Peace and Possibilities

What can I say… I'm in awe of my guest this week, Gretchen Carlson.

You may recognize her name from the news over the past few years. She's also had a few movies made about her journey.

Why is she a guest on my podcast?

Because after a very successful career and some exciting accomplishments, her life took an unexpected detour.

And instead of crawling under a rock, she fought back.

Because of her bravery and persistence, she has turned her trials into a purposeful career making sure the rest of us do not have to endure what she had to endure.

In my opinion, this is the definition of a hero. And a true example of what's possible.

She's been an integral part of getting some very important legislation passed, so that we don't have to turn a blind eye when we're being mistreated in the work place. We have been empowered to speak up.

And it's all because Gretchen did what we all say we'll do. She said she'd make a change, and then didn't stop until she was finished.

So, when you wake up tomorrow and see all that's going wrong in our world, then talk about all the injustices as if we have no power, please remember this story.

We have the power to evoke change. We just have to commit to it. Use your time for that instead.

Then, anything will be possible.

More about Gretchen:

Gretchen Carlson is a fierce, fearless and internationally recognized advocate for women's rights, whose bold actions against Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes helped pave the way for the global #MeToo movement. A former CBS News and Fox News journalist, author, TED talk alum, and champion for workplace equality, Carlson was named one of Time Magazine's "100 Most Influential People in the World". She's the co-founder of the non-profit Lift Our Voices which works to end silencing mechanisms in the workplace that keep toxic issues secret and the author of the New York Times bestseller "Be Fierce" and "Getting Real". Carlson's story of harassment and retaliation at Fox News has garnered international attention, including the Showtime mini-series "The Loudest Voice" and movie "Bombshell."

Her signature achievement since igniting an international movement is the passage of the "Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act" in March of this year. Working with a bi-partisan coalition of legislators in Congress over the last five years, the bill passed both the House and the Senate in February 2022 making it the biggest labor law change in the last 100 years.

GretchenCarlson.com

LIftOurVoices.org

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

My guest this week is from Vienna, Austria. I'm interested in talking to people who love what they do in any part of the world, so others can see what's possible for them! (So if you have any recommendations for guests, send them my way.)

Ronny Leber is entertaining people at stadiums and events all around the world. And you'll be amazed at his story.

What's moving me? What is it? What do I want to learn?

These are just some of the questions he's asked himself along the way.

He worked with Tony Robbins half of his life, putting on cool events all over the world. Events always excited him; he wanted to be a part of them. And because of this passion to be in front of people, he wanted to be better at everything: entertaining, singing, acting, dancing, and speaking.

So he just sat back and dreamt of it - no just kidding. He learned to do all of those things better, so that he could reach his goals. It's called taking action. No matter how small, action is key.

Then, on November 4, 2018, he ran a marathon in NY, after being unable to train due to an injury, and told himself: forget everything you think you know; your desire will stand the test of time. Period.

Then he told himself: I'm going to finish today!

Just like the marathon he finally finished that day, he encourages us to keep moving forward. Everyone has setbacks. You will eventually get there! It's inevitable (but only if you keep moving).

More about Ronny:

https://www.ronnyleber.com/en/

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

Karen Sherman is my guest this week on my 118th podcast. The Peace and Possibilities Podcast is making things possible.

She's been involved in international development for years, helping advance women around the world, and even working with women survivors of war. As a young college graduate, she found herself in a foreign country at a summit, realizing this was going to be her path. Once you hear her journey, you'll see she's quite the inspiration.

As she built her career, along the way, she kept asking herself, how can I develop and advance women?

So she said yes to everything. Though saying yes to everything has its advantages, it's also a struggle to continue; then we think "no" will be taken as a sign of weakness.

As I've talked to almost 120 people on my podcast, I've concluded that it's actually the opposite. There is strength in the "no".

Saying no proves you're strong!

And a few other helpful words from Karen:

• Every woman has a story.
• Your story is your superpower.
• No is a complete sentence.
• Be open to what's possible, while embracing a growth mindset.
• Making and having choices is a gift!

Finally, Karen encourages us to consider, as you're waiting for the next door to open, look for a window.

More about Karen:

Karen L Sherman is the Founder and CEO of Virunga Mountain Spirits, a new world- class craft distillery based in Rwanda, where she has worked for close to two decades. The business will employ and upskill Rwandans at every level of operations, with an emphasis on creating opportunities for women.

Throughout her 30-plus year career, Karen Sherman served in executive and leadership roles working to advance women around the world, in partnership with women on the frontlines, in offices and boardrooms. She has sat with leaders of all levels – heads of state, ambassadors, business and civic leaders – and speaks and writes passionately about the challenges and opportunities for women globally.

Links:

Website: https://www.karensherman.org/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/karsherman

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-sherman-76115016/

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

Lyndosha Jamison is my guest this week on The Peace and Possibilities Podcast.

Like almost everyone I've talked to in the last 2 1/2 years and almost 120 episodes, her career path didn't follow a straight line. Go figure! (News flash: it rarely does.)

From her winding journey to attorney (she knew at the age of 3 after watching a TV show), she kept asking herself, what do I have to do now?

One of the special things she mentioned was that she was always protected by her mom and aunt, and she learned what her gifts were very early. They never discouraged her from trying new things either. Ever! This is especially important to budding young brains. Who knows what kids will discover if we let them try!

She learned her gifts early! Wow, what a concept, huh?

And then she picked work that aligned with her gifts. Hmmm, another brilliant concept…

Her advice: welcome the awareness of discovering, and recognize when you need to let something go. Be intentional and nurture those gifts you find.

And like many of my guests have recommended regarding their leadership advice; keep asking yourself, what's the reason you're doing what you are doing? What is your intention? This always helps clarify the next step along your path.

More about Lyndosha:

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

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

I'm thrilled to talk with the fabulous author, Gay Hendricks (of the incredible book, The Big Leap), on this week's episode of The Peace and Possibilities Podcast. He's amazingly positive and full of light and great wisdom.

I can't wait for you to listen to his very interesting journey to self improvement and a lifetime of helping others.

As he struggled to find his path and incorporate all of his interests, at one point, one of his mentors said to him, "Hey, why don't you combine your interests?"

Aha! What an idea, thought Gay. And the rest is history.

He assures us, as you discover things along your journey, the universe is delighted to tickle you with a feather or a mallet? Either way, listen.

Find something that lights you up in two dimensions:

1. Love it, with your heart.
2. Does your work make a genuine contribution to others' lives?

Then, integrate something you love into the role, even if it's not what you want to be doing long term.

Talk to those people who have great confidence in you and listen to them! Believe them!

When you do find that thing that lights you up, ask yourself:

How can I make more of my life like this?

And he recommends focusing on this genius aspect of your gifts and learning how to express more of them in the world. And this will make it so you can have a delicious life.

What makes you get out of bed every morning with a "wow, I get to do this another day"? Find your sweet spot of creativity and be electrified!

Finally, says Gay, "Peace of mind comes from total participation in your life."

Yes, yes, yes, I say!

Peace, it's one of the most important things in life to strive for…

More about Gay:

Gay Hendricks has been a leader in the fields of relationship transformation and bodymind transformation for more than 45 years. After earning his Ph.D. from Stanford in 1974, Gay served as Professor of Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado for 21 years. He has written more than 40 books, including bestsellers such as Five Wishes, The Big Leap, Conscious Loving and Conscious Loving Ever After, (the last two co-authored with his co-author and mate for more than 35 years, Dr. Kathlyn Hendricks). He is also a mystery novelist, with a series of five books featuring the Tibetan-Buddhist private detective, Tenzing Norbu, as well as a new mystery series featuring a Victorian-era London detective, Sir Errol Hyde. His book Conscious Luck reveals eight ways to change your fortunes through the power of intention. Gay has appeared on more than 500 radio and television shows, including Oprah, CNN, CNBC, 48 HOURS and others. His new book, The Genius Zone, was published in June, 2021.

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

"I kind of want to do it my way", said Kassy. And be true to that.

My guest this week is Kassy LaBorie and boy does she love what she does!

We shared so many great insights during our conversation.

Some of the many questions we both agree are so important.

Ask yourself: what intrinsically motivates you?

If you're feeling unmotivated, what can you do to reinvigorate your passion/inspiration?

Because, if you're not motivated, the struggle won't get you out of it.

Also:

• What do you value and what makes you happy?
• What can't you stop talking about and learning about?
• Who can you reach out to that can help?
• Who are you jealous of?
• What keeps getting your attention?

And while you're figuring all of this out, can you contribute to someone else's success? Who knows, they might just inspire you too.

No matter what questions you ask, you don't have to know it all, but you do need to know what you need.

It's okay to NOT know. It's allowed. Today, do something; evolve by asking questions.

More about Kassy:

Kassy LaBorie is the principal consultant at Kassy LaBorie Consulting, LLC. She is a speaker, instructional designer, classroom facilitator, and author who specializes in virtual learning, teams, and live online technology. Kassy is passionate about helping organizations, learning teams, and training professionals successfully move to the virtual environment.

Connect with her on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Find Kassy sharing tips on Twitter @KassyConsulting

For more information about Kassy, visit her website: www.KassyConsulting.com

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

For my guest this week on The Peace and Possibilities Podcast, exercise is not a chore, it's a passion.

As we talked about Sara McSpedon's career journey to becoming an entrepreneur with Mayweather Fitness, one of the keys to her success is that her team keeps her going; they are her support system.

Doing any job well and digging in and asking questions are a few recommendations for anyone trying to make it in their career. I'd say this applies to life too. Doing any and every job well is something you'll never regret.

One of her best tips for success and leadership is this: if you have a passion, than you'll be successful. Though each one of us has a different vision of success.

We also talked about leading by example, always. Show others how to be/act/lead, by being, acting, and leading that way yourself.

And whether you are officially leading a team or not, surround yourself with people that elevate you. This is possible no matter what your role, in your career and in your personal life.

Finally, Sara asks: do you have a healthy practice? Find a regular practice that makes you healthier each day. It could be exercise, meditation, or eating better. Even daily gratitude (especially daily gratitude), will make you healthier.

Whether you already know your passion or not, are living your dream or not, or simply can't figure your life out yet, don't give up on the daily happiness that's truly possible, every step of the way.

More about Sara:

Sara V. McSpedon, Franchise Owner, Chicago

+ B.S. Television, Radio, Film Management Minor: Business Administration

+ MBA, Finance: Fordham University

+ MTV Networks, Sales & Marketing (1998- 2007)

+ Pops for Champagne, Managing Partner (2007-2018)

+ Orangetheory Fitness Coach, Chicago & Suburbs (2014-2018)

+ Mayweather B+F River North & North Shore, Owner (2019- present)

+ A.C.E. Certified Fitness Instructor

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

My guest this week on The Peace and Possibilities Podcast started out as a consultant, because, as she said when she learned what it meant, "I like that".

Stephanie Hart loved sales and saw what she could be, but she wanted to do her own thing and have no constraints.

So after working hard for years, she eventually created Pineapple Coconut cake and people responded with fervor.

Well, the path wasn't actually that simple, as you can imagine. It never usually is, but it's still our path. And we must endure to get to the other side.

From the many challenges Stephanie faced to finally opening her bakery, she has definitely endured a lot to get where she is.

Her advice to you? Ask yourself "do you REALLY want to do this?"

And something she and I believe with all of our hearts:

How you think impacts EVERYTHING!

Understanding this is paramount to your success!

Finally, from Stephanie's many words of wisdom: "All of my glasses are rose colored - what's the alternative?"

More about Stephanie:

In 2022 She is celebrating 20 years in business, now with a location in Navy Pier, and preparing to renovate the newly acquired Cupid candies factory, that now house Brown Sugar Bakeries new candy line "Life is Sweet" and being nominated in the 2019 James Beard award for "Outstanding Pastry Chef"

Stephanie feels strongly about building community and sharing our culture with the world, which created the mission statement: We make delicious products. Celebrating our culture by serving our community to further cultivate and define the best of our experience, one amazing bite at a time.

Brown Sugar Bakery, Chicago

www.brownsugarbakerychicago.com

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

Is this weekly newsletter typically about fitness? Not really. Not physical fitness anyway.

But when fitness and health impact your peace and happiness, then of course it relates to peace and possibilities. Which, incidentally, is almost all of the time.

My guest this week, Erin Stutland, is full of great ideas to get your life and body moving in the right direction.

The first is to consider which core values you were born with.

Then strive to align those values with your passions. Sounds simple, I know. It actually is, if you get quiet for a few minutes and just ask yourself a few questions.

Then - and this is the most important part - go for it!

Take those risks to get what you want. How else will you get there?

And when you are rejected, and you will be, ask yourself "what's the learning or growing I need to do?"

And, as Erin so beautifully put it, obsession does not equal a solution.

Obsessing about a problem, worrying about it, stressing about it, is not the same as figuring out the solution. If it was, stress and worry would always lead to peace and clarity. But it doesn't. It leads to more stress.

And as many wise people have told us: failure is a part of success, not the opposite of success.

Remember, when taking risks and trying to figure it all out:

As Brad Yates says: whenever we make a choice, two outcomes are possible; neither is final or permanent.

Decide, take the risk, maybe get rejected. And then choose something else. Get used to this; this is life!

More about Erin:

Erin Stutland is a renowned author, a mind-body wellness expert, CEO and mom. She was the host and life-style coach of Z Living's cable series, Altar'd which was nominated for a Real Screen award alongside Oprah's Super Soul Sunday.

Stutland's best-selling book, Mantras in Motion: Manifesting What You Want through Mindful Movement, (Hay House) explores her proprietary approach to creating meaningful change by harnessing all the body's mental, physical, and spiritual energy through a series of stories, journaling exercises, meditations and movement.

Her on-demand app, The Movement helps users all over the world incorporate simple self-care practices that include mindful workouts, meditations and her signature Soul Strolls. She has appeared on The Rachael Ray Show, People.com, Fox News, Glamour Magazine and more.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/erin.stutland/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/EStutland https://erinstutland.com/book/

https://erinstutland.com/the-movement/

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book

My guest this week is Drew Dudley (cool name, huh?).

Because he specializes in leadership topics, and I think he's really smart, I'm excited to share what he knows/what he's learned.

I believe we really can lead from any seat, as I learned from the illuminating Benjamin Zander years ago when I saw him speak at a conference. His presence was electric. And it inspired me to read his books about possibilities, sparking a fire I've had kindling ever since.

Drew urges us to accept that anyone who acts engaging and is doing or demonstrating something, is indeed a leader. I completely agree!

No matter what your role or place in life, when you have a story, it's important to share your story. You simply never know who is in the audience. Right then, or later, people will often respond with, "I thought I was the only one". It's almost never true.

And more importantly, the stories we're most embarrassed to share, are the ones we need to tell.

When we chatted about success and failure, and thinking that if we try something, or take a risk, we might not survive, Drew urges us to tell him or someone about a time you didn't survive.

Spoiler alert: you can't! You can't because you have survived. You're alive and that's proof that you can survive anything. So there's zero evidence that you won't survive. So stop being afraid of that, at least.

As far as risks go, we can almost never be certain of something so instead, be decisive.

Get comfortable being uncertain.

Finally, from the hard won wisdom of Drew, momentum is more important than plans. Yes indeed. Because we all know the best laid plans…

So, go build your momentum, decide something, be uncertain, and see what's possible! You will survive - you have your proof now!

Listen in to see what else he's survived and lived to tell about.

More about Drew:

www.drewdudley.com and the book is The Book - Drew Dudley.

https://www.drewdudley.com/the-book/

And check out my bestselling book:

Peace, Possibilities, and Perspective: 8 Secrets to Serenity and Satisfaction in Your Life and Career

https://2possibilityandbeyond.com/my-book