Intentional Improvement

“When you’ve lived your whole life being told what to think, how to feel, and who to be, healing feels like rebellion. Every boundary you set, every truth you speak, is an act of courage against the lies that once defined you.”

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, we hear the powerful story of Amanda Smith, a survivor, mother, and advocate who rebuilt her life after escaping a cult and years of abuse. Amanda opens up about growing up in an environment of control and fear, losing her sense of identity, and the long road toward reclaiming her freedom and faith.

We explore how education became her turning point, how therapy and community helped her begin the healing process, and how she turned her pain into purpose as she rose to become the Assistant Vice President of Sales for a major insurance company in Arizona and Nevada. Amanda also reflects on the importance of recognizing trauma, breaking cycles of silence, and choosing to live beyond survival.

This episode is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of restoration. It offers inspiration for anyone determined to rebuild, heal, and find hope after hardship.

Connect with Amanda Smith:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/leave_toxic_relationships/ 

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

“There’s no real work-life balance, only intentional choices. You can’t be everywhere, but you can be present where it counts.”

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, we sit down with Mark Dunlop, a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO who has built multiple successful companies from the ground up. Mark shares his journey from his first sales job to scaling a company to $32 million in under a decade, and how he navigated the challenges of leadership, trust, and company culture along the way.

We explore the keys to effective sales, the importance of relationships over revenue, and how building systems and infrastructure can create long-term business success. Mark also discusses the art of delegating, empowering employees, and embracing technology and AI to innovate and grow in the healthcare space.

This episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to level up their business strategy, strengthen leadership skills, and build a company that thrives on trust, culture, and innovation.

Connect with Mark Dunlop:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/markdunlop24/

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

“We often wear stress like it’s a sign of strength, when in reality it’s our body’s way of whispering that something within us needs rest, peace, and divine healing.”

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, we welcome Christine Marie, a faith-driven wellness advocate and creator of the 75-Day Cortisol Reset. Christine shares her powerful story of battling burnout, misdiagnosis, and hormonal imbalance and how God used that journey to restore her body, renew her mind, and redefine her purpose.

Together, we unpack the connection between faith, brain science, and healing, exploring how the mind and body respond to chronic stress, the impact of trauma on health, and the spiritual discipline of rest. Christine also opens up about breaking free from perfectionism, finding peace beyond motherhood, and using nutrition and Scripture as tools for transformation.

This episode invites you to slow down, listen to your body, and trust that healing is not just about getting better but about becoming whole.

Connect with Christine Marie:

• Web: https://www.itschristinemarie.com/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/cortisol_coach
• FB: https://www.facebook.com/thechristinemarieofficial/
• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

“Behind the filters, trends, and algorithms, many creators struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, and the fear of not being enough.”

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, I sit down with Ryan Stevens, a leader and content strategist who believes that real growth begins with authenticity. Ryan opens up about his own journey of rebuilding with purpose, learning to trust God’s timing, stay grounded in integrity, and use every setback as preparation for what’s ahead.

Together, we talk about how authenticity builds real trust, how confidence grows from consistency, and how true success is not measured by speed or status but by faithfulness and focus. Ryan also shares how mindset plays a powerful role in leadership, helping you move from self-doubt to self-worth and from striving to steady progress.

This conversation is a masterclass in confidence, personal growth, and staying true to who you are while building something that impacts others.

Connect with Ryan Stevens:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Ryan23Stevens/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@iRuleSocialMedia

IG: https://www.instagram.com/irulesocialmedia/

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

 In this episode of Intentional Improvement, I sit down with Omar El-Takrori, content creator, entrepreneur, and pastor, who is also the visionary behind The Department. From filming YouTube videos in high school to helping Think Media reach more than 70 million views, Omar’s journey is a story of faith, stewardship, and consistency. After years of serving behind the scenes, he stepped out to build his own brand, turning his creativity and calling into a thriving business that impacts people around the world.

Omar shares what it truly takes to build a brand that lasts, one grounded in clarity, character, and Kingdom principles. He opens up about the lessons he learned from mentors who helped shape his approach to communication, community, and purpose. From mastering the art of persuasive storytelling to building a creative space in Las Vegas, Omar reveals the strategies, mindset, and spiritual focus that helped him grow from creator to faith-centered leader.

This conversation is a guide for anyone ready to build with purpose, lead with integrity, and trust God’s direction in both business and life.

Connect with Omar El-Takrori:

Web: https://www.thevideodept.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-el-takrori-49258433/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/c/OmarEltakrori

IG: https://www.instagram.com/omareltakrori

Other Links: https://go.thevideodept.co/content-to-cash

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, I sit down with Molly Gomez, founder of Signature Story Co. and a woman who turned rejection into a platform for impact. Once a high-performing news anchor, Molly walked away from the industry when she refused to compromise truth for ratings. With only $2,000 in her bank account, she packed her car, moved to Southern California, and began the climb of building something entirely her own.

Molly opens up about what it really takes to step into your God-given gift and share your story with the world. Together, we explore the mindset shifts needed to silence doubt, the stages of building confidence, and the practical steps to move from silence to speaking on podcasts, virtual platforms, and even paid stages. Her story is one of faith, resilience, and boldness, and it will challenge you to stop hiding behind your business, show up with clarity and confidence, and use your own story as the bridge to your next level.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• Why storytelling is the most powerful tool for building trust and connection
• How communication goes beyond public speaking to create real impact
• The role of vulnerability and transparency in growing your brand and influence
• Why repetition is key to making your Signature Story stick
• Why the greatest resistance often comes from those closest to you
• How to develop thick skin while keeping a soft heart
• The mindset shifts needed to silence doubt and step into your gift
• Why your story isn’t just for you but is meant to serve others
• The power of taking action before perfection
• Why generosity and sharing freely attract greater opportunities
• The importance of discerning God’s voice over fear and doubt

About the Guest:

Molly Trotter-Gomez is a High-Performance Speaker Coach, Kingdom Business & Brand Strategist, and the founder of Signature Story Co. Known for her bold transition from CBS news anchor to international speaker and trainer, Molly helps leaders unlock the power of their voice and story. With over a decade of experience, she has worked with CEOs, coaches, and entrepreneurs to craft Signature Stories that build trust, create connection, and drive impact. 

Connect with Molly Trotter-Gomez:

Web: https://signaturestoryco.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/molly.trotter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-trotter/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mollytrotter

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Molly_trotter_gomez

IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMfdhOmRzrM/

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

Want to schedule a home buyer consultation with Erica? 

Fill out the contact form: https://erica.huntingtonandellis.com   

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, we sit down with James Silvas, international mindset specialist and founder of Be That 1%, to talk about what it really means to pursue purpose with resilience. James didn’t take the traditional route. He walked away from a college football opportunity, followed a spark he found in a psychology class, and leaned into a dream that didn’t come with a clear roadmap. 

James’s journey wasn’t easy. He started by charging just $20 for coaching and was even rejected by TEDx. But he didn’t give up. A surprise chance to speak at a Las Vegas day club gave him momentum, and he kept showing up for the life he believed in. Today, James helps people around the world build stronger mindsets and break through limits. If you stay committed and trust the process, it can truly lead to something great.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The origin of his “Be That 1%” philosophy
• How pain can be a powerful teacher and separator of excellence
• The importance of betting on yourself, even without a clear path
• Effective leadership starts with listening first
• Building trust and honoring diverse perspectives
• How transparent leadership crucial for team trust and performance
• Why corporate culture struggles without quick feedback
• How preparedness meets adaptability 
• Mastery is a continuous journey of reinvention
• Coaching means adapting
• How journaling turns invisible thoughts into visible change
• Wisdom begins with humility
• The hidden cost of success
• How to be the 1% who do what 99% won’t
• Loving yourself means honoring your truth

About the Guest: 

James Silvas is an International Mindset Specialist and Peak Performance Coach who teaches athletes, leaders, and high-performing teams how to clear their minds, break through fear, optimize their performance, and enhance the quality of their personal and professional lives.

Connect with James Silvas:

Website: https://www.jamessilvas.com/

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

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@JamesSilvas

X: https://x.com/SilvasSpeaks

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-that-1-podcast/id1330345445

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

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

Email: [email protected] 

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, we sit down with Steven Cohen, host of the Millennial Millionaire podcast and co-founder of Sunder Energy. Steven’s journey from a modest upbringing in Las Vegas to building a solar energy empire is a story of grit, mindset shifts, and relentless faith. Though his family didn’t have much money, Steven believed in something greater. College showed him a new path, not the one he first imagined, but one filled with learning, growth, and hard work.

Steven’s journey wasn’t easy. He faced doubts and setbacks while building his career in sales and solar energy. But through it all, he held onto hope and kept moving forward. Today, he shares how believing in yourself and embracing challenges can lead to real success. This episode reminds us that our greatest strength lies in persistence and a hopeful heart.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• How real wisdom comes from lived experience
• How scarcity mindset blocks growth
• Why betting on yourself is the biggest challenge and key to success
• Your job isn't security
• How entrepreneurship grows you from the inside out
• Why most people die with their dreams
• Success is the steady pursuit of what truly matters to you
• What people will say at your funeral
• Healing yourself helps you heal others 
• Parents is the true essence of leadership
• The importance of social media presence for impact today
• The value of peace as a key ingredient to a fulfilling life

About the Guest: 

Steven Cohen is the co-founder of Sunder Energy, a top solar energy company in the U.S. He's an 8-figure sales leader and keynote speaker known for building high-performing teams, mentoring others in sales and leadership, and helping people grow in business and personal development.

Connect with Steven Cohen:

Website: https://sunderenergy.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steven.cohen.566

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stevencohen2832

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

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/millennial-millionaire/id1655406812

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

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

Email: [email protected] 

In this episode with Jeremy Christensen, I sit down with the founder and executive director of Freedom Classical Academy. Jeremy’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—he went from growing up in a tiny town of just 250 people to securing millions in funding to build one of the top-performing charter schools in Las Vegas. Jeremy opens up about how his childhood experiences shaped his passion for education and fueled his drive to make a lasting impact. 

He shares the powerful story of starting his school from scratch, armed with only a dream and an unwavering determination. Despite facing countless challenges along the way, Jeremy never gave up. Instead, he turned each setback into the motivation to push forward. He also reveals how he discovered classical education and why it resonated so deeply with him, sparking his mission to offer a different kind of learning experience.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The power of questioning what you believe is possible
• How new environments can shift your perspective
• The difference between modern and classical education
• Why classical education focuses on self-actualization and timeless values
• What it truly means to be human
• The impact of including God in education
• The peace that comes from trusting God's plan
• The legal, cultural, and emotional challenges of launching a school
• What happens when you ignore God's call
• The surprising relationship between pain and leadership
• How classical education fosters true freedom
• Why Jeremy fills his cup to pour out hope and love
• The value of spiritual discipline when facing hard truths

About the Guest: 

Jeremy Christensen is a small-town kid who never imagined a future in education. After a life-changing mission trip to Brazil and an unexpected start in a charter school, he found his calling. Today, he’s the CEO and Executive Director of Freedom Classical Academy, where he leads with heart, purpose, and a strong belief in character-driven education.

Connect with Jeremy Christensen:

Website: https://www.freedomclassical.org/staff

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-christensen-6901614/

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected] 

In this episode of Intentional Improvement, I’m joined by Craig Tann, an extraordinary leader, business owner, and mentor who has led his team of just 140 agents to achieve over $1.3 billion in real estate sales. Craig shares the story behind the success, beginning with his middle-class upbringing in Long Island and tracing his path to becoming the broker of one of the most respected real estate firms in Las Vegas.

We talk about the early days of uncertainty, the discomfort of stepping into sales as an introvert, and the mindset it takes to face rejection and risk head-on. He believes that success isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about who you become in the process. If you’ve ever felt stuck, feared failure, or wondered if you have what it takes to step into something greater, this conversation will speak directly to you. Take the time to listen today.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• How getting comfortable with rejection can change your entire business
• The impact of shifting your inner dialogue on building confidence
• Why setting standards is key to building the right team
• What makes a great salesperson?
• How pressure can be a privilege for empathetic leaders
• The dangers of unrealistic expectations in business
• The pitfalls of comparing your progress to others
• How church leadership can teach business growth skills
• Is there truly a work life balance?
• The tough decision to let go of underperforming agents
• The need for higher standards in hiring
• The value of enjoying the journey and reflecting on progress
• The power of the pause

About the Guest: 

Craig Tann is a trusted name in Las Vegas real estate, with over 22 years of experience helping people find their perfect homes. He’s the founder of Huntington & Ellis, a real estate agency known for great service and trusted results. He’s also known for his professionalism, deep knowledge of the market, and the genuine care he shows to every client, agent, and fellow broker he works with. 

Connect with Craig Tann:

Website: https://huntingtonandellis.com/

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

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

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@huntingtonandellis

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr 
• Email: [email protected]