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

What does it take to follow your passion—responsibly?In this episode of The Alignment Show, I sat down with Ahuva Gruen, founder of AG Financial CPA, to explore her inspiring journey from corporate CFO to independent business owner. Ahuva shared how she aligned her career with her lifelong entrepreneurial spirit, even in the face of major life transitions. We discussed the difference between a CPA and a CFO, why businesses need strategic financial leadership, and how individuals can responsibly pursue their dreams without sacrificing stability. Whether you're considering a leap toward your own business or looking to strengthen the one you already have, this conversation is packed with wisdom about living your values, taking smart risks, and building a thriving future.Resources we mentioned include:* Ahuva’s website* Ahuva on LinkedIn* Saleswise Live™* Donn’s booksYou can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookShare your comments, even though the broadcast is over! We always pay attention and would love to continue the conversation.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 a bonus post each month for subscribers only, including an audio version. Plus, Founding Members receive ebook copies of all my books.You know someone who could use this boost! 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

When the pandemic shook up our routines, many people didn’t just quit their jobs. They realigned their lives. That’s why I called it the Great Realignment rather than the Great Resignation. But now, five years later, is that sense of realignment still alive?In this solo episode, I reflect on the origins of The Alignment Show and explore whether it’s time to pause and ask: Am I still living in alignment with what matters most to me?We unpacked the difference between goals and mission, the trap of chasing the merely urgent, and how small moments of reflection, even five minutes at a time, can steer you toward a more meaningful life. I also shared a few personal stories, insights from friends of the show, and why I believe your values deserve a fresh look.🔗 Mentioned in this episode:* My Books* SalesWise Live* Wordslinger Podcast by Kevin Tumlinson for all things Kevin, along with the specific episode I mentioned.* The Alignment episode with Kevin* The book we mentioned about keeping your earning activities separate from your passion activities is Creating the Life You Really Want, Building the Career You Truly Desire.* We mentioned the idea that we have crossed the mountains (which means we’ve left the “old normal” behind), and we’re not going back to the way things were before. That concept was explored deeply in Canoeing the Mountains by Tod Bolsinger.* My other Substack is King’s Chronicles. It has a little different focus, but it is likely one that would appeal to listeners of The Alignment Show.* We talked about the Eisenhower Matrix. You can learn more about it here.* We mentioned Life 101: Everything We Wish We Had Learned About Life in School—But Didn'tYou 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.The Confidence Cultivator is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.You know someone who could benefit from these insights. 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

Note: I’m running a little behind posting the show notes and audio podcast for this episode. My grandson wound up needing emergency surgery (he is OK now), and so I just now have time to get it posted. But Kevin is worth waiting for!I’m thrilled to welcome back one of our "Stars in Alignment"—Kevin Tumlinson. Kevin is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, podcaster, and one of the most values-centered creatives I know. He’s also someone I personally fanboy over a bit (you’ll hear why).In this rich, wide-ranging conversation, we talked about the ongoing quest to align our lives with our values, even when life throws curveballs. Kevin opened up about shifting from discovery writing to outlining, navigating burnout, and rediscovering joy in writing after a difficult season. He also shared insights from launching a new venture, Author Anchor, which helps writers focus on what they love—writing—by offloading the rest to trained virtual assistants.Whether you're a writer or not, this episode is about far more than craft. It's about humility, resilience, and realignment. It’s about finding your mission and having the courage to keep creating even when the world gets loud.Among other things, in this episode we talked about:* The mother source for all things Kevin.* The auntie source for all things Kevin’s books (i.e., Amazon).* The Wordslinger podcast on YouTube.* Kevin on Substack, including his newsletter, The Writer_.* Draft2Digital got mentioned several times. Check them out.* Author Nation, the world’s largest author conference and multi-genre reader event, uniting authors, industry leaders, and readers for five transformative days of learning, networking, and growth.* Author Anchor provides cost-effective Virtual Assistants. Book a free discovery call tell them Kevin Tumlinson sent you from The Alignment Show. Doing so enables you to get your first month for $49 instead of $99 (VA rates will still apply—this is a discount off the base monthly fee).* Donn’s books, a show sponsor. It costs you nothing to check it out! You may find your next favorite read.* Saleswise Live™, a show sponsor. Again, it costs you nothing to check it out! You may change the course of your career, which is why they’re such a great sponsor for The Alignment Show.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.You know someone who needs to hear this!And, we would love to converse with you. Questions for Kevin? Comments about what we talked about? 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

🎙️ The Alignment Show with Donn King welcomed Todd Payne, founder of Konnectfully, emotional intelligence coach, and former Lutheran pastor with a powerful origin story.🔥 From being told he had "none of the gifts for ministry" to helping couples rediscover empathy and joy in their relationships, Todd brings a refreshing take on transformation, resilience, and the surprising role of the Enneagram in fostering real connection.Oh—and did we mention? He now lives in Portugal, after losing his home to a wildfire and choosing to start over with intention. Talk about falling upward!💬 Whether you're navigating a relationship crossroads, curious about emotional intelligence, or just love hearing how people realign their lives with purpose, this conversation is rich, real, and relevant.Resources we discussed include:* Todd’s website* Todd’s LinkedIn* We talked about videos of colorblind folks seeing color for the first time with the help of special glasses. Here is one such video among many.* Donn mentioned his newsletter. Check it out and subscribe for free, or go paid and receive audio versions and other perks.* Go look into Saleswise Live™.* One of Donn’s books will encourage you or a friend.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could use the insights from this conversation. Why not tell them, “Hey, you would enjoy listening to this episode!”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 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. 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

Note: For the past few weeks, I’ve been uploading a video version of the podcast to Substack, but I’ve noticed a few things: (a) most listeners aren’t using Substack for video (at least, for this podcast), (b) we already provide links to the live video replays, making this redundant, and (c) splitting my focus between video and audio has likely affected the audio quality.So, I’m shifting back to our original approach—prioritizing high-quality audio on Substack (and podcast platforms) while directing video learners to our existing video channels. If I’ve misread what works best for you, let me know in the comments or email me at [email protected]!How do we engage in tough conversations without losing our cool—or our relationships? In this powerful episode of The Alignment Show, host Donn King sits down with Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver, to discuss the art of tactful yet honest communication.With today’s divisive climate, it often feels impossible to have meaningful discussions with those who hold opposing views—whether at the holiday dinner table or in the workplace. Bob shares practical strategies for navigating disagreements with grace, avoiding emotional reactivity, and fostering genuine connection—even when tensions run high.The Confidence Cultivator is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this episode we talked about:* Why so many conversations escalate into personal attacks—and how to stop it.* The Ransberger Pivot technique for reframing discussions to find common ground.* How to respond (not react) when faced with inflammatory statements.* The secret to changing minds—without manipulation or aggression.* When to engage—and when to walk away.Whether you're trying to communicate better in your personal life, in business, or online, this conversation will give you tools to defuse conflict, build trust, and make your message heard.Watch or listen for a masterclass on influence, persuasion, and the power of respectful dialogue with Bob Burg.Here are some of the resources we shared in this episode:* Bob’s books* Saleswise Live™* The Go-Giver Success Vault* Jeff West’s books* Let Them Theory* Living Untethered* Russell Moore, former editor of Christianity Today, on modern “Christians” calling the teachings of Jesus “weak.”* Donn’s books* Free short story: “Writing Home: A Short Story About the Real Final Frontier”You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who needs to hear this.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 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. 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

Thank you for your patience! We broadcast the episode as scheduled last Friday, but we’re just now posting the show notes and feeding the audio to those outlets. But this was a conversation worth waiting for!The Alignment Show welcomed back Lizbeth Meredith, a writer, speaker, and resilience advocate whose journey has inspired audiences worldwide. You may remember her from Episode 76, where we explored her compelling memoir and the strength it takes to reclaim one’s life. In this episode, she returned with exciting news—her latest book, Tilka Faces the Odds, is soon available in audiobook format!The Confidence Cultivator is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Remember her from that past episode?This is the followup!Among the things we discussed:✔️ The behind-the-scenes process of recording an audiobook—the challenges, surprises, and victories along the way.✔️ Why Lizbeth chose to narrate her own book and what it means to bring Tilka’s story to life✔️ The resilience and reinvention that shape both her writing and her life. ✔️ How storytelling empowers us to navigate life’s unexpected turns.✔️ A glimpse into her upcoming projects, including a travel memoir and an anthology highlighting solo travel as a path to healing.You can access some of the following resources we discussed:* Tilka Faces the Odds* Pieces of Me* Grounded in Grit* Life 101: Everything We Wish We Had Learned About Life in School - But Didn't* Donn’s books* Saleswise Live™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 for freeOR 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.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could benefit from hearing this. Do them and us a favor! 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

We had a great conversation this week with Joanna Penn, despite challenges facing your host.We originated the podcast from my daughter’s hospital room, and so the audio quality of the intro and outro isn’t up to our usual standards. Plus, although the promo went up on our video channels, our subscribers did not get the notice of the upcoming episode, for which I apologize! Plus again, stutters in the video feed led to a less-than-optimal experience on the video channels.I’m going to re-edit the video and post it on the video channels so that folks who prefer video will have a better experience, but I wanted to go ahead and post this to the list for those who prefer audio. When we have the new videos up, I will send you a brief message, and I will then point this post to those better videos.Why did I want to get this out rather than just skip this episode, especially since we’ve said the podcast has become irregular? Because it featured Jo Penn, and we had already announced it. Jo is a trailblazer in independent publishing, a pioneer in Kindle publishing, and a forward-thinking creator embracing the role of an AI-assisted artisan author. She writes craft books to support writers as Joanna Penn, and fiction, travel, and memoir as J.F. Penn. With nearly 40 books to her name under both “Penn names,” her impact on modern publishing is unmatched.Her craft books, like How to Market a Book and How to Write Non-Fiction, are must-reads for anyone serious about writing and publishing in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Now, Joanna is back with a completely rewritten and updated second edition of How to Write Non-Fiction, tailored to meet the needs of modern writers in the digital age.We were privileged to host Jo in January 2024, just around a year ago……and we’re thrilled to welcome her back for another insightful conversation. Get ready to learn from one of the most innovative voices in the writing world as we discuss her journey, her creative process, and her vision for the future of publishing.Resources we discussed include:* Episode 46 of The Alignment Show.* Joanna Penn’s website for writers and online bookstore for writers.* J.F. Penn’s website for her work and online bookstore for fiction, memoir, and other projects.* We referenced Midjourney as the tool Jo has used recently to aid in cover design.* We also talked about her use of Runway.ml to produce video. 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 drives a leader to keep serving, even after an accomplished military career? Meet Dennis LaRue—Air Force veteran, leadership coach, and a man dedicated to helping others rise to their full potential.Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Dennis through The Go-Givers Success Vault, the thriving community built around The Go-Giver principles. From the start, he has impressed me—not just with his deep leadership knowledge, but with the way he teaches it. He has a gift for making leadership practical, personal, and powerful.Dennis spent 23 years in the U.S. Air Force, earning accolades for his problem-solving expertise and strategic insight. But instead of coasting into retirement, he leaned into his passion for leadership development. Now, as a Maxwell Leadership Team coach, an adjunct faculty coach at the University of Denver, and a Values-Based Leadership specialist, he’s helping leaders at every level—from young professionals to the C-Suite—lead with clarity and purposeIn this episode, we explore Dennis’s journey from military service to leadership coaching, his passion for values-driven leadership, and the principles that have shaped his mission to empower others.Among the items we discussed:* Dennis’s website* Dennis on LinkedIn* #steeltoesrequired, Dennis’s newsletter* Donn’s books* Saleswise Live™ and their upcoming trainingYou can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone—maybe a veteran, maybe someone else wanting to grow in leadership—who would benefit from this conversation. Do them and us a favor!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 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. 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

For over 30 20 years, Lois Creamer has shaped the professional speaking industry more than almost anyone else—yet most people outside the business have never heard her name. This week on The Alignment Show, I sit down with Lois, a longtime friend and mentor, to explore her incredible journey of helping speakers book more business, maximize their impact, and thrive in a constantly evolving industry.Unlike many of my guests who have made bold career shifts to align with their values, Lois is a rare example of someone who has always known her values and has built a legacy by staying true to them while continuously adapting. From her early career in sales and marketing to becoming the go-to consultant for professional speakers worldwide, Lois has invaluable insights for anyone looking to make a living from their expertiseWe talked about her origin stories—her foray into entrepreneurship as a pre-teen, her unexpected opportunity to learn sales with U.S. Steel, and her discovery of her ability to serve clients in a very niche business. Although she has been highly influential and successful in her niche, her insights for building a sales business on relationships and integrity will serve anyone in business.Things we discussed include:* The recent release of the updated edition of her highly influential book, entitled Book More Business: Make MORE Money Speaking.* An earlier book by Lois and her co-author and book coach, Cathy Fyock, for both speakers and writers, called The Speaker Author: Sell More Books and Book More Speeches.* More information about our sponsor, Saleswise Live™, a program that fits perfectly into Lois’s approach of never engaging in pushy sales.* Get a free short story as a sort of sample for Donn’s writing. A lone astronaut. An impossible coffee shop. A story that shouldn’t exist—yet might hold the key to the universe itself. Download “Writing Home: A Short Story About the Real Final Frontier” for free.* Find all of Donn’s books here.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 catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookDo a friend a favor.Make sure you don’t miss an episode.Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. 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 week, I’m joined by Tracy Rees, an educator, coach, and founder of Authentic Pathways Coaching and Consulting. I've known Tracy for years, and she’s always sought to help others grow. Now, she’s expanding her impact by blending her passion for teaching with the power of coaching.We dug into her journey of professional growth, what led her to launch her own coaching business while still teaching, and how these two roles complement and strengthen each other. If you've ever wondered how to expand your impact and serve others in new ways—this conversation is for you!Though we recorded the interview a few months ago, her journey remains current. Her coaching aligns perfectly with the goals of The Alignment Show, helping people identify and follow their values for a valuable life.Resources we discussed include:* A link that will stay current as Tracy continues to build out her website and means of contact: DonnKing.com/Tracy.* I missed sharing Tracy's comment (live) during the broadcast, but she reminded me that you can reach her by email at [email protected] if you have questions or would like more information. Check that out!* Our shows sponsors:* Saleswise Live is coming up again in early April.* Find all of Donn’s book at DonnKing.com/BooksIf 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!You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could use this encouragement. Do them (and us) a favor: share it freely!Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. 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

Last week I had a great interview with Jo Penn on The Alignment Show. But we had tech issues. I wanted to make a better version available for solopreneurs and writers. Here I'm uploading a higher quality version. The video links below will point to replays of the original broadcast (except for the “extra” YouTube link), but you can see the recut version on Substack. If you’re listening to the audio podcast, it is the audio from the recut version.Joanna Penn is a trailblazer in independent publishing, a pioneer in Kindle publishing, and a forward-thinking creator embracing the role of an AI-assisted artisan author. With nearly 40 books to her name—spanning fiction, nonfiction, and short stories—her impact on modern publishing is unmatched.Her craft books, like "How to Market a Book" and "How to Write Non-Fiction," are must-reads for anyone serious about writing and publishing in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Now, Joanna is back with a completely rewritten and updated second edition of "How to Write Non-Fiction," tailored to meet the needs of modern writers in the digital age.We were privileged to host Joanna in January 2024, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back for another insightful conversation. Get ready to learn from one of the most innovative voices in the writing world as we discuss her journey, her creative process, and her vision for the future of publishing.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* Facebook* YouTube (broadcast)* YouTube (recut)The resources we discussed include:* Runway.ml for video* Midjourney* Michael Bungay Stanier episode on Jo's podcast* The Creative Penn website* Creative Penn books* J.F. Penn books* Donn’s books* Donn’s free short story, “Writing Home” (aka, “The Cheese Sample”)You can support the show. Just Buy Me a Coffee—now with the option of monthly support. Thank you very much for helping me continue to help you and others!You know someone this episode would inspire. Do them a favor.Make sure you don’t miss shownotes or episodes. It’s free!Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. 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

In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Bill Dickinson, a renowned executive coach who has spent over 30 years transforming leaders across industries, companies, and nonprofits. Drawing on his 25 years as a Roman Catholic priest, Bill shares how his deep study of leadership and authenticity not only shaped his work training other priests but also sparked a profound personal realization. When his passion for authenticity revealed he wasn’t living authentically himself, Bill made the courageous decision to leave the priesthood. Now, he channels his unique journey into helping others embrace their calling and develop impactful, authentic leadership. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and integrity.We talked about these and other resources:* Saleswise Live™ is having another go-round, this time virtually so you don’t have to worry about travel! If you’re reading/watching/listening before 20 January 2025, you can get in on the training for 29-31 January. Never fear—if you’re reading this after that, the plan to hold one about once a quarter.* You can find almost all of Donn King’s books at DonnKing.com/books. Plus, for a limited time you can check out Donn’s style as well as the flavor of “The Sparklight Chronicles” and get a free short story at DonnKing.com/FreeWritingHome.* Reach Bill by email at [email protected].* Check out his company’s website at https://www.c3leadership.org/.* Get a copy of Bill’s book, Optimizing Self: A Guided Workbook to Elevate Your Impact as a Leader.* Connect with Bill on LinkedIn.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.Plus, this is the first episode where we share not just the audio, but also the video right here on Substack. Let us know what you think about that!* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookWant to help support the show? We will soon turn on paid subscriptions here and open up a Patreon with extras. Or you can just Buy Me a Coffee (which has options for ongoing support as well).You know someone struggling with similar issues. Help them out!Make sure you keep up with future guests and never miss the 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

It’s a rare guest whose life story leads to an actual movie, but that’s true for today’s guest! Her memoir inspired the TV movie “Stolen By Their Father.”In this episode, Lizbeth shares:✨ How her work with trauma survivors prepared her for her own challenges.✨ The harrowing journey of reclaiming her children after their abduction.✨ The shocking discovery of her own kidnapping as a child—and the resilience it sparked.As I said in the observations, the particulars of Lizbeth’s story is so rare, you might look at it and think you can’t relate. But Lizbeth and every guest on “The Alignment Show” demonstrates in their particulars something useful to us all, i.e., how to harness resilience. You will find something here that will encourage you in your own journey, and that’s what we’re all about.Resources in this episode include:* Lizbeth’s memoir, Pieces of Me.* Her book aimed at helping people develop their resilience, Grounded in Grit.* Her latest book, embodying the Alaskan phrase about the view from a woman’s standpoint regarding the skewed ratio of men to women in Alaska, “The odds are good, but the good are odd,” Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time.* The book that includes an essay from Lizbeth, Goodbye For Now: True Stories of Life, Love, and Loss.* Lizbeth’s website, LAMeredith.com.* Lizbeth’s YouTube channel, “Tame Trauma and Build Resilience Through Story.”* Donn’s books, DonnKing.com/books.* The new free (for now) short story from Donn, DonnKing.com/FreeWritingHome.* The upcoming virtual edition of Saleswise Live™.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookSomeone you know needs to hear this. Share it with them now!Make sure you don’t miss an episode and its show notes!Thanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. 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

Even the most negative experiences can yield lessons that have a positive impact. The Alignment Show returns with an extraordinary interview featuring Yankel Meislin—a man whose transformative journey grips the heart and inspires the soul. Whether you’re religious or not, Yankel’s story of redemption, resilience, and rediscovery delivers powerful lessons for anyone seeking personal growth.Yankel grew up as a secular Jew, thriving in sports and community life, until temptations from the streets pulled him off course at 14. By 19, he dealt drugs at such a high level that he hired a gang-affiliated bodyguard to protect him. When his family issued an ultimatum—leave “the life” or lose them—he chose to turn his life around.He entered rehab and threw himself into 12-step programs, where he began a spiritual journey reconnecting him with his Jewish roots. Serendipitous encounters with a Chassidic Rabbi deepened his faith and led him to embrace the Chassidic way of life. Today, with 16 years of sobriety, he inspires others with his story and example.Resources mentioned include:* Yankel’s book, The Journey to Oz.* Ignite Your Flame Coaching.* Upcoming Saleswise Live™—hurry, the next one is at the end of January 2025!* Brand new free short story in the Sparklight Chronicles series, “Writing Home.”* Donn’s books.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack. We’re happy for audio listeners, but more and more we’re able to share comments that are only available in video, so you may want to check one of these out.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could use this encouragement.We’re publishing on an irregular schedule, so it’s even more important than ever that you subscribe to make sure you don’t miss an episode and learn about upcoming guests. 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

As the subhead says, this is embarrassing. This is what happens when a) you deal with ADHD, and b) you break from your normal routine.“Your promo says Oct. 9, Donn, but this post seems to be nearly a month later, Nov. 8,” you say. And you have a good point. What happened is that we actually broadcast the episode on Oct. 9, as planned. But just yesterday as I came here to set up the next episode, I noticed that we had never posted the replay and show notes for Episode 74. (And by “we,” I mean “I.” It’s all my fault.)Doh!So, late though it is, here is the info for that episode, because it provides a good bridge into what follows. As I write this, I’m getting the next broadcast ready, and I’ll tell you about that in a later post. In any case, here is the material for Episode 74.In this solo episode I talked a little about what’s happened the last couple of months and what the plans are for the future. We have several episodes already recorded, and plans for more. Plus, as I mentioned in our last episode, we have some format changes coming up. The brief version: episodes will be recorded rather than live (though we will take advantage of live streaming to release episodes, and I’ll do my best to be on at the same time so I can help get your comments posted and responded to during the broadcast). The length of each episode will be shorter. And the release time for each episode will vary week to week—and I’ll talk about why, and why we’re running counter to the usual advice about “consistency,” later.As always, though, you can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn Live (note: the replay seems to be having problems—you may need to watch one of the other options)* Facebook Live* YouTube LiveThanks for reading The Confidence Cultivator! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. 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

You have probably moved residences more than once. You probably thought about it for a long time before doing so, and found it stressful. A few of you have moved to a different state, fewer still to a different country.Rachael Herron moved halfway around the world and managed it all within six months or so—during the height of the pandemic! And then she wrote a book about it.I will guarantee you that if you listen to this conversation, you will gain encouragement for your own challenges and difficult decisions. You will even learn a bit about managing your fear, how to differentiate fear you should pay attention to from fear you should transcend, and insights into taking steps instead of leaping into the void. We even touched on transforming from stuff owning us to us owning stuff .We’re taking a pause after this episode, so be sure to take advantage of this deep, engaging conversation!Folks, we talked about a bunch of things this week. They include:* Rachael previously came on the show to talk about her journey into becoming a full-time author. You can hear it on Episode 43.* We talked about several best-selling books we both know, including one called Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers.* We also mentioned Quit by Annie Duke.* Another great memoir is Educated by Tara Westover.* Of course, we talked about Rachael’s books. Her latest is her memoir about moving from the United States to New Zealand, entitled Unstuck. It’s more than a memoir. It’s also a great guide to experiencing the freedom of choice, even (maybe especially) when you think you have none.* Rachael has a bunch more books, too. We specifically talked about A Life in Stitches: Knitting My Way Through Love, Loss, and Laughter and Fast-Draft Your Memoir: Write Your Life Story in 45 Hours.* You can find all of Rachael’s books in one place at her website especially for said books. Her main website has a lot of good information as well.* Join Rachael’s Patreon, where you will get all kinds of solid information on writing of various kinds as well as the opportunity for a ridiculously low price to join her writing community.* Rachael’s newsletter also shares great insights on writing.* Rachael has a long-running podcast, currently called “Ink in Your Veins.” You can find it on your favorite podcatcher, but I like to get it on Rachael’s YouTube channel.* Saleswise Live is coming up September 22-24, 2024 at The Ben Hotel, West Palm Beach, Florida. Along with the fantastic principals of Bob Burg, Jeff West, and Kim Angeli, they will have special guest Richard Weylman.* My list of books is growing! Bookmark DonnKing.com/books to stay up to date.If you gain value from the show, consider supporting our work by buying me a coffee. Special thanks to those of you who have bought more than one, and who have signed up for ongoing support. You help me continue to help you and others!You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookShare this with someone who needs the encouragement. It’s free, and they will thank you!Make sure you get show notes and don’t miss upcoming guests. We’ll be back the first week in September! 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

Despite some technical challenges, we had a great conversation with Kim Angeli this week. Kim has had a stellar career in entrepreneurship and sales built on the foundation of genuine relationships. You can see something significant in her approach in her coaching and business by the fact that she has never made a cold call. She continues to coach multi-million dollar executives, and recently began serving as one of the three experts featured in Saleswise Live. Her entrepreneurial journey, like most, has had its ups and downs, leading her to base her practice in cultivating gratitude.Among other resources we discussed:* The Power of Who: You Already Know Everyone You Need to Know by Bob Beaudine* The Power of Focus by Jack Canfield* 100 Proven Ways to Acquire and Keep Clients for Life by Richard Weylman* Timely info: next Wednesday, July 17, at 2 PM Eastern time, Kim will, along with Bob Burg and Jeff West, offer a free preview of the upcoming Saleswise Live. Mention the code “ALIGN” in the “Questions and Comments” box, and I will send you free ebook copies of The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why and Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In, the first two books in the Sparklight Chronicles.* Or if you just want to check out copies of either book, find them here.* If you get value from this podcast, consider supporting what we do with a one-time payment or set up ongoing support at BuyMeACoffee.Remember that we will have no broadcasts in August as we retool for a different format. But stay tuned for more of The Alignment Show!Next week, our guest will be Cristina Bianca Harsan, a native of Romania now living in the United Kingdom. Despite a thriving career as a translator and interpreter, she felt a deep emptiness and longing for more. This led her to explore Reiki and Tarot, which helped her find healing and spiritual growth. Through these practices, Cristina found peace and a deeper sense of connection, enriching both her personal life and professional work. We will talk with her about her journey through multiple changes, lessons you can use in navigating your own journey.You can catch video replays of Kim Angeli’s conversation at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who needs this shot of energy! Don’t keep it to yourself!Make sure to get show notes and info on upcoming guests. It’s free! 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 week we talked with Vanessa Judelman, who is president of Mosaic People Development. For over twenty years, Vanessa has helped clients develop leaders who inspire great results. She started as an assistant at a training company and worked her way up through almost all the roles, learning every aspect of business from the ground up. She then started her own company. From her experience working “in the trenches” herself as a leader, she teaches her clients a very practical approach to leadership that she has used to develop her own high-performing teams. We talked about the insights she learned from her time teaching high school through her own school of experience in effective leadership and how she now does that for clients. Our conversation will help you mine your own experience to help you live your values and value your life.Among other resources, we talked about:* Mosaic People Development, Vanessa’s home base for making a huge difference to her clients.* Connect with Vanessa on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessajudelman/; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessajudelman/; X: https://x.com/MosaicPD* Vanessa’s book, Mastering Leadership: What it Takes to Lead in Today's Fast Paced World.* Donn’s books.* Saleswise Live will have their second gathering in early September. If you work in any profession that involves influencing people (sales, consulting, ministry, politics, lots of others), Saleswise Live will help you help others. It costs nothing to check it out, so take a look.If you receive value from our podcast, consider supporting us through Buy Me a Coffee. It helps me keep on helping you and others.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could use this inspiration. Don’t keep it to yourself!Make sure you don’t miss the show notes or upcoming guests. It’s free! 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

We talked this week with Shannon Crotty about how she got started publishing a magazine, and later jumped in with both feet to found a a global connection company called Polka Dot Powerhouse, aimed at fostering friendships and business relationships among women. Her community includes members from the US, UK, Canada, Europe, and Australia, and it all started (and continues) because of the support from her sister, Tina, who passed away in 2010.She has distilled her experience in a book entitled No One Is Peeing in the Deep End: A Survival Guide for Launching a Dream. Shannon completely exemplifies persistence in following your heart, the core of living your values so you can value your life. Follow along for this inspiring conversation that will help you in whatever matters to you!Among the things we talked about:* Find Shannon’s book on Amazon.* Check out Polka Dot Powerhouse.* Check out Shannon’s website to work with her as a speaker and to watch for her upcoming book on forming friendships in adulthood.* Connect with Shannon on Instagram.* Connect with Shannon on Facebook.* If you need to influence people in your life (and who doesn’t?), you owe it to yourself to see if Saleswise Live will help you serve better.* If you haven’t already read one of the Sparklight Chronicles books, check them out. You will find support for your own journey, and it never hurts to look.Thank you to those who have supported the show already! If you get value from the show or from an episode, you can Buy Me a Coffee, which helps me continue helping you and others.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could benefit from hearing Shannon’s story. Don’t keep it to yourself!Make sure you don’t miss an episode. The subscription is free! 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

We didn’t get finished last week! Jim Stovall has so much more going on, we wanted to dig more, and we had the opening. So this Friday we dug deeper into how Jim has taken steps to honor his highest values by structuring his life for that. Last week was fascinating! This week was as well. We talked quite a bit about beekeeping (and if you think, “I’m not going to keep bees, that doesn’t matter to me,” think again. There are all sorts of life lessons in there!), a little bit about water coloring and creativity, and a good bit about the podcast Jim co-produces (just like with the bees, don’t discount this because you don’t podcast). Life lessons, I’m telling you!).Things we talked about include:* Jim’s website, including a sign-up for his weekly newsletter, a fascinating compendium of observations about famous writers, baseball, bees, fishing, and life. Plus, he shares one of his watercolors every week.* The Writing for the Mass Media textbook* Kill the Quarterback novel* Point Spread novel* Vietnam Voices: Stories of East Tennesseans Who Served in Vietnam, 1965-1975 (five book series)* Civil War Combat Artists and the Pictures They Drew (five book series)* Heads and Tales: Caricatures and Stories of the Famous, the Infamous, and the Just Plain Interesting, a book that brings together insights like those published in his newsletter, including watercolors and caricatures of those on whom he focuses. Here’s the book cover:* The upcoming Saleswise Live* The Go-Giver Success Alliance (check back to see when they’re accepting new applications)* All of Donn’s books* (Note: Jim has other books he doesn’t even list any of these places. We’ll share some of them in next week’s show.* If you get value from this show and would like to support it, you can Buy Me a Coffee (or several). That helps me keep helping you and others. Thank you to those who already support in this way!You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who would enjoy this interview. Don’t keep it to yourself!Keep up with upcoming guests and show notes. It’s free: 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

We’re a little late getting the replays and audio podcast posted this week. After a great episode live Friday morning, I managed to have a hard fall in our home and injure the knee of the same leg that has had an ankle brace for a year. The brace protected the ankle, but worsened the effect on my knee. (I’m OK. X-rays confirm nothing is broken, but getting the medical attention took a chunk of time I usually use for editing and posting the audio.)As long as I’m inserting “editorial comments,” I’ll go ahead and say that this interview fascinated me so much, we didn’t get more than halfway through. And so Jim has graciously agreed to come on next week as well, when we will continue the conversation and delve more deeply into his current podcast and other interests, including beekeeping and water color.Now, on to the regular show notes.Jim Stovall has influenced my life (as well as the lives of thousands of journalism students) in multiple ways for almost 35 years. He has worn many hats, including that of a beekeeper and watercolorist, and now in retirement continues to pursue the things that matter most to him. The author of multiple books who helps other authors with their books, he now humbly describes himself by saying, "I work with First United Methodist Church to help produce a daily devotional podcast titled Grace for All." We had a fascinating conversation with Jim that will help us all learn more about living your values to value your life.The resources we discussed include:* Jim’s website* The Writing for the Mass Media textbook* Kill the Quarterback novel* Point Spread novel* The upcoming Saleswise Live* The Go-Giver Success Alliance (check back to see when they’re accepting new applications)* Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In* All of Donn’s books* (Note: Jim has other books he doesn’t even list any of these places. We’ll share some of them in next week’s show.* If you get value from this show and would like to support it, you can Buy Me a Coffee (or several). That helps me keep helping you and others. Thank you to those who already support in this way!You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who needs to hear this.Make sure you don’t miss show notes and upcoming guests. It’s free! 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 tell my clients and students that the primary skill we teach in communications training is adaptability.We had to adapt today. Our intended guest was Lee Zimmerman, who ran into tech issues. We will reschedule Lee for later—you will want to hear his story.Instead, today we dealt with a lesson learned about adaptability, and we also shared some updates and news about the showAmong the items we discussed:* We plan to take the month of August off from doing episodes, and July will be spotty.* We are moving to doing recorded interviews instead of live, and we will keep the show to 30 minutes or under.* We plan to be back in September, or maybe October.* The Go-Giver Success Alliance is currently not accepting new members, but it’s worthwhile keeping the link handy for when they open up again.* We’re offering a new box set of the first two books in The Sparklight Chronicles along with the series prequel and the bonus chapter for each book, just in time for Father’s Day. It includes Brewing Inspiration, The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why, and Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In for a special price. This special edition is only available through our store.* You might be interested in other formats for one or more of my books. You can find them all at DonnKing.com/Books* I mentioned a book that gave me a key concept. It’s called Life 101, and it’s a little hard to get. It doesn’t seem to be available in ebook, for instance, maybe because it came out in 1990 or so. But it gives some interesting insights.Because of the difference in this week’s show, I edited the audio version more heavily than usual to make it tigher. You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who needs to hear this!If you would like to support our work here, you can Buy Me a Coffee. That helps me keep on helping you and othersMake sure you don’t miss upcoming guests or 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

We just had Channie Marston on the show a couple of weeks ago. We didn’t get finished! I expect you received plenty of value, but we wanted to dig more, and so we brought Channie back on to talk more about the flexion points that brought her through her journey. In fact, we talked for slightly over an hour—the longest episode of our “half hour program” yet. The time flew by, and it will be worth your time—it will help you on your own journey! For instance, we talked about the critical junctures in her life as she climbed out of poverty and determined to be self-sufficient and break the generational pattern she could easily have fallen into.We also talked about self-care, and about serving the needs of elders—and most of us will need to do that at some point, and all of us (unless you die young) will experience. So no matter who you are, you will find useful insights and material in this episode.It’s worthwhile watching on video since we share QR codes and such, but you can always pull this into your favorite audio podcatcher and listen in while you do dishes or take that morning walk.Resources we discussed include:* Channie on LinkedIn* Channie’s business on Facebook* Her upcoming website (still under construction at broadcast time)* Email is currently the best way to reach out to Channie: [email protected]* She even shared her phone number—significant since that makes it easier for a portion of the older population: 865-260-9898.* Check out The Go-Giver Success Alliance for the most effective support group for achieving your life goals.* Check out Donn’s books—they make good gifts as well as support you in your own journey.If you get value from this podcast, you may want to support the show with either a one-time contribution or ongoing support. You can easily Buy Me a Coffee.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou know someone who could use this encouragement.Make sure you catch future episodes and keep access to the 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

Our conversation this week featured Vince Vawter, originally from Memphis before working in newspapers in Memphis, Evansville (Indiana), and Knoxville (Tennessee). He worked at every level of a newspaper from obituary writer through managing editor and on to president and publisher. At a time when most would contemplate retirement, he wrote a Newbery Award-winning novel, followed by two more in the trilogy. Stuttering is a central theme in all his books because, as he says, "It has been a central theme in my life." We talked with Vince about his inspiring journey that features insights into working, lifelong learning, facing fears, balancing the things that matter to you while letting go of what other people think, and more.[Editor’s note: yes, that’s the correct way to spell Newbery Award.]The things we talked about include:* Vince’s website, where you can learn a little of his background and see the three books he wrote, as well as a highly informative Q&A.* Vince’s books on Amazon.* The community we mentioned, The Go-Giver Success Alliance, is worth checking into. It helps provide the kind of support that we brought out in the episode, i.e., you need someone to believe in you, and you make a huge difference to others when you believe in them.* Donn’s books, The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why and Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In. Bookmark the page, since the next three books (and, no doubt, others) will show up there as well.* Support the show! You can Buy Me a Coffee one time or ongoing support. That helps me help you and others.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* Facebook* YouTubePlease give us some feedback! Rate the show on any of these platforms, and we would appreciate any reviews.You know someone who needs this encouragement. Share it freely.Make sure you don’t miss upcoming life-changing conversations you can listen to for free! 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 been getting to know Channie Marston, and everywhere I turn in our town I find her involved in either go-getter business development or civic-minded community activities. Plus, I can tell that there is no separation between those two. For her, business IS service. As the founder and owner of C.C. Marston & Company, she says, "I champion with you through the beautiful journey of Elderhood." Through a harsh early experience growing up on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, she learned the value of self-sufficiency (“No one is coming to rescue you”) as well as the value of honoring our elders. There is a silver thread running through her diverse experience (including cybersecurity, gardening, and eldercare). How she got here is a fascinating story that will inspire you in your own journey.Resources we discussed include:* Channie’s email address: [email protected] where you could order a copy of her cookbook even before it shows up on Amazon.* Channie’s website (not live yet, but will be soon, maybe by the time you read this).* SALESWISE LIVE ™ is a two-day sales event where you’ll discover the roadmap and actionable strategies that work today. Claim your spot at this exclusive, luxurious event. They do NOT teach manipulation, but service and genuine connections/relationships.* We talked about multipotentialites and multidisciplinary people. Although the concept had been discussed years earlier, the term “multipotentialite” originated with Emilie Wapnick in 2015.* Check out The Go-Giver Success Alliance, an extremely affordable, highly valuable community of support.* Donn’s books, including both The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why and Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In, available in ebook, paperback, and hard cover from the store of your choice.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 this publication and would like to support it, either through a one-time gift or ongoing, you can Buy Me a Coffee.You know someone who would thank you for connecting them with this.Don’t miss show notes and upcoming guests! 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

We have an incredibly inspiring episode for you today that you won't want to miss! 🌟In this soul-touching conversation, we sat down with the extraordinary Tim Brand, a true embodiment of what it means to be mission-driven. 🙌Throughout his life, Tim has consistently made decisions and taken actions that align with his unwavering values. His dedication to making a positive impact on the world truly inspires me. 🌍❤️In this episode, we dive deep into Tim's journey, exploring how he co-founded the non-profit organization Many Hands for Haiti. 🇭🇹 By leveraging his exceptional business skills to serve the nonprofit sector, Tim has fulfilled a sacred covenant he made with God: to be involved in Haiti for the rest of his life. 🙏But that's not all! Tim also shares intimate stories about his father and the profound life lessons that have shaped him into the remarkable person he is today. 👨‍👦 In his recently published book, Standing on the Shoulders, Tim pays a heartfelt tribute to his dad, revealing how his father's passion for Haiti planted the seeds for his own lifelong commitment to the country. 📚If you're looking for a podcast that will inspire you, challenge you, and remind you of the power of living a purpose-driven life, then this episode with Tim Brand is an absolute must-listen! 🔥Tune in now and prepare to be moved, motivated, and uplifted by Tim's incredible story.Among other resources, we discussed:* Tim’s book, Standing on the Shoulders: A Legacy Story of a Father, a Son, and Life’s Greatest Gifts.* The Many Hands Impact website, a hub for the many projects Tim and associates have created.* Our sponsor, Saleswise Live, is closing in on their unmatchable training coming up. What we didn’t share during the episode: Register by May 12th and your two hotel nights are included (over $600 value)! So if you’re waiting to register, you might want to move ahead with it. Learn more here.* Even if you’re not attending Saleswise Live, you will benefit from The Go-Giver Success Alliance, which had cost close to $100 a month. But Bob Burg and Kathy Tagenel wanted to make it available to more people, and so they have revamped the community so they could offer it at just $37 a month at the time of this posting.* Pick up the book that inspired Saleswise Live, even if you can’t attend the event. Streetwise to Saleswise: Become ObjectionProof™ and Beat the Sales Blues will help you in your work and family life no matter your profession.* For other books that also support you in living your values to value your life, check out Donn’s books in The Sparklight Chronicles series.If you get value from the podcast, consider supporting our work. You can Buy Me a Coffee and receive our gratitude.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookSomeone you know needs to hear this conversation.Make sure you don’t miss show notes and upcoming guests! 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

The world is filled with unexpected connections. My high school English teacher, Mrs. Fortner, helped launch me as a writer, one of the first people to recognize my writing ability and to encourage me to pursue it. Over 50 years later, I came across a Facebook post that led me to a novel written by Mrs. Fortner’s daughter, Nancy Fortner Hall, who still lives in our home town. When she could have just kicked back in retirement, Nancy published her first novel in her late 60s and then kept going for her second. We talked with her about what writing teaches her now and how she took the leap that few ever take and stuck with it to completion—and how she keeps going!Things we talked about in this episode include:* Nancy’s author web site* Nancy’s author Facebook page* Tilted, Nancy’s first novel and the first in the Tilted series* Burn Bright, Nancy’s second novel and the second in the Tilted series.* Donn’s books, including The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why and Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In* Time is running out to get into the life-changing experience of Saleswise Live.* Check out the fostering community that is The Go-Giver Success Alliance.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 receive value from this podcast, you may want to support us one time or ongoing. It’s easy to do. You can Buy Me a Coffee!You know someone who may think it’s too late for them to pursue the things that matter most to them. They need to hear this episode!Make sure you don’t miss upcoming guests. 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 warned you earlier this week. Indeed, I fanboyed over today’s guest. J. Kevin Tumlinson is an award-winning and bestselling novelist, and a prolific podcaster and public speaker. He calls himself a writer of fast-paced, hopeful fiction, and he certainly is that. I find him fascinating for a number of reasons, including that but also because a) he's done a lot of fascinating things, and b) he represents the essence of defining your values and changing things to align with them. We talked about a lot of those things, like the three years he and his wife spent traveling the country living fulltime in a van, his burnout, and his taking a big chance to refocus his life on the essence of who he is. He says, "I’m a writer, first and foremost, and most of all." We probed that process, and we also talked about the mindset that lets you view change not as a threatening thing, but a hopeful thing, especially when you feel like life is not worth living. If you missed the live show, we invite you to come along for the conversation in our video replay or audio podcast.This episode went long, right at an hour, but that’s because I kept finding fascinating things to probe into. I believe you will benefit from listening in on this wide-ranging visit.We talked about a bunch of different resources, really, and among them were:* Kevin’s website that brings together pretty much everything he does.* Kevin’s books, including the next Dan Kotler archeological thriller, The Forgotten Rune set for publication on 15 May 2024.* The Wordslinger podcast (on YouTube)* The Wordslinger podcast (on Substack)* The Writer’s, Ink podcast* Draft2Digital, one of the best ways for independent authors to publish their books wide to all major retailers and libraries* We talked about a book Kevin read called Solve for Happy. I didn’t have this in the email, but I hope to make this resource available in the show notes.* Saleswise Live. At its core, sales is about humans connecting with humans. The sales professionals who are extremely successful in today’s post-pandemic, technology-crazy, economically uncertain world are those who have taken their relationship-building skills to the next level. Saleswise Live, scheduled for June 2-4, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida, is designed to foster the ability to genuinely connect.* Donn’s books, including Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In, the latest in The Sparklight Chronicles.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn Live* YouTube Live* Facebook LiveWe had intended to Livestream to Instagram also, but the host had what we used to call “a short between the earphones” in radio. In other words, I forgot to hit the button. (Unlike the other channels, the Livestream to Instagram has to be started separately just before going live with all the others.) We’ll try again next week.You know someone struggling to deal with change or seeking the courage to follow their heart. Support them by sharing this episode. And wherever you join us, please like and subscribe, and if you’re so inclined, a review would help others find us so we can keep helping you.Don’t miss show notes, and find out about future guests. 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 week we have a solo show to talk about The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why and, especially, Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In. Both books are in The Sparklight Chronicles, and both are business parables that foster the underlying theme of The Alignment Show, i.e., living your values to value your life. Our focus will be on the lessons coming out of the books, designed to support you in your own journey.The resources we mentioned include:* The Go-Givers Success Alliance is the group we frequently mentioned, a supportive community where we help each other in seeking to serve more effectively. The Go-Giver has touched millions of lives with its story about how much more fun, fulfilling, and profitable business — and life — can be when you shift your focus from getting to giving. Bob’s mentorship community helps do that.* Saleswise Live is the two-day transformational sales conference with Bob Burg, Jeff C. West, and Kim Angeli that we mentioned.* The Go-Giver book* Streetwise to Saleswise* Said the Lady with the Blue Hair* Simon Sinek’s book, Start with Why* The Kolbe System* Clifton Strengthsfinder 2.0, the most economical way to discover your strengths.* Peg Duchesne and BANKCode* Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard, the source for metaphor of the elephant and the rider.* My books you can find at your favorite bookstore.* The Way of the Three-Year-Old Why (on sale for just a couple of days!)* Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In* Dunning-Kruger effect* Free first chapter of Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookYou can support our work with ongoing support or just a one-time donation. And thank you!You know someone who could use these life lessons. It’s easy to share this along with a brief note, e.g., “I think you would get value from listening to this.”Make sure you don’t miss show notes or upcoming guests. 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

Brenda Yoho has spent a career in education, working as a teacher in grade K-5, an assistant principal, an elementary principal, and a middle school principle before reaching district level leadership as Director of Educational Support Services. Along the way she has battled Crohn's Disease, survived a lightning strike, overcome breast cancer, and come back from a near-fatal car accident. She recently published a book entitled Lead with Two Rules, and we talked with her about how those two rules have changed lives for hundreds of teachers and thousands of students.Among the resources we talked about:* Brenda talked about the impact the murder of Jessica Roach had on her and her community. Here is a story about the crime and its aftermath.* Brenda has had a close relationship with researcher and bullying expert Dorothy Espelage. Her books include Bullying Prevention and Intervention: Realistic Strategies for Schools, Handbook of Classroom Management, and Feeling Safe in School: Bullying and Violence Prevention Around the World.* Brenda’s book is Lead with Two Rules: Feeling Good & Feeling Safe. It not only distills her insights but also includes dozens of pointers to resources for implementing them.* Donn’s newest book in The Sparklight Chronicles is Medium Well: The Journey from Believing to Believing In. Learn about all his books at Books2Read.com/DonnKing.You can catch video replays at the following links, or hear audio replays at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon podcasts, and Substack.* LinkedIn* YouTube* FacebookSomeone you know needs this inspiration for identifying core values and persisting through challenges.Make sure you never miss show notes and upcoming guests. 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