Be Freaking Awesome Podcast

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In part two of our conversation with psychologist and author Dr. Adam Dorsay, we’re diving into how to build connection—not just feel it. This episode is all about friendship, chosen family, and why adult connection often needs more intention (and less perfection) than we think.

Angela, Sami, and Adam explore the vulnerability of reaching out, the reality of feeling lonely in a busy world, and the beauty of showing up for the people who matter. From voice texts to Google Sheets to hammocking over creeks (you’ll get it when you listen), this conversation is packed with practical ways to create more closeness in your everyday life.

If you’ve ever wondered how to go from “we should hang out” to “this person is my person”—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why adult friendship takes effort—and why it’s worth it
• The different levels of connection (and how to go deeper)
• How “quests” can bring magic and meaning into relationships
• Why perceived support is just as powerful as real support
• How to bring more fun, awe, and intention into your connections

Key Takeaways:

• Reconnection starts with a single reach-out
• You don’t need more friends, just more realness
• Awkwardness is the cost of meaningful friendship—pay it anyway
• Time is your most non-renewable resource—spend it wisely

Special Offer:
Ready to build more connected relationships? Grab a copy of Super Psyched for actionable tools to create deeper bonds with yourself and others—and don’t forget to pair it with Traveling Light to realign your inner world.

Where to find Adam:

• Adams Book: Super Psyched
• Adams Podcast: SuperPsyched with Dr. Adam Dorsay
• Contact Adam

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

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Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

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What if the most important connections in your life didn’t happen by chance—but by choice?

In this episode, Angela and Sami chat with psychologist and author Dr. Adam Dorsay about the four types of connection outlined in his book Super Psyched: connection to self, others, the world, and something greater. It’s a real, reflective conversation about how intentional connection shapes how we live, love, and show up.

They explore why asking for what you want isn’t selfish, how awe can be microdosed, and why being vulnerable (even in therapy!) is a superpower. Plus, you’ll hear personal stories that make the science hit home—from skydiving metaphors to birthday gifts to "Can we be friends?" moments that actually work.
This isn’t about forcing relationships—it’s about freeing yourself to build them with purpose.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

- What the four types of connection are—and why they matter
- Why connection doesn’t kill spontaneity (and might actually increase it)
- How awe, presence, and play invite deeper emotional healing
- The surprising link between disconnection and mental health challenges
- How to start reconnecting—with yourself and the people who matter

Key Takeaways:

- Connection is a practice, not a personality trait
- Being intentional doesn’t make it less magical—it makes it more real
- Your relationships can be designed with purpose
- Wonder, courage, and presence go hand-in-hand
- Showing up now is better than regretting later

Special Offer:
Feeling inspired to reconnect? Grab Super Psyched wherever books are sold for practical tools to deepen connection in every area of your life—and pair it with Traveling Light for a full-body reset of your inner world

Where to find Adam:

Adams Book: Super Psyched
Adams Podcast: SuperPsyched with Dr. Adam Dorsay
Contact Adam

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

Ever feel like politics is just too messy, too partisan, or too overwhelming to even try to get involved? We get it. But what if there was a way to protect democracy, empower voters, and make a real impact—without the drama?

This week on Be Freaking Awesome, we’re joining the global Podcasthon Movement to highlight an organization that’s been fighting for democracy since 1920—the League of Women Voters.

Angela, a dedicated volunteer and board member, shares her journey with the League, the real ways they hold the government accountable (spoiler: lawsuits and policy wins included), and how YOU can get involved—no political expertise required.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What is a Podcasthon? (Hint: Think modern telethon, but for awareness & impact!)
• How the League of Women Voters is nonpartisan—yes, REALLY.
• The hidden ways your local government impacts your daily life (and why showing up matters).
• The League’s biggest wins—including lawsuits that have changed communities.
• How you can easily get involved: whether it’s registering voters, learning about candidates, or just showing up.

Why This Matters:
Politics isn’t just about Washington D.C. What happens locally impacts our daily lives, from schools to roads to community laws. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to be an expert to make a difference.

This episode is your guide to becoming an informed, empowered citizen—without the drama, misinformation, or feeling like it’s “not for you.”

Related Episodes to Check Out:

• EP156 - Talking Politics Without Losing Friends: Strategies for Difficult Conversations
• EP142 - From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Simple Ways to Build a Better World
• EP143 - How to Keep Going in Divided Times

Resources & Links:
🔗 Be Freaking Awesome Book: AngelaBelford.com
🔗 Donate to the League of Women Voters Arkansas: lwvar.org/give
🔗 Learn more about Podcasthon: podcasthon.org/about
🔗 Subscribe to the Be Freaking Awesome newsletter: BFreakingAwesome.com

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

Are you waking up exhausted even after getting a full night’s sleep? You’re not alone. The problem isn’t just how much sleep you’re getting—it’s how well you’re sleeping. 

In this episode, Angela and Sami sit down with sleep strategist Tara Clancy to uncover the truth about sleep performance and why most of us are unknowingly sabotaging our own rest. Tara explains why 8 hours of sleep isn’t always enough, the surprising signs of poor sleep performance (hint: it’s not just feeling tired!), and the simple changes that can transform your sleep into a powerful tool for better focus, energy, and success. 

If you’re ready to stop running on low power mode and start waking up truly refreshed, this episode is for you!

In This Episode, We Cover:

✅ What sleep performance really means (and how it’s different from sleep hygiene)
✅ Why you’re still exhausted even if you sleep all night
✅ How poor sleep can show up as anxiety, cravings, or brain fog
✅ The connection between sleep and your success (yes, really!)
✅ Simple, science-backed fixes to improve your sleep quality tonight

🎧 Listen Now to Unlock the Secret to Better Sleep & More Energy!

🔗 Resources & Links:
Get 50% off Tara’s Sleep Reading: Link
UP YOURZzz LEADERSHIP BOOK: Link
Tara’s Podcast: Link

Connect with us on Instagram: Link

🔥 Loved this episode? Leave us a review & share it with a friend who needs better sleep! #BeFreakingAwesome

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

What does it really mean to be freaking awesome? It’s a question we’ve explored since Episode 1, revisited in Episode 70, and now—we’re back with Be Freaking Awesome 3.0.

In this episode, Angela and Sami take a deep dive into the origins of Be Freaking Awesome, how it evolved from a speech to a book to a movement, and why defining YOUR version of an awesome life is more important than ever.

If you've ever felt stuck in the “what’s expected” vs. “what I actually want” cycle, this episode is for you.

🎧 Press play and join us on this journey!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The story behind Be Freaking Awesome—from an idea to a movement
✅ Why pursuing excellence is better than chasing perfection
✅ How fear tricks us into playing small (and how to push past it)
✅ The power of choosing to evaluate your life and make intentional changes
✅ Why “awesome” means something different for everyone—and how to define yours
✅ The importance of messy middles and embracing the journey
💭 Ready to take the first step? This episode is your invitation to define what your freaking awesome life looks like—and start living it!

Resources & Links:
🔗 Be Freaking Awesome Book 📖 Get your copy here!
🔗 Episode 1: The Original What It Means to Be Freaking Awesome
🔗 Episode 70: Revisiting Be Freaking Awesome After Year 1
🔗 Episode 151: The Island, The Boat, The Keel: Setting Your Life’s Direction
🔗 Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning (Referenced in the episode)
🔗 Subscribe to the Be Freaking Awesome newsletter: BFreakingAwesome.com

🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need to hear this!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

👉 Have you ever been given an opportunity that felt bigger than you?
👉 Do you feel like you need more experience, more confidence, or more skills before you can lead?
👉 What if stepping up before you're "ready" is actually the secret to success?

In this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, we sit down with Kash Rocheleau, CEO of Icon Foods, who went from Executive Assistant to CFO to CEO in just a few years—long before she thought she was ready. We break down:

• How to handle big career transitions (even when they come sooner than expected)
• Why imposter syndrome is lying to you—and how to silence it
• The one mindset shift that helped Kash step into leadership with confidence
• How to fail forward and learn from mistakes instead of fearing them
• The changing landscape of leadership—and what it means for the next generation

Whether you're an aspiring leader, a business owner, or someone who simply wants to stop holding yourself back, this episode will challenge you to step into your potential NOW, not later.

🎧 Other Episodes You’ll Love:

• Ep. 113 – The Career Opportunity You’re Afraid to Take—And Why You Should Anyway - A deep dive into overcoming fear when big opportunities arise
• Ep. 99 – What to Do When You Feel Like You’re Falling Behind in Life - This episode also touches on imposter syndrome and overcoming self-doubt!
• Ep. 100 – Navigating Change & Growth Without Losing Yourself - How to handle transitions without burning out
• Ep. 52 – Syndrome or Superpower: Imposter Syndrome - A dedicated conversation on imposter syndrome and how to reframe it as a strength!

Connect with Kash Rocheleau:
Send her a message and connect with her at Kash Rocheleau on LinkedIn.

Join the Conversation:
What’s a leadership opportunity you’ve been hesitant to take? DM us on Instagram @B.FreakingAwesome and let’s talk about it!

🔥 Ready to stop waiting until you “feel ready”? Hit play now and go be freaking awesome. 🚀

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

❓ Ever felt stuck because you think your purpose has to be BIG, life-altering, and crystal clear? What if we told you that’s a total myth?

In this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, we’re talking all things purpose with Amy Zastrow, business impact strategist and speaker. And spoiler alert: your purpose doesn’t have to be grand, world-changing, or set in stone forever.

Instead, we’re breaking it down into something simple, real, and actually helpful—so you can start living with purpose today, without the existential crisis.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why you don’t find your purpose—you claim it
• How purpose can (and should) evolve over time
• The biggest misconceptions that keep people stuck
• Why your purpose doesn’t have to be world-changing to be meaningful
• Practical ways to figure out what truly drives you

We also get real about why the idea of “being of service to others” can sometimes rankle us (yes, we said rankle) and what to do when your purpose feels like it's constantly shifting.

If you liked this episode, check out:

🎙️ Ep #98 – Incomplete Cycles & Emotional Triggers (How past experiences shape your beliefs and impact your purpose)
🎙️ Ep #82 – When You’re Stuck in a Life You Didn’t Choose (How to pivot when your current path isn’t fulfilling)
🎙️ Ep #74 – How to Stop Overthinking and Just Start (If you’re waiting for “perfect clarity” before taking action, this one’s for you)

Resources & Mentions:

✨ Connect with Amy Zastrow on LinkedIn and visit her at SuccessArchitects.com
✨ Angela’s book Traveling Light – Get it here
✨ Follow us on Instagram: @bfreakingawesome

👉 What’s YOUR purpose? We’d love to hear from you! DM us or email us your thoughts at [email protected]—or let us know if you’re still figuring it out (because, same).

Subscribe & Review:

If you loved this episode, hit subscribe so you never miss a new one! And if you really loved it, leave us a review—it helps more people find us and join the conversation.

Until next time, go be freaking awesome! 🚀

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

💡 Did you know that your emotions around money are deeply tied to your past experiences?

In this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, Sami Kinnison and Angela Belford sit down with financial coach and behavioral specialist DonJay Rice to explore the unexpected ways grief and trauma shape your financial habits. Whether it’s avoiding money conversations, feeling guilt around inheritance, or struggling to make financial decisions, this episode will help you unpack your money story and take the first step toward a healthier financial mindset.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The surprising link between grief, trauma, and financial behaviors
✅ How your first money memories still influence your decisions today
✅ Why inheritance and loss can create unexpected financial guilt
✅ The power of money journaling and how to recognize emotional spending
✅ How to start having safe and productive money conversations in relationships
✅ Why 80% of widows change financial advisors after their spouse passes—and what that means for your own financial planning

💭 Are you carrying financial stress, guilt, or avoidance from your past? This episode is your invitation to reflect, heal, and create a better relationship with money.

Resources & Links:

🔗 Connect with DonJay Rice: DrumbeatofWealth.com
🔗 Subscribe to the Be Freaking Awesome newsletter: BFreakingAwesome.com

🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In today’s episode of Be Freaking Awesome, we dive into one of the most challenging topics of our time—political conversations. Whether at work, with family, or on social media, it’s easy to feel stuck between avoiding tough conversations or getting into heated debates. But what if there was a better way?

Join Angela Belford as she interviews Sami Kinnison, a communication expert, about how to navigate difficult conversations with curiosity, clarity, and connection. Sami shares why she believes you can be friends with people across the political spectrum, the biggest mistake people make when discussing divisive topics, and how shifting your approach can turn arguments into meaningful, productive discussions.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The #1 communication mistake keeping people divided—and how to avoid it
✅ Why understanding someone’s story is more important than debating their stance
✅ The power of curiosity and how asking the right questions can change the game
✅ How to talk politics without losing friends (or your sanity!)
✅ Why leading with connection, not confrontation, is the key to real conversations
✅ The long game of persuasion—why meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight

Related Episodes to Explore:
🎧 [EP143] How to Keep Going in Divided Times
🎧 [EP142] From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Simple Ways to Build a Better World
🎧 [EP141] How to Stay True to Yourself When Life Gets Messy
🎧 [EP129] Navigating Adult Friendships: Challenges, Intentionality, and Connection
🎧 [EP121] Embracing the Roller Coaster: Encouragement for Every Season

Recommended Resources & Books:
📖 Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High – Learn essential skills for handling high-stakes discussions with confidence.
📖 Supercommunicators: Unlock the Secret Language of Connection – Discover how the best communicators build deep connections and navigate difficult conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this!

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

Join Angela Belford and Sami Kinnison as they chat with Bernadette Joy, a financial empowerment expert and angel investor. Together, they dive into overcoming the fear of self-promotion, crafting a life of financial independence, and pursuing joy through purpose-driven living. Whether you’re a business owner, coach, or someone looking to crush their money goals, this episode will inspire you to step into your potential.

Episode Description:
In This Special Episode of Be Freaking Awesome
Angela and Sami sit down with Bernadette Joy to unpack the challenges of self-promotion and the myths around money and success. Bernadette shares her journey from corporate America to financial independence, and her mission to empower others to break free from money fears. This conversation explores navigating rejection, embracing creative hobbies, and redefining what financial freedom means for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to overcome your fear of self-promotion and share your value unapologetically.
• Why rejection can be your best feedback tool for growth.
• The practical steps to achieve financial independence for your next endeavor.
• The importance of exploring hobbies and practicing retirement now.
• How to align your personal goals with your values and passions.

Key Takeaways:

• Confidence in Self-Promotion: Why advocating for yourself is a skill you must develop.
• The Fine Number: Learn what it means to achieve Financial Independence for your Next Endeavor (FINE).
• Practicing Retirement Now: Start hobbies that bring you joy outside of work.
• The Power of No: Why honesty and integrity in business lead to long-term success.
• Freedom in Rejection: How rejection can sharpen your focus and clarify your goals.

Resources Mentioned:

• Bernadette Joy’s Website: CrushYourMoneyGoals.com
• Find Bernadette on Social Media: Instagram & YouTube: @BernadetteJoy
• Special Offer: Want to crush your own money goals? Check out Bernadette Joy’s book and courses at CrushYourMoneyGoals.com.

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].