Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Optimized Mind
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navigating Trauma with Dr. Jenny Hughes | 10 juin 2025 | 00:26:19 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate sits down with psychologist, Dr. Jenny Hughes. The conversation explores grief, both in traditional forms and as it relates to lost opportunities and changes brought by trauma. Dr. Hughes illustrates how trauma often manifests through physical sensations and patterns in the body. She introduces brain spotting, a somatic therapeutic approach which helps heal deeply rooted trauma. Jenny Hughes, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. As a clinician, she practices Brainspotting, EMDR, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. Jenny is the author of The PTSD Recovery Workbook and Triggers to Glimmers: A Vicarious Resilience Journal and Workbook. As a leader in the field of vicarious trauma and resilience, Jenny serves trauma therapists, helpers, and healers as the founder of The BRAVE Trauma Therapist Collective. Jenny helps trauma therapists be human again and become more aware of how to identify and manage vicarious trauma, enhance vicarious resilience, and connect and grow through community. To learn more about Dr. Jenny, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Futures Thinking and Resilience with Donna Dupont | 03 juin 2025 | 00:29:45 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by Donna Dupont, an award-winning designer, futurist, and the Founder of Purple Compass. The discussion focuses on her unique journey from healthcare to futures and foresight. Donna shares how her early work as a respiratory therapist, especially during the SARS crisis, shaped her interest in large-scale health system planning, public policy, and emergency management. She highlights the importance of anticipating long-term change and system vulnerabilities rather than just responding to emergencies. Donna Dupont, is an award-winning designer, futurist, and the Founder of Purple Compass. With over 25 years of experience collaborating with leaders in healthcare, public safety, defense, and security, she helps organizations develop future literacy skills to navigate uncertainty and lead change in today’s complex world. Donna integrates theory and practice to enhance anticipatory and adaptive capabilities, strategic intelligence, and agility, driving impactful future policy and strategic planning. A former healthcare professional, provincial policy advisor, and emergency manager, Donna is deeply passionate about applying foresight to strengthen decision-making, mitigate future risks, and enhance preparedness and adaptive capacity. Her work empowers organizations to seize opportunities for innovation, transformation, and resilience. Donna’s unique approach combines systems thinking and strategic foresight, leveraging both quantitative and qualitative insights to identify patterns and anticipate change over time. Her extensive portfolio includes advancing insights on climate-risk, international development, environmental and civil security, health and human security, and national defense.Recognized for her exceptional achievements, Donna has received seven government awards for excellence in policy, strategy, and partner relations. Her acclaimed futures research, Anticipation in Emergency Management (2020), earned awards from the Canadian Defence and Security Network and the Association of Professional Futurists. Donna holds a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight & Innovation from OCAD University. To learn more about Donna, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Technology, Impact, and Real-Life Change with Dr. Jennifer Gentile | 27 mai 2025 | 00:30:49 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by Dr. Jennifer Gentile for a conversation exploring the evolution of mental health care, innovations in digital health technology, and the challenges of balancing a purposeful career with family life. Dr. Gentile shares her career journey from clinical psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School to her groundbreaking work in digital mental health. Dr. Jennifer Gentile is a thought leader and mental healthcare innovator with more than 10 years of experience in telehealth and digital health and is committed to improving access and quality in mental healthcare. In her most recent role as SVP, Clinical Innovation at ieso, a digital mental healthcare company, she collaborated with clinical and academic researchers to improve access, outcomes, and engagement in mental healthcare. As a practicing clinical psychologist since 2008 at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Jennifer maintains a deep understanding of the urgent needs for effective mental healthcare. Jennifer led the clinical efforts to found Amwell’s 50 state teletherapy offering. Her focus areas are translating data insights into actionable interventions to improve care, using AI and machine learning to improve the quality of therapy, scaling digital and human lead mental health intervention, and oversight of large clinical networks. Jennifer has a frequent guest speaker at national and international industry and academic conferences organized by the Tufts School of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, the American Psychological Association, NODE.Health, the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, World Medical Innovation Forum, and others. To learn more about Jennifer, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Understanding Grief with Martina Faulkner | 20 mai 2025 | 00:28:46 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by cross-genre author Martina Faulkner. They delve into the complex and universal experience of grief. Martina shares the inspiration and process behind her new book, Understanding Grief, which is part of a larger series exploring foundational human experiences. The conversation highlights how grief is a universal emotion, yet always profoundly unique. Martina E. Faulkner is a cross-genre author whose work focuses primarily on exploring what it means to be human—both the unique and the universal. She holds a trifecta in the mental health/healing world as a therapist, certified life coach, and Reiki Master Teacher. This distinctive background allows her to draw on her professional and personal experience in her writing, whether fiction, nonfiction, children’s, or poetry. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Embracing Authenticity with Sheila Buswell | 13 mai 2025 | 00:31:56 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Sheila Buswell. The discussion focuses on Sheila's journey from the military to entrepreneurship, her creation of an upward mobility device, and the challenge of overcoming imposter syndrome. Central take-aways include the importance of not comparing oneself to others, recognizing and celebrating small wins, and trusting one's intuition. Sheila emphasizes how embracing her individuality and focusing on her strengths led her to solve real-world problems in innovative ways, despite the self-doubt and societal assumptions she faced along the way. Sheila Buswell is the CEO and Co-Founder of Buswell Biomedical, a group that focuses on achieving physical mobility through technology. In 1997, Sheila joined the army, and in 1998 a generator fell on her foot in Bosnia; 20 years later her Mom fell and broke her hip, and when she saw her mom battling the same problems she had it bothered her profusely. Her mom was in a rehabilitation hospital in Arizona for 3 weeks and went from 110 Pound to 99 pounds; she had to be accompanied for all the activities of daily living like toileting by a healthcare worker. She realized that it had been 20 years since her own accident, and nothing has changed in how people are treated in rehabilitation hospitals. After receiving a medical discharge in 2001, Sheila moved to Missouri to continue her education, earning a BS in Mechanical Engineering in 2005 from Missouri University of Science and Technology (then UMR). Sheila also holds an MS in Biomedical Engineering from Saint Louis University. Sheila developed the concept for the Upward Mobility (UPMO) in 2018 to help improve quality of life at rehabilitation centers. Sheila’s goal today is for people to start thinking of AI as a way to solve problems and a tool at our disposal, instead of fearing it. Sheila is also the author of Is This Seat For Me? which shares the stories of a diverse group of accomplished individuals who struggled with self- doubt and found ways to overcome it. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Exploring Resilience and Strength with Professor MS Rao | 06 mai 2025 | 00:20:45 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate speaks with Professor MS Rao about his compelling journey of perseverance and resilience. They delve into Professor Rao's forthcoming memoir, which reflects a slice of his life story, entwined with the challenges he faced, including a brain stroke and other health struggles. Despite these hurdles, Professor Rao has managed to write numerous books and hopes to inspire readers with his message of never giving up. Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. is the Father of “Soft Leadership” and the Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India. He is a 21th-century philosopher, an International Leadership Guru with forty-three years of experience, and the author of fifty-three books including the award-winning ‘See the Light in You’ URL: Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. is a columnist and an author-at-large at Entrepreneur. He has published over 300 papers and articles in prestigious international publications including Leader to Leader, Thunderbird International Business Review, Strategic HR Review, Development and Learning in Organizations, Industrial and Commercial Training, On the Horizon, and Entrepreneur magazine. He is a soldier, entrepreneur, editor, educator, author, explorer, enlightener, thinker, writer, researcher, mentor, motivator, professor, reformer, traveler, blogger, storyteller, volunteer, activist, futurist, analyst, strategist, and coach. He is a C-Suite advisor and global keynote speaker. He brings a strategic eye and long-range vision given his multifaceted professional experience including military, teaching, training, research, consultancy, and philosophy. He is passionate about serving and making a difference in the lives of others. He trains a new generation of leaders through leadership education and publications. He hopes to build one million students as global leaders by 2030 URL: professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com/2014/12/professor-m-s-raos-vision-2030 He volunteers peace activities, advocates gender equality (#HeForShe), and builds students globally. He invests his time in authoring books and blogging on executive education, learning, and leadership. Most of his work is free of charge on his four blogs including professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com. He is a prolific author and a dynamic, energetic, and inspirational leadership speaker. He can be reached at msrlctrg@gmail.com. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Building Resilient Leaders with Marie Deveaux | 29 avr. 2025 | 00:28:28 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by Marie Deveaux, an accomplished leadership coach and founder of High Tides Consulting. Marie shares her journey from working in the education sector to focusing on leadership development and facilitating dialogues in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of communication in leadership and how her practice aims to instill inclusive leadership in organizations through learning experiences. Marie Deveaux is a 3rd generation entrepreneur, a life-long wealth builder and perpetual dream-chaser. From creative real estate to social work, Marie has dabbled in a little bit of everything in her own path to self-discovery. She has worked in training, personal development and education for over 10 years. Marie’s passion is helping others find their wave and then exceed even their own expectations. To learn more about Marie, please visit: Website: Leadership Assessment: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| The Power of Adaptability in Business with Jarid Beck | 22 avr. 2025 | 00:31:35 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate sits down with Jarid Beck, co-founder of Risk Management Advisors. They dive into Jarid's journey from aspiring stockbroker to entrepreneur in the niche field of captive insurance. Jarid shares the trials and triumphs of building a successful business alongside maintaining a balanced personal life. The conversation highlights the importance of flexibility, resilience, and adapting to unexpected challenges. Additionally, Jarid imparts insights about the evolving nature of success and happiness in business and life, emphasizing continuous growth, purpose, and the significance of meaningful connections. As director & co-founder of Risk Management Advisors, Jarid specializes in alternative risk management strategies like self-insured plans and captive insurance companies. With expertise spanning industries such as construction, real estate, and finance, he holds the ACI and CRIS designations. A recognized authority on using captives to reduce group medical benefit costs, Jarid's insights are essential for business leaders, CFOs, and HR professionals looking to optimize insurance solutions. To learn more about Jarid, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Understanding Karma with Martina Faulkner | 15 avr. 2025 | 00:32:03 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by a cross-genre author whose work focuses primarily on what it means to be human. They delve into the topic of karma, discussing its role as a universal law. Martina emphasizes that karma isn't about good or bad, but rather about understanding the consequences of actions and the accountability that comes with them. She shares insightful tools for healing karma and stresses the empowering potential of perspective shifts, which can drive personal growth and resilience. Martina E. Faulkner is a cross-genre author whose work focuses primarily on exploring what it means to be human—both the unique and the universal. She holds a trifecta in the mental health/healing world as a therapist, certified life coach, and Reiki Master Teacher. This distinctive background allows her to draw on her professional and personal experience in her writing, whether fiction, nonfiction, children’s, or poetry. A self-proclaimed Anglophile, Martina drinks tea daily, loves walks in nature, and enjoys looking at beautiful images from the British Isles while dreaming up her next book. You can read her regular column Unique and Universal on Substack, follow her on Instagram and Facebook @martinaefaulkner or visit martinaefaulkner.com to learn more. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Navigating ADHD with Evan Kirstein | 08 avr. 2025 | 00:35:41 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by executive coach and public speaker Evan Kirstein. Evan shares his journey to becoming an executive coach with a focus on helping those with ADHD to optimize their lives across domains. Through the discussion, Evan highlights strategies to help clients identify their strengths, redefine their narratives, and flourish within their unique contexts. He emphasizes the role of empathy and understanding in nurturing the self and enriching relationships, both in personal and professional settings. Evan Kirstein is an executive coach, public speaker, and thought leader who is passionate about empowering leaders through neurodiversity and inclusive growth. As the founder of Progressive Growth Coaching, Evan has dedicated over a decade to helping organizations, managers, and teams unlock their full potential by fostering leadership excellence and people-centered development. Evan’s credentials, including certifications in PCC, CACP, CEC, and Hogan Assessment, highlight his deep expertise in leadership coaching and talent development. He has worked with leaders from globally recognized organizations such as Barclays, Spotify, and Peloton, guiding them through the complexities of effective leadership, team communication, and performance improvement. His coaching is tailored to inspire engagement and drive productivity, helping leaders navigate real-world challenges with clarity and confidence. A sought-after speaker, Evan’s presentations are dynamic, actionable, and grounded in lived experience. He frequently addresses topics such as creating neurodiverse-friendly workplaces and equipping managers with strategies to build high-performing, inclusive teams. Through his keynotes, workshops, and training sessions, Evan empowers organizations to embrace innovation, foster psychological safety, and drive sustained success. As an advocate for ADHD awareness and neurodiversity, Evan draws from his own journey to inspire others. His authenticity, humor, and relatability resonate with audiences, creating a memorable and motivational experience. Evan’s mission is to help others recognize that neurodiversity is not a limitation but a source of strength and creativity. To learn more about Evan, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Life, Business, and Resilience with Christiane Constantineau | 01 avr. 2025 | 00:31:41 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Christiane Constantineau. The discussion focuses on navigating personal and professional challenges, particularly in the face of a cancer diagnosis. Central take-aways include the importance of breaking down overwhelming obstacles into manageable steps, maintaining focus on personal values, and prioritizing self-care. Christiane Constantineau is a Canadian-based C-Level Executive, CFO-to-hire, Cash flow expert, and Entrepreneur known for her unwavering integrity, outspoken nature, and client-centered approach, which have earned her the reputation of a strategic leader. Christiane is a woman of action, unafraid to tackle any challenge, whether it's walking down a 12-story building, facing the street, or walking on the edge of the CN Tower. Nothing could have prepared her for the Stage 3C breast cancer diagnosis she received in 2019, just months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. For Christiane, helping others is an end in itself. She recognizes the need for entrepreneurs to stop and create a strategic plan to protect their businesses from collapsing or suffering significant setbacks. She wrote the book - Cancer Sucks...: The Journey of an Entrepreneur and Her Fight Against Cancer While Running Her Business and published it in 2023. Her book focuses specifically on entrepreneurs, but is also relevant to anyone battling a long-term, chronic illness that requires months or more of healing. It shares her personal story and proposes a strategy that combines business management with healing. In 2023, Christiane made the decision to sell her business to her favorite employee, her youngest son. Despite this transition, she remains actively engaged with clients from around the world, serving as a CFO or finance director with one foot in Canada and the other in the global business landscape. www.amazon.com/Cancer-Sucks-Journey-Entrepreneur-Business-ebook To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Transforming Mindset with Dr. Lucette Beal | 25 mars 2025 | 00:31:07 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Dr. Lucette Beal. The discussion focuses on mindset transformation and personal empowerment. Central take-aways include the importance of developing a positive mindset through consistent appreciation practices, understanding and flipping negative mental scripts, and living from the inside out to unlock personal potential. Dr. Lucette, a veterinarian with over three decades of experience, has seamlessly transitioned her passion for healing from the animal kingdom to the human realm. Inspired by the resilience she witnessed in animals and empowered by her own journey of overcoming adversity, including navigating divorce, cancer, and financial hardship, Dr. Lucette founded a consulting company dedicated to personal transformation. Drawing upon her deep understanding of health, well-being, and the human-animal bond, she developed the Reverse, Reframe, Rebuild program, empowering individuals to identify and dismantle limiting beliefs, reframe challenges as opportunities for growth, and cultivate a mindset of resilience, confidence, and self-trust. Dr. Lucette emphasizes living from within, encouraging clients to prioritize self-trust, make decisions aligned with their authentic selves, and develop a strong sense of personal agency. By seamlessly integrating her medical expertise with powerful coaching techniques, she guides clients to improve their mindset, reduce stress, and create a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. Dr. Lucette is a mindset expert, coach, international speaker and best selling author. Free Appreciation Journal: Vision Mapping Guide Downloadable PDF with guidance on how to The Reframe Game Worksheet Healing Workshop To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Lessons in Resilience with Jason Shupp | 18 mars 2025 | 00:39:15 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by podcast host and speaker Jason Shupp. The discussion focuses on Jason's eclectic career path and the resilience built through his diverse experiences. Central take-aways include the importance of being present, managing stress through both high-adrenaline hobbies and meditation, and finding success in well-being and contentment. Jason Shupp is a podcast host, speaker, and empathic collaborator. Jason’s early professional life was quite diverse (EMT in Colorado, white water raft guide, snowmobile tour guide, martial arts instructor, and high works rigger) before entering the family business in the third generation. After nearly two decades of leading a legacy business, a strategic partnership allowed for his further pursuit into multi-media and creative projects. He leverages these platforms to share context and nuance to foster a deeper understanding of individuals and ideas. Jason spends the rest of his time as a devoted husband and father, pursuing wellness, travel, and rigorous outdoor play. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Overcoming Fear and Building Success with Kaneshi Hart | 11 mars 2025 | 00:41:55 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Kate talks with Kaneshi Hart. The discussion focuses on Kaneshi's journey from the corporate world to becoming a successful podcast host and speaker. Central take-aways include the importance of building robust systems, the power of authenticity in achieving success, and practical strategies to overcome fear and enhance resilience. Kaneshi emphasizes the significance of client retention, having a solid client onboarding process, and the value of continual personal and professional development. Additionally, she shares her insights on maintaining optimism and gratitude as foundational principles for a resilient lifestyle. Playing collegiate Division I basketball at the University of Memphis on full athletic and partial academic scholarships, Kaneshi had many advantages as she stepped into the world of working. Her success on the court followed her into the corporate world where she quickly moved into high levels of leadership within the companies where she worked, managing hundreds of employees and responsible for millions of dollars in revenue. But setbacks sabotaged that success. In the span of a few short years later in Kaneshi's career, she was laid off three times while dealing with a toxic personal relationship and a toxic leader at her job. These life ambushes shattered Kaneshi’s confidence and left her feeling fearful about whether life would ever get back on track. Today, by the grace of God, Kaneshi is a business owner, the founder and host of Build a Better Business Podcast, a speaker, and educator. She’s known the fears that can be debilitating when facing different life situations and she feels called to teach others how to forge through those fears, as she has, to create the future they want to see. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Transforming Corporate Culture with Kyle McDowell | 04 mars 2025 | 00:29:38 | |
In this captivating episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate welcomes Kyle McDowell, an inspiring and seasoned leader. Kyle shares the transformative power of his book, "Begin with We," and the profound impact of the 10 “We” principles on organizational culture and beyond. Kyle reflects on the journey that led him to notice an increasing sense of apathy despite advancing in his career. Realizing the need for a cultural reset within his organization, Kyle developed the 10 We principles, which became a manifesto for positive change. He recounts the initial skepticism from his team and how consistency in living these principles eventually won people over, even transforming personal lives as highlighted by an attendee who mentioned how the principles changed his parenting approach. The episode delves into the importance of authenticity and consistency, both inside and outside of the workplace. Kyle emphasizes that his principles dictate how people treat one another and ensure high functioning behind the scenes, leading to greater success and fulfillment in professional environments. As a former Fortune 10 executive who led tens of thousands of employees around the globe, turned bestselling author, inspirational speaker, and leadership coach, I'm fueled by a passion for principle-based leadership and the transformative power of WE. My WSJ and USA Today bestselling book, "Begin With WE - 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence" lays the foundation for a collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership, grounded in ten guiding principles known as The 10 WEs. To learn more about Kyle, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Building Resilience and Trust in Franchising with Adam Goldman | 25 févr. 2025 | 00:28:32 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate is joined by franchise consultant and coach Adam Goldman to delve into the intricacies of franchising, his professional journey, and the lessons learned along the way. Chapters:
The nation’s top franchise coach and consultant, Adam Goldman, knows that even with well-paying jobs, there is one major problem in Corporate America: you can't pursue your own dreams while working for someone else. Franchising has allowed Adam, a father of three, to achieve his dreams. Over the past 9 years, Adam has helped hundreds of people to change their lives through franchise business ownership. He helps others find the right franchise for them and goes on to match them with the right opportunity in their area. During his 20-year career as a business investor and franchise consultant, Adam has founded three successful companies on two continents. These include an IT company in Poland and a real estate investment company in Texas. Most recently, he grew the Vanguard Cleaning Area Developer concept in Houston into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, generating over 30 franchisees and 300 customers, which he has now sold. In his latest book, The Franchisee Lifestyle, Adam interviews existing franchisees from diverse backgrounds about their journeys into independence. Demystifying the world of franchising, Adam’s book provides invaluable insights into the key factors that can make or break a franchise deal, helping readers avoid potential pitfalls and make informed decisions, as well as the unique benefits and opportunities of being part of a well-established brand. To learn more about Adam, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Exploring Soft Leadership with Professor MS Rao | 18 févr. 2025 | 00:23:14 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate welcomes Professor MS Rao back to the show. The two delve deeply into the evolution and development of soft leadership. Professor Rao explains how he blended principles from his PhD in soft skills with leadership theories to create a new leadership style. He highlights the importance of people skills, emotional intelligence, and collaboration while emphasizing that leaders must still maintain task orientation. Drawing on examples of renowned figures like Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, and Elon Musk, Professor Rao underscores that effective leadership can come in many forms, with both soft and hard attributes. Chapters:
Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. is the Father of “Soft Leadership” and the Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India. He is a 21th-century philosopher, an International Leadership Guru with forty-three years of experience, and the author of fifty-three books including the award-winning ‘See the Light in You’ URL: https://www.amazon.com/See-Light-You-Spiritual-Mindfulness/dp/1949003132. Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. volunteers peace activities, advocates gender equality (#HeForShe), and builds students globally. He invests his time in authoring books and blogging on executive education, learning, and leadership. Most of his work is free of charge on his four blogs including http://professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com. He is a prolific author and a dynamic, energetic, and inspirational leadership speaker. He can be reached at msrlctrg@gmail.com. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Pushing Boundaries with Brian Morgan | 11 févr. 2025 | 00:50:33 | |
In this engaging episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate sits down with Brian Morgan, a dedicated field sound mixer, business owner and endurance athlete, to delve into the parallels between ultra marathons, parenting, personal growth, and resilience. Together, they explore the many lessons learned from pushing physical boundaries and how this relates to nurturing resilient children. Chapters:
Brian Morgan is a dedicated field sound mixer and business owner who has made a significant impact in the Tampa film industry. Brian established his own sound production business in 2019 in Tampa, Florida and continues to travel the country making tv shows and commercials. He stays busy with his wife and 2 kids while also pursuing his passion for ultra distance racing. His commitment to his wife and 2 kids and his relentless pursuit of athletic challenges exemplify his belief in the power of perseverance. Brian views his racing challenges not only as a personal challenge but also as a way to connect with the local community and inspire others to pursue their own athletic goals. Connect with Brian Morgan Follow Brian on social media: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| The Power of Communication with Dr. Courtney Byrd | 04 févr. 2025 | 00:33:07 | |
Innovative Speech Language Pathologist Courtney Byrd joins Dr. Kate this week on The Optimized Mind. Dr. Byrd, an esteemed speech language pathologist who brings a wealth of experience and insight into the conversation. This episode dives deep into Byrd's 20-year journey in developing an innovative alternative treatment for stuttering, sparked by a poignant early experience during her college years. Byrd recounts how working with a teenage boy who stuttered left a lasting imprint on her career and motivated her to find more effective solutions. Tune in to this enlightening episode filled with insightful discussions, practical takeaways, and inspiring stories that highlight the critical intersection of communication, resilience, and understanding in the journey of those who stutter. Chapters:
Son's challenges inspire courage and resilience. Courtney Byrd is a Full Professor, Associate Chair, and Graduate Advisor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin, where she also serves as Founding and Executive Director of the newly established Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research, which has three core branches each of which she also founded and directs, including the Michael and Tami Lang Stuttering Institute, the Dealey Family Foundation Stuttering Clinic, and the Dr. Jennifer and Emanuel Bodner Developmental Stuttering Lab. She has over 100 peer-reviewed publications, and has dedicated her life's work to advancing understanding of the etiology across culturally and linguistically diverse populations, as well as improving treatment and training practices to better serve people who stutter. Connect with Dr. Courtney Byrd:
To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Child Life On Call with Katie Taylor | 28 janv. 2025 | 00:30:24 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with child life specialist and founder of Child Life On-Call Katie Taylor. The discussion focuses on the role of child life specialists in children’s hospitals. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the impact of trauma and hospitalization on children and ways to ease this stress for kids and parents; the evolution of Child Life On-Call – an app to support parents and empower them as they care for their hospitalized children, the importance of helping kids cope through hospitalization and the power of therapy dogs in hospitals. Katie Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call, a digital platform revolutionizing pediatric healthcare by putting parents at the center of the medical journey. With over 14 years of experience as a certified child life specialist, Katie has made significant contributions to the field of child life and the families she’s served with over a decade of working at the bedside. She is an accomplished author, engaging child life and entrepreneurship speaker, and the Child Life On Call Podcast host. Katie's work emphasizes the vital role of child life services in supporting caregivers and enhancing children's medical journeys. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Roadmap to a Successful Franchise with Ewell Smith | 21 janv. 2025 | 00:42:23 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with franchise expert Ewell Smith. The discussion focuses on Ewell’s book – Your First Franchise Roadmap, and the many possibilities for building a successful franchise. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the many paths for success in franchising and in life, the importance of mindset and goodness of fit as a successful franchise owner, and the power of relationships. Ewell Smith is the host of the CloseTheDeal.com Podcast, featuring special episodes of Your First Franchise, where he interviews franchisors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. He’s also the author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. As a seasoned franchise consultant, Ewell specializes in helping career professionals, corporate refugees, and veterans find their ideal franchise opportunities. With a strong background in executive leadership, Ewell previously served as Executive Director of the Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board, the Gulf Seafood Institute, and the Carolina Loggers Association, representing thousands of entrepreneurs over 17 years. He also created and emceed the Great American Seafood Cook-Off, a televised event featured on Food Network and PBS. Through his diverse experiences and commitment to empowering others through franchising, Ewell continues to support entrepreneurs on their path to success. To learn more about Ewell, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Prepping for Success with Anmol Singh | 14 janv. 2025 | 00:35:35 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with successful trader and author Anmol Singh. The discussion focuses on Anmol’s path to learning about the markets and developing a passion for trading which has evolved into a successful business. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the importance of managing mindset in trading and in life, the difference between knowing and doing and the importance of putting knowledge into action. Anmol highlights the core principles in his book – Prepping for Success throughout which focuses on optimizing mindset. The stock market is an emotional rollercoaster. The difference between profit and loss comes down to your understanding of how to make logical and fast decisions based on constantly changing data. This is where Anmol Singh comes in. He was born in Delhi, India and grew up as a patient and persistent individual. After completing his high school education, he went to Brunel University London with the strong determination to become something great. He started trading in his dorm and saved enough money to legally start multiple franchises and move to America. At the young age of 22, Anmol Singh was able to establish himself as a successful Trader and has been featured in major media outlets including Business Insider, Forbes, and International Business Times. Today, he and his team at Live Traders show people how to execute trades, review different scenarios, and most importantly, how to control your emotions when high stakes are on the line. To learn more about Anmol, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| The Power of Perspective with Cary Sparrow | 07 janv. 2025 | 00:25:53 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Cary Sparrow, founder and CEO of Wagescape, a company focused on labor market trends. The discussion focuses on Cary’s rich experiential history and career path which led him to starting Wagescape. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include transparency in the labor market, the value of experiential learning in work and in life, the ways in which access to the right information leads to organizational resilience, and the power of perspective. Cary helps HR professionals and consulting firms to predict the future of pay. He is also a former US Navy officer who served on several nuclear submarines. 35+ years (combined) of engineering, military, consulting, technology and operations leadership in achieving organizational growth makes him a guest of value to HR leaders and other decision-makers wanting to navigate the labor market, in today's rapidly-growing access to remote work and digital promptness. To learn more about Cary Sparrow, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Living in Your Zone of Genius with Akash Rupareliaa | 31 déc. 2024 | 00:28:58 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with entrepreneur Akash Rupareliaa. The discussion focuses on the ways in which Akash and his team serve others by helping entrepreneurs build their businesses and gain visibility in a way which helps them to create a massive impact for those they work with. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include the importance of a service mindset and living in your zone of genius, lessons learned while living as a monk, the connection between purpose and success and the power of the subconscious mind. Akash’s journey is a masterclass in transformation, resilience, and purpose. He took the unexpected route from being a party boy to a monk, ultimately channeling his deepest heartbreak into the creation of a thriving social media empire that now generates millions. Along the way, he learned the true meaning of confidence, and now he is on a mission to make spirituality and deeper thinking not just accessible, but undeniably cool. His remarkable achievements speak for themselves: Built a successful social media agency worth millions. Dropped out of a top global university to pursue a life of purpose and empowered countless individuals to elevate their lives through spiritual and entrepreneurial insights. Blended ancient wisdom with modern success, showing that inner growth is the true foundation of business triumph. He is also an Ambassador & Trustee to FoodforallUK, distributing 100,000+ warm meals to homeless people in the UK and refugees around the world, including places like Syria and Ukraine. His unconventional journey demystifies spirituality and success, blending them into a powerful force for personal and professional growth. Book Akash for an electrifying discussion on turning life’s challenges into triumph, building confidence, and making the world think deeper—while elevating their own lives and businesses. To learn more about Akash Rupareliaa, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| See The Light in You with Professor M.S. Rao | 24 déc. 2024 | 00:28:52 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with researcher and author Professor MS Rao. The discussion focuses on Professor Rao’s most recent book See the Light In You, along with his more general ideas on resilience and overcoming challenges. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the power of perseverance, the ways in which spirituality relates to well-being, the reality that happiness lies within and the importance of living in the moment. Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. is the Father of “Soft Leadership” and the Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India. He is a 21th-century philosopher, an International Leadership Guru with forty-three years of experience, and the author of fifty-three books including the award-winning ‘See the Light in You’ URL: https://www.amazon.com/See-Light-You-Spiritual-Mindfulness/dp/1949003132. He is a columnist and an author-at-large at Entrepreneur. He has published over 300 papers and articles in prestigious international publications including Leader to Leader, Thunderbird International Business Review, Strategic HR Review, Development and Learning in Organizations, Industrial and Commercial Training, On the Horizon, and Entrepreneur magazine. He is a soldier, entrepreneur, editor, educator, author, explorer, enlightener, thinker, writer, researcher, mentor, motivator, professor, reformer, traveler, blogger, storyteller, volunteer, activist, futurist, analyst, strategist, and coach. He is a C-Suite advisor and global keynote speaker. He brings a strategic eye and long-range vision given his multifaceted professional experience including military, teaching, training, research, consultancy, and philosophy. He is passionate about serving and making a difference in the lives of others. He trains a new generation of leaders through leadership education and publications. He hopes to build one million students as global leaders by 2030 URL: http://professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com/2014/12/professor-m-s-raos-vision-2030-one_31.html. He volunteers peace activities, advocates gender equality (#HeForShe), and builds students globally. He invests his time in authoring books and blogging on executive education, learning, and leadership. Most of his work is free of charge on his four blogs including http://professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com. He is a prolific author and a dynamic, energetic, and inspirational leadership speaker. He can be reached at msrlctrg@gmail.com. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Mastering the Subconscious Mind with Luann Horobin | 17 déc. 2024 | 00:24:05 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with executive and leadership coach Luann Horobin. The discussion focuses on Luann’s path to coaching from a career in healthcare. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include the ways in which difficult experiences can lead to breakthroughs for people wanting to change, the power of the subconscious mind, overcoming limiting beliefs and the ways we can do that. Luann is a native Albertan, one of 1600 ICF Master Coaches, Executive and Leadership Coach, Career Accelerator, and Transformational Consultant. Work ethic and community were key values, instilled in early childhood from the farm, that have been lifelong guiding principles. Yet when facing life and career transitions, a pivotal point was learning how to get what and where one wants. That's not about working harder, with less stress.
As an avid learner, books, programs and learning from others were staples in life, but gave modest results, compared to mindset., Luann guides executives, business leaders and high performers to use mindset to achieve new ambitions, much quicker. In mere hours., Mindset methods can save years of stress, trial, and error.
Luann’s deep dive into the neuroscience of transformation, led to her custom formula of career and transformation coaching for life-altering breakthroughs in leadership presence, relatability, relationships, and meaningful work beyond one’s upper limits. New mindset programs bring ambitions to life, to be your best self, make better decisions, and put the zest in life, without stress.
Outside of work Luann loves being a mom, dog grandma, pickleball, dancing, running, nature, walking, family and friends. To learn more about Luann, please visit: www.linkedin.com/in/luannhorobin To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Fostering Trust with Dr. Darryl Stickel | 10 déc. 2024 | 00:39:50 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with trust expert and author Dr. Darryl Stickel. The discussion focuses on Darryl’s path to building a business focused on building trust. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include overcoming early challenges and setbacks and how this often fosters empathy and an understanding of others, how people learn to trust and why this is so important, how to help our kids build trust and the relationship between resilience and trust. Darryl is one of the world’s leading experts on trust. He helps high-level and executive leaders cultivate true growth and productivity in their businesses through an action-based practice of modeling vulnerability in order to improve communication and employee investment in their business. Darryl teaches leaders how to find and use their most powerful tool that is always in their control: how to effectively build trust in their relationships. Darryl is an unshakable force of positivity and brings the best out of people. His personal trials have strengthened his resolve and character to be a positive force for Trust. He believes in a bright future and our ability to build it together. Described as a “Trust Savant” his ability to see clearly into trust problems, diagnose them and create a path to move forward for individuals, teams and organizations is remarkable. His Trust model is both simple and insightful. His practical experience and deep knowledge of trust make him a powerful thought partner and ally for individuals at the highest level of organizations. To learn more about Darryl, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Disability as a Superpower with Lindsey Mazza | 03 déc. 2024 | 00:37:37 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Lindsey Mazza, attorney turned coach, speaker and disability advocate. The discussion focuses on Lindsey’s transition from law to coaching and speaking. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the idea of disability as a superpower and why the process of integrating difference into sense of self and identity over time is so important, vulnerability and the power of authentic connection, the importance of exposing kids to the idea of appreciating and embracing individual difference and the unique lens of disability. Lindsey is an entrepreneurial lawyer turned leadership catalyst and keynote speaker. She knows all about what the power of self- advocacy can do to transform your calling and your future. Having been born with a physical disability that has affected all aspects of her life, she has tapped into the power of her own voice to change her narrative so that others can step into their true purpose. After dedicating a life to serve others through advocacy, Lindsey is now taking her story to center stage where her calling has led to a desire to impact as many people as possible through her own resilience, passion and intuition. If you are looking to make an unexpected personal breakthrough or step into the spotlight of your own life, Lindsey’s words will leave a prominent lasting impression. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Congruent Living with Susan Lazar Hart | 26 nov. 2024 | 00:31:04 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with mindset coach and speaker Susan Lazar Hart. The discussion focuses on how Susan’s path to coaching evolved over time through a vast array of experiences. Central themes which emerge through the conversation include the benefits and power of multiple experiences in shaping who we become, the power of congruent living in helping people to carve their authentic path, the importance of cultivating self-awareness in mind and body, the power of flexible thinking and the idea of living in the question. Susan Lazar Hart has always had a different way of seeing the world, which is a catalyst that sparks curiosity and fosters sustainable change for her clients. As a transformational mindset coach and speaker, she has worked with thousands of women worldwide to change their thoughts, beliefs, and habits so they create a congruent life full of possibilities. Susan founded the Congruent Living Method and Academy and is the author of her newest book, “Breaking Free: Your Unique Path to Fearless Living.” By integrating breakthrough coaching tools, spiritual principles, and accountability, Susan empowers women in midlife to create the life they’ve always longed for! To learn more about Susan, please visit: Link to her book - Breaking Free: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| A Transplant Journey with Dan Bonner | 19 nov. 2024 | 00:43:36 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with healthcare advocate and liver transplant survivor Dan Bonner. The discussion focuses on Dan’s journey from first getting sick through his liver transplant and beyond. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include making sense of life- threatening illness, the physical and emotional experience of transplant and recovery, the complexities of navigating the medical system, the spiritual aspects of the transplant experience, and the complex and powerful connection with donor families. Dan Bonner is currently 51 and living at the New Jersey Shore. He was diagnosed with a chronic illness at the age of 24 and a debilitating liver disease at age 29. While Dan was not in immediate danger, the liver disease would progress, and he would one day need a liver transplant to survive. On March 12, 2005, Dan received that life-saving liver transplant, which gave him a second chance to fulfill his life’s dreams. Approximately 16 months after his transplant, Dan married the love of his life, Sue, and the two began a new journey together. In 2011, Dan self-published a book;Gifted: An Extraordinary Journey Through Illness and Liver Transplantation. Sharing the story of his medical journey leading up to and receiving his transplant. Then, after retiring from a corporate career in February of 2024, Dan embarked on starting his own business, Aegis Health Advocacy, to be a patient advocate that empowers patients, guides healthcare clinicians, and interacts with corporations and government agencies to promote a compassionate healthcare experience for all patients. In addition to running his business, Dan is a powerful keynote speaker that uses humor and empathy to engage others in promoting. With a mission to help patients on their medical journeys “one person at a time,” Dan has transitioned from a survivor to a professional advocate who is passionate about improving patient outcomes. He leverages his unique insights to educate healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and patient advocacy groups, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to patient care. Dan’s work extends beyond one-on-one advocacy; he is also an engaging keynote speaker and consultant who collaborates with medical organizations to develop protocols that prioritize the patient experience. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Optimizing Health with Dr. John Lewis | 12 nov. 2024 | 00:27:02 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with entrepreneur and researcher Dr. John Lewis. The discussion focuses on Dr. Lewis’ recent research findings on the benefits of polysaccharides on health and well-being with emphasis on the benefits for those with neurodegenerative conditions. Central themes which emerge through the conversation focus on the ways in which rebalancing the immune system can boost cognitive function and the innate power of the human body to heal itself when given the proper fuel. John E. Lewis, Ph.D. is the Founder and President of Dr Lewis Nutrition and past full-time and current Voluntary Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He is a Diplomate, Faculty Member, and Advisor of the Medical Wellness Association. He has been the principal investigator of over 30 different studies in his research career, focusing on evaluating the effects of nutrition, dietary supplementation, and exercise on various aspects of human health. Dr. Lewis has been an invited national and international lecturer at conferences and as a guest on television shows, where he discusses not only the findings of his research, but provides guidance and recommendations as a health expert. He has over 180 peer-reviewed publications in some of the world’s leading scientific journals. A seminal publication from his Alzheimer’s study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, not only spurred him to leave academics and pursue a science-based business career, but also enabled him to be selected for a widely-acclaimed TEDxMiami talk about how dietary supplementation can improve brain health. Dr. Lewis embodies the model of health by eating a whole-food, plant- based diet for over 26 years, taking certain key dietary supplements, and through a rigorous, daily exercise training program. John has a passion for educating others about the value of nutrition, exercise, and health, and he will continue to study the application of clinical nutrition for the benefit of mankind. To learn more about Dr. John, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Leveling Up with Peggy Van Der Plassche | 05 nov. 2024 | 00:33:50 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with personal development coach Peggy Van De Plassche. The discussion focuses on the power of microdosing in stress, anxiety and mood management, performance and productivity. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include Peggy’s 90-day plan for integrating microdosing into one’s lifestyle in a safe and effective way, the importance of calming the nervous system, and moving out of fight or flight as a catalyst for changing mindset. After spending over 20 years in the financial services and technology industries, Peggy Van de Plassche pivoted her activities to help entrepreneurs and corporate executives level up their well-being and performance through the use of psilocybin and alternative modalities; The Microdose Diet - a 90 Day Plan for Success and Happiness. For many, top performance comes at the expense of mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and stress are widespread among entrepreneurs and corporate executives. We’re not conditioned to think of mental wellness as a critical part of high performance, however it is the number one component that prevents top performers from reaching their peak potential. Peggy has experienced the highs and lows of the corporate world and is now helping countless professionals access their best self in the most effortless way. Using her comprehensive background as a banker and venture capitalist, combined with her extensive experience with the medicinal powers of psilocybin, Peggy brings credibility and connection with the most skeptical crowds of all genders, ages, and occupations. Success doesn’t depend on how many hours you put into the office. Thanks to The Microdose Diet, entrepreneurs and executives experience greater levels of success and happiness, giving them the keys to increased life satisfaction. With The Microdose Diet, Peggy’s facilitates growth that will exponentially increase productivity and performance in a healthy, balanced way, accessing an entirely new level of your life. To learn more about Peggy, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Believing You Can with Megan Hanewald | 29 oct. 2024 | 00:47:46 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with personal development coach and educator Megan Hanewald. The discussion focuses on Megan’s path into the coaching and education space and how she built on this passion to help others maximize their own potential in sports and in life. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the idea that it is never too late to become an athlete, the importance of following your passion in sports and life, the ways that lessons from sports can transfer across domains, the importance of believing that you can … whatever can means to you, the importance of authenticity and vulnerability and the power of focusing on the process not just the outcome in sports and life. Megan has been in the coaching and teaching space for 28 years, with the past 14 years being dedicated solely to coaching and training adults. Megan started her career as an independent school-teacher and coach, hopped into the corporate world for nearly a decade and returned to her passion of coaching full time in 2018. As the founder of the program "Thrive Through Midlife", a holistic group coaching program that optimizes fitness and nutrition for women as they approach and navigate menopause, Megan is dedicated to helping women understand their body's changes and shift their actions and thoughts to serve their bodies during this time. Megan is a competitive rower and triathlete in Chattanooga, TN and has a daughter in the 8th grade. To learn more about Megan, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Creating Clarity and Peace with Holly McNeill | 22 oct. 2024 | 00:32:42 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with mindfulness architect Holly McNeill. The discussion focuses on Holly’s evolution from exhausted and burned out to thriving within the context of life and business. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the reality that we are not our emotions, thoughts and feelings, the ways in which the P.E.R.L.O.V.E Formula helps people to create clarity, peace and ultimately positive change. Holly is a seasoned architect with 26 years of experience managing global projects, including billion-dollar hospitals. Alongside her career, she embarked on a 20-year transformative spiritual journey into how the mind works, studying neuroscience, psychology, spirituality, and Buddhism. This journey led to the creation of the P.E.R.L.O.V.E. Formula, a set of mindfulness practices that teaches people to pay attention to the hidden influences of the body and mind from moment to moment, helping them unravel destructive thoughts and patterns and make room for positive change. Now known as the Mindfulness Architect, Holly shares the power of Paying Attention, helping individuals break free from autopilot living to create a life of clarity, peace, and joy. To learn more about Holly, please visit: facebook.com/groups/mindfulnessblueprints To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Cultivating Positive Change with Gina Schaefer | 15 oct. 2024 | 00:36:54 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate welcomes author and professional speaker Gina Schaefer back to celebrate the launch of the show’s third year. The discussion focuses on Gina’s shift into the professional speaking world after transitioning out of The Hardware Business she built over the past 20 years. Central themes which emerge through the conversation include the power of speaking for impact, the importance of never underestimating our potential or possibility, and of trusting yourself to take that first step forward, the power of curiosity and authentic human connection in business and in life. Gina Schaefer is the author of Recovery Hardware, a powerful memoir that highlights her journey of transforming communities and creating inclusive workplaces. As a dynamic keynote speaker, she captivates audiences with her compelling stories, actionable insights, and unwavering passion for positive change. Gina's mission is to empower others to build thriving businesses and vibrant communities, making her a sought-after speaker and thought leader. To learn more about Gina, please visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Disaster Preparedness with Patrick Hardy | 08 oct. 2024 | 00:39:38 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with emergency management expert, Patrick Hardy. The discussion focuses on Patrick’s path into emergency management and disaster preparedness and how this has evolved into a passion and thriving business. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the power of grit and perseverance, the importance of maintaining a sense of control and self-efficacy when disaster hits, the importance of eliminating dependencies in a disaster, and how to empower people to take action in a disaster. When disaster and disruption strike there are few voices in the world as knowledgeable as Patrick Hardy. Whether you’re reading his book Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency, or seeing his talks live, Patrick’s wealth of experience proves that he is the man with the plan to help you navigate and prevent disruptions. Not only is he a graduate of FEMA’s Advanced Academy, but Patrick has gone on to gain numerous certifications such as FEMA’s Master of Exercise®, Certified Emergency Manager®, Certified Risk Manager®, and Master Business Continuity Professional®. Drawing from his deep expertise in disaster preparedness and response, Patrick Hardy equips audiences with practical strategies to break the Crisis Creation Chain, educating people on how to eliminate disasters by turning disruptions into opportunities. Patrick actively collaborates across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to empower individuals to bolster their resilience and prevent minor disruptions from escalating into full-blown disasters. Having successfully led, managed, and advised teams around the globe through the greatest natural, technological, and security emergencies an organization or community can face, Patrick understands how proper leadership based on simple core principles can prevent a disaster from ever happening at all. His first book: Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency was released late Spring 2023. To learn more about Patrick, please visit: www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Clearing Trauma with Dr. Don Wood | 01 oct. 2024 | 00:48:44 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Dr. Don Wood, founder of The Inspired Performance Institute. The discussion focuses on Dr. Don’s path to developing a ground-breaking program to help people clear trauma, calm the mind and body and move towards potential. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the importance of fixing the problem (unresolved trauma) and not just treating the symptoms (anxiety, depression, inflammation, etc). The ways in which it is possible to reset how the mind deals with trauma and why this is so important in unlocking one’s ability to maximize performance and potential across domains, and the power in the mind’s ability to default to strengths and focus on healing and not danger. Don Wood, a PhD in clinical counseling, author and the founder of Inspired Performance Institute, helps people reframe their trauma and get their lives to a place of high performance. After spending years researching how trauma affects our minds and our lives, Dr. Wood found that events and experiences throughout our lifetime continue to play a role in how we experience life in the present. www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Empowering Girls with Shannon Addison | 24 sept. 2024 | 00:40:09 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with entrepreneur and Mom, Shannon Addison. The discussion focuses on the evolution of Shannon’s brand – My Crumby World. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include – the importance of empowering girls towards kindness to combat bullying and mean girl behavior, the far reaching implications of bullying on the self-esteem and self-concept of girls, the importance of teaching girls to embrace and appreciate individual difference, the impact of social media on girls, the importance of creating connection with our kids through activities, and helping girls to embrace the importance of failing as part of the process of learning. Author Shannon Addison doesn’t consider herself a writer; she thinks of herself as someone who enjoys writing and has been doing so for most of her life. She finds inspiration for her writing through journaling, which she believes allows her to explore ideas without feeling constrained. Her love for journaling has inspired her to combine stories with journaling in her Breadcrumbz Presents format. Shannon believes that encouraging young girls to start journaling will help them express their feelings, address difficult questions, and receive positive messaging. Shannon's first story idea came from personal experience. While having lunch with her daughter at her school, she observed the interaction between girls at the next table and how easily and quietly they manipulated and bullied others without being noticed. This behavior was troubling and familiar to Shannon, prompting her to reflect on her own experiences at that age. She realized that little has changed in how young girls treat each other, and with today’s access to cell phones and social media, they have even more capable tools to inflict harm. This inspired Shannon to prepare girls for such conflicts and help them navigate them through better communication with parents and peers. Shannon hopes that her books’ stories and problem-solving packets enable young girls to deal with friendship, feelings, conflicts, and failures, empowering them in the process. Her aim is for young readers to relate to the characters in her stories, accept themselves and others, and find their true inner strength, kindness, and generosity of spirit. “My Crumby Guide to Baking and Friendship Making” is the second book in the Breadcrumbz Presents collection. The first book, “My Crumby Guide to Failing,” is currently available on Amazon. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Write with AI with Rob Kosberg | 17 sept. 2024 | 00:33:10 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Wall Street Journal bestselling author, and the founder of Best Seller Publishing Rob Kosberg. The discussion focuses on the evolution of Rob’s business, along with his new book Write with AI. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the advent of AI and how this can serve a powerful tool for authors if used in the correct ways, the difference between AI generated and AI assisted content, the power of book funnels in helping authors to build a business beyond their book, and the importance of integrating purpose and meaning across the domains of our lives. Rob Kosberg is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, and the founder of Best Seller Publishing. Rob’s Publish. Promote. Profit.™ book and system have been used by tens of thousands of authors in dozens of countries. Simply put, Rob helps entrepreneurs become the go-to authority in their market by writing, launching and profiting with a best-selling book. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| It's Time to Repot with Harvey Herman | 10 sept. 2024 | 01:02:30 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with artist and author, Harvey Herman. The discussion focuses on a journey through Harvey’s amazing life within the context of his recently published memoir, It’s Time to Repot. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include – The importance of family, acting without being held back by fear, failure or risk, the secret of staying young - passion, purpose, meaning in life, the importance of embracing individual difference and the power in following your dreams. Harvey has been an artist as far back as he can remember. Even during his career in advertising, he never gave up on his painting. He was the Creative Director for four agencies, before starting his own. His Agency, Herman & Rosner, won many awards, and Harvey was named one of the Top 100 Creative people in that industry. Harvey has directed hundreds of commercials for children. He also directed a children’s television series for ABC...LIttle Vic, that was nominated for an Emmy. He continued to paint, but like so many people, he married and raised three children, so painting took a back seat to his career. Harvey and his wife Elaine have moved to The Hamptons. Harvey is finally painting full time. Since Harvey loved to work with children, when his 5 grandchildren came along, he taught each of them to paint. He set up a studio and every weekend painting became their first activity. One of his grandchildren has gone on to Art and Design High School, another The School of Visual Arts, and a third is studying to be a fashion designer. Harvey now shows and sells his work in his new Studio in Hampton Bays. He has been on the covers of Dan’s Papers twice. And, he has been featured in two shows on the East End. Harvey also teaches painting to kids ages 7-11 years-old at the Hampton Bays Library. To learn more about Harvey, please visit: www.amazon.com/Its-time-repot-Harvey-Herman To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| Empowering People with Therman Trotman | 03 sept. 2024 | 00:34:56 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Therman Trotman entrepreneur and Founder of The SharePoint Helpdesk. The discussion focuses on the ways in which SharePoint can streamline productivity for individuals and businesses – optimizing performance for both. Central themes which emerge through the conversation include an overview of SharePoint and how it works; the benefits of SharePoint in optimizing workflow; the importance of understanding people and business strategy as a business owner and focusing on people first using technology as a support; fostering meaning and purpose in business; the value of leaning into your own context and the importance of embracing difference across domains. Therman Trotman is the Founder of The SharePoint Helpdesk and brings decades of SharePoint expertise from both public and private sectors. With over 20 years of IT experience, he excels at demystifying technology without the typical "IT guy" vibe. He specializes in maximizing Microsoft's SharePoint and helps professionals harness its power. In 2022, after transitioning to full-time independence, Therman received a call from a friend drowning in “spreadsheet chaos.” Over six months, Therman collaborated closely, crafting tailored solutions within the Microsoft 365 suite, liberating his friend from spreadsheet overload and birthing The SharePoint Helpdesk. Therman's passion transforms mundane tasks into thrilling endeavors. As a veteran, entrepreneur, family man, and host of the SharePoint Helpdesk Podcast, he's not just about IT solutions—he's about empowering people. To learn more about Therman, visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Unlocking Peak Performance with Dr. Michelle Cleere | 27 août 2024 | 00:38:35 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Global Performance Coach, Michelle Cleere, Ph.D. The discussion focuses on the non-linear path towards growth and potential. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include – the importance of taking the first step forward, how we can apply the principles of sports performance across domains, the importance of recognizing small successes along the way and seeing progress as an evolving process, the intersection of expectation management and goal setting, navigating fear of failure, the importance of focusing on what you can control and what you can do, as opposed to what you can’t do, the importance of reflection and awareness in creating a strong performance mindset and the power of aligning mind and body. Dr. Michelle Cleere helps top athletes, musicians, and executives all over the world to unlock the power of the mind and develop the mental skills to be the best. MIND EXPERT Prior to becoming an elite performance expert, Dr. Michelle spent most of her life struggling with her own performance hurdles. Once she was able to overcome them, she developed her own systems and research-based methods for supporting others in their journey. It is her passion, mission and promise that she continues to help prevent others from experiencing the same painful battles. Her academic background includes a PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Masters in Sport Psychology, allowing her to help clients deal with performance anxiety, gain more confidence, and build resilience. As many clients attest, their experience with Dr. Michelle is exactly what they needed and more than they expected – it was life changing. AUTHOR, ATHLETE, AND PROFESSOR Dr. Michelle is also a best-selling author, athlete, international speaker and college professor. Dr. Michelle’s bestseller line, Beating the Demons, helps clients develop practical skills to gain more control over competitive environments and mitigate the interruption in play to overcome intense odds and defeat adversity. She has been involved in many different sports and understands the stress and demands to perform at the top. As a 15-year USAT Coach, she developed simple and effective tools to mentally train her athletes, and they are used by coaches, teachers and leaders around the world. She is a professor at John F. Kennedy University where she teaches her students to use the mind as an ally to improve performance. To learn more about Dr. Michelle, visit: drmichelle@drmichellecleere.com To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Equus Coaching with Sue Willoughby | 20 août 2024 | 00:34:26 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Sue Willoughby, Equus Coach and founder of Willoughby Coaching. The discussion focuses on Sue's lifelong love of horses and the powerful impact of horses within the coaching relationship. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the power of the human animal bond, equine assisted coaching and how it helps people build awareness and trust. Sue provides a comprehensive overview of Equus Coaching illustrating the healing which is possible within the context of this work; the ways in which horses act as a catalyst for change. Sue Willoughby is the Founder of Willoughby Coaching, where women over 40 confront their personal obstacles and change the trajectory of their lives with the power of Equus Coaching. Equus coaching helps you discover the profound impact of non-verbal communication and self-awareness as you engage with horses, gaining insights into your leadership, communication style, and personal growth.
Raised by a single alcoholic parent, Sue struggled with low self-esteem and learned from an early age to be self-sufficient and embrace discomfort. She came out at the age of 17 and struggled to find her place in the gay community, attempted suicide at 19, and was on a path of living hard and playing harder. Her life dramatically improved when she met a new partner in the early 90s and moved across the country with her. After this move, Sue returned to school, started a new career, and became a homeowner and real estate investor. Sue found coaching through her lifelong love of horses. They were always there to support her through some of the darkest and most difficult times of her life and she now finds fulfillment in being the coach she wished she had in those challenging times of her life. Sue regularly practices what she preaches by getting out of her comfort zone; she’s been a Nightclub DJ, a standup comic, an actor, a private pilot, and a Roller Derby referee, just to name a few! Sue resides outside the Seattle area with a horse named Moose, 2 mini-longhaired Dachshunds, Benny and Buddy, and a VW Bus called Arlo. To learns more about Sue, visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| The Happiness Habit with Michele Phillips | 13 août 2024 | 00:29:47 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Michele Phillips, happiness expert and author. The discussion focuses on the science of happiness with emphasis on Michele’s book, The Happiness Habit and how she has brought the wisdom shared in the book to corporate leaders across domains, the intersection of mental, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being; the importance of integrating small habits into day to day life to optimize function; the link between emotional intelligence and happiness and navigating the reality of challenge and the power of intentional engagement and social support. Michele Phillips is the founder of Key Performance who specializes in increasing happiness and individual performance in the workplace. By utilizing the latest findings of neuroscience, habits, and positive psychology, Michele shares the formula for happiness and success in an enjoyable and enthusiastic manner. Michele’s boundless energy will instantly grab you, and her can-do attitude is delightfully infectious. Even better, her message is so practical that it can be applied and utilized immediately. Michele’s professional experience spans more than 20 years facilitating engaging workshops, coaching programs, and keynote presentations with Fortune 500 & 100 companies around the globe, including TAG Heuer, PGA Golf Properties, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Barclay’s Capital, The New York State Bridge Authority and COACH leather, just to name a few. She is the author of Happiness is a Habit – Simple Daily Rituals That Increase Energy, Improve Well-Being, and Add Joy to Every Day, cited in the top five most popular self-help books on Amazon in August 2017. (Cedar Fort Publishing 2013). Michele holds numerous certifications and has trained thousands of leaders and individual contributors in the science of habits, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Michele holds a M.A in Organizational Development from Fordham University and is a certified practitioner in the field of Positive Psychology. To learn more about Michele Phillips, visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| Well Empowered with Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer | 06 août 2024 | 00:30:22 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer, functional medicine expert and physician founder of Well Empowered. The discussion focuses on the power of functional medicine in guiding people to resolve health challenges, while allowing them to maximize potential and thrive; the importance of caring for yourself from a place of self-love, integrating wellness habits into a sustainable lifestyle and finally the importance of creating a 5-year wellness vision looking at what it looks like to thrive within your own unique context. Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer is the physician founder of Well Empowered. She created Well Empowered with one commitment in mind, providing you the foundation of health and vitality that allows you to fully bring your gift to the world. How does Dr. H. live true to this? By taking the root cause, natural medicine approach, fueled by loving devotion and science. In working one on one and with groups, Dr. H. balances science and heart giving you information, inspiration and strategies needed to produce transformative health outcomes. Dr. H. earned a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States, a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine from National University of Health Sciences, and a Bachelor of Arts from UCLA. Prior to attending graduate school, Dr. H. established herself as an expert in the fitness industry as a Certified Yoga Instructor and Master Level Certified SuperSlow High-Intensity Strength Trainer. In her spare time, you will find her hiking with my husband, hitting the weights at CWSS, or preparing a beautiful, healthy meal for loved ones. To learn more about Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer, visit: To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| The Mentally Strong Leader with Scott Mautz | 30 juil. 2024 | 00:43:29 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Scott Mautz, CEO/Founder of Profound Performance™, a keynote, workshop, and training company that helps business leaders become even better, more inspired versions of themselves. The discussion focuses on Scott’s book The Mentally Strong Leader and the leadership principles laid out in the book. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include an exploration of the concept of mental strength which is the ability to regulate thoughts, behaviors and actions in the face of adversity; the ability to manage internally to lead better externally; six mental muscles which make up mental strength (fortitude, boldness, confidence, decision-making, goal focused, messaging). These mental muscles are explored in depth in theory and application emphasizing how they come together to foster strong leadership. Dr. Kate and Scott also discuss the power of habit building science, among many other important aspects of mental strength. Scott Mautz is CEO/Founder of Profound Performance™, a keynote, workshop, and training company that helps business leaders become even better, more inspired versions of themselves. He’s a former senior executive of Procter & Gamble, where he successfully ran several of the company’s largest multi-billion-dollar businesses. He’s an award-winning, bestselling author, popular course instructor on LinkedIn Learning, and faculty at Indiana University’s School of Business for Executive Education. His latest book is The Mentally Strong Leader: Build the Habits to Productively Regulate Your Emotions, Thoughts, and Behaviors. Scott is a speaker and trainer commonly described as “riveting” (despite his daughter’s utter disbelief of that description). His one-of-a-kind blend of business experience, research, storytelling, tools, sprinkles of humor, and hi-octane delivery opens hearts & minds.
To learn more about Scott, visit: www.scottmautz.com/mentallystronggift
To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/ | |||
| Building Corporate Well-Being with Marijke Kershaw | 23 juil. 2024 | 00:29:15 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Marijke Kershaw, certified personal performance coach and facilitator. The discussion focuses on Marijke’s career path from the grocery and food industry to HR and talent development with a focus on corporate well-being. Central themes which emerge through the discussion include the importance of using strengths to flourish in work and beyond, organizational well-being, how behaviors in the workplace can impact culture and productivity, the evolving process of change and fostering a culture of total well-being through a holistic view of workplace well-being. Dr. Kate and Marijke also explore in depth the importance of everyday actions and seeing well-being as a skill which can be fostered and developed over time. With over 10 years of experience, Marijke is a certified personal performance coach and facilitator. She has led the design and delivery of learning and development programs and has worked extensively across Banking and Financial Services, FMCG, Technology, Consulting and Manufacturing industries. Marijke also has ten years experience working in sales and marketing for major multinational FMCG organizations and held senior leadership positions in H.J.Heinz, UK. More about Marijke Kershaw: To learn more, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Affect Labeling with Doug Noll | 16 juil. 2024 | 00:37:07 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Doug Noll, peacemaker and award-winning author. The discussion focuses on Doug’s inspiring story with emphasis on his transition from a trial attorney to peacemaker and expert in the concept of affect labeling. Central themes which emerge through this powerful discussion include the neuroscience of peace and conflict; the power of affect labeling or listening to emotions and not words to calm people quickly and effectively, the power of teaching these skills in prisons and across domains and the differences between emotional intelligence and emotional competence. The discussion also focuses on Doug’s book Deescalate which takes a deep dive into the concept and application of affect labeling. Doug Noll was born partially deaf, nearly blind, crippled, and super smart. (All buzzkills for the girls in his early years.) However, he went on to graduate from Dartmouth College, earned his law degree, and became a ferocious civil trial lawyer for 22 years. Then, Doug went back to school to become a peacemaker. Since he left his lucrative law practice in 2000, Doug has devoted his life to understanding human conflict. His groundbreaking work in de-escalating anger in potentially violent confrontations has transformed the lives of thousands. Doug is an award-winning author of four books. His latest, De-Escalate, was published in September of 2017 and is now available in four languages and in its second printing. Doug’s work carries him from international training to helping people resolve deep interpersonal and ideological conflicts. He is the co-founder of Prison of Peace, in which he has spent the last 12 years teaching murderers in maximum-security prisons to be peacemakers and mediators. In 2012, Doug was honored by California Lawyer Magazine as California Attorney of the Year. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||
| Shattering Limiting Beliefs with Jocelyn Sandstrom | 09 juil. 2024 | 00:43:10 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Jocelyn Sandstrom, a certified teacher and practitioner of Advanced Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Neurological Repatterning, Ericksonian Hypnosis and a Millennium Method™. The discussion focuses on Jocelyn’s integrated approach to healing and helping people shatter their limiting beliefs and reach their potential. Central themes which emerge through this powerful discussion include the ways in which we can break through limiting beliefs, the power of inner-knowing and living in possibility with focus and intention. Jocelyn stresses that there is no one size fits all in any of this and that connecting with our inner-knowing and shifting our perspective of what’s possible is at the core of unlocking potential. Growing up in Hawaii, Jocelyn has lived and worked in 12 different countries. This experience has allowed her to realize that even though we may speak different languages or have different traditions, at our core, we are all the same. She has used this knowledge to help and support clients around the world in creating next-level success not just in their careers but in their personal lives as well. Since 2010, she has been providing Quantum Energy Sessions and teaching Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Neurological Repatterning, and the Millennium Method to clients globally. In 2022, she founded Wellness and Metaphysical, a community-driven platform that promotes a higher level of consciousness through expos and retreats. Jocelyn's mindset and energy work have propelled her career, allowing her to work with leading global luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Christian Louboutin, and Yves Saint Laurent, among others. She has been featured on the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, Esquire, Harper's Bazaar, and more. Alongside her husband, she has hosted two travel shows and appeared in various feature and short films. Now, she is focused on sharing her knowledge and experience through coaching and mentoring to help others turn their dreams into reality. Jocelyn specializes in helping clients release deep-rooted issues from their past that are holding them back. She supports clients in building not just success but also fulfillment at the same time because success without fulfillment is empty, leading to burnout and anxiety. She supports her clients to discover their authentic truth and share that with the world, magnetizing their energy to start attracting people and opportunities out of the blue, enabling them to fall in love with themselves and their life while creating more success than ever before! Jocelyn is the host of The Quantum Leap Podcast To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund | |||
| Navigating Transitions with Dr. Elle Sullivan | 02 juil. 2024 | 00:40:43 | |
In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with psychologist and coach Elle Sullivan. The discussion focuses on helping women to maximize potential through life transitions. Themes which emerge throughout this engaging discussion include – helping women to manage through key decision points in their lives with courage and confidence, harnessing inner strength, the ways in which problematic thoughts can masquerade as values, empowering women to see possibility beyond challenge, the keys to managing self-sabotaging behaviors and helping women to find meaning and purpose across the domains of their lives. Dr. Elle is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder of Intown Therapy, a private practice located in midtown Atlanta. The practice serves clients in both Georgia and New York. She is also the co-founder of The Boldest Me, a transformative personal development coaching service for women, and co-founder of Mind Money Divorce, a boutique coaching firm for women navigating the emotional, financial, and logistical aspects of divorce. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Elle has cultivated a unique therapeutic approach that combines traditional psychotherapy with breakthrough work on the inner critic. To Learn More, visit: Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: | |||