragement led her to write their story, even though she initially resisted the idea. Along the way, we explore how painful experiences can sometimes become the soil where new growth begins.One of the ideas that struck me most was something Mia’s mother used to say:“They tried to bury us, but they didn’t know we were seeds.”That image captures the spirit of this conversation perfectly.If you’ve ever wondered whether your hardest chapters might someday become part of a meaningful story, I think you’ll find Mia’s journey worth hearing.Resources Mentioned* Buried, Not Broken: A Memoir of Survival, Sisterhood, and Starting Over by Mia Godfrey* Creating While Caring by Donn King* Toastmasters InternationalThe Big TakeawaySometimes the experiences that feel like they are burying us are actually planting the roots that allow us to grow stronger, clearer, and more aligned with who we really are.Bulleted Summary* Mia grew up in Romania during the communist regime, where scarcity and fear shaped daily life.* Her sister Mona encouraged her to write their story shortly before Mona’s death from cancer in 2023.* Writing the memoir became part of Mia’s healing process after deep grief and loss.* The book’s structure reflects how memory actually works—more like a patchwork quilt than a straight timeline.* Mia learned to embrace her identity, accent, and story rather than trying to hide them to fit in.* Her message today focuses on helping people—especially those over forty—rediscover purpose and step into their next chapter.Practical Tips* Write before you’re ready. Journaling can uncover insights and healing you didn’t expect.* Share your story gradually. Even showing one page to a trusted person can be a powerful step forward.* Reframe adversity. Instead of asking “Why did this happen?” consider “What can grow from this?”* Embrace your identity. The things you once tried to hide may become the very things that help others.* Look for the next chapter. Life transitions after forty can be a time of clarity rather than crisis.Quote to Ponder“They tried to bury us, but they didn’t know we were seeds.”If you prefer reading over listening, here is an article version of our conversation.When the Hardest Chapters Become the Soil for GrowthIn this episode of The Alignment Show, I talk with Mia Godfrey about resilience, identity, and what it means to rebuild life after profound loss.Mia is a life coach, speaker, and the author of Buried, Not Broken. Her story begins in Romania during the communist era, where poverty, fear, and scarcity shaped everyday life. Yet even in those conditions, she remembers her childhood home as a place filled with love, laughter, and resilience.Her mother had a remarkable way of reframing hardship. Even when food was scarce and families stood in line for hours for a small ration of bread, she reminded her children that they were still rich in what mattered most: family, faith, and community.That mindset would become one of the foundations of Mia’s life.A Promise Between SistersYears later, Mia’s sister Mona was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.During Mona’s illness, the two sisters began writing down stories from their childhood—memories they had once promised to keep secret. Mona believed their story might help others facing hardship.After Mona passed away in 2023, Mia initially put the journals away and intended never to open them again.Grief, however, has its own way of reshaping our direction.Encouraged by a therapist and her husband, Mia eventually returned to the pages she had written. What began as private journaling slowly became something larger: a memoir.Writing as a Path to HealingOne of the most powerful parts of Mia’s story is how writing changed her relationship with grief.She described how years of trauma had affected her sleep and emotional health. Yet after completing the book, something shifted. The process of telling the truth—of finally releasing long-held secrets—allowed her to let go of burdens she had carried since childhood.The book itself reflects that emotional journey.Rather than a traditional chronological memoir, Mia structured it as what she calls a “patchwork quilt of memories.” The narrative moves between different moments in her life, much the way memories actually surface.It’s messy. It’s nonlinear. And that’s e

Editor’s note: We’re grateful for all our listeners. We’ve been offering some added “perks” for paid subscribers, and we have realized that most if not all of those subscribers pay because they want to support our work, not because they get exclusive access to content. So we are experimenting with making all of our content here available to all subscribers. Thank you, thank you, thank you, and if you find value in what we do, please share us with others and upgrade your subscription as you see fit with our deepest gratitude. We are making this change as we complete our tech move completely into our space here on King’s Chronicles.This week I recorded a shorter solo episode — not filler, not a placeholder — but something I believe we genuinely need to talk about.In the cultural, social, and political climate we’re living in right now, assumptions are doing real damage. We react quickly. We interpret confidently. And we rarely pause long enough to ask whether what we think we heard is actually what was said.In this episode, I share a simple puzzle that got me — and yes, even fooled me — along with a personal story from a recent interview that illustrates just how powerful (and costly) our hidden assumptions can be.It’s not abstract. It’s not academic. It’s practical.If you’ve ever:* Reacted strongly and later realized you misheard* Assumed someone’s intention… and been wrong* Held back your voice because of what you thought someone meantThen this one’s for you.Listen in. I think it may shift the way you experience your next conversation.Resources Mentioned* Butterfly Copywriting (Val Roskens Tews): https://donnking.com/butterfly* My books (including Creating While Caring): https://donnking.com/books* The puzzle image referenced in the episode (if you can’t see it where you’re listening to this, go to https://donnking.com/104)BONUS CONTENT1. The Big TakeawayThe most dangerous assumptions are the ones that feel obvious — because once something feels obvious, we stop questioning it.Awareness creates choice. And choice is where alignment begins.2. Bulleted Summary* Our brains are prediction machines. We complete stories automatically.* Visual and emotional framing guide interpretation more than we realize.* Even expertise in communication does not prevent assumptions — it may simply make us faster at making them.* Most conflicts are not about what was said, but about what was inferred.* The same words, interpreted differently, can create entirely different lived experiences.* Slowing down to clarify intent is not weakness — it is precision.3. Practical Tips* When you feel a strong reaction, ask: What part of this is observable fact, and what part is my interpretation?* Replace “I know what you meant” with “Help me understand what you meant.”* Before withdrawing or escalating, pause and ask: Is this inferred or confirmed?* Notice emotional certainty. The stronger the certainty, the more valuable the pause.* In meetings or difficult conversations, clarify intent explicitly rather than assuming tone.4. Quote to Ponder“The most dangerous assumptions are the ones that feel obvious.”or“The goal isn’t perfection. It’s awareness. And once you have awareness, you have choice.”5. Article Version (Blog-Style Episode Write-Up)The Assumption You Didn’t Know You MadeIn this solo episode of The Alignment Show, I explore something deceptively simple but profoundly consequential: the assumptions we don’t realize we’re making.In a world moving at high speed — culturally, socially, politically — we’re reacting quickly and interpreting confidently. But how often do we stop to ask whether what we believe we heard is actually what was said?A Puzzle That Revealed More Than I ExpectedI came across a graphic showing two people trapped on a rope bridge between two tigers, with sharks circling below. The caption read:“Every problem has a solution — how can both escape safely?”Most of us instantly assume “both” refers to the two humans.So did I.So did Lizzie — my name for ChatGPT.And that’s what made it fascinating.The question never specified “both humans.” It simply said “both.” One commenter pointed out that after the tigers eat the humans, the two tigers both escape safely.Dark? Yes.Accurate? Also yes.The lesson wasn’t about survival tactics. It was about how quickly our minds fill in missing meaning.Why Even Experts Get CaughtI’ve spent a lifetime teaching communication — framing, ambiguity, inference. And I still made the assumption.Knowing how assumptions work doesn’t prevent them.Our brains are prediction machines. We don’t just receive information. We complete it. That’s how we function efficiently.The problem arises when we mistake completion for certainty.A Real-Life ExampleAfter recording an interview recently, my guest and I were chatting casually. She has a European accent and has lived in the U.S. since 2008.I told her I loved her accent.She told me that for years, when people said that, she assumed they were mocking her.Same

We’ve all had that moment.You walk away from a conversation thinking, How did that blow up so fast? Or worse, That’s not what I meant at all.In this episode of The Alignment Show, I sit down with Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva (known simply as Dr. T) to talk about what really happens between intention and perception.We recorded this conversation some months ago, and while a few references are time-stamped, the insights are anything but. What she shares here is timeless and deeply practical.Dr. T introduces what she calls the IAP Model — Intention, Action, Perception — a framework that helps explain why so many conflicts aren’t actually about the issue at hand. They’re about the gap between what we intend, what we do, and how it is received.If you’ve ever said, “You should have known what I meant,” this conversation may change how you approach your next difficult conversation.We explore:* Why silence rarely means what we assume it means* How “you always” and “you never” quietly escalate conflict* Why actions only “speak louder than words” when intentions are clear* How to interrupt destructive patterns before they spiralDr. T brings both clinical expertise and lived experience. She’s candid about how many of these insights were born inside her own marriage. That honesty makes the conversation feel real rather than theoretical.This one isn’t abstract. It’s actionable.About Dr. TDr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva is a psychotherapist, author, and founder of Advocate2Create. In her book Why Are We Fighting?, she introduces the IAP Model—Intention, Action, Perception—which she describes as a kind of “Google Translate” for human communication.With more than 12 years of experience, she specializes in grief, trauma, and couples therapy. She also conducts clinical evaluations for immigration cases, combining her mental health expertise with her background in immigration law.Resources Mentioned* Why Are We Fighting? by Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva* Advocate2Create, a website dedicated to Dr. T’s insights.* Rule of Three Interpretations training* The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman* Relationship Revival podcast* Donn’s books* Work with Donn to publish your bookYou can find shownotes for this episode and links to all our channels at https://DonnKing.com/103.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

I’ve learned over the years that the most meaningful conversations often start with shared experience rather than shared credentials. This one did.In this episode of The Alignment Show, I sit down with Steve Friedman, an author, speaker, and longtime corporate leader who spent decades navigating professional life as an introvert before reinventing his work around writing, speaking, and supporting families affected by Down syndrome.Steve and I talk about masking, energy management, leadership, caregiving, and what it means to stretch your comfort zone without losing yourself in the process. We explore why introversion is so often misunderstood, how corporate culture rewards the loudest voices, and what changes when you finally stop pretending to be someone you’re not.This conversation isn’t about quick fixes or personal branding. It’s about authenticity, sustainability, and learning to live and work in ways that actually fit who you are.If you’ve ever felt worn out by performing a version of yourself that doesn’t quite feel true, I think you’ll find something here worth sitting with.What part of this conversation felt uncomfortably familiar to you? Share in the comments!Remember that you can find shownotes for this episode and links to all our channels at https://DonnKing.com/102.Resources mentioned in this episode include:* Beyond Introversion, Steve Friedman’s site focused on introversion in professional and corporate settings, including articles, workshops, and books. (Site may have been discontinued, but I’m leaving the link here in case it comes back up. https://beyondintroversion.com.)* Beyond Down Syndrome, Steve Friedman’s resource hub for families and individuals affected by Down syndrome, covering different life stages, education, independence, and advocacy. https://beyonddownsyndrome.net* Steve’s LinkedIn, the primary social platform for connecting with Steve professionally.* Steve Friedman’s Books on Amazon, the place to find his published books on introversion and Down syndrome.* The Corporate Introvert, Steve’s book focused on navigating meetings, leadership, and networking as an introvert in corporate environments.* In Search of Courage: An Introvert’s Story, Steve’s first book, centered on personal reflection, career, and introversion.* Creating While Caring by Donn King.* All of Donn’s books.* Butterfly Copywriting, one of our sponsors.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

This is the first episode of The Alignment Show for 2026, and it’s a solo one.I wanted to start the year by speaking honestly about why consistency broke down over the past year, what that cost, and what it’s taken to begin rebuilding. This isn’t an episode about productivity hacks or polished plans. It’s about grief, caregiving, creative identity, and what it means to keep choosing alignment when control turns out to be mostly an illusion.In this episode, I talk about why I shifted the show to an audio-first rhythm, how I’m rethinking what support really means on Substack, and why writing has to remain central for me, even when everything else slows down. If you’ve ever had a season where “just showing up” felt like the only honest win, this conversation is for you.We really are all about community here. Thanks for showing up.Because of the nature of this episode, we didn’t mention sponsors in the audio. But if you would like to support the show, check out these resources.* My books can all be found at DonnKing.com/Books. You might want to bookmark that, since I have several in process. The latest published one is Creating While Caring, and soon there will be a companion book of devotionals for caregivers. Yet another book in that grouping is also in process, a reflective nonfiction book about formation, constraint, and the limits of control.* I’m considering helping to start an online support group specifically for creative people who find themselves now in a caregiving role. Your response will help me decide whether to pursue that or not. Go to DonnKing.com/CreatingCareCommunity.* We would really appreciate it if you would share this episode and this publication with your friends. Find everything about The Alignment Show and the regular supportive content we provide at King’s Chronicles on Substack.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Rachael Herron returns to The Alignment Show, and as always, she brings a mix of honesty, wisdom, and grounded joy to the conversation. We talk about her new novel The Seven Miracles of Beatrix Holland and how writing it pulled her deeper into a long-running personal theme—letting go of control. We explore what happens when a story arrives before the plan does, why “mission” matters more than “goals,” and how creative work shifts when you stop writing to please the market and start writing from alignment.Along the way, we get into traditional vs. indie publishing, the surprising ways readers find niche work, and how a lifetime in 911 dispatch gave her an unusual brain for the unexpected plot twist.Whether you’re a writer, a creative professional, or anyone trying to live in closer alignment with your values, this conversation offers a steadying mix of humor, insight, and permission to trust the thing that calls to you.Remember that you can find shownotes for this episode and links to all our channels at https://DonnKing.com/100.Resources mentioned in this episode include:* Our sponsor, Butterfly Copywriting. Check it out at https://DonnKing.com/Butterfly.* Donn King’s books. Find out about his latest and all his others at https://DonnKing.com/Books.* NEW: Find books featured by guests of The Alignment Show.* Rachael’s main website: RachaelHerron.com.* Rachael’s Patreon with tons of resources.* Rachael on Instagram.* Rachael’s latest book, The Seven Miracles of Beatrix Holland.* Ink in Your Veins, Rachael’s phenomenal podcast, on Apple and on Spotify.You can find Rachael’s earlier episodes here:and here:Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

What does it take to stand out in a noisy world without becoming a caricature of yourself? In this conversation, marketing expert and bestselling author David Newman, CSP, joins me to talk about the real work behind visibility, credibility, and building a business rooted in who you actually are. We dig into why personal brands now matter more than company brands, how to double down on your human strengths in the age of AI, and why the most successful people aren’t chasing every opportunity—they’re aligning with their values.If you’ve ever wondered how to be seen without being fake, or how to build a reputation that actually serves the people you care about, you’ll want to listen to this one.Resources mentioned in this episode include:* Our sponsor, Butterfly Copywriting. Check it out at https://DonnKing.com/Butterfly.* Donn King’s books. Find out about his latest and all his others at https://DonnKing.com/Books.* David Newman’s main website at DoItMarketing.com.* David’s new book and related materials at MarketEminence.com. Note: special price right now and lots of support materials.* David on LinkedIn.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when we stop trying to master technology and start learning with it?In this episode of The Alignment Show, I sit down with Joshua Hale — a self-taught “holistic tech wizard” who helps creators and entrepreneurs build businesses that serve life instead of consuming it. Joshua’s journey runs from the intensity of restaurant kitchens to the freedom of leading his own AI-driven strategy practice. Along the way, he’s learned that the most valuable skill in a changing world isn’t technical expertise — it’s curiosity.We talk about his “teach-by-doing” approach, the mindset of an autodidact, and how authenticity becomes an asset in an era when anyone can access unlimited information. Joshua also shares his 10-80-10 Method — 10 percent human idea, 80 percent AI execution, 10 percent human refinement — and why seeing AI as a creative co-pilot, not a competitor, can expand both your freedom and your impact.If you’ve ever wondered how to use AI without losing yourself in the process, or how to build a business around learning, purpose, and humanity, you’ll find this conversation both practical and deeply encouraging.About Joshua HaleJoshua Hale is a holistic tech strategist and AI mentor who helps creators and entrepreneurs build life-first businesses—ventures that align purpose, technology, and personal well-being. A self-taught innovator, he blends systems thinking, marketing strategy, and real-world experimentation to make complex technology accessible and empowering. Through his company and community work, Joshua equips people to use AI as a tool for clarity, creativity, and connection rather than complexity or control.Resources & LinksConnect with Joshua Hale🌐 JoshuaHale.io🔗 Joshua's resources for you💼 Joshua Hale on LinkedInMentioned in This Episode* The 10-80-10 Method: Joshua’s framework for balancing human creativity and AI efficiency.* Ikigai: The Japanese concept of finding alignment between what you love, what you’re good at, and what the world will pay for.* Joanna Penn: Writer and podcaster who inspires creators to integrate AI ethically and creatively.Connect with Donn King✉️ Subscribe to The Alignment Show newsletter at TheAlignmentshow.com.🌎 Learn more about my books at DonnKing.com/Books. Take a look at Creating While Caring, my latest book.You can get links to video or audio versions of this episode at DonnKing.com/98. Or (if you’re seeing this in email), just click on the headline to listen via your Substack app, which is probably the best way to watch/listen to either format.You can catch the video on YouTube or audio versions of all episodes later at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and (always) Substack.If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* Prefer text? We turn each podcast into an article.Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Listen here or watch video on YouTube:In this episode of The Alignment Show, I sit down with returning guest Jeff West, one of our “stars in alignment,” to talk about his newest book, The Hidden Heist, co-authored with Bill Cates.Jeff has built a reputation for crafting business parables, stories that don’t just explain principles but draw you in through characters and plot. The Hidden Heist may be his boldest yet: a personal finance parable set entirely during a bank robbery. With humor, tension, and unexpected twists, Jeff and Bill tackle the money myths that hold so many people hostage, while showing the habits that can change a financial future.We also dig into the craft of writing parables—how flawed characters, lived stories, and surprising turns make lessons stick more than any how-to guide could. Along the way, Jeff shares insights about co-authoring, weaving personal experience into fiction, and the unique role of storytelling in an age of AI.Whether you’re curious about money, storytelling, or simply living in closer alignment with your values, you’ll find both encouragement and practical wisdom here.You can hear audio versions of this podcast at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack. Catch the show notes at DonnKing.com/97.Resources mentioned in this episode include:* Our sponsor, Butterfly Copywriting. Check it out at https://DonnKing.com/Butterfly.* Donn King’s books. Find out about his latest and all his others at https://DonnKing.com/Books.* All about Jeff’s new book written along with Bill Cates at https://TheHiddenHeist.com.* A free resource from Bill Cates at https://TheOrdinaryMillionaire.com.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Ever had one of those moments where a “five-minute fix” with technology turns into two hours of hair-pulling? In this solo episode of The Alignment Show, I share a recent run-in with Photoshop that pushed me right to the edge of giving it all up—computers, creative work, even publishing.But behind the exasperation was something deeper:* What do you do when the tools you depend on start draining the joy out of the work?* How do you know if it’s just a temporary frustration—or a sign it’s time to lay something down?* And how do you keep the spark alive in the things you love?I tell a story (with a little humor, a little honesty, and a nod to my AI sidekick “Lizzie”) about nearly tossing my laptop into the lake. More importantly, I invite you to reflect on how you handle those breaking-point moments in your own life.🎧 Listen in, and then let me know: How do you deal with that kind of frustration?Watch the video on YouTube:You can hear audio versions of this podcast at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack. Catch the show notes at DonnKing.com/96.Sponsors for this episode include:* Val Tews and Butterfly Copywriting (DonnKing.com/Butterfly)* Donn’s books, including info on Creating While Caring: Practical Tips to Keep Creating While Caring for a Loved One, coming out before the end of September (DonnKing.com/Books).Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer Pierce spent decades climbing the corporate ladder—investment banking, HR, and commodities trading—before realizing she wasn’t living true to her values. Burnout and loss pushed her to recalibrate her life and eventually find her calling as a leadership coach.In this conversation, Jennifer shares her honest reflections on imposter syndrome, the difference between therapy and coaching, and why true alignment comes when we stop just naming our values and actually live them. She also reveals how a painful personal turning point helped her embrace authenticity, service, and connection.If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to make a change, or if you’ve felt the tug between security and purpose, Jennifer’s story offers encouragement—and a reminder that we’re all just walking each other home.Watch the video on YouTube:You can hear audio versions of this podcast at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack. Catch the show notes at DonnKing.com/95.Resources included in this episode include:* Jennifer’s website at JenPierceCoaching.com.* Jennifer on LinkedIn.* Our sponsors for this episode:* Saleswise Live™* Butterfly Copywriting* Donn’s books, including Creating While Caring, due to be release within September 2025.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you accidentally subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com (which used to host the show), I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Editor’s Note: We are setting up a new publishing workflow, which means we may have a few glitches in the next few episodes. Thanks for bearing with us, and email [email protected] with any problems or issues you have.What happens when a global supply chain strategist, author, and TEDx speaker turns his focus from corporate success to soul-deep purpose? In this inspiring conversation, Andy Bhattacharyya—founder of AI-driven sustainability firm Amplo Global—shares his journey from engineering and ESG compliance to mentoring vulnerable youth and writing fiction that champions resilience.Andy reveals:* Why he blends fiction and nonfiction to teach values-based leadership* How sustainability is evolving beyond compliance into purposeful business strategy* The personal “life versions” that shape his choices and drive his legacy* Stories of overcoming vulnerability, from trafficking prevention to mentoring future leadersWhether you’re navigating a career pivot, seeking more meaning in your work, or curious about the intersection of business, storytelling, and purpose, Andy’s insights will challenge you to think bigger, and act with intention.In this episode we talked about:* Andy’s new venture, LeadWithAndy.com (we never got the QR code in the video, but this will take you right to it.* Val Roskens Tews and her Butterfly Copywriting business, one of our sponsors. Find out more at DonnKing.com/Butterfly.* Donn’s books, including the upcoming release of Creating While Caring. Find out more at DonnKing.com/Books.Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com, I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Andrea Waltz doesn’t just teach people to embrace rejection—she embodies it. In this episode, we sit down with the co-author of the enduring bestseller Go for No! to explore the bold mindset shifts behind her work, the 25-year legacy of a powerful little parable, and what compelled her and husband Richard Fenton to finally write a sequel.This isn’t just a conversation about sales. It’s about risk, courage, creativity, and the emotional grit it takes to do work that matters. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a writer, a solopreneur, or a professional in transition, Andrea’s insight will nudge you to rethink your relationship with failure, and maybe even chase a few more no’s yourself.👉 Tune in to hear the behind-the-scenes origin story of Go for No!, how fiction became a powerful teaching tool, and why mindset, not tactics, is what really gets in the way of meaningful action.* Find the original Go for No! Yes is the Destination, No is How You Get There* Get the sequel: Go for No! The SequelYou can get links to video or audio versions of this episode at DonnKing.com/93. Or (if you're seeing this in email), just click on the headline to watch or listen via your Substack app, which is probably the best way to watch/listen to either format.You know someone who wants to hear this.Make sure you don’t miss show notes. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Next Tuesday, I'm offering two separate opportunities to learn about the power of Substack.If you're seeing this—or reading this—on Substack, there's a good chance you already use it. Not a 100% chance, of course. You can read free material on Substack without ever logging in or subscribing to anyone. But still, a pretty good chance.Even if you're already using it, you might not realize just how much potential Substack has to help you get your message out to a world that needs to hear it.I figured the best way to give you a taste of what we’re going to talk about in the workshop is to use Substack to show you. So, I’m making this post go out through almost every available format Substack offers. That should give you a feel for how flexible it is, and maybe help you decide whether Substack could be useful for you.In the workshop, we’ll take a 20,000-foot view of what Substack can do. This post? Think of it as the 30,000-foot preview.The way I like to explain Substack is with a metaphor: it’s like a Swiss Army knife, or maybe even more like a Leatherman tool. Sure, you could find a better email platform, a more powerful podcast host, or a sleeker blogging tool. But Substack’s strength is in being the Leatherman of creative communication: one solid tool that does everything well enough, and keeps it all in one place.Take this post, for example. I used Substack’s video feature to talk to you, and you’ll find it embedded here. They are rolling out a live video feature, which I don’t have yet. It has some limitations. For instance, it only works from the mobile app, so I can’t use my usual green screen or share slides. But it’s fast, it’s personal, and if you set it up right, the video becomes part of a post that people can watch later. I will use it when it become available to me. For now, I’m recording the video and then uploading it.I can upload a video directly into a post. I can also do an audio version instead—or a full podcast episode. Substack will distribute your podcast to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and just about anywhere else people listen. This will become such a podcast episode.You can embed video or audio in a regular post that is not a podcast. Or you can just write a regular text post (and if you’re reading this, that may be your preference over video or audio). Add photos if you want. Substack will email that post to your list, which makes it a great newsletter tool—which is how a lot of people first think of it. But you can also send posts only to email without publishing them online, more like a traditional mailing list.Readers can find you through search, or they can subscribe to get emails when you publish, so it functions kind of like a blog and kind of like a newsletter. The post editor gives you a lot of formatting flexibility, though not as much as something like WordPress.There’s even a whole ecosystem for short-form posts, like what Twitter used to be, called Notes. You can share quick ideas, links, reactions, and more. (I will post a Note a little later pointing to this post.)And all of this? Free.Now, if you’ve spent any time on the internet, you’ve heard the old line: “If it’s free, you’re the product.” That’s usually true—most free platforms monetize you through ads. But Substack works differently. It’s a freemium model: you can offer paid subscriptions and give your subscribers bonus content or perks. Substack takes 10% of what you earn, which means they only succeed if you do.That’s a different incentive model from most platforms. They don’t throttle your reach. They don’t ask you to “pay to play.” In fact, it’s the opposite. They want more people to find you, subscribe to you, and support you.Now, it’s true that once you hit a certain level of revenue, you might be able to make more money using another system. But many of us—including me—stick with Substack anyway, because it’s just so much easier to manage than the more complex tools out there.And you don’t have to commit to anything in this workshop. I just want to show you what Substack can do (probably a lot more than you realized) and help you see how simple it is to use. It’s great for people who say, “I’m not good at tech,” and it’s efficient enough to appeal to folks who are good at tech but don’t want to spend their lives formatting blog posts.Just because you can format a WordPress post doesn’t mean you want to spend the time it takes to do it.So however you came across this, whether through a recorded video, audio, a text post, a Note, an email, or just stumbling across it online—I hope you’ll check out our workshop on July 8, 2025.And if you find this after that date, don’t worry—you can still find the replay at the link I’ll share. But if you’re seeing this in time, go ahead and sign up. That way you can join us live and get your questions answered.Just go to DonnKing.com/SubstackInfo to sign up. That’s DonnKing.com/SubstackInfo, and that Donn with a double N. DonnKing.com/SubstackInfo.You may know folks who would als

We live in a time of deep division—politically, culturally, even generationally. But what if the path to healing isn’t another argument or another angry post… but service?In this powerful and hope-filled episode, Chip Webster shares how national service, volunteerism, and small acts of human connection can rebuild trust in our communities—and in each other. Drawing on his leadership background and life experience, Chip offers both a compelling vision and a practical invitation.If you’re disheartened by the current state of the country (or the world), this episode will rekindle your belief in what’s possible.In this episode, we talked about these and other topics:* Chip’s current website at UnityInService.org.* Vistage Florida where Chip served for so long.* The history of Sears, which is still technically in business with eight stores and a website.* Chip mentioned a quote by Joan Baez, which is actually, “Action is the antidote to despair.”* We talked about “Sore Loser Laws.” We’ll do a special episode on those later and link to it from here.* Our sponsors continue to support us. Visit Saleswise Live™, Donn Kings Books, and Butterfly Copywriting.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookRemember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you subscribe on ConfidenceCultivators.com, I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show.You know someone who could use this strong message.Head over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com and subscribe to make sure you don’t miss an episode! Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

From interviewing Middle Eastern dignitaries and riding the waves of international journalism, to revolutionizing how modern franchises share knowledge, Penny Hopkinson’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this wide-ranging conversation, Penny shares how she turned a love of words and systems into a career that reshaped an industry.Whether you're a writer, business leader, or someone exploring what it means to live with integrity and purpose, this episode offers real-world wisdom from someone who’s done just that, across borders, generations, and platforms.We also get a special live update from Penny about her upcoming Manual Magic AI tool, a knowledge-sharing SaaS that could change the way businesses capture and transfer know-how.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookResources shared in this episode include:* Penny’s Linktree leading to “all things Penny.”* She’ll post here when Manual Magic AI goes live* She talked about writing a memoir, too. Keep this bookmarked for updates!* Penny on LinkedIn* Hayley Mills info* About shorthand, including samples of systems* Penny’s book, Manual Magic (but remember she is offering access to her new Manual Magic AI through October 2025—keep an eye on her Linktree for when that goes live)* Our new sponsor, Val Rosken Tews at Butterfly Copywriting* Our sponsor, Saleswise Live* Our sponsor, Donn’s books (the new book, Creating While Caring, will be coming out soon and will be linked here).Share, like, and subscribe!Remember that we have moved our home over to our new site at TheAlignmentShow.com. We encourage you to subscribe there!If you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message on the podcast at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Note: if you subscribe here on Confidence Cultivator, I will comp you the equivalent subscription on King’s Chronicles, the new home of The Alignment Show. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when the wheels come off the wagon, the train jumps the track, and everything melts into a puddle of nope?In this raw, deeply personal solo episode, Donn King pulls back the curtain on life as a caregiver in crisis mode. With honesty, humor, and hard-won wisdom, he offers seven ways to keep going when stopping isn’t an option, and the finish line is nowhere in sight.Whether you're caregiving, grieving, exhausted, or simply overwhelmed, this episode will remind you: you are not alone, and your next small step still matters.Resources we shared include:* New sponsor Butterfly Copywriting. Val Roskens Tews is a long-time friend of the show, but she’s new as a sponsor, so let me tell you a little about her. She is a content strategy writer who helps authors and coaches get past the overwhelm of creating content to post on LinkedIn. She offers stress-free content creation that helps them build a community of readers, potential clients, and business friends. Think of it as transformative content solutions.* Keep up with happenings with Donn’s books. The next one, Creating While Caring, is just about ready for birth.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookIf you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsPlus, Sponsoring Members receive ebook copies of all my books as well as a sponsorship message at least once a month.That’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”BONUS bonus: For this post, we are sharing all the “Paid Subscriber” bonuses with all of our readers so you can see the type of material that is included. That way you can decide if it is worthwhile to you to support the show through a paid subscription or ongoing BuyMeACoffee.The Confidence Cultivator, home of The Alignment Show, is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.You know someone who needs this encouragement.✨ Subscriber-Only Content1. 💡 The Big TakeawayResilience isn’t about pushing through at full strength. It’s about showing up faithfully, one breath, one task, one moment at a time.2. 📌 Bulleted Summary* The reality of crisis-phase caregiving: 108 hours of responsibility in a 168-hour week* Why silence around hardship makes people feel more alone, and how to break that silence* Seven practical and compassionate ways to carry on when everything has collapsed* Reflections on strength, presence, and the gift of being disillusioned* The challenge (and comfort) of living without a foreseeable end to the current crisis* The vital importance of being seen, even if just for five minutes3. 🛠️ Practical Tips* Journal or voice-record your uncensored feelings. “Give them air so they don’t rot inside you.”* Use micro-relief tools like a hand over your heart, a five-minute reset timer, or a smooth worry stone in your pocket.* Ask ruthless questions: “What happens if I don’t do this?” “What is good enough instead of ideal?”* Allow yourself to disappoint someone a little so you don’t collapse completely.* Create mini-rituals like lighting a candle, repeating a phrase, or writing a nightly sentence, such as, “Today, I showed up.”* Say one true thing out loud each day, such as, “This is impossible. But I’m doing it anyway.”4. 🧠 Quote to Ponder“We've never really known the future. We've only ever lived moment to moment, step to step, breath to breath. We've lived with the illusion of predictability. Now we've literally been disillusioned. And maybe, strangely, that's a kind of gift.”5. ⏱ Topic Index with Timestamps (Estimated)* 00:00 – Intro and sponsor highlights* 05:00 – Why this solo episode now? A caregiver’s reality* 10:00 – Language for crisis: when it all goes pear-shaped…* 11:00 – Seven Ways to Stay When You Can’t Leave* 11:20 – #1: Acknowledge the truth without judgment* 13:30 – #2: Micro relief and micro control* 15:55 – #3: Ruthless mental simplification* 20:50 – #4: Talk back to the isolation* 24:50 – #5: Redefine strength as softness* 26:45 – #6: Ritualize something, anything* 30:15 – #7: Say one true thing each day* 33:00 – Reflection: “This isn’t new. It’s just deeper.”* 36:00 – Final encouragement: “You are still here.”With our next post, we will provide paid subscribers a downloadable PDF with the seven ways along with some discussion about each. You’ll receive that, even if you just sign up as a paid subscriber for a month! Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecu

Dan Janal thought he was the picture of health, working out regularly, feeling fine, living fully. So when a routine checkup turned into a life-threatening diagnosis, everything changed… and so did his mindset.In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dan shares how he went from shocked patient to hopeful guide, using his skills as a writer and speaker to reframe what it means to live with cancer. What begins as a health crisis becomes a life mission and a lesson in hope, presence, and purpose for all of us.If you’ve ever faced something unexpected, or you’re looking for a practical example of living in alignment with your values even in the hardest seasons, this episode will move you.We talked about these resources:* Cured: Strengthen Your Immune System and Heal Your Life by Jeffrey Rediger.* Dan’s web site for Reframing Cancer.* Dan’s Substack.* Lois Creamer’s episode 80.* The world-famous Mayo Clinic.* Our sponsor: Saleswise Live™.* Our sponsor: Donn’s books.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookIf you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive a bonus post each month for subscribers only, including an audio version. Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books.UPDATE: We are experimenting with bonus material for Paid subscribers (including those who support us through regular Buy Me a Coffee payments). We will now share with Paid subscribers the following bonus material for each episode:* The “Big Takeaway”* A bulleted summary of the episode* Practical tips from the episode* A quote to ponder* A topic index with timestampsThat’s our way for saying “thanks for the support!”Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe

What if grief could become a gateway to transformation, not just sorrow?In this powerful episode, Donn talked with grief educator Suzanne Jabour, who shared her moving journey after the loss of her 22-year-old son, Ben. Suzanne doesn’t offer platitudes; she offers permission. Permission to grieve differently. Permission to support others more meaningfully. And permission to be curious even in the darkest places.Whether you’re walking through your own loss or want to better support someone who is, this conversation will change the way you think about grief and connection.Resources we discussed include:* Suzanne’s website.* Suzanne’s LinkedIn.* A previous episode about managing grief with Kevin O’Connor.* Saleswise Live™.* Donn’s books.* “Writing Home: A Short Story about the Real Final Frontier,” a free short story to support you in living your own values.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookIf you get value from the show, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. You can make a one-time contribution or sign up for regular support. Your support helps me continue helping you and others, and thank you in advance!You know someone who needs this kind of support. Help them out!You can also subscribe on Substack for free OR upgrade to a paid subscription to receive a bonus post each month for subscribers only, including an audio version. Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books.The Confidence Cultivator is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to The Confidence Cultivator at confidencecultivator.substack.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kingschronicles.substack.com/subscribe