Untrapped: Building a Life Beyond Business

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Stephanie Sherwood, founder of The Tapestry Network, a platform that intersects faith, professional development, and personal growth for Christian women entrepreneurs. 

With a rich background including 15 years in corporate leadership at Macy's and launching a mobile boutique, Stephanie transitioned into creating a nonprofit that empowers women across multiple regions. 

Discover her unique Business Tree framework that goes beyond networking by integrating purpose, community, and professional excellence. 

Stephanie also shares inspirational stories from her personal and professional journey, her upcoming book 'The Tapestry Effect,' and her commitment to establishing over a thousand support groups globally. 

Dive into her insights on the power of healing, the importance of personal stories, and her vision for the future. 

Whether you're an entrepreneur or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways and uplifting stories.

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Rita Ferrandino on AI Disruption, Growth Strategy, and Scaling Education Companies | Untrapped

In this episode of Untrapped, we're joined by Rita Ferrandino, founding partner of Arc Capital Development, to discuss how she helps education and training companies at inflection points accelerate growth through strategic planning, operational efficiency, talent alignment, and, when needed, capital raises, M&A, or acquisition prep.

Rita explains why many businesses are struggling amid a downturn affecting small and mid-sized firms and argues that superficial AI adoption (like isolated trainings or “we use AI internally”) is insufficient without rethinking strategy, risk tolerance, revenue diversification, and HR to ensure A-player teams.

Rita shares how Arc quickly upskilled by building AI “clones” and voices, and why buy-versus-build and acquiring AI talent can create market advantage.

She cautions that AI can create false confidence if leaders expect it to fix broken processes, and emphasizes disciplined planning, resilience, and skating to where customer demand is going.

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Embracing the Future with Empathy: A Conversation with Joyce Gioia

Join us in this riveting episode of Untrapped with Joyce Gioia, a world-class futurist and bestselling author. 

Joyce's latest book, Experience Rules, combines her vast experience in marketing and human resources to create a holistic approach to driving profit through positive experiences. 

We dive deep into her insights on AI, technology adoption, and the importance of empathy. 

Learn about Joyce's fascinating career journey from the youngest national magazine publisher to her current focus on employee retention and leadership development. 

Whether you're curious about AI's role in the future workplace or seeking ways to blend technology with a people-first approach, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice.

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Strategic Foresight, Judgment, and Leading Through Uncertainty in the Age of AI with Bill Fournet

Bill Fournet, founder and CEO of The Persimmon Group, has spent over 30 years helping executives across industries navigate complex transformation, including guiding projects exceeding $10 billion and earning recognition from the US Chamber of Commerce and the Inc. 500.

Bill’s focus is on strategic planning, leadership development, and building organizational rhythm amid rapid change, emphasizing self-awareness and judgment over rigid process, and warning against hero-based, high-stress cultures that don’t scale.

He believes in coaching judgment through questioning, debriefs, and avoiding complacency, and outlines how leaders should approach AI with strategy and courage rather than letting IT dictate direction, keeping human discernment in the loop.

Bill coaches his clients to hire for critical thinking and communication, improve meetings with his POP framework, and previews his upcoming book, “The Map vs. the Terrain.”

Don't miss it!

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From Dyslexia to Million Dollar Success: Scott Ballard's Entrepreneurial Journey

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Scott Ballard, the founder of Confidence Coach LLC. 

Growing up with dyslexia, Scott didn't just overcome his learning challenges—he transformed them into a foundation for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey, creating multiple businesses and even a thriving leadership development company. 

Learn about Scott's unique approach, his top industry performances, and the impactful work he's done around the world, from corporate consulting to creating the largest job incubator in Africa. 

Discover powerful insights on embracing limitations, finding true identity, and the integral role of faith in personal and professional success.

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When we think about communication, often it's just about talking. 

But Laurie Brown, a global communication strategist, unveils how communication can transform careers and businesses. 

Laurie shares her journey from acting in training films to becoming a communication expert working with Fortune 500 companies and small businesses globally. 

She delves into her 'Chameleon Communication' approach, her transition during COVID-19, and the impact of AI on communication. 

Laurie also discusses the evolving customer service landscape, the significance of effective listening, and the challenges of modern-day communication. 

Whether you're a business leader, a technical expert, or a parent, this episode is full of actionable insights on enhancing your communication skills. 

Tune in to discover how Laurie helps professionals adapt and excel in any situation.

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Thriving Under Pressure: Bill Benjamin's Journey from Tech VP to Leadership Expert

Join us in this episode as we welcome Bill Benjamin, partner at the Institute for Health and Human Potential and co-author of the New York Times bestseller, 'Performing Under Pressure.' 

Bill shares insights from his 25+ years helping organizations like NASA, the US Marines, and Goldman Sachs transform pressure into a competitive advantage. 

Discover Bill's transition from a mathematics and computer science background to focusing on emotional intelligence and leadership. 

Learn how his neuroscience-based approach has helped companies like Intel and Coca-Cola improve team performance and reduce turnover. 

Bill also discusses the importance of both connection and courage in high-performing cultures and the concept of navigating 'the last 8%' of challenging conversations. 

Tune in for actionable strategies to handle high-stakes moments and drive success both in the workplace and at home.

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Transforming Financial Chaos to Strategic Success with Tuesday Brooks | Untrapped

Join us in this episode of Untrapped as we delve into the inspiring journey of Tuesday Brooks, a US Army veteran, financial consultant, and founder of AJOY Management. 

From her military service to advanced degrees at Columbia and NYU, and becoming a Goldman Sachs business advisor, Tuesday has truly lived the transformation she teaches. 

Learn about her 'pretty financials' approach to bookkeeping that empowers women-led businesses. 

Discover how Tuesday balances marketing, business development, and personal time while navigating the impacts of AI on her firm. 

Whether you're a small business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories.

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The Legendary Voice of College Wrestling Shares His Lifelong Journey

Join us in this compelling episode with Tim Johnson, a legendary American wrestling commentator and a lifelong leader of champions. 

For 45 years, Tim has nurtured athletes and business influencers across the Midwest. 

From overcoming a catastrophic lawnmower accident at age six to becoming the longest-tenured broadcaster in college wrestling history, Tim's story is inspiring. 

He has coached state champions, worked with USA Wrestling at the 1984 Olympics, and become a fixture on Iowa Public Television, ESPN, and the Big Ten Network, calling nearly 500 collegiate meets. 

As a member of multiple halls of fame and the former leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Tim now focuses on helping people flourish in the 'third third' of their lives. 

Tune in to hear his wisdom on leadership, coaching, and the power of encouragement.

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Building Lifelong Connections: The Self-Discovery Approach to Matchmaking with Alexandra Freeman

Join us in this episode of 'Untrapped' as we dive deep into the art of matchmaking with Alexandra Freeman, the co-founder of Introductions Inc.

Alexandra shares her revolutionary 'self-discovery before dating' methodology which focuses on personal growth and introspection as a foundation for building meaningful relationships. 

Discover how her boutique matchmaking service for high-end professionals in the US, Canada, and internationally goes beyond traditional matchmaking to help clients truly understand themselves. 

Alexandra also touches on the benefits of building social circles through hobbies and in-person events, the impact of technology and AI on the dating landscape, and provides valuable insights on guiding loved ones into successful relationships. 

Tune in for a fascinating conversation filled with practical advice and industry insights.

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