What if the key to better leadership, health, and purpose lies in truly knowing yourself?  Heather Sholl, a wellness advocate, gym owner, and serial social entrepreneur, whose journey blends fitness, leadership, and a heart for service shares her unique perspective on bridging the gap between healthcare, fitness, and holistic well-being, especially for veterans.

From overcoming personal trauma to building impactful programs for cardiac rehab and veteran wellness, Heather's story will challenge you to ask: How well do you really know yourself?

We discuss resilience, self-awareness, leadership lessons, and the importance of hiring the right people. Heather also leaves us with three profound life lessons to carry forward, touching on self-talk, fear, and unconditional love.

If you’re looking to align your health, leadership, and purpose, this episode is for you.

Episode Highlights

If Heather’s story resonated with you, follow along with her work at The Villages Gym (thevillagesgym.com) or reach out directly at [email protected].

Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs a reminder to slow down, know themselves, and prioritize their health.

If you’ve enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and let us know what you’re taking away!

What if the key to unlocking your purpose lies in fully embracing the gifts you already have? In this solo episode of The Business Coffee Hour, I dive into Romans 12 to explore how each of us is uniquely equipped to lead, inspire, and make an impact. Through the story of naming my business, Exhort Leadership, I share how uncovering your purpose starts with recognizing your strengths and using them to serve others.  With practical advice and biblical insights, this episode will motivate you to uncover your strengths, lean into your purpose, and use your gifts to impact those around you.

Whether you're an aspiring leader or on a path of personal growth, this episode is a reminder that your story, talents, and journey are uniquely yours to share.

Highlights:

Take the first step in discovering your unique gifts. Reflect, write them down, and ask others what makes you stand out. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to step into their purpose. And don’t forget to like, subscribe, and invite others to join the conversation on The Business Coffee Hour. Together, we can uncover the gifts within us and use them to inspire change.

What happens when resilience, storytelling, and leadership collide? In this episode of the Business Coffee Hour, I sit down with Reena Friedman Watts, a media powerhouse and host of the 'Better Call Daddy' podcast, to uncover how these elements shape careers, connections, and legacies.  Reena takes us on a journey through her incredible career in media, sharing insights from her early days in radio to producing podcasts for 400+ episodes. Together, we explore the intersection of leadership, storytelling, and legacy, uncovering how the lessons of parenting, mentorship, and entrepreneurship shape both our personal and professional lives. Reena's passion for authentic connections and her actionable tips for starting and growing a podcast will leave you inspired to share your own story and build meaningful relationships.

Tune in to discover:

This episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and actionable insights. Don’t miss it!

Episode Highlights

Feeling inspired to start your own podcast or share your story? Follow Reena Friedman Watts on all social platforms or visit BetterCallDaddy.com to explore her work and podcast.

Challenge for the Week: Send a 30-second voice memo of gratitude to someone who has made an impact on your life. Start creating your ripple effect today!

And as always, if you haven’t been told yet today: You are loved, you are enough, and you are stronger than the problems you face. Tune in, share your thoughts, and leave a review!

What does it take to turn a passion into a thriving business while balancing family, resilience, and leadership? In this inspiring episode of The Business Coffee Hour, I sit down with Yolanda Vallier, founder of Styled and Staged Spaces, to uncover the journey behind her successful interior design business. From her beginnings in corporate America to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Yolanda shares how she built a business that combines creativity with purpose.

We explore how her family inspired her bold entrepreneurial leap, the invaluable lessons she carried over from corporate sales, and how she’s creating spaces that leave a lasting legacy. Join us for a conversation filled with practical tips, heartfelt insights, and a deep dive into what it means to lead with intention and vision.

Episode Highlights:

Call to Action:

Loved this episode? Make sure to follow Yolanda Vallier and Styled and Staged Spaces on Instagram (@SASSHOUSTON), Pinterest (@SassInteriorStylists), and LinkedIn (@SASSHOUSTON) to see her stunning portfolio and connect with her work. Visit styledandstagedspaces.com to explore her services. And don't forget to subscribe to The Business Coffee Hour for more inspiring conversations. If you found value here, share this episode with a friend who might need a little entrepreneurial inspiration!

In this solo episode of The Business Coffee Hour, William Garay Jr. dives into the transformative principles of The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy. William unpacks how small, consistent habits can create massive, long-term success in both personal growth and leadership. Drawing from personal experiences, he illustrates how incremental changes in daily routines, mindset, and business practices can compound into monumental achievements. Whether you're looking to improve your leadership style, build momentum in your business, or simply make positive changes in your life, this episode provides actionable insights and inspiration to get started today.

Highlights:

Call to Action:

Take the first step toward creating your own compound effect! What small habit can you start today to transform your leadership, business, or personal growth? Share your habit with William by messaging him or tagging him on social media @MustacheWisdom. Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who needs a little inspiration to start their own journey. And remember: You are loved, you are enough, and you are stronger than any challenge you face.

In this solo episode of The Business Coffee Hour, William Garay Jr.  delves into the transformative philosophy of servant leadership. Drawing from personal experiences in the military and leadership roles, William breaks down what it truly means to serve those you lead, emphasizing empathy, empowerment, and community commitment. Highlighting real-life examples from local businesses like Lit Java and Gringo’s, he showcases how servant leadership can build a culture of trust, improve employee engagement, and lead to sustainable business success. If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone looking to better understand how to lead by serving others, this episode is a must-listen.

Highlights:

1. [00:02:00] - What is Servant Leadership?

   William explains the concept and origins of servant leadership, emphasizing how it flips traditional leadership on its head.

2. [00:05:00] - Personal Lessons from Military Service

   William shares stories of influential leaders he encountered in the military, illustrating the impact of servant leadership in high-stakes situations.

3. [00:09:00] - Lit Java: A Local Example of Servant Leadership

   William talks about how this local coffee shop embodies servant leadership by continuously saying yes to community initiatives and supporting local projects.

4. [00:10:00] - Gringo’s Restaurant: Sustaining Servant Leadership Over Decades

   William highlights how Gringo’s has prioritized its employees’ well-being, leading to long-term employee retention and a strong, loyal customer base.

5. [00:11:30] - Practical Tips for Becoming a Servant Leader

   William provides actionable steps listeners can take to adopt servant leadership practices, from active listening to creating safe and open workspaces.

If this episode inspired you, consider subscribing, sharing, and following The Business Coffee Hour. Look around your community and identify examples of servant leadership, or take a step today to implement these principles in your own life and business. And remember, you are loved, you are enough, and you are stronger than any challenges you face. Tune in, lead with empathy, and serve others to create a better workplace and community.

In this episode of the Business Coffee Hour, I sit down with Angie Jackson, co-owner of Lit Java Coffee and Books, to explore the inspiring story behind their mission to create more than just a coffee shop. Angie shares how Lit Java has become a community hub in Pearland, Texas, providing a welcoming space for people to connect, relax, and find inspiration in both coffee and books. We dive into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of community engagement, and the powerful lessons learned from creating a business built on service, kindness, and vision.

From overcoming obstacles to staying true to their values, Angie discusses how their business continues to thrive by putting people first. Whether you're a business owner or someone seeking inspiration, this episode highlights how leading with love, creating community, and trusting your gut can have a lasting impact.

Highlights:

1. [00:03:00] - Angie’s Transition to Entrepreneurship:

   Angie reflects on leaving her stable career as a teacher and taking the leap into the unknown by starting Lit Java, a decision fueled by passion and purpose.

2. [00:06:00] - Overcoming Challenges to Open Lit Java:

   The two-year journey of finding the perfect location for Lit Java and dealing with the many challenges along the way, including facing rejection and staying committed to the vision.

3. [00:09:00] - Building a Community Hub:

   Angie explains the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for the community and how Lit Java has become a place for connection, creativity, and growth.

4. [00:13:00] - Leading by Example and Empowering Staff:

   Angie shares the leadership philosophy at Lit Java, emphasizing leading by example, showing grace to their employees, and helping them grow in their own lives.

5. [00:23:00] - Trusting Your Gut and Leading with Faith:

   Angie talks about the role of faith in guiding their decisions, trusting their instincts, and the mantra of “faith over fear” that has driven their success.

If you’re looking for a warm, welcoming spot to enjoy coffee and books or simply a place that feels like home, make sure to visit Lit Java Coffee and Books in Pearland, Texas. Follow Lit Java on social media to stay updated on upcoming events and community initiatives. You can also connect with Angie and her team on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @Lit.Java. Support your local businesses and see how Lit Java is making a difference one cup of coffee at a time!

And remember, if you haven’t been told today: You are loved, you are enough, and you are stronger than the challenges you face. Follow me at @MustacheWisdom for more inspiring conversations, and don’t forget to tune in next week for another episode of the Business Coffee Hour.

In this insightful episode of The Business Coffee Hour, William sits down with Sonya Atkins-Goodman, an HR expert and the founder of Human Edge Resource Solutions, to discuss the importance of leadership, faith, and community in business. Sonya shares her journey from a 30-year corporate HR career to becoming a business owner, highlighting the significance of aligning personal values with professional goals. They explore how understanding the human side of leadership, building strong teams, and giving back to the community can help you scale your business while staying true to your vision. Sonya also talks about her passion for coaching women and creating spaces where they can thrive in their careers.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about purpose-driven entrepreneurship, balancing life and leadership, and finding your voice as a business leader.

Highlights:

1. Sonya’s Transition to Business Ownership (00:01:00)  —

   Sonya discusses her transition from a long HR career to starting her own company, inspired by faith and a desire to control her own narrative in business.

2. The Importance of Aligning Values and Business Goals (00:07:00)  —

   Sonya emphasizes the need for business owners to clearly define their values and use them to build company culture and drive success.

3. Challenges Small Businesses Face with Compliance and HR*(00:09:00)  —

   Sonya talks about the common issues she sees with small to mid-sized businesses, especially around compliance and people management.

4. The Power of Community and Giving Back (00:21:00)  —

   Sonya shares how becoming a business owner allowed her to engage more deeply with her community and support women through a personal passion project.

5. Speak It, Believe It, Be It: Sonya’s Life Mantra (00:27:00)  —

   Sonya’s powerful mantra for personal and professional growth — speaking, believing, and being your best self — offers actionable advice for listeners looking to find their voice and create lasting change.

Follow Sonya on her journey by visiting her website at [www.humanedgeresourcesolutions.com](http://www.humanedgeresourcesolutions.com) or reaching out to her team at 1-833-437-7482. You can also find her on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Whether you're looking for HR solutions or career coaching, Sonya’s team is ready to help you build a stronger business and future.

How to Stay in Touch

Feel free to reach out to William for more insights, book recommendations, or just to connect on all things leadership and entrepreneurship!

In this solo episode of The Business Coffee Hour, I dive into one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth: gratitude. We explore how gratitude not only transforms our mindset but also creates stronger relationships, improves workplace culture, and builds resilience. From the small daily habits to creating a culture of appreciation, I share how gratitude can shape leadership and business success. Learn practical tips for implementing gratitude in your life and discover how this simple mindset shift can lead to big results, both at home and at work.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Power of Gratitude in Leadership – 00:01:00

William discusses how a gratitude-focused mindset impacts leadership styles and improves workplace culture.

2. Gratitude Boosts Productivity and Retention – 00:02:00

A study from the Harvard Business Review highlights the positive effects of gratitude in the workplace, including higher productivity and employee retention.

3. Daily Gratitude Habits – 00:04:00  

William shares his personal practice of expressing gratitude with his family and how it has transformed both his personal and professional life.

4. Gratitude as a Tool to Overcome Challenges – 00:06:00  

William emphasizes the importance of being grateful for even the hardest moments, as they provide opportunities for growth and resilience.

5. Practical Tips for Expressing Gratitude in the Workplace – 00:08:00

From high-fives to handwritten notes, William shares simple, effective ways to incorporate gratitude into everyday work culture.

If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for today. Reach out to someone in your workplace or personal life and show them your appreciation. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Business Coffee Hour and share this episode with someone who could use a little more gratitude in their life. Follow William on social at @MustacheWisdom. And as always, remember: You are loved, you are enough, and you are stronger than the problems that face you. 

In this episode of the Business Coffee Hour, I sit down with Andrea Barrios, owner of Casa Quest Mortgage and USA Commercial Insurance Agency. Andrea shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a real estate family, through her career transitions, to becoming a thriving entrepreneur. We discuss the importance of education, persistence, and balancing parenthood with running a business. Andrea’s approach to building strong client relationships, navigating the complexities of the insurance and mortgage industries, and overcoming personal challenges is truly motivating. Tune in for valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and finding success through service.

Be sure to follow Andrea Barrios on TikTok and Instagram at @ensureyourfuture_ and stay connected with her journey in the mortgage and insurance industries. If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to share it with someone who could benefit from Andrea’s story. And as always, thank you for listening to the Business Coffee Hour.

Episode Highlights:

1. Andrea’s Background in Real Estate – [00:02:00]  

Andrea shares how growing up in a real estate family shaped her knowledge and passion for the industry.

2. Transitioning to Entrepreneurship – [00:04:00]  

After leaving the medical field to care for her son, Andrea fell in love with real estate and the business world, finding a new path in mortgage and insurance.

3. Building Client Relationships – [00:10:00]  

Andrea emphasizes the importance of connecting with clients by understanding their needs and offering personalized solutions.

4. Overcoming Fear of Rejection – [00:12:00]  

Andrea opens up about her struggle with rejection and how embracing failure has been key to her personal and professional growth.

5. The Power of Persistence – [00:24:00]  

Andrea highlights how persistence and dedication are the foundation of her business success and offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs.