95 - Intentional Living - With People Who Make a Difference

What's on Your Bookshelf?

#Andy Hughes #Denise Russo #Business #Scott Miller #MBA #Self-Improvement #Careers #Podcasting Education #Denise Russo Andy Hughes And Scott Miller

33:19

What’s the secret to lasting friendships? How does queer community show up through the ebbs and flows of life? And what’s the REAL story behind the “YMCA” song? In the first episode of Silver Linings, The Old Gays dive into an essential part of queer life: chosen family. They discuss the vital love, support, and sense of belonging that community provides, especially during life's toughest moments. They open up about what “queer” means to them, how chosen family has impacted their lives, and how to maintain close bonds over time–including their love for each other! “We’ve come a long way, baby.” Family isn’t just what you’re born with; it’s the people who show up, shape you, and stick around. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 30:43

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Ever wondered how connecting with diverse minds can transform your life? Join us, Denise Russo and Samantha Powell, as we explore John Maxwell's "Intentional Living" and uncover the magic of building relationships with like-minded individuals while embracing diverse perspectives. We'll share personal stories that highlight how engaging with people who challenge our viewpoints can spur significant growth and enrich our lives. Discover the value of a cohesive team when striving for monumental goals, and how collective trust and collaboration can make our dreams more achievable and meaningful.
Next, we dive into the challenges and rewards of forming a new team within a large organization, drawing inspiration from the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen. With a clear vision and a steadfast belief in the mission, we discuss the pivotal strategies that drive continuous improvement and significant change. Learn how faith over fear can unlock resources and propel you towards your goals. We'll share our insights on brainstorming, seizing opportunities, and navigating the sacrifices necessary for the right path, all while fostering a culture committed to excellence.
Lastly, we shine a spotlight on the transformative power of attitude in achieving success. Drawing from Martin Luther King's insights on leadership, we explore whether our attitudes serve as assets or liabilities in our pursuits. Through compelling personal anecdotes, we demonstrate how a positive outlook and openness to new challenges can lead to extraordinary growth. We'll also discuss the importance of setting ambitious dreams to attract talent and how collaboration among winners can result in remarkable achievements. Wrapping up, we emphasize the joy and fulfillment that comes from partnering with the right people at the right time, setting the stage for our upcoming episode on living with anticipation and urgency. Don't forget to subscribe and share your journey with us!

Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify.
Subscribe to our new YouTube channel.

Chapters

1. 95 - Intentional Living - With People Who Make a Difference (00:00:00)

2. Living With Intention (00:01:15)

3. Significance and Continuous Improvement (00:07:11)

4. The Power of Attitude and Partnership (00:14:45)

5. Life That Matters Through Partnership (00:28:21)

121 episodes

What's on Your Bookshelf?

95 - Intentional Living - With People Who Make a Difference

What's on Your Bookshelf?

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Chapters

1. 95 - Intentional Living - With People Who Make a Difference (00:00:00)

2. Living With Intention (00:01:15)

3. Significance and Continuous Improvement (00:07:11)

4. The Power of Attitude and Partnership (00:14:45)

5. Life That Matters Through Partnership (00:28:21)

121 episodes

#Andy Hughes #Denise Russo #Business #Scott Miller #MBA #Self-Improvement #Careers #Podcasting Education #Denise Russo Andy Hughes And Scott Miller

All episodes

What's on Your Bookshelf?

1
119-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2-Episode 5; Turning Trials into Triumph: How Your Obstacles Become Opportunities 33:51

5 days ago33:51

33:51

Sam and Denise explore how to transform obstacles into opportunities by approaching challenges with strategic patience and focused energy rather than immediate reaction. • Using obstacles against themselves requires stepping back and allowing some problems to "fizzle out" on their own • Non-action can be a powerful form of action when dealing with emotional situations or seemingly immovable obstacles • Channeling frustration into focused energy creates more sustainable results than emotional reactions • The "long game" approach often outperforms immediate gratification in both sports and business settings • Humility is essential when facing obstacles—sometimes admitting the original path isn't working opens new possibilities • Acting versus "acting out" determines whether obstacles derail us or become opportunities for growth • Strategic thinking and intentional actions often prove more effective than constant activity We're continuing our journey through "The Obstacle is the Way" with two final chapters next week focusing on seizing the offensive and preparing for when things don't work out. Subscribe to catch both this show and our exclusive edition series on "Extreme Ownership" hosted by our producer Zach Elliott. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

What's on Your Bookshelf?

1
118-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2, Episode 4; Whats Right, What Works 32:02

12 days ago32:02

32:02

We explore two key chapters from Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way" about taking action when faced with obstacles through creative problem-solving and finding alternative paths forward. • Discussing how "what's right is what works" encourages flexible, goal-oriented thinking over rigid adherence to conventional methods • Exploring Marcus Aurelius's simple wisdom: "The cucumber is bitter? Then throw it out" as a guide to avoiding unnecessary complications • Sharing real-life examples of finding creative solutions to roadblocks, including Denise's Disney trip detour story • Examining the concept of the "flank attack" - approaching problems from unexpected angles rather than head-on confrontation • Highlighting how George Washington's unconventional military tactics demonstrate the power of strategic thinking over brute force • Looking at how successful businesses often use "side door strategies" to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles • Reflecting on how sometimes the longest way around can be the shortest way home when obstacles are approached creatively Join us next week as we continue exploring Holiday's book, focusing on using obstacles against themselves and effectively channeling our energy. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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1
117-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2-Episode 3; Follow the Process and Do your Job 27:02

19 days ago27:02

27:02

We delve deep into the concept of "following the process" from Ryan Holiday's book The Obstacle Is the Way, exploring how Nick Saban's coaching philosophy offers valuable lessons for life and leadership. • Process-oriented thinking keeps us in the present moment rather than fixating on end goals • Creating systems provides a relaxing framework that reduces decision fatigue • Figures like Obama, Zuckerberg and Jobs simplified their wardrobes to preserve mental energy • Effective personal systems must be realistic and accommodate life's inevitable messiness • Accountability partners can help maintain discipline when implementing new processes • The formula for success is simple: hard work, honesty, and helping others • What matters is doing the right thing in this moment, not worrying about the whole journey Join us next week as we discuss "What's Right Is What Works" and how doing the right thing helps us transform obstacles into opportunities. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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113- The Obstacle Is The Way: Your Path to Growth 28:33

19 days ago28:33

28:33

Welcome, listeners, to what might just be the lost episode of our podcast! We were ready to share it with you before, but let’s just say, technology and timing had a little bit of an adventure of their own. So, here we are, presenting it to you a little later than expected—but hey, it’s like a fine wine, right? Sometimes it just needs a bit more time to age. Now, don’t worry about the fact that we’re jumping in at what feels like the middle. Our podcast is designed so that you don’t have to follow the episodes in perfect order. So, go ahead, listen freely—start from wherever the mood strikes. It’s like picking up a book in the middle and deciding that chapter really resonates with you. This episode wraps up our deep dive into Ryan Holiday's The Obstacle is the Way , where we explore how changing your perspective can transform obstacles into opportunities. And now, let’s dive into that good stuff: Thinking differently is essential to seeing obstacles as opportunities. Steve Jobs did not accept limitations—ever. He made his own rules, and guess what? The world changed because of it. Be aware of the external influences —those who tell you it’s just "the way things are." Their limitations shouldn’t become yours. Advice is often just another form of judgment, coming from others’ limitations. So, take it with a grain of salt—or maybe a whole shaker, depending on who’s offering it. The key to finding opportunities is controlling your emotions first. If you can’t do that, how can you spot the chances? General Eisenhower’s strategy during the Blitzkrieg? He saw the crisis as an opportunity to outmaneuver and adapt— genius thinking in the face of chaos. And here’s something personal: Olivia, after losing her home, didn’t just sit back and wait for things to get better. Instead, she launched "Save the Earth Projects." Talk about turning disaster into drive! You can prepare all day, but decisive action is what ultimately shifts the needle. And the foundation of all of this? Changing your thinking —because once that shifts, so do your results. Join us next week as we take everything from perception into action in the next phase of our journey through The Obstacle is the Way . Trust me, you won’t want to miss it! Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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116-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2, Episode 2; Practice, Persistence, and Iterate 26:53

26 days ago26:53

26:53

We explore the concept of persistence from Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way" and discover how persisting through challenges is the key to effective action in life and leadership. • The best way out of any challenge is always through, not around • Persistence and pertinacity are key assets demonstrated by historical leaders like General Grant • Uphill goals require uphill habits and relentless determination • Having a clear "why" statement fuels persistence when motivation naturally wanes • Iteration allows us to learn from failures and adjust our approach without losing momentum • Creating space between our identity and our failures prevents emotional paralysis • Viewing obstacles as feedback provides precise instructions for improvement If you're getting value from this podcast, we'd love to hear from you and please share these episodes with others who might benefit. The book is "The Obstacle is the Way" by Ryan Holiday. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

What's on Your Bookshelf?

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002 - What's On Your Bookshelf (Exclusive Series): Extreme Ownership 27:32

4 weeks ago27:32

27:32

We explore the transformative concept of Extreme Ownership from Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's book on Navy SEAL leadership principles applied to business and life. Through powerful military examples and business parallels, we unpack how taking complete responsibility as a leader creates a culture of accountability and success. • Leaders own everything in their world—there are no bad teams, only bad leaders • Taking responsibility for both successes and failures builds trust and team discipline • "Blue on blue" incidents (friendly fire) in business occur when internal teams work against each other • Leaders must clearly explain strategic missions, develop tactics, and secure proper training and resources • Setting aside ego is essential for effective leadership and problem-solving • Emotional intelligence and self-awareness are foundational leadership qualities • Conducting a "responsibility audit" helps identify leadership improvement opportunities • You can't force people to excel—true leadership inspires voluntary commitment If you're interested in developing your leadership skills through professional coaching, reach out through the links in our show notes. Next week, we'll dive deeper into leadership principles with Leif Babin. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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1
114-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2, Episode 1; Discipline of Action 29:30

5 weeks ago29:30

29:30

Have you ever felt stuck when facing an obstacle, unsure how to move forward? The key to transformation lies not in your perception alone, but in what you do next. Continuing our journey through Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way," we explore Part Two – the critical transition from perception to action. Theodore Roosevelt's wisdom frames our discussion perfectly: "We must either wear out or rust out. Every one of us." This choice between meaningful movement and stagnation lies at the heart of overcoming any challenge. We dive deep into what Holiday calls "the discipline of action" – the deliberate, bold, and persistent steps required to transform obstacles into opportunities. It's not just about movement, but right and effective action aimed at specific goals. Like a baseball player choosing which pitches to swing at, we must be strategic about where we direct our energy rather than spinning our wheels like a hamster going nowhere. What separates those who triumph over adversity from those who remain stuck? The answer isn't in what happens to us, but in what we do with what happens. We share real stories of people faced with unexpected job changes who chose to see opportunity rather than misfortune – creating momentum for themselves rather than waiting for perfect conditions. The path forward becomes clear: no one is coming to save you, and complaining only creates the illusion of progress. True transformation begins when you take that first step, however imperfect it might be. As we prepare to explore persistence in our next episode, we invite you to consider: what meaningful action will you take today toward overcoming your obstacles? Join us on this journey of growth and discovery. If you're finding value in these conversations, please share with others who might benefit and let us know how you're applying these principles in your own life. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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115 - The Obstacle Is The Way, Perspective 28:38

6 weeks ago28:38

28:38

It always starts with a moment. A moment when everything feels impossible. For Denise, it was standing at the crossroads of a career shift, staring down uncertainty like an opponent in the ring. For Sam, it was watching someone she believed in struggle—not because they lacked talent, but because they couldn’t see their own path forward. What makes the difference in those moments? It isn’t strength. It isn’t luck. It’s perspective . In this episode, Sam and Denise dive into Part One of The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday, exploring the idea that how we see the world determines how we move through it . Through powerful real-world stories—like John D. Rockefeller during the financial collapse of 1857 and Ruben “Hurricane” Carter’s refusal to be broken by wrongful imprisonment—they break down the ways perception can either trap us or set us free. But this isn’t just about history. It’s about you . Denise reflects on the moments when a shift in perspective turned failure into opportunity—how choosing to see a roadblock as a challenge instead of an end point rewrote the story. Sam shares how learning to stay calm when everything screamed panic became the key to unlocking new possibilities. W e don’t control our circumstances, but we do control how we see them. Expect to walk away with: A new way to look at the challenges in front of you Practical strategies for maintaining perspective under pressure A reminder that even in the hardest moments, there’s a way forward Tune in. Shift your view. And take the first step through the obstacle in front of you Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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112 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Objectivity, Turning Obstacles into Opportunities 35:29

7 weeks ago35:29

35:29

Denise and Sam explore how practicing objectivity can transform our approach to life's obstacles, drawing wisdom from Ryan Holiday's bestseller "The Obstacle is the Way." • Distinguishing between perception (emotional reactions) and observation (factual reality) • Our first thoughts come from programming and defaults, but our second thoughts define who we are • Reacting immediately to first impressions can cause us to miss valuable opportunities and connections • Diversity of thought helps us see beyond our limited perspectives • Where the head goes, the body follows - perception precedes action • Taking yourself out of the equation often reveals solutions previously hidden by emotion • Altering perspective transforms seemingly impossible obstacles into solvable challenges • George Clooney's career breakthrough came from changing his perspective on auditions If you're interested in coaching to help shift your perspectives and overcome obstacles, reach out to Denise and Sam through the contact information in the show notes. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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1
111 - The Obstacle is the Way: Steady your Nerves 29:29

8 weeks ago29:29

29:29

Denise and Sam explore the concept of perception in Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way," focusing on how steadying our nerves and controlling our emotions can transform obstacles into opportunities. • Perception shapes our response to challenges and determines whether obstacles block us or become the way forward • Public speaking anxiety as a common example of needing to steady your nerves in high-pressure situations • The importance of being "the adult in the room" when facing workplace or personal challenges • Controlling emotions doesn't mean suppressing them—it means creating space between feeling and response • NASA astronauts' training demonstrates how remaining calm allows for better decision-making in crisis • When emotions escalate, ask "what am I choosing not to see right now?" • Emotional intelligence means recognizing when values are violated without letting reactions control you • The obstacle is only insurmountable if your perception makes it so Join us next week as we continue our journey through "The Obstacle is the Way," exploring objectivity and how to alter your perspective when moving through different obstacles. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

What's on Your Bookshelf?

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001 - What's On Your Bookshelf (Exclusive Series): Extreme Ownership Intro 30:09

8 weeks ago30:09

30:09

Discover the transformative power of military leadership principles in our exclusive new series featuring Denise Russo and special co-host Zach Elliott. This debut episode introduces a fresh perspective on leadership through the lens of military experience, specifically exploring how the disciplined, accountable leadership style of elite military units translates to business success. The conversation centers on the groundbreaking book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. Together, Denise and Zach unpack why military leadership resonates so powerfully in corporate spaces – from the unwavering focus and accountability instilled in military personnel to their ability to build trust and take complete responsibility for outcomes. We explore the book's three-part framework that begins with mastering self-leadership ("winning the war within"), progresses to team dynamics ("laws of combat"), and culminates in strategic vision ("sustaining victory"). Throughout the discussion, our hosts emphasize that these aren't merely professional skills but life principles that transform how you approach challenges in every arena. What sets this leadership philosophy apart is its uncompromising stance on accountability. As the authors write, "Leaders must own everything in their world. There is no one else to blame." This mindset cuts through excuses and creates a foundation for exceptional performance in any organization. Whether you're leading a team of two or two thousand, these principles provide a roadmap for building trust, developing people, and achieving mission success. Join us on this journey through military-inspired leadership wisdom that will challenge your assumptions and elevate your effectiveness as a leader. Subscribe now to gain insights from each chapter of "Extreme Ownership" and discover how taking complete responsibility can transform your leadership impact. Extreme Ownership : https://a.co/d/b02WNv7 Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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110 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Mastering Perception 26:54

9 weeks ago26:54

26:54

It starts with a storm. The year is 1857, and the economy is collapsing. Panic spreads like wildfire. Investors crumble. Businesses fail. But a young man named John D. Rockefeller doesn’t flinch. He watches. He studies. And while others see disaster, he sees an opening. That’s the power of perception. In this episode, Denise and Sam step inside The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday, pulling real stories from history and personal experience to explore a truth that separates those who falter from those who rise: what we see—and how we choose to see it—determines everything. You’ll meet Ruben “Hurricane” Carter , a boxer wrongfully imprisoned for nearly 20 years, who refused to be caged in his own mind. His words— “I will not under any circumstances be treated like a prisoner” —are proof that even when we lose control over our circumstances, we never lose control over our perception. Denise and Sam break down the defining moments when perception makes the difference—between fear and opportunity, between despair and resilience. They uncover how biology wires us for panic, but philosophy teaches us power , and why Marcus Aurelius was right when he said: “Choose not to be harmed, and you won’t feel harmed.” Join us as we explore how to: Stay calm when others panic Reframe obstacles as opportunities Control what we can—and let go of what we can’t Train our minds to see before others do Whether you’re facing professional setbacks, personal challenges, or just the chaos of everyday life, this episode is an invitation to shift your perspective—and in doing so, change everything. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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109 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Introduction, The Obstacle Is Your Opportunity! 28:09

10 weeks ago28:09

28:09

Obstacles don't block your path—they are your path. In our deep dive into Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way," we unpack how ancient Stoic wisdom offers practical solutions for modern challenges. The book provides more than inspiration; it delivers a framework for transforming life's inevitable roadblocks into opportunities for growth. We examine the remarkable stories of leaders like John D. Rockefeller, who found unprecedented success during economic depression by maintaining what Holiday calls "unflappable coolness under pressure." Rather than being paralyzed by circumstances, these historical figures developed the mental discipline to see opportunities where others saw only problems. We share personal stories about leaders we've known who embodied this philosophy—from calm management during national crises to everyday resilience in business challenges. The four-step process Holiday outlines becomes our roadmap: objectively assess the problem, adjust your attitude toward it, apply creativity to transform it, and cultivate the inner will to persevere. Our conversation reveals how this approach works at all scales—from small daily frustrations to life-altering challenges. We unpack the powerful parable of the king who placed a boulder in the road, rewarding the one person who took initiative to move it instead of complaining about it. As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, "The things which hurt instruct." This episode offers both philosophical depth and practical strategies. Whether you're facing professional setbacks, personal struggles, or simply the everyday obstacles of human existence, this timeless wisdom provides a path forward. The obstacle isn't just something to overcome—it's the very way to become stronger, more creative, and ultimately successful. Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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1
108 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Transforming Trials into Triumphs 26:30

11 weeks ago26:30

26:30

Denise was stuck. Sam was frustrated. Different stories, same feeling—an obstacle so big it seemed impossible to move. But what if the struggle wasn’t a dead end? What if it was the path forward? In this episode, Denise and Sam dive into The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday, exploring its powerful lessons through personal stories and the experiences of those who have turned setbacks into success. You’ll meet a leader who faced disaster but found a way through, a dreamer whose failure became fuel, and the historical figures who proved that obstacles aren’t barriers—they’re invitations to greatness. Denise and Sam take you on a journey filled with stakes, transformation, and hard-earned wisdom. It’s about the moment you hit the wall, the choice you make next, and the unexpected doors that open when you lean into the challenge. Because, as Marcus Aurelius once said, “What stands in the way becomes the way.” This isn’t just a book discussion—it’s a call to action. Tune in, shift your mindset, and start seeing your biggest obstacles as your greatest opportunities. Resources mentioned: The Obstacle is the Way: https://a.co/d/cvDTJ2c Sometimes You Win Sometimes You Learn: https://a.co/d/dF6Czuj Solve for Happy: https://a.co/d/dCU6ghu The How of Happiness: https://a.co/d/2PweTq6 Coach Wooden: https://a.co/d/7sTFLVm Atomic Habits: https://a.co/d/9siYKsD Connect with us on our LinkedIn page School of Thoughts . We also value your reviews, subscribing, and sharing our podcast "What's On Your Bookshelf?" on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel .…

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107 - Five Bold Choices: Rise Above Your Circumstances and Redefine Your Life - Wrap Up: Appreciating the Journey 27:29

14 weeks ago27:29