A LOT with Audra

Are your goals inspiring you—or overwhelming you? Ever feel like your relationship with goals is more “complicated” than “motivating”? You’re not alone. Today, I’m sharing what I’ve learned about making progress when big ambitions feel heavy, and how the power of “quarter turns”—small, consistent tweaks—can transform your results in work, health, and life. If you’re ready to end the year strong without burning out, let’s talk about how to make your goals work for you, one simple step at a time.

Highlights

• Reflections from the Global Leadership Summit and insights from John Acuff’s “All It Takes is a Goal”
• Real talk: how people describe their relationship with goals (spoiler: it’s not always positive)
• The concept of “quarter turns” and why small changes matter more than big overhauls
• Personal stories about family routines, health, and building better habits
• The difference between goals and results—and why focusing on effort is the real game-changer
• Practical tweaks for making progress, even when life feels chaotic
• Encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed as the year wraps up

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & gratitude

00:23 – Why talk about goals? Global Leadership Summit recap

01:15 – Partnering with the Global Leadership Summit & John Acuff’s influence

01:51 – Community impact and the GLS Next Leader program

02:42 – Group discussion: “Describe your relationship with goals in one word”

03:12 – Why goals feel heavy (and why that’s normal)

03:57 – The real challenge: systems behind the goals

04:22 – Dreaming vs. executing on goals

04:54 – What I’m learning: the power of “quarter turns”

05:20 – The “quarter turn” metaphor from cycling and life

06:12 – How small steps add up (and why I used to resist them)

06:43 – Learning from my team: consistency over perfection

07:10 – Family routines: the “nightly three” for smoother evenings

08:00 – Health changes: using a blood test to make better choices

09:00 – The surprising impact of one small dietary tweak

10:00 – Focusing on effort, not just results

11:00 – Separating goals from results: a writing example

12:00 – Why your goals should be in your control

13:00 – Final encouragement: finish the year with small, meaningful steps

14:00 – Wrap up & see you next week

Resources

• Global Leadership Summit
• John Acuff, All It Takes is a Goal
• Substack (for building a writing habit)

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Are you making time for what matters most, or are you letting the little things crowd out your biggest priorities? Discover how designing your ideal week can transform your productivity, boundaries, and sense of fulfillment. Today, I’m sharing practical strategies and personal stories to help you create a weekly schedule that actually works for your real life, not just your dream life. In this episode I think you’ll find actionable tips to reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters. And be sure to get my ideal week template in the resources below!

Highlights

• The power of an “ideal week” and why it’s a game-changer for women leaders and entrepreneurs
• How to use the “big rocks” concept to prioritize what matters most
• Balancing external requests with your own goals and boundaries
• Real-life examples of flexible scheduling (and why perfection isn’t the goal)
• Step-by-step ideas for building your own ideal week, from high-level blocks to daily routines
• Tips for managing the “little rocks” and gamifying your weekly to-do list
• Encouragement to experiment, adapt, and share your own ideal week

Chapters

[0:00] Welcome & Gratitude

[0:48] Introduction to The Thread and Supporting Women Leaders

[1:40] High Performance Habits Webinar Recap

[1:44] The Ideal Weekly Schedule: What Is It?

[2:10] My Experience with Ideal Weeks

[2:33] Creating Your Own Ideal Week

[3:28] Purpose of an Ideal Week

[5:00] The Big Rocks Concept

[6:23] Balancing Requests and Priorities

[7:03] Handling External Requests

[7:46] Flexibility in Ideal Weeks

[9:19] Starting with Big Rocks

[11:53] Medium Rocks and Morning Routine

[12:55] Managing Little Rocks

[14:04] Conclusion and Call to Action

Resources Mentioned

• Ideal Week Template - I put this together just for you to download: http://eepurl.com/jqro9E
• Full Focus Planner – Tool for mapping your ideal week: fullfocus.co/planner

Have you created your ideal week? Do you have tips or questions? I’d love to hear from you—let’s keep the conversation going!

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Are you feeling overwhelmed as the seasons change and the holidays approach? What if the key to more joy and presence is letting go, not adding more? Today, I’ll share my personal journey of releasing self-imposed timelines, perfectionism, and traditions that no longer serve my family. Join me as I reflect on the power of loosening our grip on plans, expectations, and even beloved rituals to make space for what truly matters.

Highlights

• The surprising freedom in letting go of self-imposed timelines
• Why the “perfect plan” can hold us back from real experiences
• How seeking validation from others limits our creativity
• Recognizing and breaking habits that don’t serve us (hello, revenge bedtime!)
• Embracing curiosity over rigid expectations
• Re-evaluating family traditions to create more meaningful moments
• Practical questions to help you decide what to release this season

Chapters

00:00 — Welcome and Oregon road trip reflections

00:53 — The theme: Letting go for a less overwhelming season

01:56 — #1: Releasing self-imposed timelines

05:26 — #2: Letting go of the perfect plan

08:51 — #3: Releasing the need for validation

10:47 — #4: Examining habits that don’t serve us

13:28 — #5: Loosening expectations and embracing curiosity

15:18 — #6: Rethinking traditions for a more joyful holiday

19:51 — Recap and encouragement to let go

21:15 — Closing thoughts and listener invitation

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Are you exactly where you want to be, or does life feel like a map with a big red “You Are Here” dot and no clear path forward? Let’s pause together, take stock of our current “here,” and explore how to move forward with curiosity, honesty, and a little more joy. Today, I’m sharing four practical steps to reflect on where you are, embrace your insecurities, and enjoy the ride, even when the road is messy. Plus, I’ll share a powerful research-backed mindset shift and a favorite piece of advice from my dad.

Highlights

• 
  The power of acknowledging your current “here” without blame or victimhood
• Four steps to reflect on your life’s current season
• How insecurities shape our self-perception (and what to do about them)
• A story about family, foreheads, and embracing what you can’t change
• The surprising research on curiosity vs. positive self-talk for success
• Why asking “Will I?” is more powerful than saying “I will”
• The importance of enjoying the process, not just chasing goals
• A personal update: celebrating 15 years of marriage and entering a new decade

Chapters

00:24 – The “You Are Here” map and life’s journey

00:56 – Accepting your current place—pride, regret, and questions

01:50 – Setting aside victim stories and owning your starting point

02:47 – Four steps to reflect on where you are

03:22 – Step 1: What’s good, what’s messy, what brings joy?

04:43 – Step 2: Insecurities—stories from childhood and family

07:17 – Step 3: Curiosity and the “Will I?” mindset (research highlight)

09:51 – Step 4: Enjoying the ride and embracing the process

12:08 – Final encouragement and closing thoughts

Resources Mentioned

• 
  Beginner’s Pluck by Liz Bohannon
  https://www.lizbohannon.co/book
• Kansas Leadership Center
  https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/
  
  

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

What does it really take to build a thriving, intentional community and keep it going for five years? Discover the stories, lessons, and laughter that have shaped our journey as we celebrate a major milestone for The Thread. From early morning workshops in a creaky old building to heartfelt moments of growth, family, and friendship, this episode is a celebration of resilience, purpose, and the power of showing up for each other. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to our community, you’ll find inspiration in the memories, challenges, and wins we share.

Highlights

• 
  Celebrating five years in business—why this milestone matters for small businesses
• The origin story: early workshops, intentional setups, and the importance of energy
• How our team grew from two to three, and the impact of doing life together
• Family memories: Thread family nights, celebrations, and supporting each other through life’s seasons
• The power of community: alumna workshops, cohort connections, and the magic of culmination days
• Lessons learned: trusting the process, providing space, and letting values guide the way
• The importance of planting seeds and building community over time
• Reflections on supporting women, families, and each other through challenges and growth

Chapters

• 
  00:00 – Welcome & Five-Year Celebration
• 00:44 – Why Surviving Five Years Matters
• 01:19 – Team Introductions & Early Memories
• 02:18 – Cohort One: Setting the Foundation
• 05:10 – Growing the Team & Doing Life Together
• 07:37 – Family, Friendship, and Community
• 12:15 – Best of the Last Five Years: Team Reflections
• 20:45 – Community Highlights: Workshops & Alumna Connections
• 27:43 – Culmination Days & Success Stories
• 34:22 – Opening the Kansas City Chapter
• 37:13 – Serving Others: Giving Back as a Community
• 38:44 – Lessons Learned: Intention, Space, and Trusting the Process
• 43:22 – Looking Ahead: Planting Seeds & The Next Five Years
• 46:27 – Gratitude & Closing Thoughts

Resources Mentioned

• 
  US Bureau of Labor Statistics – Small Business Survival
• Tanganyika Wildlife Park
• Elderslie Farm
• ICT SOS
• Habitat for Humanity
  
  

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Are you curious about what truly drives your energy and decision-making? Ever wondered if there’s a tool that can help you understand yourself—and your team—on a deeper level? Let’s explore the world of Human Design, a practical yet mystical framework that’s transforming how we see ourselves and work together.

Today, the team at The Thread is joined by Ashley Watkins, a certified coach and educator, who shares her journey from the classroom to coaching, and how Human Design became a pivotal tool in her transformation. We break down the “big three” of Human Design—Type, Strategy, and Authority—and discuss how understanding these can help you live in alignment, make better decisions, and thrive both personally and professionally. You’ll also hear candid reflections from our team as we compare Human Design to other assessments and talk about what it means to trust your inner authority.

Highlights

• 
  Discovering Human Design: Ashley’s personal story and what drew her to this tool
• The “Big Three” in Human Design: Type, Strategy, and Authority explained in simple terms
• How Human Design differs from other personality assessments
• Real-life examples of living in (and out of) alignment with your type
• Team dynamics: What happened when we ran our Human Design charts together
• Practical tips for using Human Design in your life and work
• Where to take your own Human Design assessment
• Resources for going deeper and connecting with Ashley

Chapters

00:24 — Welcome & Introduction

01:33 — Childhood quizzes and the appeal of personality tests

01:55 — Introducing Ashley Watkins

02:45 — Ashley’s journey: From teaching to coaching

02:46 — Discovering Human Design

07:01 — Understanding Human Design Types

17:46 — The Big Three: Type, Strategy, Authority

22:37 — Team reflections and Human Design in practice

37:43 — Conclusion & Further Resources

Resources Mentioned

• 
  Human Design Blueprint by Erin Claire Jones and Free Chart Generator
  humandesignblueprint.com
• Ashley Watkins Coaching
  ashleywatkinscoaching.com
• True Compass Assessment by Kristi Windish
  Episode 16
  
  

If you’re ready to learn more about your own Human Design, check out the resources above, and don’t forget to connect with Ashley for coaching or workshops. Thanks for listening and supporting the show!

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Are you ready to discover what truly drives your thoughts, actions, and relationships? The Enneagram isn’t just another personality test—it’s a powerful tool for self-awareness and growth that can help you break free from old patterns and step into your most authentic self.

We are joined today by Mandy Shoemaker, an ICF Certified Personal Development Coach and Enneagram practitioner. Together, we explore the origins and history of the Enneagram, what makes it different from other personality frameworks, and how understanding your type can unlock new levels of personal and professional growth.

We share our own journeys with the Enneagram, including the “aha” moments and challenges that come with discovering your core motivations and defense mechanisms. Mandy breaks down the nine Enneagram types, explains the importance of knowing your vice and virtue, and offers practical advice for using the Enneagram as a filter for decision-making and self-improvement.

Whether you’re brand new to the Enneagram or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find insights and stories to help you on your path to greater self-understanding. Plus, Mandy shares tips on finding a reliable Enneagram assessment and how working with a coach can accelerate your growth.

Highlights:

• What the Enneagram is and how it differs from other personality tools
• The history and evolution of the Enneagram
• How to identify your type and why self-typing matters
• The nine Enneagram types explained
• Understanding your vice and virtue for personal growth
• Real-life examples of how the Enneagram can transform relationships and work
• The value of professional Enneagram assessments and coaching

Chapters & Timestamps:

01:08 — Introduction to Mandy Shoemaker

01:56 — Welcome and personal experience with Enneagram

08:50 — Explaining what the Enneagram is

31:32 — Historical background of the Enneagram

32:25 — Personal journey with Enneagram

33:16 — Understanding defense mechanisms through Enneagram

33:16 — Learning about different Enneagram types

34:49 — Benefits of professional Enneagram assessment

38:44 — Using Enneagram as a tool for growth

Resources:

• “The Road Back to You” by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile
• IEQ9, Compass, and Ready Enneagram assessments
• Mandy Shoemaker’s website: mypurposebuiltlife.com

Connect with Mandy for a mini Enneagram exploration or personal development coaching, and start your journey toward greater self-awareness and fulfillment.

Tune in and discover how the Enneagram can become your favorite tool for growth!

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

What if the only thing standing between you and unshakable confidence is the way you talk to yourself? Explore the real meaning of confidence, why self-trust matters more than you think, and how small mindset shifts can transform your life and career. Join the conversation with therapist and confidence expert Emily Stevens as we unpack practical strategies, personal stories, and actionable exercises to help you own your strengths and silence your inner critic.

Highlights

• 
  The surprising research behind confidence and connections for women in leadership
• Emily Stevens’ journey from radio DJ to confidence coach
• The difference between confidence and self-esteem—and why it matters
• The “Circle of Confidence” exercise for self-discovery
• How to build self-trust and resilience in the face of setbacks
• The power of self-compassion and talking to yourself out loud
• Why “fake it till you make it” isn’t enough—and what to do instead
• Actionable tips for defining and growing your own confidence

Chapters

00:00 — Welcome and introduction to confidence

00:45 — Meet Emily Stevens: therapist, speaker, and confidence expert

01:48 — Emily’s journey: from radio DJ to therapist

07:05 — Defining confidence and self-esteem

12:45 — The Circle of Confidence exercise

17:08 — The impact of confidence on career, relationships, and decision-making

21:14 — Building self-trust and focusing on your circle of control

24:25 — Where to start if you lack confidence: self-compassion and affirmations

27:48 — Practical tips for self-kindness and positive self-talk

31:26 — “Fake it till you make it” vs. “Face it till you make it”

37:05 — Final takeaways and defining confidence for yourself

41:02 — Where to find Emily Stevens online

Resources Mentioned

• 
  The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
• Emily Stevens’ website: laidbackachievers.com
• Emily Stevens on social media: @withemilystevens

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

What if the one skill you’ve overlooked is actually the key to unlocking your greatest impact? Emotional intelligence isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the foundation for authentic leadership, meaningful relationships, and personal growth. Today, I’m joined by Nikki Beyrle, a powerhouse HR executive and educator, to explore how understanding and building your EQ can transform your career, your connections, and your confidence. We share real stories, practical tools, and the mindset shifts that make emotional intelligence a true power skill.

Highlights

• The moment I realized emotional intelligence was a skill I could build—and why it changed everything
• Nikki’s journey from Pizza Hut to Chief HR Officer, and how people skills shaped her career
• The four quadrants of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management
• Practical exercises for increasing self-awareness (including the “two sides of the coin” method)
• How to respond instead of react in high-stress situations
• The power of apology and repair in relationships
• Social awareness: reading the room and raising adaptable, curious kids
• Building trust and navigating conflict as a leader
• Daily practices to strengthen your EQ

Chapters

00:13 – Discovering Emotional Intelligence

01:30 – Meet Nikki Beyrle

02:53 – The Journey of The Thread

04:41 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence

12:36 – Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence

19:09 – Building Whole-Brain Teams

19:43 – Self-Management: Responding vs. Reacting

23:00 – The Power of Apology and Repair

26:52 – Social Awareness: Reading the Room

31:35 – Relationship Management: Building Trust and Navigating Conflict

34:27 – Daily EQ Practices & Closing

Resources Mentioned

• TalentSmart’s Emotional Intelligence Assessment
• Kansas Leadership Center
• Connect with Nikki Beyrle on LinkedIn

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

Ever struggle with promoting your business due to self-doubt or the fear of being too showy? You're not alone. Today I’m going to share an invaluable piece of advice that I got from a fellow entrepreneur: make it about the work, not about you. By focusing on who you are serving and the positive impact your business can make, you can push through feelings of insecurity and confidently promote your projects. Join me as I recount my own journey and offer practical tips on shifting your mindset and embracing your value. Whether you're launching a new venture or growing an existing one, this episode is for you.

00:36 The Coffee Meeting That Changed Everything

01:39 Struggles with Self-Promotion

02:55 The Game-Changing Advice

03:51 Normalizing Vulnerability

06:07 Making It About the Work

07:58 Picturing the End Result

10:41 Consistency is Key

12:19 Encouragement and Conclusion

Resources:

Want to learn more?

The Thread

Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.

Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.