Take the Elevator

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We reflect on our personal and professional journeys through hits and misses, exploring how losses often transform into surprising victories when we maintain grit and determination.

• Career setbacks can feel devastating but often lead to unexpected opportunities
• Transitioning from a stable career to uncertainty requires tremendous mental fortitude
• Developing Essential Medical Services as entrepreneurs emerged directly from previous career losses
• Small victories like creating professional filing systems and payroll processes became meaningful milestones
• Having a "scrappy fighter" mentality helps transform defeats into future successes
• Finding joy in the process rather than just celebrating results sustains motivation
• "Make some noise" philosophy means creating your own positive momentum amid life's distractions
• Grit isn't necessarily about constant grinding but about maintaining belief in your purpose
• Removing time-wasting activities creates space for meaningful growth and achievement
• Hope serves as the fuel that keeps us moving forward with confidence that "the best is still ahead."

Check out our website at TheGenko.com to stay connected and share your own stories of transformation.

Look up, and let's elevate!

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Feeling overlooked, undervalued, or sidelined in your career or personal life? This powerful episode transforms the concept of being "benched" from a negative experience into a strategic advantage that can propel you toward future success.

Drawing from basketball metaphors and real-world examples, we unpack how being on the bench gives you unique perspective—allowing you to observe the game, learn from others' mistakes, and develop strategies before you're thrust into the spotlight. Rather than viewing these moments as rejection, we reframe them as essential preparation time for your eventual call-up.

We share vulnerable personal stories about times we were pushed into situations we weren't ready for—including a devastating singing performance that crushed confidence for over a year—highlighting why sometimes the bench is exactly where you need to be while developing your skills. But we also address when being perpetually sidelined might signal it's time to find a new "team" where your talents will be better utilized.

The episode offers practical strategies for those currently feeling benched: how to stay engaged, continue developing your skills in the shadows, and ensure you're ready when opportunity knocks. We emphasize the importance of communicating your readiness to leadership with the simple but powerful message: "Put me in coach, I'm ready to play."

Whether you're currently starting in your field or waiting for your big break, this conversation provides valuable perspective on maximizing every position you find yourself in. Remember, championship teams need reliable bench players just as much as they need stars—and your time to shine may be closer than you think.

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March Madness takes on new meaning as we tackle the wild journey of menopause with humor, wisdom, and refreshing honesty. Joined by special guest Lovella, a healthcare communications expert with personal experience navigating "the change," we break down the physical, emotional, and relationship dynamics of this transformative life phase.

What begins as a candid conversation about hot flashes and hormone therapy quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of how menopause reshapes women's relationships with their bodies, partners, and sense of self. "When the plane is crashing, you don't know that," Lovella explains, perfectly capturing how menopause can feel from the inside while appearing like "bad behavior" from the outside. Together, we dismantle misconceptions about treatment options, physical changes, and the psychological impact of society's youth-obsessed culture on women experiencing menopause.

Beyond symptoms, our discussion reveals the unexpected gifts menopause brings – increased patience, deeper wisdom, and greater authenticity. We offer practical advice for managing everything from brain fog to decreased libido, while emphasizing the importance of partner education and communication. Whether you're approaching menopause, currently navigating it, or supporting someone who is, this episode provides both comfort and actionable strategies for embracing this significant life transition with grace and strength.

Discover why half the population deserves more than silence around this universal experience. Listen, learn, and share – because knowledge truly is power when it comes to understanding and supporting women through menopause.

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Ready to escape the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle? Dreaming of turning that spark of an idea into a thriving side business? This game-changing episode breaks down exactly how to launch a successful side hustle without overwhelming yourself or sacrificing your day job.

We dive into the story of Sarah Blakely, who transformed from selling fax machines door-to-door to becoming the billionaire founder of Spanx – all by working on her passion project during off-hours. Her journey proves you don't need special credentials, just determination and a solution to a common problem.

Discover how to find your perfect side hustle at the intersection of three crucial questions: What are you good at? What do you enjoy? What do people need? We explore practical examples from blogging and social media management to crafting and virtual fitness coaching that can generate extra income while aligning with your natural talents.

The episode tackles common roadblocks head-on, from imposter syndrome ("Who am I to start a business?") to time management challenges. You'll learn why "test before you invest" should be your mantra and how becoming "neighborhood famous" before trying to go global creates sustainable growth. As Mel Robbins wisely notes, "The biggest killer of side hustles isn't failure – it's never starting."

Whether you're seeking financial freedom, creative fulfillment, or an escape from a soul-crushing 9-to-5, this episode provides the blueprint and motivation to take that crucial first step today. What passion could you transform into profit? Let's build this movement together.

Look-up, and let's elevate!

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Are you feeling stuck in the cycle of planning and hesitating? March is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to break free and start pursuing your goals. In our latest episode, we dive deep into a powerful three-step approach: Get Ready, Set, Go. This episode is designed to inspire listeners who want to transform their dreams into actionable steps. 

We delve into the importance of proper preparation—how gathering your thoughts and resources can lay the groundwork for success. You’ll learn how to create a solid structure for your time by setting clear accountability measures, ensuring that you stay on track. The conversation is enriched with personal experiences and insights that showcase how taking action provides clarity and momentum. 

Join us as we encourage you to break free from procrastination and take charge of your goals. It’s time to embrace the concept that action creates clarity, and creating a pattern of continuous movement can lead to unexpected outcomes. March is your moment to rise to the occasion! Don’t just wait for the right time—make it happen today! Your journey starts here, so listen now, reflect, and prepare to elevate your life!

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The journey of caring for aging parents can be both a challenge and a blessing. As roles shift, our responsibilities transform, often leading us to confront complex emotions like guilt and sadness. In this episode, we explore these themes, sharing our personal experiences and insights into the delicate balancing act of caregiving. 

We break down the various sides of this role, touching on emotional hurdles and practical needs, while offering pointers on how to navigate the complexities of family dynamics. From recognizing the necessity for advanced planning to making room for those all-important conversations with your loved ones, we share how to make this journey not just bearable but also enriching.

In true heartfelt fashion, we emphasize the importance of opening up dialogues with our aging parents—asking about their stories, concerns, and desires, as well as sharing our own. These exchanges can create bonds and memories that stand the test of time. Remember that caregiving is a collective journey; seek support and stay engaged with resources designed to ease your path. 

Join us in celebrating the small moments of joy amidst the challenges, and let’s find ways to elevate the meaningful stories within our families. Ready to take on the challenge? 

Look up, and let's elevate. 

Research & Resources for Discussion: 

1. AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) - Resources on aging and caregiving. 

2. The National Institute of Aging - Health and caregiving guides. 

3. The Caregiver Action Network - Tips for caregivers managing stress. 

4. Books: 

- Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

- The 36-Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins

5. Be proactive and search podcasts and videos 

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What if embracing change isn't as daunting as it seems? Join us on an emotional journey as we unpack personal revelations from a challenging illness and explore the profound insights gained during recovery.

Dive into a spirited discussion on balancing life's daily tasks amidst trials and triumphs. We examine how media influences our mood and the necessity of consuming uplifting content to set a positive tone for the day. With a keen eye on gender dynamics, we explore perceptions of control in various aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of understanding and maintaining friendships despite differing views. By sharing our journey from managing burnout to celebrating creativity, we aim to inspire resilience and encourage listeners to pursue their passions with vigor and joy. Get ready for a burst of inspiration and motivation to elevate your everyday experiences!

Look-up, and let's elevate - together!

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Friendships can be a rollercoaster, can't they? We dive into the emotional complexities of friendships that shift from delightful to demanding, sharing stories of how one-sided relationships can lead to gossip and hurt. An incident that tested our own friendships sparks a conversation on recognizing when relationships need a healthy stretch or a serious reassessment. We also touch on professional strains, hinting at future discussions about workplace boundaries and tensions. It's a heartfelt reflection on the nuances of human connection and the need for mindful relationship management.

Embracing change is a theme that resonates with us all. We recount personal stories of leaving toxic work environments to chase opportunities that align with our passions. This isn't just about quitting a job; it's about the courage to pursue growth and never settling for complacency. We introduce the empowering concept of a "stretch partner," someone who shares your dreams and keeps you motivated. As we visualize our return to the stage, we invite you to dream big and share your goals with your stretch partner. Celebrate your milestones, embrace challenges, and find joy in the journey of growth—professionally and personally.

Look up, and let's elevate! 

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Ever wondered how dreams can not only shape our lives but also guide our personal and collective aspirations? Inspired by the timeless "I Have a Dream" speech by Martin Luther King Jr., we explore the power of dreams in forging our personal visions and the synergy that arises when we support each other’s ambitions. Elevate becomes more than just a mantra; it’s a call to action for infusing positivity and growth into everyday life. Discover the profound impact of nurturing dreams and how they can propel us forward without leaving any room for harm.

We celebrate the liberating journey of pursuing dreams with authenticity. Personal anecdotes reveal the transformative power of stepping out in faith and distinguishing between living our dreams versus conforming to someone else’s success blueprint. We share the inspiring evolution of the upcoming book "Just an LVN" and highlight how collaboration and support can breathe life into creative projects. With each small step forward, we’re reminded of the importance of dreaming big and the undeniable joy that stems from aligning our dreams with our true values and talents.

Look-up, and let's elevate!

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Can you achieve an unoffendable state of mind, or is it just an idealistic dream? GentheBuilder and Kory tackle this thought-provoking question by examining how staying connected to our emotions is vital in a world of challenges. We share our insights on balancing the need to stay informed about current events with pursuing personal goals, ensuring we remain engaged without becoming detached or inadvertently offending others. 

Through candid stories, we reveal how false positivity can overshadow serious problems, particularly within the healthcare sector. We spotlight the emotional hurdles nurses face, emphasizing the need for empathy and high emotional intelligence when dealing with patients who may unintentionally offend. The conversation extends to the misuse of power, advocating for improved training for those in authority to prevent abuse and create a more supportive environment.

Truth, apologies, and forgiveness are discussed as powerful tools for personal growth and conflict resolution. 

Look up and elevate! 

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