About Progress

Three years ago Lisa Funk was a guest here and something she said has stuck with me ever since, "We are born to create." We talk often about the importance of creativity in this community, and how it can (and should!) look different for each of us. Today we're tying in our identity with doable tips to create purpose with what you already love.   Lisa is a gifted artist and teacher of mindful lettering, as she describes it. She shares her own journey to live with, and create, purpose in a way that will encourage you to do the same. For example, taking opportunities to find purpose in your natural gifts and everyday life. With her doable tips you can find fulfillment through what you love and then attaching the meaning to it.   About a few other things...   I'm teaching a FREE CLASS this month on a very highly requested topic: decision-making! Join me live, online, to uncover the 2 secrets to beating confusion and making clear decisions that are right for you. If you can't attend live a replay will be sen

How often, when asked to introduce yourself, do you describe what you do and not who you are? Instead of placing emphasis on your roles and responsibilities, it's time to uncover your identity and purpose. I've experienced my own dramatic identity shifts several times over my life because I was too focused on my roles. I want to urge you to continue to seek purpose, with respect to the season you're currently in.   I have two big reasons why this common pitfall, placing too much emphasis on roles and responsibilities, is dangerous. Seasons shift and circumstances change, (often without our permission!) so by focusing instead on your identity and purpose you will be able to anchor in and navigate those roads more surely. Tune in as I address a few specific situations, and offer tips you can apply right away to digging into your purpose.   About a few other things...   Quality over quantity really matters to me during this season of my life, and you know I've applied that to my wardrobe. Sols offers beaut

As a young child you could hardly find me without a book, as reading was something I truly loved and carried a passion for into adulthood. As I became a mother, it continued, but slowed to a halt after my third child was born. When I created my first Do Something Plan I nervously wrote down "read 20 books" thinking I might never reach that goal. But slowly, I got back into my book worm ways and this year hope to read 80 books. See my top book recommendations here!   Tune in to hear the 3 ways you can make reading a part of your life again, or for the first time. These tips will work for anyone because I'm addressing your approach to reading. With these tricks you can create this habit, even if it starts small, and develop a really fulfilling relationship with reading.   About a few other things...   Can you help me out really quickly? Take this 3-5 minute survey that let's me know how to better serve you, the women of this community. I'll select 5 participants to receive a thank you gift!   Sign up fo

When I created my first ever Do Something Plan 5 years ago it was simply to try to dig my way out from under a quarter-life identity crisis. I say simply not because it was a small task, but because I had no idea what it would become, just that I needed to do something. If you also find yourself feeling stuck, or unfulfilled, (even if you have the things you want!) then this episode on easy ways to find yourself, no matter how late, is just for you.   Mikayla Johnson is a Progressor, a member of this community, just like you. In this episode she details the many hats she has worn, from hobbies to businesses, as well as her own quarter-life crisis. Through pursuing even the smallest of interests, without the pressure of perfection, Mikayla is more secure in her identity than ever. Tune in and see if you can catch her "I am" proclamation about her current pursuit, it is truly inspiring!   About a few other things...   Can you help me out really quickly? Take this 3-5 minute survey that let's me know how t

If you've been a part of this community for a little while, you already know I'm not opposed to treating yourself, but I am opposed to the idea that it is the same as true self care. Instead of just sticking a bandaid over what can be a real wound, it's time to learn the ways to practice deep self care, beyond the treat yourself variety.   Podcaster and coach, Taylor Elyse Morrison, is on the show today to share her expertise on self care. She teaches us hard-hitting definitions, as well as the five dimensions you actually need to focus on. Plus, an example of where to start right now when it comes to those areas: physical, energetic, mental, emotional and bliss. You are unique, no one can tell you what your self care looks like, so it's time to develop your own self expertise to be your strongest self in any situation.   About a few other things...   Can you help me out really quickly? Take this 3-5 minute survey that let's me know how to better serve you, the women of this community. I'll select 5 par

When the opportunity arose to have one of our previous guest's twin sister on the show, I rearranged a lot because this interview is exactly what so many of us need to hear. In episode 97, Lindsay Kite taught us how to build a resilient body image. Today, Lexie Kite brings us up to speed with their recent accomplishments and delivers another powerful episode on how to over come body obsession, and as she says, come home to your self.   Since they both received their PhD's in media and body image, Lindsay and Lexie Kite are the sisters behind Beauty Redefined and "More Than a Body," their most recent book. Having faced the same pressures and unrealistic ideals of female body image, Lexie knows where each of us is and meets us there with simple steps to overcome an ingrained obsession. It's time to stop holding yourself back, the world needs you. Tune in for the mantra you need to remember, how to deal with shame, and one super practical tip for social media usage that you can implement right away.   About

Years ago I shattered a bottle of balsamic vinegar, and in the nightmarish process of cleaning it up I lost it. It made me rage, scaring myself and my young children. I knew something had to change. My life was everything I wanted, but I was still stuck. If you've been there, or are there now, I want to share my approach to feeling different even when things looks the same.   By belonging to yourself, learning to be wholehearted in your approach, you will feel more fulfilled and have more energy and love to give to others. Much of what I've learned has stemmed from my original, and subsequent, Do Something lists, and you can see this year's here. Listen to the episode and the interviews this month for hopeful ways to begin, with experiences from my personal past and those I've worked with.   About a few other things...   This year I want to bring on members of this community as sponsors for the podcast! If you are interested in partnering please send me an email at hello{at}aboutprogress.com with the su

You don't need to ignore your past, or shove it deep down. There is a fine balance between acknowledging it and moving beyond it - whether that's lifelong struggles or even just this past year. Tune in to this inspiring story about how to effectively shake off your past for a better future.   Against all odds, Michael Arterberry has pushed through immense struggle since childhood, to be the motivational speaker and author that he is today. He is also the creator of an intensive program for youth, which he describes as only being possible due to his own healing. His heart wrenching story is one of resilience, with a practical application so that you can also move forward in a way that is in alignment with your goals and doesn't dismiss your past.   About a few other things...   One or two times a year I open enrollment to my small group coaching Progress Program, where we focus on transforming your body, mind, and spirit by combining mindset and action. If you're searching for your identity, feeling like

Olympic athletes...they're just like us! Or at least that's what this interview with medalist Noelle Pikus-Pace will have you thinking. Her major secrets you need to now to accomplish your biggest goals are based on mindset, purpose, values, and relationships.   She offers three simple tips, and ultimately reminds everyone to start super, super simple. Listeners from this community will especially resonate with her approach to habits, and her unique bucket list (spoiler: it's a lot like a Do Something plan!) Plus, the stories from her Olympic and World Cup victories, intertwined with family and travel, offer a fascinating perspective.   About a few other things...   One or two times a year I open enrollment to my small group coaching Progress Program, where we focus on transforming your body, mind, and spirit by combining mindset and action. If you're searching for your identity, feeling like you don't have purpose, then this group with will provide the guidance and accountability that you need. You can

It was only three years ago that I got back into goal-making (the right way) and that year it took me three months to even decide on them all. I've been on both sides of the all-or-nothing pendulum of attitudes towards goals, so I understand wherever you are. In this episode I'm teaching you how to make goals that won't kill you, with four reasons you're likely struggling and what to do about it.   Through my experience, and through working with others, I've seen the mistakes we all tend to make when goal-setting. Whether or not you've made your yearly list, you can tune in to learn something that may surprise you. Set yourself up for success this year with my formula, it's easier than you are probably making it for yourself right now.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find more and lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Join us for weekly chats, monthly m

Licensed marriage and sex therapist, Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife is well known to this community. Today she is joined by her sister, Carolyn Bever who is an acclaimed violinist. Through their respective careers they have both seen how a lot of people become overwhelmed at the prospect of getting from where they are, to where they can go, because of perfectionism. Together they teach the importance of knowing your strengths, your own capacity, and how strive for excellence in a way that works for you.   Tune in to hear how Carolyn went from musician to marathoner, by taking it literally one block at a time. As well as, a "bad Jennifer story" where she shares an insecurity that may resonate with many listeners. Ultimately remember that the struggle with perfectionism is a very human struggle and how to move the needle anyway.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find m

If you've been around here for a little while you may know the story of how this blog, and now podcast and community, got started. Years ago, I was a shell of myself, an underachieving perfectionist, but I had an idea. I made a bucket list of sorts, 30 things to do before I turned 30. This list is now what I have coined a "Do Something List" and I make a point to recreate it every year, you can even read my list for 2021! You deserve more and you are ready for more, let me help. I encourage you to start with last week's episode, Do Something to Unlock the Best Version of You.   In this episode I want to do away with the negative stereotype of being a January Joiner, so that whatever you start right now will set you up for success. There is even a free handbook you can get that will really guide you towards getting started. In this episode I detail 3 pitfalls that I think you may be facing, and specifically how to avoid those. This isn't magic, friends, but to me it is magical when I see the women of this co

Goals are GREAT. But, what if you are simply too tuckered out from 2021 to overhaul alllll of the things right now? What if you are empty inside from a year of giving so much, FROM so very little? What if you'd of course like to work on your habits, but you first need to figure out who you are SO that you can decide what those habits should even be? 5 years ago, I accidentally changed my life. And it wasn't because I made goals. In fact, it was because I made the opposite of goals. In today's bonus episode, I wanted to provide you with the same path that changed me: Do Something. You'll hear a special recording I made as I taught a Masterclass to my Strive Hive membership group this past week. They kindly let me share it with you, so that our whole community could be trained the way there were and create their own Do Something Plans for 2021. I want to re-emphasize here: goals are great. I want you to make them and pursue them. But the Do Something Plan is a terrific way to marry fulfillment with prog

As always, I'm sharing a little bit about what my family and myself have been up to, and why I'm actually recording from out of town. Plus, a little update about our future home and current homeschooling. I'm also excited to share my latest "good hard," meaning something that was really hard but has made me really proud.   For this episode I called on you, the listeners, to share what this unexpected year taught you. 2020 taught me the importance of home, hobbies, and habits. I explain more in the episode about what that has meant to me. Tune in to listen to members from the About Progress community who graciously submitted soundbites sharing what this year has taught them!   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find more and lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Join us for weekly chats, monthly masterclasses, self development book club, accountability and more!  

During this time of year, and going into a new year, it's so important to know who you are. I am re-airing my favorite episode from 2020 to help you get started!   Arielle Estoria is a creator, writer, and speaker spreading light and positivity. She was also a self described “professional wallflower” for many years. Her description of not wanting to take up too much space may resonate with many of you, as it totally did for me. She details how she broke free of that mentality, giving herself permission and gaining the confidence she feels is her gift to share with others.   It’s time to recognize the power and gifts you already have, and step into the power they hold. If this feels too vulnerable, that’s normal. Arielle has just two steps you can take to “dream it out” and start living the life you’ve been given.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find more

Amidst the lengthy lists we make this time of year, including gifts to buy and service to render, are you on the list? While it's extra relevant throughout this holiday season, it matters all year long, too. In this episode I'm sharing why it's such a big deal to prioritize yourself, and the ways in which you start doing it right away.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find more and lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Join us for weekly chats, monthly masterclasses, self development book club, accountability and more!   Sign up for the Go Getter Newsletter to get Progress Pointers in your inbox every Thursday.   SHOW NOTES Join Podcast University and learn how to start or grow your podcast! COVID School Resource Guide Get the Organization Overhaul audio course Join the monthly membership group Get your first month+ FREE with Libsyn using code M

Are you a little bit tired of the "rah-rah" messages of positivity despite all circumstance messages out there? What if you could lean into growth, while acknowledging the vast array of disappointment that all of us are experiencing to some degree. In fact, the reasons we become discouraged are often appropriate and logical, so would it help you to learn why discouragement is a gift?   Suzy Boyce Chriswell is a fellow progressor, just like you, and she's currently pursuing a master's in marriage and family therapy. She shares her experience of seeing the depths of discouragement in those around her, while coming to understand its necessity. She teaches us how to be resilient, lean in to relationships, and shift our perspective. And before you think this won't work for you, she shares her same struggles with perfectionism. Ultimately she realized it was only a buffer against accepting her weakness and working through it.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to t

If you've been around for any amount of time you know this, but our premise here is that life is about progress, not perfection. As a recovering perfectionist I know the highs are so high, but the lows can destroy your sense of self. There is no overnight cure for breaking out of that cycle. Sometimes we are taught the opposite is true, but really once you see how perfectionism is getting your way, you are free to live a more fulfilling life.   You will know Kolbie Blume as an artist, author, and teacher...now. But she has not always been the successful creative that she is today. In this interview she really opens up about the exact moment she decided the worst thing she could do by trying something, was fail, but that her world wouldn't end there. Kolbie's message is about how creativity (something EVERYONE has within them) is the antidote for the poison of perfectionism and this epode will leave you with a lot to think about and act upon.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progress

I really don't like the word "should." Whether you've found others "shoulding" on you, or you "should" on yourself, it usually doesn't feel very good. Instead, say "I could do this..." or whatever else you could do. As we've been discussing that it's never too late I want to also impress upon you that there are times and seasons for all things.   In this episode I'm sharing two very personal times from my life, during which at both times I felt pulled in different ways and like something needed to change. I approached these different seasons with different solutions, but both were right for me and my family. In hopes to help you find peace with your particular time and season, I also share the moment my very wise husband told me "Now now, but not never."   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progressors who are eager to take action and strive for daily progress access LEARNING, CHANGE, AND COMMUNITY, so that they can find more and lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Join us for week

Was there something you really loved as a child and gave up on? Or, even a passion you found more recently, but you convinced yourself was too late to pursue. What if you instead looked at those things as seeds. Even if realizing your dreams as you once dreamed them seems impossible, it is possible to learn to evolve alongside your gifts and grow from those seeds.   Carol Lynn is a personal friend that I meant at church during a particularly low point in my own spirituality. She opens up in the episode about some of the more defining points in her life, and she has had her fair share of loss. Through theater, books, and poetry she stays connected to her lifelong interests. Those gifts have helped her weather storms, but also pursue her own thoughts especially as it concerns elements of her faith. Tune in to hear Carol Lynn reading some of her works in her own majestic voice and leave inspired by this women who continues to marvel into her late age.   About a few other things...   The Strive Hive helps Progres