The Power to Pivot Podcast

Late-Diagnosed Autism, Belonging, and Rethinking “Ordinary” with Crystal Underwood

Elizabeth welcomes author and audiobook narrator Crystal Underwood back to the Power to Pivot podcast. Diagnosed with autism at 57, Crystal reflects on reinterpreting her childhood, repairing relationships, and creating inclusive children’s books that help kids see difference as something other than a flaw.

• Crystal shares how workplace struggles and intense emotional reactions prompted her to seek an autism assessment after years of changing diagnoses.
• She describes how the diagnosis helped her reconsider childhood experiences, including being labeled sassy or inattentive, and understand her reactions through a new lens.
• Crystal discusses apologizing to her daughter and having difficult conversations with family, while emphasizing that understanding her autism is not an excuse for hurtful behavior.
• She explains why she ended two long-term friendships that harmed her mental health, how therapy helped her through the grief, and how she built new, more balanced friendships.
• Crystal talks about masking, late diagnosis, and why she chooses to be open about being autistic rather than hiding an important part of herself.
• She and Elizabeth discuss responding to children’s feelings with curiosity, noticing changes in behavior, and asking what might be behind a child’s distress rather than dismissing it as misbehavior.
• Crystal describes how text and email can lead to misunderstandings, especially when people interpret direct communication as harsh or accusatory.
• She introduces Ordinary Schmordinary, a children’s book about Gigi, who compares herself to others before recognizing that being different can be something to value.
• Crystal explains how her books turn labels such as “sensitive” and “anxious” into opportunities for understanding, and shares plans for more books, character puppets, and readings for children.
• The conversation closes on kindness, self-advocacy, and making room for people rather than expecting everyone to fit the same idea of “normal.”

Timestamps00:49 - Crystal’s late diagnosis and the story behind Ordinary Schmordinary
05:40 - Receiving an autism diagnosis at 57
07:24 - Workplace struggles that led Crystal to seek answers
09:52 - Looking back at childhood with a new understanding
11:21 - Healing old wounds and apologizing to her daughter
14:12 - Navigating difficult conversations with family
17:32 - Masking, comparison, and finding people who understand
18:31 - Ending draining friendships and building healthier ones
22:51 - What masking can hide from family and friends
26:08 - Childhood labels, accommodations, and self-advocacy
30:48 - Asking children what they feel instead of calling it misbehavior
35:32 - How direct emails and texts can be misread
38:04 - Modeling kinder communication in a divided society
43:43 - The inspiration and message behind Ordinary Schmordinary
48:51 - Where to find the book and how Crystal hopes to share it
54:40 - Why Crystal leaves “the end” out of her children’s stories
57:03 - Advice for parents who notice a child struggling
60:03 - Gigi’s journey from wanting to be ordinary to embracing difference
65:04 - Where to find Crystal and her booksFind Ordinary Schmordinary: https://tinyurl.com/4chfz5uy

Connect with Cristal: https://www.instagram.com/cristalunderwood68/

In the newest episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, we sit down with Danielle MacDaniel, CEO and Founder of The Art of The Bean, to talk about how she turned passion into purpose — one cup of coffee at a time.

Danielle discusses how she founded The Art of The Bean, a company that blends community with the bold flavor of high-quality coffee. Join us as we explore:

• The mission behind The Art of The Bean

• Staying true to your mission and vision

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, coffee lover, or creative spirit looking for motivation to make your next big pivot, this conversation shares insights you won’t want to miss.

🔗 Follow The Art of The Bean Online or



Follow The Brew: Facebook or Instagram or visit in person at 417 Hamlin Highway, Lake Ariel, PA

The Power to Pivot Podcast is your go-to resource for real stories of reinvention, resilience, and rising above. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!

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#Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #CoffeeIndustry #PurposeDrivenBrand #CreativeEntrepreneurs #StartupStories #SmallBusiness #FemaleFounder #ArtAndCoffee #BusinessPodcast #ThePowerToPivot

The Power to Pivot Podcast: Episode with Heather Tracy

In this episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, we welcome author Heather Tracy, whose novel Only A Chapter takes readers on an emotional journey of self-discovery and romance. Clare O’Donnell is stuck in a dead-end relationship, until a life-changing phone call alters her world. In one timeline, her biopsy results are positive for cancer; in another, they’re benign. In one reality, the faceless person from her dreams becomes masculine; in another, feminine. As Clare navigates these diverging paths, she begins to understand the power of her dreams and the events that shape her life—especially the fatal car crash that took her parents.

Heather discusses the themes of resilience, love, and the constant evolution of self that unfold in Clare’s life. No matter what challenges Clare faces, she learns that these divergent timelines represent just a chapter in her journey. Join us for an insightful conversation about how one phone call, one decision, or one moment can pivot your entire life.

Purchase Now:

Space Wizard Store

Bookshop.org

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

Amazon

Connect with Heather on Social Media:

Social Media for Heather Tracy, Author/Editor:

• Facebook: @HeatherTracyAuthor
• Instagram: @hunnyjar319
• Bluesky: @heathertracyauthor.bsky.social

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Power to Pivot Podcast, where we dive deep into transformative stories, personal growth, and the art of pivoting to unlock new possibilities. In today’s episode, we are joined by Amanda Johnson, AKA The Story Oracle, a gifted storyteller, writer, and healing guide, who shares the profound impact of writing as a healing art.

In "How Writing Heals: The Healing Art of Storytelling," Amanda unpacks the transformative power of storytelling and how it can be used to heal emotional wounds, recover from trauma, and create a deeper connection with oneself. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a creative spirit, or someone seeking new ways to heal, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you explore the healing potential of writing and storytelling.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How writing for healing can lead to emotional recovery and personal growth
• The profound connection between storytelling and mental health
• How creative expression through writing can alleviate stress and trauma
• Tips for using storytelling as a daily tool for self-reflection and healing
• Practical ways to start your writing journey to support emotional wellness

About Amanda:

Amanda Johnson alchemizes twenty-five years of transformative experiences through story literacy, writing, and narrative medicine to fulfill her mission through The Story Oracle and Saved By Story: to equip individuals to use humanity’s most innate tools to transmute the pain of their backstory into a more magically-ever-after for themselves, their loved ones, and those they serve.

BOOKS 

You Can’t Make This St*ry Up: https://a.co/d/dsJrRZZ 

Raised by Story: https://a.co/d/dToxbPd 

Upside-Down Mommy: https://a.co/d/7yskzcZ 

Upside-Down Messenger: https://a.co/d/glG7v9d 

SOCIAL MEDIA

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thestoryoracle114/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/thestoryoracle114 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thestoryoracle114/ 

Website:

www.SavedByStory.house - Writing, Publishing, and Story-saving for Individuals

www.The-Story-Oracle.com - Speaking & Facilitating Story Literacy and Story-saving for Communities and Organizations FREEBIES / FORESHADOWS 

Full Menu: www.SavedByStory.house/foreshadows 

Write: https://savedbystory.lp.page/true-intention

Save: https://savedbystory.lp.page/stop-the-story-loop 

Join the Power to Pivot Community:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a 5-star review! Share this episode with anyone who is looking to heal and grow through the art of storytelling. Let’s continue the conversation online using the hashtag #PowerToPivot.

Subscribe, Listen & Share:

• Hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode!
• Share this episode with anyone ready to heal through the power of writing and storytelling.

Visit March Forth Media Company online at:

www.marchforthmediacompany.com

In this powerful episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, we sit down with renowned musician and author, Cliff Beach. Cliff shares his inspiring journey through the music industry, where he encountered his personal pivot point—realizing that taking control of his health was key to living a fulfilled life. This realization led to his new book, Shape Up, a guide that blends personal wellness and the discipline needed to achieve lasting change.

Throughout this episode, Cliff dives deep into the concepts of true grit and mental discipline, sharing how these principles have helped him navigate both his career and health journey. We also explore his candid commentary on today’s medical industry and how it often misses the mark when it comes to holistic approaches to wellness.

This conversation will leave you inspired to take control of your own health, recognize the power of emotional release, and understand that we are far more capable of overcoming disease than we might realize.

Key Takeaways:

• Cliff Beach’s personal pivot story from musician to health advocate
• Understanding true grit and discipline as tools for transformation
• The importance of emotional release in healing
• Insightful commentary on the medical industry's approach to wellness
• How to take control of your health and shape a better future

"Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up!" is a call to action for your health. With practical advice and motivation, inspiring you to take control of your health and transform your life. Join Cliff Beach on this transformative journey. Step towards a healthier, happier you today!

Purchase a copy of the audiobook on Amazon, Audible, and Barnes and Noble.Connect with Cliff Beach:

Website: https://sidehustleandflow.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliffbeachmusic 

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

Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/cliffbeachmusic Whether you're struggling with your own health journey or looking for inspiration to make a pivot in your life, this episode will help you tap into your potential and embrace the power of discipline and self-care. Tune in on Spotify, Amazon, iTunes, or YouTube for this transformative episode!

In this powerful episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, we dive deep into the importance of replacing toxic masculinity with a life rooted in Christ.

Host Elizabeth Miles sits down with Dante Donaldson, founder of Forged Through Fire, a faith-based wellness company that empowers men to align mentally, physically, and spiritually in order to live out their true purpose. Together, they challenge the status quo of modern masculinity and explore what it truly means to follow Christ’s example of love, service, and leadership.

Dante shares his wisdom on how men can break free from societal pressures and rediscover their calling through a Christ-centered life. They discuss the illusion of love and masculinity that the world promotes, and how aligning with God’s purpose can bring clarity and peace.

This episode is a reminder that when you tap into the divine agreement you made with God, everything you desire—peace, purpose, and fulfillment—is not only possible but easier to achieve than you think.

If you're ready to break free from toxic masculinity and embrace a life of service, love, and spiritual growth, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to serve like Christ and create a positive impact in your home, community, and beyond.

Own your spot at the executive level! In this inspiring episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, best-selling author and influencer Kelly Resendez shares her insights on how women can redefine their roles in business and leadership. Kelly dives deep into the importance of breaking free from societal expectations and guilt that often hold women back from achieving their full potential.

Kelly discusses the transformative power of adopting an abundance mindset and why it’s essential to throw "should" out the window to make decisions that align with your true goals. As a passionate advocate for empowering women in business, she highlights why we need more women at the top, leading with confidence, authenticity, and strength.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to challenge traditional leadership models, redefine what success looks like, and take bold steps to elevate your career and impact. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not quite fitting in or doubted your right to lead, this conversation will encourage you to step into your power and make your mark in the world of business and leadership.

Key Takeaways:

If you’re ready to make a bold pivot in your career and embrace your true potential, don’t miss this episode with Kelly Resendez, where we discuss powerful strategies for empowerment, leadership, and success.

Connect with Kelly Resendez: www.kellyresendez.com

Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_resendez/

More about March Forth Media Company and The Power to Pivot Podcast: www.marchforthmediacompany.com

Listen to the latest episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast featuring author Kristina Kelly as she dives deep into her upcoming novel, Tavern Tale, a cozy sapphic fantasy perfect for fans of heartwarming adventures and strong female protagonists. Launching January 7th, Tavern Tale weaves together magic, romance, and unforgettable characters. Kristina shares her journey of writing this enchanting world and reveals how her love for video games influenced the story.

This episode is a must-listen for fantasy lovers, especially those who adore cozy fantasy, sapphic romance, and LGBTQ+ fiction. Whether you're a fan of slow-burn romance, magical taverns, or captivating world-building, Kristina's story is bound to sweep you away.

🔮 Don’t miss out! Pre-order Tavern Tale now to be one of the first to experience this magical adventure. Listen to the episode to hear exclusive insights about the book!

Pre-order available: https://kristinaseyes.com/

Kristina's Instagram

Kristina's LinkTree

Check out other episodes of The Power to Pivot Podcast:

www.marchforthmediacompany.com

In this powerful episode of The Power to Pivot Podcast, host Elizabeth Miles] sits down with Michelle Hawk, an expert in alchemy and spiritual transformation, to explore the profound stages of alchemy and how to harness this ancient practice in today’s fast-paced world. Michelle shares her personal journey to discovering alchemy and the powerful ways it has shaped her life and mindset.

Together, we dive deep into the science vs. spirituality debate, unpacking how understanding the cycles of life can help us let go of resistance and flow with ease. Whether you’re seeking personal transformation, deeper understanding of spiritual technologies, or just curious about the alchemical path, this episode offers insights that will empower and inspire you.

Tune in to learn how to embrace change, surrender to life’s natural rhythms, and unlock the power of transformation within yourself. Get ready to pivot, evolve, and thrive on this journey of spiritual awakening.

Stay Connected with Michelle Hawk and Download Michelle's Guide - Which Stage of Alchemy Are You In?:

Create your most fulfilling chapter in life through purposeful retirement planning! Join the latest conversation on The Power to Pivot Podcast, where certified Retirement Wellness Coach shares tools, strategies, and tips to overcome anxiety around retirement.

Are you feeling anxious about retirement? Struggling with the idea of retirement denial or the societal pressures around aging? Wendy shares her expert insights on how to overcome these challenges and shift your mindset to embrace retirement as an exciting new chapter, rather than something to fear.

Whether you're planning for retirement or already there, this episode will guide you through strategies for creating a purposeful, healthy, and fulfilling life after your career ends.

Wendy explains how to stop asking, “What am I retiring to?” and start creating a retirement that supports your well-being, passions, and legacy.

Key Takeaways:

If you're ready to make the most of this next chapter, tune in and learn how to create a retirement that’s not just about financial security, but about living with intentionality, growth, and joy.

ABOUT WENDY:

Connect w/ Wendy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyleggett

https://confluxretirementcoaching.com/

Retirement Readiness Workbook: https://bit.ly/44Ufsnm

ABOUT THIS PODCAST:

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring episodes that will empower you to take charge of your future and pivot into a life of purpose.

WEBSITE: WWW.MARCHFORTHMEDIACOMPANY.COM