SolFul Connections

Do the circumstances of your birth determine the life you can create?

Damaris Melo-Gyasi, NCARB, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP knows something about making her way, which is also the subject of her recent book, Making My Way.

Born into challenging circumstances in Brazil, Damaris' life could have easily defined the boundaries of her future. But a life-changing chance encounter changed the way she envisioned her future - and, in doing, altered her life in a powerful way.

Today, Damaris is an award-winning architect who leads her own firm, a TEDx speaker, and the author of Making My Way.

Her journey from humble beginnings to an extraordinary career is remarkable. But what makes her story especially powerful is the way she talks about it: with authenticity, humility, and a deep belief in the possibilities that can emerge when we are willing to pursue our dreams.

In this conversation, Damaris and Amanda talk about what it means to make your way when you don't necessarily have a roadmap. They explore dreams, courage, possibility, perseverance, and the importance of leaning in rather than allowing fear, circumstances, or other people's expectations to determine what is possible for your life.

Damaris reminds us that we don't always have to know exactly how we're going to get there. Sometimes, we simply have to be willing to take the next step toward the life we can imagine.

Because possibility isn't always something we find.

Sometimes, it's something we choose.

More with Damaris:http://www.designbymelo.com/
Making My Way - by Damaris Melo-Gyasi : TargetMaking My Way: A Story of Grit and Grace - Kindle edition by Melo-Gyasi, Damaris. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Listen to more SolFul Connections:

SolFul Connections is about less small talk and more soul talk, real conversations about the experiences, choices, challenges, and possibilities that shape our lives.

Because you and your story matter.

Navigating the topic of suicide is a deep and important topic. In this episode from the vaults of the SolFul Connections podcast, Honey Beuf and her daughter Tess Kunik, founders of The Liv Project, share how their heartbreaking loss led to a powerful documentary, a heart opening game, and the formation of an organization dedicated to fearless conversations designed to end the cycle of youth suicide.

As you listen, please remember to take care of yourself.

For more, visit: The Liv Project | A creative collective to turn the tide of youth suicide.

We’re all holding a lot.

Life. Career. Health. Family. Responsibilities. And whenyou’re an entrepreneur, there’s often an entire business to hold together, too.

So how do you keep it all from depending on you?

The answer might be systems.

In this week’s episode of SolFul Connections, I’m talking with Adi Klevit about how creating the right systems and processes can move entrepreneurs out of daily operational chaos and create something we all need more of: freedom.

We talk about why systems matter, how to document and optimize what’s working, and how creating structure can actually give you more space for creativity, growth, and the life you want to live.

And along the way, you’ll get to know a little bit about the woman behind the systems and what SolFul Living means to her.

Business Success Consulting Group:
https://bizsuccesscg.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adiklevit/

Systems Simplified Podcast:
https://www.bizsuccesscg.com/podcast/

Free Process Mapping Session:
https://calendly.com/meetwithadi/free-process-mapping-session

E-book, Stop Carrying Your Business In Your Head:
https://bizsuccesscg.com/download-e-book/

Marcus Ogden shares his inspiring journey from NFL athlete to successful speaker and coach, emphasizing resilience, authenticity, and purpose-driven living. Discover how adopting a bison mindset can help you face life's storms and unlock endless possibilities.

Key topics

• The bison mentality and its relevance to facing challenges
• Marcus Ogden's personal story of failure, resilience, and success
• The importance of living with purpose and integrity
• Strategies for delivering value as a speaker and coach
• The role of authenticity in personal and professional growth
• Lessons learned from NFL, entrepreneurship, and life hardships
• The significance of resilience under pressure and how to develop it
• The impact of living a purpose-driven life on success and fulfillment

• Adopt the bison mentality: face problems head-on, not avoid them.
• Live with purpose, integrity, and self-awareness to succeed.
• Resilience is built through facing hardships, not avoiding them.
• Authenticity and living true to oneself attract success.
• Focus on delivering value and customizing your approach to clients.
• Never quit, even when facing setbacks or failures.
• Invest in yourself and prioritize self-love and authenticity.

For more: Marques Ogden | Leadership Keynote Speaker

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda connectswith contemporary mystic and spiritual teacher Vishrant, a man whose life defiesconvention.

He built extraordinary business success at a young age,survived 18 hours lost at sea in a near-death experience, gave away his businesses, and spent four years walking barefoot across Australia in search of his heart.

This wasn't just another conversation; it was, at times, a mind-bending one.

Whether you find yourself captivated by Vishrant's remarkable story or challenged by his perspective on happiness, surrender, and unconditional love, this episode offers something deeper than answers. It invites reflection.

As you listen, notice what resonates, what surprises you,and what stirs within you. Perhaps Vishrant's words aren't meant to convince you of anything at all, but to serve as a mirror, helping you examine your own choices, motivations, fears, and definition of a meaningful life.

Sometimes the most transformative conversations don'ttell us what to think. They simply invite us to see ourselves more clearly.

More about Vishrant: vishrant.org

Social links:

https://youtube.com/@vishrant

https://www.instagram.com/vishrantprem

https://www.facebook.com/vishrantprem

https://www.tiktok.com/@vishrantprem

In this episode of SolFul Connections, you are invited to meet my dad. My dad is a driven intellectual who pursues knowledge relentlessly. In this podcast, he talks about growing up, his expectations - or lack of expectations - and the golden rule.

What if most of our relationship conflicts aren't about whatwas said, but about what was heard?

In this heartfelt conversation, Amanda connects withpsychotherapist, author, and founder of Advocate2Create, Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva, to explore the communication patterns that either strengthenor strain our relationships.

Drawing from years of experience helping individuals andcouples navigate conflict, Patricia introduces the powerful framework from her new book, Why Are We Fighting?, the IAP Model (Intention, Action, Perception). She explains why our intentions don't always match another person's perception, and how understanding that gap can transform the way wecommunicate with partners, family, friends, and colleagues.

The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn asPatricia shares how losing a dear friend to suicide reinforced the importance of reaching out, checking in, and creating spaces where people feel truly seen and heard.

Whether you're navigating conflict in a marriage, friendship, workplace, or simply hoping to become a better communicator, this episode offers practical tools, meaningful reflection, and hope for deeper connection.

In this episode, you'll discover:
• Why good intentions don't always create good outcomes.
• The three parts of the IAP Model: Intention, Action, and Perception.
• How curiosity can replace defensiveness in difficult conversations.
• Simple communication skills that strengthen every relationship.
• Why checking in with someone could make more of a difference than yourealize.
• How understanding others begins with understanding ourselves.

To learn more about Patricia and her work, and to exploreher book Why Are We Fighting?, visit Individual & Couples Therapy Florida - Advocate2CreateWhy Are We Fighting?: Actionable Strategies for Effective Communication: Timerman Barbosa da Silva, Dr. Patricia: 9798218450861: Amazon.com: Books

Remember... less small talk. More soul talk.

What if one of the most powerful skills you could develop isn't speaking, but listening?

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda connects with Noemi Beres, co-owner of Podcast Connections, linguistics expert, entrepreneur, artist, and musician, whose work has helped entrepreneurs around the world share their stories on podcasts.

But this conversation goes far beyond business.

Growing up in Hungary and now living in Cyprus, Noemi reflects on the experiences that shaped her, the dreams that became reality, and the philosophy that guides both her life and her work. Together, Amanda and Noemi explore what it means to truly listen, create space for others to feel heard, and build authentic relationships rooted in generosity.

Along the way, they discuss why great podcast interviews are really about human connection, how walking fuels creativity, and the lasting influence of The Go-Giver on Noemi's approach to business and life.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills.
• What it means to truly hold space for another person.
• How Noemi's childhood in Hungary shaped her worldview.
• The role of creativity, music, and lifelong learning in her journey.
• What separates exceptional podcast hosts and unforgettable guests.
• How the principles of The Go-Giver transformed the way she approaches business.
• Why generosity and authentic connection create opportunities that can't be forced.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a podcast lover, or simply someone who wants to connect more deeply with others, this conversation is a reminder that every meaningful relationship begins with listening.

Sometimes the greatest gift we can offer another person isn't advice or answers—it's making them feel genuinely heard.

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda connects with filmmakers Vic Compher and Rodney Whittenberg to explore the powerful intersection of artistry, storytelling, and impact.

Their latest documentary, The Eagle and Condor Unite: A Story of Climate Restoration, examines how science, innovation, indigenous wisdom, and human creativity can come together in service of our planet's future. Rather than focusing on fear, the film offers a vision of hope, possibility, and collective responsibility.

Amanda, Vic, and Rodney discuss the filmmaking process, the role of artists as catalysts for change, and the ancient Eagle and Condor prophecy that inspires the documentary's message of balance between technological advancement and spiritual wisdom.

Whether you're passionate about the environment, fascinated by the creative process, or simply seeking stories that inspire meaningful action, this conversation is an invitation to consider how each of us can participate in creating a healthier, more connected world.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How filmmaking can become a vehicle for social impact
• The story behind The Eagle and Condor Unite
• The balance between innovation, science, and wisdom traditions
• Why hope is a powerful force for change
• Simple ways individuals can contribute to a more sustainable future

Less small talk. More soul talk.

For more: LifeDream Films

What if joy wasn't something you had to chase, but something you could intentionally cultivate every day?

In this uplifting conversation, Amanda connects with psychologist-turned-coach, speaker, and author Lauren Yellin Weinberg to explore what it means to create success and fulfillment from the inside out.

Lauren shares insights from her Expect Amazing philosophy and introduces elements of her SHINE framework, offering practical ways to strengthen self-trust, embrace possibility, and invite more joy into everyday life.

Together, Amanda and Lauren discuss the connection between joy and personal growth, the importance of mindset, and how small shifts in perspective can lead to meaningful transformation.

Whether you're navigating change, seeking more fulfillment, or simply looking for ways to bring more joy into your days, this conversation offers encouragement, wisdom, and actionable takeaways.

✨ Lauren's journey from psychology to coaching

✨ Why self-trust is foundational to a joyful life

✨ The inspiration behind Expect Amazing

✨ How the SHINE framework helps people live with greater purpose and confidence

✨ Simple practices for cultivating joy every day

✨ The power of perspective in shaping our experiences

✨ How to create success that feels authentic and meaningful

"Joy is not dependent on anything happening in your life."

- Lauren Yellin Weinberg

Lauren Yellin Weinberg

Follow and subscribe to the SolFul Connections podcast for conversations that inspire deeper connection, greater purpose, and more joy.