UpShift Podcast

In this episode of the UpShift podcast, Angel Howard sits down with transition coach and former global executive Art Blanchford to discuss burnout, identity, purpose, and what happens when success no longer feels fulfilling. Art shares his journey from leading multi-billion dollar companies and earning a seven-figure income to walking away from corporate life after severe burnout forced him to rethink everything. Together, they explore the emotional struggles many high-achieving men face, including workaholism, lack of meaning, depression, and the pressure to constantly perform. The conversation also dives into vulnerability, relationships, emotional awareness, and how partners can support each other through major life transitions. Art explains why connection, stillness, and self-reflection are essential for creating a meaningful second half of life, and why purpose matters more than status or achievement.

Takeaways

• Art Blanchford left a high-level corporate career after burnout forced him to reevaluate his life.
• Many successful people discover that achievement alone does not create fulfillment.
• Transition periods often feel messy, uncertain, and uncomfortable, but growth happens inside that space.
• Workaholism and constant performance can lead to emotional exhaustion and “deaths of despair.”
• Men often struggle with emotional literacy because they were taught to suppress vulnerability.
• Authentic connection with other people is critical during periods of depression or identity shifts.
• Slowing down and creating silence helps people reconnect with purpose and inner guidance.
• Relationships improve when partners support each other’s personal growth without shame or control.
• Retirement without purpose can lead to depression if people do not develop meaning beyond work.
• Purpose, service, and self-awareness create a more fulfilling second half of life.

Today's guest, Art Blanchford, can be found at:

Personal Website: https://artblanchford.com/

Website: https://pinnacleleadership.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-blanchford/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/art.blanchford

Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTransitionPodcast, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-in-transition-podcast/id1655416159

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

burnout, transition, purpose, fulfillment, workaholism, emotional intelligence, vulnerability, depression, success, meaning, coaching, relationships, self-worth, men’s mental health, leadership, identity, recovery, emotional literacy, mindfulness, connection, retirement, personal growth, authenticity, spirituality, healing, transformation, self-reflection, life transition, mental wellness, coaching for men

In this conversation, Dr. Corey Winn discusses how women can lead, grow, and pursue their dreams from a place of clarity, trust, and joy. She explains why many women lose touch with what they want, how societal expectations shape their choices, and why community, coaching, and self-investment can help them move into a more aligned life. The discussion also explores fear, self-trust, non-negotiables, changing friendships, and the courage it takes to stop asking for permission and start building the life you truly want.

Takeaways

• Clarity begins with asking, “What do I want?”
• Women often lose touch with their own needs while caring for others.
• Knowing what you do not want can help reveal what you do want.
• Joy and delight can guide better life and business choices.
• Societal expectations often keep women in roles that no longer fit.
• Growth may require letting go of relationships that no longer support you.
• Supportive community helps women hold bigger dreams.
• Journaling can help uncover desires, non-negotiables, and next steps.
• Investing in coaching can help build self-trust and confidence.
• Women do not need permission to pursue the life they want.

Today's guest, Dr. Corey Winn, can be found at:

Website: https://coreywinn.com/

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

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

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

leadership, women entrepreneurs, self-trust, coaching, clarity, joy, alignment, purpose, wealth, legacy, community, personal growth, non-negotiables, mindset, confidence, entrepreneurship, self-investment, dreams, burnout, life transitions

In this episode, Angel Howard speaks with Dr. Kristen Williamson, a professional counselor specializing in neurodivergence, about what it means to have an ADHD or autistic brain, which she refers to as “neuro-spicy.” Dr. Williamson shares her personal diagnosis journey and explains how differences in dopamine processing, executive function, and cognitive patterns shape behavior, productivity, and emotional regulation. The conversation explores common traits such as task initiation challenges, hyperfocus, sensory sensitivities, and the need for structure, while also reframing these traits as strengths rather than deficits. They also discuss practical strategies for self-awareness, workplace leadership, and communication, including how to better support neurodivergent individuals in professional environments. The episode emphasizes normalization, self-acceptance, and leveraging unique cognitive styles for creativity, productivity, and success.

Takeaways

• “Neuro-spicy” is a reframing of neurodivergence that highlights strengths and individuality.
• ADHD and autism involve differences in dopamine regulation, affecting motivation, focus, and reward.
• Executive dysfunction can impact task initiation, completion, and time management.
• Neurodivergent individuals may experience cycles of hyperfocus followed by loss of interest.
• Sensory sensitivities and cognitive rigidity are common, especially in autism.
• Many adults may be undiagnosed due to cost and limited access to assessments.
• Self-awareness and environmental adjustments can be as powerful as formal diagnosis.
• Structure helps neurodivergent individuals thrive, even if they resist imposed systems.
• Workplace leaders can better support teams by focusing on strengths and providing clear expectations and flexibility.
• Spoon theory explains energy management, showing how daily tasks deplete limited mental and physical resources.

Today's guest, Dr. Kristin Williamson, can be found at:

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

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrKristenLPC

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, neuro-spicy, dopamine, executive dysfunction, hyperfocus, sensory sensitivity, cognitive rigidity, spoon theory, mental health, productivity, workplace leadership, time management, emotional regulation, self-awareness, entrepreneurship, creativity, brain function

In this episode, Angel Howard speaks with relationship and dating coach Bernardo “Bern” Mendez about the realities and opportunities of midlife dating. Bern explains why many people struggle in relationships, not because they are flawed, but because they were never taught the necessary skills for intimacy and connection. The conversation explores how limiting beliefs formed early in life can shape dating patterns, and how shifting emotional states, daily habits, and nervous system responses can create lasting change. Bern also challenges common myths about love, including “the one” and instant chemistry, while offering practical strategies for building confidence, redefining relationship expectations, and reigniting intimacy in long-term partnerships through vulnerability and communication.

Takeaways

• Midlife dating offers a unique opportunity to redefine relationship goals with greater self-awareness.
• Relationship struggles often stem from a lack of learned skills, not personal failure.
• Emotional “state” or mindset directly influences beliefs, confidence, and dating outcomes.
• Daily rituals like movement, breathing, and intentional habits can shift mindset and behavior.
• Regulating the nervous system is key to overcoming fear and triggers in dating.
• Many limiting beliefs are reinforced over time but can be changed through new experiences.
• Common dating myths, such as “the one” or instant chemistry, can limit relationship success.
• Expanding non-negotiables versus nice-to-haves increases the chances of finding a partner.
• Vulnerability and honest communication are essential for rebuilding or deepening intimacy.
• Asking meaningful, emotionally open questions can reconnect partners and spark deeper connection.

Today's guest, Bernardo Mendez, can be found at:

Website: https://bernmendez.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bernmendez

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernmendez-relationshipexpert/

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

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

midlife dating, relationships, dating coach, intimacy, emotional state, nervous system, confidence, limiting beliefs, communication, vulnerability, dating myths, attraction, habits, mindset, self-awareness, connection, marriage, companionship, personal growth

In this episode of The UpShift, trauma specialist Tammy Cox joins host Angel Howard to explore the profound impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships and personal identity. Tammy details her unique subconscious reprogramming modality, which combines hypnosis, somatics, and inner child healing to locate and neutralize limiting beliefs planted between the ages of zero and five. The conversation delves into the physical manifestation of trauma, the necessity of moving beyond talk therapy to address "issues in the tissues," and the liberating process of stripping away survival-based coping mechanisms to reveal the authentic self. From discussing the shifting landscape of midlife crises to the power of emotional integration, this dialogue highlights how healing individual trauma creates a powerful ripple effect that can transform entire family lineages and future generations.

Takeaways

• Traumatic patterns from early childhood often remain dormant until triggered by adult relationship turmoil or midlife crises.
• Effective healing requires reaching the subconscious mind to identify "life commands" or limiting beliefs formed between ages zero and five.
• Traditional talk therapy often falls short because it fails to address the somatic or emotional tags stored within the physical body.
• Pain acts as a diagnostic tool and a gift: when felt without resistance for approximately 30 seconds, it can be dissolved and neutralized.
• Many adult personalities are actually a collection of coping mechanisms developed solely to survive the family of origin.
• Authenticity is achieved by chipping away the traits and behaviors adopted to please others or maintain safety.
• The heart center is a primary site for stored emotional blockage, requiring conscious expansion to integrate and release old pain.
• Healing is an energetic shift that impacts the individual as well as their ancestors and future generations through epigenetic changes.
• Self hate often stems from a lack of connection to the eternal being or the true self that exists beyond the physical meat suit.
• Recognizing that the body is a vehicle for experience rather than the totality of identity helps alleviate the fear of aging and death.

Today's guest, Tammy Cox, can be found at:

Website: https://reclaimurmarriage.com/breakthrough-session

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-cox-884b7a30/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tammyncox7

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cox.543

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tamhothair

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tcoxmarriagecoach

X: https://x.com/tamncox

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

Trauma Recovery, Subconscious Reprogramming, Somatic Healing, Inner Child, Hypnosis, Limiting Beliefs, Midlife Crisis, Relationships, Epigenetics, Emotional Intelligence, Self Love, Mental Health, Healing Journey, Coping Mechanisms, Identity, Personal Growth, Wellness, Psychology, Spirituality, Transformation

In this episode, entrepreneur Raven Alvarez, founder of Seraphine Spa, shares her profound journey from chronic burnout and "masculine" overachievement to a life of intentional balance. After years as a health coach who failed to heed her own advice, Raven transitioned into the intense world of business acquisitions, only to realize that financial success did not resolve her underlying physical and emotional exhaustion. A life-altering car accident served as a final wake-up call, leading her to integrate biohacking, blood labs, and holistic wellness into her business model. The conversation delves into the often-ignored connection between stress and early menopause, the importance of biochemical data in health, and how to reclaim presence in marriage and motherhood by shifting away from an unrelenting pursuit of external goals.

Takeaways

• Burnout can manifest emotionally, physically, and financially even for those in the wellness industry.
• Professional success and high earnings do not automatically resolve personal health imbalances or internal stress.
• Overachieving often stems from external pressures and can lead to being physically present but mentally absent for family.
• High-stress lifestyles and adrenal burnout can exacerbate or even trigger early onset menopause symptoms.
• Life often provides warning signs through the body that, if ignored, can lead to forced pauses like illness or accidents.
• Biohacking tools, such as exosomes and IV therapy, can significantly accelerate physical recovery and cellular healing.
• Integrating blood labs into a spa environment allows for a more comprehensive approach to beauty and wellness.
• Menopause should be treated based on individual biology and lab results rather than standardized age averages.
• Shifting from a "management head" to a "present heart" is essential for maintaining healthy long-term relationships.
• True balance requires pausing to ask what is needed for oneself before taking action or making business decisions.

Today's guest, Raven Alvarez, can be found at:

Website: https://www.seraphinespa.com/

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

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

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

Burnout, Entrepreneurship, Wellness, Menopause, Biohacking, Exosomes, Adrenal Fatigue, MedSpa, Holistic Health, Hormone Balance, Business Acquisitions, Spiritual Growth, Family Dynamics, Stress Management, Blood Labs, IV Therapy, Self-Care, Leadership, Women’s Health, Integration

In this conversation, Tiffiny Newton, a domestic violence survivor and author of Behind the Smile, shares her powerful story of recovery and renewal. She discusses how she fell into an abusive relationship despite having no prior exposure to domestic violence, highlighting the subtle red flags and manipulation tactics that often go unnoticed. Tiffiny defines complex concepts like gaslighting and narcissism through her own harrowing experiences, including instances of coercive control and isolation. The discussion also covers her courageous escape, the resources available for those in danger, and how she founded the nonprofit Ignite Her to provide safe exit strategies, education, and support for other women.

Takeaways

• Tiffiny Newton shares her personal journey from unsuspecting victim to empowered survivor.

• The conversation clarifies the definitions of gaslighting, narcissism, and coercive control.

• Abusers often mask their true nature and escalate violence when their control is threatened.

• Leaving an abusive relationship is dangerous and often requires multiple attempts.

• Documentation and gathering evidence can be vital for a victim's sanity and legal protection.

• Ignite Her is a nonprofit focused on safe exit strategies, self-defense, and education.

• Behind the Smile serves as a guide to help others recognize the signs of abuse.

• Resources like domesticshelters.org and BetterHelp are critical tools for those seeking escape.

• Physical separation and "no contact" orders are essential for safety during the exit process.

• Trusting one's intuition and recognizing anxiety as a warning sign is key to prevention.

Today's guest, Tiffany Newton, can be found online at:

Website: https://www.igniteher.org/

Website: https://tiffinynewton.com/

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

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

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

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: ⁠https://angelhoward.co/⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach⁠

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

Get Angel's book: ⁠https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi⁠

Keywords

domestic violence, survivor, gaslighting, narcissism, empowerment, support, red flags, escape plan, mental health, self-defense

In this episode of The Upshift, host Angel Howard speaks with Emily McSherry, founder and CEO of Advize, a career learning and exploration tool for students. They discuss the challenges students face in navigating career choices, the importance of networking, and how Advize aims to bridge the gap in career guidance. Emily shares insights on the business model of Advize, the significance of alumni engagement, and the emotional journey of entrepreneurship. The conversation emphasizes the need for better resources and support for students in their career exploration journey.

Takeaways

• Students often make career decisions with limited information.

• Networking is crucial, yet many students do not engage in it.

• Advize provides a framework to simplify career exploration.

• The platform offers free access to valuable career insights.

• Universities are key partners in Advize's business model.

• Alumni engagement enhances the learning experience for students.

• The higher education market is facing budget constraints.

• Hiring the wrong person is costly for companies.

• Entrepreneurship requires resilience and emotional strength.

• Celebrating small wins is essential for motivation.

Today's guest, Emily McSherry, can be found online at:

Website: http://www.advizehub.com/

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

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

career guidance, student success, Advize, higher education, alumni engagement, entrepreneurship, career exploration, job market, motivation, personal development

In this conversation, Laura Bratton shares her inspiring journey of overcoming vision loss and redefining courage. She emphasizes the importance of support systems, the tools of grit and gratitude, and the power of choice in navigating life's challenges. Laura encourages listeners to acknowledge their feelings, focus on the present, and trust that they are enough, regardless of their circumstances.

Takeaways

• Courage is acknowledging and validating our feelings.
• Support systems are crucial in navigating change.
• Grit involves believing in ourselves moment by moment.
• Gratitude can be practiced even in difficult times.
• We can choose our responses to life's challenges.
• Focusing on the present helps alleviate future fears.
• Daily actions of grit and gratitude create resilience.
• Resentment can be transformed into gratitude.
• We all have the power to relate to our situations differently.
• Trust that you are enough, even in change.

Today's guest, Laura Bratton, can be found online at:

Website: https://www.laurabratton.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-bratton-speaking/

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

Laura Bratton, courage, grit, gratitude, overcoming adversity, vision loss, support systems, resilience, personal growth, mindset

In this conversation, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller discusses the importance of empathy in leadership and its impact on business success. She shares her journey from being a professional musician to becoming an expert in empathetic leadership, emphasizing that empathy is a skill that can be learned and applied in various contexts, especially in the workplace. The discussion covers different types of empathy, the relationship between empathy and intuition, and how empathetic communication can enhance productivity and profitability in organizations. Dr. Melissa also highlights the significance of self-empathy and effective communication in fostering a positive workplace culture.

Takeaways

• Empathy can be learned and is essential for leadership.
• There are different types of empathy, including emotional and cognitive empathy.
• Self-empathy is crucial for understanding others.
• Empathy and judgment cannot coexist.
• Empathy can drive business success and employee retention.
• Effective communication is key to reducing workplace inefficiencies.
• Empathy allows for humane decision-making in business.
• A small shift in empathy can create significant change.
• Understanding others' perspectives enhances communication.
• Leaders must model empathetic behavior for their teams.

Today's guest, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller, can be found online at:

Website: https://eqviaempathy.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEmpathicLeader

Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-Robinson-Winemiller/author/B0F9BBWQ4F

Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at:

Website: https://angelhoward.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach

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

Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi

Keywords

empathy, leadership, communication, business, emotional intelligence, self-empathy, productivity, workplace culture, employee retention, interpersonal skills