Education is what enables our young people to reach their manifest destiny. The drivers are the people that dedicate their lives to creating an exciting learning environment of discovery. Dr. Lycka a seasoned radio host chats with those Elite Educators from coast to coast and beyond who reveal their inspiration, motivation, and the joy of seeing students succeed. This rapid-fire program covers all aspects of education from science, humanity and the arts and all things in between. Join us for ...
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On "How to Live A Fantastic Life," we help you discover the golden pearls of wisdom within to help you live a fantastic life! Get out of your comfort zone and explore the awesome world around you, break through your barriers and take inspired action. We will encourage you to use the difficulties in your life to achieve the best version of you. Each week we bring you amazing people that have discovered their own unique pearls of wisdom they will share with you - often by living through life a ...
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Dr. Allen Steven Lycka talks with entrepreneurs and industry leaders about their philosophies, habits and what drives their successful businesses. In these candid and informal discussions, you’ll hear the about the inner work that they do to perform on a highly successful level.
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The Laura Meeks Show - Dream On ~ Fly High ~ Live Adventurously Radio! Are you ready to Fly High with Laura Meeks? Ready to really listen to what your dreams are telling you? Tune in to Fly High Radio with host Laura Meeks as she pilots the way while teaching you how to fly high. Be prepared to confront your dreams head on as Laura encourages you to welcome your dreams and follow their lead into what just might be the places you’ve always imagine you’d go…. More About Laura - As a certified ...
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021: (Encore) A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner
29:16
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29:16Dr. Lycka is joined by Paul Turner, a veteran Language and Literature teacher whose journey into education began with an unexpected pivot from law enforcement. With nearly three decades of classroom experience, Paul shares his love for experiential learning, the value of cultural immersion, and the impact of international student trips. His story i…
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020: (Encore) Leadership, Laughter and Crazy Socks with Bryan Burns
28:07
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28:07We’re bringing back one of our most beloved episodes of The Elite Educator! Join Dr. Al as he reconnects with Bryan Burns, principal of Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek, Alberta—a place close to both their hearts. From growing up in Ontario to leading with purpose in Southern Alberta, Bryan shares his journey with warmth, humor, and, yes…
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374: The Journey to Living a Life of Abundance
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24:08Originally published July 01, 2021. In this encore episode, Wally Carmichael joins Dr. Allen Lycka to uncover how recognizing your own worth can help you move past life’s obstacles and embrace lasting peace and abundance. Bio: Wally Carmichael is a retired Army Medic, founder of Abundance & Prosperity Business Mastery LLC, and host of the Men of Ab…
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019: (Encore) Building School Culture, One Relationship at a Time with Philip Knafla
28:24
28:24
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28:24Discover how fun, collaboration, and high expectations can coexist in the modern classroom—and why every child deserves a champion. Dr. Lycka sits down with veteran educator and Principal of County Central High School, Philip Knafla, to explore the power of relationships, resilience, and relevance in education. They discuss how creating a student-c…
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Originally published June 24, 202. Join us on the road in this inspiring encore episode with Tim Winders entrepreneur, coach, and podcast host. Tim shares practical tips for making money while living a mobile lifestyle, and dives deep into what truly makes life meaningful. We also explore the evolution of leadership and how it can shape your person…
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018: (Encore) Empowering Learners: From Bus Driver to Visionary Educator with Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau
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25:01In this episode of The Elite Educator, Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau shares his inspiring journey from driving a middle school bus to leading innovative education reform. With over 30 years of experience, he now heads Coherent Educational Solutions and the My Future Capacity platform—tools that help students align their strengths and interests with me…
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Originally published Jun 17, 2021. What does it really take to grow a small business beyond survival mode? In this encore episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, we revisit a powerful conversation with Keziah Robinson, business strategist and founder of Cassia Partners. Keziah breaks down the must-haves for scaling successfully—beyond day-to-day o…
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017: (Encore) Teaching with Heart: Jennifer Turner on Shakespeare, AI, and Empowering Young Minds
28:06
28:06
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28:06In this encore episode of The Elite Educator, we revisit one of our most compelling conversations with veteran English teacher Jennifer Turner—a force in the classroom and a fearless advocate for authentic learning. With over two decades of experience at Port Credit Secondary School, her own alma mater, Jennifer brings unapologetic passion, wit, an…
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371: The 5 Fundamentals for Running Successful A Business (Without the Stress)
21:51
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21:51Originally published June 10, 2021. Running a business doesn’t have to mean running yourself ragged. In this encore episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, we revisit our conversation with Jo Dodd, creator of POWER to Live More CALM. Jo shares her 5 fundamental principles for building a thriving business while staying centered, focused, and yes—ca…
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370: How We Can Change the World, One Goal and One Person at a Time
16:19
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16:19Originally published June 04, 2021. In this encore episode, we revisit Nelson Tressler’s remarkable journey from a childhood marked by severe abuse to becoming the first in his family to graduate college. Nelson shares how setting one powerful goal—and refusing to let circumstances define him—transformed his life. Drawing from his book The Unlucky …
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016: Leading with Heart, Listening with Purpose with Stacy Hovey
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25:06In this powerful encore conversation, Stacy Hovey returns to share her people-first approach to educational leadership. With honesty and heart, she joins Dr. Lycka to unpack the real issues facing today’s educators—from burnout and overwhelming class sizes to the often-overlooked impact of being truly heard. Full of wisdom, authenticity, and action…
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015: (Encore) From Good to Great, Building School Culture with Dr. David Kelly
27:09
27:09
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27:09Join Dr. Allen Lycka and Dr. David Kelly, Principal of Nixa High School, for this insightful encore conversation exploring Dr. Kelly’s 20-year journey in secondary education. Discover his proven strategies for building a strong school culture, mentoring educators, and preparing students for success beyond the classroom. This episode is a must-liste…
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369: The Four B's of Happiness Come from Within
25:14
25:14
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25:14Originally published May 27, 2021. The pandemic we all experienced brought unprecedented challenges: soaring divorce rates, rising suicide among all age groups, and a profound sense of disconnection. For many, there was no roadmap for navigating such turmoil. Even as time has passed, the impact remains. The lessons we learned about resilience, ment…
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014: (Encore) From Rock Bands to the Principal’s Office with Martina Fazzano
28:54
28:54
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28:54We’re excited to bring back Martina Fazzano, principal of St. Elizabeth Catholic High School. In this encore presentation, you’ll hear about Martina’s inspiring journey from the music industry to educational leadership. It’s amazing how real-world experience can empower students and enrich learning. Listen as she shares her commitment to championin…
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368: How an Autistic Young Man Overcame Adversity and Started His Own Foundation to Help Others Thrive
37:04
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37:04Originally published May 20, 2021. In this inspiring encore episode, Sean Sullivan shares how he defied the odds after being diagnosed with severe autism and bullied as a child. At just 14, he began a journey to transform his life—and now, as founder of IKnowAutism.org, he empowers others to understand, support, and uplift the autism community. Gue…
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013: (Encore) Leading with Heart: Laura Beltran’s Journey in Education
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24:09Join us for an encore presentation of one of our most inspiring episodes! Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Laura Beltran, Principal of St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. With over 31 years of experience, Laura shares her remarkable journey from aspiring pediatrician to passionate educator. Discover her insights on equity, inclusion, and…
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367: How Self-Actualization Helps Us Navigate Change
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13:09Originally published MAY 13, 2021. In this encore episode, Victoria Vives Khuong explores how life’s crises—like the global pandemic—can be powerful initiations for healing and growth. She shares how self-compassion, deeper intimacy, and embracing our full selves, including our sexuality, can help us overcome trauma and adversity. Tune in for a pow…
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012: (Encore) Empowering Futures Through Education with Rhae-Ann Holoien
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26:45In this encore episode, Rhae-Ann Holoien—Superintendent of Battle River School Division—shares powerful insights from her 30+ years in education. From growing up in a family of educators to leading division-wide transformation, Rhae-Ann reveals how she builds inclusive school cultures, prioritizes well-being, and leads with authenticity. Whether yo…
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366: How to Lift the Weight off Yourself that Emotional Difficulties Create
16:03
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16:03Originally published May 06, 2021. In this powerful Best Of episode, we dive into the surprising science behind emotional stress and how our brains create outdated patterns in response to life’s challenges. Cedric Bertelli, Founder and Director of the Emotional Health Institute (EHI) explains how even the most emotionally healthy among us are shape…
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011: (Encore) A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner
29:16
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29:16We're revisiting a listener favorite in this encore presentation of The Elite Educator. In this inspiring first episode, Dr. Lycka is joined by Paul Turner, a veteran Language and Literature teacher whose journey into education began with an unexpected pivot from law enforcement. With nearly three decades of classroom experience, Paul shares his lo…
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365: Why Social Media Is A Productivity Killer
22:28
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22:28Originally published April 29, 2021. In today’s fast-paced digital world, our addiction to social media is quietly draining our productivity and well-being. In this encore episode, Dr. Allen Lycka is joined by productivity expert Mark Struczewski—aka "Mister Productivity"—to discuss the hidden downsides of our always-online lives. Tune in for an ey…
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364: How to Get Unstuck from a Toxic Relationship
20:56
20:56
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20:56Originally published April 22, 2021. Our relationships impact every area of life—from emotional health to productivity. In this encore episode, Dr. Allen Lycka talks with Dr. Rhoberta Shaler, The Relationship Help Doctor, about how to identify and break free from toxic relationship dynamics, especially with those she calls Hijackals®—people who man…
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363: How Movement Can Transform Your Health and Reduce Stress
19:50
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19:50Originally published April 15, 2021: Did you know that sitting for more than 30 minutes at a time can negatively affect your body in ways comparable to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day? For those with conditions like diabetes or chronic pain, inactivity only makes things worse. In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka sits down with expert physical thera…
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010: Leadership, Laughter and Crazy Socks with Bryan Burns
28:07
28:07
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28:07In this heartfelt and humorous episode of The Elite Educator, Dr. Al welcomes Bryan Burns, principal of Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek, Alberta—a town that holds deep roots for both of them. From humble beginnings in Ontario to becoming a cornerstone of his Southern Alberta school community, Bryan shares the twists, turns, and sock pat…
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009: Building School Culture, One Relationship at a Time with Philip Knafla
28:24
28:24
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28:24Discover how fun, collaboration, and high expectations can coexist in the modern classroom—and why every child deserves a champion. Dr. Lycka sits down with veteran educator and Principal of County Central High School, Philip Knafla, to explore the power of relationships, resilience, and relevance in education. They discuss how creating a student-c…
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362: How to Come Back from Domestic Abuse and Thrive
22:06
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22:06Originally published April 8, 2025: This unforgettable episode features Rustie MacDonald, a survivor of abuse, poverty, and a near-death experience during childbirth. Faced with the ultimate choice—to give up or fight for her life—Rustie chose to rise. From those darkest moments, she transformed her pain into purpose. Now an author, consultant, and…
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008: Empowering Learners: From Bus Driver to Visionary Educator with Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau
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25:01Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau joins us to share his transformative journey from middle school bus driver to educational leader and innovator. With over 30 years in education, Dr. Valenzuela-Mumau now leads Coherent Educational Solutions and the My Future Capacity platform—tools designed to help students discover careers aligned with their strengths, i…
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361: How One Woman’s Near Death Experience Can Change Your Life
23:44
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23:44Originally published April 1, 2021. In one of our most powerful episodes, we revisit the extraordinary journey of Melisa, a woman who overcame a devastating misdiagnosis, a massive stroke, multiple surgeries, partial blindness, and paralysis. Facing death on the operating table, she emerged with a renewed purpose—to inspire and uplift others. Now a…
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007: Teaching with Heart: Jennifer Turner on Shakespeare, AI, and Empowering Young Minds
28:06
28:06
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28:06Jennifer Turner has spent over two decades shaping young minds at her alma mater, Port Credit Secondary School. As Head of the Languages Department, Jennifer shares her powerful insights on making Shakespeare relatable, navigating the rise of AI in education, and encouraging students to think critically and authentically. From classroom theatrics t…
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Originally published on March 25, 2021: What happens when everything you’ve built—everything you’ve become—suddenly starts to fall apart? For Naveed Khljie, his identity was deeply tied to the mobile mechanic business he poured his heart into. It was thriving, it was growing, and it was who he was. But when a partnership to expand into a shop disso…
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359: How Being Unstoppable Brings the Light to Dream Big
23:34
23:34
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23:34Originally published on March 18, 2021. The world changed dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic—and so did our personal and professional lives. If you’ve struggled to adapt or felt your resilience stretched to its limits, you’re not alone. But hope and inspiration are just a conversation away. In this empowering episode, Dr. Lycka speaks with t…
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006: Leading with Heart, Listening with Purpose with Stacy Hovey
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25:06
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25:06Stacy Hovey brings heart, purpose, and people-first leadership to the frontlines of education. In this episode, she joins Dr. Lycka to explore the real challenges educators face today—burnout, growing class sizes, and the power of truly listening. Packed with insight and authenticity, this conversation offers a fresh, hopeful perspective and practi…
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358: How to Communicate Better and Express Vulnerability as Men in Relationships
35:43
35:43
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35:43Originally published on March 4, 2021. In this powerful encore episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, we dive into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—men, emotional vulnerability, and relationships. Our guest, Travis Belanger, shares his personal journey that began with a difficult divorce in the early 2000s and ultimately led him t…
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005: From Good to Great, Building School Culture with Dr. David Kelly
27:09
27:09
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27:09Join Dr’s Allen Lycka and David Kelly, principal of Nixa High School, for a look at Davids 20-year journey in secondary education, insights on building strong school culture, achieving excellence and preparing students for real-world success. A must-listen for educators and change-makers. Guest Bio: Dr. David Kelly has spent 20 years in secondary e…
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004: From Rock Bands to the Principal’s Office with Martina Fazzano
28:54
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28:54Tune in to meet Martina Fazzano, principal of St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, whose journey from the music industry to education leadership bridges real-world learning with student empowerment. In this edition of The Elite Educator, Martina shares how she champions student voice, modernizes curriculum, and brings Indigenous history into the cla…
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357: How to Make a Positive Impact on Your Community and Beyond
14:29
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14:29Originally published on February 25, 2021. We’re thrilled to bring back an inspiring episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life featuring Trent Denson, the creator of the “Spread the Positive” movement and podcast. In this conversation, Trent dives into the small, everyday moments that can create deep, lasting impacts on others—and how each of us has …
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003: Leading with Heart: Laura Beltran’s Journey in Education
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24:09In this inspiring episode of The Elite Educator, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Laura Beltran, Principal of St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. With 31 years of experience in education, Laura shares her journey from aspiring pediatrician to passionate educator. She discusses the importance of equity, inclusion, and student well-being, …
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356: How to Gain Success in Life in Less Than Five Minutes
29:17
29:17
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29:17Originally Published: February 18, 2021: Dr. Richard Shuster’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From a high-powered career securing medical records for the Army to a life-altering near-death experience, his path took an unexpected turn—one that now helps people change their lives in just five minutes. Yes, you read that right! In this enc…
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002: Empowering Futures Through Education with Rhae-Ann Holoien
26:45
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26:45Today’s conversation will inspire you to think bigger, lead with heart, and create a school culture where everyone thrives! As the Superintendent of the Battle River School Division Rhae-Ann Holoien has over 30 years experience in education. Tune in to hear her incredible journey—from growing up in a family of educators to becoming a leader driving…
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355: How Women and Men Can Elevate Their Wellness During Difficult Times
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24:17Originally published on February 11, 2021: Join us for a powerful encore edition of How to Live a Fantastic Life, where Rochele Marie Lawson shares her incredible journey of transformation and holistic wellness. From a childhood marked by stress and illness to discovering the keys to vibrant health as a registered nurse, Rochele's story is one of r…
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001: A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner
29:16
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29:16In this inaugural episode of The Elite Educator, we welcome Paul Turner, a dedicated language and literature teacher with 28 years of experience. From an unexpected career shift from law enforcement to teaching, Paul shares his passion for experiential learning, international student trips, and the transformative power of education. Join us as we e…
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354: How Being Truly Authentic Will Drive Success
18:22
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18:22Originally published on February 4, 2021, this powerful episode of How to Live A Fantastic Life features Mari Mitchell, a woman who spent years living as the person others expected her to be—until she hit rock bottom. Mari takes us on her journey of self-discovery, sharing how she reclaimed her true identity and how you can do the same. From childh…
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353: How to Get Crystal Clear on Where You Want to Go in Life
59:06
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59:06Originally Published January 28, 2021. In this special encore episode of How to Live A Fantastic Life, we revisit the incredible journey of Meridith Alexander and her daughter Schuyler. After a life-altering accident in 2016—when Schuyler was crushed by a massive boulder in South America—their story became one of resilience, determination, and tran…
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352: Flipping Your Internal Script to Live the Life You Are Meant For
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31:46Originally Published January 21, 2021. In this episode, join us for an insightful deep dive with Ilyse Rothman as we explore how to recognize, release, and re-story our lives. To begin, we must understand our relationship with the world around us. Ilyse will guide us in analyzing our perspective and how we view the reality in which we are the “star…
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351: The Love Choice within Forgiveness and Relationships
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20:10Originally Published January 14, 2021. Today we revisit an insightful and transformative conversation with Dr. Paul Jenkins, a clinical psychologist and expert in the science of positivity. Dr. Jenkins takes us on a deep dive into the power of forgiveness—what it truly means, why it’s essential for growth, and how to free ourselves from the grip of…
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Originally Published March 29, 2022: Tune in and rediscover the motivation to step into your greatness, overcome self-doubt, and make the most of every opportunity. In this special encore episode we revisit an inspiring conversation with Debra Kasowski—a dynamic speaker, bestselling author, and host of The Millionaire Woman Show. Debra’s passion fo…
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349: How Not to Run Scared in The Midst of Chaos
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20:51Originally Published December 31, 20202. Join us for an inspiring encore episode as we sit down with the incredible Sharifah Hardie to explore her golden pearls of wisdom on navigating chaos and emerging stronger. Sharifah shares her powerful story of resilience—how she faced adversity, fought through life’s challenges, and positioned herself ahead…
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348: Why it matters that your “Flavor” is different than Everyone Else.Everyone Else
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38:03Originally Published December 24, 2021. We're bringing back a fan-favorite episode with Tyler Ornstein! If you're a business owner or entrepreneur, you won't want to miss this lively conversation. Tyler shares what makes him shine, the power of supporting others, and how his own golden pearls of wisdom have shaped his journey—both personally and pr…
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Originally Published December 17, 2021 Today, we revisit an inspiring conversation with Linda Lang, a true testament to resilience and healing. Diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, she was given little hope—but 35 years later, she’s here with us, thriving. Through alternative healing, energy medicine, and deep inner work, Linda not only sur…
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346: Crush Your Goals and Reach Peak Performance with Rodney Flowers
41:23
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41:23Life is full of challenges and obstacles, but how we respond to them defines our journey. Today, we welcome Rodney Flowers, who shares his incredible story of resilience after being paralyzed on the football field. Through his journey, he discovered powerful life lessons—golden pearls of wisdom—that helped him overcome adversity. His experience was…
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