From Heartbreak to Hollywood: An Unforgettable Journey of Resilience

As the host of the "Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience" podcast, I've had the privilege of speaking with some truly inspiring individuals. But my recent conversation with New York Times best-selling author Jamie Kern Lima, co-founder and the powerhouse behind IT Cosmetics and the author of the newly released book Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life, was a profound reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of self-worth.

The Journey to IT Cosmetics: Jamie's story is one of tenacity and belief in oneself against all odds. She shared with us the raw and real challenges she faced while building her now-thriving beauty empire. From pouring every penny into her dream to facing rejection from major retailers, Jamie's path was anything but smooth. Yet, it was her resilience and understanding of self-worth that propelled her forward.

Self-Confidence vs. Self-Worth: One of the most enlightening moments of our discussion was Jamie's distinction between self-confidence and self-worth. She explained that self-confidence is often tied to external achievements and can be fleeting. In contrast, self-worth is an internal belief in our inherent value, regardless of our successes or failures. This realization is not just a nuance; it's a fundamental shift in how we perceive ourselves and our potential.

Overcoming Low Self-Worth: Jamie opened up about how low self-worth can manifest as self-sabotage, a feeling of emptiness, and a ceiling on our potential. She emphasized the importance of unlearning the lies that lead to self-doubt and embracing the truths that awaken our sense of worthiness. Her message was clear: when we believe in our worth, we unlock our ability to achieve and enjoy fulfillment without the shadow of imposter syndrome.

A Mission to Ignite Worthiness: Jamie's dedication to spreading the message of self-worth is unwavering. She's donating 100% of the proceeds from her book to further this cause. Her passion is not just about sharing her story; it's about igniting a change in others, helping them to recognize and embrace their worthiness.

The Impact of "Worthy": As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn't help but feel inspired by Jamie's insights. Her book is not just a memoir; it's a call to action for anyone struggling with self-doubt. It's a testament to the idea that understanding and nurturing our self-worth can lead to a life of greater achievement and satisfaction.

As we continue on our own paths, let's carry with us the lessons from Jamie's journey. Let's challenge the self-doubt, embrace our worthiness, and support each other in our quests for fulfillment. Remember, resilience isn't just about bouncing back; it's about growing stronger and more capable in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

I encourage you to share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Jamie's message. Whether it's a friend, family member, or a stranger you meet while walking your dog, let's spread the word about the power of self-worth. And for those who are as captivated by Jamie's insights as I was, her book Worthy:How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life is a must-read.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of "Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience." Until next time, keep flourishing. 

To learn more about Jamie Kern Lima and to purchase her newest book visit: https://worthybook.com/ and https://jamiekernlima.com/. 

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The journey of IT Cosmetics (00:01:26): Jamie Kern Lima shares the challenges of founding it Cosmetics and the struggle leading up to profitability.

Challenges and Self-Doubt (00:03:53): Jamie shares her journey of self-doubt and the challenges she faced while building IT Cosmetics, emphasizing the impact of self-worth.

Enduring Rejection and Setbacks (00:08:55): Jamie recounts the struggle of enduring hundreds of rejections and setbacks in the initial years of launching IT Cosmetics, highlighting the importance of perseverance.

Understanding self-confidence and self-worth (00:23:57): Exploration of the difference between self-confidence and self-worth and their impact on fulfillment and achievement.

Imposter Syndrome and Self-Worth (00:32:22): Jamie addresses the belief that unworthiness fuels success and emphasizes the importance of building self-worth for fulfillment.

Contributing to Something Bigger (00:35:16): Jamie discusses the importance of growth, confidence, and contribution, all multiplied by one's level of self-worth for fulfillment.

The journey of self-worth (00:37:23): Discussion on self-worth, imposter syndrome, and the belief in one's worthiness.

Challenging the belief of unworthiness (00:38:05): Jamie shares her personal experiences and challenges the belief of unworthiness and imposter syndrome.

Belief in worthiness as a driving force (00:38:35): The importance of believing in one's worthiness and the impact on achieving fulfillment and success.

Redefining the paradigm of success (00:40:26): Shifting the paradigm from unworthiness to worthiness as the foundation for success and fulfillment.

Unlearning lies that lead to self-doubt (00:43:45): The focus on unlearning lies that lead to self-doubt and igniting truths about worthiness.

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of "Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience," where we dive deep into the transformative world of spiritual growth and the power of psychedelics. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Austin Mao, head minister and founder of Ceremonia, an energetic church that's redefining spiritual practice in Colorado.

The Energetic Church & Psychedelics as Sacraments: We explored the intriguing concept of an energetic church and how psychedelics, like ayahuasca, are used as sacred tools to deepen our connection with the divine. Austin opened up about his first encounter with ayahuasca and the profound impact it had on his life, reshaping his memories and guiding him on a path of enlightenment.

Guiding Others Through Personal Transformation: Austin and I discussed a crucial question: Should one do their own inner work before leading others? The answer is a resounding yes! Austin emphasized the importance of self-accountability and practicing what we preach to truly guide others toward their spiritual truth.

Challenges, Intuition, and Spiritual Ego: Life's challenges are often our greatest teachers. Austin shared his personal struggles, including overcoming pride and spiritual ego, and how these experiences cemented his commitment to his spiritual journey. We also delved into the art of accessing intuition, quieting the mind, and tuning into our body's signals.

The Role of Suffering in Growth: Do we need to suffer to change? This thought-provoking question led us to discuss David Hawkins' map of consciousness and the pursuit of truth. Austin recounted a pivotal moment of rejection at an ayahuasca retreat that forced him to confront his humility and the lessons learned from suffering.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone interested in spiritual growth, the role of psychedelics in religious practice, and the journey towards self-discovery. It was a reminder of the importance of doing our own inner work before guiding others, the power of intuition, and the profound lessons that can emerge from our darkest moments. Thank you so much to Austin Mao for sharing his journey with us.

To learn more about Austin and his church visit: https://www.ceremoniacircle.org and https://www.austinmao.com. 

Until next time, keep flourishing!

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

Intuition and Personal Growth (00:00:00): We discuss the importance of personal growth and intuition in guiding others.

Introduction to Ceremonia (00:01:20): Austin introduces Ceremonia, an energetic church, and its use of psychedelics as sacraments.

Austin's Personal Journey (00:04:07): Austin's journey in founding Ceremonia and the transformative effects of psychedelics on his life.

Accessing Intuition (00:11:10): Austin explains the process of accessing intuition through quieting the mind and connecting with the body.

Challenges and Spiritual Growth (00:18:40): Austin shares significant challenges that have shaped his spiritual growth and personal transformation.

Courage and Suffering (00:27:21): Discussion on how courage can release one from suffering and the steps from apathy to courage.

Risking for Freedom (00:30:00): Exploring the willingness to risk everything for freedom and the consequences of perpetuating suffering.

Transformation in Relationship (00:32:22): The impact of being willing to risk a marriage and the transformative effects of introspection and change in a relationship.

Awakening Others (00:37:28): The possibility of awakening and helping others through personal transformation and being an embodiment of change.

Acceptance and Love (00:40:23): The importance of acceptance and love in helping others awaken and the role of the inner child's desires.

Guiding Role (00:42:36): The necessity for someone in a guiding role to have done their own inner work before leading others.

Ceremonia and Energetic Church (00:44:09): Information on where to find the work of Ceremonia and the energetic church, including resources and schedules.

In this episode of Flourish or Fold, I’m honored to welcome manifestation coach and author Kathleen Cameron. Join us as we talk about her transformation from a nurse to a world-traveling empowerment figure through unwavering faith and manifestation principles. Kathleen shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of profound faith, detachment from outcomes, and surrendering to the universe. 

The Genesis of a Manifested Life: Kathleen's story is nothing short of inspirational. In September of 2019, she made a pivotal decision to transform her life. As a registered nurse, she was well-acquainted with the healthcare world, but she yearned for something more. Kathleen embarked on a personal experiment, applying the principles of manifestation to her own life. The results were staggering. She transitioned from her nursing career to a life where she travels the world, empowers individuals, and enjoys the luxury she once only dreamed of. Her secret? Unwavering faith and the application of spiritual teachings.

The Role of Faith in Manifestation: During our conversation, Kathleen emphasized the significance of faith. She shared how her understanding of spirituality evolved, leading her to recognize a higher power at play. This profound faith became the cornerstone of her manifestation practice, allowing her to transmute her energy into her desires. Kathleen encourages everyone to find their own resonance with a higher power, as this personal connection is crucial to the manifestation process.

Cultivating Faith in the Unseen: For those skeptical or new to the concept of manifestation, Kathleen offers a compelling perspective. Faith, she explains, is about believing in the unseen. It's about trusting in the same way we trust gravity or the arrival of a package. Manifestation is about becoming aware of what already exists in the realm of possibility. If you can imagine it, it's within your reach. This belief in the unseen is the bedrock of faith that can lead to tangible results.

Detachment and Surrender: The Art of Letting Go: One of the most challenging aspects of manifestation is the desire to control outcomes. Kathleen speaks to the power of detachment and surrender. It's not about needing our desires to materialize; it's about asking for what we want and then allowing the universe to work its magic. This surrender is not a sign of weakness but a profound strength that aligns us with the energy of abundance and prosperity.

Personal Growth and Evolving Relationships: Kathleen's journey of manifestation has also deeply impacted her relationships. As she grew in consciousness, her reliance on others for decision-making diminished. She found empowerment from within, which led to the evolution of her friendships, marriage, and other connections. Some relationships flourished, while others naturally faded. Kathleen reflects on the beauty of learning from every relationship and the importance of leading with love and unconditional love for others.

"The Best of Yourself" and Manifest Toronto: Kathleen's new book, "The Best of Yourself," is a testament to her transformational journey. It's designed to help readers realize their true potential and empower them to embody the best version of themselves daily. Her vision is to guide individuals towards self-love, confidence, and a positive impact on the world. At her recent in-person event, "Manifest Toronto," Kathleen created a space for community, love, and empowerment. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve others and the reciprocal growth that comes from elevating those around her.

Debunking Manifestation Myths: Kathleen addresses the misconception that manifestation is separate from spirituality or a higher power. She firmly believes that manifestation is a divine tool and cannot be done without tapping into the energy of the universe or God. She also critiques the "fake it till you make it" approach, advocating for alignment with the energy of one's desires to truly manifest them.

My conversation with Kathleen Cameron was a deep dive into the interconnectedness of manifestation, personal growth, and spirituality. Her insights remind us that with profound faith, detachment, and surrender, we can all manifest the life we envision for ourselves. I hope this glimpse into our discussion has inspired you to explore the power of manifestation in your own life. Remember, it's not just about the destination but the journey of growth and resilience that shapes us.

Until next time, keep flourishing!

To learn more about Kathleen visit: https://kathleencameronofficial.com and on Instagram: @kathleencameronmanifests

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

Kathleen’s journey to manifestation (00:01:13): Kathleen discusses her inspirational journey from a registered nurse to a manifestation coach, emphasizing the power of faith and spiritual teachings.

Kathleen's personal manifestation journey (00:03:06): Kathleen shares her personal journey of manifesting and creating the life she loves, emphasizing the role of faith and personal transformation.

The role of faith in manifestation (00:05:40): Kathleen discusses the transformation in her belief system, from initially believing in the universe to developing profound faith and the impact of faith on manifestation.

Understanding and cultivating faith (00:07:05): The discussion delves into the process of understanding and cultivating faith, exploring the concept of a higher power and the impact of faith on personal growth and manifestation.

Manifestation and the power of imagination (00:11:24): Kathleen explains the role of faith in creating something not yet experienced, emphasizing the power of imagination and belief in manifesting desires.

Challenges in manifestation and detachment (00:14:31): The conversation explores challenges in manifestation, the impact of energy and belief systems on outcomes, and the significance of detachment in the manifestation process.

Impact of personal transformation on relationships (00:25:21): The segment explores the impact of personal growth and manifestation journey on relationships, including evolving friendships, changes in dynamics, and the influence of others on personal transformation.

Relationship Evolution (00:25:42): Kathleen discusses how her relationships have evolved and shifted due to her personal growth and consciousness.

Positive Manifestation (00:26:46): Kathleen shares her perspective on relationships, conflict resolution, and her evolving understanding of manifestation.

Manifestation without Time (00:33:29): Kathleen shares her perspective on time and urgency in setting goals for manifestation.

New Book: The Best of Yourself (00:34:59): Kathleen introduces her new book and discusses its focus on personal growth and self-realization.

Elevating Others (00:42:25): Kathleen discusses the reciprocal nature of growth through serving and elevating others.

Manifestation and God (00:43:12): Kathleen addresses the misconception that manifestation is separate from spirituality and explains her belief in manifestation with a higher power.

Practicing Being (00:44:50): Kathleen emphasizes the shift from "fake it till you make it" to "practicing being" in the context of personal growth and manifestation.

Abundance Journal (00:48:54): I share my practice of keeping an abundance journal, inspired by Kathleen's teachings on manifestation and my unexpected financial gains.

Manifestation Success Story (00:53:06): Kathleen shares a success story of a community member who manifested financial abundance and success.

Thinking Big (00:55:12): Kathleen encourages listeners to think beyond their current limitations and dream of an extraordinary life.

In this episode of Flourish or Fold, I’m joined by Liz Scott, co-executive director of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. Liz shares the inspiring story of her daughter, Alex, who started a lemonade stand to raise funds for her hospital which evolved into a foundation that has raised over $300 million for pediatric cancer research. Liz discusses the challenges of dealing with her daughter's illness, the importance of honesty when delivering bad news to children, and the power of small actions in making a difference. She also offers advice on dealing with difficult situations and emphasizes the importance of gratitude and seeking support.

The Lemonade Stand that Could: Liz shared the story of her daughter, Alex, who turned a simple lemonade stand into a beacon of hope, raising over $1 million during her lifetime for pediatric cancer research. Today, the foundation has raised over $300 million, a testament to the power of one small girl's dream.

The Power of Honesty: Liz and I discussed the challenges of delivering bad news to children, especially when it involves their own health. Liz's approach? Be truthful, straightforward, and mindful of not causing unnecessary pain. It's a delicate balance, but one that respects the child's understanding and resilience.

Facing Challenges Head-On: Liz offered some sage advice on dealing with difficult situations. Acknowledge your feelings, think about what you can do to improve the situation, and don't be afraid to seek support. Remember, it's okay to take time to process and heal.

Small Actions, Big Impact: Liz emphasized that everyone can make a difference. Whether it's hosting a lemonade stand, donating, or participating in events, your actions can create a ripple effect in changing the lives of children with cancer.

The Power of Unity: The success of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation is a testament to the power of community. Together, we can create positive change and make a difference in the world.

I hope Liz’s heartwarming story inspires you as much as it did me. Remember, no matter what life throws at you, there's always a way to turn lemons into lemonade. Thank you so much to her for joining us on Flourish or Fold this week and for sharing the foundation's work. It's a powerful reminder of the impact of unity and community in creating positive change. o action is too small, and together, we can make a difference.

Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations!

To learn more about Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation and how you can contribute and get involved: ttps://www.alexslemonade.org and on Instagram @alexslemonade

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The first lemonade stand (00:05:31): The story of Alex's first lemonade stand, where she raised $2000 and realized the impact she could make.

Moving to Philadelphia and starting again (00:08:14): Alex moves to Philadelphia and continues her lemonade stand tradition, raising even more money and gaining media attention.

The lemonade stand in memory of her friend Theresa (00:10:02): Alex holds a lemonade stand in memory of her friend Theresa, raising over $12000 and receiving donations and letters from across the country.

The Lemonade Stand (00:11:00): Liz Scott discusses the inspiration behind Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation and how her daughter, Alex, started a lemonade stand to raise money for pediatric cancer research.

Delivering Difficult News (00:12:12): Liz talks about the challenge of telling Alex about her friend's passing and how she navigated the conversation as a parent.

Turning Grief into Action (00:13:20): Liz shares how Alex responded to the news of her friend's death by deciding to do her lemonade stand and donate the money to fund cancer research.

The first lemonade stand (00:23:35): Liz Scott discusses the story of the first lemonade stand and how the community in West Hartford, Connecticut showed up to support the cause.

Facing hard things and seeking guidance (00:24:46): The host asks Liz for advice on how to face difficult situations and receive news that feels overwhelming or impossible.

Honoring Alex's legacy and current work of the foundation (00:34:33): Liz talks about how Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation is honoring Alex's legacy and funding pediatric cancer research on a large scale.

The Story Behind Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (00:35:36): Liz Scott discusses the foundation's mission and the story behind its creation, including how Alex wanted to help all kids with cancer, not just herself.

Progress in Pediatric Cancer Research (00:36:37): Liz talks about the progress made in pediatric cancer research, including increased survival rates and previously incurable kids being cured through clinical trials.

Opportunities to Get Involved with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (00:39:47): Liz shares various ways for people to get involved with the foundation, such as hosting a lemonade stand, participating in events, and making donations.

In this episode of "Flourish or Fold," entrepreneur Jimmy Rex joins us to discuss his personal journey of self-discovery and growth. He shares a pivotal childhood experience that shaped his self-perception and drive for achievement and talks about his transition from a fear-based mindset to one of love and abundance, the transformative power of forgiveness, and the importance of self-acceptance. He also discusses the significance of solitude and meditation in personal development. 

Turning Points: Jimmy shared a poignant story from his teenage years that became a turning point in his life. The feeling of not being good enough fueled his drive to always be the best. It's a reminder that our most challenging experiences can shape us in profound ways.

Motivation and Mindset: We delved into the different ways people tap into motivation. Jimmy confessed that he used to draw from a place of feeling inadequate. However, he realized this mindset was draining his potential and energy. His transformative journey led him to shift his motivation from fear to love and abundance.

Self-Acceptance and Success: Jimmy's realization that he no longer needed to prove himself was a game-changer. He reassures us that embracing self-acceptance and healing doesn't mean losing our drive or work ethic. Instead, it can lead to more abundance and success.

The Power of Solitude: Jimmy shared his journey of meditation and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of being comfortable with oneself. He no longer feels the need to constantly seek external validation, a powerful lesson for us all.

Forgiveness and Community: We discussed the importance of forgiveness and its impact on mental well-being. We also touched on the epidemic levels of loneliness in society and the importance of building a strong community. Jimmy shared valuable insights on being a good friend, setting boundaries, and investing in relationships.

Emotional Connection for Men: Jimmy's coaching group aims to help men reconnect with their emotions and learn how to communicate them effectively. He shared some of the transformative exercises they do, which often lead to emotional breakthroughs.

Thank you so much to Jimmy Rex for joining us on Flourish or Fold this week. Our conversation was a deep dive into the journey of self-discovery, self-love, and resilience. It was a testament to the power of shifting one's mindset from fear to love, and the importance of self-acceptance, forgiveness, and community in personal growth and development.

Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations!

To learn more about Jimmy and his work visit: https://www.mrjimmyrex.com and on Instagram @mrjimmyrex

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

Jimmy's Challenging Experience as a Teenager (00:03:22): Jimmy shares a personal story of feeling shame and embarrassment when he didn't make the all-star baseball team, which led to his drive for achievement and the belief that he wasn't good enough.

The journey of letting go (00:10:50): Jimmy discusses how he transitioned from being motivated by fear and negativity to tapping into a new energy and motivating himself from a place of love.

Healing and forgiveness with his father (00:12:23): Jimmy shares a healing moment with his father, expressing gratitude for his upbringing and letting go of any resentment or shame.

Finding a new purpose (00:15:21): Jimmy talks about revamping his purpose in life and finding fulfillment by sharing love, bringing happiness to others, and living an extraordinary life.

The shift towards community and support (00:17:39): Jimmy talks about how a community of like-minded individuals formed and supported each other after a transformative shift in his mindset.

The fear of losing your edge (00:18:26): Jimmy addresses the fear that letting go of feelings of unworthiness will result in losing motivation and drive, and discusses the process of shifting to a place of feeling good enough.

The power of connecting with oneself (00:25:36): Jimmy shares personal experiences of constantly seeking external connection and validation, and the importance of connecting with oneself through practices like spending time in nature.

The journey to self-connection (00:26:50): Jimmy discusses his experience with meditation and finding calmness within himself, leading to contentment and letting go of the need to constantly prove himself or seek external validation.

The importance of being alone with oneself (00:28:00): Dr. Taryn Marie emphasizes the significance of being comfortable and spending time alone without external stimulation, highlighting the opportunity for personal growth and development in solitude.

The power of forgiveness (00:33:41): Jimmy shares his journey of forgiveness, both towards himself and his father, and how prayer and a shift in perspective allowed him to let go of judgment and experience unconditional love.

Building community (00:37:12): Exploration of the epidemic levels of loneliness and isolation, and advice on how to build community and reconnect with others.

Men and emotions (00:43:16): Conversation about how men have been disconnected from their emotional process and the process of helping them reconnect with their emotions.

The breathwork session and connecting on a soul level (00:45:45): Jimmy discusses an exercise where participants engage in breathwork and then stare into each other's eyes, resulting in emotional connections and tears.

Putting people through a torture camp to reach a point of self-discovery (00:46:20): Jimmy explains why he puts participants through intense experiences, such as a torture camp with Navy SEALs, to help them break down emotional barriers and uncover hidden traumas.

Creating extreme experiences to facilitate vulnerability and deeper connections (00:48:53): Jimmy shares how extreme experiences like running with the bulls and cliff jumping help participants leave behind negative relationships, habits, or limiting beliefs, leading to vulnerability and deeper connections among the group.

On this week’s episode of Flourish or Fold, I had the absolute pleasure to host Julie Lewis, the author of the book "Still Positive." Our conversation was centered on her personal journey marked by unexpected challenges and a life-altering health diagnosis. This is not just a story about HIV/AIDS, but a human story about resilience, grace, and humanity in the face of adversity.

The Unexpected Call: Julie's life took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS following a blood transfusion in the 90s. Despite the devastating news, she chose to live each day with a positive attitude, focusing on being present for her children and envisioning a future she might not have.

Facing Discrimination: Julie's journey was not without challenges. From the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS to discrimination in healthcare settings, she faced it all. But Julie is a fighter. She used her experiences to educate others about bloodborne pathogens, changing attitudes one story at a time.

The Power of Advocacy: Julie's advocacy work is truly inspiring. She founded the 3030 Project and the 3030 Legacy Fund to address global healthcare inequities. Her mission? To build 30 healthcare facilities in areas with high HIV incidence or limited access to comprehensive healthcare.

Parenting Amidst Challenges: Julie's story is also a tale of parenting in the face of adversity. She emphasizes that parenting is about doing the best you can with the information and resources available. Her experience has taught her to appreciate life and find joy even on the toughest days.

The Role of Spirituality: Julie's journey has been deeply intertwined with her spirituality. She believes in the importance of acknowledging and sitting with sadness, and finding joy in the small things.

Julie's story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It's not just about HIV, but a mother's story, a family's story, and a story about the communities that supported her.

I invite you to listen to this episode and join us in celebrating Julie's resilience and positivity. Her story is sure to inspire you, challenge you, and perhaps even change the way you view life's unexpected challenges. It's a story that goes beyond HIV, touching on universal themes of family, community, and the human capacity to find grace and humanity in the face of adversity.

To learn more about Julie and her work visit: https://www.3030project.org and https://stillpositive.com and on Instagram @stillpositivebook 

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The phone call (00:05:23) Julie receives a phone call from her doctor informing her that she may have contracted HIV/AIDS through a blood transfusion.

Four years of isolation (00:07:26) Julie and her family decide not to disclose her HIV status for four years to protect her children from discrimination and stigma.

Navigating stigma and stereotypes (00:11:38) Julie discusses the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV/AIDS in the 1990s, including rejection from families and the intersection with homosexuality.

The fear and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS (00:12:47) Julie Lewis discusses the fear and misinformation surrounding HIV/AIDS, including how people were afraid to interact with those living with the disease and the impact it had on their daily lives.

The politicization of HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 (00:14:03) Julie Lewis compares the highly politicized response to HIV/AIDS in the past to the current COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the involvement of politicians and the spread of misinformation.

Facing discrimination and assumptions (00:15:56) Julie Lewis shares her personal experiences of discrimination and assumptions due to her HIV-positive status, including encounters with healthcare providers and the assumptions people made about her lifestyle and marriage status.

The 3030 Project (00:29:49) Julie Lewis discusses the origins and goals of the 3030 Project, which aimed to raise money to build 30 healthcare facilities around the world in honor of her friends who died from HIV/AIDS.

Building 31 Healthcare Facilities (00:35:08) Julie Lewis reflects on the challenges and successes of the 3030 Project, which ultimately resulted in the construction of 31 healthcare facilities in nine different countries, thanks to the support of a community of mostly women.

The Effort and Collaboration Involved (00:36:54) Julie Lewis emphasizes the immense effort and collaboration required to undertake the 3030 Project, including navigating different rules and regulations in various countries and the crucial role played by the organization Construction for Change.

The mom's story and family connection (00:38:25) Julie discusses how her book, "Still Positive," is not just about HIV/AIDS, but also a story of being a mom and a family coping with a health crisis.

Coping with trauma and anxiety (00:40:07) Julie talks about the decisions and challenges families face when dealing with a serious health issue, including managing anxiety and coping with trauma.

Finding positivity and appreciating life (00:47:00) Julie reflects on how living with a "death sentence" taught her to appreciate the small things in life and let go of unnecessary burdens, finding new ways to live and be positive.

The importance of Julie's book (00:50:09) Julie's book is discussed, highlighting its powerful story and the proceeds going towards greater health equity.

Recognizing the blessing of life (00:51:03) The host reflects on their conversation with Julie and emphasizes the importance of appreciating and enjoying life.

Promotion of online course (00:52:29) The host promotes an online course called "Flourish: The Five Practices of Highly Resilient People" and encourages listeners to check it out.

In this episode of Flourish or Fold, I am positively delighted to host Quinton Aaron, star of the Academy Award winning film "The Blind Side." Quinton joins me to discuss his life experiences, including his health challenges and personal struggles. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-love, and leading with love and also shares his belief in a higher power and the importance of taking control of one's destiny. 

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

Moving Forward, Not Dwelling on the Past

Quinton emphasized the importance of moving forward and not dwelling on the past. He acknowledged that mistakes are inevitable, but it's crucial not to let these setbacks break us. Instead, we should view them as stepping stones towards a better future.

Quinton and "The Blind Side"

Our conversation naturally veered towards Quinton's role in "The Blind Side." Many people have misconceptions about his life being similar to the character he portrayed. He clarified that while they may look similar, their upbringings were different. He grew up with a loving mother, while the character he played was raised in the foster system. However, both Quinton and his character shared a dream of achieving greatness and worked hard to make it a reality.

Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

When asked about a significant challenge that has shaped him into the person he is today, Quinton reflected on his health issues, including a heart condition and diabetes. He sees these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, and he strives to use his experiences to help others going through similar struggles.

Quinton's Faith and Beliefs

Quinton shared a series of remarkable experiences that have shaped his beliefs and strengthened his faith. He recounted a moment when he and his friends were dining at a restaurant and noticed a storm approaching. As they watched in awe, the storm suddenly dissipated, leaving the surroundings untouched. It was only later, when they encountered a police officer that they learned a tornado had passed through the area just minutes before.

Taking Control of One's Destiny

Quinton emphasized the importance of taking control of one's own destiny and not succumbing to the belief that certain conditions or illnesses are predetermined by family history. He believes that by making conscious choices and breaking unhealthy patterns, individuals can create a different outcome for themselves.

The Power of Believing in Oneself

Quinton shared a pivotal moment in his life when he received a call from his manager informing him that he had been cast as the lead role in the movie "The Blind Side." This news came at a time when Quinton was facing eviction and feeling uncertain about his future. The excitement and disbelief he felt upon receiving the news were overwhelming, and he immediately shared the news with his brother, who had been emotionally distant since their mother's passing.

Quinton's Struggles with Depression and Self-Worth

Quinton opened up about his personal struggles with depression and self-worth. He shared that while he never felt like he wanted to end his life, he did experience feelings of loneliness and a belief that he didn't deserve the things he desired. However, he learned an important lesson from someone who told him to find happiness within himself, rather than relying on others.

Quinton's Future Roles and Projects

When asked about his future roles as an actor, Quinton expressed that, while he is open to various genres, he is leaning towards love stories and playing the guy who gets the girl in romantic comedies. Quinton also discussed his upcoming projects and his mission to spread love and positivity through his music. He mentioned a song called "Find a New Way" that he will be performing with his brother, who is also a rapper.

We were truly honored and delighted to have Quinton as a guest. His ability to face challenges and continue to make a positive impact in the world is truly inspiring. Quinton's positive outlook and ability to find meaning in difficult situations are uplifting and inspiring. His ability to face challenges and continue to make a positive impact in the world is truly inspiring. We admire his resilience and determination to reinvent himself. Thank you so much to Quinton for joining us

To learn more about Quinton and his latest acting and musical endeavors please visit him at the following locations:

Official Site: https://www.iamquintonaaron.com/

Instagram: @officialquintonaaron

Facebook: @iamquintonaaron

TikTok: @iamquintonaaron

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The call that changed Quinton's life (00:01:34): Quinton Aaron discusses the life-changing moment when he received the call for his role in "The Blind Side" and the similarities between himself and the character he portrayed.

Facing challenges and finding purpose (00:06:01): Quinton reflects on the challenges he has faced, including health issues, and how he uses them to grow, help others, and find his purpose.

Encounter with a tornado (00:11:25): Quinton recounts a personal experience during COVID-19 where he witnessed a tornado and the mix of fear and calmness he felt in that moment.

The Tornado Encounter (00:13:24): Quinton recounts his experience with a tornado and how it led to a realization about fear and faith.

Facing a Scary Diagnosis (00:16:40): Quinton discusses his diagnosis of congestive heart failure and how he chose to approach it with faith and determination.

Creating a Different Prognosis (00:20:14): Quinton talks about the importance of making lifestyle changes to overcome hereditary health conditions and create a different outcome.

The Blind Side is Underway (00:27:35): Quinton's manager calls to inform him that he has booked the lead role in "The Blind Side" movie.

First Smile Since His Mom's Passing (00:29:37): Quinton's brother reacts with joy and laughter upon hearing the news of Quinton booking the lead role.

Challenges and Flourishing in Life (00:35:41): Quinton discusses the importance of facing challenges, learning from them, and continuing to flourish in life.

Depression and self-worth (00:41:03): Quinton discusses his experience with depression, feeling lonely and unworthy, and the importance of finding happiness within oneself.

Practicing self-love: (00:43:18): The conversation focuses on the importance of practicing self-love and how it impacts one's ability to love others.

Acting aspirations (00:45:24): Quinton shares his desire to play the lead in romantic comedies and action films, discussing his dreams of being an action star and his love for comedy.

The Resilience of Quinton Aaron (00:55:59): Quinton shares his wisdom and knowledge on cultivating resilience and finding meaning in challenges.

Quinton Aaron's Slogan (00:56:45): Quinton discusses his slogan and the importance of thinking and doing something good.

I recently had the pleasure of hosting Caitlin Crosby, the founder and CEO of The Giving Keys on this week’s episode of Flourish or Fold. Caitlin is a visionary who has been named among Oprah's Super Soul 100 list. Her company, The Giving Keys, is a jewelry and lifestyle brand that operates on a pay-it-forward model which creates products with inspirational words and encourage customers to pass them on to someone who needs them more. Each key comes with a story of why it was given away.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

The Birth of The Giving Keys: Caitlin's journey began with a simple hotel room key turned necklace. This sparked an idea that has since employed over 150 people transitioning out of homelessness.

Adapting to Change: The pandemic forced The Giving Keys to pivot their business model. They now donate proceeds to nonprofits helping those experiencing homelessness find jobs and continue to share inspiring pay-it-forward stories.

Authenticity and Genuine Care: Caitlin emphasizes the importance of authenticity when starting a brand or movement. She believes consumers can sense when someone is not truly invested in their cause.

The Power of Creativity: Caitlin shares the pros and cons of being a freely creative and vision-led entrepreneur. She acknowledges that being driven by emotions can sometimes be a challenge, but it also allows her to bring her ideas to life in the moment.

Overcoming Challenges: Caitlin opens up about the hardships she faced when her former CFO embezzled funds from the company, and the struggle of balancing motherhood and running a stressful business. Despite these challenges, she remains determined and has found empowerment in taking on additional roles within the company.

A Message of Hope: Caitlin leaves us with a heartfelt message, assuring us that we are not alone and that there is always hope. She encourages us to believe in our purpose and not give up.

As a token of appreciation for your support, Caitlin is offering a 30% discount on The Giving Keys website with the code "flourish30". Each purchase helps uplift humanity and support important charities.

I hope you find Caitlin's story as inspiring as I did. Remember, true joy and happiness come from meaningful connections with others. So, why not like, comment, download and share this episode with someone who could use a little inspiration today? We're excited to hear your thoughts and what you've learned from our conversation.

To learn more about Caitlin and her work visit: https://www.thegivingkeys.com/ and on Instagram @caitlincrosby

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The giving keys and its mission (00:04:31): Caitlin explains the concept behind The Giving Keys, a pay-it-forward jewelry company that empowers people through inspirational words and stories.

Meeting a homeless couple and starting The Giving Keys (00:06:13): Caitlin shares the authentic moment that led her to employ a homeless couple to engrave inspirational words on old keys, which eventually grew into The Giving Keys.

Evolution of The Giving Keys and its impact (00:08:32): Caitlin discusses how The Giving Keys adapted during the pandemic and shifted its focus to donating proceeds to nonprofits that help people transition out of homelessness.

The moment that sparked The Giving Keys (00:11:34): Caitlin recounts the moment she saw two people holding a sign that said "ugly, broke, and hungry" and how it inspired her to help others.

The importance of authenticity in starting a brand (00:14:11): Caitlin emphasizes the importance of genuinely caring about the cause or movement behind a brand, and how consumers can sense authenticity.

Using personal pain and struggles for a greater purpose (00:18:25): Caitlin discusses channeling personal pain, trauma, and struggles into creating products, writing books, and other projects that can help others.

The Highlights (00:27:15): Caitlin talks about the highlights of her journey with The Giving Keys, including being chosen by Oprah and helping people turn their lives around.

Challenges of Entrepreneurship (00:35:06): Caitlin shares the challenge of having a CFO embezzle money while she was on maternity leave and the importance of trusting her intuition.

The Importance of Humanity (00:33:52): Caitlin discusses the importance of focusing on the humanity aspect of success and happiness, rather than just business achievements.

The CFO Embezzlement (00:36:22):Caitlin talks about her experience with a CFO who embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from her company.

Balancing Work and Motherhood (00:37:21): Caitlin discusses the challenges of being a working mom and trying to find a balance between running a company and being present for her children.

Trusting Your Gut (00:41:33): Caitlin shares her advice on trusting your instincts and listening to your gut when something doesn't feel right in a relationship or situation.

Discount code for The Giving Keys (00:47:58): Caitlin Crosby offers a discount code, "flourish30," for 30% off on The Giving Keys website.

Message of hope and inspiration (00:49:19): Caitlin Crosby shares a heartfelt message of hope, reminding listeners that they are loved, special, and not alone.

The impact of purchasing Giving Keys (00:49:48):The host highlights the significance of purchasing Giving Keys as holiday gifts, as a portion of the proceeds goes towards uplifting humanity and important charities.

On this week’s episode "Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience," I had the pleasure of interviewing Jenna Banks, a keynote speaker, social impact entrepreneur, and best-selling author of the book I Love Me More: How To Find Happiness and Success Through Self-Love.Jenna's work is centered around empowering women and promoting self-love, a topic that is often misunderstood and undervalued in our society.

The Misconception of Self-Love

Jenna began our conversation by addressing the common misconception that self-love is selfish or narcissistic, especially for women. She explained that society often conditions women to believe that self-love is selfish. However, Jenna firmly believes that this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, she argues that self-love empowers women and is a necessary component for achieving true gender equality.

The Role of a Social Impact Entrepreneur

As a social impact entrepreneur, Jenna's focus is on making a positive impact on society through her work. She is currently developing a platform called “Powerful Women,” which aims to empower women worldwide through a social network. When asked to explain what it means to be a social impact entrepreneur, Jenna shared that it involves making an impact on society by helping others through speaking, teaching, coaching, and creating platforms that do good beyond just making a profit.

The Journey to Self-Love and Empowerment

Jenna's focus on women's empowerment stems from her personal journey to self-love. She had to overcome many hurdles, including a strict religious upbringing, abusive relationships, and suicidal thoughts. Despite these hardships, Jenna believes that these experiences shaped her into the resilient person she is today. She emphasizes that it is through facing challenges that we gain wisdom and strength.

Jenna shared a powerful story about a valuable employee who was willing to walk away from a job that didn't value her. This bold move led to her promotion and subsequent success. Jenna encourages women to celebrate their small wins and to prioritize self-love and self-value.

The Power of Choice

Jenna also discussed the power of choice and how it can transform our lives. She emphasized that we have the ability to shift our energy and decide what matters to us. We can choose to not give our thoughts, attention, and care to things that bother us. Jenna believes that conditioning and societal expectations can make us forget that we have a choice. However, she encourages us to remember that choice is our superpower and that we can create our world based on what serves us best.

The Importance of Self-Love

I have the utmost admiration for Jenna's incredible work in the world. I appreciated how Jenna decouples the idea of self-love from selfishness or narcissism, highlighting that it is a pure and foundational aspect of our humanity.

I believe that Jenna's message is timely, especially in a world where it is easy to feel angry, frustrated, and disappointed with oneself and the world. The more we love ourselves, the more we can share love with others. Her message is a reminder that we all have the power to choose what matters to us and to create a world that serves us best.

I'm incredibly grateful for Jenna's contribution to our conversation and the wisdom she shared. Her words are sure to impact many lives, and I hope they resonate with you as well. Remember, the more we love ourselves, the more we can share love with others. So, let's continue to flourish and spread love in our world.

I hope you'll join us in this journey towards resilience. Don't forget to like, comment, download, and share our podcast. We're excited to hear your thoughts and what you've learned from our conversation.

To learn more about Jenna, her work and her book, visit: https://jenna-banks.com/ and http://ilovememorebook.com/

Here are some highlights of the episode to look forward to:

The importance of self-love and women's empowerment [00:04:04]: Jenna discusses the societal conditioning that leads women to believe that self-love is selfish and the need for women to empower themselves from within.

Unconscious disempowering social norms [00:07:30]: Jenna talks about how women tend to apologize excessively and downplay their achievements, and how these behaviors affect their sense of power and success.

The power of holding boundaries [00:09:35]: Jenna highlights the problem of women not setting and enforcing boundaries, and how societal conditioning of being a "nice girl" often prioritizes others' feelings over their own.

The power of speaking up [00:11:46]: Jenna shares a story about a woman who finally spoke up about her accomplishments at work and how it led to her getting promoted.

Valuing oneself and walking away [00:12:54]: Jenna emphasizes the importance of valuing oneself and being willing to walk away from situations where one's worth is not recognized, using both personal and professional examples.

Overcoming challenges and self-love [00:16:16]: Jenna shares her personal journey of overcoming various challenges, including leaving an abusive home, becoming a single mother, and battling with suicidal thoughts, and how it ultimately led her to learn to love herself more.

The power of choice [00:24:05]: Jenna discusses the power of choice and how it allows us to decide what matters in our lives.

Learned helplessness [00:28:31]: Jenna shares a story about an experiment with dogs that demonstrates how humans can develop learned helplessness and forget that they have a choice.

Unlimited possibilities [00:31:14]: Jenna emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unlimited possibilities available to us and how they can drive us forward in navigating challenges.

Creating a Powerful Women Network [00:34:20]: Jenna discusses her new platform called Powerful Women, which aims to create a safe space for women to support and empower each other.

Importance of Sisterhood and Support [00:35:27]: Jenna emphasizes the need for women to support one another and create a culture of sisterhood instead of competition.

We’ve changed things up a bit with this latest episode of our podcast, "Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience." Today we are featuring my appearance from a couple of weeks ago when I moderated a panel for CDM Media - Integrated Media. It was truly an honor to volunteer my time and donate my best-selling books to be of service to executives in Human Resources.

I was so grateful to be able to shares my inspiration for writing The 5 Practices of Highly Resilient People, which was heavily influenced by my experiences working with women in rural areas and individuals with traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. All of which truly shaped my unique perspective on resilience.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

Redefining Resilience: Contrary to popular belief, resilience isn't about bouncing back to our previous state. It's about bouncing forward, allowing our experiences to transform us.

The Five Essential Qualities of Resilient People: I shared the five practices I’ve discovered through my extensive research and interviews, which serve as a roadmap for navigating life's challenges.

The Power of Vulnerability: Vulnerability isn't about sharing everything with everyone. It's about aligning our inner thoughts and feelings with our outward selves. This alignment is crucial for effective leadership and personal well-being.

Overcoming the Vulnerability Bias: We often fear vulnerability, thinking it might lead to rejection. I emphasize the importance of overcoming this bias for authentic and empathetic leadership.

Being "Self-Full": I introduce the concept of being "self full" - prioritizing self-care to reach our highest potential. It's about putting on our own oxygen mask first before helping others.

My mission is to help individuals and organizations build resilience and well-being, a cause I'm sure we can all get behind. I'm excited for you to listen to this episode and gain some valuable insights into resilience, vulnerability, and self-care. I'd like to remind you about our online course, "Flourish: The Five Practices of Highly Resilient People," available on our website www.resilience-leadership.com. It's a one-on-one tutorial with me, offering hours of content for learning and coaching on the five practices of resilience.

Stay tuned for more exciting conversations and remember, resilience is not just about surviving, it's about thriving! Don't forget to like, comment, download, and share our podcast. We're excited to hear your thoughts and what you've learned from our conversation.