In this episode of From Fear to Fire, Heather Hansen O’Neill highlights the importance of the reset as a tool to regain clarity, energy, and momentum. Instead of pushing harder when feeling drained, she encourages stepping back and unplugging to move forward more effectively. Heather frames reset through her acronym: S for Soul-serving, E for Energizing, and T for Transformative. A true reset does more than pause; it replenishes, uplifts, and creates meaningful change.

Heather shares her own reset practices, such as journaling by the ocean, practicing mindfulness in daily tasks, and dancing to music at home. She encourages listeners to discover what nourishes their soul, sparks their energy, and opens them up to transformation. Her message is clear: a reset is not wasted time; it is an investment in yourself. With the right reset, you return with renewed focus, joy, and the ability to make a greater impact.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire. Today, we talk about using a reset—soul-serving, energizing, and transformative pauses—to recharge, gain clarity, and return with greater focus and impact.

   is the host of the From Fear to Fire podcast as well as a best-selling author, igniter of inner flame, and an international keynote speaker and change strategist. Her specialty is in helping individuals and organizations consciously transform their behaviors for peak performance.

Website: Heather Hansen O’Neill

Social media accounts:

Reach out to Heather at: [email protected].

Find her new TEDx HERE

Want to dive deeper? Check out Finding Humanity book, explore The Humanity of Sales show on YouTube, and watch the powerful DisruptHR talk.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes. Even YOU.” ~Anonymous

Experience 3 days of renewal, clarity, and connection. Join The Shift Retreat this September in Cornwall, CT!

The post ReSET with Heather Hansen O’Neill appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

The episode centers around the transformative power of healing art, specifically through the medium of fused glass. Guest Nancy Dillingham Marks shares how her journey into the world of glass art began as a bonding activity with her mother and unexpectedly evolved into a life-changing passion. Despite early self-doubt and a lack of traditional artistic background, Nancy discovered that working with glass unlocked a creative side she had long denied. Through her business, the Glass Arts Collective, she turned this personal discovery into a communal space where others could experience the same kind of healing and personal growth through creativity.

The concept of healing art takes on deeper meaning as Nancy describes how her studio became a sanctuary, especially during the challenges of COVID-19. She explains how hands-on creativity with vibrant, light-filled glass allows people to disconnect from stress and reconnect with themselves. Her community-driven space fosters connection, joy, and emotional release, helping individuals, from healthcare workers to everyday visitors, find peace and inspiration. Nancy’s story illustrates how art, especially when approached with openness and heart, can serve as a profound tool for healing, resilience, and transformation.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about how healing art, particularly through fused glass, empowers individuals to relieve stress, rediscover creativity, and build community in a supportive, hands-on environment.

Nancy Dillingham Marks is the creative force behind Glass Arts Collective. She champions the power of hands-on creativity to heal, connect, and inspire—and helps others rediscover joy through glass art.

Website: Glass Arts Collective

LinkedIn: Nancy Dillingham Marks

“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” ~Henry David Thoreau

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Healing Art with Nancy Dillingham Marks appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

This episode features Marchem Pfeiffer, a former education leader and author of Navigating Leadership from Toxicity to Triumph. The conversation explores how toxic work environments can lead to burnout, self-doubt, and emotional isolation. Marchem shares how he came to recognize the toxicity in his own workplace, the emotional toll it took, and the importance of setting boundaries and seeking support. He discusses the difference between healthy solitude and harmful silence and encourages leaders to realign internally so they can lead more effectively.

Toxicity to Triumph is more than a theme; it reflects Marchem’s personal transformation through workplace trauma, depression, and recovery. He introduces the Core Alignment Index, a leadership tool that measures clarity, ownership, regulation, and energy. The episode offers actionable advice for those feeling stuck, starting with personal growth, consistent values, and emotional awareness. It is a reminder that healing and leadership begin within and that it is possible to rise from toxicity into a life of purpose and peace.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about how leaders can overcome toxic work environments by prioritizing personal healing, setting boundaries, and realigning with their core values to move from toxicity to triumph.

Marchem Pfeiffer is a former education leader turned leadership strategist, author, and creator of the CORE Alignment Index, a breakthrough framework helping leaders recalibrate from burnout to balance. With a background in public education and organizational reform, Marchem brings a rare blend of empathy, strategy, and emotional intelligence to his work. His book Navigating Leadership: From Toxicity to Triumph charts a bold path through the chaos of broken systems and back into alignment. He helps people lead without losing themselves and speaks with the kind of honesty that permits others to heal as well.

Website: Leadership Rewired

Social Media:

Free Tools for Listeners:

CORE Alignment Quiz + Reset Guide – Discover your unique leadership archetype and regain emotional clarity

Top 5 Signs of Misalignment in Toxic Systems PDF – Learn how to spot and stop emotional erosion early. Visit his website HERE.

“Life is short…work where you’re continuously accepted, respected, appreciated, encouraged, inspired, empowered, and valued.” ~Ty Howard

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post From Toxicity to Triumph with Marchem Pfeiffer appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

This episode focuses on building a Culture of Humanity in the workplace. Heather explains that shifting from a performance-driven environment to one centered on people can lead to stronger engagement, better productivity, and more innovation. She emphasizes that creating a human-focused culture isn’t about perks but about real actions that help people feel seen, heard, and valued. Backed by compelling stats, Heather offers practical tips like showing kindness, asking meaningful questions, and fostering genuine connections.

Leadership is key to this shift. Heather urges leaders to model vulnerability, set the tone with intention, and build trust through small, consistent efforts. A Culture of Humanity begins with asking simple questions, celebrating human-centered wins, and making people feel supported. She encourages listeners to lead with care, one conversation at a time, and to share their own stories of success and change.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire. Today, we talk about how cultivating a Culture of Humanity in the workplace leads to greater engagement, trust, and performance through intentional, people-centered leadership.

is the host of the From Fear to Fire podcast as well as a best-selling author, igniter of inner flame, and an international keynote speaker and change strategist. Her specialty is in helping individuals and organizations consciously transform their behaviors for peak performance.

Website: Heather Hansen O’Neill

Social media accounts:

Reach out to Heather at: [email protected].

Find her new TEDx HERE

Want to dive deeper? Check out Finding Humanity book, explore The Humanity of Sales show on YouTube, and watch the powerful DisruptHR talk.

“Humanity today possesses sufficient economic, cultural, and spiritual resources to introduce a better global order.” ~Hans Kung

Have you heard about the new Elements of Adventure program??  Check it out here!

The post The Culture of Humanity with Heather Hansen O’Neill appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

In this episode of From Fear to Fire, Heather Hansen O’Neill speaks with author A.J. Otjen about her book Burned Over, which tells the story of Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen. After being severely burned in a 2021 wildfire, Dan’s survival became a rallying point for the town of Red Lodge during what they called “the summer of hell.” His journey through pain, isolation, and recovery reveals the deep bonds of community and the emotional toll such trauma can take, not just on the individual but on everyone connected.

At the heart of Dan’s story is burning resilience, the fierce and enduring strength forged in tragedy. Despite overwhelming odds, Dan returned to the fireline just two years later, a testament to his grit and the unwavering support of those around him. The episode highlights how accepting help, leaning on community, and honoring emotional healing are just as critical as physical recovery, offering lessons with powerful relevance in both life and leadership.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about the concept of burning resilience through the true story of firefighter Dan Steffensen’s survival, recovery, and the power of community support after suffering catastrophic burns.

Author A.J. Otjen is a 2023 Library of Congress Award-Winning author, and Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen offers a gripping firsthand account of survival, courage, and the power of community in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Your audience will gain insights into the harrowing world of wildland firefighting, the physical and emotional challenges of burn recovery, and the extraordinary strength of the human spirit. Otjen and Steffensen’s story is a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged in times of crisis and the profound impact of community support on the path to healing.

Website: A.J. Otjen

Facebook: The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen 

Purchase a copy of the book Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen – available in audiobook, Kindle, or paperback.

“The difference between a good life and a bad life is how well you walk through the fire” ~Carl Jung

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Burning Resilience with A.J. Otjen appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

In this podcast episode, David shares how the power of play has shaped both his personal journey and entrepreneurial success. From his roots in working with children to becoming a play therapist, David highlights how curiosity, creativity, and playful experimentation have always guided his path. Rather than striving through burnout and fear, he has built his ventures around joy and aligned action, encouraging listeners to do the same. By treating challenges like experiments and embracing failure as part of the learning process, David reframes business and life as opportunities for play, growth, and authenticity.

The conversation underscores how play isn’t just for kids; it’s a mindset that can transform leadership, problem-solving, and resilience. David encourages entrepreneurs to reconnect with their inner child by doing something they loved growing up, whether it’s cooking, exploring, or simply being present. Vulnerability, improvisation, and stepping outside of comfort zones, he says, become easier when approached with a playful spirit. His message is clear: when we let go of fear and tap into play, we not only perform better, we live better.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about how embracing the power of play can lead to greater joy, creativity, and resilience in both business and life.

David “Schatzy” Schatzkamer with me. David is a serial entrepreneur, business growth strategist, and Play Therapist. David has founded multiple successful ventures and believes that entrepreneurial success should come from joy and creativity—not burnout and 3AM decisions.

Websites: Yes I Can and Center 4Play Therapy

LinkedIn: David (“Schatzy”) Schatzkamer

Offering a complimentary 30-minute business coaching and consultation session exclusively for show attendees, call 1-888-724-2899.

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” ~George Bernard Shaw

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post The Power of Play with David Schatzkamer appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

In this powerful episode, we dive into the theme of Transforming Comfort, breaking free from the safety of the familiar to pursue real growth and purpose. Todd shares how a lightning bolt, a symbol from his childhood, became the metaphor for his transformation—from breakdancer to addict, and eventually to entrepreneur, speaker, and coach. His story reminds us that transformation often comes through discomfort, whether it’s a sudden, life-altering event or a gradual realization that “just fine” isn’t enough.

Todd challenges us to stop waiting for a dramatic wake-up call and instead take small, intentional steps toward change. Whether it’s starting a two-minute journaling practice, becoming aware of unhelpful habits, or simply asking “What if?”, he shows how curiosity is the key to unlocking a growth mindset. This episode is a call to action for anyone feeling stuck: you don’t have to wait for lightning to strike; start transforming comfort into courage today.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about transforming comfort into growth by stepping out of complacency, embracing curiosity, and taking small, intentional actions toward lasting personal transformation.

Todd’s inspiring transformation from a difficult adolescence to a flourishing career as an entrepreneur and coach demonstrates the power of personal growth and perseverance. After surviving a serious incident in his early 20s, Todd turned his life around, eventually founding Evolve Marketing in 2009 and growing into a midsize marketing agency.

Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Todd embraced a holistic approach to personal growth and now shares his insights through coaching, speaking, and personal growth podcast, The BOLT.

With a background in graphic design and marketing, extensive public speaking experience, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Todd is dedicated to helping others embrace change, develop a growth mindset, and achieve a fulfilling life.

Website: Todd Bertsch

Social Media:

LinkedIn: Todd Bertsch

“Life is a flash of lightning in the dark of night. It is a brief time of tremendous potential.” ~B. Alan Wallace

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Transforming Comfort with Todd Bertsch appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

In this inspiring episode of From Fear to Fire, Heather chats with Mary Helen Conroy, author, speaker, and founder of Life’s a Daring Adventure, about embracing every life change as a true daring adventure. From her start as a librarian to becoming a book coach for 34 new authors (including Heather!), Mary Helen shows how passion, resilience, and a willingness to reinvent yourself can turn even the toughest transitions, like retirement or a pandemic, into opportunities for growth.

Tune in for practical tips on finding your next chapter and remembering: if you’re not dead, you’re not done!

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we talk about embracing life’s transitions, like retirement or reinvention, as a daring adventure filled with purpose, passion, and possibility.

Mary Helen Conroy is an inspirational speaker, author, and life coach dedicated to helping individuals navigate life transitions and embrace new adventures. She is the Chief Creative Officer and Founder of “Life’s a Daring Adventure,” where she empowers clients to reimagine their futures and pursue their passions. During the pandemic, she pivoted into “book coach/publisher” and has helped 34 dreamers become authors. Heather is one of my new best friends, whose “Finding Humanity” became a #1 Amazon Best Seller

Website: Life Is A Daring Adventure

LinkedIn: Mary Helen Conroy

Always lovely to have a Zoom chat and talk about your dreams.

“Adventure isn’t just hanging off a rope on the side of a mountain. It’s an attitude we must apply to the day to day obstacles of life.” ~John Amat

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Live Your Daring Adventure with Mary Helen Conroy appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

Self-investment is the most important investment you’ll ever make. Our guest shares the fear and breakthrough of taking that first leap into self-investment, challenging the traditional mindset around money and growth. We explore how reallocating some of that diversification mindset inward can deliver results faster and more meaningfully than many external financial vehicles.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re worth the investment, this conversation is your answer. Tune in and discover why betting on yourself always pays the highest return.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today we talk about the power and importance of self-investment as the most valuable and transformative investment you can make.

Former tech exec that helped scale Groupon as one of the first 100 employees. 5 years in, I resigned after never ending burnout and dissatisfaction.

I spent the next few years investing my full time into all things philosophy, psychology, and neurology. I hired a Harvard trained psychologist and economist to coach me, I then paid to be his apprentice. He’s now the president of the world’s largest coaching community, Heroic.

The universe is here to support us

Website: JKomosa

LinkedIn: Jason Komosa

Free 30-minute sales diagnosis

“It is not your customer’s job to remember you. It is your obligation and responsibility to make sure they don’t have the chance to forget you.” ~Patricia Fripp

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Self-Investment with Jason Komosa appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.

Freedom from imposter syndrome starts with understanding that true success isn’t about external achievements or meeting an idealized version of ourselves. It’s about recognizing the inner conflict between who we are and who we think we should be. Relying on external success for validation never solves the deeper issue of self-worth. Real freedom comes when we embrace our unique identity and live authentically, aligning our thoughts and actions with our true purpose. By mastering our thoughts, we can transform how we experience life and achieve our goals.

To break free from imposter syndrome, we must shift from comparison and fear to self-awareness and confidence. We have the power to control our thoughts, focusing on our own strengths and gifts instead of trying to become someone else. Asking ourselves, “Who am I really created to be?” helps us live intentionally, aligned with our true identity. This shift not only frees us from imposter syndrome but also empowers us to live a purposeful and fulfilling life.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today we talk about understanding oneself can help break through barriers and create lasting personal growth.

Mark is the founder of Freedom For Life and author of the transformational leadership book, “LIFE MASTERY: Living life by design, not by default.” He has seen hundreds of lives transformed through his Life Mastery suite of courses and has a singular passion to see people unleashed as the Hero they are created to be in their business, relationships and life.

Website: F4L Freedom For Life

Social Accounts:

Linkedin: Mark Collins

“True freedom is understanding that we have a choice in who and what we allow to have power over us” ~ Meryl Streep

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales book is out now. Check it out here!

The post Freedom from Imposter Syndrome with Mark Collins appeared first on Heather Hansen Oneill.