From panic attacks to peace, from corporate boardrooms to yoga studios—this conversation takes you on a transformative journey into wellness entrepreneurship and finding purpose after trauma.

Kim Fallon candidly shares her path from high-powered banking executive to yoga studio owner, revealing the breaking points that forced her to reevaluate everything. After experiencing debilitating anxiety, navigating a painful divorce from her high school sweetheart, and battling alcoholism during the isolation of COVID, Kim found salvation on her yoga mat. What began as a personal healing journey evolved into a bold career shift when she left her six-figure salary for a modest position at a yoga studio—a decision that eventually led to opening her own Yoga Six franchise.

Our host parallels this journey, describing how transitioning out of 24 years of military service led him to seek holistic alternatives to PTSD medications through yoga practice. Both share powerful stories of ending up in emergency rooms with panic attacks, only to be told "it's all mental"—a diagnosis that propelled them toward mindfulness practices rather than traditional medical interventions.

Perhaps most captivating is Kim's description of the Temescal sweat lodge ritual in Tulum—two hours in complete darkness with increasing heat, where strangers support each other through discomfort without even seeing one another. This powerful metaphor for finding breath and presence amidst chaos resonates throughout their conversation about building community through shared vulnerability.

Whether you're considering a career change, struggling with anxiety, or simply curious about yoga's transformative potential, this episode offers honest insights about finding light in life's darkest moments and creating purpose from pain.

Reflecting on the incredible journey from military life to civilian arenas, this episode features a lively conversation with Mach and his office partner from Air Force Recruiting, Steve Weston. Listen as they share personal tales full of nostalgia and humor as they crack open a special bottle of spirits and reminisce about their service days. You'll hear about the remarkable experiences that shaped they're careers, from the intense moments of setting up airfields in Kandahar and Kirkuk to the profound decision of leaving active duty after 16 and a half years. This candid discussion highlights the crucial roles that camaraderie and networking played in navigating challenging environments and transitioning into civilian life.

Steve and Mach delve into military culture, examining the contrasts and connections between rapid deployment teams and the bureaucratic hurdles of a slower-paced setting. They also discuss the challenges encountered at the Medical Entry Processing Station (MEPS) and the importance of effective leadership. The stories  shared are filled with valuable lessons, highlighting how adaptability and mentorship facilitated successful career transitions. This episode showcases how these experiences have shaped both of their  journeys and the relationships that continue to influence their personal and professional development.

The discussion, delve into wider themes, including the challenge of balancing work and family life, the influence of different leadership styles, and the subtleties involved in transitioning to corporate America. As well as, highlighting the importance of fostering lasting relationships and the vital role of mentorship while navigating new career terrains. The stories are infused with laughter and appreciation, encompassing both the humorous episodes from their  military service and poignant accounts of resilience and leadership. 
 
 We invite you to join us in this reflective episode as we celebrate the connections and personal growth developed during our time in the Air Force and beyond.

Explore the inspiring journey of True Khepra, a motivational speaker, author, and the host of the podcast Raw Success. Tune in as he engages in a meaningful dialogue with Mach, a decorated military veteran and host of Spark.N. Stride, who has embarked on a remarkable journey of reinvention and creativity. Together, Mach and True share their enthusiasm for podcasting and writing, illustrating how breaking free from preconceived limitations can create new opportunities for personal growth. Their insights on maintaining a positive attitude during life’s challenges, coupled with the influence of unexpected support, highlight the transformative potential of genuine connections.

Their conversation delves into the dynamics of teamwork and shared experiences that foster empowerment and motivation. Drawing from their varied backgrounds in hip-hop culture and military service, they emphasize the significance of connecting with individuals who share similar goals and values. By referencing principles from Napoleon Hill and African proverbs, this episode demonstrates the extraordinary results that can arise from collaboration. With lessons on resilience and determination interwoven throughout, True and Mach explore the roles of education, mentorship, and community in overcoming challenges and paving the way for a brighter future.

As the episode unfolds, they both reflect on the personal journeys that have shaped their lives, discussing topics ranging from early life choices to the benefits of practices like yoga and meditation. They address the balance between individual responsibilities and contributions to the community, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and personal growth. The conversation also highlights the significance of building confidence, fostering authentic connections, and leveraging life experiences to discover purpose and inspire others. Join us as we explore how generosity and authenticity can connect us with a global audience, cultivating a community that transcends geographical boundaries.

Imagine being a young kid suddenly navigating the unfamiliar terrain of Type 1 diabetes. That’s the journey Christian shares with us, offering a window into his life from the initial symptoms of drastic weight loss and unquenchable thirst to the pivotal moment of diagnosis. Join us as Christian candidly discusses the emotional and physical adjustments required in his new reality, emphasizing the role of community support and the technological advancements that aid diabetes management, like the Dexcom glucose monitor.

Christian's story shines a light on the challenges of managing diabetes in daily life, particularly in environments like school, where the symptoms of frequent bathroom visits and dehydration can't be ignored. His narrative takes us through the crucial moments that led to his diagnosis, including the observation of a concerned teacher. Discover how Christian balances the highs and lows of blood sugar management with the aid of insulin injections and continuous glucose monitoring, while highlighting the critical role friends and family play in offering support.

Throughout the episode, Christian’s resilience and positive outlook are contagious. He shares transformative experiences that have not only improved his health but have also empowered him to chase his dreams with renewed vigor. From mastering the intricacies of insulin dosing to adjusting to the physical demands of his condition, Christian's journey is a testament to overcoming adversity. His story is both an inspiration and a reminder that no medical condition should stand in the way of achieving one's goals.

Step into the world of The Break Plans: 

NJ alt-rockers emerged in 2019 with a modern-day formula of 80’s-influenced, poptimistic tunes that showcase a variety of styles. From polished pop to anthemic choruses to tender ballads ... singer Colton Braun, drummer Dan Carr & guitarist Mikey Strawz

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, witness how personal routines intersected with global events. Reflect on the challenges of military service and conveying the pandemic's severity to family. The discussion widens to highlighting music and creativity as sources of comfort during isolation.

Experience the band's journey navigating the creative process and group dynamics in a pandemic-challenged world. Discover how they managed pauses, refined their sound, and embraced virtual performances. Celebrate the unity within the group, the evolution of their songwriting, and the emotional highs and lows of creating music. From pondering future trends to sharing poignant stories of resilience, this episode showcases the band's creativity, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Join us for personal stories, creative insights, and exciting plans for the band's upcoming releases.

http://www.youtube.com/@TheBreakPlans

Reunions are powerful, especially when they bring together old friends with shared histories. Join us on a heartfelt journey as we reconnect with a dear friend and colleague from our Air Force days. We reflect on the bonds forged through Air Force recruiting, the mutual respect that has only grown over the years, and the logistical hurdles of bringing these stories to life on our podcast. Expect to hear deep insights into mental health, wellness, and the resilience that our experiences have nurtured.

One of the most poignant moments of this episode is the personal recount of navigating a rare kidney cancer diagnosis amidst the chaos of the early COVID-19 pandemic. From the initial shock to the intense whirlwind of treatments and the bittersweet balance of parenthood, we explore the emotional toll and the critical support systems that made all the difference. We'll share vivid stories, like scenes from a movie, that illustrate the raw and real journey of facing such a formidable challenge. 

Life's adversities, however, have a way of revealing our true strengths. This episode also takes you to unexpected places—from unique dining experiences in Vietnam to the trials and triumphs within a military career. Whether it's the incredible bond formed with fellow patients, the unwavering support from military leadership, or the joy and trials of fatherhood, this episode encapsulates the essence of perseverance, hope, and community. Listen in for an inspiring message on living with purpose and embracing the support systems around you.

Join us for an inspiring and transformative adventure, as we embark on a roller-coaster of emotions and self-discovery with our esteemed guest, PhD. Michael Kaufman. Prepare to be moved by the personal anecdotes of individuals who found their way to leadership by extending a helping hand to others, all the while grappling with self-doubt on their path to success.

Our expedition takes a fascinating twist as we delve into the world of military leadership, discovering the true power of delegation and the fine line that separates effective leadership from its unraveling. PhD. Kaufman graciously invites us into his world, from being a CEO to becoming an author, sharing the trials and tribulations that shaped his journey.

As we unwind, we'll meander down memory lane to our first jobs, reminiscing about the days when our youthful naivety made us feel like millionaires with those inaugural paychecks. PhD. Kaufman unveils his courageous leap from a lucrative accounting career to follow his passion for social work, reminding us all to fearlessly pursue our dreams.

Our episode concludes by shining a light on men's mental health, emphasizing the significance of self-care, and the profound impact of sharing our struggles. Join us on this profound voyage, enriched with wisdom, introspection, and personal stories that will inspire you on your path to leadership and success.

Natalie Farrell's journey transcends the boundaries of the stage, as she recently took to the virtual airwaves as a featured guest on "Spark.N.Stride," hosted by retired Air Force veteran Mach Ortiz. This burgeoning podcast is a dedicated platform for insightful discussions encompassing wellness, mental health, resiliency, and personal development. Its growing popularity attests to its ability to connect with and inspire its audience.

In this enlightening episode, Mach and Natalie engaged in an authentic and profoundly introspective conversation that explored her remarkable musical journey. They ventured back to the genesis of Natalie's passion for music, reminiscing about her early days performing gigs throughout the vibrant landscapes of New Jersey. From these modest beginnings, the conversation seamlessly evolves to the present, with Natalie's most recent accomplishment, her EP titled "MANTRA," now occupying a prominent position in her artistic catalog. During their conversation, listeners are provided with a vivid insight into the evolution of her artistry and the profound, emotional undercurrents flowing through her latest EP.

Their candid conversation ventures far beyond music, as both Mach and Natalie bravely allowed themselves to become vulnerable, sharing their personal life journeys. This vulnerability underscored the immense value it holds, serving as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and resilience. Their stories vividly illustrated how embracing life's challenges and setbacks can lead to transformative change. Their shared experiences shed light on the capacity not just to bounce back from adversity but also to flourish within it.

Mach and Natalie's willingness to open up and share their life stories enriched the podcast episode immeasurably. Their dialogue offered a wellspring of inspiration and insight for their listeners, a poignant reminder that amidst life's intricate twists and turns, the profound opportunity for personal growth, resilience, and the discovery of inner strength awaits.

Picture two young boys growing up together in the early 90s, dreaming of a future where they can escape the struggles they face daily. This is where my conversation with childhood friend, Dios Moreno begins. Fast forward to 25+ years later, we sit down to have an uninterrupted conversation, sharing our stories of resilience and hope, and how we transformed our humble beginnings into a motivation for success.

From the power of healing and breaking cycles of childhood trauma to the profound effects of music on personal development and therapy, we delve deep into our shared past. We touch on how we've been able to channel our personal experiences into our work - mine as a podcast host and Dios Moreno as an artist, inspired by the likes of Eminem, Jay Z, and 2Pac. This episode is a testament to the power of acceptance, transparency, and dedication to personal growth.

We also discuss the journey of building careers, focusing on our struggles and the rewarding outcomes. I share my vision of creating this podcast to help others explore different career paths and how setting up a studio has shaped my journey. Lastly, we pay homage to the inspirational artists who’ve shaped us and the role of personal development in our lives. So tune in, listen to our stories, and join us as we celebrate our past, present, and future.

In this powerful episode of Spark.N.Stride, we bring you the incredible journey of Max Gomez, the founder of AMP'd Fitness, who faced a life-altering accident that tested his resilience and mental fortitude like never before. At just 18 years old, Max's life took an unexpected turn when he lost his leg in a devastating motocross accident. But rather than letting this tragedy define him, Max turned it into a powerful source of inspiration.

Max's story is a testament to the unbreakable human spirit and the true meaning of leadership. He not only rebuilt his life but also founded AMP'd Fitness, a fitness movement that has touched the lives of countless individuals, motivating them to overcome their own obstacles and achieve their fitness goals.

But Max's journey would not have been possible without the unwavering love and support of his family, who played a crucial role in putting him back together, both physically and emotionally. Their dedication and encouragement have been instrumental in Max's remarkable transformation.

Join us as we delve into Max Gomez's awe-inspiring story of resilience, determination, and the power of family. Prepare to be moved, motivated, and inspired by a true leader who has turned tragedy into triumph. Max Gomez is living proof that with the right mindset, anything is possible.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories like Max's. Hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest content that celebrates the human spirit and the triumph of the human will and remember to always stay sparkd! Spark.N.Stride!

https://ampdfitnessnj.com/

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