Life = Choices; Choices = Life

Understanding DEIB Today: Trans Rights, Belonging, and Bridging Differences (Part 2)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her conversation with storyteller, author, and activist Paul Iarrabino about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and what it looks like in today’s world.

Together, they explore the current realities facing the trans community, including healthcare access, shifting policies, and the lived experience of navigating uncertainty. Paul shares powerful insights from his work amplifying queer voices through storytelling, including the importance of preserving history, creating space for dialogue, and fostering belonging across differences.

The conversation also highlights:

The impact of policy changes on everyday lives
Why storytelling is essential for understanding marginalized experiences
How curiosity can bridge even deeply different perspectives
The importance of integrating DEIB into everything—not treating it as “separate.”

This episode is not about having all the answers; it’s about being willing to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversation.

If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, you can find it here.

DEIB, Belonging, and What's at Stake: A Conversation with Parul Iarrobino (Part 1)

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0500

What does belonging really mean—and why does it matter now more than ever?

In this episode of Life = Choices; Choices = Life, Kim Olver continues her conversation with storyteller, author, and activist Paul Iarrobino about DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) and the current cultural climate surrounding it.

Together, they explore the difference between inclusion and true belonging—and why simply “doing the right things” isn’t enough if people don’t feel genuinely welcomed and valued.

Paul shares powerful real-world examples from his work with LGBTQ+ communities, schools, and organizations, highlighting:

Why belonging is often overlooked in DEIB conversations
How performative inclusion differs from genuine connection
The impact of current anti-DEI sentiment on schools and communities
What’s happening for LGBTQ+ youth, especially in today’s climate
Where hope still exists, and why community action matters

This episode also addresses the broader implications of policy shifts, cultural division, and the importance of showing up, not just when something affects us personally, but because it’s the right thing to do.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation.

Parenting Without Losing Yourself: When Responsibility Turns Into Resentment

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life = Choices; Choices = Life, Kim Olver explores the hidden tension many parents experience—but rarely talk about: the moment when responsibility turns into resentment.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying everything, nagging, or becoming more impatient and critical than you want to be, you’re not alone. This episode unpacks how over-responsibility can quietly lead to frustration, disconnection, and burnout.

Through the lens of Mental Freedom®, Kim shares how to recognize what is truly yours to carry—and what isn’t.

You’ll learn:

Why parenting can start to feel overwhelming—even when you love your children
How over-functioning leads to resentment and disconnection
The difference between responsibility and control
How to step back without stepping away
Why allowing natural consequences can support growth

Featuring a powerful real-life story about setting boundaries with her son, Kim illustrates how small shifts can create meaningful change for both you and your child.

This episode is for parents who care deeply, carry a lot, and are ready to find a more sustainable way forward.

Mental Freedom Moment: Parenting Adult Children Without Controlling Them

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

What do you do when your adult children become parents—and you don’t agree with how they’re raising their kids?

In this Mental Freedom® Moment, Kim Olver explores one of the most emotional transitions in parenting: letting go of control while staying connected.

If you’ve ever found yourself wanting to give advice, step in, or question your adult child’s decisions, you’re not alone. This episode looks at the deeper fears underneath those reactions—including the fear that doing things differently might mean you did something wrong.

Through the lens of Mental Freedom®, Kim shares how to shift from control to connection, respect your adult child’s role as a parent, and maintain strong relationships with both your children and grandchildren.

You’ll learn:

Why parenting adult children requires a different mindset
How unsolicited advice can impact your relationship
The difference between safety concerns and simple differences
How to replace control with curiosity and trust

Reflection Question:

Where might I be trying to guide in a way that feels like control—and what would it look like to shift that into curiosity and respect?

This episode is for parents, grandparents, and anyone navigating relationships with adult children.

Co-Parenting After Divorce: How to Put Children First

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Divorce can be one of the most difficult transitions a family faces, but it does not have to damage a child’s future. In this episode of Life = Choices; Choices = Life, Kim Olver continues her conversation with attorney Christopher Anderson about how parents can navigate divorce while protecting their children’s emotional well-being. Don't forget to check out Part 1.

Christopher shares practical guidance on healthy co-parenting, including why parents should focus less on controlling routines in the other household and more on supporting the child’s relationship with both parents. He explains how parenting plans are meant to guide families—not control them—and why flexibility, trust, and cooperation are often more beneficial for children than rigid adherence to legal documents.

The conversation also explores how parents can avoid common mistakes during divorce, such as questioning children about the other household, competing for affection, or unintentionally placing emotional burdens on their kids. Instead, Christopher emphasizes the importance of creating a hopeful vision for the future and helping children feel secure, loved, and supported during family transitions.

You’ll also hear about Christopher’s innovative approach to family law at New Leaf Family, which focuses on future-oriented problem-solving rather than conflict-driven litigation.

If you’re navigating divorce, co-parenting, or parenting plans, this episode offers thoughtful insight on how to help children remain resilient and emotionally secure while families adjust to new structures.

Learn more about Christopher Anderson and New Leaf Family at https://www.newleaf.family.

How to Help Children Through Divorce Without Putting Them in the Middle

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices; Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver speaks with family attorney Christopher Anderson about how parents can protect their children’s well-being during divorce.

Divorce is often one of the most difficult transitions a family can face, especially when children are involved. Christopher shares a powerful perspective on how parents can move beyond conflict and focus instead on creating a secure and hopeful future for their children.

Rather than dwelling on past grievances or ongoing disagreements, Christopher explains why a future-focused approach helps children feel safe, supported, and emotionally stable during a major family transition.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

• Why focusing on the future helps children feel secure during divorce

• How parents can avoid putting children in the middle of conflict

• The importance of presenting decisions as unified parental choices

• How honesty and emotional openness can support children’s adjustment

• Ways to maintain stability and positive co-parenting after divorce

Christopher Anderson is the co-founder of New Leaf Family, a law practice dedicated to transforming the way family law supports families during divorce by helping parents move from conflict toward constructive, future-focused solutions.

If you are navigating divorce or supporting someone who is, this episode offers thoughtful guidance on how to prioritize children’s emotional safety and resilience through one of life’s most challenging transitions.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. Be sure to return next week for Part 2 as Kim and Christopher continue discussing co-parenting and helping children thrive after divorce.

How to Love Yourself — Single or in a Relationship

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver explores how to love yourself whether you are single or in a relationship. Many people tie their self-worth to their relationship status, believing they are more valuable when chosen and less worthy when alone. But true self-worth is not determined by partnership.

Kim discusses how we subtly abandon ourselves inside relationships—minimizing our Needs, shrinking our voice, and sacrificing boundaries to maintain connection. She also addresses the deeper fear of being alone and how that fear can drive unhealthy relationship choices.

You’ll learn:

How to build self-worth outside of relationship status
Why self-abandonment erodes intimacy
How to stop outsourcing your happiness to a partner
Ways to heal the fear of being alone
What loving yourself actually looks like—single or partnered

Whether you are dating, married, divorced, or navigating a season of singleness, this conversation will help you build emotional strength, healthy boundaries, and deeper self-respect.

Because loving yourself is not a slogan. It is a daily practice.

Listen now to learn how to stay aligned with yourself—no matter who stands beside you.

For more on loving yourself, check out Kim's book, Choosing Me Now.

The Quiet Ways Couples Hurt Each Other (And How to Repair Emotional Distance)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her conversation about couples by exploring the quiet ways we unintentionally hurt our relationships — and what we can do to repair and strengthen connection.

Most relationships don’t fall apart because of dramatic betrayals. They erode in subtle ways: defensiveness instead of empathy, withholding small acts of kindness, quiet scorekeeping, control disguised as concern, and unspoken unmet needs. Over time, these small moments create emotional distance — inch by inch.

Drawing from decades of counseling experience and the principles behind Choice Theory, Kim unpacks:

Why explaining can feel like dismissing
How small daily kindnesses protect intimacy
The hidden fear beneath control
How keeping score damages emotional safety
Why naming your needs builds connection instead of criticism

If you’ve ever thought, “We don’t fight — we just feel distant,” this episode will help you understand why distance happens and how to close it.

If you’d like to explore these ideas more deeply, Kim’s book Secrets of Happy Couples: Loving Yourself, Your Partner, and Your Life is currently available while remaining copies last. Originally published in 2011, this edition reflects the language norms of its time. A thoughtfully revised edition is planned for the future. You can learn more or order a copy here.

Because love rarely collapses from one catastrophic event — it fades through small, unaddressed moments. And it rebuilds the same way.

Dating After Breakup: Rebuilding Confidence and Finding Love Again

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her powerful conversation with Dr. Corey SeeMiller about heartbreak recovery, dating with intention, and how to build healthier romantic relationships after loss. If you missed Part 1, you can listen here: https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/corey-seemiller/

Dr. Corey SeeMiller shares how her own unexpected breakup led her to explore healing, self-worth, and personal growth in a deeper way. Together, Kim and Corey discuss what it really takes to move through heartbreak without becoming bitter, how to rebuild confidence after a relationship ends, and why self-awareness is essential before stepping back into the dating world.

You’ll hear insights about emotional resilience, recognizing unhealthy patterns, attracting aligned partners, and creating intentional relationships rather than reactive ones. Corey also explains how affirmations, mindset work, and personal responsibility can support long-term relationship success.

If you’ve experienced a breakup, are navigating dating after heartbreak, or want to create a more conscious romantic relationship, this conversation offers both practical tools and emotional encouragement.

To learn more about Dr. Corey SeeMiller’s work in relationships, dating, and healing after heartbreak, visit her website at https://www.coreyseemiller.com.

Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this conversation here:

https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/corey-seemiller/

Apple Podcast description

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her conversation with Dr. Corey SeeMiller about healing after heartbreak, rebuilding confidence, and dating with intention. Together, they explore how to move forward after a breakup without becoming bitter, how to recognize unhealthy relationship patterns, and what it really takes to attract a healthy, aligned partner.

If you’ve experienced heartbreak, are navigating dating again, or want to create more intentional romantic relationships, this episode offers practical insight and emotional encouragement.

Listen to Part 1 here: https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/corey-seemiller/

Learn more about Dr. Corey SeeMiller at https://www.coreyseemiller.com

Why Relationships Get Stuck—and How to Rebuild Connection Before It’s Too Late

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver kicks off the February focus on couples with an insightful conversation with Dr. Corey SeeMiller about how relationships quietly get stuck—and what couples can do before disconnection becomes irreversible. Drawing on both her academic expertise and lived experience, Corey introduces powerful metaphors like “watering the garden” and “narrowing the tunnel” to explain how small, neglected moments of connection can slowly erode even strong relationships.

Together, Kim and Corey explore why healthy relationships don’t fall apart overnight, how orange lines and red lines serve as early warning signs, and why intentional communication and daily acts of care matter far more than grand gestures. This episode also examines how unmet needs, avoidance of difficult conversations, and loss of curiosity can lead couples into patterns that feel impossible to escape.

If you’ve ever wondered why relationships lose their spark, how to intervene before resentment sets in, or what it really means to sustain intimacy over time, this conversation offers practical wisdom you can apply immediately. Whether you’re dating, partnered, or reflecting on past relationships, this episode provides a grounded, compassionate framework for strengthening connection and preventing emotional drift.

To learn more about Dr. Corey SeeMiller and her work in relationships, dating, and healing after heartbreak, visit her website, where she shares resources as a generational expert, leadership educator, and relationship coach. You can also explore her book, The Soulmate Strategy, and listen to her podcast, Rock that Relationship!, for deeper conversations about love, loss, and personal growth.

How Boudoir Photography Builds Confidence, Self-Love, and Body Acceptance for Women

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, host Kim Olver continues her empowering conversation with Liz Hansen, owner and photographer at Chicago Boudoir Photography, about how boudoir photography can transform a woman’s confidence, self-worth, and body image.

If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, you can listen here https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/liz-hansen/.

Liz talks about what a boudoir session is really like—why it’s important to block out a half day just for you, how the experience often becomes a day of self-care and self-acceptance, and why many women come out of their sessions feeling more confident, proud, and liberated than they ever expected. She explains how seeing your body through a new lens—literally and metaphorically—can shift your self-perception and remind you of your inherent value, worth, and beauty.

Kim and Liz also explore common hesitations women have before a shoot and why those fears often melt away once they see the final images. Liz shares deeply affirming insights about how boudoir can be part of a broader journey of self-love—not because the camera “fixes” anything, but because it reveals something the woman has always carried inside.

Liz also talks about her recently published book, A Year of Body Confidence: 365 Days of Affirmations and Actions for Women, a daily resource for grounding self-love and confidence-building habits (link below).

Whether you’re curious about a boudoir experience or you’re navigating issues with body image, confidence, or self-worth, this conversation offers compassionate perspective and encouragement to see yourself as stronger, more worthy, and more beautiful than you might have believed.

Learn more and connect with Liz at her website: https://chicago-boudoir.com

Check out Liz’s book: A Year of Body Confidence: 365 Days of Affirmations and Actions for Women

Self-Discovery, Confidence, and Body Image: How Boudoir Photography Empowers Women

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, host Kim Olver continues her conversation on self-discovery with Liz Hansen, owner of Chicago Boudoir Photography. Liz shares her powerful journey from education to photography and explains how boudoir photography can become a deeply transformative experience for women at every stage of life.

This candid conversation explores confidence, body image, self-worth, and the courage it takes to step outside your comfort zone. Liz describes how thousands of women have walked into her studio feeling unsure and walked out feeling empowered—not because their bodies changed, but because their relationship with themselves did. Together, Kim and Liz discuss why worth is not earned through roles, achievements, or appearance, but exists simply because you are alive.

You’ll hear how boudoir photography challenges long-standing cultural beliefs about women’s bodies, beauty standards, and who confidence is “for.” Liz explains what actually happens during a boudoir session, how trust and safety are built, and why seeing yourself—unfiltered and unedited—can be a profound act of self-acceptance. This episode also addresses common reasons women choose boudoir experiences, from milestones and new beginnings to healing after loss, illness, or divorce.

If you’re navigating self-discovery, rebuilding confidence, or learning to honor your inherent worth, this episode offers a refreshing and empowering perspective. It’s a reminder that your body is not something to fix, but a vessel that has carried your story—and deserves to be celebrated.

Be sure to tune in next week for Part Two of this inspiring conversation. You can purchase Liz's book here: A Year of Body Confidence: 365 Days of Positive Affirmations and Empowering Actions for Women: Hansen, Liz: 9798245553634: Amazon.com: Books.

Why Women’s Health, Wealth, and Self-Worth Are Inseparable

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver continues a powerful conversation on self-discovery, women’s well-being, and living with intention with her guest, Nancy Griffin. Together, they explore why women so often put themselves last—and how prioritizing mental health, physical well-being, and self-worth is not selfish, but essential.

Nancy, founder of Women, Worth, and Wellness, shares how her work with women over the past three decades has revealed a deep connection between health, wealth, and personal fulfillment. Drawing from her mother’s legacy as a trailblazing woman entrepreneur, Nancy reflects on what it means to steward both financial resources and personal energy with integrity and purpose.

This conversation dives into practical ways women can retrain their focus away from chronic negativity, strengthen their mental resilience, and default toward gratitude and possibility—even in challenging times. Kim and Nancy also discuss why women often carry disproportionate responsibility for family wellness, how charitable giving and legacy planning enhance self-worth, and why caring for your own mental and physical health expands your capacity to care for others.

If you’re a woman who feels successful on the outside but depleted on the inside, this episode offers grounded insight, encouragement, and a reminder that your life, health, and joy matter.

Learn more about Nancy’s work and her inspiring 7000 Jars of Jam story at https://womenworthwellness.com/7000-jars-of-jam.

Living in the Age of Integrity: Redefining Success, Health, and Legacy for Women

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver continues her conversation on self-discovery, purpose, and integrity with Nancy Griffin—founder of Women, Worth, and Wellness and a lifelong advocate for women’s health, wealth, and self-worth.

Nancy shares her powerful perspective on what it means to live in the “Age of Integrity”—a stage of life where success is no longer measured solely by personal achievement, but by contribution, impact, and legacy. Together, Kim and Nancy explore how accomplished women can continue growing, leading, and making a difference without burning out or stepping away from work they love.

You’ll also hear the deeply moving story behind “7000 Jars of Jam,” a legacy inspired by Nancy’s mother—a trailblazing woman entrepreneur whose quiet courage shaped generations. This conversation highlights why health and wealth are inseparable, how intuition guides wise decision-making, and why women especially benefit from claiming ownership of both their well-being and their financial lives.

This episode is a meaningful reflection for women who are asking:

What’s next for me?
How do I stay engaged, energized, and purposeful as I age?
How do I live in alignment with my values, gifts, and integrity?

Whether you’re navigating a new season of life, redefining success, or seeking inspiration to lead with courage and compassion, this episode offers grounded wisdom and real-life insight.

Learn more about Nancy Griffin and the story behind 7000 Jars of Jam at:

https://womenworthwellness.com/7000-jars-of-jam Living in the Age of Integrity: Redefining Success, Health, and Legacy for Women

What I Learned by Living My Own Work: 10 Mental Freedom® Lessons

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver opens the new year with a deeply reflective and practical solo conversation on self-discovery, responsibility, and what it truly means to live Mental Freedom®—not as a concept, but as a daily practice.

Rather than sharing dozens of surface-level insights, Kim slows down to explore 10 deeply integrated lessons from 2025 that she is carrying into 2026. These lessons are grounded in Choice Theory, emotional maturity, and lived experience, addressing themes such as personal responsibility, unmet needs, conflict, boundaries, power struggles, emotional regulation, and authentic connection.

Throughout the episode, Kim examines how blame quietly erodes freedom, how unmet needs often sit beneath recurring conflict, and why the stories we tell ourselves can either imprison us or restore our sense of choice. She also explores the difference between compromise and negotiation in relationships, the role of boundaries in protecting connection, and why peace does not require other people to change.

This episode is especially meaningful for listeners who are interested in personal growth, relationships, coaching, emotional responsibility, and Mental Freedom® principles, as well as anyone entering a new year wanting to live more consciously rather than chasing perfection.

Listeners are invited to reflect honestly on where they may be waiting for others to change, where they have been giving away responsibility, and which of these lessons they are ready to practice more consistently in 2026.

This is not an episode about self-improvement through willpower—it’s about self-leadership through choice, clarity, and returning again and again to what you already know to be true.

Outsourcing Responsibility: The Coaching Pattern That Keeps Clients Stuck

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this solo episode, Kim Olver explores one of the most common—and most damaging—coaching mistakes she sees in her work with individuals, leaders, and helping professionals: clients outsourcing responsibility for their own lives while simultaneously overtaking responsibility for others.

Drawing from decades of experience as a coach, counselor, and creator of the Mental Freedom® process, Kim unpacks how this pattern shows up in coaching conversations, relationships, workplaces, and families. She explains why this dynamic feels familiar and even virtuous, yet quietly erodes empowerment, clarity, and sustainable change.

You’ll learn how outsourcing responsibility keeps people stuck in blame, frustration, and dependency, while overtaking responsibility leads to burnout, resentment, and misplaced control. Kim also shares how this pattern can subtly appear in coaching relationships—and why even well-intentioned coaches can unintentionally reinforce it.

This episode offers practical insight for coaches, leaders, and anyone interested in personal growth, responsibility, and authentic empowerment. If you want to stop carrying what isn’t yours, reclaim your own agency, and create healthier boundaries in your coaching and relationships, this conversation will give you a powerful new lens for change.

If today’s conversation resonated with you—especially the distinction between supporting others and taking responsibility for them—you may be interested in the work I do training ethical, responsibility-centered coaches.

You can learn more about the Board Certified Coach (BCC)–approved coaching programs through the Academy of Choice, where I train coaches to work from responsibility, autonomy, and internal control.

For those who want to apply these principles directly in their work with individuals, couples, or groups, Mental Freedom® Certification offers a practical, experience-based pathway grounded in Choice Theory and personal responsibility.

And if you’re listening simply as someone who wants to stop giving away your power—or carrying responsibility that isn’t yours—the Mental Freedom® Experience is a powerful place to begin that work for yourself.

The Question I Ask Every Coaching Client—and Why It Changes Everything

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver shares the single, powerful question she asks every coaching client—and why it reveals more than any intake form ever could. Drawing on decades of experience as a coach, counselor, and creator of the Mental Freedom® process, Kim explores how this question quickly uncovers whether a client is taking responsibility for their life or outsourcing it to circumstances, relationships, or other people.

This episode dives into one of the most common coaching challenges Kim sees: clients who want change but unknowingly give away their power by waiting for others to behave differently. Kim explains how responsibility, response-ability, and choice are foundational to effective coaching and meaningful personal growth. Through real-world examples and practical insight, she shows how this question helps clients move out of victimizing language, reclaim agency, and begin creating the peace, clarity, and fulfillment they’re seeking.

Whether you’re a coach, therapist, leader, or someone interested in personal development, this episode offers a clear lens for understanding responsibility, boundaries, and the difference between change that feels good and change that actually lasts.

The 4 Psychological Blocks That Hold Entrepreneurs Back — and How to Break Them

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her insightful conversation with internationally recognized business mentor Katrena Friel, creator of the transformational Done For You program and founder of Becoming the Expert. Known as “the business mentor to the awakened,” Katrena has spent more than 25 years helping entrepreneurs position themselves as true experts—clarifying their message, building powerful brands, and creating seven distinct income streams that future-proof their businesses.

Picking up from Part 1, Kim and Katrena dive deeper into the psychological blocks that stop brilliant people—especially women—from launching or scaling their businesses. Katrena breaks down the four biggest mindset barriers: confidence, assertiveness, people-pleasing, and perfectionism, and explains why perfectionism is “arrogance in disguise.” She also reveals how intuition, not endless crowdsourcing, should guide branding and decision-making.

Katrena offers an inside look at what entrepreneurs receive in her first 90 days—from a complete business plan and personal brand to a book, TED Talk, and signature program designed to create real revenue. She also shares her approach to future-proofing a business by focusing on one core expertise, repurposing content strategically, and avoiding common pitfalls like starting a podcast too early or building too many products at once.

If you're a coach, speaker, service-based entrepreneur, or expert-in-the-making, this episode will challenge your assumptions, sharpen your mindset, and show you what’s truly possible when you position, package, and price yourself as the expert you already are.

Learn more or book a complimentary discovery session with Katrena at: https://BecomingtheExpert.com.au

From HR to Coach: Navigating Fear, Purpose, and Authentic Leadership

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim Olver continues her powerful conversation with coach and HR leader Josh Brumley, exploring what it really takes to launch a successful coaching practice after years in an internal coaching role. Josh speaks openly about the emotional and mental challenges of starting a business, reframing fear as excitement, and navigating the mindset hurdles that often hold new coaches back.

Together, Kim and Josh dig into why early-career and mid-career managers often struggle, how coaching can transform the transition into leadership, and why authenticity—not scripts or corporate expectations—is the key to becoming a trusted, effective supervisor. Josh also shares how his background in non-profit, higher education, and government work uniquely shapes his coaching niche, and why coaching skills naturally deepen relationships far beyond the workplace.

If you’re a new coach, a manager seeking support, or someone considering launching your own practice, this thoughtful and honest conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and a realistic look at the coaching journey. Josh also shares how listeners can connect with him on LinkedIn as he builds the next phase of his work.

You can reach out to Josh on his LinkedIn Profile.

Building an Internal Coaching Program: Lessons from HR Leader Josh Brumley

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kim Olver sits down with coach and human resources leader Josh Brumley for an honest, insightful conversation about building an internal coaching program, navigating the challenging shift from consultant to coach, and helping emerging supervisors lead with authenticity.

Josh, a graduate of the Academy of Choice’s 120-hour coaching program, shares how he used professional development funds to earn his certification and design a coaching initiative inside a university setting. He discusses the surprising challenges of transitioning from HR consultant to coach, the boundaries required to avoid slipping back into “just tell me what to do” consulting, and the delicate balance of honoring client goals while managing organizational expectations.

Kim and Josh explore the pitfalls of internal coaching—especially how quickly a program can be misunderstood as disciplinary—and why framing coaching as a growth investment is crucial. Josh also reflects on the difference between managerial responsibility and coaching support, the risks of being asked to “fix” employees, and how leaders often avoid the difficult conversations that are rightfully theirs to navigate.

Josh also highlights what he gained from the Academy of Choice program—from in-person instruction to mentorship hours—and how that foundation strengthened his coaching practice and leadership development approach.

This thoughtful conversation offers valuable insight for HR professionals, aspiring coaches, and leaders who want to bring coaching into their workplace while preserving integrity, clarity, and client-centered practice.

Clarify Your Field of Excellence: Leadership Lessons with Katrena Friel

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kim Olver sits down with internationally recognized business mentor Katrena Friel to explore powerful truths about leadership, entrepreneurship, and discovering your unique field of excellence. Known as the “business mentor to the awakened,” Katrena has spent more than 25 years helping entrepreneurs and leaders transform hidden dreams into tangible, income-generating results.

Katrena shares the inspiring origin story behind her signature Done For You program — a 90-day, high-touch process that builds a client’s entire personal brand ecosystem, including their book, website, TEDx message, and high-ticket signature program. Drawing from decades of experience, she explains how she reverse-engineered her own success to create a repeatable pathway to mastery across seven streams of income.

Kim and Katrena also dive into the psychological side of leadership, discussing four common internal barriers that often hold women back: confidence struggles, lack of assertiveness, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. Katrena reveals how she identifies a client’s true field of excellence through her deep-dive discovery sessions — and why clarity is the most valuable asset an entrepreneur can have.

This episode is rich with wisdom, strategy, and empowering insight for anyone ready to elevate their leadership and build a business that reflects their authentic brilliance.

The 5 Leadership Skills Every Educator (and Leader) Needs with Dr. Don Parker

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, host Kim Olver continues her inspiring conversation with Dr. Don Parker, nationally acclaimed educator, keynote speaker, and author of Building Bridges and Be the Driving Force. Together, they explore the heart of effective leadership—vision, trust, communication, and integrity—and how these qualities transform not only schools but every kind of organization.

Dr. Parker shares his top five leadership skills for building lasting trust, leading change without resistance, and inspiring teams even through funding challenges and uncertainty. Drawing from decades in education and leadership development, he offers practical strategies for handling turnover, strengthening relationships, and staying focused on purpose.

Kim and Don also discuss the importance of hope-driven leadership, how to become a “hope warrior,” and the power of GLOW—seeing the Gifts, Lessons, Opportunities, and Wisdom in life’s most difficult moments.

Tune in to learn how to lead with empathy, integrity, and courage—whether you’re guiding a school, a team, or your own personal growth.

Connect with Dr. Don Parker: drdonparker.com | LinkedIn

Catch Part 1 of this conversation: life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/don-parker-leadership

Leading with Radical Empathy: Dr. Don Parker on Trust, Connection & Transformation

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Life Equals Choices; Choices Equal Life, host Kim Olver welcomes back Dr. Don Parker, nationally acclaimed keynote speaker, educator, and author of Building Bridges and Be the Driving Force. Known for transforming schools through relational trust and trauma-informed leadership, Dr. Parker shares his insights on radical empathy leadership—a transformative approach that moves beyond authority to genuine human connection.

Dr. Parker discusses his inspiring TEDx Talk on empathy in leadership, the evolution from top-down management to trust-based collaboration, and how educators and leaders alike can create cultures of belonging where everyone matters. Together, Kim and Dr. Parker explore how listening, trust, and compassion can change the way we lead—whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or communities.

Tune in to learn how to lead with empathy, rediscover your “why,” and turn burnout into belief.

Connect with Dr. Don Parker to bring radical empathy leadership to your school or organization at drdonparker.com or on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/drdonparker.

You Matter, Period: Angela Maiers on Building Classrooms and Brands People Believe In

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kim Olver concludes a three-part conversation with Angela Maiers, globally recognized educator, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Choose to Matter. Kim and Angela dig into the science of mattering—why securing the heart comes before earning the mind or the business, and how that truth transforms classrooms, brands, and communities. Angela explains “heart share,” the danger of treating students and customers like compliant “users,” and why the data that matters most asks a simple question: Do people feel seen, valued, and needed here? Together they explore practical ways schools can center student voice and interest (oceanography, dinosaurs—whatever the child’s “jam” is), how organizations build advocates rather than customers, and why ignoring mattering fuels disengagement, attrition, and even anti-mattering.

Learn more about Angela at https://angelamaiers.com/ and find her on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok @Angela Maiers.

Missed the earlier parts? Listen to:

Part 1 → https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/angela-maiers/

Part 2 → https://life-choices.captivate.fm/episode/angela-maiers-pt2/

Tip: In your internet search bar, just search “you matter Angela” to find Angela's work.

The Power of Mattering in Work, Life, and Education with Angela Maiers (Part 2)

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 identity feels tied to roles, titles, or external validation.

Angela shares her personal story of losing her sense of purpose during COVID when her work came to a halt, and Kim reveals how that same period led to the creation of her Mental Freedom® framework. Together they unpack how the human mind can either trap or liberate us, why knowing we are needed is essential to thriving, and how simple daily actions—seeing, listening, and caring—can restore dignity and connection in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Angela also introduces her newest book, M Is for Mattering: A Pathway to Meaning, Purpose and Joy, a heartfelt guide that reminds us all: You matter. Period.

Learn more about Angela Maiers and the Choose to Matter movement at https://angelamaiers.com/. You can also get her book there. View the YouTube clip Angela mentioned from Akila and the Bee and find Part 1 of this conversation here.

The Power of Mattering with Angela Maiers: Why Every Human Needs to Be Seen, Valued, and Needed

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 unexpectedly after her TED Talk and how it evolved into a worldwide call to action, led by young people who want to make a difference in their communities. Drawing on neuroscience and real-world research, she explains that the drive to matter is biologically programmed—essential for both survival and flourishing—and describes the transformative effects of mattering on education, leadership, and well-being.

Through powerful stories and research insights, Kim and Angela discuss the difference between self-worth and self-esteem, why feeling needed fuels purpose and resilience, and how children intuitively understand what many adults have forgotten: that everyone has unique value to offer. This conversation challenges listeners to reclaim their innate worth and to create spaces where others feel they belong, contribute, and truly matter.

Learn more about Angela’s work, her book, and the Choose to Matter movement at https://angelamaiers.com/.

Education, Empowerment, and the Power of Choice with Dr. Evisha Ford- part 2

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Description: 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 compassion with high expectations in education and leadership—creating environments where both students and staff can thrive. She and Kim discuss the difference between self-care as an occasional treat and self-care as a daily practice, exploring how routines, health maintenance, and mindfulness keep leaders grounded and resilient.

They also examine how empowered choices—both large and small—shape our professional and personal lives. From trauma-compassionate leadership to sustainable self-care systems, Dr. Ford offers practical wisdom for educators, leaders, and anyone striving to make meaningful impact without burning out.

For more information or to connect with Dr. Ford, visit DrEvisha.com.

Transforming Education through Connection and Compassion - Part 1

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 Safe School Culture, shares her insights on compassionate leadership and the importance of creating supportive environments for both educators and students.

Kim and Dr. Ford explore how compassionate leadership is not about lowering expectations, but about pairing high standards with high levels of support. They discuss the evolving needs of special education, the funding challenges that districts face, and the importance of preparing all teachers to support diverse learners. Dr. Ford also explains why professional development and trauma-informed practices are essential to creating school cultures where both educators and students can thrive.

This thought-provoking conversation is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and parents who want to understand how compassionate leadership can transform classrooms, empower teachers, and unlock the potential of every student.

Entrepreneurship with Mental Freedom - part 2

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 confidence.

Together, Kim and Joan unpack what freedom truly means as a business owner, how to stay grounded when comparison creeps in, and why celebrating small wins—like business cards or your first LLC—can fuel long-term success. Joan also highlights the importance of mentoring women in tech, embracing failure as a pathway to knowledge, and appreciating the “GLOW” (Gifts, Lessons, Opportunities, and Wisdom) in everyday challenges.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or someone seeking more alignment in your life, Joan’s candid insights will leave you motivated to redefine success on your own terms.

Connect with Joan Karstrom

Website: jcodestudio.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joan-karstrom

Catch up on Part 1 of this conversation to hear the beginning of Joan’s Mental Freedom journey.

Entrepreneurship with Mental Freedom - part 1

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 on her own terms, Joan shares how the principles of Mental Freedom—like Responsibility vs. Response-ability, the Unconditional Trust Challenge, and Rewriting the Stories in Your Head—gave her the clarity and confidence to launch her business.

Listeners will hear how Joan shifted from self-doubt to self-trust, created a values-driven business, and now mentors others to do the same. If you’ve ever wondered how to build meaningful work while aligning with your true needs, this episode offers practical tools and an empowering perspective.

Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2 of this conversation on "Entrepreneurship with Mental Freedom."

Parenting with Mental Freedom - part 2

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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, Wisdom), and building autonomy, boundaries, and resilience—without losing emotional safety. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or counselor, you’ll leave with practical tools to help children meet their own needs and thrive.

Rachel’s website: https://alignandempowercoaching.com

Missed Part 1? Listen here.

Parenting with Mental Freedom-part 1

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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.

Rachel shares how the principles of Mental Freedom®—including responsibility vs. response-ability, unconditional trust, and empowering language—shape her parenting approach with her two young children. From fostering autonomy and connection to modeling resilience and healthy boundaries, this episode offers practical insights for any parent who wants to create a nurturing, values-driven home environment.

Tune in to discover how parenting with mental freedom helps kids develop confidence, emotional safety, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with strength and joy.

Counseling Veterans: Trust, Trauma, and Choice Theory in Action

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 limitations of EMDR therapy, why Choice Theory is so effective for trauma recovery, and the importance of helping veterans reconnect with their basic needs and rebuild their quality world. You’ll also learn about practical, confidential support options like MFLACs and Vet Centers.

Whether you’re a counselor, a veteran, or a loved one seeking support, this episode offers valuable guidance for approaching healing with empathy, respect, and psychological insight.

This is the Season 7 finale of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life — we’ll return September 4th with Season 8!

Military Mental Health, Trauma, and Counseling with Dr. Janet Morgan

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 counselors—and why not every therapist is equipped to help.

Together, they explore the unspoken pain of post-traumatic stress (not a disorder), the challenge of transitioning to civilian life, the impact of military ethos and identity, and how Choice Theory provides a respectful, empowering framework for healing.

Whether you're a mental health professional, veteran, or ally, this episode offers deep insight, practical wisdom, and an invitation to approach military mental health with greater understanding and compassion.

Don’t miss Part 2 next week as the conversation continues.

Designing a Life You Love: Jane Newman on Mental Freedom®, Educational Leadership & Bold Choices

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 toll modern education can take on the professionals within it—and she's made it her mission to help people realign with their purpose, values, and emotional well-being.

Jane shares how she uses the principles of Choice Theory® to help educators reconnect with what truly matters—not just in the classroom, but in their lives. She talks about the importance of living in congruence with your inner beliefs, how self-awareness influences teaching effectiveness, and what happens when educators are no longer energized by the work they once loved. With compassion and clarity, Jane explains why leaving a profession doesn’t mean failure—it can be the first step toward reclaiming joy and designing a more fulfilling life.

You'll hear:

Why educator burnout is often a sign of misalignment, not inadequacy
The difference between teaching from obligation vs. inspiration
How Mental Freedom® empowers individuals to choose the life they want
Jane’s own courageous story of stepping away from her role as principal
The ripple effect of aligned, joyful professionals on the next generation
How core values serve as a compass for personal and professional decisions
The power of intentional living and giving yourself permission to evolve

Whether you’re an educator questioning your path, a leader wanting to reignite your purpose, or simply someone curious about the psychology of meaningful life change, this episode will challenge and inspire you.

Learn more about Jane and her work, go to http://www.newcoreconsulting.com. You’ll also find her link tree at https://linktr.ee/newcore?utm_source=qr_code.

Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs it today.

Empowering Educators Through Self-Awareness: A Choice Theory Approach with Jane Newman (Part 1)

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 rediscover their joy.

Jane shares her powerful shift from school principal to national consultant, offering training that prioritizes being over doing. She dives into how understanding personal motivations and internal control can reignite passion among burned-out educators, empower new teachers, and foster more emotionally evolved role models for the next generation. You’ll hear about her transformative "Core Connections Quality Outcomes" framework, her focus on self-leadership, and how she helps school staff move from “I have to” to “I choose to”—the essence of Mental Freedom®.

If you're passionate about education, personal growth, or creating mentally free environments in schools, this conversation will leave you inspired.

Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2 of this dynamic interview.

Mastering the Art of Listening: Christine Miles on Empathy, Influence & The Listening Path (Pt 2)

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 is not about offering advice, but about guiding people to tell their full stories.

She shares powerful strategies from her framework, including the “Listening Compass”—six simple but effective questions to deepen connection and foster trust in any conversation. From corporate boardrooms to classrooms to family dinner tables, Christine explains how building this muscle improves emotional intelligence, enhances communication, and leads to greater influence.

This episode is a must for parents, educators, therapists, and leaders who want to foster stronger relationships and create environments of genuine understanding. Christine also discusses the challenges technology poses to human interaction and reveals how we can reverse the trend with early and intentional listening education.

You can watch part 1 of this interview with Christine here.

Learn more about Christine’s work at www.thelisteningpath.com

Contact Christine directly at: cmiles@thelisteningpath.com

Explore her author site: www.christinemileslistens.com

The Listening Path: Unlocking the Hidden Power of Listening with Christine Miles (Pt 1)

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Do 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—and how that’s impacting our relationships, our leadership, and our lives.

Christine shares how growing up with a mentally ill parent shaped her superpower: listening beneath the surface. From Fortune 100 boardrooms to fifth-grade classrooms, Christine is building a global movement to teach people how to listen to understand—not just hear words.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, you'll learn:

Why only 2% of people have formal listening education
How listening builds empathy—even if you're not naturally empathetic
Why “active listening” often falls short
How our subconscious biases distort what we hear
And what you can do right now to start listening differently

If you're a coach, parent, leader, therapist, or simply someone who wants to connect better with others, this episode is for you.

Connect with Christine Miles:

TheListeningPath.com

ChristineMilesListens.com

Email: cmile@theliteningparth.com

Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode! Tag @OlverInternational and tell us what insight resonated with you the most.

Self-Image & The Power of Visibility with Angela Acosta (Part 2)

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 self-doubt and redefine beauty on their own terms.

Angela also introduces her newest project, Startup Stories, where she’s on a mission to raise the visibility of 100 female entrepreneurs through branding photo shoots and done-for-you media support.

Learn more about Startup Stories at: startupstories.space

Follow Angela on Instagram: @a.atelier.photography

Connect with Angela on LinkedIn: Angela Acosta

This is a powerful conversation for any woman navigating beauty standards, visibility, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.

Redefining Beauty: How Photography and Community Empower Women Over 40

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 photography studio and her online community, Angela is transforming how women see themselves—one portrait and one voice at a time. Learn how setting an intention for your own visibility can be an act of radical self-love and legacy-building. This conversation is part one of a two-part series that will leave you inspired to see yourself—and your story—through a more empowering lens. Don't forget to return next week for part 2.

Check out The Gal Project and Angela Atelier.

Inclusive Parenting: Finding Strength on the Autism Journey

Thu, 22 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 welcoming to all—especially those who often feel excluded from traditional activities.

We also discuss the emotional reality of receiving an autism diagnosis as a parent, the importance of community support, and the grieving process of letting go of the future you imagined for your child so you can embrace the beautiful, unique individual they are.

Ashley offers practical advice on how to:

Find or create inclusive spaces in your community
Connect with others who understand the neurodiverse parenting journey
Support your child while navigating your own emotional landscape

This episode is for any parent, educator, or ally who wants to better understand the power of inclusion and what it truly means to say: It’s going to be okay.

Listen to Part 1 of Kim's interview with Ashley

Learn more about Ashley’s work through the Infinite Inclusion Foundation on Facebook.

Parenting, Neurodiversity & the Power of Inclusion with Ashley Patrick (Part 1)

Thu, 15 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 with autism at age two, along with a blended household of seven children ranging from ages 3 to 23.

Ashley opens up about the balancing act of motherhood and career, the isolation that can come with parenting a neurodiverse child, and the deep transformation that led her to build a new, inclusive community. From grief and growth to advocacy and action, Ashley speaks candidly about creating spaces where every child—and every parent—feels seen and supported.

Tune in to hear:

How Ashley navigates mom guilt and gives herself grace
The challenges and beauty of parenting a child with autism
How she created inclusion-focused events and built a network of support
Her journey toward launching a nonprofit to uplift families like hers

Whether you're a parent, an educator, or someone passionate about inclusion, this episode will speak to your heart. Don’t miss part two of this powerful conversation in next week’s episode!

If this conversation resonates, please leave a review and share it on social media—tag @OlverInternational so we can thank you personally.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or at lifeequalschoices.com.

Parenting Against the Grain: The Agile Approach with Bia Dimovski (Part 2)

Thu, 08 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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—and how that perspective led her to reject mainstream trends in favor of meaningful connection, structure, and flexibility with her daughter.

Together, Kim and Bia unpack:

Why Agile methodology isn’t just for software teams—it can be a powerful framework for raising children
How to parent "against the grain" with confidence, even when it goes against public opinion
The critical role of parent-to-parent communities in supporting intentional parenting
Practical ways to limit technology use early—and why it matters
The importance of modeling emotional intelligence, accountability, and collaboration for kids

This episode is a must-listen for parents craving deeper relationships with their children and the courage to raise them with purpose in today’s chaotic world.

To listen to part 1 of this interview, click here. Grab Bia’s book Agile Parenting on Amazon and explore her parenting workbook and framework. You can also connect with Bia at https://agileparenting.org.

Next week, Kim continues the parenting conversation with Ashley Patrick to discuss raising neurodivergent children. Subscribe so you don’t miss it!

Agile Parenting™: Intentional Connection in a Fast-Paced World

Thu, 01 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 parenting philosophy to emphasize presence, connection, and mutual learning with her daughter.

Rather than following conventional parenting labels like "helicopter" or "snowplow," Bia reframes what it means to be deeply engaged. From modeling adult conversations to rediscovering creativity through shared art projects, she illustrates how parenting can be a reciprocal growth journey. This heartwarming conversation offers fresh perspective, especially for parents seeking to nurture strong bonds while navigating the distractions of technology and social pressure.

If you like this conversation, don't forget to return next week for part 2.

And if you're a counselor with a master’s degree looking to elevate your impact, Kim invites you to join the next Academy of Choice 30-hour coaching program starting May 8, 2025. This board-certified coach training is ideal for professionals ready to empower their clients through mindset shifts, accountability, and practical coaching strategies. Learn more and register at https://olverinternational.com/academy-of-choice.

Bridging the Divide: A Courageous Conversation Across the Aisle

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 inequality, white privilege, and the legacy of racism in America—all without shouting or shutting down.

With curiosity and compassion, Kim and Mike discuss controversial topics like affirmative action, police history, socioeconomic disparity, the media's role in polarization, and the need for a viable third political party. While their worldviews differ, their shared desire to understand, rather than attack, shines through.

This episode is a masterclass in how to agree to disagree with grace, demonstrating that healing our country starts at the kitchen table, not the Capitol building. If you’ve ever struggled to talk politics with loved ones, this conversation offers a hopeful path forward.

Stick around to the end for a heartfelt reflection from Kim on what it really means to be united as Americans.

If this is your first listen to this series, be sure to backtrack to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of Kim's conversation with Mike Cory.

Our next 30-hour coaching cohort begins May 8. If you are interested, then click here to get the details and to register.

Respectful Disagreement: A Democrat and Republican Talk Politics, Abortion, and Equity

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 and Mike openly share their opposing views while holding space for mutual respect. This episode offers a rare glimpse into what’s possible when people disagree without hostility — and listen with curiosity instead of judgment.

Whether you lean left or right, you’ll find insights, questions, and perhaps even some common ground in this important conversation.

Be sure to catch Part 1 for context — and don’t miss Part 3 next week as the discussion concludes.

Our next 30-hour coaching cohort begins May 8. If you are interested, then click here to get the details and to register.

Can We Talk? Bridging Political Divides with Respect and Curiosity

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 laws and media mistrust to Medicaid, Christian values, and government corruption, this conversation explores the values beneath the views—and reveals how much more we have in common when we take time to truly hear each other.

This is Part 1 of a three-part series. Return right here next week Part 2.

If you are interested in our coaching program at Olver International, you'll find more information and registration links here.

Bridging the Divide: A Real Conversation Across Political Lines

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 understand—not to change someone’s mind.

Then, I sit down with Mike Cory, a high school aquaintance who reached out during a tense political time, genuinely wanting to understand my perspective. Over the next three episodes, you can hear that although we come from different sides of the political spectrum, our conversation is proof that it’s possible to talk across differences without yelling, name-calling, or canceling each other.

Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to open your heart and your mind. If you’ve ever lost a friend, strained a family relationship, or just felt overwhelmed by the political divide, this conversation is for you.

Let’s model what respectful political discourse can look like—because our relationships and our democracy depend on it.

The full URL for the article I quoted is https://www.mic.com/articles/90621/why-america-is-no-longer-no-1-in-9-charts.

If you are interested in exploring our board certified coaching programs, you can check them out here.

Unlocking Leadership Transformation with Choice Theory Psychology – Part 2

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 an internal control mindset, moving away from external motivators like rewards and punishments and toward a more inclusive, inspiring approach. Hussein also reflects on the profound impact of translating my book, Mental Freedom, into Farsi—both personally and professionally.

For leaders still relying on control-based tactics, Hussein offers wise advice—and leaves us with a memorable quote that sums up his philosophy: "Even if you win the rat race, you're still a rat." I couldn’t agree more.

If you missed Part 1, be sure to check it out for the full picture of Hussein's transformation.

Interested in becoming a Board Certified Coach (BCC) through Academy of Choice? Our next cohort for the 60- or 120-hour programs begins April 1. Click here to learn more and register.

Unlocking Leadership Transformation with Choice Theory Psychology

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 from an external control approach to a more effective strategy — one that prioritizes his employees' five basic needs and emphasizes internal motivation. Tune in to discover how embracing Choice Theory transformed Hussein's leadership, fostering greater trust, engagement, and team success.

Transformational Leadership part 2

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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-transformation. Missed part 1 of our conversation? Click here to listen. And if you’re ready to level up your coaching skills, explore our 60-hour coaching program by clicking here.

Transformational Leadership part 1

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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.

You can register for our Basic Intensive Training in Choice Theory and Reality Therapy here, or if you'd rather get your questions answered, set up a Zoom meeting with Kim here.

When Relationships End

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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 practical strategies to help you let go with grace, rediscover balance in your pain, and step confidently into the next chapter of your life.

If you're ready to deepen your journey toward healing and growth, start by watching our Mental Freedom® Masterclass and then schedule your complimentary Mental Freedom Strategy session with Kim.

Intimate Negotiations for the Win/Win/Win

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Join 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, practicing empathy, and unleashing your creativity can lead to win/win/win outcomes that benefit you, your partner, and the strength of your relationship.

Drawing from the insights in my book, Secrets of Happy Couples, I share practical strategies for transforming conflicts into opportunities for growth and connection.

Ready to experience true mental freedom? Watch our Masterclass and schedule your call with Kim to take the next step on your journey.

The Alone Stage of the Relationship Cycle

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 reflection might just be the secret ingredient to creating a happier, healthier relationship next time around. For more insights, check out my book, Secrets of Happy Couples.

Decision-Making with Values, Beliefs, and Purpose part 2

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 living authentically and unapologetically, leading to more joy, ease, and abundance.

We dive into the powerful tools Alyssa shares with her clients to help them move forward with confidence, as well as her take on "living in alignment"—what it really means and how she helps people recognize when they’re on their true path.

If you missed Part 1, you can catch up here. And don’t forget to visit Alyssa’s website to grab her free gift: "7 Simple Ways to Soothe Your System and Shift Your Mood."

Decision-Making with Values, Beliefs, and Purpose

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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, opening the door to greater joy, ease, and abundance.

In Part 1 of our interview, we discuss the biggest obstacle people face when making decisions, practical strategies to overcome it, and how our past experiences and relationships shape the way we choose today.

To learn more about Alyssa and download her gift, “7 Simple Ways to Soothe Your System and Shift Your Mood,” visit her website at https://www.alyssautecht.com. Scroll down to just above the testimonials and click the teal bar labeled “Download 7 Simple Ways.” Enjoy the episode!

Uncovering Your "Why" with Dr. Gary Sanchez - part 2

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 alone, how to leverage your WHY.os personally and professionally, and whether it’s better to build a team of like-minded people or those who complement your strengths. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out Part 1 first.

Dr. Sanchez is also offering listeners a 50% discount on his transformative WHY.os system, which includes a personalized marketing message to help your customers recognize exactly who you are. Listen until the end to grab your discount code and discover your why!

If you’re planning to write a book in 2025, join our monthly virtual Writers Group. And if you and your partner are looking to strengthen your bond this Valentine’s Day, don’t miss our Relationship Recharge Experience on Zoom, happening February 15, 2025. Enjoy the episode!

Uncovering Your ‘Why’ with Dr. Gary Sanchez

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 revealing what truly drives us, Dr. Sanchez also guides people in creating a powerful personal brand that truly reflects their deepest motivations—something I can personally attest to as nothing short of miraculous. In this Part 1, we discuss the nine “WHYs,” how Dr. Sanchez discovered them, and why uncovering yours and helping others discover theirs is so crucial. Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, where we dive even deeper into “Discovering Your Why.”

You can find Dr. Gary Sanchez at whyinstitute.com.

Additional Resources

Interested in writing and publishing your book this year? Join our Writers Group.
Looking to recharge your relationship around Valentine’s Day? Join our Relationship Recharge Experience on February 15!

Reentry+ part 2

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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 up with Tony’s powerful message of transformation and evolution for everyone touched by the justice system. You can hear Part 1 here. Be sure to register for Tony's Rezilience Builders Network event on March 4, 2025, at ReentryPlus to secure a free copy of their eBook, Rezilient Mind. Finally, you can register for the Relationship Recharge Zoom retreat here.

ReEntry+ Part 1

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 reform in Georgia, influenced initiatives nationwide, and dedicated his life to helping those impacted by incarceration redefine reintegration. In part 1 of this episode, we discuss Tony's inspiration for creating ReEntry Plus, the difference between Reentry and Reintegration, and why reintegration is crucial to the initial reentry process. Tony also underscores the difference between a journey and becoming. Next week we'll conclude this topic by explaining how Mental Freedom is a cornerstone of Reentry Plus. Tony will share his ReZilient Builders Network and its role in supporting justice-involved and justice-impacted individuals. The interview will conclude with Tony's takeaway message. Finally, you can register for the Relationship Recharge Zoom retreat here.

Mental Freedom at Work - Part 3

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 experience of pain. You may also want to listen to Part 1 and Part 2. Finally, you can register for the Relationship Recharge Retreat here.

Mental Freedom at Work - part 2

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 1 of Mental Freedom at Work here. Part 3 will be dropping on December 19. You can register for our Writers Group here.

Mental Freedom at Work - part 1

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 learn more about taking a Mental Freedom Experience, you can learn more here. There is an advertisement at the end for our Writers Group if you are interested in writing your book in 2025. We have an intimate group of self-publishing writers who are discovering how to turn their manuscript into a book that sells.

The Antiracist School Leader

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 introducing antiracist policies from staff, parents, or the wider community. Dr. Harris shares insights on fostering meaningful conversations about race and equity among educators, even those hesitant to engage.

Throughout our discussion, Daman emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and provides guidance for leaders embarking on an antiracism journey. He explains the concept of homophily and its impact on diversity work, underscoring why understanding this dynamic is essential. Daman also discusses the value of continuous professional development in sustaining an antiracist school culture and shares advice for keeping staff motivated in this ongoing effort. For school leaders dedicated to integrating antiracist practices in their schools or districts, Daman's book is a must-read.

To learn more, visit https://damanharris.com or reach out to Daman directly at daman@damanharris.com.

Teacher Building Relationship, Compassion, and Accountability

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 involvement. He also shared the inspiration behind his concept of "performance-based relationships" and his creation of the Future Man Success Prep course. Carlos explained how he helps teachers develop a "classroom coach" model, recognizing how coaches earn the admiration of their players through strong relationships and positive expectations. By adopting this coaching mindset, teachers can unlock greater potential in their students. Carlos also reflected on his time as a principal, where he achieved remarkable goals through a focus on compassion and accountability. We wrapped up with his advice to educators and school leaders looking to transform their school culture. To connect with Coach Carlos, visit his website: https://carlosjohnson.org.

Creating Meant for More Classrooms with Angie Freese

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 experiences. We dive into what inspired her to write Meant for More, explore the brave steps educators can take to create lasting change, and discuss how those outside the education system can support teachers while challenging faulty narratives. Angie also shares what "dignity" truly means in the context of her work. Whether you're an educator, leader, or someone invested in the future of education, this conversation is filled with actionable insights and hope. You can also join Angie’s virtual book study on skillsforce.com. Connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on Instagram. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about creating classrooms where every student thrives!

Family and Educator Together Teams

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 educators, he’s building meaningful partnerships that prioritize students' success. The results? Not only are students thriving, but teachers are rediscovering the joy in teaching and choosing to stay in their roles longer. Ari shares his research-backed methods, the ripple effects of these powerful collaborations, and the transformative impact on school communities. Tune in to hear how you can apply these insights and be inspired by Ari’s book, On the Same Team, now available on Amazon. Don’t miss this episode—it’s a game-changer for anyone invested in education!

Connect with Ari on LinkedIn or via email at arigerzon@gmail.com.

Empathy, Equity, and Anti-racism in the Classroom

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 (CEI), founded by Dr. Mason, with Jill Flanders serving as Executive Director. Their book equips teachers with tools to nurture empathy and equity in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of raising a new generation of anti-racist children to achieve true equity. If you're curious about your own implicit biases, explore Harvard's Implicit Bias Assessments. We all have biases—recognizing and reducing their impact is key to fostering change in ourselves and those around us.

Gems with Genesis Amaris Kemp

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 only one and she didn't feel like her contributions were taken very seriously. So what did she do? She wrote the book, Chocolate Drop in Corporate America, to call attention to the issue. Genesis is a deeply spiritual person who has suffered four major losses in the past four years, including a child. She shares how she is still smiling and how her faith helps her withstand those losses with selflessness rather than selfishness. Check out her Gems podcast and visit her website at https://genesisamariskemp.net. You can, of course, contact her there, but give her some time to respond because she is about to give birth to her second child any day now.

Achieving Flow with Dr. Susan Jackson

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 important experience to understand. Sue covers the characteristics of being in flow and some things we can do to make flow more likely to occur for us in our lives and performance tasks. Sue has written the recently released Amazon #1 bestselling book, Experiencing Flow: Life Beyond Boredom and Anxiety, and shares her motivation for writing it and what you'll get when you read it. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and know you will, too. If you'd like to learn more about Sue and her work or contact her for more information, you can do that here,

Emotions in the Workplace

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 held by Kealah. She defined what a communication coach is and what they do. We talked about the fight-or-flight response and how that affects communication. Kealah shared her favorite tools for processing feelings and distinguished between processing and managing feelings. The BMT Index stands for body, moods, and thoughts. Coach Kiki is also working on her pilot program called, "The Four Corners of Feelings" and she's looking for some people willing to go through her beta program to co-create with her what this program will look like. She knows how important emotions are in communications, both in one's personal and professional life. You can follow her on Substack at We Build Better Humans | Coach Kiki Kealah Parkinson | Substack, or visit her website to sign up for the Four Corners of Feelings pilot program, take her coaching eligibility quiz, or contact her about her expertise or services.

Unconvention in Every Way

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

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 some interesting unconvention qualities. In this episode, we discuss how she decided on her rebranding, what unconvention means to her, her use of "un" words in coaching, my personal unwords, her podcast "unconversations," and how she works with her clients to help them discover what is unique about themselves, often the very things they have gotten criticized for in the past. Once discovered, a person learns to lean into those qualities and lives a life filled with passion, purpose, and authenticity. To contact her for more information or for coaching yourself, check out her website at unconventionllc.com info@unconventionllc.com.

Bridging the Gap between Spirituality and Mental Health part 2

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In 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 men and what steps people can take to break down the barriers to seeking help. You can reach Dr. Dent through his website, Max Out Coaching for more information.

Bridging the Gap between Spirituality and Mental Health

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this 2-part episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Charles Dent, an educator, counselor, coach, and pastor. Charles utilizes Choice Theory and Reality Therapy in his work and has penned several books: When a Woman Gives Up Her Heart, 42 Days: Becoming a Powerful Person of Patience, How to Overcome the Predator of Your Faith, Date Rape at 11 AM Sunday, and 42 Habits of Successful Parents. Charles is a Black man living in the south committed to creating bridges between faith-based communities and mental health clinics to better serve the African American population who has been disenfranchised by the medical system. We discuss the unique mental health challenges Black men face and how systemic issues and economic disparities contribute to these challenge, how mental health professionals can better understand and address the culture stima surrounding mental health particularly among Black men and how the community, family, and faith can strengthen their support systems. You can reach Dr. Dent through his website, Max Out Coaching. Tune in next week for part 2.

Human Design with Kate Varness

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I was delighted to speak with Kate Varness, a Clarity Coach who helps women find their path through life's transitions. She does this with an astrological tool called Human Design. Learning your Human Design assists you to understand yourself better and figure out the best ways to respond during transitions based on your specific traits and strengths. It was fascinating to me, especially when Kate delved into an example of some work she did with a consultant who was struggling with overwhelm. Kate offers our listeners a free video called How to Find Your Way In. It's a 2-part method to identify where you are and where you're going. You'll also learn why it's so important to intentionally shift during life transitions, and how to prepare for your next adventure with confidence and support. You can reach Kate for more information at kate@katevarness.com.

Mindful Self-Intelligence

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I get to chat with Nichole Meade about her creation, Mindful Self-Intelligence. Nichole created her concepts from a variety of disciplines, including quantum physics, Shamanism, Buddhism, science, and mathematics, of all things. Nichole describes herself as a rainbow unicorn in a ones-and-zeroes world, which makes her a breath of fresh air for me. Listen in to discover Mindful Self-Intelligence and how to solve for the f(me) or the function of me. Nichole also shares her thoughts about discovering oneself so people can be the best and most aligned version of themselves for themselves, but also, for "all the things." She discusses finding ways that work for her that start as a way, become a transitional the way, on the way to simply being her way. This is not your regular conversion. If you want to take a dive into a converstion you probably won't have in your everyday life, have a listen. Should you want to reach out to Nichole to continue the conversation, the best way to do that is on LinkedIn.

Couples and Mental Freedom

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of talking with Dr. Kiley Callaway about his work with couples in his congregation. As a pastor with a degree in pastoral counseling, Kiley is a certified Mental Freedom practitioner who uses that and Choice Theory psychology with those who come to him for help. He shares how he does that, along with some successes his clients have achieved. We also talk about how both Choice Theory and Mental Freedom, while not associated with any religion, can be supported by biblical scriptures. Kiley's counseling license allows him to work across all states so if you are interested in pastoral counseling that is underpinned by Choice Theory and Mental Freedom, you can contact him through his website, Christian Counselor | Be Transformed Christian Counseling | Gering (betransformedcounseling.org).

Proper Problem Assignment

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about the challenge experienced by couples when one person is upset about something the other person does. They miscategorize the problem as the other person's instead of their own. The problem lies with the person who is most upset by it. If you own the problem, then it's your responsibility to fix it. This puts you in the driver's seat. Otherwise, you are powerless to fix it while waiting for your partner to change. Additionally, Kim discusses not staying in relationships where you are not receiving even the bare minimum you want. More of Kim's views on couples can be found in her book, Secrets of Happy Couples.

Couples Coaching with Elizabeth Overstreet

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I was fortunate to be able to interview a colleague and fellow coach, Elizabeth Overstreet. Elizabeth functions primarily as a coach for couples. We had a great conversation talking about attachment styles and how they affect relationships, the evolution of relationships, and why we often resist healthy relationships. Listen to the end to hear two "secrets" Elizabeth shares that can enhance relationships. If you'd like to reach out to her, you will find her at her website: https://elizabethoverstreet.com. You can also read her book, Love Can Be Messy But You Don't Have to Be.

Love Coach Atlanta

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kelvin Troy Johnson, founder of Love Coach Atlanta and author of Secrets of the Mind of a Man. Given that much of my audience is female, I thought you might be interested in the information Kelvin shares. I noticed him on TicToc and liked what he was saying so I was honored when he was brave enough to say "yes" to being interviewed by a total stranger. The conversation was entirely fun and enjoyable for me. I found we agree on many things and just say it differently. What I particularly loved is that he isn't that dating coach out there trying to help men scam women into dating without commitment. Kelvin is the coach who works with women to understand what men want and how you can know, and benefit from, that yourself. Men are simple; men are visual. What they say is usually what they mean and they are attracted with their eyes first, and then their brain. Listento the end to hear the compettling offer he made for our audience members. Then, if you want to learn more from Kelvin, you can look him up at By Kelvin | Love Coach Atlanta, follow him on TicToc or order his book here.

Taking Care of Your Past so You Can Be the Best Parent for Your Children

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Priyanka Venkataraman, who gave up a thriving OBGYN practice to be the best mom she could be for her son. She is not looking back! When Priyanka's wonderful nanny had to leave after 1.5 years, she realized something had to give and she knew she wanted to be there for her family. She spent a year working on herself with her own parenting coach before becoming a parenting coach herself. She specializes in working with busy, professional moms like herself who might be looking for some answers about navigating this things called parenting that no one is ever prepared for. You can find her at Wayfinding Moms, where she offers an initial 30-minute free session, to discover what she can offer you.

Adjusting Great Expectations: Parent Edition

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking a second time to the author of The Golden Ticket, Irena Smith. Irena was on the show last month to talk about her new book and I wanted her to return to talk about parenting, particularly parenting neurodiverse kids; she has three of them! We talk about the importance of realizing that going to an Ivy League School isn't what's best for everyone and isn't the "Golden Ticket" many parents have come to believe it is. She implores parents to think about the stress added to a child's life by their parents' unwaveringly high expectations for their child's academic achievements. There are other ways to have a great life other than attending a top-20 school. Irena also shares a major life change she made since the last time I interviewed her that has allowed her to live more authentically in alignment with her values. She is a serious writer, maintaining not one, but two, Substacks. You can check them out here: Personal Statements and The Golden Ticket (is not what you think). You can also have the opportunity to hear her speak about navigating the college entrance process with your child at her virtual August presentation through the Library Speakers Consortium. You will find the information you need, as well as being able to register, here.

Many Ways to Form a Family

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the opportunity and pleasure to interview two guests from last season, Amy Reid and Heather Harrison. Heather and Amy are a modern-day, queer couple attempting to navigate the nuances of life with four kids in a blended family, with other co-parents, thriving careers in college teaching, side hustles in coaching, and a burgeoning real estate investment portfolio. In this episode, we talk about how they navigate their high-paced life, while also discussing the beautiful gift of surrogacy they gave to a very good friend, that then, gave back to them, formed a community and added to the love that's in the world.

Conscious Parenting

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I was fortunate to interview Silva Badalian about Conscious Parenting, a parenting method developed by Dr. Shefali Tsabary and practiced and taught by Silva, a is a therapist and parenting coach I discovered on LinkedIn. I loved some of the nuggets Silva dropped: "parenting with connection before correction" and the difference between stone and sand boundaries in parenting. She has some great questions for parents, also, such as "Would you treat your best friend the way you treat your child?" and "Has your parenting been working to get the results you want?" Pure gold! Listen in and should you wish to contact Silva for more information, you cam visit her website at Counseling | Glendale, CA | My Inner Healing Therapy, email her at info@myinnerhealingtherapy.com or phone her at 818-748-9977.

Parenting with Choice Theory

Thu, 30 May 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jeannette Markle, a former prosecutor turned parenting coach, among other things. Jeannette talked with me about her vast experience with a Canadian organization called the Association of Parent Support Groups in Ontario (APSGO), of which she is currently the president. Jeannette first encountered APSGO as a desperate parent looking for some sort of solution to "fix" her child who was displaying some scary, problematic behaviors as a 13 year old. After trying the traditional routes, Jeannette found what she was looking for and more with APSGO. She got the help she needed to repair the relationship with her daughter and she actually found herself. That was more than two decades ago and now she is the president of that organization and serves as a parent coach there. If you are struggling with difficult behaviors with your child, you may also find just what you need at APSGO via Zoom. Check them out at https://apsgo.ca.

Unfinished Business with Melanie Smith

Fri, 24 May 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the distinct pleasure of interviewing Melanie Smith for the second time. Melanie has a book, Unfinished Business, that takes trauma--the big, the small and everything in between--and helps the reader do the work so they can first, figure out who they are and then second, become intentional about building the life they want to live. Listen for Melanie's mic drop statement starting at marker 29:48. It holds an important message for everyone. To work with Melanie, visit her website, https://workwithmelaniesmith.com. You can also connect with her on social media. You'll find her on Facebook as Melanie Smith and on Instagram, she's melaniesmithoffical. Melanie generously offers listeners her Unfinished Business worksheets, which you can get by clicking here.

Choice Theory in Recovery

Sat, 18 May 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the great pleasure of interviewing Ben Eberhart, a man I met when he took Choice Theory training during the early stages of his recovery. Ben has moved on from the job he had when I met him to create a beautiful life for himself. He is a well-known local professional musician and family man. Ben is married with two young daughters at home and has found a career he truly loves as the Community Outreach for Arkview Recovery Center, a program he can really get behind. Join me to hear about this great place that helps people overcome their addiction and hear some of the wisdom Ben has accumulated over the years and how he credits AA, showing up, doing the work and Choice Theory as instrumental in his recovery. If you are struggling with an addiction or are a professional in the field who would like to check out Arkview, call 717-500-1111.

Help for the Helpers

Thu, 02 May 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of supporting counselors and therapists in processing the challenging traumas they encounter while aiding clients. Individuals grappling with mental health issues, incarceration, or substance use disorders often carry significant trauma burdens. As professionals, we can't ignore the impact of absorbing our clients' experiences, potentially leading to vicarious trauma and its symptoms affecting us. It's imperative to prioritize our well-being by seeking support from supervisors, mentors, coaches, support groups, trusted friends or our own counselor. By having an effective debriefing strategy in place, we can safeguard against internalizing hopelessness and maintain our capacity to serve with empathy and resilience.

Inside Out Job Men's Community

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing my friend, colleague and frequent guest of this podcast, Sylvester Baugh, about the men's group he has created. Following his life-saving kidney transplant, he says he felt called to create a safe space for men to be able to share and heal, and thus the Inside Out Job Community was born. Currently, he runs two groups--one that is in person with a group of unhoused individuals in the Chicago suburbs and the other that is virtual with ment from around the globe, who come together monthly to hear Sylvester's topic of the month and discuss the meaning for them. These groups are open to any male interested in joining but we discuss how a female's presence in the group would be detrimental to the purpose of creating a safe safe and helping men focus on internally looking at how they can improve themselves without adding the distraction of women in the group. By popular request, Sylvester is considering expanding what he offers by increasing the frequency and even adding a new group. If you are interested in either joining or learning more about this group, he can be reached at. baughtraining@onebox.com

Diversity of Girls High School Wrestling

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I get to interview a trailblazer in the sport of girls wrestling, my granddaughter, Saige Olver. According to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, in 1990, there were 112 girls who participated in high school wrestling. Since then, the sport has grown exponentially. Last season, '22-'23, there were 49,127 girls wrestling in the sport. The '23-'24 season was the first sanctioned season for girls in the state of Pennsylvania where today's guest, my granddaughter Saige Olver, lives. She was not only on that team this year, but she was the team member that went the farthest in competition by winning district competition, winning regional competition, and earning 3rd place in the state competition. In this episode, we talk about what it means to her to wrestle, how she comes by it naturally, and what her ambitious goals are for the future.

Treatment for the Incarcerated with Substance Use Disorder

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lacey Glueckert about her experiences in working in her local jail with people experiencing the intersectionality of incarceration, substance use disorders and often, homelessness. It is definitely a population without a lot of support and encouragement, something Lacey provides whenever she can. She is now part of the sheriff's budget rather than having her work funded through a grant. She exposes people to Choice Theory psychology and helps them make better choices that more effectively meet their needs. She would like to be able to train the correctional officers at the jail in Choice Theory, as well, so the jail could become an internal, rather than an external control environment. If you would like to contact Lacey, please use the contact form on her website at Home (choicerecoverycounseling.com). Please note that the sound on this podcast is not the best, but the content is great, particularly if you work in the correctional system.

DEI Truth

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

We spoke of intersectionality, how sexual orientation is not a choice and at what age many people know they are gay, and TRUTH. Nona Lee is an openly gay, Black female, who worked many years in men's sports as an attorney for the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona DiamondBacks. But she left that work behind when she discovered her true passion. She knew watching younger people putting their lives on the line protesting for racial equity, that she had to do everything she could to support them, so she started her speaking and consulting business, Truth DEI. Truth is important because Lee preaches that everyone needs to be authentic and be in environments that prioritize people's open expressions of who they are. Listen in to how she also uses TRUTH as an acronym for the framework she teaches. She also shares about some experiential, life-changing Truth Retreats she does in Montgomery and Selma, Alabama. Watch for her forthcoming book, The Truth about Us, to be released later in the year. Should you want to reach out for more information or to hire Nona, you can do so at info@truthdei.com.

The Entrepreneurial Mindset

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Judy Whalen, an entrepreneur who has been working with leaders of healthcare and educational organizations, service businesses, foundations, government agencies, manufacturing companies, chambers of commerce, entrepreneurs and solopreneurs since 1992. She helps leaders manage strategic change by clarifying their vision and their values. Judy defines mindset, and more specifically, the entrepreneurial mindset, and distinguishes between fixed and growth mindsets. Find out which one is more amenable to entrepreneurial pursuits. Judy was also generous enough to gift you, the listeners, a complimentary download of her eBook, The Big List of Core Values. You can email her at judy@centerforstrategicchange.com, for more information.

Creating Relational Influence

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Effective leaders know how to build relational influence with their direct reports. As John Maxwell states, "Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another." As a leader, you are trying to influence your people to buy into your, or your company's, agenda and vision. From my experience, I understand that relationships are the root of all influence. Therefore, having the ability to influence your people will be directly proportional to the strength of the relationships you form with the people you work with. I have created a checklist to help you evaluate how you are doing with each individual employee. It begins with creating a need-satisfying environment for yourself and your people. Next, is taking the time to explain the usefulness of what you want your people to do. And finally, you ask your employees to evaluate their own work, after you help them develop a successful structure for doing sot. You can download the checklist here: https://olverinternational.com/leadership

Self-Leadership

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing coach, Mary Meduna-Gross. Mary and I have reconnected after meeting several years ago through a mutual Choice Theory enthusiast. It was such a joy to talk to Mary again after all these years and find out we have so much in common. As I launch Mental Freedom, Mary is also launching a program of her own dedicated, not only to walk along her clients, but to actually teach them the skills they need to lead themselves, and then by extension, develop the skills necessary to lead others. Not a fan of the command-and-control brand of leadership, Mary offers a softer, more effective, leadership style. You can discover more about Mary on her website, Plena Vita |, particularly at her blog. She also hosts a podcast where she interviews other leaders at her Fully Alive podcast, which can be found wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Leadership Tips and Challenges

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview a fantastic coach and leader, Marcie Stern. We discuss leadership trends and current challenges, as well as Marcie's biggest leadership lesson, which came from a personal experience. Listen to learn more. You can reach Marcie through her website for further information and her book, So Long Inner Critic, Hello Inner Champion: 25 Tips to Master Your Mindset, is available on Amazon.

Mental Freedom with Dr. Tina Lee Odinsky-Zec

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview one of our soon-to-be Mental Freedom certified coach, Dr. Tina Lee Odinsky-Zec. Tina is a skilled learning & development expert with 20 years experience. She has a stellar track record coaching entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and social impact project managers. She is passionate about creativity, design thinking and discovering others' hidden potential. We spoke about Tina's personal and professional experience with Mental Freedom. She talked about the impact it had on her when she was going through a critical time and how she used it with others. She speaks of the future she sees for Mental Freedom, really helping people navigate the post-Covid world.

Mental Freedom with Mary Rothwell

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing another of our aspiring Mental Freedom practitioners, Mary Rothwell. We discuss her experiences with her own Mental Freedom Experience, as well as the exciting things that are happening with the people she is facilitating through their own Mental Freedom Experience. I just love talking about Mental Freedom and if you, or anyone you know, is interested in having your own Mental Freedom Experience, the first step is to take our complimentary Mental Freedom Masterclass.

Mental Freedom with Lois DaSilva-Knapton

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I get to interview a school administrator, Lois D’Silva-Knapton, about her experience with Mental Freedom. We talk about her own personal Mental Freedom Experience and the way she is using it with people at work and others in her life. I am always surprised by its wide applicability.

Mental Freedom with Teresa Greco - part 2

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Teresa Greco and I interview each other about our collective experiences with Mental Freedom principles and tools. Teresa is one of our Mental Freedom practitioners who shared how Mental Freedom helped one of her specific clients and what she loves about The Mental Freedom Experience. I talk about some of the benefits of Mental Freedom, its history and our hopes for the future. This is part two of the interview. If you are interested in reading a complimentary chapter of Mental Freedom in advance of its publication in July, you can download that here. For your own Mental Freedom Experience, sign up for our Masterclass.

Mental Freedom with Teresa Greco Part 1

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Teresa Greco and I interview each other about our collective experiences with Mental Freedom principles and tools. Teresa is one of our Mental Freedom practitioners who helps us with our research in 2023 so she shared some of that, as well as how it helped one of her specific clients and what she loves about The Mental Freedom experience. I talk about some of the benefits of Mental Freedom, its history and our hopes for the future. This is part one of the interview. If you are interested in reading a complimentary chapter of Mental Freedom in advance of its publication in June, you can download that here.

Mental Freedom with Dr. Ruby Powell

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing a friend and colleague, Dr. Ruby Powell. Dr. Powell is both a counselor and coach, who is certified in Mental Freedom. She has found Mental Freedom to be extremely helpful with both sets of clients, but particularly with counseling clients. She talks about how Mental Freedom helped her work through some things she had not yet tackled. You can check her out at her website, www.rubyepowell.com, where she works with her clients or explore her not-for-profit, www.oasisempowermentzone.com, where she provides single mothers encouragement and life coaching. This woman is a true powerhouse.

Mental Freedom with Rachel McElroy

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing a friend and colleague, Rachel McElroy. When I first met Rachel, she was the Director of Special Ed services in the largest school district in the state of Virginia. She is currently working in the private sector as she transitions into the field of coaching and consulting. She is a strong, confident professional woman, who speaks about how learning the Mental Freedom principles helped her personally, as well as with clients she is working with.

Mental Freedom with Sylvester Baugh

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing my friend and colleague, Sylvester Baugh. Sylvester has been using Mental Freedom in his life since 2020 and he talked with me about its effectiveness, not only in his own life personally, but also with his clients. If you would like to reach out to him for more information or to join his men's group on Mental Freedom, his virtual group on Mental Freedom or for coaching in general, you may email him at sylbaugh@gmail.com or baughtraining@onebox.com.

The Joy of Mental Freedom

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing some coaches and counselors, who have been certified in Mental Freedom® and used it with clients in the research phase and continue to use it in their practices now. They share how powerful Mental Freedom was for themselves and for their clients. It speaks to the power of these ideas and their ability to impact people, no matter the challenge they are experiencing. Mental Freedom is more a tool of resilience and strength to grow people to be bigger than anything that has happened, or ever will happen, to them. If you are interested in exploring Mental Freedom yourself, it begins with watching our complimentary Mental Freedom Masterclass.

Stress & Survival for Students

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode I interview Heather Harrison and Amy Reid, both of whom are internal control psychology teachers, coaches and college professors helping students navigate the stressful world of adulting while attending and studying for classes. We talk about the connection between coaches and educators, stress on students, and how they incorporate wellness activities into their respective classes. To learn more, visit their website at shiftone.ca.

Intentional Total Formation with Students

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I got to interview the newly retired, Steve Hammond, about the passion that's driving him these days. Steve has created a program he calls, Intentional Total Formation. Students are trusted with their own learning and are given weekly precepts to ponder with the ultimate goal being a student who truly knows themself when they are leaving the school at graduation. Steve also shared a choice he regrets that changed his behavior forever. If you would like to contact Steve, he can be reached through email at claritycom100@gmail.com or by phone at 757-374-9548.

Social & Emotional Learning with Ed Dunkelblau

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing my friend and colleague, Dr. Ed Dunkelblau, who is the International Coordinator for the Academy for SEL in schools to discuss social & emotional learning. I was, of course, previously aware of EQ, or emotional quotient, but wasn't up-to-date with SEL and Ed brought the receipts. We talked about what SEL is, the skills that comprise it and the benefits of implementing it in schools. Ed had a great response to the question, "When should we be teaching kids SEL skills in school?" and he said, "When their parents are in kindergarten." The benefits of SEL are astounding and everything educators and parents would want. In addition, research shows greater SEL skills lead to better academic grades. It's not an extra, fluffy thing; SEL actually is something that enhances learning. Ed also shared the choice he made to get involved with aath.org as a significantly positive choice he made. He found his home at the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor. To reach him for more information, email ed@teacheq.com. If you are interested in certification in SEL, there are two online certification course series at Rutgers University that lead to certification. There are two strands, one for educators to learn SEL in the classroom and the other for administrators to apply SEL in their school setting. You will find both programs here.

Managing Challenging Supervision Situations in a University Setting

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Patricia Robey, Full Professor in Psychology and Counseling at Governors State University in Illinois. In this conversation Dr. Robey talks about the values, beliefs and practices she considers as she plans for a new academic year. She discusses how she fosters an interest in learning for her students who may be resistant to taking certain required courses. She also shares her process for working with students who may be struggling academically. Pat shares her joy of being back in the classroom again and a choice she made that had a significant positive impact on her life. If you would like to reach out to Dr. Robey, you may do so through me at kim@olverinterntional.com.

How to Build Relationships with Students in School

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with a returning guest, Dr. Don Parker. Don is the real deal who has paid his dues in the trenches. He started working in the school system as a PE teacher and coach, then became the Dean of Students, and later became a principal and is now on the speaking circuit to help educators understand the importance of building relationships with students and how to develop cultures of inclusiveness and equity. In fact, he's written two books to about those subjects: Building Bridges and Be the Driving Force. You can visit his website at NOW BOOKING » Dr. Don Parker (drdonparker.com) and follow him on Facebook and X.

The Diversity of the DEIB Journey

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Dr. Shaunna Payne Gold, a wonderful gift in the field of DEIB. We discussed what being an ally really means, what the journey looks like for white people grappling with topics of diversity, how to care for oneself while doing this work and strategies for dealing with people and organizations that are resistors to the DEIB message. Shaunna also shared an important choice she made that had a significant positive impact on her life. Check out her website here: Home | Gold Enterprises, LLC (goldenterprisesllc.com). You can contact her via email at info@goldenterprisesllc.com or through LinkedIn or Instagram by searching for Gold Enterprises LLC or Shaunna Payne Gold. Watch for her new podcast, Unphased Unedited to be released on November 14, 2023. It will be sure to have some excellent content.

Choice Theory® and DEI

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview my friend and colleague, Gloria Cissé. Gloria is a faculty member of William Glasser International and the co-owner, founder, CEO and Lead Therapist at the Southern Center for Choice Theory, LLC in Macon, Georgia. Gloria has been successfully hosting the Difficult Discussions in Diversity for the Glasser Institute for Choice Theory - US. In this episode we talk about why DEI is such an important topic for discussion, even after all these years, and how to make these conversations more palatable. She talks about how embracing difference has improved the quality of her life, and how it can for others, too. She, like me, believes having an understanding of Choice Theory aids the curiosity, understanding and appreciation of difference. She also shares two important choices she made that positively impacted her life.

Connecting for Inclusion

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Ralph Brandt, who has built a highly successful business around the topic of DEI. The RDR Group specializes in helping people communicate in a meaningful way, naturally forming connections and fostering inclusiveness organically. Ralph begins by talking about how long he's been in the DEI space and how much it's changed, and stayed the same, over those years. He shares how RDR Group does DEI differently than most and includes some success stories. He makes a strong business case for inclusion and why diversity should not be politicized. The need is for cool heads to prevail and for people to understand that difference enhances business outcomes, which he backs up with some impressive statistics. He rounds out our conversation by sharing an impactful choice he made that changed his life. You can contact Ralph at ralph.brandt@rdrgroup.com or check out their website.

Zap the Gender Pay Gap

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Gwendolyn Tucker, a coach working in the area of DEI, specifically in the specialization of helping women get paid equitably for the work they do. Did you know women earn 82 cents to a man's dollar, on average, in the United States, and for women of color, it's even less? Because of the individual differences about money, Gwendolyn prefers working with women in one-on-one coaching sessions to address the specific areas they need to close the gap between what they are getting paid and what they are worth, and then coach them to develop the skills they need to scale their pay. Tune in to her podcast "Zap the Gender Pay Gap" and if you'd like to reach out, you will find her at gwendolynjtucker.com or on LinkedIn. You can learn more at Check out more here: https://www.leaderwholeads.com/diversity.html.

Note: Incorrect statistics stated in episode. The Gender Pay Gap is 18% and the Female/Male Earnings Ratio is 82%

Happy AF with Beth Romero

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing author, Beth Romero about her upcoming book, Happy AF. In 2020, Beth had what she describes as the perfect storm, with a multitude of events culminating in the loss of any happiness she had. Being a naturally happy person before these events, Beth went on a search to discover how to get that happiness back. It was a long-fought road. She tried tons of recommendations, some that worked really well, some with average results and some that just didn't work for her. She has put it all together in her book and shares some of it with the audience. One of the quotes I loved was, "Your life shouldn't be defined by your fall; it should be defined by your bounce back." I love that! For more information or to order the book when it publishes on November 14, visit https://bethromeroauthor.com.

Listening for the Period

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing my friend and fellow Yellow Ribbon speaker, Sporty King. Sporty and I have been working together since 2011 and enjoying every minute of it. He shares an acronym that Sporty calls an "act-ronym" for the word Life, that begins the title of my podcast. We spent the majority of the time talking about how important listening is to relationships. I have been known to call it listening for understanding, while Sporty calls it listening for the period. He also speaks of an internal conflict he had working for the military without ever serving in the Armed Forces and how he resolved that conflict. Finally, Sporty shares a choice he made that had a significant, positive impact on his life. If you'd like to reach out to Sporty, you can do so through his website at www.SportyKing.com.

The Enlightenment Project

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Jonathan Robinson, the New York Times bestselling author of The Enlightenment Project and co-host of the popular podcast Awareness Explorers. This man has made a career out of befriending some of the greatest spiritual leaders of our time. From Oprah to Advashanti, he has interviewed over 100 notable people to get their take on how to live a happy, peaceful and meaningful life. He has learned from the Dalai Lama, Byron Katie, Deepak Chopra, Mother Teresa and Ram Dass. He shares some of what he learned in this episode, while saving a lot of what is in his book for you to read for more details. It is amazing when he discloses that he was a suicidal teenager. Look at him now! Dr. Robinson trains therapists in MDMA Treatment. You can learn more at www.mdmatraining.net. You'll find his podcast, where he interviews other gurus at www.awareness explorers.com. You can find his book, The Enlightenment Project on Amazon or his website, www.theenlightenmentproject.net. To reach Jonathan for more information, please use the contact form on either of the two last mentioned websites.

Hope and Healing from Sexual Trauma

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the honor to interview a high school friend and author of From Within: My Path of Hope and Healing from Sexual Abuse. One in three girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they reach 18 years of age. Gigi Kilroe not only survived repressed sexual trauma from a very early age, she experienced dating violence, rape in college and another rape in her early 20s. How does one survive that, let alone come out the other side in a triumph position? Listen to this podcast to find out how Gigi went from abuse to a suicide attempt and more ideation to writing a book and being on the speaking circuit to help other survivors learn to find that light within and shine it brightly like she has learned to do. You can find Gigi at www.gigikilroe.com or connect with her on her on FaceBook as Gigi Kilroe.

Leadership Coaching with Patrick Jinks

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing an Academy of Choice graduate, Patrick Jinks, about his brand of leadership coaching. Patrick worked in the non-profit world for over two decades before parlaying his success into coaching other not-for-profits leaders. He has an impressive resumé, including a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, board-certification as an executive leadership coach, being recently recognized globally as one of the 10 Most Influential People in Leadership Coaching for 2022 by CIO Views Magazine, serving as a guest writer for Forbes.com, a multi-best-selling author and recognition as a two-time award winner through the Association for Talent Development. We talked about the process of coaching with a non-profit and leadership frame, rather than a corporate and business frame. Patrick says, "Coaching is coaching." The process doesn't really change, even though the environment may be different. Patrick shared his company's definition of leadership and his fidelity to the coaching process, rather than crossing over into the consulting arena. He dropped many pearls of wisdom, and this topped the list for me: "Every aspect of leadership, if it's done effectively, is through the lens of relationship." Finally, Patrick talks about the importance of coaches having a coach themselves. Check out this interview with an impressive leadership coach.

How to Have a Productive Day with Leslie Shreve

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing a productivity expert, Leslie Shreve, on how to have a productive day. Leslie talks about the consequences when people, especially leaders, aren't having a productive day and time is lost. She even talks about how poor productivity steals a person's mental freedom and how to gain it back. She names the number one tool for increasing productivity (Hint: It isn't Google). Finally, we wrapped up with three of the biggest myths about productivity. Leslie's Productive Day website features a quiz on your own personal #1 blindspot when it comes to productivity and offers some ideas for what to do about it. I learned I am a Giver (no big surprise there) but she also provides further insight into the blindspot, how it robs me of time and how to address it. I learned quite a bit from this guest and I bet you can, too! If you would like to contact Leslie for more information or to take her program, you can reach her at leslie@productiveday.com.

The Paradigm Shift in Leadership

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Katherine Lazaruk, a professional presence expert, who helps women in leadership accelerate their progress. We discuss the value of her work to the people she serves. Katherine talks about the new paradigm for leadership, the way it is shifting and what that means for people who want it to stay the way it used to be. We talked about the system and whose responsibility it is to change it. (Hint: it's everyone's.) She talks about executive presence and why it's "dead." Katherine rounds out the interview with a preview of what's next for her personally and professionally. Connect with Katherine on LinkedIn at (17) Katherine Lazaruk, AICI CIP, PCC | LinkedIn and get on her newsletter to hear the news about her forthcoming book or register for her upcoming micro learning webinars at lazarukconsulting.com.

Women in Business, Personal Brands and the Importance of Choices

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jaime Butler, a coach and consultant who says she does consultative coaching. We talked about that, brand and thought leadership, women in business, and the challenges and opportunities that grew out of Covid. Jaime discusses why working with a coach can really benefit C-suite executive and entrepreneurs. She also shares how she pivoted to help corporate leaders build their personal brand and some personal choices that positively impacted her career and personal life. Jaime offers a one-hour complimentary coaching session by contacting her on LinkedIn here: (9) Jaime Butler | LinkedIn.

Leadership, Trust and Corporate Culture

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lyndsay Dowd, a Top 10 Coach featured on Apple news, with a top 10% globally ranked podcast. Lyndsay and I covered a lot of ground in this podcast. We talked about soft skills and why they are so critical to a leader's and company's success. Lyndsay advocated for why leaders should make healthy culture a part of their strategy. She shared the things that contribute to poor culture, as well as what leaders can do to start building trust with their team. To round it all out, Lyndsay discussed the importance of personal branding and letting customers know what you stand for.

Working with the Neurodiverse Couple

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sarah Swenson, a psychotherapist in Seattle, WA who specializes in working with neurodiverse couples. She defines this as working with couples where one person is neurotypical and the other has autism. Sarah shares the specific challenges neurodiverse couples face that are different from other couples, as well as the goals for therapy and the skills and strategies they need to learn to make their relationships work. To reach her for more information or to take one of her online courses, you can find her here: wwww.theneurodiversecouple.com.

Co-Active Relationship Coaching

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Carolina Perez Sans, a co-active coach who works with couples and business leaders on the same types of skills, mainly communication and negotiation. I have known other co-active coaches but never really knew what co-active coaching is. Carolina explains the meaning of co-active coaching and what it means in relationship coaching. We discuss the overlap between couples and team leaders and the skills it takes to work with both. Carolina reveals the number one rule for relationships and how to make sure you are a good partner in your relationship.

Carolina offers a free sample session for teams, couples, or individuals. https://co-luminacoaching-booking.as.me/BKTconvo and 15% off any package to the listeners of this podcast. Email: carolina@co-luminacoaching.com for leaders and teams; info@couplescoach.info for couples.

Clarity before Commitment

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure to speak to a great friend of mine, best orator I know and excellent coach and counselor, Marcus "Dr. Respect" Gentry, about the questions he likes to ask couples when they come to him for his sage advice. We discussed three critical elements to a successful relationship, Marcus' advice for couples considering marriage, a big challenge for today's couples and how to make one's relationship stronger and more successful. If you would like to learn more about Marcus and his music and message, please visit his website at https://marcusgentry.com and you may contact him by email at respect@marcusgentry.com.

Loving through Tragedy

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Jarie Bolander, a man who has experienced loving his wife through leukemia and her eventual death. Those of you who know my story, know this is quite similar to my own story. We talk about how things are different for men and how important it was for Jarie and his beloved to Ride or Die till the end. Jarie also battled his dependence on alcohol and talks about finding love again. All of this you will find in his memoir titled, Ride or Die: Love through Tragedy. You will find love, loss, resilience and more love in this podcast. Look for his book due to be released on September 3 but it's currently available for preorder on Amazon. Jarie's website is https://jariebolander.com and you can also find him on Twitter and Facebook.

Parenting by Understanding Personalities Involved

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this session, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mama Mindy Green, a delightful mother of four, who is currently a Parenting Coach. She not only raised four children but she also homeschooled all but one from Kindergarten to 12th grade! Her oldest daughter wanted to graduate from the public school so she attended her junior and senior years there. Mindy has a special parenting program that assists parents and children alike to learn their DiSC profiles, which provides them with insights about their personalities, where there may be conflict and what to do about it. Mindy is neuro-trained, which helps her explain to parents realistic developmental expectations. She is offering any listener of this podcast 10% off her parenting program. You just set up a complimentary consultation with her to see if you will be a good match and let her know you heard her on this podcast and she will give you 10% off her parenting blueprint program. If you want to check out her website, it's https://mindygreencoafching.com and you can email her at mindy@mindygreencoaching.com.

Collaborative Divorce

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I interview Dr. Deb Gilman, a psychologist who works with parents and children throughout the collaborative divorce process. Dr. Gilman describes an alternative to ugly court battles where couples communicate their own needs, while considering the needs of their children during the divorce process. We discuss the difference between a child specialist and a parent evaluation and the role of conflict resolution in the process. Dr. Deb also recounts the many benefits of the collaborative process. Dr. Gilman describes this rewarding work and offers anyone interested in becoming a collaborative divorce specialist can email her at deb@drdebgilman.com or contact her through her LinkedIn profile.

Parenting with Purpose

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Shaker Fajer Al-Khalifa about how learning Choice Theory changed her life. We talked about what she learned, how it affected her adult relationships and how it changed the way she parented. She also shares a beautiful, miraculous moment in her work with people who have Downs Syndrome. She is about to teach the very first Choice Theory basic intensive training in Bahrain in November or December. If you would like to contact her, you can direct message her on her Instagram profile at Fajer bint Ali Al-Khalifa (@fajer_al_khalifa) | Instagram or contact her through WhatsApp at +973-38219556.

Navigating the College Admission Process with Your Kids

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview author and college admission consultant, Irena Smith about helping parents and students complete their college admissions process but she also shares her chasm between her personal and professional life and the profound lessons she learned that helped her in both places. Her biggest advice to parents is to listen to your children and meet them where they are, rather than where you'd hope they'd be. If you'd like to talk with Irena about her book, The Golden Ticket: A Life in College Admissions Essays, check out her website at www.irenasmith.com. To hire her to help with your child's college admission process, check out Irena and the team at www.sierraadmissions.com.

Meet the Parenting Coach

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Nkechi Oyegwe, the Parenting Coach from Nigeria. I had read a social media post she wrote on Instagram that I agreed with 100% and decided I wanted my audience to hear from her. We talk about discipline, parental attention and being your child's buddy. Nkechi's insights are insightful and line up with parenting from a Choice Theory perspective, even though she is unfamiliar with Glasser's work. She taught me something that I hadn't considered before and I just love when that happens. Listen in to learn what that is. Her parenting page is Nkechi Oyegwe Parenting Coach on Instagram and FaceBook and should you want to contact her, her email is nkechiuzor9@gmail.com.

Choice Theory in Private Therapy

Thu, 25 May 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview therapist and partner in Citron Hennessey Therapy, Leonard Citron. I met Leonard after he had received his certification in Choice Theory and Reality Therapy and instantly knew he had a lot to offer. Leonard is from Ireland and has made a life for himself in New York City as an adjunct professor at NYU, a fellow at The Albert Ellis Institute and a partner in a therapy practice employing approximately 35 therapists in the greater NYC area. In this conversation, we talk about why he offers Choice Theory training to all his therapists and the benefits they derive from that. Should you want to take advantage of their Mindfulness Group offering, write to info@privatetherapy.comfor details. If you'd like to contact Leonard directly, he can be reached at Leonard@privatetherapy.com.

Dreams Inspired by Hope

Thu, 18 May 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Evisha Ford, a colleague and fellow member of the Professional Women's Network in Chicago's south suburbs. Evisha has an inspiring story of seeing the need for special education for high school students and her school district decided it wasn't the right time for the program she developed. That didn't stop Dr. Evisha! She left her job and started her own non-profit to provide the desperately needed services to approximately 100 students a year. Their educational center is much more than just education, though. It's called, I Can Dream Center, and she screens her new hires for their capacity for compassion. Dr. Evisha is a magnanimous leader, who inspires those around to dream through her vision of hope. Her new book, Benches in the Bathroom, is available to preorder. To get involved with the I Can Dream Center, go to https://icandreamcenter.com or to contact Dr. Evisha Ford, go to https://drevisha.com.

The Myth of Chemical Imbalances-Part 2

Thu, 11 May 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I continue my interview Dr. Terry Lynch, author of Beyond Prozac, Selfhood and Depression Delusion. Dr. Lynch began his career as a medical doctor and later became a counselor/psychotherapist working with people who have psychiatric responses to their life events. Dr. Lynch and I talk about the role of trauma in mental health challenges and why psychiatry doesn't want to acknowledge it. We also look at so-called "mental illnesses" as coping skills or responses to whatever they have encountered in their life. Those coping skills should be validated and valued, rather than be called disorders. If you missed last week's podcast, be sure to go back and listen. It's gold. If you are a therapist interested in Dr. Lynch's work, you can see the online courses he's developed at www.doctorterrylynch.com and if you'd like to contact him, he can be reached at terry@doctorterrylynch.com.

The Myth of Chemical Imbalances-Part 1

Thu, 04 May 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Terry Lynch, author of Beyond Prozac, Selfhood and Depression Delusion. Dr. Lynch began his career as a medical doctor and later became a counselor/psychotherapist working with people who have psychiatric responses to their life events. Dr. Lynch talks about what each of his books mean to him, the idea of trauma in one's life and the illusion of chemical imbalances that psychiatry and Big Pharma say cause psychiatric illness. Dr. Lynch says this is a lie! I was enjoying our conversation so much and had other questions to ask him, that I decided to do a two-part podcast with him. If you like this podcast, be sure to tune in to next week's podcast for the answers to the questions posed at the end of this show. To reach Dr. Lynch, you may email him at terry@doctorterrylynch.com.

Distinguishing Coaches from Counselors, Teachers, Mentors and Consultants

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about how to distinguish between a coach and counselors, teachers, mentors and consultants. She talks about things clients can do to protect themselves from unqualified coaches and the three things coaches need to do with their clients. Finally, she wraps up by discussing clients as Hope Warriors. If you are interested in hiring or becoming a coach, you can email Kim at kim@olverinternational.com or schedule a time to discuss what you want here.

Choice Coaching in Poland

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Aleksandra Piatek, my friend and colleague from Poland where she serves as an organizational psychologist, coach, trainer, mentor, lecturer and MBA graduate. We talk about her company Choice Coaching, the name, differences between coaching in Europe and the US and how being a psychologist affects her abilities to provide coaching services. She shares how spirituality comes into her coaching sessions and how her coaching career has shaped her life. If you want to get in touch with Aleksandra, you will find her at www.choicecoaching.eu.

Coaching Military Members and Suicide Prevention

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0500

I interview a mental health counselor and coach, with vast experience working with military members, Carmella Navarro, LCPC. Ms. Navarro was in charge of suicide prevention for the 85th ARSC (Army Reserve Support Command). She is currently retired from that position and building her private practice as both a counselor and coach, using Mental Freedom and Reality Therapy. In this interview, Carmella shares some of the challenges facing military members after deployment, including loss of purpose and suicidal ideation. If you or a family member is thinking of hurting themselves, please reach out to the Suicide Hotline by simply dialing 988 or go to Lifeline where you can chat online. If you'd like to reach out to Ms. Navarro, her email isconnect4bal@gmail.com.

Stages of Change

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim discusses Prochasta and DiClemeti's Stages of Change model, originally developed for addictions, this model is extremely helpful in coaching, too. While counselors work with clients in all stages, coaches should only ethically work with clients from the preparation stage on. It is an important skill to determine where your clients are in their readiness to change. This information will help and it also informs good coaching strategies in each stage. If you are interested in a board certified coach (BCC) credential, Academy of Choice is a BCC-approved program. You may register here for our next in-person program here: www.academyofchoice.com or if you'd prefer a coach strategy call with Kim to determine the program that's best for you, then schedule time with her here.

Writing Your Best Marriage Story

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interviewed Dr. David and Mrs. Stuart Anderson, a couple who is giving back to couples. They have a great relationship and provide marriage retreats called the Intimate Marriage Academy to help couples increase the spiritual, relational and physical intimacy in their marriages. They also produce a podcast, called The Red Trust Marriage podcast. David tells the story of how it is named and Stuart talked about the six topics most couples have conflict over. David and Stuart are currently running a series on their podcast to cover these topics and what to do about them. They also reveal the "secret sauce" for a successful marriage. You can reach each, or both of them, at their respective websites: Impacting People and The Notebook Meeting.

This concludes Season 4 of Life = Choices; Choices = Life. We will return with Season 5 on April 6, 2023. You can use this time catching up on some episodes you may have missed and if you'd like to have a say in our content and podcast frequency, you may take our brief survey. Thank you in advance and see you in April.

Abusive Relationships

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing coach, relationship expert, podcaster, blogger and speaker Nigel Beckles who shared some information from his new book being published in May. Nigel knows first hand the challenges of being in an abusive relationship but he was destined to break, not repeat, the cycle. He researched, studied, did a lot of introspection and therapy and now, he works to educate and bring hope to others. In this interview, Nigel talks about how to know you're dealing with a narcissist, the type of person who might be lured into an abusive relationship, how to grow yourself so you won't and what to do if you want to get out. He rounds things out with some red flags for men and women alike, to watch for in potential partners. Nigel is the admin for the popular Facebook page, Reflections On Abusive Relationships (ROAR) Support Group, with over 20,000 members. His first book is available on Amazon and his new book about abusive relationships will be out in May, 2023. If you are looking to reach out to Nigel, please do so through his website, https://authornigelbeckles.com.

Dating Communication

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Vicki Lannerholm on her thoughts about the importance of communication in dating. Dr. Lannerholm is a professor and counselor who happens to be in the dating area herself. She shares her observations and talks about the three main challenges with communication in relationships. She cannot understate the importance of it. We all have beliefs and ideas in our head that no one can know unless we give voice to them. We tend to expect the person we're dating to just know what we think about things and the triggers we may have in relationships. Your dating partner is not living in your head. You must communicate what you're thinking so you can develop a deeper understanding. If you'd like to reach Dr. Lannerholm for counseling or coaching, contact her through her website at https://drvic.org.

February, the Month of Love

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0500

When most people think of February and love, they think of Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day is the holiday for couples. But what if you aren't part of a couple? Kim shares her personal story of how painful Valentine's Day was for her after the death of her husband and what she did about it. She reminds people to check in on those who may be grieving during the month of love, especially when they are grieving the loss of their partner, whether through death, divorce or decision. Single, when not by choice, can be an especially challenging status around Valentine's Day. She goes on to remind us of Man Day on February 12, Galentine's Day on February 13 and Singles Awareness Day on February 15. Whatever your relationship status, there are always ways to find love in February or any time of year. You can honor and appreciate the men in your life, get out and party with the women in your life or work on self-love during Singles Awareness Day. Love is in the air...

The Framework of Mental Freedom®

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I explain the BCT Framework of Mental Freedom and the three top mistakes people make that keep people from experiencing Mental Freedom. There is a very special offer if you listen to the end. To schedule a complimentary, risk-free 30-minutes Mental Freedom Strategy Session with Kim, book here.

How is Mental Freedom Different?

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about how Mental Freedom is unique and what you can expect from learning it. There is also a unique offer to experience Mental Freedom during this research phase. Check it out at https://courses.olverinternational.com/mfclt

The Why of Mental Freedom

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about my background and experiences that lead me to develop the Mental Freedom process. I discuss my motivation and the audacious goal I see for the future of Mental Freedom. Please listen to the end for a valuable, special offer. The application can be found at https://courses.olverinternational.com/mfclt

Mental Freedom® Research

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk with my friend and colleague, Sylvester Baugh, about the opportunity for counselor, coaches, and human service professionals to learn my new process of Mental Freedom for just $1, receive CEs and potential certification in Mental Freedom in exchange for using Mental Freedom with half of their new clients during a six-month period after learning it. I am working to achieve evidence-based practice and need some practitioners to help with the implementation. Check it out and share with anyone you think would be interested. You apply sign up here.

Goal Attainment 2023

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about her goal attainment process that she developed from studying many goal setting gurus, including Jack Canfield, Brian Tracy, Jim Rohn, Zig Zigler and more. She thoughtfully created a process including left- and right-brain activities for optimal success. As someone who has been successful accomplishing the things she sets out to do, Kim shares some of her tips and processes in this podcast. If you want more, you can find her Goal Attainment eBook here.

The Medication of Normal Human Experiences

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Angela Peacock, a woman who served in Iraq with the US Army and experienced multiple traumas there. She was sent to medical professionals, both military and civilian, and at one point, was on 18 different psychotropic medications. She began to wonder, "If I'm on all this medicine, why don't I feel good?" She realized her post-traumatic stress was a normal human response to the events in her life and didn't need to be medicated. She got help and began the excruciating process of tapering off her medication which took a total of 20 years from her diagnosis to being off all medication. During that time, she earned her MSW degree and currently works as a coach helping people come off their psychotropic medication safely without horrific withdrawal effects. Her journey is documented in the film, Medicating Normal. Listen to her story; it's a story of a real hero. To reach Angela professionally, visit her website at angiepeacock.com. To follow her healing journey and her van life on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram under the handle @beinghumanrv where as a human, she is experiencing everything on her way to living the best life anyone has ever lived. Go, Angie! You surely deserve it.

Real Talk with a Counselor

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview licensed counselor, Michaela Detrick, about mental health. Michaela is so grounded and easy to talk with, I imagine therapy with her is like talking with a friend. She covers what is most misunderstood about mental health and how the pandemic has impacted mental health. She talks about the balance between hurrying through counseling to get to a better place and taking the time to really explore what's happening with a person. This is true in grief, as well. Ms. Detrick shared the meaning of gatekeeping in therapy and how we are not proponents of that, believing clients have a right to all the information they can process. This is a delightful conversation with a delightful woman. Look for her book in the future, "Was I Supposed to Know This?"

Growing Students and Teachers in School

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Deb Cox about all she is doing to make her school, Nundah, in Australia, the best school it can be. She does this by growing herself in many leadership areas, including Choice Theory psychology. She has made the decision to take her school through the Glasser Quality School process, where she gives both teachers and students their voices as part of the overall school community. She is very forthcoming about ways she has given voice to students in remarkable ways. She is both ideologically and financially committed to helping teachers grow themselves to be better in personal and professional ways. You can reach Deb at dcox4@eq.edu.au and she will share two reports with you. She also extends an invitation to come to Nundah for a visit if you ever find yourself in Queensland. I highly recommend it.

Neurodiversity

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Margaret Parkes, a therapist with many years experience working with people who are atypical neurologically, such as people with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders. We discussed what neurodiversity is, how to identify it and the effects of non-diagnosis. Margaret talked about how neurodifference and depression and anxiety are often correlated and that those who are neurodifferent can be targets of bullying and the narcissist in relationships. She discussed some of the ways neurodiverse people compensate in self-destructive ways, as well as the level of intelligence and business success they sometimes enjoy. In the end, Margaret says it's up to the neurotypical to nurture the neuroatypical because they are the ones who are capable of solving problems the neurotypical can't. To contact Margaret, visit her website at https://margaretparkes.ie.

Choice Theory in Education

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Stephen Tracy about the implementation of Choice Theory in public schools. Dr. Tracy has quite an educational background and vast experience in the public school system. He became interested in Choice Theory after hearing Dr. Glasser speak and knew he wanted to know more. Steve has had the experience of using Choice Theory in his various superintendent roles and shares his experiences in how it helps with building relationships with students and faculty, helps with grades and teacher retention. He also theorizes why he believes so many teachers are leaving education. To contact him to learn more, email him at stephen7@gmail.com.

Relationships in Restorative Practices

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Jay Shannon, a supervisor of the YES program through Project Oz in Bloomington, IL. Jay uses a unique combination of Restorative Practices and Choice Theory to help some of the area's most underserved kids graduate from school on time with a plan for what they want to do beyond graduation. We talked about some parallels between Restorative Practices and Choice Theory and how Jay draws on both in his work with students, teachers, families and administration. Interwoven throughout the entire conversation was the supreme importance of developing connecting relationships. To reach Jay for more information, you can go through the Project Oz website at www.projectoz.org or call 309-827-0377.

Neuro-Nurturing

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Deborah McNelis about her concept of Neuro-Nurturing. Deb takes the complex topic of childhood brain functioning and development and breaks it down into usable, bite-size pieces of information to assist parents and others who want to help children become all they can be. She has four areas of focus, each of which is critically important. She says that you can find others who are experts in each of these areas but she focuses on the gestalt of brain development. When parents and others have realistic, developmental expectations for children and provide them with the building blocks they need for optimum development, the stress level on the child and the caregivers is greatly reduced. Listen in if you have a child, age 1 to 6, that you are interacting with. You can check out Deb's new website at https://www.braininsightsonline.com and can email her at deb@braininsightsonline.com.

Becoming Anti-Racist

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Sharon Hurley Hall, an anti-racism activist, author and educator. I was so impressed with the articles I read of hers, that I reached out to ask her to be a guest on the show and she said yes. It was a great conversation, talking about some of the terms being used in racism that people could be more thoughtful and deliberate about, such as global majority and intentionally disadvantaged. We discussed some of Sharon's pet peeves in the doing the work and what it means to be an active anti-racist, rather than a passive "not a racist." Sharon also shared some resources for people who want to educate themselves. She recommended The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson, Elizabeth Leiba's Black History and Culture Academy, and Sharon's own Anti-Racism Newsletter. She is also involved with the Diverse Leaders Group, working to create a world based on equity for all. You can also purchase her newly released book, I'm Tired of Racism on Amazon.

Using Your Gifts to Help Others

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0500

Soyica White is a multi-talented individual, who is on a journey of self-discovery. He knows many things, including hair styling and cosmetology, workforce development and encouraging others on their journeys. He is a man who volunteers his time and talents to help those in need. He recognizes time is his most valuable commodity and is uniquely tuned in to maximize the time he does have by being productive, not just busy. He is currently in a transition from being part of someone else's workforce to creating his own business and possibly writing a book (the jury's still out on that one). Tune in to hear Soyica's poignant brand of insight and wisdom, as he shares what he is learning during this lifetime thus far. He is still becoming... Check out his website at www.soyicastyles.com or contact him through LinkedIn.

Self-Examination for Self-Discovery

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview my friend and colleague, William Freeman. William is a veteran of both the Air Force and the Army and works with me as one of the Cadre of speakers for the military's Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. In this interview, he becomes incredibly authentic and vulnerable, sharing his journey of self-discovery which included taking a good look at himself and making the changes necessary to become the man he wants to be. It is an inspiring journey, touching on the topics of relationships, anxiety, psychotherapy and success. You won't want to miss this one! To contact William for more information, he can be reached by email at wfreeman4@gmail.com or phone at 717-418-7484.

The Psychological Management of Chronic Pain

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Nessren Ali about how she coaches people to psychologically manage their chronic pain. She works in a physical therapy office and has found that the patients who take advantage of her coaching services have a better outcome than those who don't. She uses analogies to help people understand that they don't have to become friends with their pain, nor do they need to make it the enemy. She speaks about the biopsychosocial model of pain management and the importance of educating patients about their pain process. If you, or someone you love suffers from chronic pain, listen in to this episode. If you would like to talk with Nessren or engage her services, you can send an email to me at info [at] olverinternational [dot] com and I will connect you with Nessren.

Choose Happy with Jill Liberman

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Jill Liberman, author of Choose Happy, Choose Happy 2 and Remember This. Jill understands that happiness is a choice and shares some great tips for making that choice every day. She also shares the difference between happiness and success, as well as some myths about happiness that may be keeping you from your happiness. Vist Jill's website at www.choosehappy365.com, check out her books, follow Choose Happy 365 on social media and buy some Choose Happy swag and apparel at https://www.choosehappy365.com/collections/ch-collection.

The Law of Assumption and more

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Rose Lawrence on her particular brand of coaching called, Living the Rosey Life. Dr. Rose is a licensed clinical professional counselor and ordained minister who works with her coaching clients on creating the life they want to live, with the power already inside them using the Law of Assumption. She shares her personal examples of putting this law to work and assures people that the Law of Assumption is operating all the time, whether or not you have it under control. Tune in to learn about harnessing this powerful tool for yourself. You can learn more about Rose on her website, www.roseylife.com, or email her at rose@roseylife.com. View her work on her YouTube channel and purchase her books, Wake the Hell Up Sleeping Beauty and Sexy Goddess , on Amazon. If you are interested in her Badass Confidence Course, just click the link.

Coaching in Iran

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk with Amir Pahlavnejad about coaching in Iran. He and Dr. Ali Sahebi have created the first coaching business in Iran where businesses are training their people in how to use coaching to supervise their direct reports. They are doing cutting edge work there. Additionally, they have translated and published several coaching books to have available for their students. Amir distinguishes between business and executive coaching, talks about how coaching got started in Iran and shares some of the lessons he's learned training coaches.

Your Health includes Your Mental Health

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Natasha Mosby, the brains behind the big Men's Mental Health Awareness event this past June in Las Vegas, NV. Nastasha is a licensed social worker and professor who has dedicated her life to helping others live their best lives. Because of this, she loves helping people, particularly women, learn to do real, legitimate self-care. As a mother herself, Ms. Mosby knows how important self-care is and how easy it is to allow it to drift to the bottom of your To Do list, if it even made it on the list at all! She talks about the importance of accountability and some of the challenges of men and women in prioritizing self-care. If you are challenged by finding the time to put self-care on your To Do list, then listen in.

Coaching with Algorithms

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Jeanette Schneider about her brilliant DearLiv app. Jeanette has completely reinvented herself from a highly successful career in finance to a start up entrepreneur who works with women in the areas of finance and mindset. After being on her own self-growth and discovery journey for the past ten years, she wants to shorten the learning curve for others. As a mother, Jeanette is committed to making mental health an unstigmatized topic so her daughter and her friends can grow up having normal conversations about how they are feeling and what's happening in their worlds.Jeanette has partnered with prominent helping professionals in the field, as well as, an app designer who used to work for Disney, to create a unique user experience. Together, they created a mental health app for everyone, that uses algorithms to get quality information and resources the user is searching for front and center for them. This app is currently available in the Apple store, but it's in a beta version. The updated app will be released August 30, 2022 so watch for it also in the Apple store. Additionally, she has a DearLiv podcast you can access at https://dearliv.com/library. If you want to follow Jeanette, she is on Instagram at DearLiv.app and TikTok as ms.jeanetteschneider. Her website is dearliv.com. Check her out; she's a force to be reckoned with.

Values-Based Servant Leadership

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Kimberly Hambrick, a leadership development and growth coach working with the new leader up to the C-suite. Kimberly is an Executive Director with the John Maxwell Leadership Team and serves on the President’s Advisory Committee. She believes in value-based, servant leadership and growing people, including herself. This was a conversation I enjoyed immensely. Listen in to hear a leader share her vulnerability, honesty and transparency to further her mission. Kimberly contributed a chapter to Sharon Brown's book, Singled Out: The Corporate Pandemic, available on Amazon. You can find her at www.kimberlyhambrick.com or as Kimberly Hambrick on LinkedIn.

Forward Revolution

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview my friend and marketer of @revenue about leadership. We talk about unimaginable loss and the club, of which we are both members, we never wanted to belong to. Marie talks about choices as her best tools for success, as well as the hardest choice she had to make in her life. The pandemic seriously changed things for Marie. She began homeschooling her daughter at that time because she didn't like what was happening in school and she discovered the "she-session," and made a plan to do something about it. We also touch on the topic of diversity and how Marie is currently focused on women and latinx but she is also educating herself on the differently-abled population and what might be going on with them. Marie is a person who cares and plans to make a difference. Join FWD Revolution in downtown Chicago to protest and stand up for women so we don't have to go backward in time. To find out more, join Marie Hale on social media and follow @fwdrevolution on all social media platforms. If you want to reach out to Marie directly, you can reach her at marie@fwdrevolution.com.

Leading by Example in Restorative Justice

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Shaniqua Jones, an extremely passionate woman from humble beginnings. This interview was such a breath of fresh air. Dr, Jones, or Dr. J, as she likes to be called, is a truly incredible woman. She was born a PK (preacher's kid) and did her share of rebelling as a teenager, which saw her on the streets, coping with many things teenagers are ill-equipped to manage but manage she did. For several years she led that life--her story is incredible. She found her way back to her family and to God. Education was her way out, and along the way, she became a specialist in Restorative Justice. She is an inspiration as she opens the very first online restorative justice high school in the world in September. You can't help but root for her. Listen in to an extraordinary story of a woman who is doing extraordinary things.

Leaders as Self-Evaluation Facilitators

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Patricia Robey about her role as an educational leader and supervisor of counselors in the field. Dr. Robey has been working in various capacities at Governors State University and a role she loves is supervising counselors. One of the tools she expertly utilizes is self-evaluation with co-verification. This is a skill few leaders possess. Most know how to provide their feedback about their subordinent's work, but few understand how to question that person to lead them to their own discoveries about their work. Listen to learn how to discriminate about the role you are playing as a leader. Is it most appropriate to be a teacher, counselor, consultant or coach? It depends. Dr. Robey will help you understand the determinants. For more on Choice Theory and Reality Therapy in the US, go to www.wglasser.com. If you live in another country, go to www.wglasserinternational.org/wgi/mo-directory to find a member organization near you. Explore the International Journal of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy. Dr. Robey's book, Contemporary Issues in Couples Counseling, can be purchased here and if you are interested in contacting Dr. Robey for coaching, counseling supervision or more information, you can reach her at patrobey@gmail.com.

Parenting with Elisabeth Stitt

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Elisabeth Stitt, named Coach's Foundation's 2021 Coach of the Year and the founder of Joyful Parenting Coaching. Lisabeth taught school students for 25 years, then she worked with parents and students in the school and eventually became a parenting coach. She is also a parent to her daughter, Julie. She shares a lot of information about how she came to be a recognized parenting coach, as well as her four reasons she thinks parenting is harder now than ever before. She also has a lot to say about over-scheduling your kids. If you like what Elisabeth has to say, you might be interested in the online workshop she has coming up on July 1, 2022 called, "How to Set Your Kids Up for Success so You Don't Need Consequences (and What Consequences to Use When You Do Need Them)." Just click on the title for more information and to register. She also has her book, Parenting as a Second Language available on Amazon or her website, www.elisabethstitt.com. If you'd like to contact her for more information, you may email her at: elisabeth@elisabethstitt.com.

Live Out Loud & Age Excellently

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Cheryl Woodson who is a doctor that sees many older women with some form of dementia and their caregivers. She knows medically, as well as personally, the enormity of this job. Her own mother suffered with dementia and Dr. Cheryl was her primary caregiver. She goes against conventional wisdom by saying there is no role reversal. That person is still your parent, even if they don't remember you. You need to afford them the respect they deserve when you are caring for them. However, there are safety issues you may need to be firm in addressing. Dr. Cheryl has tips about that and she emphasizes self-care throughout. You won't do your parent any good if you have nothing inside left to give. If you anticipate this situation, are already in it or have triumphed through it, this podcast has something for you. Click here

Amazon.com : cheryl woodson in books to find her non-fiction books and for her novel, What the Mirror Sees, click here: What The Mirror Sees: Robens, Teria: 9781514778944: Books (amazon.com). Her website is www.drcherylwoodsom.com and join Dr. Cheryl Woodson Community on Facebook.

Parenting; Biological, Fostering and Adoptive

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Regina Fike, parent extraordinaire. Regina and her husband Rick are parents to eight children, grandparents to 15 and have foster parented medically fragile children for 16 years. To say she is committed to the welfare of children doesn't do her justice. She has even parlayed her experience into a career as an excellent, impassioned speaker and Parent Educator. She shares many life experiences, including the suicide of her son. Her pain is evident but through it all, she culls lessons from the tragedies of her life. This is a woman who exemplifies commitment to children who have untold challenges in the most fragile time of their lives.

Setting Loving Boundaries with Claire Lerner

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview parenting expert Claire Lerner about setting boundaries with children so the parent remains in charge. The child has two choices, both of which are framed with neutrality and the child is left to choose the one they think is best. The parent is able to remove the power struggle by offering two good choices where they will get what they need and the child knows they will be following the established rules with either choice. She also shares some ideas about temperament and working with a sensitive child. You can find Claire at www.lernerchilddevelopment.com, where you will be able to sign up for her newsletter and click https://amzn.to/3NKkYiw to purchase her book, Why is My Child in Charge?

Mental Freedom® 2022

Thu, 26 May 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about how anyone can learn Mental Freedom® in just six sessions. One of the things I have discovered in over 30 years of working with people on improving their mindsets, overcoming their obstacles and accomplishing their goals is that we each are experts at creating chaos and pain in our lives that we think are caused by external events. We then tend to blame those events and never focus on their root causes, which means they will just be perpetuated. Mental Freedom helps people unlock the bars we have constructed around ourselves that keep us stuck so we can truly achieve the Mental Freedom we desire. Listen to the end for the special offer of $1200 off the regular price.

If you are interested in this offer please go to https://olverinternational.com/mental-freedom-2022/ and listen to the recording on the webpage.

This episode marks the conclusion of Season 3 of Life = Choices; Choices = Life. We will return with Season 4 on June 2, 2022.

Many Ways to Apply Mental Freedom®

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I speak with counselor, instructor, my colleague and friend, Bruce Davenport. Bruce was one of the first people to volunteer to try out my beta version of Mental Freedom® in a group coaching setting. As a Choice Theory enthusiast himself, Bruce was curious about my new program. In this interview, he discusses the many ways he has applied the principles of Mental Freedom® to his life. Bruce has a special fondness for working with married couples. As a happily married man for 40 years, he likes to share what he knows with couples who might be struggling. If you'd like to speak with him about your marriage, he can be reached at bruce@brucedavenport.com or you can see his website at brucedavenport.com.

Community Reintegration and Mental Freedom®

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I speak with a man who has had some interesting life experiences, one of which was being incarcerated for 11 years at the age of 16. Tony Kitchens didn't let that stop him from living the life he wanted, though. Instead, he took that experience and is dedicating his life to transforming the reentry experience to a community reintegration one. Tony understood that when he was finished serving his time, even though he was released from the bars that restricted his physical freedom, he had further to go to experience the mental freedom needed to be able to embrace opportunities available to him. He believes that without Mental Freedom®, people can be afforded opportunities but they don't really see them or believe they are for them. Tune in to hear Tony's amazing story and what he is doing to expand reentry to community reintegration. If you would like to talk with him further about his ideas, or offer him speaking opportunities, you can email him at tkitchens@mychangemychoice.com.

A Transplant Journey with Mental Freedom®

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I am so honored to get to speak with my friend, Sylvester Baugh, about his transplant journey to health and how he used Mental Freedom to help him navigate the process. Sylvester shares how important Mental Freedom® was in his health journey while waiting for a kidney transplant. Along the way, there were many obstacles to overcome, but overcome them he did! Friends and family, including myself, were preparing to say our goodbyes to this great human being but his faith never wavered. His story is incredible and will soon be out in his new book, Victory in the Wait. Watch for it to be released later in 2022.

Sylvester's passion is helping others and he is currently working with two men's groups: Legacy Living and Temple Talk, both of which are currently online. If you'd like to learn more, or register for, either of these groups, you can reach Sylvester via email at sylbaugh@gmail.com. I highly support and recommend his work.

One Teacher, One Student and a Mountain of Math

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I have the pleasure of talking with teacher, Evan Lent, who went on a self-discovery journal and took a student along with him. Evan was a new teacher working with a middle schooler who struggled a lot with math and resisted Evan's efforts to "teach" him. It wasn't until Evan read Bob Sullo's book, Activating the Desire to Learn, that Evan completely changed his thinking. He went from wondering how he could get "Vontrell" to learn math to looking at Vontrell's needs that if met, might inspire him to want to learn math and that's exactly what happened. If you would like to contact Evan Lent, he can be reached by email at elent17@gmail.com.

Librarian to Teacher to Coach

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode I interview an amazing teacher turned coach, Gretchen Cary. We talked about her early influences and the people who have influenced her perspectives on her education mindset and her current work coaching other educators. We also discussed lessons learned during Covid that have impacted her work in education. Gretchen also spoke of her renewed interest in Choice Theory in the classroom and her interest in Glasser's work. Finally, we discussed the next chapter in Gretchen's life, which consists of her part-time business called, still LIFE coaching. You can learn more here: www.createstilllife.com or you can email Gretchen at createstilllife@gmail.com.

Glasser Quality Schools

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Jan White, soon to be Dr. Jan White, an administrator at one of the Glasser Quality Schools, located in Norfolk, VA. She has been working there for the past 17 years, since the year it opened and she offers a unique perspective about what it means to become a Glasser Quality School, what it's like to work in one and the benefits that can be reaped when an administrator is willing to take a risk on training their staff to focus on creating quality, trusting relationships with the students. Magic can happen! To talk with Jan further, she is available by email at jwhite@stpcs.org

Lessons Learned from 4 Decades in Education

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Bryan Zeman about his vast experience and knowledge putting Choice Theory to work in a school that was divided on their approach. He was able to find the balance between the strict, rule-bound approach and the permission, anything goes approach to education, while helping students not only learn their academic curriculum but also learn important life skills about responsibility and getting along with others. Should you wish to contact Bryan about his experiences, he can be reached via email at bryan.z@shaw.ca.

Creating a Positive School Environment

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Don Parker, talking about his experiences as a principal setting up need-satisfying school cultures for both students and teachers. We also touched on some things he does for self-care so he can give others in his environment what they need and some of his ideas to reduce teacher attrition. If you'd like to know about him, attend his next speaking engagement or hire him to speak at your event or professional development opportunity, check out his website at www.drdonparker.com.

The Dating Game Shouldn't Be a Game

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk with counselor Vicki Lannerholm about her personal experiences and lessons learned after jumping into the dating arena after a 10-year absence. We discuss the fear, fun, obstacles, and of course, that all-important communication. Listen in to hear about how to turn the fear into fun and just lean into the process without expectations.

Self-Love

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

It's hard to give away what you don't possess. In this episode, I discuss the importance of self-love, the things that get in a way of loving yourself, and the model I use in my book, Choosing Me Now, for taking a lifelong journey toward becoming a need-satisfying person to yourself. This allows you to create a healthy, loving relationship with yourself. Once you have authentic self-love, you can't help but share that love with others. Choosing Me Now is available wherever books are sold.

Relationships: Single, Dating, Committed/Married, Ethical Non-Monogamy

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about the many different relationship statuses you may find yourself in and discuss best practices for each. You won't find any gimmicky formulas in this about how to "get" the guy or girl. I don't find relationships to be a contest to be won. However, there are best-practices I have discovered during my decades of helping people with their relationships. Whether you're single, dating, committed, married or engaging in ethical non-monogamy, there's something in here for you. If you'd like to book a complimentary 20-minute coaching session with me to discuss anything in the podcast, you can book a session here.

Growing into Couplehood

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Rob Maurer and Conry Davidson about their 6-year marriage and 8-year relationship. They are quite candid about the challenges they've overcome on their way to a happy marriage. This is the second marriage for them both and their first ones weren't nearly as satisfying. What makes the difference? They talk about several things: taking time off after their last relationship for serious self-reflection and growth, communication, foundations they share, humor, great sex amd having an objective guide to help them negotiate the journey. I was privileged to work with both Rob and Conry as their relationship coach. If you are looking for someone to talk with about your relationship, I'm happy to serve as your objective guide and coach. I do a complimentary session to assess if we will be able to do good work together, while you are also assessing your fit with me. If you'd like to schedule a complimentary session, you can do so here. This is a podcast of hope that you, too, can build a relationship that works for you.

Mindfulness with Dr. Tim Pedigo

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Tim Pedigo about mindfulness. We discuss what exactly mindfulness is and its relevance to our lives, the difference between acting and responding and whether you learn to be mindful or you're born with it (Hint: it's a bit of both). Tim shares how mindfulness is related to personal and the role shadow work plays in one's personal growth. It you would like to talk with Dr. Pedigo more about this topic, you can reach him at tpedigo@govst.edu.

Accessing Happiness Right Now

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Teresa Greco, Canada's Happiness Coach. Teresa coaches people to access happiness any time in any situation. You can hear the happiness in her voice as I conduct this interview. She shares her own personal happiness journey (Hint: it wasn't always happy). She talks about the misconceptions people have about happiness and shares some of the principles and practices that lead to true inner happiness. She also has an event that's in just two days, Soul Livity's Empower 2022, just go to www.https://soulivity.com/empower2022 for more information and to register. All of Teresa's shows can be found on The Steps to Happiness Show on Soul Livity TV at www.soulivity.com or on YouTube as Soul Livity Magazine. Her social media handles are: Instagram: TeresaGreco_stepstohappiness; Facebook: Steps to Happiness with Teresa Greco; and her website is: www.teresagreco.ca.

Finding Your Way with the Gentry GPS

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I speak with Marcus "Dr. Respect" Gentry about his new GPS system for self-discovery. We talk about what is needed for authentic self-discovery, what may be a barrier and how education can help. Marcus shares his own self-discovery during the past two years, especially around the death of his father. Marcus has a wide range of talents. Not only is he an excellent speaker, but he is also a vocal artist, actor and creator of merchandise. You can hear him performing a medley of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches here: https://youtu.be/cy_fo8i6iO8. If you are interested in hiring him for speaking, you can do so at marcusgentry.com. And to find his music and merchandise, you can locate those things here: gentryexclusives.com.

Living a Miraculous LIfe with Marci Shimoff

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0500

Marci has quite a story. She came into this world with some existential angst, got all five of her goals and was still unhappy. So what did she do? She researched happiness and interviewed people who were unconditionally happy and started to do what they did. In doing so, Marci not only wrote her bestselling, Happy for No Reason, but she also found happiness within herself. And if that's not enough, for the past nine years, she has been teaching everyday people how to live miraculous lives. Of course, miracles are all around us everyday but she teaches how to see them and then, multiply them in your life. Listen in to hear the tips she shares about the 4 things that stop you from living a miraculous life and about her free eBook. You can learn more about Marci and her yearlong program atwww.happyfornoreason.comorwww.youryearofmiracles.com.

Leadership Using One's Heart, Head and Hands

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview author, Charles Gill, about his ideas regarding Leadership. We discuss his book, The Path to True Leadership and the many roles that contribute to leadership. Charles agrees about the importance of relationships in leadership and recognizes the importance of engaging the head, heart and hands in true leadership. He recognizes the importance of spirituality in his success. Listen in to learn about how his military service, athleticism, education and spirituality all inform his brand of leadership over several genres.

Leadership in 2021 and Beyond

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Tina Lee Odensky-Zec about leadership in today's climate. "Leaders make things happen. Leaders get other people to make things happen with them, through them and for them." is a lesson she learned early on from her first mentor, her father. She talks about leaders needing to discriminate when to have self-pride and when to check their egos, when to be strong and when to be empathetic. She discusses the special challenges of people who used to be a part of the team, who have been promoted to being a leader. reframing the Great Resignation to the Great Transformation, and why it's important for leaders to have their own coach. Tina Lee shares three powerful executive coaching questions that she is using to help leaders self-evaluate. To contact her, please go to www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lee-odinsky-zec-phd-8102758 and connect and send her a message.

EQ and Leadership

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Mark Tovar, counselor and executive coach. Mark has a ton of education, certifications and experience that makes him a great choice for an executive coach. Today, I talked with him about how he helps leaders develop and improve their Emotional Intelligence to become an even better leader. Even when leaders may think everything is going well, improving their EQ (emotional quotient) could help them accomplish their goals even faster than usual. Emotional Intelligence helps leaders tune into their people to be able to lead them in a way they will want to follow.

Leading with Relationships

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview leader, Kent Provost, from Governors State University in the greater Chicago area. Kent has been a leader in a variety of settings and he shares a wealth of information he has learned along the way. He talks about his own leadership style, some challenges he's overcome, mistakes he's learned from and his secret sauce for increasing buyin to his agenda. If you want to reach Kent to speak further, you can email him at kentprovost@hotmail.com.

Leadership Coaching with Dr. Ruby Powell

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview leadership coach, Dr. Ruby Powell, who travelled an interesting path to get where she is but finds herself exactly where she wants to be. Ruby has multi-talents and skills, an eclectic educational and experiential background. She puts those things to use in service to helping others achieve their goals and dreams. She speaks of clarity, discipline, sacrifice, assessment, adjusting and accomplishing. Ruby is a great person to hire when you want something that seems out of reach, are committed to the goal and just need someone skilled and neutral to help you plot your path and hold you accountable. To reach Ruby, you can contact her through:

Website: www.rubyepowell.com

Facebook: Dr. Ruby E. Powell & Associates, LLC

Instagram: dr.repassociates

LinkedIn: Dr. Ruby E. Powell

Mental Illness & Incarceration

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview social worker, Valerie Wise, about the correlation between mental illness and incarceration in the Black and Brown communities. Valerie recommends a biographical book by L. C. Bruce on the topic-- Fit for Trial: Mental Illness, the Law and Family Loss coming January 17, 2022. We discuss the effects of generational trauma and systemic racism that is still active today. We shine the light on the problem and ask each listener to do what they can around their own moral compass of what is right. Valerie recommends and belongs to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). For further discussion or to speak on the topics, Valerie can be reached at her website: www.valeriedwise.com, Email: lifedancer1@comcast.net or Phone: 708-269-8063. She is eager to speak with the listeners of this podcast.

Being a Sib of a Person with a Disability

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Shruti Tekwani about what her life was like as a sibling to someone with a disability. One word she used to describe it was lonely. There are so many things that people with so-called "normal" childhoods would never have to consider. Parents' attention is always taken up with the child with the disability. Simply leaving the house can be an ordeal. Your life is quite different from your friends and so many other things. If you'd like to learn more about what life is like for sibs of a person with a disability, Shruti shares candid conversation about love, commitment and challenges. If you would like to speak with her further, her email address is shrutitekwani@gmail.com Shruti belongs to organizations designed to support sibs, as they call themselves, as they process their journeys and deal with the myriad of emotions they experience but don't often get to talk about or process: the Massachusetts Sibling Support Network at https://www.masiblingsupport.org and the Sibling Support Project at www.siblingsupport.org.

How to Connect with & Respect People with Disabilities

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk with Barb Zablotney, who sustained a spinal cord injury when she was just 21-years-old. She spent a decade in a very dark place. Her mother passed away and she lost her relationship with her fiance, but then she became Miss Wheelchair Pennsylvania. This wasn't a beauty pageant, although Barb is certainly beautiful. It was an honor bestowed on her for her ideas, ability to articulate those ideas and her dedication to advocacy for the community she finds herself a part of--the disability community. Barb is a model for Team Torrid, was featured in a commercial for the UPMC Health Plan, lobbied politicians in Harrisburg and D.C. and much more!

In this podcast, Barb reveals her goal of independence and how she wishes people would treat her. She also talked with me about what she wants abled-bodied people to know about the disabilities community. She has written an article on accessible parking here and recommended the book, Demystifying Disability by Emily Ladau for people interested in knowing more than we could possibly cover in a 30-minute podcast.

If you would like to learn more from Barb, you can follow her on social media: Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Diversity is a Journey of Courage & Commitment

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview my friend and colleague, Sylvester Baugh. He is a speaker, coach and trainer, as well as the co-author of Leveraging Diversity at Work, the author of Puzzled but Not Confused and the forthcoming title, Victory in the Wait. We discuss Sylvester's journey to embracing diversity, why diversity is important to understand, the impact it's had on his life, and Choice Theory's impact on his diversity journey.

Young Men & Mental Health

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Max Lestage, a master's level Youth Development Counselor for the state of Pennsylvania. Max takes us on his journey from growing up in the Bronx, NY to his well-rounded experiences in mental health in a small city in PA. Max has worked with men on probation and parole, adolescents in a group home setting, clients in a drug & alcohol rehab facility and now, aducidated young men in a state residential program. Max talked about his own struggles with depression and anxiety, as well as his coping skills that he shares with the young men he currently works with. We conclude with what people going into the field need to know.

Thanatology, Covid and College Students

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan, a college professor and department head of counseling in Malaysia, about mental health among college students. We speak about suicide, anxiety, loneliness, Covid, sexual assault and relationship drama. Anasuya believes the college campus is a microcosm of the larger society so what we see in college students reflects the world at large.

You can reach Anasuya on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/anasuyajj), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasuya-jegathevi-jegathesan-9ba73582) or WhatsApp (+60 12-325 7397).

Stress-Less with Felicia Houston

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Felicia Houston, licensed clinical professional counselor, speaker and mental health consultant. Felicia's signature workshop is called, "Stress-Less: For Women Only!" and in this episode we talk a lot about stress. Felicia lays the foundation with the definition and causes of stress, the effect stress has on the body, and early warning signs. She shares her most stressful situation this year and how she dealt with it. We discussed the stress of the pandemic and how to manage it and ways to generally alleviate stress. Felicia also shared her list of resources for stressing less, including the adult coloring book she created. To contact Felicia, call 708-915-6870 or email her at fhouston@ingalls.org.

Suicide with Dr. Richard Doss

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview clinical psychologist, Richard Doss, about suicide and how to help. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in the US and the third leading cause between the ages of 15 to 24. Dr. Doss calls it an epidemic. We discuss what are the leading causes of suicide, the signs to look for, what to do to help and something you probably don't want to do. If you or someone you love is thinking about suicide, the suicide hotline number is 1-800-273-8255. To contact Dr. Doss directly, visit his website at StrongMindsInstitute.com, email him at richard@strongmindsinstitute.com or call him at 1-866-204-9390.

#suicide #suicideintervention #suicideprevention #suicidehotline

Parenting and Inner Peace with Mary Allen

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, I interview Mary Allen, America's Inner Peace Coach and author of The Power of Inner Choice. We discuss the biggest factor contributing to parents' stress, frustration and depression, the most important relationship interfering with your inner peace, how to calm the chaos and regain inner peace, Mary's six simple questions to transform overwhelm, frustration or turmoil in minutes, and finally the 3 big MUSTS of parenting. To contact Mary, visit her website www.lifecoachmary.com or find her on social media.

#innerpeace #parenting #lifeequalschoices #MaryAllen and any others you find appropriate

Becoming the Parent You Want to Be with Barnes Boffey

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Barnes Boffey, long time practitioner of Choice Theory psychology, about parenting. We discuss his new children’s book, Climb On Simon, and its relevance, particularly for kids who suffer from not believing in their own value and worth. We talk about how to survive and thrive in the pandemic, the basic formula for happiness, living your best life and how to become the parent you want to be. If you are interested in contacting Barnes, you may do so by email at Barnes.boffey@gmail or through his website at www.barnesboffey.com.

Mentoring through Infertility

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Bia Dimovski about her journey with infertility. She shares what she learned through her process and ideas for how she helps other women and couples with theirs. Bia's is a story of hope so if you are struggling with infertility, you will want to listen in. If you want to contact Bia, she can be reached at hello@biljanabia.com or by phone at +1 773-453-6771. Her website is https://biljanabia.com. Check her out!

#infertility, #hope,

Parenting with Phil Lynn

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview board certified coach, Phil Lynn, about his ideas on parenting. Phil has some training and had studied William Glasser's Choice Theory psychology, so if you recognize some Choice Theory in this interview, don't be surprised. Phil and I discuss how to "get" your kids to obey you, dealing with sibling rivalry, how to keep your kids from "misbehaving," developing win/win/win solutions when you and your kids are in conflict and how and why to establish your own parental boundaries. If you are interested in speaking with him or attending one of his parenting workshops, see his website at www.phillynn.com or www.thetreasgroup.com.

#ChoiceTheory #parenting #settingboundaries #parentchildrelationship #podcast #lifeequalschoices

Parenting with Sue Kranz

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Choice Theory parenting coach, Sue Kranz. Sue is a phenomenal parenting coach, having raised six children of her own as a single parent and is now weighing in on some stellar ideas for grandparenting, as well. In this interview, we discuss how to help children with frustration, to self-regulate and to help out around the house. Sue also has some great insight about teaching children about thinking and delineating between helping and rescuing. We also talk about the distinction between compliance and cooperation and how to set your child up to keep track of you instead of the other way around.

#ChoiceTheory #parenting #lifeequalschoices #helpingvsrescuing

Coaches & Video with Sheryl Plouffe

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview video strategist, Sheryl Plouffe, on the importance of using video to market your coaching business. There are many coaches out there and buyers want to have a sense of how they are hiring ahead of time. Referrals help, but so does video where you are being your authentic self so clients get to know the real you. Listen in to here what Sheryl has to say. She has a world of expertise in this field and can help take your coaching business to the next level.

Tips on Coaching from Relationship Coach, Nigel Beckles

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview author, podcaster and relationship coach, Nigel Beckles. We discuss his book titled, How to Avoid Making the Big Relationship Mistakes. He also shares his advice to coaches about helping clients set realistic goals and how to set realistic goals for yourself and evaluate how well you met them. You can find Nigel on social media, YouTube or at his website, authornigelbecklespodcasts.com.

Coaching with Conchetta Jones

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Conchetta Jones, Certified Personal Development and Confidence coach on her path to becoming a coach. Conchetta went from a disbeliever in coaching to becoming one herself. We talk about self-care, how to choose the right coach for you and remaining coachable. You can find her at www.satwoman.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/conchetta.jones. Be sure to tell her you heard her here on the Life = Choices; Choices = Life Podcast.

Coaching Skills and Characteristics

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, I discuss the new information about coach skills and characteristics put out by the Board Certified Coach(BBC) program for inclusion in their approved coaching programs. Academy of Choice is one of those programs. Check us out at academyofchoice.com.

#BCCprograms #coachingprograms #coachingskills #coachcharacteristics #mentalfreedom #academyofchoice

Mental Freedom in Marriage with Tony & Cynthia

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Tony Kitchens, a Mental Freedom advocate, and his wife, Cynthia. Tony is certified in Choice Theory and also took my Mental Freedom group coaching sessions. He in turn, taught what he learned to his wife. They both talk about their individual accomplishments with Mental Freedom, as well as what they have noticed and appreciated in each other during this transformation. They also explore how it has helped their marriage.

Please know this is the last podcast of the season and I'll be taking two weeks off. Life = Choices; Choices = Life will return on July 29. I'm looking forward to it... talk with you then.

Mental Freedom with Anthony Freire

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview a student of Mental Freedom, Anthony Freire, who also happens to own a counseling practice in New York City. Even though he's a therapist himself, he shares how he was able to apply Mental Freedom in his own life, in supervision with the therapists he supervises and in the lives of his clients. If you'd like to get in touch with Anthony, you can email him at info@thesohocenter.com or call him at 917-592-2345.

#podcast #lifeequalschoices #KimOlver #mentalfreedom

Mental Freedom Interview with Teacher, Christine Duffield

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview a Choice Theory colleague from Australia, Christine Duffield. Christine has been a Choice Theory enthusiast for several years and she participated in one of my beta groups for the Mental Freedom program. Christine talks about her personal experience with Mental Freedom and how she is teaching the concepts to her high school students in a psychology elective course.

#KimOlver #Lifeequalschoices #MentalFreedom #ChoiceTheory #HighSchoolTeacher #teaching #psychology

An interview with counselor, Pam Slakely, about Mental Freedom

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Choice Theory counselor, Pam Slakely, about her involvement with Mental Freedom both as an individual taking the coaching program and as a counselor using the elements in her counseling.

#Lifeequalschoices #KimOlver #MentalFreedom #Choice Theory #counseling #coaching

Discipline vs. Punishment

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode I discuss the difference between discipline and punishment in school and how punishment doesn't really work unless all we want is compliance. When you are looking to help your students learn and grow, a new discipline is needed. Teachers aren't trained to be counselors to their students but they are often called upon to fill a similar role. The simplicity of helping students self-evaluate can help teachers gain a framework for providing students what they need, without a counseling degree.

#teaching #education #selfevaluation #lifeequalschoices #disciplinevpunishment #effectivediscipline

Interview with Steve Hammond, a Glasser Quality School founder

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Steve Hammond, a principal of a Glasser Quality School (GQS) in Norfolk, VA. Steve’s GQS is also a Catholic school where he trains his teachers in Glasser’s Choice Theory ideology. Steve and I talk about his school, his journey to becoming a GQS and some very poignant stories of students along the way. If you have ever wondered about the magic of what Choice Theory applied in a school setting can achieve, then you need to listen to this episode. To contact Steve directly, email him at claritycom100@gmail.com. Steve is also a faculty member of William Glasser International and can do training at your school.

Interview with Lois DaSilva-Knapton on Educational Leadership

Thu, 27 May 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Dr. Lois DaSilva-Knapton about her journey from paraprofessional to school superintendent. Lois learned that her love is in special education and she is currently working as the head of special education in New Hampshire. She was exposed to Choice Theory early in her career and says it definitely shaped her as a leader and helped her to overcome the day-to-day stress from running a school system, and more specifically during COVID restrictions. Watch for her forthcoming book: Overcoming: from Tragedies to Triumphs, her personal story packed with Choice Theory solutions for overcoming many of life's challenges. Lois can be reached at loisknapton100@gmail.com.

#podcast #educationalleadership #education #special education #lifeequalschoices

Interview with Ivan Honey and the Get Happier Project

Thu, 20 May 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Ivan Honey, psychologist, Choice Theory Enthusiast and creator of the Get Happier Project. Ivan and I speak about his invention, The Get Happier Project, and how it is used in schools around the globe to support teachers, parents and students in learning their own psychology so they can make better choices and live happier. Check it out and if you want to continue the conversation with Ivan, you can do that from his website: www.gethappier.net.

#gethappier #IvanHoney #lifeequalschoices #choicesequallife #GlasserQualitySchools #choicetheory

Coaching as a Leadership Tool

Thu, 13 May 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss leadership and how coaching can help a leader be that leader with the right balance of support and challenge. Asking employees self-evaluation questions, rather than providing your one-sided feedback is more effective in gaining what you really want, a satisfied, engaged employee. If you would be interested in more on leadership, check out my Empowered Leadership eBook.

KimOlver #LifeequalsChocies #Coaching #leadership #ChoiceTheory

Leadership with Michael Sherlock

Thu, 06 May 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Michael Sherlock about her business and her ideas and concepts about leadership. Michael is quite entrepreneurial-minded and finds ways to take seemingly random events in her life and find ways to create business opportunities from them. She has also developed forward-thinking ideas about what will be needed from leaders post-COVID which make so much sense. If you are a leader, you owe it to yourself to listen to what Michael has to say. For more information, check out her website at shockyourpotential.com.

#leadership #shockyourpotential #MichaelSherlock #KimOlver #podcast #LifeequalsChoices #leadership101 #leadershiplessons

Adoption Leadership with Chester Jackson

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Chester Jackson about his life's purpose and direction in the field of adoption. Chester was invited into the world of adoption, as an unqualified adoption worker because of a connection to his friend, only to learn at the age of 33 that he, himself, was adopted and he never knew. He found answers and healing in the work he did and displays excellent leadership skills in the field. You are going to love his story. I know I did.

#adoption, #family, #leadership, #lifeequalschoices, #kimolver, #podcast

Interview with Francesco Bazzocchi on Leadership in Sports

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview my friend and colleague, Francesco "Frenchie" Bazzocchi. Frenchie is a retired school teacher who loves educating and coaching hockey. Having played the sport many years himself, he is passionate about coaching players to reach their highest potential and helping coaches learn how to do the same. Frenchie is certified in Choice Theory and is also an instructor so his unique brand of coaching uses the best Choice Theory principles to lead his teams to greatness. If you're interested in contacting Frenchie to enroll in his virtual program for players or for some advice on coaching your team, you can reach him through his website, www.bazzocchiconsulting.com.

#leadership #coaching #hockeycoach #virtualtraining #bazzocchiconsulting #lifeequalschoices #choicetheory #williamglasser

Choice Theory Leadership in a D&A Treatment Facility

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode I interview Marsha Zablotney, a counselor turned manager in the D&A treatment field. I have known Marsha over 15 years, all of which she spent managing D&A treatment programs--two halfway houses and a residential treatment facility. Marsha learned Choice Theory and its safe to say it rocked her world in terms of case conceptualization and rethinking the policies, mainly punishments, that were in place in her programs. She took immediate action and aligned her policies and procedures to Choice Theory principles and never looked back. We discuss the benefits and payoffs of becoming a Choice Theory leader in this environment. If you would like to contact Marsha for training or consultation in Choice Theory, you can email her for an appointment at miabailee@gmail.com.

#choicetheory #addiction #leadership #choicetheoryleadership #drugandalcohol #podcast #lifeequalschoices #KimOlver #MarshaZablotney #drugandalcoholtreatment

Interview with Reality Therapist, Ron Mottern

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Reality Therapist, Ron Mottern about his unique brand of therapy, integrating Reality Therapy with martial arts and hypnosis, for ultimate effectiveness. Ron says Reality Therapy has never failed him in a variety of settings. He is a prolific writer with many publications in the International Journal of Choice Theory & Reality Therapy over the years, as well as writing several books available on Amazon. If interested, you can reach Ron at ron.mottern@gmail.com. His website is motterninstitute.com.

Hashtags: #Choice Theory, #Reality Therapy, #podcast, #KimOlver #basicneeds #RonMottern #basicneeds #caringhabits #deadlyhabits #substanceabuse #mentalhealth #counseling

What Does Mental Health Look Like?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss what is wrong with our current model of mental health as a medical "illness" and discuss instead what it is, what positive mental health looks like and touch on the possibilities for treating those with mental distress differently. Some of the references mentioned in the podcast are: Terry Lynch's The Depression Delusion, Dr. Peter Breggin's Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal and Your Drug May Be Your Problem, Peter Goetzsche's book Deadly Medicines and Organized Crime and the article “Toward a New Definition of Mental Health.”

Hashtags: #mentalhealth #mentalillness #trauma #mentaldistress #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthrecovery #mentalhealthwarrior #mentalhealthawarness #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthstigma #mentalhealthissues #MentalHealthAdvocacy #PeterBreggin #terryLynch #PeterGoetzsche #KimOlver

Post Traumatic GLOW

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the concept of Post Traumatic GLOW. I begin by explaining how I consider Post Traumatic Stress a normal response to an extraordinary event in a person's life and anything but a disorder. Each criteria for diagnosis is processed and explained in a normalizing way. Then the concept of balance and GLOW are introduced so people suffering with the stress of trauma can see hope and understand one way to move beyond the devastating event.

#posttraumaticstress #posttraumaticstressdisorder #posttraumaticglow #posttraumaticstressrecovery #KimOlver #militarylife #trauma #traumarecovery #traumatology #Traumatize #Traumatic #traumatherapy #traumasurvivor #traumatized #traumas #traumatherapist #traumalife #traumahealing

Managing a Life-Threatening Illness with Choice

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Jeff Steedman, a Choice Theory enthusiast and counselor in Australia following his second bout of cancer, he previously had thyroid cancer. I was so impressed with how Jeff used the concepts of Choice Theory in his recovery the first time and wanted to have him share his process this time around. Jeff's honest, straight-forward accounting is an inspiration for many who are coping with things in their life that they can't control.

hashtag: #mentalhealth #choicetheory #lifeequalchoices #prostatecancer #surgery #surgeryrecovery #prostatecancersurvivor

Bias in Artificial Intelligence with Joe Santana

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Joe Santana, Chairman of The CDO PowerCircle, a research, training, and coaching association. Joe is also the creator and host of the ERG PowerTalk podcast and author of Supercharge Your ERGs. Currently, he's working on a book on how non-technical leaders can govern automation and AI. Joe and I are discussing diversity and the built-in bias of artificial intelligence.

hashtags: #artificialintelligence #artificialintelligenceai #diversity #inclusionmatters #equity #diversityandinclusion #diversitymatters #prejudice #JosephSantana #KimOlver #LifeequalsChoices

A Conversation about Privilege with Jhmira Alexander

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Jhmira Alexander about her work with Public Narrative, the concept of #whiteprivilege and the idea that the solution is going to involve investment in communities of color and white people being willing to take a look at systemic barriers to success.

#diversity #inclusionmatters #equity #whiteprivilege #diversityandinclusion #diversitymatters #BlackLivesMatters #BlackLives #conversations #inclusionrevolution #whiteprivilegeisreal #kimolver #publicnarrative

Diversity Stairway

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the stairway people need to climb to move from conflict over difference to appreciation of difference. It's a journey, not a leap, with intermediary steps along the way.

Diversity, Choice Dynamics and Family Dynamics

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview coach, Buddy Thornton. Buddy applies the concepts of Dr. William Glasser's Choice Theory and his knowledge of bias in diversity to help parents build stronger relationships with their children. If, after listening, you'd like to contact Buddy, you can email him at buddypscapro@gmail.com or visit his website at www.bctmediationsplus.com.

#diversity #relationshipcoach #choicetheory #equity #lifecoachingtips #diversityandinclusion #diversitymatters #relationshipadvice #relationshipcoaching #parentingskills #relationshipissues #parentinghacks #coachingforlife #freedomofchoice #parentingskills #parentingteens #coachingworks #selfimprovementdaily #selfimprovements #empowermentcoaching #choiceschoices #choicesmatter #lifeequalschoices #coachingforsuccess

Uncovering and Eliminating Self-Sabotage

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss what causes self-sabotage, how to recognize it and what to do about it. If you believe you are being stopped by self-sabotage and would like coaching around this issue, check out the coaching packages at The Relationship Center.

#personalgrowth #selfdiscovery #personalgrowthjourney#coachingtips#emotionalsupport#lifecoachingtips#changemylife#changingthenarrative#hopeforthefuture#selfdiscoveryjourney#selfsabotage#coachingforwomen#coaching #forlife#traumatized#youcanhealyourlife#fixmylife#healingtrauma#Iamstronger#lifeishardsometimes#empowermentofwomen#lifecoaching101#stressrelieve#mentalfreedom#coachingworks

Follow the Path that's Coming to You

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim discusses the benefits of giving up the idea of fighting, pushing and making things happen to rather aligning yourself with what the Universe has in store for you by following the path that's opening for you and checking your level of excitement for it.

hashtags: #selfgrowth #balancedlife #selfdiscovery #selfgrowthjourney #personalgrowthjourney #trustinyourself #selfcarequotes #selfcarehacks #trustthejourney #changemylife #coachingforwomen #fixmylife #happinessisaninsidejob #changingthenarrative #gratitude365 #youcanhealyourlife #selfdiscoveryjourney #mentalfreedom #empowermentofwomen #forgivenessheals #lifeimporementdaily #choosingmenow #kimolver #relationshipwithself

So, You Want to Write a Book?

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the process of writing a book from research through writing, to production and publication to marketing. There are many shortcuts that can be taken along the way, but each shortcut reduces the likelihood of success for your book. Join InsideOut Press' Writers' Group that I facilitate at www.insideoutpress.com/writers-group and check out their publishing packages.

hashtags: #writersgroup #writer #writeabook #selfpublishing #selfpublishedauthor #selfpublisher #selfpublishedbook #writeabook #

10 Simple Secrets to Being Liked by Almost Anyone

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview fellow podcaster and therapist, Dick Goldberg. Dick has been a psychotherapist for over 40 years. He has also been a PBS producer and host, a public radio host, a current podcaster and the author of several books. Dick discusses the 10 secrets he has discovered for increasing your likeability factor.

To contact Dick, he can be reached at DickGoldbergRadio.com.

The Joys and Challenges of Grandparenting

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss how grandparenting can be the best gig in the world when conditions are ideal or it can be a large source of pain for some. We dive into six situations that might be causing pain--a child with physical or developmental challenges, when you disapprove of the parenting your grandchildren receive, when you don't get along with one or both of the parents, when unknown, unclear or mismatched expectations exist, when you must supplement your child's income so your grandchild gets what they need and when you have committed to taking physical and legal custody of your grandchild. Mental Freedom coaching can help. If interested, click bit.ly/MFCoaching. I also look at all the joys of grandparenting.

#grandparenting #podcast #boundaries #parentinglife #healthyboundaries #consequences #setboundaries #parentingcoach #boundariesarehealthy #parentandchild #KimOlver #MentalFreedom

Step-Parenting with Sylvester Baugh

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk with Sylvester Baugh about step-parenting. Sylvester Baugh has been a stepparent for almost the entire life of his step-daughter who is now in her mid-twenties. He takes the concept of step-parenting and turns it on its head with Step-Up Parenting. He talks about the forever commitment that is made to a child, regardless of what happens in the adult relationship. Sylvester is also a coach, certified in Choice Theory and a Mental Freedom Practitioner. If you are a step-parent, you might want to check this out.

#parenting #parentingtips #parentinglife #parentingadvice #parenting101 #parentinggoals #parentinghacks #parentingskills #parenthood #parentingdoneright #parentslove #parentinghelp #Parentingtip #parentingcoach #parentingpodcast #parentinghack #parentandchild #stepparenting #parentingbloggers #parentingwins #KimOlver #SylvesterBaugh

Parenting around Gaming and Screen Time

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss today's challenges of parenting children who are enamored with their electronic devices. There is always a conflict because your children love their screens and they can provide parents much needed time without their children's demands for attention. On the other hand, parents are often concerned about their children's behavior when they have excessive gaming and screen time. There is a middle ground. Listen in to determine the approach you would like to take with your family. You can get examples of negotiating from my eBook titled, Empowerment Parenting, available at bit.ly/EmpowermentParenting or on Amazon.

#videogameaddict #parentingtips #parentinglife #parenting101 #parentinggoals #parentingadvice #parentinghacks #parentingskills #parentproblems #parentslife #parentproblems#setboundaries #parentinghelp #Parentingtip #parentingteens #parentingcoach #screentime #parentingpodcast #boundariesarehealthy #parentinghack #parentandchild #parentingwins #parentingteenagers #EmpowermentParenting #ChoiceTheory

Choice Theory Parenting with Sue Kranz

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I speak with Sue Kranz, a knowledgeable, Choice Theory parenting expert. She first used Choice Theory concepts to help herself with being a single parent to six kids, with one of them exhibiting some seriously challenging behavior. Once she saw how these ideas worked for herself in her situation, she started reaching out to help other parents in similar situations. Above everything, Sue has learned the relationship you create with your children is most important. It’s amazing what happens when we stop trying to control our children, and instead set boundaries for ourselves that we control, not setting boundaries for our children that they may or may not follow. This was brilliant! If you are interested in learning more about or contacting Sue, her website is: sanerparenting.ca. You can also read her parenting articles at thepost.on.ca and search for Sue Kranz and all her articles come up. I love reading her stuff. And if you’re interested in negotiating with your children, my eBook titled, Empowerment Parenting can help.

Hashtags: #LifeequalsChoices, #KimOlver, #parentingpodcast, #SueKranz, #ChoiceTheory, #parenting, #singleparenting, #respect, #boundaries, #choices, #empowermentparenting, #boundariesarehealthy, #parentingbloggers, #parentingwins, #parentinghelp, #setboundaries, #parentingblogger, #parentingishard, #healthyboundaries, #parentingtips, #parenting101, #parentinggoals

Parenting Adult Children When They're Making "Mistakes"

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Most parents know the dangerous waters they navigate when they're trying to help their children make better decisions as adults. In this episode, I share some situations I've encountered with my own children and with one of my clients recently. The key is always to maintain the relationship. I talk about how to walk that fine line of sharing your concerns, while respecting their right to make their own decisions. If after listening, you'd be interested in joining a Mental Freedom Group Coaching cohort, the information can be found at bit.ly/MFCoaching.

#createyourdestiny #gratitude365 #acceptance #gratitudeattitude #loveyourselffirst #selfcarehacks #relationshipmatters #relationshipsmatter #relationshipexpert #kindnesswins #relationshipcoaching #takechargeofyourlife #forgivenessiskey #relationshipproblems #relationshiptips #relationshipissues #relationshipcoach #acountabilitycoach #empowermentcoach #choicesmatter #responsibility #militaryfamilies #parenting #parentingteens #parentingadults #relationshiptalk #ChoosingMeNow

Narcissism

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

On today's podcast episode, I interview author, Nigel Beckles,about narcissism and relationships. Nigel is the author of How to Avoid Making the Big Relationship Mistakes and the forthcoming title, How to Avoid Abusive Relationships: A Guide to Toxic Personalities, due out in 2021. He is a certified relationship coach, speaker, workshop facilitator and relationship specialist. He is also an advocate for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

In this episode, he talks about the importance of bringing healthy relationship boundaries with you into your relationships, the seven traits you should be looking for in a mate and some of the signs of narcissism to look out for.

I learn something new, every time we speak.

After listening to the podcast, if you would like to contact Nigel, his website is: authornigelbeckles.com. He has a podcast at authornigelbecklespodcast.com and his email address is beckles13@hotmail.com. You can also find his first book here: https://amzn.to/3mLNiUV. Stay tuned for the announcement of his forthcoming book.

#narsissist #relationshipadvice #kindnessmatters #relationship101 #relationshipmatters #couplestuff #couplestherapy #relationshipexpert #relationshipcoaching #relationshipproblems #relationshiptips #relationshipadvise #relationshipposts #relationshipblogger #relationshiphelp #relationshipbuilding #traumabonding #relationshipstruggles #relationshipstuff #relationshipsayings #relationshiptip #nigelbeckles #lifeequalschoices #choicesequallife #kimolver

Seasons of Love

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, Kim helps couples view their relationship as moving through the various seasons of one's life. Spring is time for discovery, summer breeds support, while autumn is for challenge and winter is time for renewal. You will find Kim's book, Secrets of Happy Couples, in bookstores and on Amazon and Barnes & Nobles. If you'd like to try a complimentary 20-min. coaching session, you can schedule an appointment at https://calendly.com/kimolver/free-exploratory-coaching-session.

#CoachingTips #PersonalGrowthJourney #selfdiscoveryjourney #relationshipadvice #coachingforlife #coachingforwomen #responsibility #coachingworks #emotionalsupport #lifecoachingtips #mentalfreedom #lifecoaching101 #stressfix #fixmylife #appreciation #trustinyourself #hopeforthefuture #freedomlife #balancedlife #lifelonglearning #hopesanddreams #quotesaboutlifelessons #griefrecovery #happinessisaninsidejob #stressrelieve #KimOlver

Jealousy

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about the effects of jealousy on relationships and its four root causes. She provides ideas for overcoming each one and discusses the importance of staying in the moment. During the show, she recommends four books: Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now, Gay Hendricks' The Big Leap, Marci Shimoff's Happy for No Reason, as well as her own Choosing Me Now. You can also book a free 20-minute coaching session with Kim.

How to Survive an Affair

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Have you been cheated on? Are you trying to decide what to do next? Are you devastated and wondering how to salvage the relationship? In this episode, Kim talks about a three-step process for working through an affair. It's not easy and it isn't for everyone but if you truly want to reestablish and maintain a healthy relationship, with or without your partner's cooperation, it is possible.

To order Kim's book, go to https://amzn.to/2H7IycA. To schedule a free 20-minute coaching session, go to https://calendly.com/kimolver/free-exploratory-coaching-session.

#brenebrowninspired #responsibility #grief #GratitudeistheBestAttitude #freedomofchoice #balancedlifestyle #empowermentofwomen #HappinessComesfromWithin #selfdiscovery #selfcarequotes #knowyourwhy #griefjourney #coachingforsuccess #personalgoals #selfcarematters #stressrelieving #stressfreelife #foregivenessheals #anxietytips #changingthenarrative #lifeishardsometimes #selfimprovementdaily #accountabilitygroup #emotionsmatter #significance #TheRelationshipCenter

The Biggest Lie in Coaching

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Are you thinking of hiring a coach? Do you think just any general coach will do? Do you have expectations of how the coach will help you? In this podcast, Kim talks about three myths of coaching before culminating in The Biggest Lie in Coaching. If you are considering hiring a coach, you really should listen in.

#createyourdestiny #gratitude365 #acceptance #gratitudeattitude #loveyourselffirst #selfcarehacks #timemanagementskills #griefandloss #kindnesswins #leadership101 #takechargeofyourlife #forgivenessiskey #anxietyfree #anxietyanddepression #relationshipissues #relationshipcoach #acountabilitycoach #empowermentcoach #choicesmatter #responsibility #militaryfamilies #authorsofinst #parentingteens #educationUSA #leadershiplessons #ChoosingMeNow

Weight Loss Coaching with Denise Daub

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Have you ever struggled with weight? Tried everything and felt like nothing was ever going to work? Have you lost the same 10 pounds over and over because right after you lose it, you gain it back again? In this week’s podcast, Kim talks with Denise Daub, a 50-something woman who recently lost 60 pounds on her way to 110 and there is no stopping her! Denise, like you, has struggled with weight her entire adult life. Now that she’s figured it out for herself, she wants to give back by sharing her journey with others so she can help you too. Listen in.

If I Know I Can Only Control My Behavior, Why Do I Keep Trying to Control Everybody Else's?

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim interviews Choice Theory enthusiast, Sheryl Matwijkiw, from Australia. Most people realize the only person's behavior they can control is their own; that is painstakingly obvious. And yet, we spend most of our days trying to control the behaviors of others. No one is immune--we do this with our friends, co-workers, children, parents and spouses. This behavior typically has two unintended effects. First, it causes the person you are trying to change to double down and dig in deeper with the unwanted behavior and second, it drives a wedge between you and the other person. No one likes to be controlled, nor do they like to learn they are a disappointment. Kim and Sheryl talk about developing a mindset to help you avoid this dangerous behavior.

#Iamstronger #cheatingwife #kindnesscounts #ChooseHappy #controlyourlife #cheatinghusband #healingfromtrauma #griefcoach #trustissues #trustthejourney #forgivenessisfreedom #anxietywarrior #anxietymanagement #relationshiphelp #authorssupportingauthors #speakerlife #diversity #diversityandinclusion #diversitymatters #parenting101 #parentinggoals #parentinghacks #educationconsultant #traumatized #youcanhealyourlife #CoachingforExcellence

Coaching Explained 101

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this session, Kim discusses what coaching is and what it is not. She helps listeners discern the difference between coaching and counseling, and speaks on the benefits of coaching to help you reach your goals. She also outlines her new group coaching program called, Mental Freedom. You can sign up for the wait list for Mental Freedom at bit.ly/MFCoaching.

#authorsoninstagram #gratitudechallenge #balanceinlife #personalgrowth #HappinessMatters #parentingskills #happinessisachoice #selfcarematters #griefsupport #yellowribbon #stressless #forgivenessisfreedom #anxietyrecovery #anxietyproblems #relationshipproblems #relationshipcoaching #changemylife #lifeishard #selfimprovements #empowermentcoaching #acceptanceiskey #beanally #choiceschoices #significance #educationisthekey #AcademyofChoice

Coaches as Hope Warriors

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim speaks about the role of coaches as Hope Warriors for their clients. She outlines eight ways coaches can provide hope to their clients until clients learn to have hope themselves. If you want to learn to be a Hope Warrior, check out the coaching programs at www.academyofchoice.com. If you would like to receive coaching from an Academy of Choice Hope Warrior coach, check out the coaching packages at https://therelationshipcenter.biz/coaching/personal-coaching.

#CoachingTips #PersonalGrowthJourney #selfdiscoveryjourney #relationshipadvice #coachingforlife #coachingforwomen #responsibility #coachingworks #emotionalsupport #lifecoachingtips #mentalfreedom #lifecoaching101 #stressfix #fixmylife #appreciation #trustinyourself #hopeforthefuture #freedomlife #balancedlife lifelonglearning #hopesanddreams #quotesaboutlifelessons #griefrecovery #happinessisaninsidejob #stressrelieve #KimOlver

Mental Freedom: Making Your Emotions Work for You Instead of Against You

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about the two purposes of emotions--one that is your friends, and the other causes trouble in your most important relationships. Learn how to read the first and develop alternative methods to avoid the second. If you are interested in the Mental Freedom Group Coaching program, click on this link: https://therelationshipcenter.biz/coaching/mf-groupcoaching

#KimOlver #TheRelationshipCenter #ChoosingMeNow #MentalFreedom #100Responsibility #responseability #freedom #podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife#choices #PersonalGrowth#PersonalDiscovery #SelfDiscovery #PersonalDiscoveryJourney #EmotionalSupport #psychology#LifeCoachingTips #LifeCoachingforWomen #LifeCoaching101 #LifeCoachingWorks #CoachingTips#happiness#HappinessisaChoice #ChooseHappy #ChooseHappiness #ChooseHappyness #ChooseHappyDaily

The Language of Mental Freedom

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, Kim teaches about the words and expressions that once eliminated from your vocabulary will enhance your Mental Freedom practice. There are certain things you wouldn’t say along the path to Mental Freedom. Find out what they are and start your Mental Freedom practice today. If you are interested in Kim’s Mental Freedom Group Coaching program, click on this link: https://therelationshipcenter.biz/coaching/mf-groupcoaching

#KimOlver #TheRelationshipCenter #ChoosingMeNow #MentalFreedom #PersonalGrowth #PersonalDiscovery #SelfDiscovery #PersonalDiscoveryJourney #LifeCoachingTips #LifeCoachingforWomen #LifeCoaching101 #LifeCoachingWorks #CoachingTips #AwesomeAppreciation #MentalFreedomMovement #podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices

Mental Freedom: Taking Control of the Stories in Your Head

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In today’s podcast, Kim continues the conversation on her transformational Mental Freedom process by sharing an 8-step process for changing the narrative of the stories we tell ourselves in our head. If you are interested in being in her next Mental Freedom Group Coaching cohort, you can get on her waitlist here: https://bit.ly/MFCoaching.

#KimOlver #TheRelationshipCenter #ChoosingMeNow #MentalFreedom #MentalFreedomMovement #lifelonglearning #podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #PersonalGrowth #PersonalDiscovery #SelfDiscovery #PersonalDiscoveryJourney #EmotionalSupport #LifeCoachingTips #LifeCoachingforWomen #LifeCoaching101 #LifeCoachingWorks #CoachingTips

Mental Freedom Group Coaching

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Kim is halfway through her first Mental Freedom Group Coaching cohort and wanted them to have an opportunity to share how it’s been going with her audience. She is looking to put her second cohort together so if Mental Freedom is something you’ve been craving, you can sign up for her waitlist here: https://bit.ly.com/MFCoaching.

#KimOlver #CoachingforExcellence #ChoosingMeNow #MentalFreedom #100Responsibility #responseability #AwesomeAppreciation #MentalFreedomMovement #gratitude #podcast

#LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices #PersonalGrowth #PersonalDiscovery #SelfDiscovery #PersonalDiscoveryJourney

Developing Self-Discipline in Students

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, Kim discusses a Socratic questioning process teachers can use with students to help them develop self-discipline. She outlines a progressive method to go from the goal of keeping students in the classroom to the rare event, when done right, of asking the student to leave the room. She also outlines a negotiation process whereby teachers accomplish their goals of safety, respect and learning, while helping students meet their needs of safety, connection, significance, freedom and joy in the classroom.

#podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices #KimOlver #CoachingforExcellence #educationmatters #educationUSA #educationfirst #educationsystem #educationpositive #lifelonglearning

Elements of a Glasser Quality School or Classroom

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this podcast, Kim talks to parents, educators and administrators about the elements that need to be in place to operate a Glasser Quality School. William Glasser is the founder of Choice Theory and his application to schools has been brilliant, with both students and teachers enjoying the learning process more, based on the foundation of need-satisfying relationships. If you want to create this environment for yourself, listen in and contact kim@coachingforexcellence.biz for further information, coaching or training.

#podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices #KimOlver #CoachingforExcellence

#educationmatters #educationUSA #educationfirst #educationsystem #educationpositive #lifelonglearning

One Person's Success with the Application of Choice Theory in Schools

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview someone in education I greatly admire, Rachel McElroy. Rachel is a Choice Theory phenom in my book. After only knowing Choice Theory for three years, she has taken the application of it to the B-BASE students in Albemarle County, VA. Rachel not only works with students with behavioral challenges, she also works with the teachers who work with those students. Listen in to hear Rachel's success stories and to be touched by her genuine application of Choice Theory in all aspects of her life.

#RachelMcElroy #podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices #KimOlver #CoachingforExcellence #educationmatters #educationUSA #educationfirst #educationsystem #educationpositive #choicetheory #williamglasser

Creating a Need-Satisfying Classroom or Workplace

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim discusses how the teacher or manager creates a need-satisfying classroom or workplace for everyone, including themselves. Each of the five basic needs are explored, as well as ways to address them at school and work.

#KimOlver #CoachingforExcellence #ChoiceTheory #EmpoweredLeadership #educationmatters #educationUSA #educationfirst #educationsystem #educationpositive #ChoiceTheory #podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices

Qualities, Traits and Behaviors of an Empowered Leader

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I invite leaders to self-evaluate how they measure up to the qualities, traits and behaviors of the Empowered Leader, while asking them to celebrate the ways they do. If there are areas where you could improve, ask yourself first, if you value that trait and want to put the time, energy and resources into improving or are you fine where you are. If you decide to improve, I would love to help you either through training for your company or private coaching for you or some of your leaders.

Leadership Inspiration with Terri Winfree

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 23:45:00 -0500

Please join us for this inspiring interview with Dr. Terri Winfree. Terri is such a strong, resilient and connecting leader who began as a restaurant owner, went to college to learn something to help the restaurant,which changed the course of her life. She went all the way from student to the first female president of Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, IL. After twenty-five years of being at the college, Terri took retirement so she can focus on the next phase of her growth and development. Always learning, always growing, always positive, Terri tells her secrets to being an inspirational leader.

#podcast #LifeEqualsChoices #ChoicesEqualLife #choices #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #Leadershipcoaching #Leadershiptraining #coaching #BusinessCoaching #CoachingTips #KimOlver #lifelonglearning #JohnMaxwell #TerriWinfree

All Lives Matter isn’t True until Black Lives Matter

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about my personal involvement in supporting #BLM. My goal is to bring about understanding and clarity of who I am and why this is important to me. I am not trying to change anyone’s view but if someone is interested in educating themselves about the movement and wants to listen, I share my opinions, hopefully in a way most people can hear them.

Try Coaching Instead of Managing

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0500

What if what you learned about managing people was all wrong? Do you find your employees are resentful and talk behind your back? Or do you think your employees are taking advantage of your good nature? There is something in between I call Empowered Leadership, and coaching, rather than managing, is a big part of that leadership. It frees you up to do the big picture things you need to do, while freeing your employees from being micromanaged or left to their own devices. If this sounds like it could be for you, then check out this podcast. For more on Empowered Leadership, click here: www.therelationshipcenter.biz/shop.

Empowered Leadership

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim expands the concept of Choice Theory Leadership into a style of leadership called Empowered Leadership. It’s about balancing the work to be done with the people who are engaged in the work. Coaching instead of Managing Your Direct Reports. If you are interested in learning more about Empowered Leadership, check out Kim’s ebook with the same name here.

The Mental Freedom™ Process

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Listen in to hear about the new process I’ve developed and am using with my clients, called Your Path to Mental Freedom. You will discover how to take 100% Responsibility for the things you do and release responsibility for what others do, while also learning about the next two steps of The Unconditional Trust Challenge and Appreciation of the G.L.O.W. Listen to the end for a special offer.

Does My Happiness depend on Yours? – interview with Maureen Sansom

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Maureen Sansom, who has been practicing Choice Theory for several years. She has been employed by the NSW Dept. of Education for the past 25 years and for the past 13 years, is at a school for the specific purpose of assisting children who have difficulty managing their behavior. Maureen is a Reality Therapist, having been Certified in Choice Theory, Reality Therapy & Lead Management. She also has an Advanced Certification in the Clinical Practice of Reality Therapy. Maureen is a Facilitator of the Take Charge of Your Life program in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia. She also serves as the Honorary Secretary of the Glasser Australia organization. Maureen will talk about how your personal happiness is not dependent on the happiness of the important people in your life.

Developing Effective Communication around Racism

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim speaks about the racial unrest in this country from her perspective which comes from listening to, learning from and facilitating diversity workshops over the past 20 years. Her perspective naturally has been shaped from white privilege but it’s been drastically affected by hearing from her black brothers and sisters how different their lives are from her own. She lays out a plan to have effective race communication to capture the hearts and minds of enough people to truly break down barriers and eliminate privilege from this culture. If you would like to hire her to facilitate some diversity and inclusion conversations for your business, community organization or religious group, you can contact her at kim@therelationshipcenter,biz.

Mental Illness: The Disease of Disconnection

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim takes a look at the fallacies in the biological/disease/medical model of mental illness and instead proposes, what is currently called mental illness, is actually not a disease at all, but rather a person's best attempt to get something they want when they are suffering from disconnection. Disconnection comes in many forms and the coronavirus has created disconnection of epic proportions. If you are suffering from disconnection or if you are professionals helping those who are disconnected, have a listen.

Diversity and Inclusion for the LGBT Community

Thu, 28 May 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Because my guests live in different time zones, they were interviewed separately, instead of as a panel, so this week’s podcast is a bit different, and by necessity, longer, than my previous diversity and inclusion podcasts. I will be speaking with three exceptional humans who are members of the LGBT community. As such, they live with discrimination and inequities every single day by just living their lives, being themselves and loving whom they love. I know many of you believe in equal rights for the LBGT community. Those who oppose them, have likely not had conversations to understand what life is like for them. Some of you may agree with the concept of equal rights for the LGBT community in principle, but you may not be in touch with today’s LGBT community, as the conversation and language is always evolving. This podcast is one way to hear today’s conversations. Listen in, be an ally and help tear down barriers of inequities and discrimination.

Diversity & Inclusion for Hispanics

Thu, 21 May 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Kim has a discussion with two exceptional humans whose skin tone categorizes them as Hispanic, who live with discrimination and inequities every single day over something they have zero control over. Many Hispanic people fear having a straight-ahead conversation about ethnicity with white people because for Hispanics, it often isn’t safe due to discrimination and stereotyping that exists, while whites fear appearing racist for even calling attention to the inequities. Tune in if you’d like to hear what these brave Hispanics had to say to this white girl about what it has been like for them to live with brown skin in the US of A.

Diversity & Inclusion: Black & African American

Thu, 14 May 2020 06:00:00 -0500

My goal in doing this podcast is to provide a space for safe, honest, direct conversation of the life experiences with discrimination, oppression and inequities of some amazing humans, who also happen to fit into the category of Black or African American because of the shade of their skin. They will also provide great advice for allies. Let’s help break down barriers.

Diversity & Inclusion: Women in the Workplace

Thu, 07 May 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Listen in to the first of five podcasts about marginalized groups, what life is like for some of them and how best to be an ally for this group. In this podcast, Kim interviews six women of different decades working in male-dominated professions and the inequities they have experienced. The focus is not on condemning men but on helping people who aren't a member of this group how to best serve as an ally. Join the conversation and maybe start some conversations of your own.

Why Do People Choose Misery?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0500

So much of people’s misery is created in their own head. It’s not done consciously but it is done for a reason—ten of them to be exact. Come to learn why you might be choosing misery and how to stop.

Focus and Balance during Coronavirus

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0500

This episode address the concepts of focus and balance, particularly during the coronavirus quarantine. I lay out an 8-Step Process for developing and maintaining focus and talk about a better way than work/life balance to think about balance. Life balance, which includes work, is about balancing your needs. Listen in to discover why I prefer that model.

Self-Discovery Coaching – Who Am I and Who Do I Want to Be?

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Knowing oneself is the foundation of any self-growth and development program. Most people are only too familiar with the person they have been groomed to be, or the person others want them to be, but do you know who you were truly meant to be? Join in and learn how you can find out.

Coronavirus and How to Get Your Needs Met

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Kim talks about the stages of grief many are experiencing during the coronavirus pandemic, the five basic needs everyone has, and how to get them met effectively when it's so easy to get stuck on how you can't meet them in your familiar ways.

Interview with LIV Pocket Coach, Jeanette Schneider

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0500

This week Kim interviews Jeanette Schneider, the founder and CEO of LIV Media. LIV is an acronym for Love is Viral. Jeanette and her team have created an awesome self-growth app called, LIV Pocket Coach, it's like having a coach in your pocket. We will be talking about the app--its free version, paid version and expanded version with a coach. Jeanette is all about service and I have been enjoying our association and wanted to share her with you.

How Do Kids Learn Responsibility without Punishment?

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Choice Parents do not believe in the concept of punishment so I am often asked the question, “How do kids learn responsibility without punishment?” It’s a myth that children need pain to learn. In fact, the opposite is true. When children are being hurt, either physically or emotionally, they are unable to learn because they are closed for protection. Choice parents use modeling and the art of teaching from natural consequences to help their children learn responsibility. No punishment required…

Flexing Your Parenting Negotiating Muscles

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Almost from the time they are conceived, children are involved in an inherent conflict with their parents—parents are trying to keep their children safe, while children are trying to meet their other needs for connection, significance, freedom and joy. Many parents somehow believe negotiating with their children, someone lessens their power but the reverse is true. Parents need to figure out what they want in the long run and develop the patience and willingness to give up what they want right now, in favor of getting what they really want later. Negotiation is the vehicle to getting there. If you’ve listened to other podcasts, then you know people are driven by their five basic needs. Everyone has these needs. It’s crucial for parents to get their needs met but it’s just as crucial for children to meet theirs. Because they are children, parents can create a challenging environment for children to get their needs met which can lead to two outcomes—an overly compliant child who will do what anyone asks them to do or a rebellious child seeking out unsafe ways to meet their needs. Negotiation is the way through these challenging times. Listen in to learn how. #parenting #parentingtips #kimolver #therelationshipcenter

What Type of Parent are You?

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Today we will talk about three types of parents—dictator/strict parents, permissive/uninvolved parents and Choice Parents. These types exist on a continuum and you likely move along the continuum to suit your mood, your child and/or the situation. I will make the case for reducing the amount of time you spend at the far ends of the continuum, so you can cultivate the balance in the middle. We will cover exactly what you are balancing, as well as the three factors you will want to take into account to determine whether you operate to the left or right of center.

What is Choice Parenting?

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Join me while I talk with a Choice Theory parenting expert, Philip Mott, who is a former disengaged student turned teacher who found it harder and harder to fit into the educational system the more he adopted Glasser's Choice Theory. He spends his free time interacting with struggling parents on various groups. He is in the early stages of launching his own coaching program, helping parents understand the issues that keep them from expressing their unconditional love. His perspective has been welcomed into the Choice Theory family as he demonstrated in his certification process how Reality Therapy principles could be practiced with children under the age of four.#philipmott #parenting #parentingtips #kimolver #therelationshipcenter #lifeequalschoices #choicesequallife

Gary Chapman's 5 Love Languages

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Do You Know the Love Language of Yourself and Your Partner? Are you bi-lingual? If you don’t learn your love language and the love language of your partner, you run the risk of loving each other without the other person feeling the love. This can be tragic for relationships. Being bi-lingual with love languages has helped more couples I work with than anything else. If you haven’t heard of these concepts or would like a refresher, please listen in.

Sex & Romance: Synchronicity or Warfare?

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Do you find yourself in a relationship where there is great synergy between you in the dance of sex and romance or has that dance turned into a battle where sex and romance are doled out in small quantities and weaponized against each other? It is a common theme in relationship coaching and one that can be fixed. It doesn’t mean your relationship has stopped working; it simply means you need to learn to understand each other better and to prioritize your relationship again. Listen in and learn how.

Relationship Habits

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Do you have relationships in your life that you wish were closer? Are you at a loss for how to make them better? Often the problem in relationships is that one person is trying to get the other person to do something they don’t want to do, both of you are trying to get each other to do things neither of you want to do, or one of you is trying to make yourself do something you don’t want to do mainly to please someone else. Listen to hear how to stop trying to control one another so you can clear the path toward loving each other again.

Couples Synergy

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 06:00:00 -0500

February is known as the month of love and I am kicking it off with an interview with Ray and Jean Kadkhodaian, founders of the revolutionary concepts of Couples Synergy. Listen to hear what they have to say about nearly 20 years of working with couples.

Support and Challenge

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Choice Coaching is based on the principles of William’s Glasser’s Choice Theory. It has ten principles and subsequent goals for coaching. This show helps you understand the dance coaches do between supporting and challenges by filling you in on Choice Coaching’s principles to see if Choice Coaching resonates with you, either as a professional or a client.

Benefits of Coaching

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered if coaching is for you? What is coaching anyway? Are you thinking of becoming a coach? Have you considered hiring a coach? Join us to hear the benefits of coaching both for the coach and the client.

The Psychology of Success

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 06:00:00 -0500

This show is an interview with Dr. Nasrollah Navid on the Psychology of Success. Gone are the days when success is described by vocational and financial success. There are other aspects to consider when considering success.

More than Goal Setting…

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 06:00:00 -0500

How many times have you set goals on New Year’s Eve only to forget about them before the end of January? You start like gangbusters the first two weeks, then start to decrease progress before halting forward movement completely. That used to be me until I developed my 7-Step Process to Goal Attainment and if you're serious about accomplishing your goals this year, I'm happy to share it with you. If you want a tip sheet about it, you can download one free at https://bit.ly/39FcAxT.

Life = Choices; Choices = Life

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Life is a sum of all the choices we’ve made to this point to the various people and things we’ve encountered in our life. Making our choices is what life’s all about. If you are like me, you are every day trying to make better and better choices for a better and better life. It’s my mission to help people get along better with the important people in their lives, including themselves, at home and work and to make better choices to create that life you deserve.

Introduction

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 06:00:00 -0500

Learn all about Life = Choices; Choices = Life. This show explains the why, how and what of this podcast so you can decide whether you will become a casual listener or an avid fan. We’re hoping for the latter.