In this insightful episode of the Pulse Ox Podcast, host Eric Stopper welcomes Jonathan Westover – professor, departmental chair, and organizational leadership expert at Utah Valley University. Not only is Jonathan Westover a father of six and a prolific researcher, but he also brings a thoughtful, candid perspective on intuition, inspiration, and how serendipity can catalyze career-defining moments.They dive deep into Dr. Westover’s winding academic journey, from BYU to his challenging doctoral dissertation defense at the University of Utah. Listen as he recounts how a tense, politically charged Q&A session sparked a flash of mind-opening inspiration, helping him to clearly articulate—and ultimately reframe—the premise of his research on international employee motivation and job satisfaction. You’ll hear how this moment didn’t just silence a difficult critic, but also became the foundation for over 15 years of continued research.The conversation explores the science and magic of “flow state,” the importance of over-preparing yet going with the flow, and why hard work and “getting in the zone” are indispensable to productivity and creativity. They also discuss how physiological and spiritual experiences—like feeling elevation emotion or that “still small voice”—intersect with our professional and personal lives, especially in the high-pressure moments we all face.Whether you’re fascinated by organizational theory, curious about the intersection of spirituality and neuroscience, or simply want to hear a candid story of overcoming adversity, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, relatable insights, and genuine vulnerability.Highlights:Dr. Westover’s reflections on intuition in critical momentsNavigating departmental politics as a doctoral candidateBreaking ground in cross-national motivation researchThe power of flow state and daily rituals for productivitySpirituality, physiology, and the “elevation emotion”Why there’s no substitute for doing the workConnect with Dr. Jonathan Westover:Find him easily on LinkedIn—just search “Jonathan Westover”.Enjoyed the episode? Please like, subscribe, and share with a friend!00:00 Defense Challenges and Academic Tensions06:32 Dissertation Critique and Response07:46 Global Context in Job Motivation13:30 Power of Flow State14:33 "Inspiration Requires Effortful Preparation"17:59 Physiology, Experience, and Hymns

Show Notes: The Pulse Ox Podcast – Sophia West: Awakening the Inner WisdomIn this transformative episode of The Pulse Ox Podcast, host Eric Stopper sits down with Sophia West of Noetic Alchemy for a deeply personal and enlightening conversation about finding one’s true path and purpose. Sophia West shares the powerful moment that changed the trajectory of her life—a realization at the top of the stairs between her teenage children’s bedrooms—leading her on an intense and exploratory journey of self-discovery and healing.Expect real talk on:The turning point that promptedSophia Westto break out of an unfulfilling life and how she summoned the courage for changeHer step-by-step dive into self-help books, energy healing, shamanic traditions, and the integration of ancient wisdom with modern practicesEssential resources and “cheat codes” for anyone wanting to start their own journey (spoiler: get your reading list ready!)The importance of tuning into intuition and how to strengthen that connection even if it’s something you’ve never experienced beforeParenting insights—whySophia Westfocuses on holding space and letting her children find their own paths instead of pushing spiritual beliefsA sneak peek into the Atlantean wisdoms courseSophia Westteaches, designed to unlock the wisdom we all hold withinWhether you’re at your own turning point or just curious about the world of energy healing, shamanism, and personal growth, this conversation is packed with wisdom, relatable stories, and actionable advice.Resources & Recommendations Mentioned“The Way of the Peaceful Warrior” by Dan Millman“The Celestine Prophecy”“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel RuizEnergy healing modalities (Reiki, shamanism)The Atlantean Book of Wisdom courseConnect with Sophia WestWebsite: sophiawest.comInstagram: @SophiaWestWellnessIf this episode resonated with you, give us a like on Spotify and share it with a friend on their own path of discovery!You’re not alone in your search for meaning or desire for change—step onto the landing with us and see what doors might open.00:00 "Choosing a New Path"03:50 "Books and Journey to Wellness"07:17 "Embrace Emotions, Find Yourself"10:12 "Embracing Intuition and Accountability"15:41 "Authentic Parenting and Belief Freedom"17:01 Guiding Kids to Explore Interests

In this episode of The Pulse Ox Podcast, host Eric welcomes serial entrepreneur, executive coach, and business advisor Kasey D’Amato for an inspiring deep-dive into building a purpose-driven life and business empire.

Kasey shares her incredible journey: from a dermatology PA in Los Angeles treating high-profile celebrity clients, to launching her own consulting firm and pioneering a natural medical-grade skincare line with international reach. Now, as an executive coach, Kasey specializes in helping founders and business owners create harmony between their business ambitions and personal fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:

From Overachiever to Aligned Empire-Builder: Kasey reveals her personal tipping point—managing multiple successful businesses simultaneously until it became unsustainable. She openly discusses burnout and the tough decisions every entrepreneur faces.

The Growth, Coast, Contract Framework: Learn Kasey’s exclusive strategy for managing multiple ventures, including how to decide which businesses deserve your “active growth” energy, which should “coast,” and which need to be “contracted” (but not killed!).

Entrepreneurial Focus vs. Serial Pursuits: Should you stick to one big venture and scale, or cultivate several at once? Kasey and Eric candidly compare notes on the challenges and temptations of juggling multiple projects and share practical advice for fellow entrepreneurs.

How to Handle Stress and Burnout: Kasey details her “Polaris Point”—the North Star vision aligning business, personal lifestyle, and legacy. She outlines her strategy for re-centering, surrounding yourself with three levels of “whos” (mentors, peers, and team), and bouncing back from setbacks with resilience.

Legacy, Lifestyle, and Impact: Get a peek into Kasey's own goals for the next three years, and how she consciously balances financial security, time freedom, and creating lasting impact for purpose-driven founders.

If you’re struggling to manage the chaos of entrepreneurship, yearning for fulfillment beyond just the numbers, or looking for actionable frameworks from someone who’s lived it—this episode is for you.

Connect with Kasey D’Amato:

LinkedIn: Kasey D'Amato (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaseydamato/)

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

If you found value in this conversation, please consider giving us a like on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube and sharing the episode with a friend!

In this powerful episode, host Eric Stopper sits down with Karen Frame, CEO and founder of Makena, a three-time entrepreneur, recovering attorney, and former CPA based in Boulder, Colorado. Karen brings a riveting personal story that began on the shores of Mannered Lake in Champaign, Illinois, where her childhood was shaped by the silent but devastating impacts of agricultural pesticides.Karen shares the heartbreaking effects those chemicals had on her family—illness, loss, and years of health struggles. Her firsthand account reveals how environmental factors can dramatically alter lives and why understanding what goes into our food and products is a mission she’s carried ever since.Key Highlights:A Childhood Epiphany: Discover how growing up alongside pesticide-sprayed cornfields not only changed Karen’s life but sparked her commitment to transparency in food and product ingredients.Personal Losses: Karen openly discusses her family’s health struggles—including losing loved ones and her own battle with thyroid cancer—drawing a direct line to her passion for advocacy.Building Makena: Learn why Karen’s experiences drove her to build companies focused on helping people find and afford healthier, safer products.Living the Mission: Karen talks candidly about buying better, balancing health and work, and how she uses her story to inspire and educate others.The Path to a Healthier World: Eric and Karen envision a future where education, better choices, and access democratize wellness for everyone. They discuss the challenges of resisting addictive products and why real change starts with knowledge and incentivization.If you’re interested in natural products, functional medicine, or simply want to know how one leader turned tragedy into lifelong advocacy, this episode is a must-listen. Karen’s insights will motivate you to reconsider the choices you make every day—and how those choices shape your health and your future.Connect with Karen Frame:Email: [email protected]: makeena.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karensframe/If you found this episode valuable, please give us a like on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube and share it with someone who needs to hear Karen’s story.

In this compelling episode of The Pulse Ox Podcast, host Eric Stopper sits down with Cliff Ravenscraft, a true legend in the world of podcasting and personal development. Known globally as the “Podcast Answer Man,” Cliff has spent 20 years, launched over 50 podcast shows, and recorded 4,800+ episodes—all while helping more than 40,000 people start their own podcasts. But what happens when you walk away from a thriving business and start over, guided only by an inner calling?Key Highlights:Spiritual Awakening & Deconstruction (Autobiography of a Yogi): Cliff shares his profound spiritual journey during the pandemic, which led him to broaden his perspective on God and spirituality, integrating teachings from Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and more.Redefining God & Higher Self: Cliff describes how his understanding of God evolved from traditional Christian views to seeing God as “the source within”—the vibrational essence present in all of us.Answering the Call: Letting Go of Security: In 2017, Cliff courageously shut down a lucrative podcasting business and let go of all income streams to embrace coaching—a move guided by intuition and faith.Crisis & Opportunity: Cliff recounts a pivotal moment when his main income source dried up unexpectedly, triggering feelings of anxiety and fear. In retrospect, he sees this event as the nudge he needed to pursue his true calling.Discovering the Zone of Genius: Inspired by the book “The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks, Cliff realized that his passion lay not in podcast tech support, but in transformational coaching focused on mindset and personal breakthroughs.The Power of Inner Knowing: Cliff talks about spiritual experiences, quiet reflection, and the importance of trusting your intuitive guidance—even without having “the right words” or a conventional belief system.From Pulpit to Podcast: Cliff reflects on his early ministry days and how spontaneous, inspired messages led him toward the powerful impact he brings to coaching today.Practical Tools for Transformation: Cliff invites listeners to check out his free keynote “All Beliefs Have Consequences” at mindsetanswerman.com/free, where he teaches you to identify, disassociate from, and replace limiting beliefs.Where to Find Cliff: Website: cliffravenscraft.comMindset Answer Man & Free Keynote: mindsetanswerman.com/freeFinal Thoughts:If you’re searching for inspiration to break free from limiting beliefs, feel called to a greater purpose, or want to hear firsthand how to reinvent your life after great success—this episode is a must-listen!If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a like on Spotify/Apple Podcast and don’t forget to share it with a friend!00:00 "Spiritual Transformation and God"05:10 "My Spiritual Journey with God"08:13 "Podcast Course Rivalry Unfolds"13:11 "From Insurance to Coaching"15:34 Final Podcasting Course Announcement17:35 Pulse Ox Podcast Outro

What does it mean to truly chase success? On this episode, Eric Stopper sits down with Lee Mills, founder of Pixly AI, and peels back the tough layers of entrepreneurship, grit, and personal values.Lee shares how Pixly AI is transforming project documentation for builders, techs, and field service pros—but the real magic comes when the conversation goes deep. Lee recounts his wake-up call after a life-altering cycling accident, navigating corporate politics, and ultimately choosing to redefine his life around integrity, gratitude, and self-mastery.Key Themes in This Episode:Founder's Reality Check: The toll relentless hustle takes on health, relationships, and happiness.The Accident That Changed Everything: Lee’s vulnerable story of getting hit by a car, his struggle in the hospital, and how it provoked a radical reevaluation of life and work.Startup Warfare: Office politics, commission battles, and what it feels like when coworkers try to “steal food off your plate.”Building a Personal Foundation: Eric and Lee discuss value systems, the importance of integrity, and how exercises in self-mastery (inspired by leaving the Mormon church and Burning Man epiphanies!) can reshape how we pursue fulfillment.Surviving Startup Setbacks: From hiring the wrong co-founder to burning through funding during Covid, Lee talks about resilience, managing stress, and the rollercoaster emotions of being a founder.Daily Habits and Mantras: Hear Lee’s powerful gratitude mantra and his recommendations for managing stress through yoga, exercise, and mindset work.Community and Support: How finding fellow founders, building authentic connections, and paying it forward keeps the entrepreneurial journey from being so lonely.Lee’s parting advice?“Be your own best friend. Put yourself first. No matter how hard it gets, wake up with gratitude and belief in what you’re building.”Connect with Lee Mills:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leemills/----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------00:00 "Tech Startups: Sacrifice and Success"04:57 "Unpacking the Stolen Plate"06:41 "Choosing Core Values"11:45 Managing Stress & Starting Pixely14:59 "Build for Customers, Not Self"17:52 "iMarketers: Early Internet Marketing"19:45 Supporting Founders with Good Vibes

On this inspiring episode of the Pulse Ox podcast, host Eric Stopper sits down with Arthur J. Rutledge: author, speaker, trainer, and self-described soulful spiritual cat originally from Detroit, now making waves in New York City. Arthur opens up about his journey from dreamer to entrepreneur, sharing powerful stories of faith, intuition, and trusting the process—even when the destination isn't clear.At just 19, Arthur was “bestowed” his first business opportunity, spurred by a mentor who saw greater potential in him than he saw in himself. He recalls receiving divine guidance through dreams and prayer, and how those moments of intuition—and recurring nudges from the universe—helped him find his path. Arthur’s vivid storytelling takes us through a near-death experience in middle school, which reinforced his belief in higher protection, and moments that taught him to lean into faith, especially during uncertain times.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone seeking to make better decisions, Arthur shares actionable wisdom for tuning into your intuition. He emphasizes identifying your strengths, staying curious, and surrounding yourself with those who believe in you—even before you believe in yourself. From faith-driven leadership to secular self-trust, Arthur offers insights for everyone looking to tap into that elusive “gold” within.Highlights:Why intuition and faith are essential tools for entrepreneurs and leadersArthur’s first leap of faith and his journey into business ownershipThe role of mentors, prayer, and personal belief in shaping successHow to cultivate intuition, whether you believe in a higher power or notThe importance of curiosity, repetition, and valuing your own unique giftsConnect with Arthur J. Rutledge:Website: verticalmindsetgroup.comBook: 11 Pillars of Confidence (Available everywhere)Instagram: @arthurs_arts_mindsetLinkedIn: Arthur J. RutledgeFacebook: Arthur J. RutledgeIf this episode resonated with you, please like and share on Spotify—and pass it along to a friend who could use a dose of inspiration.Pulse Ox Podcast | Hosted by Eric Stopper

In this episode, Eric Stopper sits down with Pat Honiotes—coach, therapist, and the mastermind behind “Business from the Inside Out”—to dig deep into how our subconscious beliefs shape our success (and struggles) as entrepreneurs, leaders, and humans.Pat brings powerful personal stories—from overcoming harsh childhood labels to breaking free from decades of self-doubt—to illuminate how most business owners have no idea their subconscious mind is running the show. She shares her approach for unearthing these “wound-driven beliefs” and turning them into superpowers instead of saboteurs.Eric gets vulnerable about his own inner critic, the “damning, coffin-manufacturing phrases” that hold him back despite career wins and a supportive environment. Pat explains why mindset rituals alone aren’t enough: you’ve got to go deeper than the intellect and get to the root level of those beliefs if you want to break the cycle.What you’ll learn in this episode:How early labels and experiences quietly drive (or derail) your business results for yearsWhy affirmations, accountability, and mindset hacks can only get you so far without addressing the subconsciousHow to identify the real source of your limiting beliefs—and start making them work for you, not against youPractical steps and mindset shifts to ditch the impostor syndrome for goodPat’s unique “Leadership PhD” process to unlock your subconscious stories and start rewriting themIf you’ve ever felt like you’re the problem—and can’t figure out why—this conversation offers hope, practical tools, and a fresh perspective.Want to connect with Pat Honiotes? Find her on LinkedIn (just search Pat Honiotes) or email her directly at [email protected]—she’s always happy to respond!Plus: Don’t miss Eric’s invite to the weekly entrepreneur meetup for hands-on help with AI and automation, community, and inspiration.Subscribe for real, honest conversations about what it really takes to succeed—from the inside out!00:00 Defying Expectations and Achieving Success06:55 Internalizing Stress and Self-Doubt08:32 Banishing Negative Self-Talk11:05 "Discovering Your Inner Energy"15:59 "Missed Opportunities and Busy Life"19:40 "Engage on LinkedIn: Connect Now"Pat Honiotes shares her journey and practical insights on overcoming internal barriers that hold entrepreneurs back.How childhood labels and subconscious beliefs can impact your business successThe critical difference between intellectual awareness and subconscious healingPractical steps to uncover and rewire your core subconscious woundsWhy most self-improvement rituals fail to address the real root of self-doubtTools and programs you can use to empower yourself and create lasting changeTune in for actionable advice and a fresh perspective on becoming a true business badass—from the inside out.

In this episode, host Eric Stopper welcomes the inspiring Randy Peyser, CEO of AuthorOneStop.com—a visionary who helps writers pitch, ghostwrite, and edit books for New York publishers and literary agents. Randy shares his remarkable journey from aspiring author to published writer, and the unpredictable twists that shaped his career.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

A Dream Born from Adversity: Randy takes us back to the year 2000, recounting his quest to publish his first book, “Crappy to Happy,” and the heartbreaking saga of working tirelessly for a magazine, only to be left unpaid due to a $4.7 million embezzlement scandal.

Turning Setbacks into Creativity: Learn how Randy pivoted from personal loss by creating a one-person show, overcoming his fear of performing, and using it as a platform to fund his dreams. This show not only helped him buy a coveted guitar, but also led to a lucrative book deal—and a surprise cameo of his book in the movie “Eat Pray Love” with Julia Roberts!

The Power of Priority: Randy’s advice on how making writing a true priority—rather than just an option—can turn ideas into manuscripts. He shares practical exercises like his “chunks of gold” method for overcoming writer’s block and building the foundation for a compelling book.

Originality vs. Oversaturation: Tackling the age-old question, “Why write another book when everything’s already been written?” Randy’s answer is both comforting and empowering: Every voice is unique and meant to reach a distinct audience.

A Brush with the Mystical: Randy candidly recounts mystical experiences—from transformative meditations to a powerful healing at the hands of a spiritual healer—which have profoundly shaped his journey as a writer and mentor.

Whether you’re a budding author, a creator stuck at a crossroads, or someone searching for inspiration, Randy’s story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the magic in following your dreams—even when the road gets rough.

Learn More about Randy: Visit AuthorOneStop.com (that’s ONE spelled out!) to discover Randy’s services for writers and see how he’s helping others bring their stories to life.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like us on Spotify and share it with a friend!

—

The Pulse Ox Podcast: Real people. Bold stories. All the inspiration you need to keep chasing your dreams!

00:00 Embezzlement Fallout and New Beginnings

05:39 Soul-Searching After Career Loss

07:37 Advice for Aspiring Authors

11:55 "Personal Impact Varies Across Audiences"

14:46 "Healer Visit for Breast Lump"

16:47 "Love, Light, and Consciousness"

Get inspired by Randy Peyser’s incredible journey from magazine editor to successful author and CEO. In this episode, Randy shares how setbacks, creativity, and prioritizing your dreams can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

How Randy navigated losing his biggest freelance check and turned it into a show-stopping opportunity

The process of transforming difficult life experiences into writing success

Practical advice for aspiring authors on making writing a true priority

Debunking the myth that "everything has already been written"

Randy’s mystical experiences and their impact on his personal and professional life

Check it out for actionable tips and stories that will motivate you to chase your own dreams!

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Eric Stopper sits down with Justin Batt—entrepreneur, connector, innovator, and passionate advocate for fatherhood. Live from his farm in Tennessee, Justin shares the story of how a near-fatal football injury at 17 redirected his life and reshaped his faith, ambitions, and his purpose. Justin’s journey is full of unexpected turns, divine interventions, and a relentless pursuit of intentional fatherhood, entrepreneurship, and spiritual discovery.

Key Themes & Highlights

From All-State Dreams to Life-Threatening Injury: Justin recounts the harrowing football accident that nearly cost him his life—and his kidney. Learn how a series of remarkable coincidences, including a world-class nephrologist’s presence and a behind-the-scenes family intervention, changed his fate and perspective forever.

Spiritual Pivots & Divine Interventions: Justin talks candidly about his spiritual awakening following the injury and how it shifted his life path from chasing football glory to honoring a higher calling. Hear his accounts of feeling physically, almost supernaturally, redirected at pivotal life moments.

Faith, Fatherhood & Entrepreneurship: Justin dives into the creation of Daddy Saturday, his nonprofit aimed at ending fatherlessness and empowering fathers to engage intentionally with their children. He reflects on his vision for celebrating fatherhood on a grand scale—including hosting the Fatherhood Festival at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Navigating Spiritual Experiences: The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Eric shares experiences from other faiths, including Hindu chakra meditation, and asks Justin how he reconciles diverse spiritual phenomena with his Christian worldview. Justin offers thoughtful and nuanced perspectives on faith, biblical doctrine, and navigating interfaith dialogue.

Living the “Zoe” Life: From raising Scottish Highland cows to hosting families on Airbnb, Justin describes his unique approach to living a full, meaningful life—what he calls “the God kind of life”—and why building legacy and connection is at the heart of everything he does.

Notable Quotes

“My personal passion is helping people share their stories with the world.” – Justin Batt

“The only way that the Lord stopped me was to physically harm me… the way he typically gets me to slow down or redirect is when I have to be physically harmed, because that’s the only way that I seem to respond.” – Justin Batt

“As a Christian, I believe it’s to come to know the Lord and his son, Jesus… but everyone is searching for something.” – Justin Batt

Connect with Justin Batt

LinkedIn: Justin Batt

Daddy Saturday: daddysaturday.com

True South Farm: truesouthfarm.com

00:00 "Justin Batt: Farmer & Entrepreneur"

04:53 Hospital Error Saves Patient's Kidney

06:38 Fatherhood Festival: Celebrating Through Sport

10:23 "Guided Away from Harm"

13:34 Christianity vs. Modern Spirituality Debate

17:13 "Faith Perspectives via Familiarity"

22:06 Chakras: Energy, Not Deity

23:44 "Creation, Connection, and Contact Info"

Explore the journey of entrepreneur Justin Batt as he shares pivotal moments from his life, including a life-threatening injury, spiritual experiences, and his mission to support fathers and end fatherlessness. Host Eric Stopper dives deep into personal faith, spiritual phenomena, and the quest for understanding across different belief systems.

Justin Batt's background as a connector, entrepreneur, and father living in Tennessee

The life-changing football accident that shaped his faith and future path

Insights on spiritual experiences, invisible forces, and divine intervention

Perspectives on Christianity, other world religions, and the quest for spiritual truth

Justin's work with Daddy Saturday and his ongoing mission to help fathers engage with their kids

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this conversation valuable!