Ryan shares his powerful story of transformation, from a difficult teenage chapter and joining the military to training military working dogs, surviving trauma, building a dog training business, and working with high-profile celebrity clients. The conversation explores the emotional connection between humans and animals, why “energy runs down leash,” and how dogs can reveal deeper lessons about leadership, communication, healing, and self-awareness.

Ryan also opens up about surviving stage three colon cancer, chemotherapy, a widow-maker heart attack, PTSD, and how a chocolate lab puppy may have helped save his life by keeping him close to a hospital when he needed emergency care. Patricia and Ryan also discuss biohacking, meditation, breathwork, psychedelic therapy, travel, podcasting, and what it means to own your story without shame.

This episode is funny, raw, emotional, and deeply inspiring for dog lovers, entrepreneurs, veterans, leaders, and anyone who believes animals can teach us something about life, healing, and human connection.

Ryan's Instagram

World of Dog Training

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

Rachel shares her journey through public success and private struggles, discussing the emotional realities of building a business, navigating mental health challenges, handling social media pressure, and finding purpose beyond entrepreneurship. The conversation also explores grief, family legacy, creativity, leadership, and Rachel's upcoming fantasy book series written with her husband.

Together, Patricia and Rachel discuss:

This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, creators, business owners, and anyone navigating personal growth while building a meaningful life.

The Social Clique

Rachel's Website

Rachel's Book 

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

Patricia Muelle and Carisa Mendyk  talked about the versions of themselve  people still remember versus the women they've  become.

The mistakes. The lessons. The stories that are funny now but weren't funny at the time.

They talked business, relationships, being underestimated, healing, growth, and why sometimes people struggle to let go of who you used to be.

This one felt less like an interview and more like two women having a real conversation about life.

Carisa Mendyk co-owner of Great Lakes Home Design talks about being in a male dominated industry and shares the unbelievable story behind her nickname being a “Golf Ball Bandit,” including how she became involved in a nationwide golf ball retrieval operation that eventually led to arrests, national headlines, and Golf Digest articles. What could have become a shame-filled chapter instead became part of the journey that shaped her entrepreneurial mindset and personal growth. Change is a good thing and ao is your past! 

The conversation also dives into:

This episode is funny, emotional, relatable, and deeply inspiring for anyone navigating entrepreneurship, reinvention, or learning to own every chapter of their story.

www.greatlakeshomedesign.com/

Carisa on instagram

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

What begins as frustration over canceled interviews, awkward recordings, and projects falling apart quickly turns into something much bigger: a reflection on why authenticity matters so much in both storytelling and life. Patricia shares the behind-the-scenes reality of podcasting, from the emotional investment that goes into preparing for episodes to the disappointment of realizing that not every conversation belongs on the mic.

A major theme throughout the episode is the difference between interviews and real conversations. Patricia explains why Built This Way works best when guests are willing to be vulnerable, honest, and human, rather than polished or performative. She reflects on how the strongest episodes are never about perfection or credentials, but about people sharing real experiences, struggles, and lessons learned.

The episode also features unforgettable moments from seeing Gavin Rossdale of Bush and Stevie Nicks live in concert, reminding listeners how quickly perspective can shift during difficult seasons. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about creativity, stress, vulnerability, and learning to embrace both the chaos and beauty of life.

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

In this episode of Built This Way, host Patricia Muellen sits down with veteran advocate Donna McClendon to explore life after military service, the importance of boundaries, and the reality of healing from trauma.

They dive into the challenges veterans face when transitioning into civilian life, including navigating the VA system, accessing benefits, and rebuilding identity after service. Donna shares her experience working with veterans through Let’s Talk Vets, helping individuals find support, purpose, and direction.

This conversation also unpacks how trauma impacts both mental and physical health, why setting boundaries is essential for personal growth, and how individuals can begin reclaiming their power after years of prioritizing others.

If you are interested in personal development, mental health, veteran support, or learning how to set stronger boundaries in your life, this episode delivers real, actionable insight.

🎧 Topics covered:

Listen now to discover how to move from survival mode into a life of clarity, strength, and purpose.

VA Resources – https://www.va.gov

Donna McClendon Let's Talk Veterans Instagram @letstalkveterans

Intro & Connection

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

In this episode of Built This Way, Patricia sits down with retired VP of Operation and Purchasing now DJ Dirk Handlin to unpack what it really means to redefine success, leadership, and life after corporate. From leaving a high-level executive role to reinventing himself as a DJ, Dirk shares why waiting to “enjoy life later” is a risk not worth taking.

Together, they explore workplace culture, the difference between managing and leading, and how true leadership is built through connection, accountability, and authenticity.

This conversation is a reminder that reinvention is always an option and that the life you want doesn’t have to wait.

Intro & Guest Background

@DangerousDirkHandlin

[email protected]

[email protected]

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

We explore:

Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or marketer, this episode provides practical insights into improving your website, increasing organic traffic, and turning visibility into real business growth.

If you’re not actively working on your SEO strategy, you’re missing opportunities to be found by the people already searching for what you offer.

Intro & Guest Background

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

In this episode of Built This Way, Patricia sits down with Dan Crist, owner of Centsible Heating and Air Conditioning, to dive into the real story behind entrepreneurship. From life as a teenager to building multiple businesses in construction, restaurants, and HVAC.

We real talk about whay motivation "haters" provide when they ask questions like "What are you doing now?" and unpack one of his biggest business risks, a multi-million dollar development during the 2008 financial crisis, and the lessons that came from navigating loss, partnerships, and starting over. Dan also breaks down the realities of being in the HVAC Industry, the importance of asking hard questions early, and why helping people, not just making money, has been the foundation of his success.

This episode is for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone building something from the ground up who wants an honest look at risk, failure, growth, and long-term success

00:00 – Starting over and learning through failure

Want to connect with Dan? 

@dannyvcrist

https://centsiblemichigan.com/

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

We learn that serial entrepreneurship is not about chasing money, but about creating systems that generate profit and allow for flexibility, creativity, and control. Producer, Creator, and Entrepreneur J'Que makes it clear that success is not accidental. It is built on intentional structure, disciplined execution, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. The biggest shift comes when we move from desire to execution, and the bridge between those two is systems, tools, and accountability.

The conversation takes a turn into something even deeper when we explore ADHD, focus, and productivity. Instead of viewing ADHD as a limitation, we reframe it as a superpower when paired with organization. Sticky notes, color coding, calendars, and structured systems become the backbone of managing multiple businesses and responsibilities. We realize that in today’s world, where attention spans are shrinking, everyone is navigating some version of distraction, making structure essential for success.

We also dig into the trap of people-pleasing and how it quietly derails progress. Saying yes too often leads to burnout, misalignment, and lost time. The real breakthrough is learning to prioritize ourselves without guilt. We recognize that helping others is meaningful, but not at the expense of our own growth. Discipline, boundaries, and clarity allow us to stay aligned with what actually moves our lives forward.

J'Que’s story adds another layer of depth, especially as she shares her journey from being a stripper to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author. Her upcoming book, From the Pole to the Palace, represents transformation, faith, and reclaiming control of one’s life.

We close on the idea that success is not about doing everything. It is about doing the right things consistently. When we align our actions with our purpose, build systems that support execution, and protect our time, we create momentum that compounds over time.

Find J'que on Socials: @jquenow

Healthy Living & Wine Podcast –https://www.jquenow.com/new-page-1

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]

Manon opens up about her upbringing in the south of France, growing up in a modest family, and watching her father dream bigger than the circumstances around him. That example plants the seed for her own hunger to create a different life. She shares how she starts working young, pursues real estate, and eventually realizes she wants more than stability. She wants freedom, creativity, visibility, and a life that feels fully her own.

From there, we follow her leap into content creation and the bold decision that changes everything. What begins as a social media opportunity in Los Angeles quickly becomes far more complex and painful than expected, and Manon speaks candidly about the trauma, isolation, and survival instincts that shape her next chapter. Instead of going back home defeated, she decides to stay, rebuild, and bet on herself with nothing but grit, instinct, and a refusal to quit. We talk about her first roommate situation in LA, finding work however she can, building her own network, reaching out to brands and creators directly, and slowly creating the career and life she once only imagined from afar. She reminds us that success rarely arrives in a straight line and almost always comes with setbacks, reinvention, and hard truths.

We also dive into social media, visibility, and what it means to be seen publicly in a way that is not always fair or complete. Manon shares her perspective on being portrayed on reality television, how she handles criticism, and why she chooses authenticity over trying to control everyone’s perception of her. At the heart of this episode is a powerful message: we do not have to wait for permission, perfection, or the right timing to start building. We have to trust ourselves, find our people, and keep going, even when the path looks nothing like we expected. This conversation is about resilience, identity, collaboration, and the bravery it takes to keep becoming who we are meant to be.

00:00 Welcome and why this episode means so much

00:00 Why this conversation matters

Instagram | TikTok: @manonberryman

Berry Brand Agency – www.berrybrandagency.com

Instagram | TikTok: @patriciamuellen @builtthiswaypodcast @pmuellenandassociates

P. Muellen & Associate  – www.PMuellenandAssociates.com 

Built This Way, created and hosted by Patricia Muellen - story teller, entrepreneur, survivor, creator, marketing strategist, and owner of agency P. Muellen & Associates, LLC

Patricia spends her days helping businesses grow and having honest conversations about what it really takes to build something from nothing.

If you liked this episode, follow the podcast, share it with a fellow builder, and come connect with Patricia online.

Because around here we believe in hard work, real talk, and building things that last.

After all… some of us are just Built This Way.

@Patriciamuellen

@pmuellenassociates 

@builtthiswaypodcast

[email protected]