Today Tessa is joined by Rita Ernst, the owner of Ignite Extraordinary. They talk about the importance of celebrating your employees and how to create the best work environment. Tessa and Rita share their personal experiences of having great co-workers and how it inspired them to work harder. They share how moving from a rigid workplace to one that feels like family can not only improve the environment but it can increase productivity. Learn more about Rita here: https://www.igniteextraordinary.com/…

John Chester didn’t just start a farm—he reawakened an ecosystem. In this conversation, filmmaker-turned-farmer John shares the extraordinary journey behind The Biggest Little Farm, revealing how a barren, overworked plot of land transformed into a thriving biodynamic system. With deep parallels between gut health and soil health, John unpacks how biodiversity, failure, and curiosity drive real resilience. If you’ve ever questioned how we grow our food—or what nature is capable of when we stop controlling it—this episode is a must.…

Ever wondered why intimacy feels so elusive? It’s not just about sex—it’s about understanding yourself and your partner at a soul level. Juliet Karaman, an expert in intimacy and trauma healing, joins Tessa Arnold for a candid conversation on how to deepen connection, break free from societal constraints, and tune into your body’s true “yes” and “no.” Discover how communication, self-awareness, and vulnerability can unlock the most profound intimacy you’ve ever experienced. Tune in and learn how to cultivate connection that nourishes both body and soul.…

What happens when the uniform comes off and the future feels uncertain? In this powerful conversation, Zack Knight—former police officer, Army infantry officer, and Green Beret partner—opens up about his intense transition from service to civilian life. From near-suicidal lows to launching a mission-driven organization, Zack shares the real story behind finding purpose after loss. We dive into the emotional, mental, and entrepreneurial challenges of reinvention, the unspoken void in veteran support systems, and how rediscovering your “why” can be the most courageous battle of all. You won’t want to miss this deeply honest and inspiring journey of 2.0 transformation.…

What if the key to creating lasting impact isn’t about giving more—but listening better? Social impact architect Gretchen Villegas shares her transformative journey from the rural Midwest to remote villages in Africa and Latin America, where she learned that the deepest change comes from understanding what people truly need—not what we assume they do. This conversation challenges how we define service, fulfillment, and success, offering a compelling case for leading with empathy, trust, and curiosity. Get ready to rethink what it means to help—and to lead.…

Technology is evolving faster than our minds can process—but what does that mean for our mental health, creativity, and connection? In this electric conversation, Tessa Arnold sits down with digital entrepreneur and thought leader Matt to explore how the internet has shaped our lives, our choices, and our responsibilities. From the early days of dial-up to the age of AI, they unpack what it really means to “bridge the gap” in a world where authenticity is no longer optional. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of change—or inspired by its potential—this conversation will shift your perspective.…

What if your biggest breakthrough is still ahead of you? In this powerful conversation, high-performance strategist Jaclyn Strominger joins Tessa Arnold to explore how limiting beliefs quietly shape our lives—and how to shatter them. From the lessons hidden in animated films like Cars to real talk about neuroplasticity, resilience, and rewriting your story at any age, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Whether you’re on the verge of a pivot or questioning your path, get ready to reignite your sense of possibility.…

In this powerful conversation with mindset coach Michele Phillips, we explore how intentional micro-actions, emotional balance, and nervous system awareness can transform the way you show up—for your health, your family, your goals, and your life. From laddering up your emotions to redefining affirmations so they actually work, Michele Phillips shares insights from 25 years of guiding people beyond self-imposed limits. You’ll walk away recharged and ready to take back your energy—starting right now.…

Think you know what resilience looks like? This might surprise you. Join host Tessa Arnold who talks with Katie Mares shares the raw and riveting story of surviving domestic abuse, losing everything, and choosing to rise—one small, powerful step at a time. From lying in the fetal position to rebuilding a life and career from scratch, Katie’s story is a masterclass in courage, clarity, and taking decisive action. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the illusion of comfort or questioned your strength, this conversation will shift your perspective—and might just change your life.…

What if the key to better communication, influence, and even inner peace lies in understanding a part of your brain that's been running the show since the Stone Age? In this fascinating deep-dive, Tessa Arnold talks with Thomas—the Happy Tribes Builder—uncovers how our primal brains shape nearly every decision we make, often without us even realizing it. From survival instincts to subconscious frustrations, we explore how to ethically tap into decision-making processes that haven’t evolved in 50,000 years. You'll learn how to bypass resistance, build connection, and unlock the “Happy Brain” approach to life, leadership, and legacy. Trust us, you won’t think the same after this one.…

What if the very traits that made you successful are also keeping you from the deep connections you crave? Somatic coach Jay Moon Fields joins Tessa Arnold to explore how high-achievers can feel at home in themselves—not just alone, but in relationships, too. They dive into the hidden dynamics of internal family systems, the role of protectors and managers in shaping our experiences, and why so many strong, accomplished individuals struggle with intimacy. Plus, a powerful discussion on the unexpected link between alcohol-free living and emotional resilience. If you’ve ever felt like you’re thriving on the outside but disconnected on the inside, this conversation is for you.…

Ever thought about owning a business but didn’t know where to start? Greg Mohr joins us to uncover the hidden opportunities in franchising—how it can provide structure, support, and a proven roadmap to success. We break down the myths, the costs, and the freedom it can offer for those ready to leave corporate life behind or diversify their investments. If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising is the right move for you, this conversation is a must-listen!…

What happens when you’ve climbed the corporate ladder, only to realize it’s time for a whole new climb? Tessa Arnold sits down with Sara Flanagan, a former banking executive turned entrepreneur, to explore the journey of stepping away from stability and embracing reinvention. They break down the mindset shifts, the fears that hold us back, and the strategies for building a bold and fulfilling "2.0" career. If you're feeling stuck in your current role or wondering what’s next, this conversation will challenge the way you think about change, ambition, and success.…

In this episode, Tara Elizabeth, the founder of Kollective SHIFT, shares her transformative journey from teaching special education to becoming a breathwork and habit coach. Tara explains how her work is grounded in the power of breath, boundaries, and habits to help individuals heal from trauma and stress. She opens up about the personal struggles that led her to breathwork, including a difficult divorce and family challenges, and how this practice became her anchor through it all. Tara's approach connects breathwork with self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the ability to create space for difficult emotions, all while building a more resilient nervous system. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on using breath to shift your mindset, habits, and life. https://www.kollectiveshift.com…

In this powerful episode of Step Into the Gap, Tessa Arnold connects with Dr. Nona Djavid, a Forbes writer, entrepreneur, and expert on personal transformation. They dive deep into how we can break free from limiting beliefs and step into the bigger vision for our lives. Dr. Djavid shares her personal journey from feeling trapped in a seemingly perfect life to embracing a vision of freedom, abundance, and alignment. Learn about the transformative power of clarity, the role of stillness in personal growth, and how quantum leaps are possible by aligning your mind, body, and spirit. Join Tessa and Dr. Djavid for a candid discussion about how to overcome complacency, listen to your inner self, and create the life you were always meant to live.…