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Be The Wolf episodes

  • #34 You Get One Life with Thriving Business Woman Michele Ostrowski

    In this gripping episode of 'Be the Wolf,' we welcome Michelle Ostrowski, a successful businesswoman and accountant, who shares her compelling journey of overcoming severe constraints in her life. From being trapped in an abusive relationship within a high-control religious group to building a thriving accounting practice in Northern California.

    Michelle's story is a beacon of resilience and transformation. The discussion delves into how she navigated through oppressive situations, became the owner of a million-dollar business, and now champions a work environment that honors and respects employees.

    Entrepreneurs can draw valuable lessons on making bold life changes, fostering positive work cultures, and pursuing their true potential.

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

     

    Connect with Michele:

    Website: https://www.tocaccounting.com/ 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.ostrowski 

     

    About Michele: 

    Michele was raised in Stockton, moving from Wisconsin at the age of 2.  She graduated from High School in 1985, then received her bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in accounting from DeVry University in 2012 while working at an accounting firm that she later purchased.  Michele is the sole owner of Tholborn & Ostrowski, Tax and Consulting Services. She has served Stockton as a registered tax preparer and a member of the National Association of Accountants and Tax Preparers (NATP) since 2004. 

    She has passionately created a work environment of women who are valued and appreciated, not just in word but in action establishing a livable wage and unlimited PTO. 

    She attributes her success to survivor instincts and a compassionate nature for herself and for others. 

     

    00:00 Welcome to Be the Wolf
    01:06 Meet Michelle Ostrowski
    02:30 Michelle's Journey to Success
    04:18 Overcoming a High-Control Religious Group
    05:24 Breaking Free and Finding Independence
    09:07 The Pain of Leaving and Healing
    11:20 Steps Towards Self-Sufficiency
    22:06 Buying into the Business
    28:13 The Power of Scripture: Manipulation vs. Growth
    29:07 A Life-Changing Diagnosis
    30:10 Breaking Free from Religion
    32:18 A New Beginning After Loss
    33:24 Finding My People
    34:56 The Importance of a Livable Wage
    36:35 Transforming the Workplace
    41:57 Advice for Small Business Owners
    46:34 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
    52 min
  • #33 Turning Exclusion into Inclusion with Dr. Linet Mera

    Do you remember way back when you were picked on you for being different? When they bullied you because you didn’t fit in? And sure, you eventually found people who accepted you, but deep down you never quite got over that feeling of exclusion. Join us as we delve into the journey of Dr. Lynette Mera, a diversity, equity, and inclusion expert, who shares her compelling story of overcoming exclusion and building inclusive environments in workplaces and beyond.

    This episode is packed with invaluable insights for people struggling with feeling marginalized, unseen, or unheard in their professional journey. Learn actionable strategies to advocate for yourself, create safe spaces, and foster equitable and diverse communities. 

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/   

     

    Connect with Dr. Linet Mera:

    If you are ready to make change, email her to book a call. Mention Be the Wolf to get a 5% discount on your first workshop.

    Website: https://www.unconsciousbiasproject.org/ 

    Book a call: https://www.unconsciousbiasproject.org/contact 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnconsciousBiasProject 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ubp_stem/ 

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/UBP_STEM 

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unconscious-bias-project/ 

     

     

    About Dr Mera:

    Dr. Linet Mera (she/her) is a fierce advocate for inclusion. Her mission at the Unconscious Bias Project is to empower leaders with inclusive programs that foster diversity so they can lead with impact and leave fear  behind. We all know that discrimination is field-agnostic, that's why her team helps leaders in any field and teams of any size get the tools and support they need to make the changes they want to see. 

    Linet believes inclusion is a choice and in order to make the change we want to see in our world, we must all take up the challenge to act. 

    If you are ready to make change, email her to book a call. Mention Be the Wolf to get a 5% discount on your first workshop.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
    02:28 Understanding Inclusion and Diversity
    07:22 Personal Experiences of Exclusion
    19:21 Navigating Academic Challenges
    23:42 Navigating Graduate School Applications
    24:51 Overcoming Self-Doubt and External Criticism
    25:47 The Application Process and Acceptance
    28:10 Imposter Syndrome in Graduate School
    31:59 Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion
    39:55 The Birth of the Unconscious Bias Project
    40:48 Empathy and Power in Leadership
    46:04 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
    49 min
  • #32 When it Feels Like Everything is Against You, Don’t Give Up! w/ Food Writer & Pastry Obsessor Shikha Kaiwar

    Did you try to make a career out of what you love only to hit one obstacle after another and give up? 

    You’re not alone. Obstacles can cause even the strongest people to lose faith.

    But what if those obstacles were there to pivot you in the RIGHT direction. And what if they were there to help you overcome the REAL problems keeping you from getting what you want? 

    To make a career out of what you love, you’ll have to learn and grow from obstacles–not avoid them. You’ve got to overcome your fears of failure and people not liking you. You have to quit procrastinating, playing small, and beating yourself up. And stop comparing yourself to others! I promise you– it’s not impossible. 

    It takes flexibility, perseverance, faith, and trust in yourself to carve out a career and business you love. And it IS 100% possible. Join us to find out how Shikha Kaiwar overcame significant life challenges to pursue her dreams. From her tumultuous childhood in an immigrant family to becoming a successful freelance writer and marketing consultant. Discover how she navigated health issues, career pivots, and the constant balancing act of following her passions while ensuring financial stability.

    This episode is packed with valuable insights for entrepreneurs struggling with self-doubt, identity crises, and navigating career transitions. Learn the importance of taking small steps, finding your support system, and redefining your own path to success.

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

     

    Connect with Shikha:

    Website: https://shikhalamode.ghost.io/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shikhalamode 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shikhalamode/ 

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shikha-kaiwar/



    About Shikha:

    Shikha is a food writer, recipe developer, pastry obsessor, and marketing consultant (by day). Catch her doing all that and more on Instagram and in her newsletter!

     

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
    01:39 Shikha's Background and Career Beginnings
    04:14 Overcoming Family Challenges
    06:19 Finding Passion in Pastry
    09:50 Pursuing a Career in Pastry
    18:41 Advice on Following Your Dreams
    23:58 Facing Health Challenges
    24:38 Balancing a Hectic Schedule
    24:59 Facing Health Challenges
    26:24 Support and Self-Care
    28:42 Shifting Perspectives and Career Paths
    30:22 Embracing Writing and Blogging
    32:56 Transitioning to Tech and Consulting
    35:24 Life in London and New Beginnings
    38:14 Identity and Overcoming Fears
    41:17 Connecting Through Social Media and Newsletters
    43:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
    46 min
  • #31 Turning What You Love into a Career with Cynde McInnis, Pursuer of Dreams

    Have you ever wondered if you can turn your childhood passion into a sustainable business? In this episode of 'Be the Wolf,' you'll learn how Cynde McInnis, transformed her fascination with whales into a fulfilling career and business. She shares her experiences working on a whale watch boat, becoming an adjunct professor, and creating the Whale Mobile, an innovative educational tool.

    Discover valuable insights about overcoming obstacles, finding your niche, and maintaining a passionate mindset.

    If you're an entrepreneur looking for motivation to pursue your dreams and valuable tips on achieving business success, this episode is a must. Listen now and be inspired by Cindy's remarkable story!

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/  

     

    Connect with Cynde:

    Website: https://thewhalemobile.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWhalemobile/ 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhalemobile/ 

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5Bplop8WY2QOExsYRxtCg 

     

    About Cynde:

    For the past 29 years, I’ve talked with thousands of people about whales. Through the Whalemobile, my education enrichment program focusing on a life-sized inflatable model of a humpback whale (that kids go inside), I can provide an engaging learning experience to introduce a unit about whales or be the expert that comes in to close it and answer student questions. I use whales as the inspiration to get kids to start thinking critically about what they can do to protect our planet. My obsession for whales as a child has grown into a greater sense of responsibility to take action on behalf of the wild world. Now, I strive to cultivate that same awareness, respect and responsibility in the next generation of ocean advocates. 

     

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
    01:51 Cynde's Passion for Whales
    02:35 Early Encounters with Whales
    05:44 College and Career Decisions
    07:41 First Steps into Whale Watching
    11:08 Internship and Career Growth
    19:21 Finding a Niche in Whale Education
    20:40 Navigating Career Uncertainty
    21:21 Returning to Education with Purpose
    23:24 Designing a Unique Curriculum
    24:19 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Lessons
    27:07 Creating the Whale Mobile
    29:14 Overcoming Fears and Embracing Abundance
    36:39 Sharing the Passion for Whales
    37:59 Connecting with Cynde and Final Thoughts
    43 min
  • #30 What Will it Take to Follow the RIGHT Path For You with Author & Teacher Matthew Brownstein

    In this engaging episode of Be the Wolf, discover the journey to finding and staying committed to your true path with author, hypnotherapist, CEO, and Executive Director Matthew Brownstein. Learn about the significance of following your gut feeling, overcoming mental blockages, and the role of hypnotherapy and spiritual practices in personal and professional growth.

    Matthew shares his transformative spiritual awakening at 19, experiences with hypnotherapy, and the importance of embracing a path aligned with your inner calling.

    Entrepreneurs will find insights on balancing their purpose with financial stability, tapping into the subconscious mind for profound change, and maintaining trust and faith during challenging times.

    Grab valuable tips on discerning between ego and spirit, pushing beyond comfort zones, and continuously expanding and enhancing your life.

    Don't miss this episode for profound wisdom on achieving alignment with your true self and evolving your path with confidence and joy.


    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 



    Connect with Matthew:

    Website: https://www.instituteofhypnotherapy.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/instituteofinterpersonalhypnotherapy

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofhypnotherapy/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewbrownstein/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheInstituteofInterpersonalHypnotherapy

     

    About Matthew:

    Matthew J. Brownstein is the CEO of Anahat Education Group and the Executive Director of the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy.  Matthew founded the International Association of Interpersonal Hypnotherapists, and OnlineMonastery.com where he teaches the Anahat Meditation System.  He is the author of five books including The Sacred Geometry of Meditation, The Sutras on Healing and Enlightenment, and Interpersonal Hypnotherapy.  Matthew is a student and teacher of A Course in Miracles and offers free classes on Meditation, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Growth, and Life Mastery Work through the Institute.  He is the founder of the Interpersonal NLP Society, Silent Light Publishers, and IGE Business Networking Groups.  When not working on the Vision of Anahat Education Group, Matthew enjoys hiking, kayaking, yoga, and meditation from his home in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. 

     

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode
    01:30 Meet Matthew Brownstein
    02:40 Matthew's Spiritual Awakening
    06:43 The Path to Hypnotherapy
    07:59 Understanding Energy Blockages
    10:42 The Power of the Mind in Healing
    16:28 Trusting the Inner Voice
    22:23 The Power of Surrender
    23:06 Exploring Career Paths
    24:06 Staying True to Your Path
    24:54 Financial Growth and Alignment
    29:04 Trust and Faith in the Journey
    31:06 Embracing Challenges and Fear
    36:07 Discernment Between Ego and Spirit
    39:12 Final Thoughts and Resources
    44 min
  • #29 Could You Have ADHD with Adult Therapist Kate von Achen

    Everywhere I turn, another person is diagnosed with ADHD. And they always say, “Everything makes so much sense now.” 

    They finally have a reason why they struggle with:

    • Can’t deal with stress
  • Impatience
  • Impulsivity
  • Easily bored
  • Can’t sit still
  • Negative self image
  • Lack of motivation
  • Sleep issues
  • Procrastination
  • carelessness and not enough attention to detail
  • starting new tasks before finishing old ones
  • Emotional reactions
  • Disorganized
  • Distracted
  • Can’t focus
  • Losing or misplacing things
  • Forgetfulness
  • Restlessness
  • Talking too much
  • Blurting out responses and interrupting others
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability 
  •  

    But what does the diagnosis actually give you? Does it teach you how to live your life better? Does the amphetamine prescription get rid of the problem?

    NOPE.

    Dr. Gabor Mate believes that ADHD is caused in infancy by a stressful environment. It can happen when the caregivers experience financial, political, or emotional stress. And a sensitive infant picks up on that stress. Because the child can not escape, they’ll  “check out” or dissociate. It’s a coping mechanism to escape the stress. 

    Once this strategy is learned, it becomes the go-to strategy for dealing with stress and feeling uncomfortable.

    But what if you could make your ADHD work for you instead of against you? What if you could change your brain? And create new, healthier coping mechanisms for stress? 

    Don’t you deserve that?

    This is exactly what Adult Therapist and AD/HD "Hypeman," Kate von Achen, is determined to do–for herself and others. 

    Join us for a conversation on diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and making ADHD work for you. 

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 



    Contact with Kate:



    About Kate:

    Kate von Achen is a clinical social worker working as an adult outpatient therapist in community mental health in Lawrence, Kansas. Kate’s journey into this line of work was anything but linear and makes perfect sense to those who have followed her at times chaotic journey. Overcoming (at times “self-created”) obstacles, running toward the flames while others run for safety, and being passionate about being of service to others has been the golden thread connecting the various hats worn internationally throughout her life. Finding out she is AD/HD at 42 and learning what that actually means has made her “at times chaotic journey” make perfect sense and has added tremendous value to her long “life experience list” she calls on in working in a community mental health setting. 

     

    0:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
    01:25 Understanding ADHD: Personal Insights
    05:39 ADHD Symptoms and Misconceptions
    10:29 Personal Journey: College Struggles and Misdiagnosis
    16:27 Life After College: Rediscovering Purpose
    19:38 Living with ADHD: Coping Mechanisms and Support
    23:30 Trauma and ADHD: Exploring the Connection
    26:53 Exploring ADHD Theories
    28:03 Generational Trauma and ADHD
    30:04 Adoption Trauma and Personal Stories
    32:29 Healing Early Traumas
    34:03 ADHD Superpowers
    37:53 Navigating ADHD Diagnosis
    47:30 Finding Purpose and Career Fulfillment
    50:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
    51 min
  • #28 Are You Wasting Your Life? with Soul Purpose Coach Christina Rusca

    Are you truly living your purpose or just going through the motions? Join us in today's episode of 'Be the Wolf' as we explore the profound question, 'Are you wasting your life?' with sole purpose coach, Christina Ruska. Christina shares her transformative journey from a high-stress career in the mortgage industry to fulfilling her true calling of empowering women.

    Discover what it means to be a sole purpose coach, the impact of societal expectations on our innate talents, and how the pandemic served as a catalyst for personal and professional awakening.

    Listen in as we dive deep into the importance of finding a purpose bigger than yourself and learn valuable insights on how to break free from the hamster wheel of life.

    Whether you're an entrepreneur grappling with work-life balance, seeking career fulfillment, or simply curious about uncovering your true potential, this episode offers the perspective you need to start living the life you were meant to lead.

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

     

    Connect with Christina:

    All the things: https://linktr.ee/christinarusca 

    Website: https://www.christinarusca.com/ 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinaruscaspc 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamchristinarusca/

    Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dharma-diaries/id1629933696 

    Best way to contact is email: [email protected] 

     

    About Christina:

    Certified Soul Purpose Coach, Host of The Dharma Diaries Podcast, and Creatrix of The Love Shack: A Center for Women's Empowerment

     

    00:00 Introduction and Question of the Day
    01:16 Meet Christina Ruska: Sole Purpose Coach
    01:59 Understanding Sole Purpose Coaching
    03:48 Discovering Your Purpose
    04:59 Personal Journeys and Insights
    07:08 Societal Expectations and Career Paths
    11:46 Pandemic Reflections and Realizations
    16:00 The Grind and Personal Sacrifices
    23:51 Breaking Free and Finding Fulfillment
    40:07 The Love Shack Project
    45:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
    46 min
  • #27 Rebuilding After Tragedy with Caitlin Doyle

    In this emotional episode of 'Be the Wolf', Genea and guest Caitlin Doyle shares her experience of transitioning from a career as an English teacher to finding her calling in the tech industry after a personal tragedy. Those who are facing career crossroads, will find Caitlin's story relatable and inspiring as it highlights the unpredictable paths to success, the importance of self-care, and the power of mentorship and perseverance.

    Caitlin's insights into navigating career transitions, dealing with loss, and ultimately finding fulfillment in tech serve as a powerful testament to resilience and reinvention.

    Tune in to discover how you too can build bridges to a career that you love, even if it feels miles away from where you are now.

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

     

    Connect to Caitlin:

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doylecaitlin/

    Organizations Caitlin works with: 

    TechWomen: https://www.techwomen.org/ 

    Technovation: https://technovationchallenge.org/ 

    Great Place to Work (my job): https://www.greatplacetowork.com/ 

    Organ Donation Resources: https://www.donatelife.net/ 

     

    About Caitlin:

    Caitlin started her career as an English teacher with no aspirations of working in technology. After experiencing a personal tragedy and losing her job, she stumbled upon a temp role at a tech startup, and slowly grew that two week contract into a career in Program Management. Now, Caitlin has shipped products with household names and serves as a mentor for other women in STEM. 

     

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    02:09 Caitlin's Early Career Path
    02:56 Challenges in the Education System
    05:52 Personal Tragedy and Its Impact
    07:25 Taking Time for Self-Care
    17:57 Volunteering and Finding New Purpose
    28:26 Transitioning to Tech
    41:12 Becoming a Mentor and Leader
    46:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
    48 min
  • #26 Breaking Free From a Cult to Create Your Best Life with Relationship Coach Amy Weitzman

    Most people follow and live by the set of expectations laid out for them (cult or no cult). Even when, deep down, they know it’s not right for them. They will wait until things are beyond unbearable before they change. But the reality is, you have to make a definitive choice to make things better, AND then you have to take action. And that's what Relationship Coach Amy Weitzman did. In this episode of Be the Wolf, you'll hear her transformative journey of breaking free from the constraints of a religious cult to live a life filled with joy and fulfillment.

    We dive deep into Amy's story of overcoming the bounds of purity culture, battling shame, and finding true happiness and intimacy.

    Amy shares powerful insights on how to improve relationships, enhance pleasure, and build deeper connections by addressing and reframing limiting beliefs.

    This conversation is a must-watch for people seeking to navigate personal and professional growth, overcome inhibiting beliefs, and craft a life of passion and purpose.

    Tune in for actionable advice and heartwarming stories that will inspire you to lean towards your own light and live a life true to yourself.

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

    Connect with Amy:

    Website: https://www.thepleasure.center/ 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thePL.center/ 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepleasure.center/ 

     

     

    About Amy: 

    Amy Weitzman founded The Pleasure Center to serve individuals and couples in their pursuit of better relationships, sexual health, and overall wellbeing. She loves supporting clients in healthy communication around intimacy, learning to access more pleasure, and releasing shame.

     

    Amy is a professionally trained Co-Active Life Coach. She’s currently studying at the Institute for the Study of Somatic Sex Education and The Gottman Institute.

    46 min
  • #25 So You Took the Leap to Follow Your Dream...with EricaPflueger, Sober Coach for Sober Women

    In this episode of Be the Wolf, Erica Pflueger, Sober Coach for Women, shares her remarkable journey from struggling with addiction and a challenging upbringing to discovering her passion for helping others and becoming a life coach. We dive into the importance of following your dreams, even as societal pressures often make people set them aside. 

    If you're facing obstacles, feeling stuck, or seeking inspiration to chase your dreams, this episode offers valuable insights on resilience, overcoming trauma, and the importance of community and support in personal and professional growth. 

     

    Connect with Genea:

    [free guide] Grow Your Business and Love Doing it with the 3 secrets the business gurus NEVER talk about: http://bethewolfgift.com/

    Website: http://bethewolfnow.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneabarnes/ 

    Connect with Erica:

    Website: https://www.thenextrightthingcoaching.com/ 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenextrightthingcoaching 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulsobrietynow/ 

     

    About Erica:

    I’m a sober mom, certified professional coach, and founder of The Next Right Thing—Coaching for creative, bad-ass sober women who are ready to take their recovery and lives to the next level.


    00:00 Introduction to Following Your Dreams
    02:08 Meet Erica Pflueger: Life Coach for Sober Women
    02:45 Understanding Addiction and Recovery
    07:00 Erica's Journey: From Chaos to College
    13:35 Facing Obstacles and Finding Purpose
    20:36 The Leap to Life Coaching
    24:43 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Sobriety
    43:43 Building a Joyful Sobriety Program
    47:47 Conclusion and How to Connect

     

    48 min

About Be The Wolf

From the publisher's feed

Ready to stop hiding and playing small … and start living from the TRUTH of who you are?