Apogee Strong

Cary Williams' journey is a true testament to resilience and the power of perseverance. She’s not just an entrepreneur and the founder of Tussle Gear—she’s someone who has weathered the highs and lows of life and learned the most valuable lessons during the most challenging times. For Cary, success isn’t just about hitting milestones—it’s about how you rise when things go wrong, how you keep moving forward no matter the hurdles in your path.

A pivotal moment from Cary’s childhood shaped who she is today. At just eight years old, she wanted to walk to the store alone but was terrified of a group of girls in her neighborhood who often picked on her. Instead of stepping in to protect her, her dad handed her a stick and told her, “You’ve got this. Take control.” Though it seemed simple at the time, this small but powerful gesture taught Cary that facing her fears was a decision she had to make herself. It was the beginning of her journey toward independence and strength, a foundation that would carry her through life’s challenges.

Quotes:

● "The only way through fear is to face it head-on." – Cary Williams

● "It’s not about waiting for things to get easier, it’s about deciding you’re going to keep going, no matter what." – Cary Williams

● "I’ve learned that failure isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of something new." – Cary Williams

Takeaways:

● Fear doesn’t go away on its own. The only way through it is to face it and keep moving forward.

● Life’s challenges don’t define you. It’s your response to them that shapes who you become.

● There’s power in failure—it’s where you learn the most and find your true strength.

Conclusion:

Cary’s story teaches us that success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about how we respond to it. By facing fears, overcoming setbacks, and continuing to push forward, we can take control of our lives and create something meaningful. Cary’s journey shows that no matter what life throws at you, you have the strength to rise, rebuild, and make the life you want. With courage and determination, we can all rewrite our stories.

Some people carry the weight of their past like an anchor, while others use it as fuel. It’s wild how a single comment, a single failure, can echo for years—shaping the way you see yourself, even if it was never true to begin with. But then there are those moments when everything snaps into focus, and instead of running from the pain, you turn and face it. That’s when things start to shift. Sometimes the very thing you thought would break you is what ends up unlocking everything.

Stephen Scoggins went from sleeping in a car to running a nine-figure business, but his real story is about identity—not income. He shares how breaking free from limiting beliefs and rewriting internal narratives changed everything. Instead of chasing success for validation, he started building from purpose and integrity. His message is clear: your past doesn’t define your future—your choices do. Growth starts the moment you stop pretending and decide to own who you really are. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

• “Your identity is simply an evolution of your choices. Consistently choosing the healthy version of yourself will consistently shape a healthy version of your identity.” – Stephen Scoggins
• “I believe every person on this planet has a unique calling—something only they can do or share in a way that is uniquely theirs.” – Stephen Scoggins
• “There is no such thing as failure. You either win or you learn, and if you learn, it's going to take you towards winning.” – Stephen Scoggins

Takeaways:

• Write down the top 5 skills you're naturally good at, then research industries or careers that match those strengths.
• Start each morning with 30 minutes of gratitude, prayer, and self-reflection - create a personal mantra that reinforces your worth.
• Challenge the limiting beliefs spoken over you by identifying lies you've internalized and replacing them with empowering truths about your potential.
• Practice viewing "failures" as learning opportunities by objectively documenting lessons from setbacks and using them to improve future choices.
• Choose one personal development area each week to focus on deeply, seeking mentors or resources that can help you grow in that specific domain.

Conclusion:

Success often has less to do with outside conditions and more to do with how someone chooses to respond to them. Those who stay open to learning, ask for guidance, and keep building a clear sense of who they are, tend to move forward, even through setbacks. It's not about avoiding failure but growing through it. Over time, this mindset shapes both confidence and results. Real progress starts with deciding to keep going, no matter what.

Ever feel like your inner voice is your biggest critic? Like you're trapped in your own thoughts, repeating stories of self-doubt, fear, and uncertainty? You’re not alone—and the good news is, there’s a way out.

In this energizing and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Kimberly Kesting, mindset coach and trainer with Enlifted, to uncover how the words we speak—and think—shape our reality. From breaking free of the victim mindset to using "language magic" to rewire your brain, Kimberly guides you through real, practical steps to shift your story and reclaim your confidence. Her warmth, relatability, and deep understanding of how young women think make her the perfect guide for anyone ready to rewrite the narrative in their head.

This is more than a conversation—it's a language game, a mindset reset, and a heart-to-heart reminder that you already have the power to cast your own spell of confidence, clarity, and change.

Quotes:

● “The way we talk to ourselves directly shapes our mindset and emotional responses.” – Kimberly Kesting

● “We are not victims of our circumstances; we are the creators of our stories.” – Kimberly Kesting

● “Our words have the power to create magic or reinforce limits—choose them wisely.” – Kimberly Kesting

Takeaways:

● Pay attention to how you talk to yourself. The words you use shape how you feel.

● Shift your mindset. Instead of seeing yourself as a victim, think of yourself as someone who can make things better.

● Focus on solutions. Change the way you speak so that it helps you find answers to problems.

● Slow down when you feel stressed. Take a deep breath, think things through, and focus on what you can control.

● Reframe your thoughts. Use words that reflect your strengths and what you can achieve.

Conclusion:

Kimberly’s message is clear: the stories we tell ourselves matter. By changing the way we think and speak, we can face challenges with confidence and take control of our lives. Her approach isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about taking action and becoming the best version of ourselves. With the right mindset, we can all rewrite our stories and achieve the things we’ve always wanted.

Many young people face challenges they don’t always understand, such as stress, self-doubt, or confusion about the future. These struggles can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to control you. The key is realizing that the way you talk to yourself can make a huge difference. It’s not about pretending everything is okay, but taking charge of your thoughts and working through problems.

Garrett Powell, a golf professional and entrepreneur, shares his story of learning to balance work, family, and personal growth. He talks about how his mindset shifted when he decided to focus on effort over outcome, the importance of surrounding himself with the right people, and his deep love for his family. As he prepares for fatherhood, Garrett reflects on what truly matters and how he wants to shape his life and leadership.

Matt Beaudreau also adds insight, pointing out that “you’ll never be criticized by someone doing more than you” and that criticism often comes from those who are doing less. This is a reminder to focus on what you’re doing, not the negative opinions around you.

Quotes:

• “The way we talk to ourselves directly shapes our mindset and emotional responses.” – Garrett Powell

• “Effort is more important than outcome. If you focus on that, the rest will follow.” – Garrett Powell
• “Time is the most precious resource, and you can't get it back once it’s gone.” – Garrett Powell
• “You’ll never be criticized by someone doing more than you. You’ll be criticized by someone doing less.” – Matt Beaudreau

Takeaways:

• Focus on effort, not just results. Celebrate trying hard, even if things don’t go perfectly.
• Prioritize relationships over impressing others. People appreciate real connections more than perfection.
• Own your time. Decide how you spend it and with whom you spend it.
• Let go of the need for approval. Fulfillment comes from being true to yourself.

Conclusion:

Garrett’s story reminds us that life isn’t about chasing fame or external approval. By focusing on what matters—effort, relationships, and time—we can approach life’s challenges with more confidence and peace.

So many women face health challenges they don’t fully understand—symptoms they’ve come to accept as just part of life, assuming they’re normal. But when these issues are ignored, they quietly take a toll. Breaking free from this cycle starts with realizing that feeling unwell doesn’t have to be your norm, and that there’s always more to learn about your body and health. It’s not about looking for a quick fix; it’s about taking control and being proactive about your wellness.

Kelli Musa, a wellness coach specializing in autoimmune conditions and menopause, understands this firsthand. After surviving an autoimmune disease, Kelli became passionate about helping women understand their bodies, primarily through the lens of autoimmune disease and menopause. She shares her recovery journey, explaining how embracing science and functional medicine helped her transform her life. She highlights the importance of self-awareness and finding the proper support to navigate health challenges. Her story is one of empowerment, healing, and proactive care.

Quotes:

• “It’s not right to feel poorly, it’s not right to not have energy, it’s not right to not have libido.” – Kelli Musa
• “You can put lupus. You can put any of these diseases into remission.” – Kelli Musa
• “When you get to the root cause of something, and you rebuild the system, you can actually bounce back.” – Kelli Musa

Takeaways:

• Listen to your body. If something feels off, investigate it—don’t just assume it’s normal.
• Seek the proper support. Avoid generic advice—find professionals who listen and help you understand your health.
• Take control of your health journey. Knowledge about conditions like autoimmune diseases and menopause empowers you to make informed decisions.
• Challenge the norm. While healthcare often focuses on quick fixes, true healing comes from addressing the root causes and being proactive.
• Prioritize self-awareness. Truly understanding how your body works is the first step toward lasting wellness.

Conclusion:

Kelli’s journey is a powerful reminder that wellness goes beyond just managing symptoms. By taking the time to understand your body and your health, you can make lasting, meaningful changes. Approaches like peptides, functional medicine, and a holistic perspective on health can help rebuild and strengthen your body, but it all starts with being knowledgeable and proactive. When you’re in tune with your body, you can take charge of your wellness better.

A lot of people carry beliefs they never chose—rules they absorbed from family, school, or culture without even realizing it. When those patterns go unchecked, they quietly shape how kids see the world and what they think is possible. Breaking that cycle means doing the hard work of noticing what’s really being passed on. It’s less about giving advice and more about becoming someone worth watching.

Garrett Gross is a former pro fighter from Southern Illinois who turned his life around after battling addiction. Now a father and advocate, he works with Operation 17 to fight online child exploitation. Today, Garrett shares how martial arts, faith, and strong community ties helped him rebuild. He stresses the need for men to lead with purpose, protect their families, and stay grounded in positive values. His story is one of grit, redemption, and responsibility. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

“Bad company corrupts good morals. He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” – Garrett Gross

“God grants us gifts, but it’s up to us to decide how to use them—whether for good or for harm.” – Garrett Gross

“Weak men are the downfall of everything. Weak leaders and weak men have been the downfall of our civilization.” – Garrett Gross

“We live in a strange world, especially for young men, where there’s a tendency to label everything—often in a negative light—while fostering a false bravado around things that don’t truly matter.” – Matt Beaudreau

Takeaways:

Audit your inner circle - who are the people influencing your daily choices and character?

Start teaching your children practical life skills now, not just sports or academic achievements.

Commit to personal growth by identifying one destructive habit and creating a plan to replace it with a positive behavior.

Practice open, honest self-reflection about your weaknesses without shame, viewing them as opportunities for transformation.

Develop a weekly accountability system with a mentor or trusted friend who will challenge you to become a better version of yourself.

Conclusion:

Martial arts and combat sports offer more than just physical training—they teach focus, patience, and the value of steady effort. When practiced with intention, they become a way to build character and strengthen the mind. The lessons learned on the mat often carry into daily life, shaping how we handle stress, conflict, and setbacks. At their best, these practices help individuals grow not just as athletes, but as people.

Teenagers today are facing pressures that most adults can barely understand, and it’s easy for communication to become a one-sided effort. As mental health struggles rise, parents often feel like they’re talking past their kids, unable to break through the walls of silence or frustration. Social media, school, and emotional turmoil add layers of complexity that make meaningful conversations feel impossible. But the more parents understand the silent struggles, the more they can find ways to connect and offer real support.

Kristin MacDermott is a marriage and family therapist specializing in resilience training. Her work, initially with cancer patients, evolved into creating a digital platform to support mental health for teens, military, and first responders. She developed the "Mindset Moments" program and parenting courses to improve communication between parents and teens. Today, Kristin discusses how simple, weekly conversation prompts can strengthen emotional intelligence and foster resilience. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

• “Resilience is realizing that life is not always a straight path. You can have great plans, but then your life can end up somewhere that is often way cooler than you could have imagined.” – Kristin MacDermott
• “The single most protective factor against depression and anxiety in adolescents is spirituality. This doesn't necessarily refer to a specific religion or even religion at all—it can simply mean a sense of transcendence, such as connecting with nature.” – Kristin MacDermott
• “The kind of therapist I am focuses on teaching what I know so that my clients no longer need me. Typically, I don't have clients who come to me for extended periods of time.” – Kristin MacDermott
• “You make normal what you make normal. If it becomes routine early on to discuss these things, talk about them at the dinner table, and identify emotions, over time, it naturally becomes a regular topic of conversation. It becomes something they focus on, pay attention to, and recognize—you establish what is normal.” – Matt Beaudreau

Takeaways:

• Practice curiosity with teens by asking open-ended questions about their emotions, experiences, and perspectives instead of giving unsolicited advice.
• Create a weekly family ritual of discussing one skill or mindset topic, using simple prompts that spark genuine conversation about resilience, values, or personal strengths.
• Identify and discuss your teen's personal strengths together, helping them recognize their unique capabilities without judgment or pressure.
• Commit to being vulnerable with your teen by admitting when you don't have all the answers, showing that learning and growth are ongoing processes.
• Develop a family communication approach that prioritizes listening over lecturing, focusing on understanding your teen's world and building trust.

Conclusion:

Building strong relationships with teenagers starts by creating safe spaces for open conversations and focusing on their unique strengths. By treating them as whole individuals with valid perspectives, families can support their mental wellness in a meaningful way. Rather than trying to fix problems, the focus should be on teaching skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. These tools will help teenagers face personal and social challenges with confidence and grow into self-aware, resilient individuals.

Links:

Use the code "APOGEE30" for a 30% discount on the Parent/Teen Relationship Reset! You can read more about the reset here

Many nonprofit leaders carry the weight of doing more with less, constantly stretching limited resources while trying to meet rising demands. That pressure can turn into a mindset where scarcity feels permanent, like a fact rather than a challenge. But sometimes the real shift happens not in the budget, but in how people see what's possible. When teams stop seeing constraints as stop signs, the work starts to move in new directions.

Robin Berlinsky is a nonprofit leader and educator who focuses on fostering creative learning and collaboration. At the College of Charleston, she guides nonprofits and educators to embrace innovative approaches to growth. Today, she discusses overcoming scarcity mindsets in nonprofits and the power of building positive, abundant cultures. She emphasizes leadership, strategic funding, and the importance of board engagement. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

• “Time and money hold the value we assign to them. Some people value time more than money. Some people value money more than time.” – Robin Berlinsky
• “When another nonprofit leader receives a significant donation, we celebrate it because that nonprofit, standing on the stage with the big check and being in the news, demonstrates what is possible.” – Robin Berlinsky
• “Life is all about change; nothing remains the same. As adults, we should approach these changes with positivity and make the most of them.” – Robin Berlinsky

Takeaways:

• Audit your current mindset about resources - shift from scarcity thinking to believing there's enough opportunity for everyone.
• Practice the "bless and release" approach when encountering unproductive situations or relationships that don't align with your mission.
• Create a culture of gratitude by sending handwritten thank you notes and celebrating others' successes, even in small ways.
• Develop a conflict resolution strategy that focuses on understanding, not winning - prioritize organizational growth over individual ego.
• Challenge yourself to have direct, honest conversations with team members about performance and cultural fit, viewing these as opportunities for mutual growth.

Conclusion:

Success in the nonprofit sector comes from collaboration rather than competition. By celebrating each other's achievements and maintaining clear communication, organizations can strengthen their collective efforts. Staying focused on the core mission of making a positive impact ensures that actions are aligned with long-term goals. Working together, nonprofits can create more meaningful change and better serve the communities they aim to support.

Follow Robin on Instagram to stay updated on funding opportunities: https://www.instagram.com/robin_berlinsky/

It’s a common struggle—pouring hours into a business that feels more like a job than a vehicle for freedom. Even with great skills and experience, it can feel like you’re constantly chasing instead of building something that works for you. The shift happens when you start thinking beyond the clock and start packaging what you know in a way that creates real value. That’s often where both the freedom and the income start to scale.

Russell Ruffino is the founder of Clients on Demand, a company that’s helped thousands of coaches sell high-ticket programs. His focus is on turning expertise into clear, results-driven offers that scale. Today, he talks about breaking through mindset blocks, building outcome-focused coaching programs, and using AI without losing the human touch. He emphasizes the importance of psychology in marketing and staying grounded in personal values while growing a business. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

• “If you truly have something transformational, you have a moral obligation to promote it as strongly as you can because there are so many people out there who need it.” – Russell Ruffino
• “Being promotional only feels wrong if the product you’re promoting is subpar or if you’re exploiting people.” – Russell Ruffino
• “The only reason to make money is to create the space to be with the people you love and to share incredible experiences with them. Nothing else truly matters.” – Russell Ruffino
• “I differentiate between teachers and educators. I believe it’s something ingrained in their DNA—a blend of passion and purpose.” – Matt Beaudreau

Takeaways:

• Define a crystal-clear, measurable outcome for your coaching or business offer that solves a specific problem for your target audience.
• Identify the exact pain points your ideal client experiences and craft marketing that speaks directly to those challenges.
• Create a free lead magnet or mini-training that demonstrates the transformation potential of your core program.
• Challenge your internal money mindset by setting more ambitious revenue goals that push you beyond current comfort zones.
• Audit your current business model to ensure you're not just trading time for dollars, but building a scalable, high-ticket service that creates real impact.

Conclusion:

At the heart of strong coaching and business work is a clear grasp of how people think, what they struggle with, and what they truly need. It’s not about fancy tactics, but about paying close attention and offering real solutions that improve someone’s life. When you focus on solving the right problem, progress comes naturally. That’s what builds trust, impact, and long-term success—keeping things human, focused, and useful.

There’s a growing weight on young men who feel like they’re stuck between who they are and who they’re supposed to be. Fear, doubt, and the constant noise of comparison create this low hum of paralysis that’s hard to shake. Some fold under it, others find a way to push through—and that difference often comes down to refusing to give up responsibility for their own life. It’s not about having the answers right away, but being willing to take back the wheel.

Jason Redman is a retired Navy SEAL, speaker, and author of Overcome and The Trident. Known for his "Sign on the Door" mindset, he teaches resilience, leadership, and growth through his military and life experiences. Today, he speaks about leading at home and in life. He shares stories from combat, lessons on marriage and parenting, and stresses the value of responsibility, grit, and constant self-improvement. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

Quotes:

• “Every single human can relate to the bullets and bombs of life. You've been blown up by rejection and failure. You've been shot down by injury, illness or loss.” – Jason Redman
• “God provided the skills and talent, but it's up to you to unlock the greatest version of yourself—He wasn't the one lifting those weights; you were.” – Jason Redman
• “Your success and your ability to be great in this life is directly proportional to you. It doesn't guarantee you're going to accomplish every goal and dream you go after. But we need to teach kids once again that you have the power to be amazing.” – Jason Redman
• “You have the standards and values, you don't compromise on them, and then you build everything else and you keep building that over time.” – Matt Beaudreau

Takeaways:

• Write your personal "sign on the door" - a clear statement of who you want to become, and place it where you'll see it daily.
• Choose one area (physical, personal, professional) and commit to being 10% better this month through specific, measurable actions.
• Have an honest conversation with your spouse or closest teammate about shared goals and dreams for the next 5 years.
• Pick one physical or skill-based activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone and requires consistent practice.
• Identify one victim mentality thought pattern you currently have and replace it with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.

Conclusion:

Real leadership starts with self-awareness—knowing what matters most, staying focused on clear goals, and not allowing outside pressures to shape who you are. When people choose to face challenges head-on instead of backing down, they grow stronger and more confident in every area of life. This mindset not only builds personal strength, but also supports deeper connections and a greater sense of purpose. It's less about control and more about showing up fully, even when things are hard.