24 Carat Conversations

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Ashton Ross, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, to talk about attachment styles. If you’re new to the concept, attachment styles shape the way we connect, communicate, and relate to others—whether in friendships, romantic relationships, or even in the workplace. Ashton provides a powerful introduction to the different types of attachment styles, and how they influence our relationships and offers insights on understanding and transforming these patterns.

Ashton brings a wealth of expertise in helping individuals and couples find inner peace, freedom, and deeper connection. With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ashton specializes in working with people who’ve experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and issues with self-esteem or perfectionism. She focuses on often-overlooked forms of trauma, including relational and attachment trauma, childhood emotional neglect, and narcissistic abuse. Ashton also works with couples stuck in negative cycles, helping them find healthier ways to communicate and connect.

To learn more about Ashton, visit [her profile on Full Circle Counseling](https://fullcirclecounselingtn.org/counselors/ashton_ross.php) or [her Psychology Today profile](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ashton-ross-brentwood-tn/1124826). You can reach her directly at 615-208-2230 or at [email protected]. Join us for this inspiring episode on the power of understanding attachment styles and how it can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships!

 

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In this episode, Heather and I dive into a candid conversation about how performance and perfectionism, often rooted in trauma, shaped our lives and careers. While these traits brought us significant success, they also created unhealthy patterns that we had to confront. 

Heather, a Certified Master Coach for Kingdom entrepreneurs, shares her insights on how to serve others through your gifts and passions while making a lot of money doing it. We also explore the idea that money isn't inherently evil—it simply magnifies what's in your heart, and if you've got a heart for Jesus, it can be a powerful tool for good.

 

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Hustle Culture is a buzzword that's turned into a lifestyle for a lot of people. I had an insightful chat with Ann Eileen, and she really gets this topic because it's something she’s experienced firsthand. 

While hustling can sometimes seem like the only way to succeed, it's important to remember that it has its downsides. Statistics show that 83% of workers in the U.S. suffer from work-related stress, and 25% of them say their job is the primary stressor in their lives. Additionally, those who work more than 55 hours a week have a 33% higher risk of stroke and a 13% higher risk of heart disease compared to those working standard hours. So, while the grind might seem necessary, it's crucial to consider the toll it takes on our health and well-being.

 

Join us as we learn more about Ann Eileens story..

After graduating from The Ohio State University in 1993 with a degree in Journalism, I started my career in retail sales, working as a sales manager in what is now Macy’s. It was a job I took hoping to learn in real time, why people buy what they buy. 

A well trained journalist, I wanted to learn their stories. 

I learned how to sell and how to manage people, and what shoes were best for long hours on my feet. Alas, retail is a bit of a grind. Don’t get me wrong, I did hear some stories, but I wanted more. 

So, in 1995, after one too many nights, weekends, and holiday return seasons in Retail, I wrote up a resume, worked my limited network, and landed a job at Procter & Gamble in the Market Insights organization. 

It was during my 12 years at P&G that I learned about understanding consumer beliefs and behavior, marketing, product development, and innovation. I learned how to manage up and down and across massive, complex corporate hierarchies. I touched nearly every business unit and region as I moved up and across the organization, from Fabric & Home Care, to Hair Care, Corporate Design, and Global Volume Forecasting and Market Mix Modeling - a discipline we re-named as “Integrated Business Optimization” during my tenure. 

But, more important than any product or team I worked on while at P&G, I learned how to lead with my faith; I fell in love with Jesus and His steady, constant presence, even in the details of my work; and I learned that, driven by my faith, I’m a risk taker and an entrepreneur. 

Then, in 2007, I heard the Lord was calling me to step off the ladder and into something new.

I joined a small, but quickly growing, forward-thinking company providing market research and innovation services to companies like Procter. I learned how to create and sell meaningful projects that would enable clients to learn and grow their businesses. I learned how to develop and nurture relationships with clients who had roles like the ones I’d held at P&G. I learned the ins and outs of running a small business. 

And then I got fired.

Financial strain, and a mismatch between me and the future direction of the business fast tracked my move to the next adventure. 

A blessing in disguise.

Energized rather than discouraged, I seized the opportunity of a small severance package that bought me just enough time to try something new.

Along with a business partner, I co founded The Garage Group in 2011. Inspired by small-company, entrepreneurial spirit and practice, TGG works with large companies to enable them to solve big challenges with innovative new approaches, borrowed and adapted from the world of startups. TGG grew rapidly and my role ebbed and flowed as the business required - from sales, to project design and delivery, to client relationship development, to content and capability creation, to industry leadership, staff development, creating and shepherding culture, finances, and every other aspect of running a small business. 

I learned a lot from our successes, but even more from our mistakes. 

In 2019, just before the COVID pandemic hit, my co founder and I stepped into new roles while we brought in a new CEO to take us to the next level. Within a year, I’d worked myself out of my role, as we sold the business to the next generation of folks from our team. 

I moved into what I thought would be a short sabbatical.

That sabbatical turned into almost two years of rest and reassessment. Lots of writing and dreaming and napping and quieting myself and my own dreams long enough to hear the Lord wooing me into something new.

Launching into this new season of coaching, consulting, community building, writing, podcast hosting, and speaking is a whole new adventure. Walking even more closely with the Lord, I’m ready and willing to go where He leads.

I live in my hometown of Cincinnati, OH with my husband Rich and our people-loving Bernese Mountain Dog, Faith. We’re enjoying the empty nest and the beautiful stage of parenting young adult children. Our latest side hustle venture is short term rental properties, which have proven to be a great creative outlet, and have given us a beautiful way to welcome folks to our fine city. We love to travel, read, and fan flames of revival in Cincinnati through prayer, worship, and fellowship with others. 

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I had an amazing conversation with Heather on this episode. In February, we had the privilege of speaking to a group of women about finding their identity in Christ. It was a wonderful experience, and I wanted to bring Heather on the podcast to delve deeper into her testimony. She shared her struggle with an eating disorder and how God transformed her life.

Heather and her husband Vince Murdock founded Rise and Rejoice Ministries. Their mission is to raise up a generation of devoted disciples and disciple-makers of Christ through Kingdom discipleship, Spirit-filled worship, and compassionate outreach. They help people heal and overcome obstacles through the power of the Gospel, equipping and empowering believers to discover and live out their Kingdom identity and purpose.

This conversation was truly inspiring. Heather's passion for helping women see their lives transformed is incredibly motivating.

 

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Welcome to another episode of 24 Carat Conversations! Today, we had the privilege of sitting down with Jodeen Barba, the CEO of The Warrior Collective, to explore the captivating realms of Soulful Leadership and Burnout Recovery, particularly aimed at empowering women.

In this episode, Jodeen took us on a journey through her own personal story, delving into the depths of her struggles with health issues and the tumultuous challenges her marriage faced during a difficult season. But amidst the trials and tribulations, Jodeen's story is one of resilience, faith, and the miraculous restoration of what seemed impossible.

Through her candid and heartfelt sharing, Jodeen reminded us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope for transformation and renewal. Her insights into the power of faith and the importance of leaning on a supportive community left us feeling inspired and uplifted.

So, grab your favorite cup of coffee, sit back, and join us as we dive into this thought-provoking conversation with Jodeen Barba. You won't want to miss a single moment of this enlightening episode!

 

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     Welcome back, everyone, to another inspiring episode of 24 Carat Conversations. I'm thrilled to have you join us today as we delve into a deeply meaningful topic with our special guest, Jenni Rae Oates. 

Today's episode is all about navigating grief and finding joy amidst life's challenges. Jenni Rae has a remarkable story to share, one filled with resilience, perseverance, and ultimately, triumph. 

Join us as we explore Jenni Rae's journey and discover the invaluable insights she's gained along the way. Let's dive in and uncover the power of resilience and the beauty of finding joy even amid adversity.

 

Here is a bit about our guest:

Jenni Rae is a Business & Peak Performance coach, speaker, and author with 20 years of experience building businesses and helping business owners become a better version of themselves. Her zone of genius is in helping the owner run at optimal levels so that their health, relationships, and businesses don’t suffer burnout or breakdown. She specializes in emotional intelligence & stress resilience, mindset mastery, and showing entrepreneurs and business owners how to recalibrate and create both a thriving business AND connected relationships. 

 

She founded Do. WIT Coaching is a company on a mission to create 1 Million 2.0 CEOs™ - individuals committed to Do. What It Takes to lead their family, business & relationships to deeper faith, greater impact, and higher levels of abundance by becoming the next-level version of themselves.

 

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A few years ago, we found ourselves in a situation where God's answer was a resounding no. At the time, it was tough to comprehend, and honestly, it left us feeling confused and maybe a bit disheartened. But, as we revisit that season today, we want to share how God's nos can lead to something beautiful and how His plan, even when it seems unclear, is always perfect.

We hope that this episode encourages you!

 

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Introduction:

- Who loves networking? The idea of going to a meeting where you don't know anyone, introducing yourself, and then having to mingle and make conversation can be quite intimidating. Honestly, it used to terrify me.

 

Segment 1: Embracing Discomfort

- Being uncomfortable is an essential part of personal growth. Networking forces you out of your comfort zone, pushing you to learn, adapt, and evolve.

- Facing the fear of the unknown can lead to personal development and self-discovery.

 

Segment 2: Health Benefits of Networking

- Did you know that networking is actually good for your health? Building connections and forming relationships can reduce stress and boost overall well-being.

- Social interaction and a strong support network have been linked to improved mental and emotional health.

 

Segment 3: Refining Communication Skills

- Networking experiences refine your speaking and communication skills. You learn to convey your ideas clearly and concisely, a valuable skill in any aspect of life.

- Effective communication is key to building strong relationships and succeeding in both personal and professional spheres.

 

Segment 4: Finding Motivation

- Networking can be a great source of motivation. Interacting with people who share your interests and goals can reignite your passion and drive.

- Surrounding yourself with motivated individuals can push you to strive for greater achievements.

 

Conclusion:

- If you haven't ventured into networking yet, it's time to give it a try! You may discover that it provides the boost you need to get creative, see new perspectives, and meet some wonderful like-minded people.

• Embrace the discomfort, reap the health benefits, refine your skills, and find the motivation to achieve your goals through the power of networking.

Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode and if you would be so kind to also give me a review!

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Are you finding it a challenge to establish healthy boundaries within your family dynamics? If so, our latest episode featuring the insightful Lauren Rainey Tenny is a must-listen! Tune in as we delve into the art of setting boundaries, uncovering strategies to initiate this transformative practice in your life.

In this engaging conversation, we explore the essence of healthy boundaries and how they pave the way for harmonious relationships. If you've been grappling with drawing the line, Lauren offers invaluable insights to guide you through the process. We dive into the origins of our boundaries, often rooted in our personal struggles and insecurities, shedding light on the interplay between inner growth and setting boundaries.

So, whether you're sipping your morning coffee or winding down in the evening, join us for this enlightening discussion. Discover the power of embracing boundaries as a tool for greater self-awareness and balanced connections. Tune in now and embark on a journey toward healthier relationships and personal empowerment. 🌟🔊

 

 

Here is a little bit about our guest Lauren Rainey Tenney

Lauren Tenney is a writer, speaker, and mentor from Franklin, TN. She is passionate about helping others see and experience a life of peace and freedom. Armed with tools she has used herself, she has devoted her time and energy to providing 1-on-1 mentor sessions where she takes you on the ultimate personal development journey filled with real talk and practical tools so you can push through stale paradigms to develop a stronger sense of self, genuine empathy, and deeper faith. If you’re ready to make the shift from your old self and start thriving — maybe for the first time ever — today,  find her on Instagram LaurenRaineyTenney.

 

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- Welcome to a very special episode of 24 Carat Conversations! I'm thrilled to be celebrating my 50th Birthday today, which some friends call my Jubilee or Golden Birthday. As this podcast is all about genuine and authentic conversations, it felt only fitting to get candid with you on this milestone occasion. - In today's episode, I'll be sharing some of my personal hardships, valuable life lessons, and the profound realization that God's plans often diverge from my own, yet they consistently exceed my wildest imagination.

- Life has presented its fair share of hardships, and I've navigated various challenges that have shaped who I am today. - Sharing these experiences allows us to connect deeper, as we all face trials and tribulations along our journeys. - By embracing and acknowledging hardships, we learn valuable lessons and grow in strength and resilience.

- Throughout my life, I've encountered pivotal moments that brought valuable insights and wisdom. - I'll be sharing some of these life lessons, hoping that they resonate with and inspire you on your own journey. - Personal growth is a continuous process, and I'm grateful for the opportunities to evolve and become a better version of myself.

- Life often takes unexpected turns, and I've come to understand that my plans aren't always aligned with God's greater purpose. - Surrendering to divine plans can be challenging, but it has led me to experiences and opportunities far beyond my imagination. - I'll explore the beauty of trusting in a higher power and how it has enriched my life in ways I could have never foreseen.

• As I celebrate my 50th Birthday and my "Jubilee" on 24 Carat Conversations, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for being part of this journey. - Life's hardships have molded me, and sharing my candid experiences is an honor, hoping they bring comfort and encouragement to listeners. - Embracing the unexpected and trusting in God's plans has been a transformative and awe-inspiring revelation. - Remember, life's golden moments are not just milestones but opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and embracing the beauty of the unknown.
• - Thank you for joining me on this special episode of 24 Carat Conversations! - Stay tuned for genuine conversations, valuable insights, and empowering stories. - As we continue this journey together, may we find solace in the shared human experience and the wonders life has in store for us.

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