In this episode of Behind the Glitz, I sit down with Scott Lesnick, a keynote speaker, author, and TEDx presenter with an extraordinary life story that shows the true power of resilience and persistence. Scott opens up about one of the most challenging experiences of his life—rescuing his children after they were abducted and taken to the Middle East. His journey is emotional, powerful, and a testament to the strength it takes to keep moving forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you.

We also dive into how Scott took those life lessons and transformed them into a mission to help others. Today, as a keynote speaker, he empowers leaders with practical strategies to reduce stress, build resilience, and foster collaboration. His insights prove that strength grows through adversity and that persistence is key to overcoming even the toughest challenges.

Scott’s story is an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when you refuse to give up—and his advice on resilience, leadership, and managing stress will resonate with anyone looking to push through their own obstacles.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Never Give Up: Persistence is everything. Scott’s story shows how grit and determination can help you overcome even the hardest challenges.
2. Resilience is Built Through Adversity: Tough times test you, but they also reveal how strong you truly are.
3. Collaboration is Crucial: Whether in leadership or life, working with others and seeking support can make all the difference.
4. Stress Management is Essential: To stay balanced and avoid burnout, find the tools that work for you—like running, journaling, or meditation.
5. Listen More, Lead Better: Great leaders prioritize listening. It builds trust, connection, and stronger teams.

Scott’s story is powerful, and his lessons on resilience and leadership will leave you inspired to face your own challenges with confidence. Tune in to Behind the Glitz on all platforms to hear his incredible journey.

In this episode of Behind the Glitz, I sit down with Cait Donovan, host of Fried the Burnout Podcast (the #1 burnout podcast on Spotify), to unpack the surprising power of resentment and how burnout can take over every area of our lives. We get into the real talk about what burnout actually is, what causes it, and how it shows up differently for men and women. Plus, we cover the warning signs you should be looking for and the risk factors that might be setting you up for burnout.

Cait brings a fresh perspective on resentment—an emotion we all experience but usually try to avoid. She explains how resentment isn’t just negative, but can actually be a tool for growth and self-awareness if we use it right. We also dive into the essentials of self-care and why putting your physical and emotional well-being first is a non-negotiable when you’re recovering from burnout.

We talk about how childhood experiences can shape your burnout tendencies, the role of gratitude in healing, and how Eastern medicine—like Chinese medicine—can offer a totally different approach to recovery. Cait even shares a fascinating concept about how burnout can mess with your perspective—like losing your peripheral vision—and how leaning on support can help you see clearly again. And, we break down her Devil-Angel-Human exercise for setting boundaries and having those tough conversations we all need to have.

Takeaways:

• Burnout doesn’t just affect your work—it can creep into every part of your life.
• Perfectionism, people-pleasing, lack of boundaries, unclear values, childhood trauma, and health issues are all burnout risk factors.
• Protect yourself from burnout by setting boundaries, asking for help, and making self-care a priority.
• Resentment can actually be a tool for growth—if you know how to use it.
• Gratitude is powerful, but recovery is personal—what works for one person may not work for another.
• Eastern medicine, like Chinese medicine, can offer unique approaches to burnout recovery.
• Resentment journaling can help you release negative feelings and create space for more gratitude and generosity.
• The Devil-Angel-Human exercise is a simple and effective way to set boundaries and communicate clearly.
• Burnout recovery is different for everyone—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
• Burnout can narrow your perspective, but support from friends, family, or professionals can help you regain clarity.
• Focus on foundational self-care, creating a safe space, and leaning on your support system to fully recover from burnout.

In this episode of Behind the Glitz, Aria Johnson speaks with Betty Rhoades, founder of She Speaks, about overcoming adversity, reclaiming your voice, and finding your inner power. Betty shares her journey, from dealing with life’s challenges to coaching others on how to unlock their potential. They dive deep into the concept of authenticity and how staying true to your values is essential to avoid burnout.

Betty emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, tapping into your “superpowers,” and pushing past societal norms, especially for women in the workplace. She also discusses how to identify your strengths, set boundaries, and speak up when it matters most, using both her personal experiences and coaching insights. This empowering conversation wraps up with practical advice for standing tall, even in the face of setbacks, and how to stay resilient without burning out.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Authenticity is Power: Living aligned with your core values prevents burnout and makes you more resilient in both personal and professional life.
2. Reflection is Key: Take the time to reflect on your values and strengths, and seek feedback from others. This self-awareness is critical to navigating challenges.
3. Burnout Prevention: Setting clear boundaries and staying true to your inner "superhero" can help you avoid the exhaustion and disconnection that comes with burnout.
4. Grit and Resilience: Success is not linear; it requires pushing through obstacles and embracing your unique strengths, even when things get tough.
5. Support Systems Matter: Whether through mentorship, community, or personal support systems, having people around you to lift you up is crucial for sustained success and burnout prevention.

In this episode of Behind the Glitz, I had the chance to sit down with Vilis Ozols, a former pro volleyball player and NCAA women’s basketball coach, to dive into the mindset it takes to win, overcome adversity, and bounce back from setbacks. We got real about the grit, determination, and relentless drive needed not just in sports but in life.

Vilis shared a powerful personal story about a major setback he faced and how he turned it into one of his biggest learning experiences. It’s a reminder that the behind-the-scenes work, the struggles and challenges, are what really shape success.

We also talked about burnout—something that hits athletes and coaches hard. Vilis shared some great insights on how to stay motivated and avoid burnout by building resilience and practicing mental toughness. We both agree that preparation, maintaining a positive mindset, and even embracing failure are all essential parts of the journey to success.

The conversation wrapped up with three powerful takeaways: giving everything you’ve got, positioning yourself for success, and relentlessly going after your goals—without burning out.

Takeaways:

• Success, in sports and life, requires giving maximum effort and pushing past your limits.
• Grit can be developed through consistent habits, attitude, and perseverance.
• Having a support system makes a huge difference when overcoming challenges.
• Setbacks and failures are valuable opportunities for growth and learning.
• Always give 100% so you can look back and say you left nothing on the table.
• Put yourself in a position to win by being prepared and ready for whatever comes your way.
• The only goal you can’t achieve is the one you don’t go after—so go for it!

In this episode of Behind the Glitz, I sit down with Becca Powers, an incredible keynote speaker and bestselling author, to dive into her powerful transformation story—from working at a dollar store to becoming a Fortune 500 executive. Becca shares the life-changing moment that completely redirected her path and the importance of owning your personal power, setting boundaries, and prioritizing what truly matters to avoid burnout. Her book, A Return to Radiance, is all about shifting from a place of trauma and stress to embracing your inner brilliance and potential.

Becca challenges the traditional approach to personal development by encouraging us to focus on what we want in life rather than what’s wrong. She believes that our power lies in our choices, and every decision shapes the life we lead. During our conversation, we dive deep into themes of self-love, receiving love, and how to make choices that empower us. We also talk about the balance between maintaining success and avoiding burnout—something Becca knows all too well. Plus, she shares some amazing advice for aspiring authors.

This episode is all about embracing your worthiness, protecting your energy, and taking intentional steps toward your goals. If you're ready to feel inspired and take charge of your life, this one's for you!

Takeaways:

• Own your personal power and prioritize what truly matters in your life.
• Set boundaries to protect your energy and avoid burnout.
• Shift your focus from trauma and stress to fully embracing your radiance and potential.
• Challenge traditional views on personal development by focusing on what you want, not what’s wrong.
• Love, leadership, and legacy are key to a fulfilling life.
• Receiving love is just as important as giving it.
• Making empowered choices is crucial for living a life that serves you.
• Self-love and self-care are non-negotiables for maintaining success.
• Aspiring authors should keep honing their craft and seek support along the way.
• You are worthy of manifesting your ideas and goals.
• Small, intentional actions toward your goals can create big, lasting changes.

Tune in to Behind the Glitz on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to hear Becca’s inspiring journey and learn how to take control of your own transformation!

Keywords

personal development, transformation, personal power, boundaries, potential, radiance, trauma, stress, meaning, purpose, fulfillment, character, love, legacy, choice, self-love, success, aspiring authors, worthiness

In this episode of "Behind the Glitz," I sit down with Carmen Ohling, a transformational life and leadership coach, whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Carmen faced her personal limitations and burnout head-on, and she’s here to share how she turned those challenges into opportunities for growth.

Carmen talks about the power of slowing down, taking time to reflect, and asking ourselves the tough questions that lead to a more fulfilling life. She’s a big believer in the importance of mentorship, attending conferences, and surrounding ourselves with people who are just as focused on growth as we are.

Throughout our conversation, Carmen emphasizes the need to prioritize our well-being and set clear priorities to overcome obstacles and reach our goals. She shares how disciplines and systems can actually bring more freedom into our lives. One of her personal tips? Planning your week based on energy rather than time. This simple shift can make all the difference in how we approach our days.

Carmen also highlights the importance of self-care and making time for deliberate play to avoid burnout and find balance. And if you’re looking for more tools and resources for your own journey, keep an eye out for her upcoming book—it’s going to be packed with insights.

Takeaways:

• Slowing down and reflecting on our lives is key to personal growth and fulfillment.
• Surrounding ourselves with growth-minded individuals and seeking mentorship can fast-track our personal and professional success.
• Prioritizing well-being and setting clear goals helps us tackle challenges and achieve what we set out to do.
• Taking intentional action and stepping outside our comfort zones is essential for growth and building confidence.
• Disciplines and systems bring more freedom into our lives.
• Plan your week based on energy, not just time.
• Focus on specific tasks each day to stay clear and motivated.
• Self-care and making time for play are vital for maintaining balance and fulfillment.

Carmen's Event

• Event Details: text “amplify” to 503-386-2981
• Daily inspo: text “inspire” to 503-386-2981
• Event Website: https://carmenohling.com/amplify-your-life-world-conference/
• Journal with weekly energy planning: https://amzn.to/4cJri71

Keywords

transformation, personal growth, overcoming limitations, burnout, multiple sclerosis, mentorship, conferences, growth mindset, well-being, priorities, intentional action, disciplines, systems, freedom, planning, energy, focus, balance, self-care, deliberate play, personal growth, professional growth

In this episode of "Behind the Glitz," I had the pleasure of chatting with Will Bowen, the founder of the Complaint-Free Movement. We dive deep into the impact of complaining and why we do it. Will shares some eye-opening insights from his research and personal experiences, helping us understand how complaining really affects our relationships and overall well-being.

We explore the psychology behind complaining—why it happens, how it impacts us, and, most importantly, how we can stop. Will sheds light on the different reasons people complain, whether it's seeking attention, avoiding responsibility, or even trying to inspire envy. We also talk about how complaining can be a way to seek power or build alliances, and how men and women may experience and express complaints differently.

Our conversation also touches on Will’s meeting with Oprah Winfrey and how her perspective on complaining made a profound impact on him. We wrap up with practical strategies for breaking the habit of complaining and making positive changes in our lives.

Takeaways:

• Complaining is a common behavior that can negatively impact our social interactions and personal well-being.
• People often complain to seek attention, avoid responsibility, or inspire envy.
• Complaining can significantly affect relationships and self-esteem, but understanding its psychology can lead to positive change.
• The desire for power and building alliances often drives people to complain about others.
• Men and women may perceive and express complaining differently, and understanding these differences can improve communication and empathy.
• Breaking the habit of complaining requires conscious effort, but it can greatly improve personal and professional relationships.

Tune in to "Behind the Glitz" on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to hear Will Bowen’s powerful insights and start your journey toward a complaint-free life!

In this episode of "Behind the Glitz," I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cynthia Ficara and Anneliese Rhodes, the dynamic duo known as the Girls of Grit. We had an honest and inspiring chat about their journeys in the male-dominated world of medical device sales. They shared the mindsets and beliefs that helped them break through the glass ceiling and the challenges they faced along the way.

Cynthia and Anneliese emphasize the importance of resilience, persistence, and finding inner strength. They talk about how crucial community support and mentors have been in empowering them and other women. We explored the idea of "having it all" and how to prioritize and find balance in different areas of life.

They offered personal strategies for avoiding burnout, like practicing gratitude, knowing their limits, and engaging in self-care activities like exercise. We discussed the importance of setting boundaries, being present with family, and juggling the demands of being a working mom. Cynthia and Anneliese shared practical tips for disconnecting from work to be fully present with their children, emphasizing that finding balance is key.

Supporting and empowering other women was a big theme in our conversation. Cynthia and Anneliese reminded us to avoid comparisons and focus on being the CEO of our own careers. They talked about taking charge, making decisions, and building a personal brand, defining success as being a good mother, making a positive impact, and finding happiness in both personal and professional life.

We wrapped up the episode with some heartfelt advice: hug your loved ones, let go of guilt, drink plenty of water, focus on what really matters, leave a positive legacy, and practice gratitude. This episode underscores the importance of resilience and self-care in avoiding burnout while celebrating the power of community and mentorship in achieving success.

Takeaways:

• Resilience, persistence, and finding strength within yourself are crucial for breaking through the glass ceiling in male-dominated industries.
• Having a supportive community and mentors can provide guidance and help navigate challenges.
• Finding balance between career and family requires setting boundaries and prioritizing based on personal values.
• Practicing gratitude and engaging in self-care activities can help prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.
• Be present with family and find ways to disconnect from work.
• Support and empower other women, and avoid comparing yourself to others.
• Take charge of your career and build your own brand.
• Define success based on personal values and the impact you have on others.
• Practice gratitude and focus on what's truly important in life.

Tune in to "Behind the Glitz" on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and get inspired by Cynthia and Anneliese’s incredible journey!

Keywords

women in leadership, medical device sales, male-dominated industry, mindset, beliefs, glass ceiling, resilience, persistence, strength, community support, mentors, having it all, balance, burnout, gratitude, self-care, boundaries, balance, self-care, presence, working mom, shutting off work, support, empowerment, comparison, CEO of career, success, advice