Episode 35 – Not Your Lane – I Am Self-ish Podcast

In this episode of the I Am Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright dives into the importance of self-discovery and recognizing when you’re in the wrong lane in life. He emphasizes that true confidence cannot be built in environments that don’t align with your authentic self.

Through personal stories and client experiences, Will unpacks the subtle signs of being in the wrong lane, from constant self-doubt to exhaustion, and explores the emotional and practical costs of staying there. He challenges listeners to pause, reflect, and ask themselves whether the path they’re on is truly theirs—or one dictated by fear, obligation, or outside expectations.

This episode is both a wake-up call and a call to action: the first step to real growth is acknowledging when you’re out of alignment. The next step is choosing to shift into a lane that reflects who you really are.

Key themes include the cost of staying in misaligned environments, the difference between fear-driven choices and passion-driven ones, and the freedom that comes with realignment. Will reminds us that the power to choose differently is always available—and that choosing your true lane is an act of courage.

Memorable insights:“Confidence can’t grow in the wrong lane.”“Fear and obligation will keep you stuck—but passion will get you moving.”“Alignment is where confidence and freedom meet.”

Connect with Will WrightHost | Certified Life Coach & Stress Management CoachCreator of the I AM SELF-ISH™ Method

📱 646-645-1509

📧 [email protected]

🌐 iamself-ish.com

💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/selfish-will

Instagram: @selfish.will

In this episode of the I Am Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright explores the transformative power of self-reflection, inspired by a coaching session centered on writing a letter to one’s younger self. This heartfelt exercise opened the door to deeper awareness, revealing how far we’ve truly come and the importance of honoring that journey.

Will dives into themes of personal growth, emotional intelligence, and the often-overlooked significance of celebrating small wins. He reminds listeners that in the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the quiet victories that shape who we are. By slowing down and reflecting, we create space to see our progress clearly, measure success by our own standards, and reconnect with the truth of who we are.

Key themes include the breakthroughs found in stillness, the power of acknowledging achievements big and small, and the way emotional intelligence fuels self-leadership. This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and recognize that you are further along in your journey than you may realize.

Memorable insights:“The biggest breakthroughs often come from quiet moments.”“Small wins are significant and should be celebrated.”“You are further along in your journey than you realize.”

Connect with Will WrightHost | Certified Life Coach & Stress Management CoachCreator of the I AM SELF-ISH™ Method

📧 [email protected]🌐 iamself-ish.com💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/selfish-will📸 Instagram: @selfish.will

In this episode of the I Am Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright is joined by someone who truly embodies this work: transformational coach and leadership expert Merilee Smith, who helps high-achieving women reclaim their voice, their purpose, and their inner calm.

Together, they dive into a powerful conversation on self-empowerment, emotional intelligence, and the unique journey of high-achieving women. They unpack the challenges of perfectionism, the power of choice, and why compassion is a game-changer in coaching.

Merilee shares her story of building Spark with Merilee, hosting transformative retreats, and creating spaces where women can reconnect with themselves. The discussion explores the importance of self-awareness, the impact of the words we use, and how to find a healthy balance between ambition and self-care. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that the power to create change has always been within you.

Key themes include the importance of self-empowerment for personal growth, the role language plays in shaping self-perception, and how compassion helps quiet self-judgment.

Merilee and Will highlight that transformation often begins with a small spark, that emotional intelligence is essential for navigating challenges, and that community and connection amplify the coaching experience. They also remind listeners that freedom starts with choice—and that it’s perfectly okay to embrace being a “hot mess” sometimes.

Connect with Guest: Merilee SmithChief Spark Officer | Mindset Coach | SpeakerSpark with Merilee📧 [email protected]🌐 sparkwithmerilee.com📸 Instagram: @sparkwithmerilee

Connect with Host: Will WrightHost | Certified Life Coach & Stress Management CoachCreator of the I AM SELF-ISH™ Method📧 [email protected]🌐 iamself-ish.com💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/selfish-will📸 Instagram: @selfish.will

In this episode of the I AM SELF-ISH podcast, host Will Wright sits down with Santiago Grijalva for a powerful conversation about the true essence of mentorship.

Together, they unpack what makes someone a real mentor, how social media has reshaped mentorship dynamics, and why distinguishing between a mentor and an influencer is more important than ever.

Santiago offers thoughtful insights and personal stories about the benefits and challenges of mentorship, the emotional impact of having (or lacking) guidance, and the critical role of integrity and accountability in these relationships.

This conversation is a timely reminder that mentorship is more than a title—it’s a relationship built on trust, honesty, and growth.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear why a mentor is someone who genuinely wants to see the best in you, and how mentorship is rooted in guidance, accountability, and personal development.

The discussion explores how social media has complicated—but not replaced—authentic mentorship, and why true mentors never make you feel like just a number.

Santiago emphasizes that you are not defined by your past mistakes and reminds us that mentors are not therapists—they’re there to guide your direction.

If you can’t clearly define your mentor, you probably don’t have one. A mentor should never make you feel stuck or ashamed, and the most meaningful mentorships are grounded in integrity, consistency, and accountability.

Ultimately, the journey of personal growth often leads to becoming a mentor yourself.

Connect with Host Will Wright📧 Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@selfish.will⁠🌐 Website: ⁠www.iamself-ish.com⁠

Connect with Guest Santiago Grijalva📧 Email: [email protected]📸 Instagram: @coach_gri

Episode 31: Stronger Than Setbacks – with Courtney

In this episode of the I Am Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright sits down with Bronx-born trainer Courtney for a powerful conversation about grit, growth, and redefining strength—on and off the gym floor.

From growing up in a female-led household to building a successful fitness career rooted in resilience, Courtney shares how his journey shaped his voice, values, and vision. They explore the mindset shifts required to bounce back from adversity, the underrated power of social skills in training, and why emotional intelligence is the new six-pack.

They also dig into the role of spirituality, the tension between family life and entrepreneurship, and how modern fitness is evolving beyond just physical appearance.

Takeaways:

• ​Strength is more than muscle—it’s mindset, presence, and communication.
• ​Setbacks aren’t the end of the story; they’re a setup for transformation.
• ​Being raised in a female-led home shaped Courtney’s emotional fluency and leadership style.
• ​Spirituality plays a vital role in grounding and guiding success.
• ​In fitness and in life, the ability to connect is just as important as the ability to coach.

🎧 Tune in to hear how setbacks built strength—and how you can turn your own struggles into fuel.

Connect with Guest Courtney Pierre📸 Instagram: @thesoulwarrior33🎵 TikTok: @thesoulwarrior33🌐 Website: the.soulwarrior.com

Connect with Host Will Wright📧 Email: [email protected]📸 Instagram: @selfish.will🌐 Website: www.iamself-ish.com

Episode 30: Feeding the Weakness – with Will Wright

In this raw and revealing solo episode, host Will Wright explores a powerful question: Are you growing, or are you being coddled?

"Feeding the Weakness" unpacks the subtle—but dangerous—ways pandering can show up in our relationships, routines, and self-talk. Whether it's others enabling our comfort zones or our own avoidance dressed up as self-care, Will sheds light on how these patterns keep us safe… but stuck.

Drawing from personal reflections and client experiences, Will challenges listeners to notice when comfort is being mistaken for care—and how to build relationships that call you up, not just soothe you down.

Takeaways:

• ​Pandering feels like love, but often keeps us stagnant.
• ​Real growth comes from truth-telling, not people-pleasing.
• ​Being challenged isn't the opposite of being supported—it's often the truest form of care.
• ​The people who call you out are often the ones rooting for your evolution.
• ​Empowerment > comfort—every
• ​time.
• ​
• ​Connect with Host Will Wright:
• ​Instagram: @selfish.will
• ​Email: [email protected]
• ​Website: www.iamself-ish.com

Episode 29: Leadership in Wonderland – with Susan Goldberg

In this episode of the I AM Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright steps into the curious and transformative world of leadership with consultant and author Susan Goldberg, co-creator of Leadership in Wonderland. Using Lewis Carroll’s classic tale as a creative framework, they explore how characters like Alice, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts mirror real leadership dynamics—confusion, growth, confidence, and clarity.

Together, they unpack what it means to lead with purpose in a constantly shifting world, why traditional leadership models often fall short, and how storytelling, curiosity, and reflection can guide leaders back to themselves. If leadership has ever felt like falling down a rabbit hole—you’re not alone.

Takeaways:

• ​Leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s personal, emotional, and evolving.
• ​Recognition, reflection, and self-awareness are essential to authentic leadership.
• ​Anyone with a voice, a vision, and a willingness to grow can lead.
• ​Storytelling is more than narrative—it’s a leadership tool for clarity and connection.
• ​Leadership development should feel human, not like a grind.
• ​“Collaboration Beyond Words®” helps teams work smarter, not harder.🎁 Bonus Opportunity:Susan is offering a free beta test of her “Leadership Insight” session—the first step in her Collaboration Beyond Words® process—for team leaders looking to grow.
• 👉 Email [email protected] or reach out to Will for an introduction.Company Page
• ​
• More About Susan Goldberg: Website:www.susangoldbergleadership.com
• ​LinkedIn: Susan Goldberg | Email: [email protected]
• ​
• ​Book: Leadership in WonderlandFavorite Quotes:“Leadership can feel like you’re falling down a rabbit hole.”“You don’t have to be loud to be a leader—just clear.”“Real leadership begins when you know your story and let others see it too.”
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• ​Connect with Host Will Wright:Instagram: @selfish.willEmail: [email protected]: www.iamself-ish.comWelcome to Wonderland. 🐇🪞

Episode 28: Brooklyn’s Finest – with Roger Dunkelbarger

In this episode of the I Am Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright speaks with real estate agent and creative soul Roger Dunkelbarger about the uniquely personal—and often emotional—journey of buying and selling homes in New York City.

With over a decade of experience and a background in theater, Roger shares how storytelling, connection, and a love for community shape his approach to helping clients find the right home.

Originally from Southern Indiana, Roger has called New York City home for over 15 years. His career spans new development sales, resales, co-ops, condos, and townhouses, making him a trusted guide for everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned investors.

He currently serves clients in both Manhattan and Brooklyn as part of the prestigious Eklund | Gomes team at Douglas Elliman.

Together, Will and Roger explore:

• ​How creativity and real estate intersect
• ​What makes Brooklyn buyers unique
• ​The hidden gems of the borough
• ​The challenges of NYC real estate—from analysis to emotion
• ​How storytelling and authenticity build stronger client relationships
• ​

The episode wraps up with a playful segment where the two dream up marketing strategies for fictional properties—yes, Hogwarts and Stark Tower included.

Takeaways:

• ​Real estate is more than numbers—it’s about identity, dreams, and belonging.
• ​Storytelling helps buyers imagine life in a new space.
• ​Every client brings a different energy—and needs a different kind of support.
• ​Being a successful agent means blending strategy, empathy, and creativity.
• ​Brooklyn and Manhattan each offer their own rhythm, challenges, and charm.
• ​

About Roger Dunkelbarger

Roger is a real estate professional with the Eklund | Gomes Team at Douglas Elliman, specializing in the Manhattan and Brooklyn markets.

Known for his analytical mind and high-energy, heart-forward approach, he supports both buyers and sellers through every step of the real estate journey. Before real estate, Roger built a career as an actor and singer, developing a global perspective that now informs his appreciation for architecture, design, and human connection.

🎭 Ithaca College alum

🏠 NYC real estate expert

🌍 World traveler & arts enthusiast

🎂 Aspiring baker & hiking lover

🔗 Elliman Profile📸

Instagram: @rogerofnyc

📧 Email: [email protected]

Connect with Host Will Wright

📧 Email: [email protected]

📸 Instagram: @selfish.will

🌐 Website: www.iamself-ish.com

Episode 27: Dance Dreams, Dirty Truths – with Megan Morgan

In this episode of the I AM Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright sits down with professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher Megan Morgan for a raw, reflective conversation about the beauty, sacrifice, and truth behind a life in dance.

Megan opens up about her early passion for movement, the long hours, and the personal costs that often stay hidden behind the curtain. Together, they dive deep into the emotional toll of the industry, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for clear contracts to honor one's value as an artist.

With honesty and heart, Megan explores the roles that community, trust, and self-worth play in building a creative life that’s not just sustainable—but healing. This episode pulls back the curtain on dance to reveal both the magic and the mess—the joy, the doubt, the grind, and the dream.

🎧 Takeaways:

• Dance is more than performance—it's storytelling, discipline, and identity.

• Boundaries and contracts are essential forms of self-respect in creative work.

• The dance industry can be isolating without the right support systems.

• The best dancers aren’t just technically strong—they’re emotionally aware and self-advocating.

• Safe, inclusive, and affirming spaces are key to the future of dance.

  
  

📩 Connect with Megan Morgan:
Email: [email protected]

Connect with Host Will Wright:
📧 Email: [email protected]📸 Instagram: @selfish.will🌍 Website: www.iamself-ish.com

🎭 Tune in to “Dance Dreams, Dirty Truths” and hear what it really takes to keep showing up for your art—and for yourself.

Let me know if you’d like a version with links formatted for podcast platforms or show notes!

Episode 26: Fear of Rejection

In this vulnerable solo episode of the I AM Self-ish podcast, host Will Wright explores the quiet, heavy weight of rejection—especially when it comes from the people closest to us.

What happens when your dreams are met with silence? When support is absent, and self-doubt creeps in? Will gets honest about the emotional toll of feeling unsupported and the courage it takes to keep showing up anyway.

This episode is a reflection on why rejection stings, how fear tries to keep us small, and what it really means to choose yourself even when others don’t. If you’ve ever felt discouraged by a lack of recognition, this one’s for you.

Connect with Host Will Wright:

📧 Email: [email protected]

📸 Instagram: @selfish.will

🌍 Website: www.iamself-ish.com

🎧 Fear of Rejection is a love letter to the ones still building—even without the applause.

Listen now, and let it remind you: your belief in yourself is louder than any silence.