<![CDATA[Unleashed Potential with Cheryl McDonald]]>e450d16e-a512-57e6-b3c1-6526bb14bccfMon, 12 Oct 2026 10:11:03 +0000Captivate.fmCheryl McDonaldhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/d2c94abc-dbad-4645-87f3-5bcacacc73d5/rsz-1unleashed-potential-page-001.jpgUnleashed Potential with Cheryl McDonaldCheryl McDonaldCheryl McDonaldWhat if the biggest obstacle standing between you and the life, business, or legacy you want isn't a lack of knowledge—but a lack of alignment between who you are today and who you need to become? Hosted by Cheryl McDonald, coach, trainer, speaker, and lifelong student of personal growth, Unleashed Potential explores the mindset, habits, leadership principles, and intentional actions that help ordinary people achieve extraordinary results. Each episode delivers practical strategies, thought-provoking conversations, and real-world insights designed to help you close the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, pursuing personal growth, navigating life's transitions, or simply striving to become the best version of yourself, you'll find inspiration and actionable tools you can apply immediately. If you're ready to stop living beneath your potential and start showing up as the person capable of achieving your biggest goals, you're in the right place. Because your future is not determined by your circumstances—it's shaped by the choices you make, the habits you build, and the person you choose to become. Welcome to Unleashed Potential.https://unleashed-potential.captivate.fmfalseserialnopodcastEP 11: Break Through Your Limiting Beliefs and Build the Career You Actually WantEP 11: Break Through Your Limiting Beliefs and Build the Career You Actually WantThis episode brings listeners inside the real, day‑to‑day work of building a purposeful business career, as Cheryl McDonald and Margaret Gade unpack the habits, mindset shifts, and relationship‑driven strategies that fuel long‑term success. Through Margaret’s journey, from hesitant new coach to a leader who helps dual‑career agents grow thriving businesses, the conversation highlights the power of time‑blocking, visualizing goals, attending high‑impact events, and celebrating small wins to build momentum. Their discussion details how accountability, personal growth, and making a meaningful difference in someone’s life each day can transform both business and mindset.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

9:45 Revamp the initial conversation with new coaching clients to establish solid expectations from the start.

7:23 Implement techniques from Phil Jones' book 'Exactly What to Say' to tailor conversations and ask deeper questions.

8:03 Attend at least one major Keller Williams event (Family Reunion or Mega Camp) annually for personal and professional growth.

15:17 Maintain a weekly coaching call with your own coach for accountability and continuous improvement.

23:59 Encourage clients to visualize their dreams and future goals to help them break through limiting beliefs.

25:41 Celebrate small wins and successes with coaching clients to build confidence and momentum.

HASHTAGS: #ProductivityCoaching #MindsetMatters #GoalSettingStrategies #PersonalDevelopmentJourney #TimeBlockingTips #MakeADifferenceDaily #UnleashedPotential #CherylMcDonald

]]>This episode brings listeners inside the real, day‑to‑day work of building a purposeful business career, as Cheryl McDonald and Margaret Gade unpack the habits, mindset shifts, and relationship‑driven strategies that fuel long‑term success. Through Margaret’s journey, from hesitant new coach to a leader who helps dual‑career agents grow thriving businesses, the conversation highlights the power of time‑blocking, visualizing goals, attending high‑impact events, and celebrating small wins to build momentum. Their discussion details how accountability, personal growth, and making a meaningful difference in someone’s life each day can transform both business and mindset.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

9:45 Revamp the initial conversation with new coaching clients to establish solid expectations from the start.

7:23 Implement techniques from Phil Jones' book 'Exactly What to Say' to tailor conversations and ask deeper questions.

8:03 Attend at least one major Keller Williams event (Family Reunion or Mega Camp) annually for personal and professional growth.

15:17 Maintain a weekly coaching call with your own coach for accountability and continuous improvement.

23:59 Encourage clients to visualize their dreams and future goals to help them break through limiting beliefs.

25:41 Celebrate small wins and successes with coaching clients to build confidence and momentum.

HASHTAGS: #ProductivityCoaching #MindsetMatters #GoalSettingStrategies #PersonalDevelopmentJourney #TimeBlockingTips #MakeADifferenceDaily #UnleashedPotential #CherylMcDonald

]]>0ddc935f-0cca-4738-ada8-8210f1d7a95eMon, 12 Oct 2026 05:00:00 -050027:47falsefull1111EP 10: Embrace Spontaneity, Face Fears, and Find JoyEP 10: Embrace Spontaneity, Face Fears, and Find JoyIn Embrace Spontaneity, Face Fears, and Find Joy, Cheryl McDonald invites listeners into a day overflowing with unexpected moments (e.g., french fries shared poolside, laughter with young neighbors Cody and Nolan, and the thrill of Nolan’s first motorcycle ride). Through these simple, unscripted moments, Cheryl reveals how joy isn’t something we wait for but something we choose, notice, and nurture. She explores the deeper distinction between happiness and joy, challenges the habits that keep us from embracing the present, and shows how stepping into spontaneity. Even a little fear, can open the door to life’s most meaningful experiences. This episode is a reminder that joy is already here; we just have to say yes to it.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

10:35 Think about your yesterday and reflect on whether you had moments of joy or missed opportunities for joy.

11:26 Identify something in your business or life that makes you nervous or afraid, and consider facing that fear to experience the potential joy or happiness on the other side.

11:26 Embrace spontaneity and be open to impromptu activities or experiences that may bring you joy, even if they deviate from your original plans.

HASHTAGS: #EmbraceSpontaneity #ChooseJoyDaily #FaceYourFears #LiveInTheMoment #UnleashedPotential #JoyfulLiving #MindsetShift #EverydayMagic #CherylMcDonald

]]>In Embrace Spontaneity, Face Fears, and Find Joy, Cheryl McDonald invites listeners into a day overflowing with unexpected moments (e.g., french fries shared poolside, laughter with young neighbors Cody and Nolan, and the thrill of Nolan’s first motorcycle ride). Through these simple, unscripted moments, Cheryl reveals how joy isn’t something we wait for but something we choose, notice, and nurture. She explores the deeper distinction between happiness and joy, challenges the habits that keep us from embracing the present, and shows how stepping into spontaneity. Even a little fear, can open the door to life’s most meaningful experiences. This episode is a reminder that joy is already here; we just have to say yes to it.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

10:35 Think about your yesterday and reflect on whether you had moments of joy or missed opportunities for joy.

11:26 Identify something in your business or life that makes you nervous or afraid, and consider facing that fear to experience the potential joy or happiness on the other side.

11:26 Embrace spontaneity and be open to impromptu activities or experiences that may bring you joy, even if they deviate from your original plans.

HASHTAGS: #EmbraceSpontaneity #ChooseJoyDaily #FaceYourFears #LiveInTheMoment #UnleashedPotential #JoyfulLiving #MindsetShift #EverydayMagic #CherylMcDonald

]]>6e61313d-4338-43bd-bdee-e8e37bf8da85Mon, 05 Oct 2026 03:30:00 -050012:22falsefull1010EP 9: What I Learned at a Metallica and Pitbull ConcertEP 9: What I Learned at a Metallica and Pitbull ConcertCheryl McDonald delivers a compelling reminder that growth often begins where comfort ends. In this episode of Unleashed Potential, she recounts attending a Metallica and Pitbull concert. What began as obligations quickly became a masterclass in perspective. Cheryl discovered the power of stepping into unfamiliar spaces. Her story becomes a larger call to action for leaders, professionals, and anyone striving to live with greater intention: Motivation isn’t enough; purpose is what sustains momentum.

Cheryl challenges you to pursue experiences that push your boundaries, uncover the deeper “why” behind your choices, and embrace discomfort as a catalyst for living a more intentional, fully engaged life.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

15:37 Put yourself into situations that will make you uncomfortable, stretch your mind, and force you to look at your experience from a new perspective.

15:53 Dig deep down inside and find out what truly motivates you beyond just being motivated.

16:55 Experience something that makes you incredibly uncomfortable and that you think you're going to have a lousy time, but dig for the reason you're there.

HASHTAGS: #LeadershipGrowth #PurposeDrivenLife #ComfortZoneChallenge #MindsetShift #LiveYourBestLife #UnleashedPotential #CherylMcDonald

]]>Cheryl McDonald delivers a compelling reminder that growth often begins where comfort ends. In this episode of Unleashed Potential, she recounts attending a Metallica and Pitbull concert. What began as obligations quickly became a masterclass in perspective. Cheryl discovered the power of stepping into unfamiliar spaces. Her story becomes a larger call to action for leaders, professionals, and anyone striving to live with greater intention: Motivation isn’t enough; purpose is what sustains momentum.

Cheryl challenges you to pursue experiences that push your boundaries, uncover the deeper “why” behind your choices, and embrace discomfort as a catalyst for living a more intentional, fully engaged life.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

15:37 Put yourself into situations that will make you uncomfortable, stretch your mind, and force you to look at your experience from a new perspective.

15:53 Dig deep down inside and find out what truly motivates you beyond just being motivated.

16:55 Experience something that makes you incredibly uncomfortable and that you think you're going to have a lousy time, but dig for the reason you're there.

HASHTAGS: #LeadershipGrowth #PurposeDrivenLife #ComfortZoneChallenge #MindsetShift #LiveYourBestLife #UnleashedPotential #CherylMcDonald

]]>503cbf76-d2d5-4dcc-b170-f3c3f3d634fcMon, 28 Sep 2026 05:25:00 -050017:54falsefull99EP 8: Session 6 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetEP 8: Session 6 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetThis is the final episode in Cheryl McDonald’s six-part series about building a stronger mindset. How are you unleashing your potential? Where are you on that journey? What habits do you need to change? Grab your earbuds and learn more about sustaining momentum and doing your long-term goal setting using a 12-week method.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

1:48 Understanding Momentum and Consistency

4:09 Mindset: Fixed vs. Growth

4:37 Neuroplasticity and Self-Talk

9:55 Implementation and Accountability

15:45 Long-Term Goal Setting and Values Alignment.

HASHTAGS: #mindset, #fixedmindset #growthmindset #neuroplasticity #selftalk #momentum #consistency #productivitycoaching #unleashedpotential #podcast

]]>This is the final episode in Cheryl McDonald’s six-part series about building a stronger mindset. How are you unleashing your potential? Where are you on that journey? What habits do you need to change? Grab your earbuds and learn more about sustaining momentum and doing your long-term goal setting using a 12-week method.

Action Items (Time Stamps):

1:48 Understanding Momentum and Consistency

4:09 Mindset: Fixed vs. Growth

4:37 Neuroplasticity and Self-Talk

9:55 Implementation and Accountability

15:45 Long-Term Goal Setting and Values Alignment.

HASHTAGS: #mindset, #fixedmindset #growthmindset #neuroplasticity #selftalk #momentum #consistency #productivitycoaching #unleashedpotential #podcast

]]>ed1f2d4a-fd7c-470f-929b-fcf0ea844736Mon, 21 Sep 2026 04:05:00 -050019:51falsefull88EP 7: Session 5 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetEP 7: Session 5 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetWhat habits do you want to change? In this fifth episode in the series, Cheryl McDonald focuses on 'unleashing the power of habits'. Grab your earbuds and learn about the 'habit loop' consisting of cue, routine, and reward, and the neuroscience behind habit formation and change. Don’t you have habits you want to change?? Key to your success includes starting small, tracking progress, and creating supportive environments for habit change.

Action Items (Time Stamps)

3:25 Understanding Habit Formation

6:32 The Habit Loop Explained

10:02 Breaking Bad Habits

16:18 Building New Habits

22:47 Creating Supportive Environments

HASHTAGS: #habits, #habitformation, #newhabits, #badhabits, #Habitloop, #businessmindset, #productivitycoaching

]]>What habits do you want to change? In this fifth episode in the series, Cheryl McDonald focuses on 'unleashing the power of habits'. Grab your earbuds and learn about the 'habit loop' consisting of cue, routine, and reward, and the neuroscience behind habit formation and change. Don’t you have habits you want to change?? Key to your success includes starting small, tracking progress, and creating supportive environments for habit change.

Action Items (Time Stamps)

3:25 Understanding Habit Formation

6:32 The Habit Loop Explained

10:02 Breaking Bad Habits

16:18 Building New Habits

22:47 Creating Supportive Environments

HASHTAGS: #habits, #habitformation, #newhabits, #badhabits, #Habitloop, #businessmindset, #productivitycoaching

]]>20129b2b-16e4-45c8-ae5a-4c7ce315649bMon, 21 Sep 2026 04:00:00 -050029:32falsefull77EP 6: Session 4 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetEP 6: Session 4 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetIn this fourth session of ‘Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset’, Cheryl discusses techniques for re-thinking how to use your brain to achieve success: neuroplasticity, visualization, affirmations, cognitive restructuring, and strategies for focus and productivity. This podcast episode will help you learn more about how focus and productivity strategies as daily practices to achieve success.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

25:15 Start each day with visualizations and affirmations to set a positive tone.

23:36 Break larger goals into smaller actionable steps using the 12-week year method.

21:39 Emphasize the importance of identifying and challenging limiting beliefs through cognitive restructuring.

3:32 Create a vision board to visualize goals and maintain focus on achieving them.

KEYWORDS: #mindset, #businessmindset, #productivitycoaching, #brainbased, #businessleaders, #shamelessplug, #visualization, #affirmations, #cognitiverestructuring, #visionboard, #actions

]]>In this fourth session of ‘Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset’, Cheryl discusses techniques for re-thinking how to use your brain to achieve success: neuroplasticity, visualization, affirmations, cognitive restructuring, and strategies for focus and productivity. This podcast episode will help you learn more about how focus and productivity strategies as daily practices to achieve success.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

25:15 Start each day with visualizations and affirmations to set a positive tone.

23:36 Break larger goals into smaller actionable steps using the 12-week year method.

21:39 Emphasize the importance of identifying and challenging limiting beliefs through cognitive restructuring.

3:32 Create a vision board to visualize goals and maintain focus on achieving them.

KEYWORDS: #mindset, #businessmindset, #productivitycoaching, #brainbased, #businessleaders, #shamelessplug, #visualization, #affirmations, #cognitiverestructuring, #visionboard, #actions

]]>735af1ff-5e11-4659-aa27-461b971b62d2Mon, 14 Sep 2026 05:05:00 -050028:09falsefull66EP 5: Session 3 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetEP 5: Session 3 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetIn this third session of 'Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset', Cheryl discusses the crucial connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions. She introduces the cognitive behavioral framework, explaining how negative thoughts can trigger stress responses (fight, flight, or freeze), while positive thoughts foster confidence and problem-solving abilities. You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of reframing negative thoughts into positive ones to achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional contexts.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

19:35 Practice awareness of thought patterns and their impact on behavior.

17:37 Reframe from negative thoughts: move to 'haven't mastered yet' instead of 'can't do this'

18:11 Change from want/need statements to excitement statements for better brain engagement.

16:04 Reflect on situations where negative thoughts hold you back.

16:20 Identify positive thoughts that pushed you forward.

KEYWORDS: #mindset, #thoughtpatterns, #cognitivebehavioralframework #thoughts, #emotions, #actions

]]>In this third session of 'Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset', Cheryl discusses the crucial connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions. She introduces the cognitive behavioral framework, explaining how negative thoughts can trigger stress responses (fight, flight, or freeze), while positive thoughts foster confidence and problem-solving abilities. You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of reframing negative thoughts into positive ones to achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional contexts.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

19:35 Practice awareness of thought patterns and their impact on behavior.

17:37 Reframe from negative thoughts: move to 'haven't mastered yet' instead of 'can't do this'

18:11 Change from want/need statements to excitement statements for better brain engagement.

16:04 Reflect on situations where negative thoughts hold you back.

16:20 Identify positive thoughts that pushed you forward.

KEYWORDS: #mindset, #thoughtpatterns, #cognitivebehavioralframework #thoughts, #emotions, #actions

]]>9232fbd5-5a25-4eee-9485-c71b4dada0e0Mon, 14 Sep 2026 04:50:00 -050020:43falsefull55EP 4: Session 2 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetEP 4: Session 2 - Six Weeks to a Stronger MindsetIn this second session of 'Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset', Cheryl discusses the concept of mindset and how the brain works. She explains the three parts of the brain: brain stem (survival state), limbic system (emotional state), and prefrontal cortex (executive state), including how these components interact and influence our behavior. Did you know that 95% of our life is spent on autopilot? You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of the habit loop, and practical applications for changing thought patterns and behaviors.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

8:17 Implement one new learning within 24 hours of receiving it to create lasting change;

13:26 Practice mindfulness and meditation to train the brain to respond thoughtfully instead of impulsively;

13:39 Use visualization and affirmations to build new neural pathways;

15:55 Read 'Mindset, The New Psychology of Success' by Carol Dweck;

16:12 Research brain function and behavior change through Google or ChatGPT;

16:28 Consider working with a coach for objective perspective and guidance.

HASHTAGS: #mindset, #habit loop, #mindfulness, #meditation, #brain function

]]>In this second session of 'Unleashed Six Weeks to a Stronger Mindset', Cheryl discusses the concept of mindset and how the brain works. She explains the three parts of the brain: brain stem (survival state), limbic system (emotional state), and prefrontal cortex (executive state), including how these components interact and influence our behavior. Did you know that 95% of our life is spent on autopilot? You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of the habit loop, and practical applications for changing thought patterns and behaviors.

Action Items (i.e., podcast time stamps)

8:17 Implement one new learning within 24 hours of receiving it to create lasting change;

13:26 Practice mindfulness and meditation to train the brain to respond thoughtfully instead of impulsively;

13:39 Use visualization and affirmations to build new neural pathways;

15:55 Read 'Mindset, The New Psychology of Success' by Carol Dweck;

16:12 Research brain function and behavior change through Google or ChatGPT;

16:28 Consider working with a coach for objective perspective and guidance.

HASHTAGS: #mindset, #habit loop, #mindfulness, #meditation, #brain function

]]>a368a474-5073-40b7-9432-84d824325463Mon, 07 Sep 2026 05:54:00 -050017:24falsefull44EP 3: A New Series Called “Unleashed Six Weeks”: A Journey of Personal DevelopmentEP 3: A New Series Called “Unleashed Six Weeks”: A Journey of Personal DevelopmentWhat if the biggest barrier between you and your next level is the way you think? In this energizing kickoff to her Unleashed Six Weeks series, Cheryl McDonald breaks down the difference between a fixed mindset that keeps us stuck and a growth mindset that opens the door to possibility. Through personal stories, real‑life examples, and honest reflections, she explores how our past experiences shape our worldview—and how we can rewrite those patterns to create a more empowered future. Cheryl shares practical strategies for challenging limiting beliefs, embracing feedback, and stepping into growth in your career, leadership, and everyday life. This episode is a reminder that you are capable of change, and that personal development is an ongoing journey. If you’re ready to think differently, lead boldly, and unlock your potential, this conversation is your starting point.

]]>What if the biggest barrier between you and your next level is the way you think? In this energizing kickoff to her Unleashed Six Weeks series, Cheryl McDonald breaks down the difference between a fixed mindset that keeps us stuck and a growth mindset that opens the door to possibility. Through personal stories, real‑life examples, and honest reflections, she explores how our past experiences shape our worldview—and how we can rewrite those patterns to create a more empowered future. Cheryl shares practical strategies for challenging limiting beliefs, embracing feedback, and stepping into growth in your career, leadership, and everyday life. This episode is a reminder that you are capable of change, and that personal development is an ongoing journey. If you’re ready to think differently, lead boldly, and unlock your potential, this conversation is your starting point.

]]>94b60aeb-aef5-49ef-81dc-79820c859d82Mon, 07 Sep 2026 05:40:00 -050017:20falsefull33EP 2: The Power of ONE Single ActionEP 2: The Power of ONE Single ActionCheryl McDonald delivers a compelling reminder that real growth begins with one intentional step. In this episode of Unleashed Potential, she shares how returning to piano practice after years away revealed the power of breaking big goals into small, doable actions. Drawing on Gary Keller’s The One Thing, Cheryl shows how focusing on a single meaningful task creates momentum, clarity, and confidence. Her story becomes a motivating blueprint for listeners ready to simplify their approach, commit to themselves, and finally move forward with purpose.

Go to cherylmcdonald.com and download the FREE What Am I Not Seeing Reflection.

]]>Cheryl McDonald delivers a compelling reminder that real growth begins with one intentional step. In this episode of Unleashed Potential, she shares how returning to piano practice after years away revealed the power of breaking big goals into small, doable actions. Drawing on Gary Keller’s The One Thing, Cheryl shows how focusing on a single meaningful task creates momentum, clarity, and confidence. Her story becomes a motivating blueprint for listeners ready to simplify their approach, commit to themselves, and finally move forward with purpose.

Go to cherylmcdonald.com and download the FREE What Am I Not Seeing Reflection.

]]>b4c5cc20-0fc2-4f32-9d53-6a02baef520dFri, 28 Aug 2026 10:15:00 -050016:48falsefull22EP 1: Unleash Your Potential: Empower Your Mind and Develop Your Skill SetEP 1: Unleash Your Potential: Empower Your Mind and Develop Your Skill SetThis is the launch of Cheryl McDonald's newly re-ignited podcast 'Unleashed Potential', where she discusses the importance of transformation and taking small steps towards achieving goals. Cheryl emphasizes breaking down big tasks into manageable steps to avoid overwhelming the brain's protection mode. This episode encourages listeners to identify their goals, start with the end in mind, and take consistent action, even if it's a tiny step each day.

Go to cherylmcdonald.com and download her FREE What Am I Not Seeing Reflection Guide.

]]>This is the launch of Cheryl McDonald's newly re-ignited podcast 'Unleashed Potential', where she discusses the importance of transformation and taking small steps towards achieving goals. Cheryl emphasizes breaking down big tasks into manageable steps to avoid overwhelming the brain's protection mode. This episode encourages listeners to identify their goals, start with the end in mind, and take consistent action, even if it's a tiny step each day.

Go to cherylmcdonald.com and download her FREE What Am I Not Seeing Reflection Guide.

]]>6adf263e-e086-4bd7-861e-68473a329f6eFri, 28 Aug 2026 10:05:00 -050010:56falsefull11Unleashed Potential: Official TrailerUnleashed Potential: Official TrailerWhat if the thing keeping you stuck isn't the problem you think it is? On Unleashed Potential, Cheryl McDonald, helps you explore the assumptions, habits, stories, and blind spots that quietly shape your decisions and your results. If you're ready to look deeper, download the free, What Am I Not Seeing Reflection Guide. It's designed to help you identify what may be influencing your next decision, challenge the story behind it, and choose a more intentional next step. Listen to Unleashed Potential, then get your free guide and ask yourself, What am I not seeing? Visit CherylMcDonald.com for more resources, insight, coaching, and ways to continue the work.

]]>What if the thing keeping you stuck isn't the problem you think it is? On Unleashed Potential, Cheryl McDonald, helps you explore the assumptions, habits, stories, and blind spots that quietly shape your decisions and your results. If you're ready to look deeper, download the free, What Am I Not Seeing Reflection Guide. It's designed to help you identify what may be influencing your next decision, challenge the story behind it, and choose a more intentional next step. Listen to Unleashed Potential, then get your free guide and ask yourself, What am I not seeing? Visit CherylMcDonald.com for more resources, insight, coaching, and ways to continue the work.

]]>11a33676-9a8b-4c9b-8c4a-605171c8b523Fri, 28 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -050000:56falsefull