The Gratitudeology™ Podcast with Jamie Hess – Details, episodes & analysis

If you’re a dance music fan like I am, you may have had your eyes (and ears) on the fact that last month brought us the Ultra Music Festival in Miami. I was actually floored to learn that it was the 25th anniversary of the festival.

Ultra has become THE benchmark for all things EDM - or electronic dance music - so when something special happens during one of the DJ sets… the world is watching.

Well… last week… something special DID happen.

Grammy-nominated dance music legend, Nadia Ali, took to the stage for the first time in 10 years with Alesso… and it. was. everything.

The response from the fans and EDM social media was bananas… and the whole thing was made even more special, because Nadia… is not only a friend, but she has a …very special connection to this podcast...

Every week, people comment on how much they love the theme song for this show. If you’ve been listening and wondering who sings the hauntingly beautiful lyrics… it's Nadia.

Nadia Ali grew up sheltered, sneaking out of her house to hit the nightclubs of New York City in her teens… but not to imbibe, like most kids her age. No, she was there for a different intoxicant: THE MUSIC.

Enamored by rhythm and sound, she vowed that one day it would be her voice emanating from the speakers. What she couldn’t have imagined was that when she finally achieved that dream, it would be SO MUCH BIGGER than she ever could have imagined.

Nadia’s career took her to some incredible places, and she shares her journey and insights today on the show, including her advice for stepping into your greatness and having confidence even when it seems impossible.

And, most excitingly (for us here at the pod, at least!), she’ll fill us in on the story behind the theme song that has taken us all by storm: the beautiful tune called MAZE which opens and closes this very podcast each and every week.

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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Thank you to Nadia Ali for sharing your truth with us today. Follow Nadia on Instagram @thenadiaali.

Today, we're doing things a little different here on Gratitudeology... we've done an "episode swap" with our pals over at the Campside Media crew and will be bringing you an episode of the show they produce in partnership with Sony, called Infamous. I'm personally a huge fan of the show, and this particular episode is a fun one that may just reframe the way you think about high school...

You probably know Tina Fey’s iconic camp masterpiece, Mean Girls—but do you know the real-life story behind the screenplay? In this episode, Vanessa and Natalie talk to Zoe Nightingale, the original Regina George, about high school. They also talk to Zoe’s sister, Rosalind Wiseman, a sociologist who wrote Queen Bees and Wannabees, the deeply-researched sociological tome that inspired the movie.

Follow Infamous on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/infamous/id1652941051

What if you got everything you thought you always wanted… then lost it all? How would you move forward? Would you live in regret? Depression? Victim mentality? Or would you find that maybe, just maybe, it would spur you to find the TRUE key to happiness in learning to let go, pivot, and reprioritize your life? 

This is exactly what happened to Ryan Dusick, founding drummer from Maroon 5.

Founding the group “Kara’s Flowers” in 1994 (yup, that was the band’s name at first!) with best friends Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, and Mickey Madden, Ryan and his bandmates worked tirelessly for a decade before the group changed its name to Maroon 5 and finally recorded its first multi-platinum album Songs About Jane. Multiple hit songs, two Grammy awards, and 20 million albums sold later, Ryan found himself suffering and without direction, when his career as a performer came to an end, just as it was taking off.

After years of struggling with physical and mental health challenges, Ryan finally turned a corner in 2016, when he began his journey of recovery, culminating in a new life path full of meaning, purpose and fulfillment. 

Curious about what he’s up to today? We sat with him on the heels of releasing his book, “Harder to Breathe: A Memoir of Making Maroon 5, Losing It All, and Finding Recovery” to hear more about his journey from aspiring pop star to global superstar to heartbroken alcoholic to thriving mental health survivor and messenger of hope, recovery, and a new take on GRATITUDE.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:26] Ryan shares what his childhood was like as a shy, high-achieving student and pinpoints the start of his anxiety and passion for music.

[08:58] Ryan recounts the story of why he chose to play the drums and how he met his future Maroon 5 bandmates. 

[14:13] Ryan briefly talks about Maroon 5’s history: its original name, getting its first record deal, and almost breaking up. 

[18:13] Ryan discusses the artists and music genres that inspired Maroon 5’s unique style and impacted its future success.

[24:07] Ryan talks about the road to fame and the realities of touring. 

[27:05] Ryan opens up about his battle with alcoholism and what led to him eventually leaving the band.

[35:08] Ryan discusses downwards spiral after leaving the band and reckoning with his identity.  

[40:11] Ryan talks about the turning point of his addiction and finally committing to changing his life.

[45:24] Ryan reflects on his privilege during rehab in which he credits his successful recovery to. 

[49:55] Ryan explains how pursuing higher education was another level of his recovery and how it led him to dedicate himself to helping others.

[52:40] Ryan shares the reward of gratitude he was finally able to experience that carries him today. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[38:52] Ryan talks about his spiritual bottom and when he finally reached a breaking point to choose a different path.

[41:52] Ryan describes how service changed his perspective and ultimately saved him from this dark chapter in his life.

[46:17] Ryan reminds us that addiction doesn’t discriminate but to overcome it, one must learn to find acceptance in it.

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Show Notes:

A big thank you to Ryan Dusick for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story.

Learn more at https://www.ryandusick.com and follow Ryan on Instagram: @ryanmichaeldusick

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  

Alysia Reiner is a force in entertainment and activism. You might know her as DODC Agent Deever in Disney+’s Ms. Marvel or as Natalie "Fig" Figueroa on Netflix’s groundbreaking Orange Is the New Black, where she earned a SAG Award as part of the stellar cast. But Alysia’s talents go far beyond the screen.

She’s not just an actress but also a producer, with hits like Equity (a Sundance favorite) and Egg (100% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes!). Beyond her Hollywood accolades, Alysia is a passionate advocate for women’s rights and climate change. She co-founded Livari, an eco-fashion initiative, and is the first eco emissary for zero-waste beauty brand Izzy. As an ambassador for GDIM and a board member of the Earth Day Initiative, Alysia speaks at prestigious venues like the White House and the United Nations, inspiring change in the entertainment industry and beyond. 

AND she’s a firefighter! WHAT?!

Join us as we explore her journey, from breaking barriers in Hollywood to championing sustainability and empowering women worldwide. Alysia’s story is one of persistence, passion, and purpose—don’t miss it! 

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:00] Alysia talks about growing up and how she felt was was too big, not only physically but mentally and emotionally 

[5:28] Alysia discusses how recovery is a daily challenge and choosing to have different thoughts 

[6:10] Alysia talks about wanting to be an actress starting at a young age and the journey she went on 

[7:30] Alysia reflects on the tumor she had and how it changed her life 

[12:13] Alysia reflects on the ‘rejections’ she faced while trying to be an actress and the lessons learned 

[16:30] Alysia discusses how her fathers death shaped a big project she worked on about grief 

[23:00] Alysia tells the story of how a casting director told her to never get a nose job and she really held onto that

[25:00] Alysia explains how there was no one big break for her, but several stepping stones

[34:00] Alysia discusses her involvement in community service 

[47:27] Alysia wraps up with what she has learned about keeping steady while the world is so uncertain 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[16:30] Alysia discusses how her fathers death shaped a big project she worked on about grief 

[28:00] Alysia explains Orange Is the New Black and the research she did for the show 

[40:00] Alysia talks about the unjust stories of our justice system

Show Notes:

(Full episode release January 20, 2025) 

A big thank you to Alysia Reiner for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story. Your devotion to serving your community is truly incredible. Follow Alysia on Instagram: @alysiareiner

For the freckles mentioned in this program, go to: https://fazitbeauty.com/

Learn more about Alysia Reiner: https://www.alysiareiner.com/about

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  

Tyler Turner’s story is one of unimaginable loss, relentless determination, and ultimate triumph. After a skydiving accident in 2017 left him a bilateral amputee, Tyler faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding his identity. Battling depression, addiction, and the physical toll of his injuries, he discovered what it truly means to overcome adversity.

Tyler has redefined the limits of human potential. From becoming the first bilateral amputee to pilot a wingsuit to winning Canada’s first gold medal in snowboarding at the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, his achievements inspire awe. Currently competing in the World Cup Circuit and preparing for the 2026 Colere Paralympics, Tyler continues to push boundaries with exciting new projects in the free-riding space.

Join us as Tyler shares his transformative journey, the lessons learned through extreme hardships, and the resilience that reignited his spirit, proving that even in the face of dramatic change, it’s possible to achieve the unimaginable.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:30] Tyler talks about his upbringing, growing up in Canada and how it fueled his love for adventure 

[6:09] Tyler reflects on his competitive nature and how he loved pushing himself to do his best

[7:45] Tyler tells the story of his 18th birthday and how he wanted to do something different that was his own style 

[16:47] Tyler talks about his first sky diving experience 

[24:15] Tyler tries to explain what it is like to live with his joy cup full and how money is not everything 

[28:18] Tyler recounts the story of his horrible accident 

[41:30] Tyler tells how he is back snowboarding despite his accident and how proud he is of himself 

[49:12] Tyler talks about getting back into skydiving and how he had a custom wing suit made for him 

[51:20] Tyler talks about Kayleen, his wife, their story together and how he helped during his recovery 

[54:43] Tyler tells the story of competing in the Amazing Race Canada 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[13:00] Tyler explains the importance of risk and adventure in life and how much growth can come from it 

[36:30] Tyler talks about gratitude and how his accident has impacted his gratitude for what we often take for granted 

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Show Notes:

(Full episode release January 13, 2025) 

A big thank you to Tyler Turner for joining the podcast and sharing your incredible story. Your resilience and positive outlook on life are truly inspiring. Follow Tyler on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tyturner14/

Learn more about Tyler Turner: https://www.tyturner.ca/

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali 

Do you ever look around and think: how does everyone else seem so happy? If this thought hits you now more than usual, you’re not alone. Did you know that - on average - upwards of 30% of adults in the US report to the American Psychiatric Association that their stress levels significantly increase during the holidays? And 55% of us report experiencing loneliness throughout the season.

Stella Grizont, named a leading happiness expert by Time Magazine, is a speaker and executive coach who helps leaders achieve career fulfillment and organizations enhance employee well-being. Some of Stella's corporate clients include Google, Johnson & Johnson, VMWare, and Genentech. Her unique approach to being happier and more engaged on the job has been featured on MSNBC, The Today Show, and Vanity Fair.

Growing up, Stella often felt out of place. With immigrant parents from Ukraine, it was hard for her to relate to typical American childhood experiences, leading her to immerse herself in schoolwork in a bid for independence and self-reliance. As the first in her family to attend college, Stella pursued what she believed to be her path: climbing the corporate ladder. However, she soon found herself feeling stuck. It took a recession, being laid off, and ending an engagement for Stella to hit rock bottom—but in that challenging time (when many would give up) she managed to find her light and start anew… and it inspired her to help the rest of us do the same.

Tune in as she discusses how to rediscover joy in your work, overcome burnout, and use life's toughest moments as stepping stones to a more fulfilling career and a more meaningful life overall.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:45] Stella reflects on her childhood, losing her father, and how she felt different from other kids her age

[5:55] Stella talks about going to a new school and how independent she was from a young age 

[9:30] Stella explains going to Barnard and how she felt like she belonged there from day one

[13:43] Stella tells how she began her interest in marketing at Barnard 

[16:03] Stella notices how she began to change for the worse because of the job she was at 

[22:00] Stella starts a new journey of learning what it is to be an entrepreneur

[47:30] Stella talks about the Work Happiness Method and what it is 

[54:00] Stella lists the skills for the Work Happiness Method 

[1:03:20] Stella shares a story of a coaching client and how she helped her with her career

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[31:30] Stella explains how she found out what Positive Psychology is and her interest in it 

[43:11] Stella talks about how she started to embody gratitude when she was at a low point in her life 

[58:25] Stella shares tactical tips for finding gratitude on a daily basis 

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Show Notes:

(Full episode release November 18, 2024) 

A big thank you to Stella Grizont for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story. Your insight on career goals and being a self advocate is empowering to women everywhere. Follow Stella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stellagrizont/

Learn more about Stella Grizont: https://www.stellagrizont.com/

Purchase Stella's Book: The Work Happiness Method: Master the 8 Skills to Career Fulfillment 

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  

Today we're revisiting a past episode with none other than Teddi Mellencamp.

Many people know Teddi Mellencamp as rock n’ roll royalty, the daughter of iconic American musician, John Mellencamp. Others know her as a star from the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Still others know her as the entrepreneur and health coach behind All In by Teddi, or as the host of her #1 iHeart Podcast, Two Ts in a Pod.

What many people don’t know is the side of Teddi that I know… Teddi has been one of my dearest friends since childhood. We grew up riding horses together on the national equestrian show jumping competition circuit, and from it we grew a special bond.

And when I hit rock bottom in my life… Teddi was there for me.

Today on the pod, we “go there” and talk about it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly. Teddi has been through the ringer, from America trying to tear her down during her time on RHOBH, to her battle with Anxiety and Extreme OCD, and eventually to a scary skin cancer journey. All the while, Teddi served up her signature version of perseverance, work ethic, tenacity, and most of all, gratitude. Today on the podcast, we cover it all… including a secret look behind the scenes of her life and marriage. She shares how she keeps it all together, how she battles crippling obsessive compulsive disorder, and her tips to staying fit, healthy, and happy in life and working motherhood.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:45] Jamie introduces Teddi Mellencamp. 

[04:04] Jamie begins to describe the backstory behind her friendship with Teddi.

[06:32] Jamie introduces Teddi’s struggles with anxiety. 

[07:57] Teddi begins to talk about what it was like having John Mellencamp as a father. 

[10:14] Teddi explains when she realized she wanted to move on from horseback riding and pursue opportunities in L.A..

[13:24] Teddi describes her struggle with her self-identity, including a loss of purpose which resulted in her return to horseback riding. 

[18:29] Teddi opens up about her driving and social anxiety and OCD. 

[24:00] Teddi begins to talk about the start of her Instagram account to hold herself accountable to prioritize herself. 

[30:19] Teddi shares her experience on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and its effects on her marriage.

[36:30] Teddi describes what she wished people knew about her. 

[39:25] Teddi talks about moving on from the show, starting a podcast, and being diagnosed with skin cancer.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[07:03] Jamie discusses Teddi’s self growth by turning her pain into purpose to overcome her inner demons. 

[38:03] Teddi shares her belief that the best way to connect to her kids is to prioritize communication with them and to always strive to be present for them. 

[42:35] Teddi describes the importance of connection with others and sharing the highs and lows to help other people. 

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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Thank you to Teddi Mellencamp for sharing your truth with us. Follow Teddi on Instagram @teddimellencamp and for information on her weight loss & wellness accountability program, check out allinbyteddi.com

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali (find her at @thenadiaali on Instagram).

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Teddi's Bio:

Teddi Mellencamp is an American television personality, podcast host, and successful entrepreneur. Born in Bloomington, Indiana, and raised in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Teddi began her career as a competitive equestrian, making a name for herself at a young age. 

At the age of 17, Teddi moved to Los Angeles, where she worked in the mailrooms at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and United Talent Agency (UTA) while pursuing an acting career. 

Teddi gained widespread recognition as a main cast member on Bravo's reality series “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” from 2017 to 2020. As the daughter of renowned singer-songwriter John Mellencamp, she has carried forward a legacy of public influence with her own unique impact.

Beyond her television career, Teddi has made significant strides as an accountability coach and fitness influencer. Her business, ALL IN by Teddi, has flourished into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, transforming the lives of over 10,000 clients. Teddi’s dedication to fitness and personal development underscores her commitment to helping others achieve their best selves.

Meet Paula Blankenship, the trailblazing founder of Heirloom Traditions Paint, whose entrepreneurial story is nothing short of extraordinary. Paula's talent for transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary has taken her from dressing country music legends like Tanya Tucker and The Mandrells to creating a multimillion-dollar DIY paint empire.

With roots in her family’s furniture business and a career as a commercial interior designer tackling high-profile projects in NYC, Paula returned to her small-town beginnings to reinvent herself. Fueled by passion and creativity, she developed a game-changing paint formula that brings life back to forgotten furniture and inspires countless DIYers.

Tune in to hear how her small-town roots and big-city design expertise paved the way for Heirloom Traditions Paint to become a household name in the DIY world.

In this episode, Paula shares how her journey—from raising a son as a single mom to navigating life’s curveballs—shaped her vision and resilience. Discover how her small-town roots and big-city design experience made Heirloom Traditions Paint a household name.

 Listen if you’re ready to:

• Turn your passion into a career with confidence
• Embrace your imperfections and transform them into strengths
• Seize opportunities and turn them into abundant success

This is a story of reinvention, courage, and chasing dreams you won’t want to miss!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:24] Paula talks about her childhood and growing up in Tennessee and the influence her mother had on her 

[8:42] Paula reflects on not finishing high school and how she spoiled by her mother 

[12:55] Paula is told by her mother that it is time for her to start paying for things herself and it was a drastic change 

[16:30] Paula talks about going to design school and how she still felt like school was not for her so she dropped out 

[21:00] Paula tells the story of how she took her passion for making clothes and turned it into a career by being persistent and dedicated 

[29:20] Paula talks about how she became a celebrity stylist ‘accidentally’ and all of the celebrities she has worked with 

[30:13] Paula makes the decision to return home after 10 years on the road and help out her family 

[32:58] Paula tells the story of her first marriage at 28, it was short lived and then she got pregnant and found herself a single mother 

[40:40] Paula explains how she went back into business with her sister and a mystery man becomes her client 

[54:30] Paula takes her business her the East Coast and decides it is time for her and her son to move out of Tennessee 

[1:04:10] Paula talks about going on a blind date and it being with the man she would later marry, but that night her appendix ruptured 

[1:24:40] Paula explains her success on social media and how her tactics have helped her and her brand grow 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[1:02:00] Paula and Jamie discuss how every opportunity did not happen randomly, but because of manifestation 

[1:07:00] Paula explains how she rebuilt the relationship with her son and the hardships of being a single mother 

[1:30:40] Paula talks about the lowest points in her career in life

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Show Notes:

(Full episode release December 2, 2024) 

A big thank you to Paula Blankenship for joining the podcast and sharing your incredible story. Your perspective on life and your determination to forge your own path are truly inspiring. Follow Paula on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heirloomtraditionspaint/

Learn more about Paula Blankenship: https://www.allinonepaint.com/about-us

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Thank you to Paula's wonderful followers, Virginia Dias and Alyssa Hann, for participating and sharing your thoughts in this episode.

To learn more about these special ladies:

• Alyssa Hann: HannMade by Alyssa Hann | @hannmade_alyssahann
• Virginia Dias's YouTube Channel: Pintando con Virginia Raez

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  

For much of her early life, Joette Calabrese, HMC, PHom M, felt unwell and disconnected from the conventional medical treatments that offered little relief. Her search for answers led her to discover homeopathy—a natural healing method that changed her life forever. 

Now a full-time homeopathic consultant since 1997 and the founder of The Academy of Practical Homeopathy® and Mastery™, Joette reflects on her travels to Calcutta, India, where she worked alongside expert doctors who relied on homeopathy to treat and cure patients. After documenting nearly 7,500 cases, Joette brought back her findings to empower families to take charge of their health.

Many of our former guests have dealt with life’s issues and emotional struggles - things like losing a loved one, fighting social anxiety, battling overwhelm and fatigue, or even something simple-but-debilitating life stage fright.

We’ll take a “walk down memory lane,” listening to clips from some of our favorite past episodes from guests like:

• Fitness and Broadway star, and co-host of The Talk, Amanda Kloots
• Motivational speaker and joy after grief advocate, Jessica Janzen
• Founder of The Big Quiet, Jesse Isreal
• Drybar founder, Alli Webb
• Olympic silver medalist, Kim Glass
• Workplace expert and Grant Cardone partner, Natalie Dawson.

Joette discusses how homeopathy isn’t just for physical ailments.. but for mental and emotional well-being as well. She delves into the homeopathic approach to addressing issues like grief, stress, and anxiety, offering insightful guidance and practical remedies that can help listeners on their healing journeys.

With a heartfelt belief in the power of mothers and grandmothers to lead home-based healthcare, Joette offers a roadmap for health autonomy and natural wellness. This episode is an inspiring testament to the healing potential of listening to your body and seeking alternatives when the conventional path isn’t enough.

*Today’s episode is presented by Boiron USA.

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Show Notes:

[1:30] Joette reads an introduction about homeopathic healing 

[2:56] Joette tells the the story of her upbringing and how it factored into western vs eastern medicine

[7:00] Joette reflects on how in her early 30s she was not well even with all of the drugs she was given and made the decision to stop everything 

[9:10] Joette explains how she began to take tons of supplements and found it was not helping so she stopped that too and began to plant herbs and create her own medicine 

[13:40] Joette explains what homeopathic medicine and what nux vomica are 

[16:40] Joette tells how she has been practicing and teaching homeopathy for over two decades now and how she spent a lot of time in Kolkata 

[23:30] Joette explains how she wanted to learn homeopathy for herself and her family 

[25:10] Joette says homeopathy is the second most used medicine in the world and number three is conventional medicine

[41:00] Joette describes the types of homeopathic medicine that help with mental fatigue 

[45:50] Joette talks about homeopathic remedies for racing thoughts 

Key Takeaways 

[10:50] Joette was given a remedy for a homeopath and found her suffering and side effects melted away and was instantly hooked on homeopathy

[33:20] Joette shares how homeopathy can help beyond physical illness and with grief 

[52:57] Joette explains the benefits Boiron provides and why the company is so amazing for health and wellness 

(Full episode release November 25, 2024) 

A big thank you to Joette Calabrese for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story. Your approach to health and wellness is truly transformative and gives hope to the future of healthcare. Follow Joette on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joette_calabrese/

Learn more about Joette Calabrese: https://joettecalabrese.com/joette-calabresese-professional/

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  

Anneke Beerten is a mountain biking powerhouse. At just 14, she made her childhood dream a reality by going pro and winning World Championships in BMX and 4-Cross. With sponsorships from top brands like GoPro, Oakley, and - our sponsor for today’s episode, Boiron - Anneke’s journey has been nothing short of legendary from the very start.

Growing up in the Netherlands, Anneke was fearless, racing around BMX tracks while her other friends her age were just ditching their training wheels. 

After moving to the U.S. to compete professionally, Anneke was living her dream… but one sunny day, driving down a California road, a series of events would take place that would change everything.

Forever.

Today’s episode brings us into the life and mindset of this top athlete, who beat the odds time and time again to remain a champion. From her commitment to wellness, which began as a child when her parents instilled a deep appreciation for homeopathic remedies for those gnarly cycling bruises (thanks Boiron!) – to the optimized mindset she coaches into other athletes today, her path to the top is largely underscored by the idea of turning pain into purpose

Instead of giving up, she used her resilience and mental strength to overcome life’s toughest obstacles. She’s as bad*ss as they come, and this episode will motivate you to chase your purpose or find clarity if you’re feeling stuck.

*Today’s episode is presented by Boiron USA.

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Show Notes:

[0:54] Aneeka talks about growing up in the Netherlands and how she fell in love with biking and started BMX racing at just four years old

[3:15] Aneeka describes the feelings she had when it came to racing and how she built her dreams around racing

[6:07] Aneeka reflects on growing up with a homeopathic way of living and how her parents encouraged it

[12:50] Aneeka reflects on how the sport of mountain biking embraces everyone and is such a great community 

[14:00] Aneeka talks about how with romantic partners she has been able to share her passion

[16:36] Aneeka talks about how despite it taking a long time to win she kept persevering 

[19:16] Aneeka retells the story of the car accident 

[30:37] Aneeka tells how she had to retire from racing and what she did after 

[38:00] Aneeka shares how she loves being able to share the Boiron products with her riders and help them. 

Key Takeaways 

[9:27] Aneeka talks about how she started to look for new challenges with mountain biking and the transition to moving to California 

[27:30] Aneeka reflects on how she found gratitude despite the restrictions the car accident caused and finding a new her 

[34:29] Aneeka gives advice to young girls on being themselves and doing what makes them happy 

(Full episode release November 18, 2024) 

A big thank you to Anneke Beerten for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story. Your insight into overcoming setbacks and rediscovering your passion is truly powerful. Follow Anneke on Instagram: @annekebeerten

Learn more about Anneke Beerten: https://www.annekebeerten.com/get-started

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Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.

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The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali