#93 The Voice That Empowered Me

Today, I interview Matt Mueller, who talks about how he went from being a very creative child to facing the tough rules of grown-up life that often stop us from being imaginative. He shares important times when the fear of what others would think made him quiet his own new ideas. 

This story of change is not only about Matt; it's something many of us can relate to when we think about how often we've had to hold back our creativity because of the pressure to fit in.

Matt delves into the challenges he faced in his professional life, struggling against the urge to conform and reclaim his voice and creative spirit. He offers invaluable lessons on innovation, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in the creative process, and introduces a simple yet profound framework for innovation, anchored in identifying real problems, crafting impactful changes, and securing acceptance for these solutions. 

Matt’s approach not only revolutionizes how we think about innovation but also serves as a guide for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their personal or professional life. His journey from suppression to expression offers hope and inspiration to those feeling stuck in cycles of conformity.

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Matt Mueller is a keynote speaker, best-selling author, columnist, mindfulness instructor, and innovation consultant. He works with some of the world's biggest brands to help leaders focus on innovation with purposeful growth. 

He has over a decade of experience in product and service innovation, and he has uncovered deep insights, executed strategy, and facilitated change in industries that have not changed in centuries. Matt questioned the culture of innovation and he learned that every innovation has three key variables, and it is not about disrupting before being disrupted. Rather, Matt teaches that if we slow down to be mindful, we can innovate faster with purpose.

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Find Matt here:
https://themindfulinnovator.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmuellerinnovation/ 
https://www.facebook.com/Matthew.F.Mueller/ 
https://www.instagram.com/mattmuellerinnovation/ 
https://twitter.com/MattMuellerInv8 

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Linda Ford, who shares her journey from a challenging childhood in Ireland, characterized by poverty and emotional turmoil, to becoming a master-certified coach. Linda's early experiences were marked by economic hardship, lack of education, and a deep-seated sense of insecurity and self-doubt.

Her breakthrough came when she moved to America, which sparked a transformative journey towards self-confidence and understanding her true potential. Linda realized that confidence and the ability to express oneself are innate qualities, clouded by negative conditioning and false beliefs. 

Now, as a coach, Linda Ford dedicates herself to helping women overcome insecurity, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. She combines deep spiritual insights with practical actions, guiding her clients to trust in their inherent worth and capabilities.

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Linda Ford is a master-certified coach, instructor, and author. She is the co-author of Women and Confidence: The Truth About the Lies We Tell Ourselves, and the creator of her signature programs, If I’m So Smart, then Why Don’t I Feel More Confident? and The Magnetic Woman.

Linda has been personally trained by Dr. Martha Beck, New York Times best-selling author and contributor to Oprah Magazine. Linda has recently relocated from the US to Ireland where she plans on having small group retreats for women.

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Find Linda here:
https://www.lindafordcoaching.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/Lindafordcoaching 
https://www.youtube.com/@lindaford-themagneticwoman1429/videos
https://open.spotify.com/show/1bgOWzfP4Nz52XgZfw7NwV (podcast)

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today I interview Dr. Maria Nemeth who shares her journey of dealing with shyness despite being labeled as an extrovert. Dr. Nemeth explains the distinction between being extroverted and feeling shy, recounting personal stories that shed light on the challenges she faced. 

Throughout the conversation, she shared breakthrough moments that impacted her personal growth, her initial struggles in public speaking, and a memorable moment that challenged her newfound voice.

Despite the challenges of shyness, Maria's unwavering desire to share her thoughts has been a constant driving force. Presently, she passionately expresses her commitment to sharing invaluable insights and cultivating authentic connections with others. At the core of her mission is the profound belief that public speaking transcends the mere act of impressing; it's about genuinely reaching and empowering the audience.

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Dr. Maria Nemeth, PhD, MCC, is a renowned expert in leadership excellence, personal/professional development, and financial empowerment. As the Founder & Director of the Academy for Coaching Excellence, an internationally accredited coach training program, she has trained numerous individuals across nonprofit, for-profit, and governmental sectors.

Dr. Nemeth's influence extends beyond coaching, as she has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and in Inc. Magazine. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed book, "The Energy of Money: A Spiritual Guide to Financial and Personal Fulfillment," available in five languages. Her follow-up book, "Mastering Life’s Energies: Simple Steps for a Luminous Life at Work and Play," further solidifies her expertise.

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Find Dr. Maria here:
http://marianemeth.com/
https://www.instagram.com/drmarianemeth/
http://acecoachtraining.com/

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today I interview Deb Drummond who shares her story of navigating a challenging childhood growing up in a home where she felt tormented by an older sibling. Complicating matters, adults around her dismissed these struggles, downplaying her experiences as just typical sibling behavior. 

That environment left scars on Deb's self-esteem and confidence, making it stressful for her to speak up confidently. However, at the age of 16, Deb, having had enough of the ongoing turmoil, summoned the courage to bravely stand up for herself. This pivotal moment became the catalyst that initiated her journey toward empowerment.

From then on, Deb continuously has been dedicated to empowering herself and finding her own voice through a variety of ways. She transitioned from the music industry to personal development, as she founded a private health studio in Vancouver. For over 30 years, she went through a journey of self-improvement as well as inspiring others to do the same. 

Her commitment to continuous growth led her to spearhead a monumental project for International Women's Day, titled "Solidarity for Women." Through these accomplishments, Deb's story becomes a testament to the transformative power of resilience, inspiring others to find strength in the face of their own struggles. 

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Deb Drummond is a pioneer in the world of Ultrapreneurship and is a Health & Wellness Anti-Aging Expert. She is a Speaker, Author, Mastermind Trainer, and Top Performance Coach.

Deb has built 7 international companies. She is Founder of “262” Intl Women’s Day Summits. She has been recognized in SUCCESS magazine 48 times and has won numerous awards.

Deb is the host of the Mission Accepted podcast and the “GenZ Is Us” show. She is the founder of Mission Accepted Media and creator of the Top Performance Day Planner and Tracker.

From pioneering businesses to igniting hearts and minds, Deb's impact is undeniable. 

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Find Deb here:
https://debdrummond.com/
https://www.instagram.com/deborahldrummond
https://www.linkedin.com/in/debdrummond/
https://www.facebook.com/DeborahLDrummond

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Shiraz Baboo, an influential figure in the realm of reality intervention. Born in South Africa during the Apartheid era, Shiraz's journey took a significant turn when his parents moved to Canada, seeking to escape racial tensions.

In high school, Shiraz initially conformed to the "in" crowd, losing his authentic voice. However, a pivotal moment came when his family moved to an all-white neighborhood, forcing him to stand out and be independent, shaping him into the person he is today.

Drawing inspiration from an Abraham Hicks cruise, Shiraz embarked on a mission to impact lives globally. His commitment materialized in the form of the groundbreaking book, How to Rewrite Reality. Shiraz, a master of "energetic magic," employs his expertise to empower individuals, addressing critical issues such as illness, poverty, and unconscious addiction struggles.

In his current endeavors, Shiraz dedicates himself to helping others find their voices and rewrite their stories. His belief that everyone can be the author of their own empowering journey serves as a guiding principle, offering transformative insights that transcend the boundaries of conventional reality.

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Shiraz Baboo is a multi-award-winning author, international speaker, and reality interventionist. He is known for helping people to rewrite their reality and overcome challenges in their lives using what he calls Energetic Magic. Shiraz has helped hundreds of people to overcome illness, poverty and unconsciously addicted struggles. Overall, he is a renowned personality in the area of reality addiction, and his book, How to Rewrite Reality has changed lives across the globe.

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Find Shiraz here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirazbaboo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/energeticmagic/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energetic.magic/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/energeticmagic/ 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@energetic.magic 
Website: https://www.energeticmagic.com/ 

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Crystal Deichert, whose journey unfolds from the confines of traditional Catholic values to the vibrant shores of Maui. Raised in a community that prioritized conformity, Crystal faced the challenge of breaking free from societal constraints to uncover her authentic self.

Crystal shares her childhood struggles, emphasizing the lack of room for individuality in her community. Seeking solace, she found inspiration in the ocean and, notably, dolphins. These marine creatures became her mentors, symbolizing freedom and joy, elements she longed for in her own life.

As Crystal's life progressed, the echoes of her past continued to shape her narrative. The journey led her into the realm of therapy, where she integrated modalities like EMDR and Reiki, creating a holistic approach derived from her own experiences. This fusion allowed her clients to navigate their paths to healing.

The transformative role of her deep connection with dolphins extended into her career. Incorporating dolphin energy into her therapeutic work, Crystal aimed to tap into the wisdom and freedom these creatures represent. 

Crystal's life and work converge in a tapestry of resilience, inspiration, and authenticity. Through her words, she illuminates the path of self-discovery, inviting others to embark on their journey of personal growth and find their voices amid the transformative waves of life.

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Crystal Deichert is a dual-licensed mental health therapist in Colorado and Hawaii, specialized in helping individuals find clarity in their lives.

She applies various mental health modalities, including EMDR, Inner Parts Work, EFT and Tapping to help clients learn how to get through heartache and pain to find their true essence, allowing them to live a life that is more in line with their soul purpose.

Crystal was recognized as a Top Professional in her field by Marquis Who's Who in America for 2022. This prestigious honor is awarded to the top 3% of professionals. In addition, Crystal has been recognized locally and internationally through various publications highlighting her success stories.

To learn more about Crystal’s journey, check out her first publication, Creating A New World; A Journey Toward Self-Actualization.

Outside of private practice, she enjoys being in nature, especially in the ocean surfing, snorkeling, and swimming with her family.

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Find Crystal here:
https://www.CrystalDeichert.com
https://www.facebook.com/crystaldeichertlpc 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-deichert
https://www.instagram.com/positiveassist/

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Marc Evans, a seasoned business coach and CFO. Shaped by the assertiveness of his mother and the calm demeanor of his father, Marc learned early on the power of confidence.

Early on in life, Marc faced challenges related to his height but quickly overcame them with his ability to use his voice effectively. This skill is what he brought to his role in corporations. As a manager, he honed his skills, and he became adept at wearing different hats to achieve corporate goals. However, the political landscape within corporations eventually led Marc to seek new horizons.

His transition from the corporate sector to online coaching marked a significant shift. Marc delved into entrepreneurship, founding Zazo Business Results, named after his twins, Zach and Zoe. This venture reflects his passion for coaching businesses to achieve results. 

Now, Marc focuses on empowering businesses to increase profits. He emphasizes the importance of confidence and mindset in overcoming challenges. Marc welcomes businesses to connect with him, offering free consultations to explore unique solutions.

Marc's journey is a testament to confidence, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the dynamic realm of business coaching.

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Marc Evans is a seasoned Business Coach and fractional CFO who's coached over 1,000 clients and worked alongside top marketers, including Jeff Walker, driving revenue growth in operations and product launches from 3 to 10MM. 

Marc's leadership extends to Mars M&M's Incorporated, where he led a team of 400+ workers with revenues exceeding 50MM, and at Tyco Telecommunications, he managed operations for the world's first vertically integrated global optical network supplier. 

As an accomplished author, Marc has simplified intricate business concepts in multiple business strategy books, saving clients time and frustration. He's renowned for his 3-part profit playbook strategies that help clients create and execute growth plans with ease. 

Marc started ZaZo Business Results in 2005. The name ZAZO comes from being a proud father of Twins Zack and Zoe. Marc boasts about the over 250 live concerts he's seen and his fan of the New York Islanders hockey team, who at the young age of 13 watched them win a Stanley Cup live.

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Find Marc here:
https://www.facebook.com/marcevans31 
https://www.marcevanshq.com/me-3-part-profit-playbook 

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Kyomi O’Connor who shared a compelling story of her life, marked by early familial challenges. During her childhood, Kyomi endured emotional abuse and struggled with her own identity. As a support to a weak mother, she embraced a dual persona, projecting an outwardly bubbly demeanor while concealing an inner struggle for self-acceptance.

Transitioning into her teenage years, Kyomi faced societal taboos in Japan when her career aspirations clashed with her father's expectations. This period culminated in a dark phase in her early twenties, including a suicide attempt. Seeking a fresh start, Kyomi embarked on a journey to the United States, where academic pursuits at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) introduced her to Patrick, her future husband.

Caring for Patrick during his critical illness became a three-year emotional rollercoaster, and following Patrick's passing, Kyomi confronted the challenge of rebuilding her identity, unearthing aspects of her past she believed to be healed. 

This transformative period unfolded through a profound writing journey, which served as a powerful tool for healing, and culminated in a memoir that serves as both a personal account and an invitation for self-reflection. Today's conversation is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of love and self-reflection, showcasing the human spirit’s ability to heal and grow stronger.

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Kyomi O'Connor is a Japanese-American author, poet, and former researcher who has dedicated her life to exploring themes of identity, belonging, and cultural fusion. Born in Japan, she immigrated to the United States in 1990 to pursue a career in scientific research. However, her personal journey led her to embrace a life of writing and creative expression.

Kyomi's most notable work is her memoir, "A Sky of Infinite Blue: A Japanese Immigrant's Search for Home and Self," which chronicles her experiences navigating cultural differences, finding love in a new country, and ultimately discovering her true self. The memoir has garnered multiple awards and critical acclaim, resonating with readers worldwide.

Beyond her memoir, Kyomi is an accomplished poet, penning verses that delve into the depths of human emotion, relationships, and the complexities of the human experience. Her poems have appeared in various publications and literary journals, showcasing her lyrical prowess and sensitivity.

Kyomi currently resides in San Diego, California, where she continues to write, explore new creative avenues, and engage with the literary community. Her work serves as an inspiration to others seeking to understand their place in the world and embrace their multifaceted identities.
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Find Kyomi here:
https://www.kyomioconnor.com 
https://kyomi.substack.com 
https://www.facebook.com/kyomioconnor.writer 
https://www.instagram.com/memoir_writer2

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Renee Bauer who shared her journey from a childhood shadowed by economic hardships to a life of significant achievement. She spent her formative years in an environment where family finances were a constant concern. Her parents tirelessly juggled nighttime jobs, including taking on cleaning medical facilities to ensure stability.

Renee, even as a teenager, pitched in with the cleaning efforts, often at the cost of her social life. This part of her life was marred by a deep-seated sense of shame and the need for secrecy; she constructed elaborate tales to her friends about visiting relatives, all to mask the reality of her family’s struggles.

Renee realized that her issues with money and worthiness, which were deeply ingrained from her childhood, significantly impacted her adult decisions and relationships. Her second marriage was particularly toxic, and she almost stayed in it due to fears about how others would perceive her.

Despite the personal challenges, Renee became a successful divorce attorney, dedicating over two decades to her profession.

Renee's story is a testament to overcoming early life struggles, breaking cycles of financial and emotional hardship, and achieving professional success while forging a path to help others do the same.

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Renee Bauer has been a divorce attorney for 20 years. She is the Founder and Managing Attorney of Happy Even After Family Law located in Connecticut. Renee is also a co-Founder to a platform for Tarot Card Readers called The Tarot Bridge.

Renee is an international speaker and author. She’s just released She Who Wins: Ditch Your Inner Good Girl, Overcome Uncertainty, and Win at Your Life. She has also published Divorce in Connecticut, The Ultimate Guide to Solo and Small Firm Success, and the children’s book Percy’s Imperfectly Perfect Family.

Rene hosts the annual She Who Wins Summit, a live event created to inspire, motivate and challenge women to move forward bravely in their personal and business lives. Her impact has been recognized by Success Magazine where she was nominated as a Woman of Influence and with awards such as Litigator of the Year, Women-Owned Business of the Year, and New Leaders in the Law. She has been featured in multiple media outlets such as the International Business Times, Comment Central, AP News, NBC, FOX, and iHeart Radio.

I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Today, I interview Jane Applegath whose story reflects how external circumstances can often drown out our inner voices, creating conflict within ourselves. In the midst of these challenges, she discovered the transformative power of yoga and meditation.

Jane grew up with 4 other siblings so she had to speak up or she’d never be heard. For her, it was about the inner voice she wasn't tuned into. And knowing that voice is the epicenter of the story we create for ourselves and the life we live.

Jane's story is a testament to the power of embracing your inner voice and finding your true self in the midst of life's chaos and challenges.

Finding your inner voice means freedom. And knowledge and learning are the keys to that freedom. Everyone has the capacity within them to live a life of abundant freedom, free of limiting beliefs, we only need to find our vision; the divine compass that directs us to the life we desire.

Jane knows and trusts that her voice can make a difference.

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Jane Applegath is a former award-winning financial advisor, television producer, creative scriptwriter, and yoga instructor. She is a serial entrepreneur, Creative Intelligence Coach, Certified VUCA Instructor, and Founder of the Epic Vision Zone.

She serves passion-driven women who are ready to create radical self-empowerment to become the bringers of BIG IDEAS, INFLUENCE, INSPIRATION, and CHANGE.

Jane’s commitment is to end the disempowering beliefs that it’s too late, too hard, too pie-in-the-sky for women to prosper and matter doing work they love. She knows that having more, being more, feeling more, and creating more exist for every woman when she learns to feel and access the VISION of her dream and make it her new reality.

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Find Jane here:
https://www.instagram.com/janeapplegath 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTRlB0PVe13qgPlfS7VY7Zg 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-applegath-77300175/ 

https://www.facebook.com/JaneApplegathCoach 

https://open.spotify.com/show/6IwGXdcZDjgImSVS2Eo7r8 

https://janeapplegath.com/creative-power-signup/ 

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I’m Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.