Life = Choices; Choices = Life is about learning to replace external control psychology with radical responsibility and appreciation so you can make better choices to create the life you want to have. Kim Olver is a leading expert in Choice Theory™ psychology and will share what she has gleaned from the legendary work of Dr. William Glasser, as well as sharing her unique perspective based on over 30 years of study and research.
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Kim Olver Podcasts
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The Power of Mattering in Work, Life, and Education with Angela Maiers (Part 2)
21:23
21:23
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21:23In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, host Kim Olver continues her inspiring conversation with Angela Maiers, founder of the Choose to Matter movement. Picking up where Part 1 left off, Kim and Angela explore the deep connection between mattering and mental freedom—how both help us reclaim our worth and resilience when identit…
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The Power of Mattering with Angela Maiers: Why Every Human Needs to Be Seen, Valued, and Needed
23:10
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23:10In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver welcomes Angela Maiers, globally recognized educator, author, and founder of the Choose to Matter movement. Together, they explore the deep science and human truth behind mattering—the fundamental need to be seen, valued, and needed. Angela shares how the movement began unexpecte…
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Education, Empowerment, and the Power of Choice with Dr. Avisha Ford- part 2
13:36
13:36
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13:36Description: In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver continues her inspiring conversation with Dr. Evisha Ford, licensed clinical social worker, TEDx speaker, and founding executive director of I Can Dream Center, a therapeutic school for neurodiverse learners and their families. Dr. Ford shares how she balances compas…
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Transforming Education through Connection and Compassion - Part 1
15:17
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15:17In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver welcomes Dr. Evisha Ford, licensed clinical social worker, TEDx speaker, and founding director of the I Can Dream Center, a therapeutic school serving neurodiverse learners in Illinois. Dr. Ford, author of Benches in the Bathroom: Leading a Physically, Emotionally, and Socially S…
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Entrepreneurship with Mental Freedom - part 2
16:45
16:45
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16:45In this inspiring continuation, Kim Olver sits down with Joan Karstrom, tech entrepreneur and founder of J Code Studio, to explore how Mental Freedom® shapes both her business journey and personal growth. Joan shares how the principles of Mental Freedom helped her move from self-doubt and people-pleasing into clarity, resilience, and authentic conf…
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Entrepreneurship with Mental Freedom - part 1
18:12
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18:12In this inspiring episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver sits down with Joan Karstrom, a globally minded tech creative and founder of her own digital studio, to explore how Mental Freedom® helped her step confidently into entrepreneurship. From overcoming imposter syndrome in male-dominated tech spaces to redefining success o…
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Kim Olver continues her conversation with coach and educator Rachel Lynn McElroy to explore how Mental Freedom® principles show up in everyday parenting. Rachel shares real-life strategies for shifting kids’ self-talk into empowering language, using pain as a signal (not a solution), practicing gratitude through GLOW (Gifts, Lessons, Opportunities,…
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Season 8 of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life kicks off with a powerful conversation on parenting with mental freedom. Kim Olver is joined by coach and educator Rachel Lynn McElroy, founder of Align and Empower Coaching, to explore how parents can raise resilient, self-aware children by teaching them to understand and meet their own needs. Ra…
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Counseling Veterans: Trust, Trauma, and Choice Theory in Action
19:17
19:17
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19:17In Part 2 of her insightful conversation with Dr. Janet Morgan, Kim Olver dives deeper into the complexities of counseling military veterans and their families. Dr. Morgan shares powerful strategies for building trust with reluctant clients, navigating stigma, and working within the cultural nuances of military life. They explore the benefits and l…
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Military Mental Health, Trauma, and Counseling with Dr. Janet Morgan
20:20
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20:20In this powerful episode, Kim Olver speaks with military counselor and trauma specialist Dr. Janet Morgan about the unique mental health needs of veterans and active-duty service members. Drawing from her work with soldiers, Marines, first responders, and their families, Dr. Morgan explains why understanding military culture is essential for counse…
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Designing a Life You Love: Jane Newman on Mental Freedom®, Educational Leadership & Bold Choices
11:59
11:59
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11:59In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver welcomes back Australian educator, consultant, and speaker Jane Newman for the powerful second part of their conversation about transformation in education and life. With over 25 years of experience in teaching and leadership, Jane has seen firsthand the…
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Empowering Educators Through Self-Awareness: A Choice Theory Approach with Jane Newman (Part 1)
12:15
12:15
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12:15In this episode, Kim Olver is joined by Jane Newman, a passionate educator, leader, and founder of New Core Consulting in Australia. With over 25 years of experience in education and a decade in leadership, Jane has become a leading voice in applying Choice Theory® to help teachers and school leaders reconnect with their purpose, manage stress, and…
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Mastering the Art of Listening: Christine Miles on Empathy, Influence & The Listening Path (Pt 2)
19:08
19:08
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19:08In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver continues her enlightening conversation with Christine Miles, founder of The Listening Path, about the transformative power of listening to understand. Christine busts common myths around listening—like the idea that understanding means agreement—and explains why real listening i…
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The Listening Path: Unlocking the Hidden Power of Listening with Christine Miles (Pt 1)
18:40
18:40
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18:40Do you really know how to listen—or are you just waiting for your turn to speak? In this compelling episode of Life = Choices, Choices = Life, Kim Olver sits down with Christine Miles, award-winning author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen? and founder of The Listening Path, to explore why most of us were never actually taught how to listen—a…
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Self-Image & The Power of Visibility with Angela Acosta (Part 2)
13:51
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13:51In Part 2 of this inspiring conversation, Kim Olver sits down again with photographer, coach, and visibility advocate Angela Acosta to explore how women can reclaim self-worth, confidence, and empowerment—both personally and professionally. Angela shares how her photo sessions become transformational experiences, helping women release decades of se…
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Redefining Beauty: How Photography and Community Empower Women Over 40
13:08
13:08
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13:08In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver sits down with Angela Acosta—visionary entrepreneur, photographer, and founder of The Gal Project and Angela Atelier. Angela shares the deeply personal story behind her mission to help women over 40 reclaim visibility, confidence, and self-worth. Through her judgment-free photogr…
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Inclusive Parenting: Finding Strength on the Autism Journey
12:44
12:44
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12:44In this episode, Kim has a heartfelt continuation of her conversation with Ashley Patrick, a devoted mom and parenting educator, as we explore what it really means to build inclusive communities for families with neurodiverse children. Ashley shares the inspiration behind her mom-and-me craft events, designed to be calm, understanding, and welcomin…
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Parenting, Neurodiversity & the Power of Inclusion with Ashley Patrick (Part 1)
13:31
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13:31In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Life Equals Choices; Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver sits down with Ashley Patrick—devoted mom, fierce advocate, and full-time probation officer—to explore the beautiful complexity of parenting in a neurodiverse family. Ashley shares her real-life experience raising her daughter Gabby, who was diagnosed wit…
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Parenting Against the Grain: The Agile Approach with Bia Dimovski (Part 2)
17:14
17:14
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17:14In this episode, Kim Olver welcomes back author and Agile coach Bia Dimovski in a powerful continuation of last week's conversation to explore how she applies professional Agile principles to parenting in an intentional, iterative way. In Agile Parenting, Bia shares how her decade-long struggle with infertility shaped her reverence for parenting—an…
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Agile Parenting™: Intentional Connection in a Fast-Paced World
16:50
16:50
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16:50In this two-part episode, Kim welcomes author, coach, and parenting visionary Biljana "Bia" Dimovski to explore her unique approach to raising children in the modern age—what she calls Agile Parenting. Drawing from her own decade-long journey through infertility and her experience as an agile coach, Bia shares how she intentionally shaped her paren…
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Bridging the Divide: A Courageous Conversation Across the Aisle
25:59
25:59
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25:59In this powerful conclusion to her three-part series, Kim Olver continues her candid conversation with Republican guest Mike Corey, modeling what it looks like to engage in respectful political discourse amidst deep national division. Together, they explore the complex dynamics of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging), systemic inequal…
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Respectful Disagreement: A Democrat and Republican Talk Politics, Abortion, and Equity
24:16
24:16
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24:16In Part 2 of this candid conversation, Kim Olver reconnects with childhood acquaintance Mike Cory to explore the widening political divide in the U.S. — not to change each other's minds but to model what respectful political discourse can look like. From energy policy and healthcare to abortion, transgender athletes, and diversity in education, Kim…
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Can We Talk? Bridging Political Divides with Respect and Curiosity
23:21
23:21
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23:21In this episode, I am joined by a high school acquaintance and thoughtful conservative voice, Mike Cory, for an honest and respectful conversation about the political divide between Democrats and Republicans. Rather than aiming to debate or “win,” Mike and I model how to listen for understanding, even when we disagree. With topics ranging from gun …
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Bridging the Divide: A Real Conversation Across Political Lines
13:37
13:37
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13:37In this episode, I dive into one of the most important—and challenging—topics of our time: how to have respectful, meaningful conversations with people who hold different political beliefs. I share my personal reflections on the growing polarization in our country, the danger of misinformation, and the importance of listening with the intent to und…
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Unlocking Leadership Transformation with Choice Theory Psychology – Part 2
15:55
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15:55In this powerful conclusion to my conversation with Hussein Paymozd, we continue exploring his transformational leadership journey. Hussein shares how he evolved from a more authoritarian, top-down style to a leader committed to helping his team meet their basic psychological needs at work. He explains how his communication shifted when he adopted …
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Unlocking Leadership Transformation with Choice Theory Psychology
13:43
13:43
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13:43In this episode, I sit down with Hussein Paymozd to explore his leadership journey and the profound impact Choice Theory psychology had on his approach. Hussein shares how his early experiences with mentors influenced his leadership style and reveals the pivotal "aha moment" that inspired him to rethink his methods. He dives into the powerful shift…
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In this episode, Paul Cline and I continue our deep dive into Transformational Leadership. We explore how ongoing training empowers leaders to cultivate employees that grow beyond their starting point—and how investing in your staff can elevate your entire organization. If you’d like to learn more from Paul, visit advancedideas.com or whop.com/life…
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In this episode, I interview Paul Cline about progressive leadership—what it is, why it’s important, and the transformational mindset behind it. As you listen, evaluate for yourself whether you have what it takes to lead with true transformation. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to return next week for part 2 of our interview with Paul Cline…
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In this episode, Kim explores how to navigate the painful transition when an intimate relationship comes to an end. Whether it's due to divorce, distance, or a conscious decision, the loss can leave you wondering how to move forward. Kim breaks down Kübler-Ross's stages of grief—reminding us that the process is uniquely personal—and shares practica…
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Intimate Negotiations for the Win/Win/Win
24:28
24:28
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24:28Join me in this engaging episode as I explore the art of negotiating in intimate relationships. Unlike typical negotiations focused on individual gain, true success in your most personal interactions requires a collaborative mindset—one where both partners embrace, “I want to win, and I want you to win too.” Discover how shifting your perspective, …
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The Alone Stage of the Relationship Cycle
19:07
19:07
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19:07In this episode, we dive into the transformative "Alone Stage"—that often challenging period between relationships. Instead of rushing into a new romance, I explore how embracing solitude can help you heal, gain clarity, and learn invaluable lessons about what you truly want (and don't want) in love. Discover why this time of grieving and reflectio…
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Decision-Making with Values, Beliefs, and Purpose part 2
16:44
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16:44In this episode, I continue my fascinating conversation with Alyssa Utecht, a transformational life coach and intuitive guide on a mission to help others find their voice, reclaim their space, and step fully into the life they love. Alyssa believes that healing our relationships—with food, finances, family, and ourselves—creates the foundation for …
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Decision-Making with Values, Beliefs, and Purpose
19:47
19:47
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19:47In this episode, I sit down with Alyssa Utecht, a transformational life coach and intuitive guide who empowers others to discover their voice and reclaim their rightful place in the world. Alyssa believes that healing our relationships—whether with food, finances, family, or ourselves—enables us to show up authentically and unapologetically, openin…
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Uncovering Your "Why" with Dr. Gary Sanchez - part 2
29:02
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29:02In this episode, I wrap up my conversation with Dr. Gary Sanchez about his WHY.os system—an innovative tool to uncover your operating system: your why, what, and how. It has proven 100% accurate for me and for thousands of people Dr. Sanchez has worked with. In Part 2 of our interview, we dive into what might be even more powerful than your WHY alo…
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Uncovering Your ‘Why’ with Dr. Gary Sanchez
24:16
24:16
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24:16In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Gary Sanchez—better known as Dr. Why—to explore the nine core “WHYs” and the revolutionary WHY operating system (WHY.os). Dr. Sanchez boldly claims he can help anyone find their “WHY” in just five minutes, and he once did exactly that in Florida with every audience member over a remarkable 14-hour span! Beyond r…
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In this final segment of our conversation with Tony Lamar2, we explore the transformative work of Reentry+ and its role in helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society. Tony clarifies the distinction between justice-involved and justice-impacted individuals, explaining how Reentry+ provides critical support for both. We wrap u…
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In this episode, I have the opportunity to interview my colleague and friend, Tony Lamar2. Tony is the Visionary Architect for Reintegration and Mental Freedom® who has overcome systemic barriers to inspire others to reclaim their strength and potential. With years of lived experience and professional leadership, Tony has shaped criminal justice re…
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In this episode, I talk about the only thing everyone has to do and how everything else is done because we want to, rewriting the painful stories we've fabricated in our heads, and how to turn the painful events in our lives into GLOW, the acronym for gifts, lessons, opportunities, and wisdom. These are tools to use throughout life to minimize the …
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In this episode of Mental Freedom at Work, you will hear the part of the webinar I did for the Southland Development Authority about using Mental Freedom at Work. This part takes a deep dive into the Unconditional Trust Challenge and your responsibility once you gain the clarity resulting from trusting people for the right thing. You will find Part…
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In this episode, I talk about Mental Freedom, how it began and the first prinicple of Responsibility vs. Response-ability. I offered a webinar to the Southland Development Authority and this is the audio version of that broken up into three parts. This is part 1. If you like it, you can come back on Dec 12 and 19 for parts 2 and 3. If you want to l…
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Daman Harris, author of The Antiracist School Leader, a guide for school and organizational leaders to develop cultural competence and responsiveness through practical, everyday actions. We explore Daman's inspiration for the book and the strategies he suggests for leaders who face resistance when…
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Teacher Building Relationship, Compassion, and Accountability
25:54
25:54
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25:54In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Coach Carlos Johnson, author of Power Engage, a transformative book that guides teachers on how to teach like a coach, blending compassion with accountability for their students. We discussed Carlos' unique definition of engagement, which he views as a deeper, more committed process than mere invo…
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Creating Meant for More Classrooms with Angie Freese
32:28
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32:28In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Angie Freese, author of Meant for More: Real Talk about Classrooms Built on Dignity, Authenticity, and Connection. Angie’s passion for transforming education is undeniable, and her book offers a powerful roadmap for addressing educational inequity while fostering meaningful, relevant learning exp…
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In this episode, I sit down with Ari Gerzon-Kessler, an educator whose groundbreaking work focuses on uniting teachers and families to create stronger, more collaborative learning environments. Ari’s approach centers on one key principle: listening to understand. By letting go of judgment and getting curious about what families truly want from educ…
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Empathy, Equity, and Anti-racism in the Classroom
37:48
37:48
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37:48In this episode, I’m thrilled to interview the authors of Little Learners, Big Hearts: A Teacher's Guide to Nurturing Empathy and Equity in Early Childhood—Christine Mason, PhD, Orinthia Harris, PhD, Randy Ross, and Jill Flanders. These remarkable women are leaders in their fields and together contribute to the Center for Educational Improvement (C…
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In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing a very pregnant Genesis Amaris Kemp. Genesis was someone working in the gas industry in corporate America, when she realized the industry wasn't holding up to the principles of DEIB. Yes, she was a woman of color in a predominantly white men's world and she had a seat at the table but she was the…
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In this episode, I had the distinct pleasure to interview Dr. Susan Jackson, a close collaborator with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, founder of the flow concept. With a PhD in Sport and Exercise Psychology, Sue has extensive experience in the sports, performance, and health industries. In this conversation, we talk about what flow is and why it's an imp…
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In this episode, I had the joy of interviewing Kealah "Coach Kiki" Parkinson. Coach Kiki is a master at her craft of emotionally intelligent communications coaching. We talked about conquering one's fear, as Kealah went from being painfully shy to becoming a public speaker! We discussed developing your key mantra and your BMT Index, both trademarks…
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Alison Schmidt, PhD, BCC. Among other things, Alison is the CEO of unconvention™, and a graduate of the Academy of Choice's Board Certified Coaching program. I recently became aware of Alison's rebrand to unconvention and wanted to have her on the show to talk about it. Alison most definitely has …
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Bridging the Gap between Spirituality and Mental Health part 2
23:22
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23:22In this episode, I continue the conversation with Dr. Charles Dent about how mental health interventions can be tailored to resonate more deeply with Black men, considering the intersection of masculinity, cultural identity, and mental well-being. We discuss how to advocate for great access to culturally competent mental health services for Black m…
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