Reforge Your Life with Joe Rivera

What would you do if you spent 29 years in prison for a crime you didn’t commit—and came out not just restored, but empowered to change the world?

This episode of the Reforge Your Life Show delivers a gripping, inspirational conversation with Bruce Bryan, who was wrongfully convicted at age 23 and sentenced to 37.5 years to life. Now exonerated, Bruce Bryan reveals how he found purpose, rebuilt his belief system, and transformed pain into positive impact, becoming the U.S. Ambassador for Justice Defenders and championing the rights and education of incarcerated men and women across the globe.

Key highlights include:

• Surviving violence and trauma at Rikers Island,
• The power of self-talk and shifting from survival to thriving,
• Cracking through limiting beliefs and building a limitless mindset,
• The game-changing impact of education and community,
• Why healing, gratitude, and self-reflection are essential to real freedom, no matter your circumstances.

Unlock resilience, inner strength, and real transformation in this powerful episode.

Timestamped Overview

[00:00] Introduction and Bruce Bryan’s background

[02:14] Wrongful conviction and 29 years in prison

[05:48] Coping with prison violence and trauma

[09:19] Struggles with mindset and self-sabotage

[16:22] The story we tell ourselves and the path to healing

[23:10] Shifting from survival mode to thriving

[26:32] Paradigm shifts, books, and spiritual principles

[33:42] Breaking through limiting beliefs and core values

[37:05] Limitless mindset and the role of community

[41:10] The power of gratitude and giving grace

[46:03] Purpose, meaning, and what it means to “reforge”

[49:07] Advice for anyone needing to reforge their life

[56:01] Personal insights and wrap-up

Ever imagine saving countless lives with a device first built from tongue depressors and tape?

In this episode, discover how an emergency room physician turned the chaos of nosebleeds—and a moment of personal crisis—into an innovative medical breakthrough now helping hospitals, cruise ships, and sports teams worldwide.

The conversation focused on the belief it takes to reforge your life after betrayal, how to turn adversity into billion-dollar ambitions, and why self-care and community are the true engines of sustainable success.

Key highlights include founding NASAL Clip, overcoming gender and racial barriers in raising venture capital, the science behind making Narcan more effective during overdoses, and essential lessons on self-belief, boundaries, and leading by example as a single mom entrepreneur.

Episode Overview:

00:00 Introduction and guest reveal01:12 The origin story: From ER frustration to NASA Clip invention03:39 Taking NASAL Clip from idea to market—and a pandemic pivot07:49 Expansion into hospitals, sports, and global markets08:26 Future plans: Using the device for drug delivery and overdose response12:25 Personal challenges: Divorce, single parenthood, and perseverance15:05 Role modeling and breaking cycles for the next generation17:04 Setting boundaries, prioritizing happiness, and avoiding burnout23:26 Fundraising as a woman of color: Barriers and breakthroughs28:11 Big dreams: Projecting a billion-dollar exit29:19 Breaking belief barriers and living authentically33:03 Core values: Service, self-love, and presence37:10 The importance and pitfalls of technology and balance42:32 Asking for help and mentorship43:04 Purpose, redefining yourself, and advice to your younger self45:41 Fun facts—football, golf, and the power of hobbies46:58 Closing thoughts and encouragement to share the episode

What if your biggest vice felt like your superpower—until it nearly destroyed everything you had?

In this raw and inspiring episode, serial entrepreneur Ian Fee shares his remarkable transformation from spending over a million dollars on alcohol to eight years of sobriety and renewed purpose. Host Joe Rivera dives deep with Ian about hitting rock bottom, the realities of rehab, the impact of addiction on family, and the life-changing practices that now define their success. With honest reflections on facing uncomfortable truths and practical advice for anyone seeking change, this episode is a powerful reminder that your past does not define your future—you do.

Episode Overview:[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Ian Fee[01:25] Ian’s history with alcohol and early beginnings[02:27] Using alcohol as a superpower in business[03:09] Rehab and writing a book as therapeutic process[04:00] The importance of forgiving yourself[05:33] Rock bottom, rehab experience, and finding true turning point[07:25] “Career in drinking”—lifestyle and consequences[09:11] Rehab details, aversion therapy, and triggers[13:10] The real work: confronting emotions and healing[14:18] The influence of your circle and the necessity to evolve relationships[17:55] Embracing failure and lessons learned[18:59] Honest stories of denial, people-pleasing, and missing presence[22:38] Character defects, self-awareness, and letting go of old patterns[28:47] The ripple effect of addiction on loved ones[30:08] The role of forgiveness—especially self-forgiveness[33:08] Core values and daily gratitude practices[34:54] Where to find Ian and his philosophy on positivity[36:49] Intentional mornings and setting the tone for the day[38:42] Defining purpose and reforging your life[40:40] Ian’s advice: owning your life and mirror check[41:31] Advice to his younger self[42:04] Books, coffee shops, and rediscovering joy with family[43:13] Closing thoughts and messages of impact

In this empowering episode of Reforge Your Life, host Joe Rivera welcomes Dr. Mauri de Govia—lead strategist, educator, motivational coach, and author—to share her inspiring journey of transformation, self-forgiveness, and resilience. Raised by a single mother and grappling with the absence of her father, Dr. Mauri de Govia opens up about overcoming personal and professional adversity, battling limiting beliefs, breaking glass ceilings, and navigating the complexities of leadership.

Together, Mauri de Govia and Joe Rivera dive deep into:

• The turning point that awakened Dr. Mauri de Govia to her missing piece and how it impacted her health and achievements
• Forgiveness as a powerful tool for self-liberation
• The lessons learned from closing and opening schools as a young principal
• The importance of boundaries, core values, and choosing yourself first
• Navigating dream-stoppers, unsupportive environments, and evolving relationships
• How to recognize when it’s time to move on and embrace the next chapter
• Dr. Mauri de Govia’s PUSH framework for resilience and her new book, "Push to Thrive"
• Encouragement to reforge your story and play a bigger game in life

Whether you’re longing for a comeback, feeling stuck in old patterns, or seeking the courage to choose yourself, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heart-centered wisdom.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode—someone you know may need it to reforge their life!

Connect with Dr. Mauri de Govia:

• Instagram: @thedegoviagroup
• LinkedIn: Dr. Mauri de Govia
• Book: "Push to Thrive" (available on Amazon)

#ReforgeYourLife #Resilience #Inspiration #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #Podcast #MauriDeGovia #JoeRivera

What if everything you believed about your own family was a lie—and the only way forward was to confront deeply hidden truths and forge a new path through forgiveness and love?

In this powerful episode of the Reforge Your Life Show, host Joe Rivera sits down with love coach, speaker, and author Jackie Harden to uncover her extraordinary journey from childhood trauma, addiction, and betrayal to healing, self-discovery, and breaking generational cycles. Jackie shares harrowing experiences—including sexual abuse, forced abortions, and family secrets—but ultimately reveals how owning her story, choosing honesty, and transforming pain into purpose led to profound liberation and peace.

Key highlights:

• The shocking family truth Jackie uncovered after years of secrecy
• How she navigated motherhood amidst addiction and trauma, and broke the cycle for her daughter
• The role of self-forgiveness, honesty, and God in healing and recovery
• Practical advice for anyone feeling stuck or desperate, and steps to start forging a new life
• Why honesty, authenticity, and integrity are critical values for transformation
• Information about Jackie’s book When a Lie Becomes the Truth and her upcoming Love, Truth, and Transformation program

Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation where vulnerability meets hope—showing that the comeback is always possible, and your story can be the light for someone else’s healing.

Episode Overview

• 00:00

  : Introduction & mission of Reforge Your Life Show

• 00:57

  : Jackie Harden begins sharing her story

• 03:36

  : Childhood trauma and family betrayal

• 07:23

  : Addiction, motherhood, and the turning point

• 14:16

  : Seeking help, recovery, and therapy

• 21:09

  : Forgiveness and understanding generational pain

• 34:32

  : Writing her memoir and breaking the cycle for her daughter

• 46:26

  : Details about the Love, Truth, and Transformation program

• 49:53

  : Purpose, connection to God, and the meaning of reforging

• 52:41

  : Advice for those seeking to reforge their life

• 55:02

  : Fun fact about Jackie—her love for music and dancing

• 57:48

  : Outro and further resources

Listen, share, and be inspired to reforge your own life—no matter where you start.

What if everything you thought you knew about finding yourself, overcoming addiction, and true transformation was completely wrong?

In this truly inspiring episode of the Reforge Your Life Show, host Joe Rivera welcomes Dr. Laurette Willis—whose journey from off-Broadway performer, New Age seeker, and high-functioning alcoholic to faith-driven fitness leader will inspire you to rethink what's possible.

With raw honesty and contagious energy, Dr. Laurette Willis shares her story of battling alcoholism, overeating, and inner emptiness—revealing how surrender, faith, and reframing self-talk can pave the way for authentic change and lasting joy. Hear the pivotal moment when the audible voice of God changed the course of her life, and discover her powerful approach to replacing toxic beliefs with new hope and purpose.

Key highlights include:

• How emotional pain and childhood patterns shaped Dr. Laurette Willis’s struggle—and how the cycle was broken (01:14-14:47)

• The neuroscience behind transforming self-talk and beliefs (34:09-37:31)

• The founding of PraiseMoves (Christian alternative to yoga) and W3 Sisterhood (weight loss without willpower) (43:05-45:03)

• Practical advice for anyone looking to reforge their life—regardless of faith or background (47:5150:58)

• Why vulnerability, hope, love, and faith are essential core values for enduring life’s curveballs (39:25-42:14)

Timestamped Overview:

• Introduction & Dr. Laurette Willis’s story (00:07-14:47)

• Addiction, beliefs & transformation (15:06-37:31)

• Core values & overcoming challenges (39:25-42:14)

• Current work and practical tools for reforging your life (43:05-53:57)

• Closing reflections & inspiration (53:58–end)

Tune in to discover how even the most broken pieces can be reforged into something beautiful—and begin your own journey of hope, healing, and purpose.

What would you do if your helicopter crashed in the ocean at night—and you had to fight panic, survive upside down underwater, and immediately answer to an official investigation, all before sunrise?

In this powerful episode, Kelly Harrison reveals the gripping true story of her near-death experience as a Navy pilot, the battles with self-doubt and scrutiny she faced after, and how faith, humor, and community helped her reforge her life for the better.

With Joe Rivera, Kelly Harrison discusses the surprising lessons learned from surviving crisis, overcoming imposter syndrome, leveraging support networks, and the critical importance of honesty, kindness, and self-care. Whether you’re facing your own fears, rebuilding after hardship, or leading others through challenge, this episode delivers real tools and inspiration to help you rise from the ashes—no matter where you are in your journey.

Episode Overview:

[00:00] Introduction and welcoming Kelly Harrison

[00:50] The helicopter crash: surviving disaster[03:00] How sharing hard stories helps others

[04:27] Facing death and unexpected moments of humor

[06:03] The toughest challenges after the crash

[07:50] Enduring investigations, self-doubt, and the power of support networks

[09:07] The art of reframing and rebuilding self-confidence

[11:07] Inside the escape: egress, panic, and critical mistakes

[14:31] Persevering through panic; why perfection isn’t required

[15:34] Returning to flight and leadership inspired by support

[17:21] Facing fear, rebuilding confidence, and the role of repetition

[21:00] The critical difference between fear and faith

[23:11] A miraculous story of faith and survival

[26:28] Breaking through limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome

[29:56] Uncovering and living by core values

[33:40] The importance of collaboration, honesty, and self-care

[36:00] Kelly Harrison’s current work and how to connect

[37:37] Defining purpose and the meaning of “reforge”

[38:21] Life advice for younger self and anyone looking to rebuild

[40:08] The mind-body power of Pilates and closing thoughts

What if hitting rock bottom wasn’t a sign to give up, but the spark to build something even greater?

In this powerful episode of Reforge Your Life, discover how Bill Reynolds, President of Element 502, went from closing a church and facing near business collapse to leading a thriving company—all by leaning into faith, grit, and relentless honesty.

Joe Rivera dives deep with Bill Reynolds as he shares the jaw-dropping reality of risking it all—including firing himself—to keep his business alive, and explains why his journey through failure, uncertainty, and sacrifice was actually the foundation for growth and legacy. Learn why waiting rooms are essential to growth, how to sacrifice with integrity, and how to recognize when you’re truly following the right path.

Whether you’re struggling in your business, personal faith, or looking to reforge your life, this episode will show you the transformative power of pain, perseverance, and aligned action.

• 00:00: Intro and welcome
• 00:45: Bill Reynolds’s journey — from marketing to ministry to entrepreneurship
• 02:02: The closure of the church and discerning next steps
• 04:28: Buying a failing company and the first hard decisions
• 05:10: The not-so-glamorous reality of faith-driven entrepreneurship
• 10:46: Lessons from failure: Comfort, waiting rooms, and growing through loss
• 15:54: Learning obedience, moving forward when doors keep closing
• 19:13: Taking the helm at Element 502, big sacrifices, and transparency
• 22:00: Layoffs, economic challenges, and the toughest calls in business
• 27:11: Fear vs. faith, and why both can coexist on your growth journey
• 28:18: How to know if you’re on the right (God’s) path
• 32:12: Cracking limiting beliefs, imposter syndrome, and leaning into your mission
• 35:35: Core values and creating a culture shaped by faith and honesty
• 38:01: Joe Beauchamp’s story behind the 599 Haircut and adding value in business
• 40:42: Rapid-fire questions on purpose, reforging, and practical advice for listeners
• 44:19: Final thoughts, giving back, and staying true to your calling

Don’t miss this moving, real-talk episode that will leave you ready to reforge your life—no matter what you’re facing.

What if losing millions, hitting rock bottom, and even surviving a heart attack was exactly what you needed to discover your true purpose?

In this powerful episode, Dan Sachkowsky joins Joe Rivera to pull back the curtain on an incredible journey: from growing up in the projects of New Jersey, making (and losing) millions as a young entrepreneur, hitting bankruptcy, and ultimately finding true wealth in service and purpose.

Key highlights:

• Dan Sachkowsky shares what it was like to go from hustling for money to redefining what success means after losing everything.
• The game-changing moment that shifted his focus from chasing dollars to helping others and living with integrity.
• Raw insights on entrepreneurship, risk, failure, and why most people never go all in.
• How surviving a near-death heart attack awakened his desire to make a real impact—and how faith and gratitude shaped his comeback.
• The importance of finding mentors, unlearning bad habits, and why the best time for change is always now.

If you’re stuck, searching for your "why," or just want to know what it takes to truly reforge your life, don’t miss this episode.

Episode Overview

[00:00] Welcome & Dan Sachkowsky's backstory

[02:20] Chasing money, early success—and a dramatic crash

[04:05] The wake-up call: bankruptcy, family, and shifting priorities

[05:16] Building new businesses, high risks, and big lessons

[05:52] Surviving a heart attack: a promise to live with purpose

[07:00] The power of dreams, mentorship, and asking for help

[11:05] Taking action without overthinking and the reality of entrepreneurship

[12:28] The three reasons his first business failed

[14:00] The heart attack: what happened and how it changed him

[19:10] Purpose, faith, and why money isn't enough

[22:27] Stepping into coaching and serving others

[28:12] Core values: purpose, freedom, integrity, and serving

[31:32] Building the Big D brand and a life worth living

[35:47] Defining purpose and how to find it

[40:10] Advice for anyone ready to reforge their life

[41:29] Why you can’t afford to wait for “someday”—the time is now

[42:36] Final words and call to action for listeners

What if your greatest setback became the launchpad for your biggest comeback?

In this inspiring episode of the Reforge Your Life show, host Joe Rivera sits down with Lore Soto, owner of The Boss Benefits, who opens up about how being unexpectedly fired from a lucrative career, launching her own business, and facing a breast cancer diagnosis all within a short span of time transformed her life—for the better.

Hear how Lori navigated the rapid-fire challenges of entrepreneurship, learned critical lessons about trust and integrity in the insurance industry, and found the strength to keep moving forward during cancer treatment—all while refusing to compromise her values. Discover why she now believes setbacks are just setups for comebacks, and how the power of self-belief, resilience, and honesty can change the trajectory of your life and business.

Key highlights include:

• The behind-the-scenes truths of the insurance industry and why Lorie decided to forge her own path 01:09
• How listening to your gut and refusing to compromise your integrity is vital—even when money’s on the line 02:30
• The shocking discovery of her breast cancer, and how she balanced running a business and cancer treatments—without letting it define her 04:45, 07:41
• Why the right support system, personal honesty, and betting on yourself are the cornerstones of an unbreakable comeback 32:27
• Practical advice for anyone looking to reforge their life, and the #1 lesson Lore wishes she could tell her younger self 46:30

Episode Overview00:28 Introduction & Lore’s Story01:09 Stumbling into Insurance and Getting Fired02:30 Lessons in Trust, Integrity, and Health04:45 The Breast Cancer Diagnosis & Processing Adversity07:41 Balancing Treatment and Business Ownership12:35 Health, Nutrition, and Changing Habits16:09 Entrepreneurship: Challenges & Pivots20:36 Impact of Illness on Perspective and Business25:36 Mindset, Self-Honesty & Life Changes31:01 Breaking Limiting Beliefs and Betting on Yourself35:06 Core Values to Thrive By39:53 Lore’s Work Today & How to Connect41:52 The Meaning of Purpose and Reforging44:04 Advice for Listeners Ready for Change46:30 The One Thing Lori Wishes She Knew Sooner49:46 Surprising Insights about Lore51:12 Final Reflections & Closing