Life Shift™ | Pivotal Moments & Life Change

Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt speaks with photographer and drum teacher Hondu Knight.

Hondu shares this journey to sobriety and the moments that triggered his addiction. Most importantly, we discuss how he stays sober daily and the everyday struggles that try to pull him from his 6+ year sobriety.

He reminds all listeners to find the right people who support you no matter what demons you are fighting. Those are the ones to hold close.

To listen in on more conversations about life-changing moments, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For more information, please visit: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

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Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

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Hondu Knight

www.honduknight.com

www.instagram.com/yeahsure

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by educator, award-winning professional artist, and entrepreneur Heather Torres.

Heather shares her story of when her 18-year marriage ended unexpectedly and changed everything she knew about herself and the world around her.

Listen as Heather tells us how she went from what she considered happily married to separated and divorced within three months. Then, less than five months later, she found herself forced to face her grief head-on while living through the pandemic—Heather shares how some of the most difficult challenges in life can lead to profound growth and strength.

Finally, hear what Heather would say to herself if she could return to the moment when her life shifted.

To listen in on more conversations about life-changing moments, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For more information, please visit: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

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Heather Torres

http://heathertorresart.com/

Heather Torres is a mother, award-winning professional artist, entrepreneur, and the Director of Graduate Programs at a media arts university in Florida. Before working in education, Heather worked for over a decade as a sales professional, corporate trainer, marketing consultant, and Internet marketing department manager for a national property management company. She is a watercolor and acrylic fine artist and currently specializes in promoting fine art, art education, illustration and book publishing, exhibition curation, and event management. You can check out her artwork at www.heathertorrresart.com. Heather Torres has a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from the University of Central Florida and a Master's in Business Administration from Belhaven University. She expects to finish her doctorate in Business Administration from California Southern University in 2022.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by communication extraordinaire José I. Rodríguez.

Dr. J shares his story of connection through mentorship. He shares the milestones in his journey, from meeting his mentor in class to building a strong working relationship, witnessing his final words, and finally fulfilling his mentor’s last wish.

Listen as Dr. J tells us how he centers all communication on human connection and works with educators, business leaders, and community members to co-create unique solutions for common communication dilemmas in our changing world.

Finally, hear what Dr. J would say to himself and his mentor if he could return to the beginning.

To listen in on more conversations about life-changing moments, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For more information, please visit: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Dr. José I. Rodríguez

@JRodriguez_PhD (J. Rodriguez, Ph.D.) - Twittter

https://www.joserodriguez.solutions/

José I. Rodríguez, Ph.D., aka Dr. J Communication, is at the heart of human connection. It is foundational. It is fundamental. Dr. José I. Rodríguez has helped people become better communicators for over two decades. His work cuts across boundaries in education, business, and contemporary culture to uncover how messages matter in the moments of living. As a Professor of Communication Studies at Long Beach State, Dr. Rodríguez has received awards for the quality of his research from the National Communication Association, International Communication Association, and Association of Teacher Educators.

His work has been featured on TEDxCSULB, ABC7 Eyewitness News, and KMEX 34 Univision in Los Angeles. He has also served as a trainer and consultant for public and private organizations across the nation, working to create cultures of belonging one conversation at a time. Today, with the mind of a data scientist, the heart of a coach, and the spirit of a savvy strategist, Dr. Rodríguez is partnering with educators, business leaders, and community members to co-create unique solutions for common communication dilemmas in our changing world.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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** This episode may contain content that is upsetting to some. Please read the notes below before listening. **

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by Free Skin Co. business owner, branding, and marketing leader Ashley Pereira.

Ashley shares deeply personal stories about her physically and sexually abusive upbringing. She shares the milestones in her journey, from leaving the situation to a devastatingly dark moment of a suicide attempt.

Listen as Ashley tells us how she moved through life after her abusive upbringing and how some of the trauma manifested as an adult. Then we learn how she made it through the darkest moment and to the light, purpose-driven life she currently leads.

Finally, hear what Ashley would say to the younger version of herself in those dark moments.

To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you'd like to support the show's recording and hosting costs, please visit www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Ashley Pereira

Ashley Pereira LinkedIn

Free Skin Co. Website

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by English teacher, world traveler, and advertising and public relations graduate Noelle Cheaib.

Noelle talks about the journey to finding purpose and a place that feels like home, triggered by a “hurry up and wait” process to return to Spain after a study abroad experience years earlier.

Listen as Noelle tells stories about getting the phone call about the opportunity to move to Spain and having to move quickly. And Noelle shares how she adjusted as the pandemic started only a few months after she moved to Spain.

Finally, hear what Noelle has to say about life in Spain compared to the United States and how she hopes to stay and continue building her life overseas.

To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you'd like to support the show's recording and hosting costs, please visit www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Noelle Cheaib

Noelle Cheaib on Instagram

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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In this update episode, I wanted to share exciting news about starting to record new episodes again and some equipment upgrades. I also wanted to share a few previews of the upcoming episodes through October 18, 2022.

In this episode, I discuss:

Upcoming Episode Preview:

Noelle Cheaib - Moving to another country can be so exciting. But what is it like finding "home" in a new country right when the world shuts down?

Ashley Pereira - Our childhood traumas can shape so much. Eventually, we might break, but what blooms after is so very beautiful in this story.

Dr. J. Rodriguez - Finding a mentor is a blessing. But getting to fulfill a mentor's final wish is a life-changing thing.

Heather Torres - Perfect life, right? Think again. This story shows resilience and finding the real meaning of life after a sudden, unexpected divorce.

Hondu Knight - Addiction is real. It can be deadly. But, if you are lucky, you find the space and grace to recover and inspire others.

Cory Keith - Retiring in your 30s from public service can turn into diving into your own rules and running a successful business.

Erica Kelly - Infertility's ups and downs, and the surprises of discovering that one of your unborn TWINS may have special needs.

Jenny Wood - Why not? Take risks because what if they work out? This episode is a fun story of chasing a stranger off a subway train (in a good way).

Rob Cressy - Literally, how positive affirmations and thoughts can save someone's life just as the lights are fading.

Thank you for being a part of this community of storytelling!

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by Real Estate Agent, Broadway and Television Hair and Wig Supervisor, and former podcaster Melissa Matto. She's worked on numerous Broadway shows, the Today Show, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and multiple Netflix Series.

Melissa talks about the journey to finding her true passion, triggered by a sudden phone call she received while heading to the airport in an Uber. The hospital called to tell her that her father had passed suddenly.

Listen as Melissa tells compelling tales of how her journey changed after the phone call. We discuss the new perspectives her life shift provided and why she chose to chase new passions.

Finally, hear what Melissa would tell others facing the loss of someone so close.

To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you'd like to support the show's recording and hosting costs, please visit www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Melissa Matto

Melissa Matto Instagram

MelissaMatto.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by the Founder and Owner of Spaces of Grey, speech-language pathologist, Ayurvedic Health Counselor, and writer Erin Browning.

Erin talks about witnessing the sudden death of her partner. It was sudden and tragic, but the conversation centers around the signs around her on the day of the tragedy.

Listen as Erin shares moments about his passing that truly affected how she would go on without her partner. She hopes you can take moments away from the conversation about death, grief, purpose, and how we can all learn from the little moments that come before.

Finally, hear what Erin would tell others facing the loss of someone so close.

To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you'd like to support the show's recording and hosting costs, please visit www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Erin Browning

Erin-Browning.com

Erin Browning on Instagram

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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In this episode of 'The Life Shift Podcast,' host Matt Gilhooly talks with Tony Award-winning artist Levi Kreis. This episode delves deep into Levi's transformative journey from the throes of addiction to the pinnacle of Broadway success. It's a raw, intimate exploration of personal struggles, the power of self-acceptance, and the relentless pursuit of one's true self. Levi opens up about his battles with addiction, the challenge of finding self-worth, and the ultimate realization of self-love through his unique artistic expression.

Key Takeaways:

• Levi's candid sharing of his addiction battle reveals the importance of self-forgiveness in the journey to recovery. His experience underscores how acknowledging and releasing self-blame is crucial for personal healing and growth.

• Levi illustrates the transformative power of authentic self-expression, particularly in the arts. His journey from addiction to a celebrated Broadway performer highlights how embracing one's true self can lead to profound healing and professional success.

• The conversation with Levi brings to light the ongoing nature of self-love and resilience. He emphasizes that self-love is an active, daily practice, not just a state of being, and that discipline plays a significant role in maintaining personal growth and sobriety.

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Levi Kreis

Levikreis.com

Imagine Paradise Podcast

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Welcome back to The Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations about the pivotal moments that change lives forever!

In this episode, Matt is joined by Speaking Coach, Marketer, Instructor, and LinkedIn strategist Diane Diaz.

Diane talks about the journey to finding her confidence and grit, fueled by an abusive and mostly absent father, and how she vied never to repeat the cycle.

Listen as Diane tells compelling tales of how she found herself in an emotionally abusive relationship in college and how just two words changed the trajectory of the rest of her life.

Finally, hear what Diane would tell her younger self and how she found the courage to ask for help.

To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate our show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you'd like to support the show's recording and hosting costs, please visit: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com.

Special Thanks:

Intro/Outro Music: Motivated by Alex MakeMusic from Pixabay

Links:

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Diane Diaz

Speaking Your Brand

Diane Diaz LinkedIn Profile

Diane is a Lead Speaking Coach with Speaking Your Brand®, whose mission is to help more women develop the communication skills, platform, and confidence to step into thought leadership, influence, and power, on stages, in the media, in business, on boards, and in politics. This company exists because it's through women’s stories, voices, and visibility, that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems to benefit more people.

Diane regularly speaks on thought leadership, personal branding, LinkedIn strategy, and women's empowerment. She also teaches branding and marketing classes at Full Sail University, holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Central Florida, and has many years of experience in branding, marketing, public speaking, and education. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards

https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024

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