The Story Engine Podcast

The Story Engine Podcast where we teach you how to make marketing easier, more powerful and fun through storytelling. Each week we learn from top entrepreneurs, influencers and world-changers on how to share your story through content, copywriting, speaking and how to make your story your most powerful marketing tool.

When Your Business Stops Feeling Like Yours: How to Find Your Way Back to Alignment With Jennifer Hill 09/11/2026

When Your Business Stops Feeling Like Yours: How to Find Your Way Back to Alignment With Jennifer Hill What happens when the business you built to create freedom starts taking away your freedom? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Esther Wildenberg to unpack one of the biggest challenges I’ve experienced as an entrepreneur: losing alignment while chasing growth. Esther shares her definition of alignment—not as a way to make life easy, but as a way to get back to a place where your energy, purpose, relationships, leadership, and business are working together. We talk about the warning signs of “founder’s fatigue,” why entrepreneurs often blame employees, clients, or circumstances for problems that are actually reflections of what’s happening internally, and why slowing down can sometimes be the fastest way to solve a problem. Esther also gets incredibly personal about the period during COVID when her company needed to pivot, her wife was on bed rest, their son was born ten weeks early and spent six weeks in the NICU, and Esther found herself questioning her identity and direction. Her story helped me recognize just how powerful it can be to step outside the trenches instead of trying to solve everything from inside the problem. We dive into Esther’s unconventional three-day process of taking entrepreneurs completely out of their normal environment—including taking away their phones—to create the space for clarity, perspective, and realignment. We also explore the future of work in an AI-driven world and why Esther believes our ability to deeply connect with other human beings may be the most important skill we can develop. Highlights (02:49) – What alignment actually means and why it can make business growth feel effortless Esther explains alignment as the point where your purpose, passion, identity, heart, and environment are working together—and why that creates the conditions for the right people and opportunities to find you. (03:58) – Why alignment requires something most entrepreneurs hate: slowing down We explore why silence, solitude, reflection, and time away from the daily hustle are essential for recognizing whether your business, relationships, and decisions are actually moving in the right direction. (06:49) – The biggest challenge that comes with building a team Esther explains why employees will never care about your business exactly the way you do, and how entrepreneurs can let go of that expectation while still building teams that genuinely connect with the company’s mission. (08:50) – The interview questions Esther uses to uncover whether someone is truly aligned Esther shares her unusual approach to hiring, including why she asks whether a candidate’s previous employers would hire them again—and why an honest “no” can sometimes be a better answer than a polished “yes.” (09:23) – The warning signs of “founder’s fatigue” If you constantly complain about your employees, clients, finances, or marketing, Esther says it may be time to stop looking outward and ask what those problems are reflecting back to you. (12:17) – The hidden cost of the endless hustle and grind We unpack the “I don’t have enough time” mindset and how constantly prioritizing money and productivity can quietly damage your health, relationships, and overall quality of life. (12:55) – Why entrepreneurs may need to think in 90-day cycles now Esther explains why the speed of technological and cultural change means entrepreneurs need to develop their ability to pivot rather than relying solely on traditional three- or five-year plans. (14:48) – Esther’s radical three-day reset: leave your business and give her your phone Esther reveals the process she uses to help entrepreneurs get out of their own way—including removing them from their normal environment and taking their phones away for three full days. (17:34) – Why changing the people around you can change the problems you’re able to solve Esther explains the power of stepping into a room with different people, including other successful entrepreneurs, and getting perspectives from people who understand the challenges you're facing. (19:33) – How one hour of solitude can completely change your productivity Esther shares how starting her day with the beach, her dog, meditation, silence, and solitude changes her energy and creates more productivity and “inbound energy” throughout the rest of her day. (20:36) – Esther’s personal experience with founder’s fatigue during COVID Esther opens up about navigating a company pivot while her wife was on bed rest, her son was born ten weeks early, and their family spent six weeks in the NICU—all while being isolated from the people and environments that normally grounded her. (22:55) – The moment Esther realized she needed to get her life back After months of feeling lost, Esther began reading, hired a coach, and redirected her company toward community, connection, and helping people thrive rather than simply chasing sales and revenue. (24:31) – The question that changed how Esther saw her own impact A simple question at the end of a podcast made Esther realize she had been underestimating the impact of her work—and helped her understand that touching even one person deeply can be enough. (26:00) – What happens when you stop preparing and start trusting yourself Esther explains why she stopped over-preparing for podcasts and stages and began trusting what naturally comes through her in the moment. (31:52) – The story of founder’s fatigue, told through my own experience I share my own journey through COVID, the pressure of leading a team, becoming a father, and realizing that I couldn’t change the world around me—but I could change my response to it. (32:15) – Why vulnerability makes stories more powerful Esther explains why she intentionally shares the raw and vulnerable parts of her life and how personal stories can become tools that help other people move through their own challenges faster. (34:12) – The skill Esther believes will matter most in an AI-driven future As AI and technology transform the world of work, Esther argues that our ability to communicate, connect deeply, and build genuine human relationships may become more valuable—not less. (35:21) – Why community may be one of the best investments you can make in your future Esther closes with a powerful reminder: technology may change almost everything around us, but our human experience, relationships, and ability to connect remain uniquely ours. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42549660

What If the Biggest Problems in Your Business Are Actually a Sign You’re Out of Alignment With Esther Wildenberg 09/08/2026

What If the Biggest Problems in Your Business Are Actually a Sign You’re Out of Alignment With Esther Wildenberg I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about alignment—not just as a personal-growth concept, but as something that directly affects how we lead, build businesses, make decisions, and live our lives. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Esther Wildenberg, an executive coach, entrepreneur, consultant, and AI business owner who has spent more than 20 years helping leaders recognize when they’ve drifted out of alignment and find their way back. Esther describes alignment as the place where our purpose, passion, heart, identity, and actions are working together—and when they are, we create a kind of inbound energy that attracts the right people, opportunities, and growth. We get very practical about what happens when that alignment disappears. Esther calls it “founder’s fatigue”: when we become obsessed with everything that isn’t working, blame our employees, clients, finances, or circumstances, and convince ourselves we simply don’t have enough time. She explains why stepping away from the business can actually be one of the most productive things an entrepreneur can do, including her unconventional three-day process of removing clients from their normal environment—and even taking away their phones—to create enough space for clarity. We also dive into Esther’s own experience during the COVID pandemic, when a company pivot, a newborn son in the NICU, isolation, and an identity crisis forced her to completely rethink how she was living and leading. Ultimately, this conversation is about learning to step out of the trenches, reconnect with yourself, and create the kind of business and life that actually supports the person you want to become. Highlights (02:49) – Esther defines alignment and explains why getting your energy, purpose, passion, identity, and messaging into sync can dramatically change how your business grows. (03:58) – Why alignment is so difficult: the uncomfortable necessity of slowing down, creating silence and solitude, and actually listening to what your life is telling you. (06:49) – The biggest challenge of growing a team: why the people you hire will never care about your business exactly the way you do—and why entrepreneurs need to let go of that expectation. (08:24) – Why a candidate saying “no” to a past employer isn’t necessarily a red flag—and the question Esther asks to uncover whether someone has actually learned from their failures. (09:23) – “Founder’s fatigue”: the warning signs that you’re out of alignment, including constantly focusing on what’s broken and blaming everyone around you. (12:25) – The hidden cost of the hustle: how an obsession with productivity, money, and growth can quietly destroy your health, relationships, and sense of balance. (12:55) – Why entrepreneurs may need to stop thinking in three- to five-year plans and start developing the ability to pivot every 90 days to six months. (14:48) – Esther’s unconventional alignment reset: stepping completely out of your business for three days to gain enough distance to actually see the problem clearly. (15:09) – Why Esther takes away her clients’ phones—and how she believes 90% of their problems can begin to resolve once they’re removed from the environment creating the stress. (17:34) – The power of changing your environment and surrounding yourself with people who face similar challenges, including Esther’s experience in high-level masterminds. (19:30) – Why taking an hour for yourself in the morning can actually make you more productive, focused, and magnetic throughout the rest of your day. (20:36) – Esther’s raw story of founder’s fatigue during the COVID pandemic: a company pivot, a newborn son, six weeks in the NICU, isolation, and a complete crisis of identity. (23:17) – The turning point: how Esther hired a coach, changed the direction of her company, and shifted from focusing on sales and revenue to helping people thrive and connect. (24:31) – The podcast question that changed Esther’s perspective on her own impact—and helped her realize she didn’t need to reach thousands of people to make a meaningful difference. (26:00) – Why Esther stopped preparing for podcasts and stages and began trusting what she calls the “download” of what she needs to say in the moment. (31:54) – Esther explains why vulnerability is central to her work and how she uses her own painful experiences to help others move through similar challenges faster. (34:12) – Esther’s powerful prediction about the future of AI and technology—and why the ability to deeply connect with other human beings may become our most valuable skill. (35:21) – Her final challenge: build real communities, become an excellent communicator, and strengthen the human relationships that technology can never replace. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42549650

From “Behind Zero” to Playing a Bigger Game: How to Stop Letting Your Past Define Your Future with Markus Kaulius 09/04/2026

From “Behind Zero” to Playing a Bigger Game: How to Stop Letting Your Past Define Your Future with Markus Kaulius What if the very experiences you’ve been trying to leave behind are actually the things that qualify you to play a bigger game? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Markus Kaulius, a multi-exit entrepreneur, investor, author, and longtime student of personal development, to unpack the beliefs, habits, health, and faith that have shaped the man he is today. Markus grew up poor, in a broken family, and describes himself as starting “behind zero”—but instead of seeing that history as baggage, he learned to recognize it as the source of his work ethic, resilience, and ability to connect with people. We dig into why we so often write successful people off by assuming they were simply born that way, and how doing that protects us from having to challenge our own beliefs, identity, and assumptions. Then we go much deeper. Markus shares the system he uses to create the life he wants: identifying the habits that support that life, putting those systems in place, and trusting them long enough to work. We explore why health should come first if you want to give your best to your family and your work, why faith is about more than religion and can include having genuine faith in your own purpose, and what happened when Markus hit one of the lowest points of his entrepreneurial life during COVID. After his business dropped 70% in a single month, he found himself leading from fear and holding an all-hands meeting that made him realize he had become the leader he never wanted to be. What happened next completely changed the trajectory of his company. This conversation is ultimately about learning to see obstacles differently, moving from scarcity to abundance, and realizing that you may be much closer to playing the bigger game you were designed for than you think. Highlights (01:29) – From growing up poor and broken to becoming a multi-exit entrepreneur Markus opens up about growing up financially, emotionally, and spiritually disadvantaged—and why he now considers that difficult background one of the greatest advantages he was given. (06:41) – Why we write successful people off—and what that protects us from We unpack the psychology behind assuming someone’s success came easily, and how dismissing their story allows us to avoid challenging our own beliefs, identity, and potential. (09:41) – Finding the “younger version” of yourself who is still stuck in limiting beliefs Markus explains who he is really trying to reach when he speaks and coaches: the younger version of himself who believed he couldn’t succeed because of his circumstances. (12:45) – Why the right mentor isn’t necessarily the “best” mentor Markus shares a powerful perspective on personal development: if someone’s voice resonates with you and challenges you to take action, keep listening. If it doesn’t, find another voice. (15:45) – The habit system behind Markus’s success Instead of relying on discipline, Markus explains how he identifies the habits required to create the life he wants, puts systems in place, and then trusts the process instead of constantly looking for immediate results. (18:26) – Why your health might need to come before your business and family Markus challenges the idea that putting your health first is selfish and explains how starting his day with his body and energy actually allows him to show up better for his work, family, and relationships. (22:04) – Faith in yourself, faith in your purpose, and faith in something bigger We explore what happens when you genuinely believe you were put here for a bigger purpose—and how that belief can completely change the way you approach your daily decisions. (27:24) – The COVID moment that forced Markus to confront his own limiting beliefs Markus takes us inside one of the darkest periods of his entrepreneurial journey, when his business dropped 70% in a month and fear about the future began affecting the way he led his team. (29:53) – The all-hands meeting that made him realize he had become the worst version of himself as a leader He shares the uncomfortable moment when he saw fear in his employees’ faces and realized that his own panic and scarcity mindset were spreading throughout the organization. (32:13) – The obstacle isn’t necessarily blocking you—it may be preparing you Inspired by Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle Is the Way, Markus describes the breakthrough that helped him see his biggest challenges as the very things capable of making him stronger and more qualified. (33:23) – “I’m not a benchwarmer”: The mindset shift that changed everything During prayer and meditation, Markus had a realization that snapped him out of his victim mindset: he wasn’t meant to sit on the sidelines. He was meant to get back in the starting lineup. (34:34) – How one mindset shift created a new business opportunity within 24 hours Markus brought his executives together, changed the energy in the room, and asked a simple question: who needed warehouse space? Within 24 hours, the company had its first new contract—and momentum began building again. (37:59) – Rewriting the story of your own life I reflect Markus’s COVID experience back to him as a story, connecting the external crisis to the internal patterns he had carried since childhood and the moment he chose to recommit to his purpose. (43:35) – Why your life doesn’t have to be perfect for the system to work We talk about the reality that personal transformation isn’t something you “finish.” New obstacles will always appear, but having a framework for reconnecting with yourself, your purpose, your health, and your faith can help you navigate whatever comes next. (45:25) – The message Markus wants you to take action on today Markus closes with a challenge: if something in this conversation resonated with you, don’t dismiss it. Take action, become a better version of yourself tomorrow, and recognize that the world only gets one version of you. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42549625

I Did Everything Right—So Why Was I So Unhappy with Melissa Marina 09/01/2026

I Did Everything Right—So Why Was I So Unhappy with Melissa Marina What happens when you’ve built the successful career, hit the milestones, created the life everyone tells you that you should want—and yet, deep down, you know something is wrong? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Melissa Marina, a subconscious healer and intuitive channel for top entrepreneurs and founders, to explore what happens when high achievers finally stop compromising their deepest desires. Melissa shares the story of graduating with honors, winning entrepreneurship awards, landing a great corporate job, and seemingly doing everything “right”—while privately feeling miserable, coping with wine and cigarettes, and wondering why success wasn’t making her happy. We dive into the patterns that keep ambitious people stuck, including people-pleasing, limiting beliefs, unsupportive relationships, old identities, and the pressure to pursue goals that no longer feel meaningful. Melissa walks me through her Release, Reveal, Rise framework for clearing the patterns holding you back, reconnecting with your deeper purpose, and building a new identity and lifestyle around what you actually want. We also explore one of the most powerful themes of the conversation: sometimes what looks like a business or money problem is actually connected to your relationships, your identity, or the life you’ve been afraid to ask for. This episode is ultimately about something much bigger than making more money—it’s about creating a life where success, fulfillment, family, freedom, and purpose can actually coexist. Highlights (01:42) – Why stepping away from business during motherhood became a massive accelerator Melissa explains how maternity leave unexpectedly gave her more clarity, energy, and focus—and why removing the “shoulds” from her business actually created more growth and income. (04:13) – The hidden cost of building a life that looks successful but doesn’t fulfill you We explore how different seasons of life require different priorities and why performative work can quietly drain your energy. (04:58) – The high achievers who secretly feel like something is missing Melissa breaks down the types of founders and executives she works with—and the “wild, outrageous dreams” they often suppress because they have families, teams, mortgages, and responsibilities depending on them. (06:31) – How people-pleasing and relationships can become invisible ceilings We uncover how the desire to keep everyone happy can prevent ambitious people from pursuing their next level—and how a partner’s lack of alignment can become a powerful hidden block. (08:51) – The Release, Reveal, Rise framework Melissa introduces the three-stage process she uses to help clients identify recurring patterns, reconnect with their purpose, and create a new identity aligned with their future. (10:52) – What has to be cleared before you can actually find clarity We talk about releasing old career paths, business decisions, identities, and “masks” that may still be taking up space—even when they no longer belong in your life. (12:30) – Designing a life where your business supports your life—not the other way around Melissa explains how the “Reveal” stage helps clients design their ideal next chapter around family, travel, relationships, spirituality, wealth, fulfillment, and the rhythms that genuinely work for them. (14:04) – The identity shift that makes your future self possible Melissa explains the “Rise” phase and how raising your minimum standards, changing your self-concept, and creating new boundaries can help you stop reverting to the person you’ve outgrown. (15:54) – “I did everything right”—and still hated my life Melissa takes us back to her early twenties in Bermuda, when she had the grades, awards, career, relationship, and accomplishments—but realized she had forgotten herself along the way. (18:30) – The moment Melissa realized achievement wasn’t the answer She shares the profound realization that doing everything society expected of her had not created happiness—and that she had been following the formula for success while losing herself in the process. (19:47) – What changed when success stopped being about hustle Melissa describes her transition from a “hustle era” to a season of choosing, where she could focus on speaking, facilitating transformations, and the work that genuinely makes her lose track of time. (21:15) – Finding a partner who amplifies your ambitions instead of limiting them We explore how Melissa’s current relationship has allowed her to pursue international speaking, travel, and a bigger vision for her family without having to choose between motherhood and her purpose. (22:14) – The terrifying conversation that changed her relationship Melissa shares the defining moment when she had to tell her partner that traveling the world and speaking was part of the life she wanted—and why refusing to compromise on that desire ultimately deepened their relationship. (25:49) – The story behind the story: when success looks right but your life feels completely wrong I help Melissa turn her experience in Bermuda into a powerful story about dissatisfaction, playing small, discovering purpose, and ultimately creating a life aligned with what she truly wanted. (33:14) – The surprising connection between money problems and relationships We uncover why the “money block” or business ceiling clients think they’re facing can actually be connected to their relationships—and how recognizing that connection can create a major breakthrough. (34:00) – Discovering what your current life is really costing you Melissa explains her “Destiny Opportunity Audit” and how looking at missed opportunities, lost time, and potential income can reveal the real cost of remaining stuck. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42588540

When Your Business Is Thriving but Your Life Is Falling Apart With John Glon 08/28/2026

When Your Business Is Thriving but Your Life Is Falling Apart With John Glon I sat down with entrepreneur and business coach John Glon for a conversation about something I’ve experienced personally—and something I see happen to so many founders: the moment when hard work, grit, and determination that once built the business start becoming the very things that hold it back. John shared his journey from running a successful electrical manufacturing business to realizing that his deeper calling was helping leaders and their teams communicate, execute, and lead better. We explored what happens when founders become the person everyone depends on, why “I’ll just do it myself” becomes such a dangerous habit, and how growth can eventually demand an entirely different skill set than the one that created the business in the first place. I also shared a deeply personal story about a painful decision I made with a business partner, the consequences of stepping too far away from my own company, and the years of costly mistakes that eventually helped me develop a better way forward. At the heart of this conversation is a simple question: What if the solution to your business problems isn’t working harder, but learning how to lead differently? John and I unpack structure, vulnerability, curiosity, presence, accountability, and the importance of creating a business where everyone understands their role, knows the North Star, and has the freedom to do their best work. If you’re a founder or leader who has built something successful but feels like the business is demanding more and more of you, this conversation may help you see your situation—and your next move—in a completely different way. Highlights (01:32) – John explains the philosophy that guides how he shows up: love, care, and compassion, and how his entrepreneurial journey led him toward helping other leaders. (02:52) – Why John walked away from a seemingly reliable and profitable business path after realizing that success wasn’t filling his cup or allowing him to help enough people. (05:32) – We explore the idea of turning years of costly mistakes into a shortcut for other entrepreneurs, so they don’t have to spend years learning the same lessons the hard way. (05:59) – I share a powerful storytelling lesson: how saying “I worked so hard to figure this out, and now I have the shortcut for you” can transform painful experiences into authority. (08:23) – John reveals the three things he believes make his coaching different: structure, vulnerability and curiosity, and being fully present with the people he serves. (10:34) – Why vulnerability can unlock a completely different level of trust inside an organization—and why admitting that you don’t have all the answers can actually make you a stronger leader. (13:05) – The warning signs that a founder may be operating out of alignment: the business is growing too quickly, the wheels are falling off, or the owner desperately wants more time away from the business. (15:04) – We uncover a major trap for high achievers: you can’t outwork every problem in your business—and you definitely can’t outwork problems in your family. (17:29) – Why entrepreneurs often need someone outside themselves to help break habits, patterns, and “scar tissue” that keep them stuck in the same leadership cycle. (18:14) – John describes what becomes possible on the other side: genuine smiles, more engaged employees, higher-level work, more personal freedom, and a team that is finally rowing in the same direction. (20:02) – John tells the story of a painful decision to exit a business partnership—and how acting from shame and frustration created consequences that went far beyond the original conflict. (22:52) – A powerful lesson about the danger of using an “easy button” in business: stepping too far away can cause you to lose touch with the heart and soul of the culture you created. (24:36) – John discovers that his results-driven approach was alienating employees who had been drawn to the company because of its heart-centered culture. (26:18) – An emotional conversation with a key employee forces John to confront a difficult realization: he was no longer operating in alignment with his own values. (28:59) – John looks back on a period when his business finally felt joyful—employees were laughing, money was flowing, the team was connected, and he was able to create balance outside of work. (31:25) – I tell the story behind my own transformation, beginning with the question that stopped me in my tracks: “Why do we need to babysit you?” (34:00) – I reveal the process I developed through years of painful mistakes: creating structure, vulnerability, curiosity, and presence so leaders can bring their businesses and lives back into alignment. (35:53) – John reacts to hearing his story reflected back to him—and explains why experiencing a story can sometimes create more transformation than simply intellectualizing a problem. (37:53) – John shares why storytelling has become such a powerful leadership tool for him, and why the best speakers don’t always need slides or complicated frameworks to make an impact. (38:59) – John shares his closing thoughts and where you can connect with him and learn more about his work. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42549560

From Nurse to Entrepreneur: How To Build A Business To Put People Before the System With Ashley Yardley 08/25/2026

From Nurse to Entrepreneur: How To Build A Business To Put People Before the System With Ashley Yardley What happens when you’re a nurse who deeply cares about helping people, but you realize the healthcare system doesn’t always give you the freedom—or the options—to provide the kind of care you believe people deserve? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Ashley Yardley, founder of Advanced Mobile IV, to unpack the personal experiences that pushed her to build a completely different model of healthcare. We talk about how her background in home health and hospice led her to see the power of bringing care directly into people’s homes and communities, and how that eventually became a mobile IV franchise built around nurses, technology, flexibility, and personalized care. But Ashley’s story goes much deeper than building a healthcare business. She shares the devastating experience of watching her father-in-law improve dramatically during cancer treatment, only to see his treatment options change after an insurance decision—and the profound realization that followed. That experience helped Ashley understand that she wanted to create more options for patients while also giving nurses a way to build businesses, control their schedules, and have a greater impact on their communities. We also explore the software and systems behind her franchise, the vision of empowering nurses to become entrepreneurs, and the moment I reflected Ashley’s own story back to her in a way she had never heard before. This conversation is ultimately about turning painful experiences into purpose—and building something that gives people more freedom, more options, and more control over their own lives. Highlights (01:29) – Why Ashley believes healthcare works better when care happens in someone’s natural environment—and how that insight became “nurses on wheels.” (03:37) – The surprising reason so many people seek IV therapy, from dehydration and travel to athletes and unexpected moments when they need support quickly. (05:26) – What makes someone an ideal Advanced Mobile IV franchisee—and why Ashley looks for people who want to invest in their health, future, and community. (06:26) – Why being a great nurse doesn’t automatically make someone a great business owner, and the business mindset Ashley believes franchisees need. (08:20) – How Ashley built proprietary software and an EMR to help her franchisees respond quickly, manage nurses, track inventory, and scale. (09:20) – The business model behind mobile IV: rapid service, recurring subscriptions, community relationships, and the potential for additional revenue streams. (10:59) – The transformation Ashley is most proud of: giving nurses more freedom while helping them build careers that allow them to spend more time with their families. (12:42) – The moment Ashley realized the traditional hospital environment was no longer the right fit—and why she wanted to fill the gaps she had seen firsthand. (13:43) – The painful experience that changed Ashley’s perspective on healthcare, insurance, and the role that financial decisions can play in patient care. (15:42) – What happened when Ashley’s father-in-law’s cancer treatment was working, but an insurance decision made the treatment financially inaccessible. (17:51) – Ashley’s philosophy on going back to the basics of health and giving the body the foundation it needs to fight and recover. (19:12) – The powerful story of Ashley’s son after brain surgery—and the moment he asked to receive an IV because he knew he needed one. (19:36) – Ashley’s vision for the future: empowering nurses to build their own clientele, choose their schedules, and get paid what they deserve. (20:47) – How painful experiences can become lessons, and why Ashley believes something that feels like the worst moment may ultimately be protecting or teaching you. (26:44) – I retell Ashley’s story back to her—and she hears the deeper meaning of her journey in a way she never had before. (27:39) – Why hearing your own story from someone else can be more empowering than telling it yourself—and how a new perspective can help us move faster. (28:25) – Ashley’s closing message: trust yourself, seek second and third opinions, and remember that you may have more options than you realize. (29:30) – Where to learn more about Ashley, Advanced Mobile IV, and opportunities for nurses to get involved. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/42513460

Your Brain Health Problems May Be Starting Decades Earlier Than You Think With Eric Collett 08/21/2026

What If Thinking About Death Is the Key to Living Your Best Life With Karen Salmansohn 08/18/2026

Your Story Is Not Separate From You — How Writing a Book Unlocks a Whole New Level of Leadership with Steven Heumann 08/14/2026

She Shattered Her Leg, Got Evicted, and Found Freedom 08/11/2026

Wartime CEO: Disruption, Delayed Gratification, and Doing the Opposite with Chandler Bolt 08/07/2026

The Anti-Financial Advisor And What Wealth Actually Is With Chris Miles 08/04/2026

People only think other people die with Andrew Quebbemann 07/31/2026

The Success Trap: Why High Achievers Feel Stuck (And How to Lead with More Humanity) With Justin Ricklefs 07/28/2026

Why Your Diagnosis Isn't the Whole Story with Dr. Scott Richmond 07/24/2026

From Cancer Survivor to Medical Detective: The Hidden Causes of Chronic Illness Most Doctors Miss With Dr. Jill Carnahan 07/21/2026

The Pattern You Don't Know You're In With Nancy Bisbikos 07/17/2026

The Magic You’re Missing: Why Your Greatest Value Might Be Hiding in Plain Sight With Chris Van Loan 07/14/2026

From Reinvention to Recognition: The Visibility Strategy You Can’t Buy With Lauren Cobello 07/07/2026

How I Learned to Regulate My Emotions When It Matters Most with Rubina Chadha 06/30/2026

How I Learned to Regulate My Emotions When It Matters Most with Rubina Chadha In this episode, I sit down with Rubina Chadha, founder of Inner Design, to explore what it really means to regulate your nervous system in high-stakes moments. We go far beyond surface-level “mindset” advice and dive into the real reason so many high performers—entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives—feel overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck despite their success. Rubina shares how we’ve been conditioned to live in our heads, and why reconnecting with our bodies is the key to clarity, resilience, and sustainable performance. Through a powerful, real-life story, we uncover what emotional regulation actually looks like in practice—not in theory. From navigating major life transitions to making better decisions under pressure, this conversation reveals simple, practical tools you can use immediately. If you’ve ever felt like overthinking, stress, or emotional overwhelm is holding you back, this episode will show you a new way forward—one rooted in presence, awareness, and real inner alignment. Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction to Rubina Chadha and the power of nervous system regulation 01:17 – What creativity and mindfulness really mean (and why everyone is creative) 03:19 – Why high performers default to overthinking—and where it stops working 05:05 – The hidden cost of stress: health, relationships, and burnout 07:27 – Why we’re not taught how to handle stress—and what’s missing 11:22 – Rubina’s unique approach: creative expression + breathwork as entry points 12:59 – Simple ways to release stress (that most adults have forgotten) 15:17 – What becomes possible when you learn to regulate your emotions 17:59 – A real-life story: receiving life-changing news in the kitchen 19:40 – The emotional conflict of letting go and supporting growth 22:46 – Finding peace, presence, and gratitude on the other side 24:32 – A powerful live storytelling transformation of Rubina’s journey 28:07 – The impact of being seen—and the importance of community /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40631200

How to Stand Out When Everyone Sounds the Same With Marc Rust 06/23/2026

How to Stand Out When Everyone Sounds the Same With Marc Rust In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Mark Rust, founder of Consequently Creative, to unpack what it really takes to stand out in a world flooded with noise, sameness, and safe marketing. Mark shares how his background as a musician shaped his approach to branding—and why the magic isn’t in logos or color palettes, but in the bold, often uncomfortable choices that make people pay attention. From redefining branding as the central operating system of your business to crafting messages that connect beyond words, this conversation challenges everything you thought you knew about visibility. We also dive into the role of audacity in business growth—what it looks like to break the rules, create unforgettable moments, and engineer opportunities instead of waiting for luck. Mark shares powerful stories (including one unforgettable outreach strategy involving a coffin and a competitor’s microphone) that demonstrate how small, creative shifts can open massive doors. If you’ve ever felt stuck blending in, overcomplicating your message, or struggling to articulate what makes you different, this episode will give you a new lens—and the courage—to do something radically different. Episode Highlights 01:15 – How music shaped Mark’s creative thinking and storytelling approach 03:13 – The hidden downside of chasing perfection and “rockstar” success 04:36 – Why marketing magic comes from combining multiple elements—not just design 06:47 – The real key to standing out: leading with why, not what 08:31 – The biggest mistake businesses make: vague, meaningless messaging 10:23 – Why people connect emotionally—not logically—to brands 12:17 – Branding as the central operating system of your business 13:52 – What makes Consequently Creative different in a crowded industry 15:51 – The power of audacity: doing what others won’t 17:50 – Kyle’s story of bold action and betting on himself 20:05 – Mark’s unforgettable moment asking a university president for help 21:40 – The “coffin campaign”: a bold outreach strategy that landed a dream client 24:51 – Why conventional marketing no longer works in an oversaturated world 26:04 – How to position your message so people actually lean in 28:14 – Small shifts in clarity that create massive business impact 29:14 – A powerful story that captures Mark’s philosophy in action /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40631000

Your Voice Can Change the Room: How to Be Seen, Heard, and Paid Through Podcast Guesting with Carolee Moore 06/16/2026

Your Voice Can Change the Room: How to Be Seen, Heard, and Paid Through Podcast Guesting with Carolee Moore In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Carolee Moore, an expert storyteller who helps corporate leaders and subject matter experts find their voice, get on the right podcasts, and turn their visibility into real business growth. What stood out to me most is how Carolee doesn’t just focus on booking interviews—she helps people reconnect with their authentic voice after years of operating inside corporate expectations. We explore how storytelling, when done right, becomes the bridge between deep expertise and real influence. Carolee shares her journey from growing up in Jamaica surrounded by storytelling, to navigating corporate America, to building (and walking away from) a successful marketing agency that no longer aligned with her. We also dive into how podcast guesting can fast-track credibility in B2B spaces, why so many experts struggle with visibility despite their experience, and how finding your voice can literally “change the vote” in the rooms that matter most. If you’ve ever felt unseen, under-recognized, or stuck playing small—this conversation will show you a new path forward. 00:49 – From Jamaica to the U.S.: The Roots of a Storyteller 02:09 – Corporate Life, Structure, and Suppressed Creativity 03:30 – Building (and Closing) a Multi-Six-Figure Agency 04:24 – The Pivot: From Marketing to Podcast Guesting 05:31 – The Types of Experts She Works With 07:41 – Why Podcasting Works for High-Level Experts 09:00 – Turning Stories Into Credibility and Sales 11:14 – The Hidden Struggles of High-Achieving Experts 12:46 – Watching Less Experienced People Win (and Why It Hurts) 14:08 – The Real Transformation: Finding Your Authentic Voice 16:46 – Integrating Visibility With Sales and Business Strategy 17:23 – The Boardroom Moment That Changed Everything 19:00 – Speaking Up and Changing the Vote 20:58 – Learning to Own Your Voice 21:39 – Underpricing and Positioning Lessons as an Agency Owner 22:46 – A Major Win: Earning a Year’s Salary in One Day 23:30 – Learning to Celebrate and Step Away 24:44 – The Story Reflection: From Silence to Impact /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40630890

The Real Power of Personal Branding Beyond Logos and Colors with Jonathan Greye 06/09/2026

The Real Power of Personal Branding Beyond Logos and Colors with Jonathan Greye In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Jonathan Greye from personalbrand.com to explore what branding really means—and why most people are getting it completely wrong. We go far beyond logos, fonts, and color palettes to uncover the deeper “engine of the story” that drives everything: your identity, your lived experiences, and the essence of who you are. Jonathan shares how true branding is about mirror work—reflecting your full story back to you so clearly that it transforms not just your messaging, but your offers, your team alignment, and the way your entire business operates. What struck me most is how this process doesn’t just create a brand—it creates freedom. When your brand is rooted in your true essence, you stop rebuilding your website every year, stop chasing trends, and start building something timeless that evolves with you. Jonathan also opens up about the pivotal moment that pushed him to leave agency life behind and build a business where creativity, alignment, and impact finally came together. If you’ve ever felt boxed in, scattered, or disconnected from your own brand, this conversation will completely reframe how you see your business. 01:09 – The “Engine of the Story” Explained Jonathan shares how storytelling across copy, visuals, and design creates a multi-sensory brand experience. 03:42 – What a Brand Manifesto Actually Does We break down how a manifesto draws a line in the sand, attracts the right people, and repels the wrong ones. 05:09 – Where Most Branding Agencies Get It Wrong Why focusing only on content or niching can limit growth—and how true brand DNA creates long-term flexibility. 07:42 – The Costly Trap of Constant Rebranding I share the common cycle of rebuilding websites and chasing trends—and why it never works long term. 08:38 – Mirror Work: Seeing Yourself Clearly for the First Time Jonathan defines mirror work and explains how embracing your full story becomes your true differentiation. 10:25 – How Your Brand Shapes Your Offers and Business Model We explore how understanding your essence influences not just messaging—but how you structure your entire business. 12:04 – The “Frankenstein Brand” Problem Jonathan describes how many entrepreneurs piece together scattered strategies that never fully align. 15:06 – Branding That Creates Cultural Impact How great brands go beyond marketing and begin to shape movements and communities. 17:08 – The Breaking Point: Creative Director Burnout Jonathan shares the moment he realized his dream job wasn’t what he thought it would be. 18:12 – The Dali Museum Project That Changed Everything A powerful story of creative rejection that led to a complete shift in his career path. 20:02 – The First Aligned Client Experience The moment Jonathan realized he was finally doing the work he was meant to do. 21:39 – “I Finally Felt Seen” How a client’s reaction validated his new approach to branding and set the foundation for his business. 26:08 – From Rejection to Reinvention (Story Breakdown) I reflect Jonathan’s journey back to him, connecting the dots into a powerful, transformational narrative. 28:58 – Where to Learn More How to connect with Jonathan and explore working with his team at personalbrand.com. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40630785

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Building High-Ticket Programs That Actually Work with Christie Ruffino 06/02/2026

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Building High-Ticket Programs That Actually Work with Christie Ruffino What if the reason your coaching business feels exhausting… is because it’s built the wrong way? In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Christie Ruffino to unpack how coaches, speakers, and authors can escape the chaos of low-ticket offers, endless content creation, and “shiny object syndrome” — and instead build scalable, high-ticket programs that deliver real results. Christie shares her proven framework for turning your expertise into a profitable, freedom-based business using strategic offers, risk-reversal guarantees, and books as powerful lead-generation tools (not just credibility pieces). You’ll also hear her raw journey from overworked single mom grinding through 10+ hour days… to creating a business that supports her lifestyle, her family, and her freedom. If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start building something sustainable, this episode will show you how. In This Episode 01:27 – Christie’s Background & Mission From publishing expert to helping coaches leverage books for impact and income. 02:21 – Why Most Books Don’t Make Money The myth of “build it and they will come” — and why a book alone won’t grow your business. 03:45 – The Right Way to Use a Book as a Lead Generator How to position your book as a funnel that attracts ideal high-ticket clients. 05:06 – What High-Ticket Clients Actually Want Why they don’t care about reading your book — and what they do want instead. 06:40 – Building a Real High-Ticket Offer The biggest mistake coaches make (starting too small) and how to position yourself as an expert faster. 08:36 – The Power of Guarantees in Coaching Programs How risk-reversal builds trust, improves conversions, and ensures real client results. 10:02 – Screening vs Selling Why the best high-ticket models focus on qualifying clients instead of convincing them. 11:28 – The “Busy & Broke” Entrepreneur Trap Content overload, shiny objects, and why the ascension model leads to burnout. 13:27 – Christie’s Unique Framework Risk-reversal offers, done-for-you components, and structured group coaching systems. 16:19 – Done-For-You vs Done-With-You Support How to design offers that maximize results without draining your time. 17:26 – Christie’s Breaking Point Working 10–12 hour days as a single mom, overwhelmed and stuck in the hustle cycle. 20:08 – The Emotional Cost of Busyness The hidden guilt and pressure of trying to provide while feeling absent at home. 22:17 – The Turning Point: High-Ticket Transformation Moving from chaos to clarity — and finally building a business that works. 24:32 – Freedom, Travel, and Lifestyle by Design Choosing how to work, where to work, and creating space for life again. 25:15 – Christie’s Story, Reframed A powerful narrative transformation illustrating her full journey and impact. 30:19 – Where to Learn More & Final Thoughts Christie shares resources and reflects on the power of storytelling in business. /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40630635

Lead Yourself First: How Your Childhood Shapes Your Leadership (and How to Rewrite It) with Dr. Kevin Mays 05/26/2026

Lead Yourself First: How Your Childhood Shapes Your Leadership (and How to Rewrite It) with Dr. Kevin Mays What if the way you lead today was shaped long before your first job, team, or business? In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Mays to explore how early childhood roles—whether you were the oldest, youngest, or an only child—quietly influence your leadership style, decision-making, and even the types of people you attract into your life and work. Dr. Kevin breaks down how these deeply ingrained patterns can either limit or amplify your impact—and more importantly, how to break free from them. This conversation is a powerful invitation to lead yourself first, so you can show up more authentically for your team, your clients, and your mission. Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how Kevin is shaping his message and story for an upcoming book—revealing what it really takes to step into your full leadership potential. Highlights: (00:25) – Kevin’s origin story: getting kicked out of college and discovering the power of choosing what you want vs. what you should (01:40) – From psychologist to leadership expert: helping high achievers become “inspired executives” (02:45) – The breaking point: realizing a traditional career path wasn’t the right fit after a near-dangerous flying experience (03:20) – A radical decision: selling everything, hitting the road, and designing life on his own terms (04:10) – “My age doubled overnight”: the moment Kevin stepped into adulthood, leadership, and responsibility (05:00) – Leading through crisis: helping a bank grow during the 2006–2008 financial collapse using conscious leadership (07:18) – The deeper mission: mastering consciousness and applying ancient wisdom (like teachings of the Buddha) to modern leadership (09:10) – What’s really leading you: the “invisible patterns” formed in early childhood that drive your behavior (10:00) – The neuroscience of identity: how your brain wires your beliefs, habits, and self-concept before age 3 (10:45) – The “8-lane highway” effect: why most people repeat the same patterns for life without realizing it (11:30) – Birth order explained: how being oldest, youngest, or an only child shapes your leadership style (12:30) – The trap of success: how the traits that made you successful become your biggest limitation (13:20) – The turning point: awareness as the gateway to breaking unconscious patterns (14:44) – Why entrepreneurs struggle to scale: when “doing everything yourself” becomes the bottleneck (16:47) – Leadership ripple effect: how your internal patterns create chaos—or clarity—throughout your entire organization (17:30) – “I work with a bunch of idiots”: the hard truth about leadership and taking responsibility for your team (18:39) – The real work: shifting from mastering the external world to mastering your internal one (19:48) – Kyle’s breakthrough: how being an only child shaped conflict avoidance and over-responsibility (21:31) – The realization: what got you here won’t get you to the next level (23:06) – The process: building awareness as a mental discipline to interrupt and rewrite old patterns (25:27) – A painful lesson: staying too long with a misaligned client and the toll it took on Kevin’s life (26:00) – The cost of misalignment: anxiety, stress, and how it impacts your family and well-being (27:27) – The breaking point: finally letting go of what wasn’t working (28:17) – The shift: what happens when you create space by removing what drains you (29:00) – Alignment in action: attracting better clients, better opportunities, and more fulfilling work (29:45) – Case study: a high-level executive transforms confidence and lands a better-aligned role (30:20) – Organizational transformation: how one leader’s internal shift improved communication, culture, and profitability (31:00) – A powerful story: Kyle reflects Kevin’s journey into a compelling narrative of transformation (35:58) – Final insight: you are always writing your story—whether you realize it or not (36:18) – Where to go next: Dr. Kevin shares his book launch and how to begin upgrading your leadership /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40630455

From Outsider to Architect: Why I Built LOOTBOX for Gamers Who Deserve Better With Shannon Graham 05/19/2026

From Outsider to Architect: Why I Built LOOTBOX for Gamers Who Deserve Better With Shannon Graham In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Graham—someone who’s spent over two decades helping visionary leaders bring bold ideas to life—and who is now stepping into his own vision with LOOTBOX, a performance nutrition brand designed specifically for gamers. What struck me most in this conversation is how Shannon’s entire journey—from not fitting into traditional masterminds to embracing imagination and creativity—has led him to build something that truly serves a community often overlooked and misunderstood. We explore the massive gap in the gaming industry between the demand for high-level performance and the low-quality, sugar-loaded products marketed to gamers. Shannon shares how LOOTBOX is different—not just in what it delivers nutritionally, but in how it creates community, elevates identity, and integrates cutting-edge experiences like AI companions. This is a conversation about creativity, courage, and what happens when you stop trying to fit in—and start building something better. Highlights: 00:58 – Shannon shares his transition from 22 years in leadership development to launching LOOTBOX 02:18 – Why imagination and creativity are the most underrated drivers of real-world impact 04:03 – Inside the “Hall of Heroes” and how childhood nostalgia fuels adult innovation 06:02 – How working on “moonshot” ideas shaped Shannon’s ability to think beyond existing models 08:30 – The inspiration (and limitations) behind fast-scaling brands—and how LOOTBOX stands apart 10:31 – The real problem with gamer nutrition: sugar, crashes, and lack of respect 12:50 – Why sustainable performance and recovery are the missing pieces in gaming culture 15:16 – The massive gap in the market—and why gamers are ready for something better 17:05 – Introducing Nova: the AI avatar companion changing the user experience 20:23 – How Shannon is blending gaming culture with /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40631240

The Hidden Root of Hair Loss: Metabolism, Emotions, and a New Path to Healing with Dr. Julie Olson 05/12/2026

The Hidden Root of Hair Loss: Metabolism, Emotions, and a New Path to Healing with Dr. Julie Olson Hair loss is often treated as a surface-level issue—but what if the real cause runs much deeper? In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Julie Olson to uncover the often-overlooked metabolic factors behind hair loss, along with the profound emotional and psychological toll it can take on women. This conversation goes beyond quick fixes, shining a light on the internal imbalances that may be at the root of the problem. Dr. Julie shares her holistic approach to restoring hair health by addressing the body as an interconnected system—offering a new sense of hope for women who feel frustrated, unseen, or stuck. If you or someone you know has struggled with hair loss and hasn’t found real answers, this episode opens the door to a more compassionate, root-cause-driven path forward. Highlights: (00:24) – Julie introduces her work: a triple board-certified nutritionist specializing in root-cause solutions for female hair loss (01:03) – Kyle shares his experience with “biological anxiety” and how metabolic issues can manifest in unexpected ways (02:14) – Why hair loss isn’t genetic destiny: the role of epigenetics and how lifestyle choices influence gene expression (03:52) – The powerful symbolism of hair and why it plays such a deep role in identity—especially for women (05:00) – “Hair is the crown of glory”: the emotional weight of hair loss and why it’s so devastating (06:10) – The psychological impact: how hair loss affects confidence, relationships, and how women show up in the world (06:40) – The stress-hair loss cycle explained: how chronic stress triggers inflammation and pushes hair into the shedding phase (07:58) – The surprising role of the scalp microbiome—and why hair requires more nutrients than you might think (08:57) – The vicious cycle: how emotional stress about hair loss can actually make the condition worse (10:00) – Why common solutions fail: extensions, transplants, and treatments that ignore the root cause (10:50) – Julie’s personal story begins: losing her hair in clumps at age 38 and being dismissed by doctors (11:27) – “Medication is a bandage”: why most approaches miss the deeper metabolic issues (13:30) – The problem with modern medicine: being dismissed, unheard, and pushed toward lifelong medication (16:25) – The 5 root causes of hair loss revealed: hormonal, digestive, inflammatory, toxins, and stress (17:03) – Hidden toxins explained: how plastics, cosmetics, and everyday products disrupt hormones and health (19:49) – A bigger issue emerges: why modern life is creating more metabolic problems than ever before (21:23) – Lessons from a “Blue Zone”: how lifestyle, food, and simplicity impact long-term health (23:16) – The turning point: Julie leaves her dream job after her mother’s cancer diagnosis—and her own health begins to decline (24:49) – Hiding in the office: the emotional reality of hair loss—shame, isolation, and desperation for answers (25:11) – “I was humiliated”: the breaking point and frustration of getting no real solutions from doctors (26:32) – The healing journey begins: uncovering hidden infections, food sensitivities, and internal imbalances (28:43) – The slow victory: regaining her hair—and more importantly, control over her health and life (29:43) – Starting her own practice: a moment of empowerment and stepping into her true calling (31:00) – Kyle reflects Julie’s story back: a powerful narrative of transformation, resilience, and purpose (36:18) – A deeper layer: Julie’s mother survives cancer, reinforcing the power of metabolic health and lifestyle changes (37:13) – A heartbreaking insight: why losing hair can feel worse than chemotherapy for some women (37:53) – The mission: giving women hope worldwide and addressing hair loss at its true root (38:31) – Next steps: Julie shares how to identify your root cause with her diagnostic quiz /episode/index/show/storyengine/id/40630360

Reclaiming Your Vision and Leading on Your Own Terms with Lia Dunlap 05/05/2026

Rebuilding Trust and Reducing Attrition in Modern Organizations with Jim Carlough 04/28/2026

Turning Taxed Wealth Into Lasting Passive Income with Brett Swarts 04/21/2026

The Story Engine Podcast

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