Ryan France

After nearly six months of radio silence, host, Ryan France, answers the question, "What happened to the Voices of Impact Podcast?"  Catch the previous 52 episodes and interviews at VoicesOfImpact.com Keep in touch with Ryan at RyanFrance.com

After nearly six months of radio silence, host, Ryan France, answers the question, "What happened to the Voices of Impact Podcast?"  Catch the previous 52 episodes and interviews at <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">VoicesOfImpact.com</a> Keep in touch with Ryan at <a href="http://www.ryanfrance.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">RyanFrance.com</a>

Ryan France - The Final Episode of Voices of Impact

Nancy Krenek

The Real Story Behind The Healing Power Of Equine Therapy Nancy Krenek's career as a physical therapist had come to a crossroads. She'd spent more than a decade working with clients suffering from mobility issues. She saw firsthand the positive change that occurred when they received power wheelchairs. According to Nancy, "it woke them up to another level of potential." She was certain she'd devote her life to helping others regain their mobility and free choice. And yet, she couldn't shake the dream of spearheading horse-assisted therapy sessions. So, before she could talk herself out of it, she quit her job with a mission to make that happen. “I went to my boss and resigned. She said, ‘Do you have training?’ I said, ‘No ma’am.’ She said, ‘Do you have a horse?’ I said, ‘No ma’am.’ She said, ‘Do you have land?’ I said, ‘No ma’am. But someday you’ll bring a school bus out to our program and make it work.’ That’s true now. She still shows up every week to bring children from our school district to this facility.” Twenty years later, the Ride On Center For Kids (ROCK) has exceeded even Nancy’s wildest dreams. The sprawling Georgetown ranch is now home to 29 horses. It's powered by 400 volunteers and a passionate staff that serves 350-400 families each year. But even that isn't enough to meet the local demand for equine-assisted therapy. Krenek and her team at ROCK are in the midst of capital campaign to add an second arena and increase its staff size. Her efforts don’t stop there. Nancy says she's driven to create an organization that can thrive with or without her at the helm. "Our vision, is to be the trusted leader in this industry, through service, research and education." True to her word, she's partnered with several local universities and contributed to 20+ research projects, all with the purpose of helping deliver more equine-assisted miracles. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Nancy talks about the story behind the healing power of equine therapy. We discuss the shift from reactive business to strategic business, how vision and practice change over 20+ years of service, and the true miracles she’s seen on the ROCK ranch.

The Real Story Behind The Healing Power Of Equine Therapy Nancy Krenek's career as a physical therapist had come to a crossroads. She'd spent more than a decade working with clients suffering from mobility issues. She saw firsthand the positive change that occurred when they received power wheelchairs. According to Nancy, "it woke them up to another level of potential." She was certain she'd devote her life to helping others regain their mobility and free choice. And yet, she couldn't shake the dream of spearheading horse-assisted therapy sessions. So, before she could talk herself out of it, she quit her job with a mission to make that happen. “I went to my boss and resigned. She said, ‘Do you have training?’ I said, ‘No ma’am.’ She said, ‘Do you have a horse?’ I said, ‘No ma’am.’ She said, ‘Do you have land?’ I said, ‘No ma’am. But someday you’ll bring a school bus out to our program and make it work.’ That’s true now. She still shows up every week to bring children from our school district to this facility.” Twenty years later, the Ride On Center For Kids (ROCK) has exceeded even Nancy’s wildest dreams. The sprawling Georgetown ranch is now home to 29 horses. It's powered by 400 volunteers and a passionate staff that serves 350-400 families each year. But even that isn't enough to meet the local demand for equine-assisted therapy. Krenek and her team at ROCK are in the midst of capital campaign to add an second arena and increase its staff size. Her efforts don’t stop there. Nancy says she's driven to create an organization that can thrive with or without her at the helm. "Our vision, is to be the trusted leader in this industry, through service, research and education." True to her word, she's partnered with several local universities and contributed to 20+ research projects, all with the purpose of helping deliver more equine-assisted miracles. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Nancy talks about the story behind the healing power of equine therapy. We discuss the shift from reactive business to strategic business, how vision and practice change over 20+ years of service, and the true miracles she’s seen on the ROCK ranch.

Nancy Krenek - Ride On Center For Kids

Ellie Falcao

A Quest to Raise $18MM to Fund Austin’s New ‘Camp For All’   With twin nine year olds of her own, Ellie Falcao understands the struggle of getting kids out from behind their screens and into nature. Inspired by a tour of YMCA Camp Moody, Ellie recalled her own favorite times as a child in the wilderness of Colorado, and vowed to transform her family to outdoor enthusiasts. Since experiencing Camp Moody, Ellie and her family have since ventured through 44% of our country’s National Parks and goal to hit all 58 before the kids leave for college. Ellie felt a call to join the larger mission of setting up YMCA Camp Moody for success. She was asked to join the board, and has helped spearhead the high-end $18M fundraising initiative ever since. Her favorite part? Seeing the tangible effect of her volunteer efforts. “I didnt want to be on a board in name only. I wanted to get my hands dirty and affect the organization in a better way. The great thing about the ‘Y’ is that they ask you to participate in making a bigger difference.”   YMCA Camp Moody’s “Camp For All” concept, Ellie says, will deeply resonate with the Austin community. Not only will it be a facility accommodated to all levels of social and physical ability, it will also never reject any camper for their ability to pay. Fighting the not-so-shocking metric that children are spending 50% less time in nature than they did 20 years ago, YMCA Camp Moody will seek to bring alive the natural wonders in the Austin area and inspire our younger generation to explore the outdoors. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Ellie talks about what it’s like to lead the charge in funding the $18MM project. We discuss the importance of the outdoors, creating an oasis in Austin, and providing an inclusive experience. Ellie also shares her personal connection to the cause.

A Quest to Raise $18MM to Fund Austin’s New ‘Camp For All’ With twin nine year olds of her own, Ellie Falcao understands the struggle of getting kids out from behind their screens and into nature. Inspired by a tour of YMCA Camp Moody, Ellie recalled her own favorite times as a child in the wilderness of Colorado, and vowed to transform her family to outdoor enthusiasts. Since experiencing Camp Moody, Ellie and her family have since ventured through 44% of our country’s National Parks and goal to hit all 58 before the kids leave for college. Ellie felt a call to join the larger mission of setting up YMCA Camp Moody for success. She was asked to join the board, and has helped spearhead the high-end $18M fundraising initiative ever since. Her favorite part? Seeing the tangible effect of her volunteer efforts. “I didnt want to be on a board in name only. I wanted to get my hands dirty and affect the organization in a better way. The great thing about the ‘Y’ is that they ask you to participate in making a bigger difference.”   YMCA Camp Moody’s “Camp For All” concept, Ellie says, will deeply resonate with the Austin community. Not only will it be a facility accommodated to all levels of social and physical ability, it will also never reject any camper for their ability to pay. Fighting the not-so-shocking metric that children are spending 50% less time in nature than they did 20 years ago, YMCA Camp Moody will seek to bring alive the natural wonders in the Austin area and inspire our younger generation to explore the outdoors. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Ellie talks about what it’s like to lead the charge in funding the $18MM project. We discuss the importance of the outdoors, creating an oasis in Austin, and providing an inclusive experience. Ellie also shares her personal connection to the cause.

Ellie Falcao - YMCA Camp Moody

Adam Orman

A Fine Dining Frontrunner In The Fair Wage Fight   In the rich tapestry of the well-known restaurants in New York and San Francisco, Adam Orman discovered his hunger for two things. First, his love of locally-sourced food came from his experience working under Chef Peter Hoffman at “Savoy.” Second, he dove headfirst into the fight for ethical labor and employee rights. With those two passions in mind, Adam made his way to Austin. In 2016 he partnered with Chef Fiore Tedesco to open L’Oca d’Oro. The pair spent their first two years educating their staff of the full vision. “We’ve spent a lot of time with the servers taking them out to our farms so they can see some of the places where we source our food from. It helps them tell our story.” L’Oca d’Oro has become known for much more than their curated menu of Italian cuisine. Adam and Fiore’s ideas on ethical employment and fair wage programs have permeated the four walls of the restaurant. The pair represent L’Oca d’Oro in “GoodWork Austin,” a consortium of local leaders fighting the notion that businesses should give the modern employee as little as possible in return for their work and loyalty. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Adam talks about ethical employee treatment. We discuss the history of the ‘tipped wage,’ the dilemma of small business versus big business, and what L’Oca d’Oro is doing to change the community landscape. Adam also shares the special relationship L’Oca d’Oro has with the locally sourced food they have the privilege of using.

A Fine Dining Frontrunner In The Fair Wage Fight In the rich tapestry of the well-known restaurants in New York and San Francisco, Adam Orman discovered his hunger for two things. First, his love of locally-sourced food came from his experience working under Chef Peter Hoffman at “Savoy.” Second, he dove headfirst into the fight for ethical labor and employee rights. With those two passions in mind, Adam made his way to Austin. In 2016 he partnered with Chef Fiore Tedesco to open L’Oca d’Oro. The pair spent their first two years educating their staff of the full vision. “We’ve spent a lot of time with the servers taking them out to our farms so they can see some of the places where we source our food from. It helps them tell our story.” L’Oca d’Oro has become known for much more than their curated menu of Italian cuisine. Adam and Fiore’s ideas on ethical employment and fair wage programs have permeated the four walls of the restaurant. The pair represent L’Oca d’Oro in “GoodWork Austin,” a consortium of local leaders fighting the notion that businesses should give the modern employee as little as possible in return for their work and loyalty. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Adam talks about ethical employee treatment. We discuss the history of the ‘tipped wage,’ the dilemma of small business versus big business, and what L’Oca d’Oro is doing to change the community landscape. Adam also shares the special relationship L’Oca d’Oro has with the locally sourced food they have the privilege of using.

Adam Orman - L'Oca d'Oro

Carlos Crespo

Proving Digital Marketing Isn’t Just an Industry of Snake Oil Salesmen Carlos Crespo grew up with a fascination for storytelling and the marketing behind a “Hollywood Blockbuster.” His early years took him across the globe to places like Venezuela, England, Spain and Texas. He studied public relations, film, marketing and brand management. Following a brief stint in the gaming industry, Carlos, by his own admission, “stumbled into digital marketing.” After a year and a half as an account manager, Carlos says he’d seen enough of the “murky” nature of the industry. He wanted to be part of the solution, not the problem. In 2011, Crespo teamed up with Andrew Cao to start his own digital agency — Motoza Marketing. “It was a pretty big lunge,” Carlos shared. “We didn’t have any funding. We didn’t have any experience running our own businesses. Neither one of us had ever sold a thing. The first 12–18 months were pretty rough but we kept looking at the baby steps. We knew there were so many businesses out there who could use our services.” Eight years later, as team of eleven, Motoza continues to persist on the back of its commitment to honesty and transparency. More and more businesses these days are struggling to decide where to direct their marketing dollars. Carlos and his team seek to guide misdirected clients onto solid ground. A true win in Motoza’s book is creating a lasting relationship with those who share similar values. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Carlos talks about defying the ‘Snake Oil Salesman’ trope. We discuss keeping a communicative work environment, the merit of creating a process, and learning before doing. Carlos also shares how Motoza was able to sustain so many long term clients in an industry with high client turnover.

Proving Digital Marketing Isn’t Just an Industry of Snake Oil Salesmen Carlos Crespo grew up with a fascination for storytelling and the marketing behind a “Hollywood Blockbuster.” His early years took him across the globe to places like Venezuela, England, Spain and Texas. He studied public relations, film, marketing and brand management. Following a brief stint in the gaming industry, Carlos, by his own admission, “stumbled into digital marketing.” After a year and a half as an account manager, Carlos says he’d seen enough of the “murky” nature of the industry. He wanted to be part of the solution, not the problem. In 2011, Crespo teamed up with Andrew Cao to start his own digital agency — Motoza Marketing. “It was a pretty big lunge,” Carlos shared. “We didn’t have any funding. We didn’t have any experience running our own businesses. Neither one of us had ever sold a thing. The first 12–18 months were pretty rough but we kept looking at the baby steps. We knew there were so many businesses out there who could use our services.” Eight years later, as team of eleven, Motoza continues to persist on the back of its commitment to honesty and transparency. More and more businesses these days are struggling to decide where to direct their marketing dollars. Carlos and his team seek to guide misdirected clients onto solid ground. A true win in Motoza’s book is creating a lasting relationship with those who share similar values. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Carlos talks about defying the ‘Snake Oil Salesman’ trope. We discuss keeping a communicative work environment, the merit of creating a process, and learning before doing. Carlos also shares how Motoza was able to sustain so many long term clients in an industry with high client turnover.

Carlos Crespo - Motoza

Thanh Pham

Meet The Man Behind The #1 Productivity Website In The World Thanh Pham was at a crossroads. Raised in a blue collar environment, young Thanh was taught to play it safe. And yet, the book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” told him a different story. Even as a 14 year old, Thanh realized the path to controlling his destiny lay in starting a business. So at 14, he built a web development agency. By 15, he’d hired his first employee. Soon after, it became clear that his true point of aim was in entrepreneurship. Along that path of discovery, Thanh was often queried by his friends on how he was able to do so much work in so little time. Thanh founded Asian Efficiency to give people the productivity answers they were clamoring for. “Friends were asking me all the time for productivity advice. I said ‘hey, I’m going to start a blog and share what I know.’ They were already successful, had their own businesses and were doing amazing things in the world. I figured if I could help them do more of that, I'd be making a significant impact." That “blog” is now the #1 productivity website in the world and Thanh is one of the top thought leaders in the productivity industry. He’s been featured in the likes of Forbes, Huffington Post, and Inc.com. Thanh is passionate about helping people complete their to-do list by lunch, giving them time to reach their fullest potential. He believes that you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health and your personal life to get things done. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Thanh talks about creating the #1 personal efficiency and productivity platform. We discuss who the “right hires” are, a key morale booster for leading a team, and starting a business as a teenager. Thanh also shares his advice for completing the hardest tasks of the day.

Meet The Man Behind The #1 Productivity Website In The World Thanh Pham was at a crossroads. Raised in a blue collar environment, young Thanh was taught to play it safe. And yet, the book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” told him a different story. Even as a 14 year old, Thanh realized the path to controlling his destiny lay in starting a business. So at 14, he built a web development agency. By 15, he’d hired his first employee. Soon after, it became clear that his true point of aim was in entrepreneurship. Along that path of discovery, Thanh was often queried by his friends on how he was able to do so much work in so little time. Thanh founded Asian Efficiency to give people the productivity answers they were clamoring for. “Friends were asking me all the time for productivity advice. I said ‘hey, I’m going to start a blog and share what I know.’ They were already successful, had their own businesses and were doing amazing things in the world. I figured if I could help them do more of that, I'd be making a significant impact." That “blog” is now the #1 productivity website in the world and Thanh is one of the top thought leaders in the productivity industry. He’s been featured in the likes of Forbes, Huffington Post, and <a href="http://Inc.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Inc.com</a>. Thanh is passionate about helping people complete their to-do list by lunch, giving them time to reach their fullest potential. He believes that you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health and your personal life to get things done. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Thanh talks about creating the #1 personal efficiency and productivity platform. We discuss who the “right hires” are, a key morale booster for leading a team, and starting a business as a teenager. Thanh also shares his advice for completing the hardest tasks of the day.

Thanh Pham - Asian Efficiency

Chelsea Francis

How to Process Success &amp; Failure on an Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster After living in Austin for a year and working various freelance gigs, Chelsea Francis decided it was time to honor what she calls her “multi-passionate” personality - a penchant for connecting people and telling stories that go beyond the digital image. Chelsea Francis Photography and Pass/Fail were created in to mirror Chelsea’s diverse interests and skill sets. Turns out, the two businesses share more similarities than differences. As Chelsea progressed through the trials of success and failure with her photography, Pass/Fail became the outlet to document that journey. Her goal was to “give people and outlet to celebrate when they succeed and process when they fail.” Having those stories guide her own light in business was an added benefit. Chelsea has been a featured guest in the likes of Tribeza, Texas Style Council, and Hello Giggles. As she divulged in her interview, she’s learning to share her bigger wins, like her recent work with major retailer Madewell. Although to Chelsea, the most important things in life aren’t necessarily the magazine spreads or the front cover victories. For her, it’s the “stuff in between” big events, job titles, and relationships that colors the picture of who we are as people. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Chelsea talks about processing wins and losses on the entrepreneurial roller coaster. We discuss how to humanize success, crafting the job you want, and championing the freelance industry. Chelsea also shares how choosing the right location for her career made all the difference.

How to Process Success &amp; Failure on an Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster After living in Austin for a year and working various freelance gigs, Chelsea Francis decided it was time to honor what she calls her “multi-passionate” personality - a penchant for connecting people and telling stories that go beyond the digital image. Chelsea Francis Photography and Pass/Fail were created in to mirror Chelsea’s diverse interests and skill sets. Turns out, the two businesses share more similarities than differences. As Chelsea progressed through the trials of success and failure with her photography, Pass/Fail became the outlet to document that journey. Her goal was to “give people and outlet to celebrate when they succeed and process when they fail.” Having those stories guide her own light in business was an added benefit. Chelsea has been a featured guest in the likes of Tribeza, Texas Style Council, and Hello Giggles. As she divulged in her interview, she’s learning to share her bigger wins, like her recent work with major retailer Madewell. Although to Chelsea, the most important things in life aren’t necessarily the magazine spreads or the front cover victories. For her, it’s the “stuff in between” big events, job titles, and relationships that colors the picture of who we are as people. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Chelsea talks about processing wins and losses on the entrepreneurial roller coaster. We discuss how to humanize success, crafting the job you want, and championing the freelance industry. Chelsea also shares how choosing the right location for her career made all the difference.

Chelsea Francis - Pass/Fail, Chelsea Francis Photography

How Certain Affinity Became The Biggest Independent Video Game Developer in Austin Texas Austin native Mojdeh Gharbi has the kind of “woman-championing-tech” story we need to hear more often. Mojdeh is co-owner of Certain Affinity, the largest independent video game developer in Austin Texas. With contributions to industry-defining games like HALO, Call of Duty and DOOM, Certain Affinity has developed or co-developed more than more than 25 products across 10 different franchises, with more than 100 million units sold. Not bad for what started, twelve years ago, as a “bootstrap startup.” “Most people get into the game industry and say ‘I’m going to make the next big game and it’s going to be amazing.’’ But there’s so much risk involved in making games,” Mojdeh shared. “We intentionally said, we’re not going to go out and raise a bunch of money and hope it works out. We’re going to build the studio from the ground up. We’re going to learn from the best so that when it’s our moment, we’ve set ourselves up for success.” Now a strong workforce of 165 people, Certain Affinity has significantly scaled its operational capability while at the same time remaining profitable and socially conscious. Mojdeh’s leadership has turned heads in the community, as she was recently named a finalist for the Austin Business Journal’s “Profiles in Power,” and recognized in the STEM category of the Women’s Way award in Austin Women’s Magazine. What’s more, Mojdeh firmly believes that “leadership” is about creating a positive ripple effect in the lives of Certain Affinity’s employees and their consumers. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Mojdeh talks about Certain Affinity’s path to becoming the largest independent video game developer in Austin. We discuss the importance of building a reputation, longevity in a rough-and-tumble industry, and the true meaning of legacy. Mojdeh also shares her fresh, insightful approach on the often over-wrought world of marketing.

How Certain Affinity Became The Biggest Independent Video Game Developer in Austin Texas Austin native Mojdeh Gharbi has the kind of “woman-championing-tech” story we need to hear more often. Mojdeh is co-owner of Certain Affinity, the largest independent video game developer in Austin Texas. With contributions to industry-defining games like HALO, Call of Duty and DOOM, Certain Affinity has developed or co-developed more than more than 25 products across 10 different franchises, with more than 100 million units sold. Not bad for what started, twelve years ago, as a “bootstrap startup.” “Most people get into the game industry and say ‘I’m going to make the next big game and it’s going to be amazing.’’ But there’s so much risk involved in making games,” Mojdeh shared. “We intentionally said, we’re not going to go out and raise a bunch of money and hope it works out. We’re going to build the studio from the ground up. We’re going to learn from the best so that when it’s our moment, we’ve set ourselves up for success.” Now a strong workforce of 165 people, Certain Affinity has significantly scaled its operational capability while at the same time remaining profitable and socially conscious. Mojdeh’s leadership has turned heads in the community, as she was recently named a finalist for the Austin Business Journal’s “Profiles in Power,” and recognized in the STEM category of the Women’s Way award in Austin Women’s Magazine. What’s more, Mojdeh firmly believes that “leadership” is about creating a positive ripple effect in the lives of Certain Affinity’s employees and their consumers. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Mojdeh talks about Certain Affinity’s path to becoming the largest independent video game developer in Austin. We discuss the importance of building a reputation, longevity in a rough-and-tumble industry, and the true meaning of legacy. Mojdeh also shares her fresh, insightful approach on the often over-wrought world of marketing.

Mojdeh Gharbi - Certain Affinity

Joshua Levy

How To Network Your Way To A Legacy Business After an eye-opening teenage experience as a teacher’s assistant for students with cognitive disabilities, Joshua Levy knew that he was called to become a voice for that community. Joshua’s Stage was then founded as a unique and innovative nonprofit, offering programs in theater arts, improvisation, dance, photography, and creative expression through story. “When I first thought of Joshua’s Stage, I knew I wanted to have this entity enrich the lives of kids,” Joshua shared. “It first started with special needs kids in mind - and on purpose, a wide range of the arts.” As a youth, Joshua pursued acting, wrote stories and organized plays for neighborhood kids. As a young adult, he taught for 8 years teaching, including time as an assistant principal. Later came the business experience, as project manager for Pearson State Assessments. So, it was only natural when the universe called, with the idea of what would become Joshua’s Stage, Levy was well positioned to answer. With it’s Creative Outlet Method, the organization is enhancing participants’ unique abilities to demonstrate creativity and increase self-confidence. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Joshua talks about how to network your way to a legacy business. We discuss the Creative Outlet Method, the process of scaling a nonprofit, and what the community can do to support our cognitively challenged friends. And Joshua shares how he was able to merge his three personal interests into one cohesive vision.  

How To Network Your Way To A Legacy Business After an eye-opening teenage experience as a teacher’s assistant for students with cognitive disabilities, Joshua Levy knew that he was called to become a voice for that community. Joshua’s Stage was then founded as a unique and innovative nonprofit, offering programs in theater arts, improvisation, dance, photography, and creative expression through story. “When I first thought of Joshua’s Stage, I knew I wanted to have this entity enrich the lives of kids,” Joshua shared. “It first started with special needs kids in mind - and on purpose, a wide range of the arts.” As a youth, Joshua pursued acting, wrote stories and organized plays for neighborhood kids. As a young adult, he taught for 8 years teaching, including time as an assistant principal. Later came the business experience, as project manager for Pearson State Assessments. So, it was only natural when the universe called, with the idea of what would become Joshua’s Stage, Levy was well positioned to answer. With it’s Creative Outlet Method, the organization is enhancing participants’ unique abilities to demonstrate creativity and increase self-confidence. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Joshua talks about how to network your way to a legacy business. We discuss the Creative Outlet Method, the process of scaling a nonprofit, and what the community can do to support our cognitively challenged friends. And Joshua shares how he was able to merge his three personal interests into one cohesive vision.

Joshua Levy - Joshua's Stage

Jill Faulkner

How To Transition From Employee To Entrepreneur Following a series of unfulfilling executive assistant jobs, Jill Faulkner started asking herself questions about what changes she could make. Based on the impact that affirmations had begun to have on her life, Jill came up with the idea of handwriting sticky notes with positive “I” statements. After a small test run, the feedback was positive and the demand was there, so she took the natural next steps of molding it into a business - Stick With It Co. “I was so beside myself in a lot of ways,” Jill recanted, “because [the affirmations] are so simple, but so powerful. I just felt really called to do something with it. I had to see what that would look like.” Even with no business experience or direct mentors of her own, Jill was able to set up Stick With It Co for success. From heartfelt customer letters, to distributing to multiple stores in the Austin area, to holding events with local nonprofits, it is clear that the affirmations are making tangible impact. Stick With It Co continues to grow, if by no other choice than the sheer determination of its founder. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Jill talks about how to transition from employee to entrepreneur. We discuss assessing ourselves, empowerment leading to success, and learning to harness the power of positivity. Jill also shares how she maintains objectivity in a business so personal.

How To Transition From Employee To Entrepreneur Following a series of unfulfilling executive assistant jobs, Jill Faulkner started asking herself questions about what changes she could make. Based on the impact that affirmations had begun to have on her life, Jill came up with the idea of handwriting sticky notes with positive “I” statements. After a small test run, the feedback was positive and the demand was there, so she took the natural next steps of molding it into a business - Stick With It Co. “I was so beside myself in a lot of ways,” Jill recanted, “because [the affirmations] are so simple, but so powerful. I just felt really called to do something with it. I had to see what that would look like.” Even with no business experience or direct mentors of her own, Jill was able to set up Stick With It Co for success. From heartfelt customer letters, to distributing to multiple stores in the Austin area, to holding events with local nonprofits, it is clear that the affirmations are making tangible impact. Stick With It Co continues to grow, if by no other choice than the sheer determination of its founder. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Jill talks about how to transition from employee to entrepreneur. We discuss assessing ourselves, empowerment leading to success, and learning to harness the power of positivity. Jill also shares how she maintains objectivity in a business so personal.

Jill Faulkner - Stick With It Co

Ryan France, Host of the Voices of Impact Podcast, a business owner himself, had an interest in meeting other smart, savvy and local business owners. Entrepreneurs and community leaders. He started to reach out to these people, started having great conversations and quickly realized that others needed to hear their stories too. These were experts in their respective fields. Passionate and intelligent. Dedicated to making impact in the lives of their clients, customers, patients and patrons. So he asked, “Why not create a podcast and interview these people? Why not build a platform meant to turn a spotlight onto these local stories?” With that, the concept for Voices of Impact was born. For more, visit: www.VoicesOfImpact.com

Voices of impact podcast motivates and inspires! A “must listen !”

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Ryan France, Host of the Voices of Impact Podcast, a business owner himself, had an interest in meeting other smart, savvy and local business owners. Entrepreneurs and community leaders. He started to reach out to these people, started having great conversations and quickly realized that others needed to hear their stories too. These were experts in their respective fields. Passionate and intelligent. Dedicated to making impact in the lives of their clients, customers, patients and patrons. So he asked, “Why not create a podcast and interview these people? Why not build a platform meant to turn a spotlight onto these local stories?” With that, the concept for Voices of Impact was born. For more, visit: <a href="http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.VoicesOfImpact.com</a>

Voices of Impact with Ryan France

Taylor O'Neil

How to Identify A Great Product, Step In and Scale Up Taylor O’Neil was searching for the perfect investment at the intersection of business opportunity and social awareness. When Taylor and his business partner met Richard of Richard’s Rainwater, everything began to fall into place. “I heard Richard’s passion for how easy it is to understand from the cloud all the way to the bottle,” O’Neil says. “He was the first person in the United States to get approval for the process of bottling rainwater, but he kept the business small because he wasn’t a marketing guy. He just really believed in helping people through the product.” Having spent nearly a decade in investment banking and mergers and acquisitions, Taylor sensed the product and the business were ripe for scale. He knew the story and the simplicity of Richard’s process would ring true with environmentally conscious, health-driven Austinites. He was absolutely right. In just ten short months, since grabbing the reins of the homegrown company, the brand has undergone a full redesign, significantly ramped up production and is poised for impressive growth. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Taylor talks about the challenges of building an environmentally -friendly business. We discuss the risks associated with living on the edge of market innovation and the power of growing through charitable involvement &amp; strategic partnerships. Taylor also shares some shocking statistics about the lack of clean water and problems it poses. Tune in and find out more…

How to Identify A Great Product, Step In and Scale Up Taylor O’Neil was searching for the perfect investment at the intersection of business opportunity and social awareness. When Taylor and his business partner met Richard of Richard’s Rainwater, everything began to fall into place. “I heard Richard’s passion for how easy it is to understand from the cloud all the way to the bottle,” O’Neil says. “He was the first person in the United States to get approval for the process of bottling rainwater, but he kept the business small because he wasn’t a marketing guy. He just really believed in helping people through the product.” Having spent nearly a decade in investment banking and mergers and acquisitions, Taylor sensed the product and the business were ripe for scale. He knew the story and the simplicity of Richard’s process would ring true with environmentally conscious, health-driven Austinites. He was absolutely right. In just ten short months, since grabbing the reins of the homegrown company, the brand has undergone a full redesign, significantly ramped up production and is poised for impressive growth. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Taylor talks about the challenges of building an environmentally -friendly business. We discuss the risks associated with living on the edge of market innovation and the power of growing through charitable involvement &amp; strategic partnerships. Taylor also shares some shocking statistics about the lack of clean water and problems it poses. Tune in and find out more…

Taylor O'Neil - Richard's Rainwater

Joe Moore

How To Grow From Passion Project to Thriving Business Chelsea Phillips left college with a degree in political science and the thought that she could make the biggest impact through government work. But it didn’t take long for her to realize that she wasn’t particularly passionate about working as a government lobbyist. “I didn’t really enjoy the work that I was doing“, Phillips said. “I decided I needed to focus on and pursue something that I loved instead.” What she loved was kids, animals and teaching. So, true to her word, Phillips left her stable job to venture out into the choppy waters of entrepreneurism. In the teeth of the recession, she boldly followed in her mother‘s footsteps and started Tiny Tails To You – a local hands-on, traveling petting zoo, designed to engage both like young in age and the young at heart. Before long, business was booming, and recognizing she needed help, Chelsea recruited her partner, Joe Moore, away from his teaching job to help scale the business to another level. Together, Phillips are Moore are in their natural habitat working to bring unique animal experiences, natural connection and environmental wisdom to the Austin area. In this episode of voices of impact, Chelsea, Joe, and I discuss the art of building a business on the back of personal passions. We talk about rediscovering a sense of wonder, pet therapy, removing yourself as the bottleneck, and learning how to scale. And Chelsea shares the best resource she’s found to empower the local Austin business community. Hint: it’s free. Listen in to find out.

How To Grow From Passion Project to Thriving Business Chelsea Phillips left college with a degree in political science and the thought that she could make the biggest impact through government work. But it didn’t take long for her to realize that she wasn’t particularly passionate about working as a government lobbyist. “I didn’t really enjoy the work that I was doing“, Phillips said. “I decided I needed to focus on and pursue something that I loved instead.” What she loved was kids, animals and teaching. So, true to her word, Phillips left her stable job to venture out into the choppy waters of entrepreneurism. In the teeth of the recession, she boldly followed in her mother‘s footsteps and started Tiny Tails To You – a local hands-on, traveling petting zoo, designed to engage both like young in age and the young at heart. Before long, business was booming, and recognizing she needed help, Chelsea recruited her partner, Joe Moore, away from his teaching job to help scale the business to another level. Together, Phillips are Moore are in their natural habitat working to bring unique animal experiences, natural connection and environmental wisdom to the Austin area. In this episode of voices of impact, Chelsea, Joe, and I discuss the art of building a business on the back of personal passions. We talk about rediscovering a sense of wonder, pet therapy, removing yourself as the bottleneck, and learning how to scale. And Chelsea shares the best resource she’s found to empower the local Austin business community. Hint: it’s free. Listen in to find out.

Chelsea Phillips &  Joe Moore - Tiny Tails To You

Carly Pollack

A Hunger To Change The Conversation About Health Growing up, Carly Pollack struggled with a buffet of issues: anxiety, autoimmune disorder, a never-ending battle with her weight. As Pollack puts it, “I was the queen of impeccable weekday eating and the impressive weekend binge.” So, it’s only natural then, that she’d go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Holistic Nutrition and be voted ‘Best Nutritionist’ in Austin for four years running. Right? Well, that’s not exactly the most obvious line of logic but Carly believes, “we often teach what we need to learn most.” That mantra bleeds through to every corner of her work. Pollack caries an impressive resume, having lectured all over the country for incredible companies like: Facebook, Whole Foods, Lulu Lemon and the Livestrong Foundation. And yet, she’s equally at home giving a small talk at the Sustainable Food Center or mentoring an aspiring entrepreneur at the Young Women’s Alliance. Her No-BS approach to creating lasting change is both uncommon and refreshing. You are in for a real treat with this interview. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Carly and I discuss the importance of asking high-quality questions. We talk about celebrating ‘small wins,’ as a means to combat ‘next-level syndrome.’ We tackle the subjects of behavior modification, emotional eating and spirituality. And Carly shares why traditional diets have such a high failure rate and what she and her team are doing to coach their clients back to health and happiness.

A Hunger To Change The Conversation About Health Growing up, Carly Pollack struggled with a buffet of issues: anxiety, autoimmune disorder, a never-ending battle with her weight. As Pollack puts it, “I was the queen of impeccable weekday eating and the impressive weekend binge.” So, it’s only natural then, that she’d go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Holistic Nutrition and be voted ‘Best Nutritionist’ in Austin for four years running. Right? Well, that’s not exactly the most obvious line of logic but Carly believes, “we often teach what we need to learn most.” That mantra bleeds through to every corner of her work. Pollack caries an impressive resume, having lectured all over the country for incredible companies like: Facebook, Whole Foods, Lulu Lemon and the Livestrong Foundation. And yet, she’s equally at home giving a small talk at the Sustainable Food Center or mentoring an aspiring entrepreneur at the Young Women’s Alliance. Her No-BS approach to creating lasting change is both uncommon and refreshing. You are in for a real treat with this interview. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Carly and I discuss the importance of asking high-quality questions. We talk about celebrating ‘small wins,’ as a means to combat ‘next-level syndrome.’ We tackle the subjects of behavior modification, emotional eating and spirituality. And Carly shares why traditional diets have such a high failure rate and what she and her team are doing to coach their clients back to health and happiness.

Carly Pollack - Nutritional Wisdom

How To Understand And Achieve Product-Market Fit When Deven Hariyani and his wife discovered their son might be on the spectrum for Autism back in 2013, they were new parents, unsure what to do. Soon after, Deven was clued in, by a friend, on the cognitive and physical benefits of horseback riding for Autistic children. Continuing to speak to more parents, he discovered how many activities and enrichment programs exist to help children in ways he never realized. From this discovery, Kwaddle had its genesis. Deven soon realized something dispiriting. “One of the statistics that stuck with me was that 4 out of 10 kids don’t have an after school activity or summer experience at all, and that just broke my heart,” he said. Kwaddle seeks to change those numbers. With an MBA and a background in technology, Deven knew he needed an online platform to make childhood experiences accessible and inclusive for parents. A mission-driven company, Kwaddle would also seek to donate a sizeable portion of its proceeds back to charitable groups in the Austin-area, working directly to uplift children of the community. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Deven talks about how to understand and achieve product-market fit. We discuss facing market adversity, bridging the gap between tech and a well-rounded business, and learning to solve a problem that’s plagued parents for decades. Deven also shares his exact personal framework to breaking into entrepreneurship. Tune in to find out more...

How To Understand And Achieve Product-Market Fit When Deven Hariyani and his wife discovered their son might be on the spectrum for Autism back in 2013, they were new parents, unsure what to do. Soon after, Deven was clued in, by a friend, on the cognitive and physical benefits of horseback riding for Autistic children. Continuing to speak to more parents, he discovered how many activities and enrichment programs exist to help children in ways he never realized. From this discovery, Kwaddle had its genesis. Deven soon realized something dispiriting. “One of the statistics that stuck with me was that 4 out of 10 kids don’t have an after school activity or summer experience at all, and that just broke my heart,” he said. Kwaddle seeks to change those numbers. With an MBA and a background in technology, Deven knew he needed an online platform to make childhood experiences accessible and inclusive for parents. A mission-driven company, Kwaddle would also seek to donate a sizeable portion of its proceeds back to charitable groups in the Austin-area, working directly to uplift children of the community. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Deven talks about how to understand and achieve product-market fit. We discuss facing market adversity, bridging the gap between tech and a well-rounded business, and learning to solve a problem that’s plagued parents for decades. Deven also shares his exact personal framework to breaking into entrepreneurship. Tune in to find out more...

Deven Hariyani - Kwaddle

Mason Ayer

A Purpose Greater Than A Paycheck Mason Ayer says his first memory at Kerbey Lane Cafe was that of scraping gum off the bottom of tables in his parent’s restaurant. When he was five years old, his reward was a nickel for every crusty piece collected. More than three decades later, the stakes have radically changed. But the one thing that has remained constant is Mason’s commitment to the family business. It’s no secret that the large majority of family businesses decline — if not disappear — as the torch is passed from one generation to the next. Fortunately for Austinites, Kerbey Lane has bucked that trend. With Ayer at the helm, the iconic Cafe will expand to its eighth and ninth locations in the coming year. But that’s not all . . . As you will hear in this interview, the brain trust at Kerbey Lane has been working behind the scenes on a new “fast casual” concept that Mason says he’s extremely excited about — the name of which was announced for the first time, on Voices of Impact. In this episode, we dive into core values, open book management and the importance of surrounding yourself with good people. We talk expansion, fresh food and ‘parachute moments.” And Mason explains why realizing he was illiterate in the fourth grade ended up being the turning point in his life. Grab the audio, links and show notes for Mason’s interview at: http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/Mason-Ayer

A Purpose Greater Than A Paycheck Mason Ayer says his first memory at Kerbey Lane Cafe was that of scraping gum off the bottom of tables in his parent’s restaurant. When he was five years old, his reward was a nickel for every crusty piece collected. More than three decades later, the stakes have radically changed. But the one thing that has remained constant is Mason’s commitment to the family business. It’s no secret that the large majority of family businesses decline — if not disappear — as the torch is passed from one generation to the next. Fortunately for Austinites, Kerbey Lane has bucked that trend. With Ayer at the helm, the iconic Cafe will expand to its eighth and ninth locations in the coming year. But that’s not all . . . As you will hear in this interview, the brain trust at Kerbey Lane has been working behind the scenes on a new “fast casual” concept that Mason says he’s extremely excited about — the name of which was announced for the first time, on Voices of Impact. In this episode, we dive into core values, open book management and the importance of surrounding yourself with good people. We talk expansion, fresh food and ‘parachute moments.” And Mason explains why realizing he was illiterate in the fourth grade ended up being the turning point in his life. Grab the audio, links and show notes for Mason’s interview at: <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/Liza" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/</a>Mason-Ayer

Mason Ayer - Kerbey Lane Cafe

Tim Francis

How To Become The Surgeon In Your Business In a past life, Tim Francis was a touring rockstar and a budding real estate investor. Then, in what seemed like a matter of months, his band unexpectedly broke up and the real estate market plummeted. Already down on his luck, Tim started working 90-hour weeks and developed a rare illness that left him bedridden. It was in that moment Tim decided to get his professional life under control, which began an entrepreneurial evolution leading to the creation of Great Assistant. “I don’t know if a second, a minute, or an hour went by, but time stood still,” Tim recalled. “A voice inside me asked, ‘Tim, is this really what you want?’ And as I felt into that, it dawned on me that I really do want to be an entrepreneur.” Tim’s kinesiology degree from his college years didn’t lose its use either. As a leader of two companies, Profit Factory and Great Assistant, Tim has become expert at prioritizing momentum with the precision of a highly trained athlete. With his team all working remotely, Tim believes that delegation, acknowledging personal triumphs, and regularly scheduled check-in meetings are all instrumental to business success. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Tim talks about how to become the surgeon in your business. We discuss how to value your current time management system, feed the audience you already have and network in an authentic way. Tim also shares his advice for prioritizing momentum - the true difference-maker between a low and high level leader.

How To Become The Surgeon In Your Business In a past life, Tim Francis was a touring rockstar and a budding real estate investor. Then, in what seemed like a matter of months, his band unexpectedly broke up and the real estate market plummeted. Already down on his luck, Tim started working 90-hour weeks and developed a rare illness that left him bedridden. It was in that moment Tim decided to get his professional life under control, which began an entrepreneurial evolution leading to the creation of Great Assistant. “I don’t know if a second, a minute, or an hour went by, but time stood still,” Tim recalled. “A voice inside me asked, ‘Tim, is this really what you want?’ And as I felt into that, it dawned on me that I really do want to be an entrepreneur.” Tim’s kinesiology degree from his college years didn’t lose its use either. As a leader of two companies, Profit Factory and Great Assistant, Tim has become expert at prioritizing momentum with the precision of a highly trained athlete. With his team all working remotely, Tim believes that delegation, acknowledging personal triumphs, and regularly scheduled check-in meetings are all instrumental to business success. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Tim talks about how to become the surgeon in your business. We discuss how to value your current time management system, feed the audience you already have and network in an authentic way. Tim also shares his advice for prioritizing momentum - the true difference-maker between a low and high level leader.

Tim Francis - Great Assistant

Ben Blackburn

How To Turn Pain Into Purpose Through their marriage and the birth of their first child, Emilee and Ben Blackburn had nothing but blessings. But then, an unexpected hardship rocked the core of the Blackburn family — a stillbirth of their second child, Tatum. During the grieving process, Emilee suggested the family find a way to turn that pain into purpose. With a naming suggestion from the Blackburn’s first child, Walker, Tatum’s Love Foundation was founded. “We’re always thinking of things that we can do to give back. That helps with our grief,” the couple says. “We show other families this is what helps us, so they can possibly get through their grief by doing the same thing that we are.” Tapping into Ben’s experience running a family business, the Blackburns have moved Tatum’s Love Foundation from a message of hope to a proven program, raising $80,000 to support the stillbirth loss community. And along that path, Ben and Emilee also created Fathers For Hope and Mothers For Hope. Both groups have fundraising initiatives of their own and provide safe spaces for parents to share their difficult stories. In this episode of Voices of Impact, The Blackburns talk about how they’ve created a proven model for funding support programs. We discuss viewing a nonprofit from a business owner standpoint, the benefits of building a board of directors, and finding a healthy outlet for channeling grief. And Ben shares his belief that "every new life, no matter how fragile or brief, forever changes the world."

How To Turn Pain Into Purpose Through their marriage and the birth of their first child, Emilee and Ben Blackburn had nothing but blessings. But then, an unexpected hardship rocked the core of the Blackburn family — a stillbirth of their second child, Tatum. During the grieving process, Emilee suggested the family find a way to turn that pain into purpose. With a naming suggestion from the Blackburn’s first child, Walker, Tatum’s Love Foundation was founded. “We’re always thinking of things that we can do to give back. That helps with our grief,” the couple says. “We show other families this is what helps us, so they can possibly get through their grief by doing the same thing that we are.” Tapping into Ben’s experience running a family business, the Blackburns have moved Tatum’s Love Foundation from a message of hope to a proven program, raising $80,000 to support the stillbirth loss community. And along that path, Ben and Emilee also created Fathers For Hope and Mothers For Hope. Both groups have fundraising initiatives of their own and provide safe spaces for parents to share their difficult stories. In this episode of Voices of Impact, The Blackburns talk about how they’ve created a proven model for funding support programs. We discuss viewing a nonprofit from a business owner standpoint, the benefits of building a board of directors, and finding a healthy outlet for channeling grief. And Ben shares his belief that "every new life, no matter how fragile or brief, forever changes the world."

Emilee & Ben Blackburn - Tatum's Love Foundation

Mia Johns

How To Build A Network Of Impassioned Volunteers Despite a longstanding, successful background in marketing &amp; community relations, eight years ago, Mia Johns was at a crossroads. She was searching for a sense of fulfillment and a community that spread the “message of hope.” She found her match in Dress For Success Austin. Starting out as part-time volunteer coordinator, Johns later ascended to Program Director — tasked with building community and helping further the mission of a local affiliate that has served over 11,000 women since opening its doors in 2003. “Women come to Dress For Success Austin with a variety of challenges — homelessness, underemployment, divorce, domestic violence or illness — and we do provide clothing and support. But we are much more than that,” Mia says. “We have so many pre and post-workforce development programs. We pride ourselves on meeting each client exactly where she is and helping her along her journey to self-sufficiency.” With just five full-time staff, serving thousands of women each year, Dress For Success relies heavily upon its army of 250+ volunteers — like past podcast guest Nikki Moore — to serve as loyal community ambassadors On this episode of Voices of Impact, Mia and I discuss how to build a network of impassioned volunteers. We talk about confidence, adaptability, overcoming gaps in employment and building a “functional resume.” And Mia sheds some light on the ladder of outreach programs she’s helped set up to empower women in our community to reach their full potential.

How To Build A Network Of Impassioned Volunteers Despite a longstanding, successful background in marketing &amp; community relations, eight years ago, Mia Johns was at a crossroads. She was searching for a sense of fulfillment and a community that spread the “message of hope.” She found her match in Dress For Success Austin. Starting out as part-time volunteer coordinator, Johns later ascended to Program Director — tasked with building community and helping further the mission of a local affiliate that has served over 11,000 women since opening its doors in 2003. “Women come to Dress For Success Austin with a variety of challenges — homelessness, underemployment, divorce, domestic violence or illness — and we do provide clothing and support. But we are much more than that,” Mia says. “We have so many pre and post-workforce development programs. We pride ourselves on meeting each client exactly where she is and helping her along her journey to self-sufficiency.” With just five full-time staff, serving thousands of women each year, Dress For Success relies heavily upon its army of 250+ volunteers — like past podcast guest Nikki Moore — to serve as loyal community ambassadors On this episode of Voices of Impact, Mia and I discuss how to build a network of impassioned volunteers. We talk about confidence, adaptability, overcoming gaps in employment and building a “functional resume.” And Mia sheds some light on the ladder of outreach programs she’s helped set up to empower women in our community to reach their full potential.

Mia Johns - Dress For Success Austin

Kelsey Harrison

How To Put A Value To Your Time and Maximize Contribution Kelsey Harrison knew her days as an office manager had a shelf life. Even with multiple internships and a degree in Public Relations, she found that the Austin job market was oversaturated at best. So, Kelsey took her lifetime of experience with photography and doubled down on creating a business of her own - Oh Happy Day Booth. “I’ve been in the photography industry my entire life. I knew what I could offer and that it would be high quality,” Kelsey shared. “I knew there would be clients out there that would pay top dollar for this service, and there is a high demand for it. It really opened my eyes to the viability of creating this business.” Harrison’s PR degree never lost its use though. In fact, by embracing the concept of “skill stacking,” she’s used that knowledge to enhance her perspective on the direction of Oh Happy Day Booth. “I knew from the beginning that branding was going to play a big role in finding my ideal client,” she said. “I knew I wanted to market our services as a luxury product.” In this episode of Voices of Impact, Kelsey talks about how she’s learned to value her time as a business owner as a means to maximize her contribution. We discuss photography as her lifelong passion, overcoming the challenge of a neurological disorder, and her mantra of “leaning in” to creating a personal network. Kelsey also shares how to re-approach volunteering business services to make sure everyone gets paid double. Listen in to find out more...

How To Put A Value To Your Time and Maximize Contribution Kelsey Harrison knew her days as an office manager had a shelf life. Even with multiple internships and a degree in Public Relations, she found that the Austin job market was oversaturated at best. So, Kelsey took her lifetime of experience with photography and doubled down on creating a business of her own - Oh Happy Day Booth. “I’ve been in the photography industry my entire life. I knew what I could offer and that it would be high quality,” Kelsey shared. “I knew there would be clients out there that would pay top dollar for this service, and there is a high demand for it. It really opened my eyes to the viability of creating this business.” Harrison’s PR degree never lost its use though. In fact, by embracing the concept of “skill stacking,” she’s used that knowledge to enhance her perspective on the direction of Oh Happy Day Booth. “I knew from the beginning that branding was going to play a big role in finding my ideal client,” she said. “I knew I wanted to market our services as a luxury product.” In this episode of Voices of Impact, Kelsey talks about how she’s learned to value her time as a business owner as a means to maximize her contribution. We discuss photography as her lifelong passion, overcoming the challenge of a neurological disorder, and her mantra of “leaning in” to creating a personal network. Kelsey also shares how to re-approach volunteering business services to make sure everyone gets paid double. Listen in to find out more...

Kelsey Harrison - Oh Happy Day Booth

The Four Pillars Of A Sharing Economy Liza Wilson claims that she was the last person on earth to envision running her own business. “I was stubbornly against it,” she told us. “I thought it would be boring and my brain just didn’t work that way.” Luckily for the Austin community, local teachers and stay-at-home moms, Wilson changed her mind. Radically and instantly. In fact, she went from “not wanting to run a business” to running out to purchase $3000 worth of toys, to stock what eventually became Toybrary Austin. To understand Wilson’s about-face, you first have to appreciate two things. First, Liza boasts an impressive resume in early childhood education — spending 20 years in public schools, Montessori and the French education system. Second, she grew up in a home environment where her parents and grandparents modeled a certain fearlessness. They coached her to believe in possibility and not to be intimidated by big ideas. She could figure out anything, if she stuck with it long enough. Fortunately, Liza heeded that advice. With Toybrary, Wilson has identified a solution to the issue that has plagued parents for generations — what the heck do I do with all of this stuff my kids no longer play with? In this episode of Voices of Impact, we discuss the four pillars of “The Sharing Economy.” We dive into Wilson’s desire to use the Toybrary model to give back to her fellow “educators.” And Liza shares why she is so impassioned about running a ‘zero waste’ business.  Grab the audio, links and show notes for Liza’s interview at: http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/Liza-Wilson

The Four Pillars Of A Sharing Economy Liza Wilson claims that she was the last person on earth to envision running her own business. “I was stubbornly against it,” she told us. “I thought it would be boring and my brain just didn’t work that way.” Luckily for the Austin community, local teachers and stay-at-home moms, Wilson changed her mind. Radically and instantly. In fact, she went from “not wanting to run a business” to running out to purchase $3000 worth of toys, to stock what eventually became Toybrary Austin. To understand Wilson’s about-face, you first have to appreciate two things. First, Liza boasts an impressive resume in early childhood education — spending 20 years in public schools, Montessori and the French education system. Second, she grew up in a home environment where her parents and grandparents modeled a certain fearlessness. They coached her to believe in possibility and not to be intimidated by big ideas. She could figure out anything, if she stuck with it long enough. Fortunately, Liza heeded that advice. With Toybrary, Wilson has identified a solution to the issue that has plagued parents for generations — what the heck do I do with all of this stuff my kids no longer play with? In this episode of Voices of Impact, we discuss the four pillars of “The Sharing Economy.” We dive into Wilson’s desire to use the Toybrary model to give back to her fellow “educators.” And Liza shares why she is so impassioned about running a ‘zero waste’ business. Grab the audio, links and show notes for Liza’s interview at: <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/Liza-Wilson" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/Liza-Wilson</a>

Liza Wilson - Toybrary

How To Cater To An Underserved Market With the help of a Kickstarter campaign, a personal investment, and the tutelage of esteemed Ice Cream University founder, Malcolm Stogo, Valerie Ward and her co-founder started Sweet Ritual. At the time it was the only vegan ice cream shop in Austin. Seven years later, Sweet Ritual remains out in front of Austin’s dairy-free movement, having outgrown its storefront twice, and with the largest shop yet set to open in December. “Everyone deserves ice cream and we’ve had grown men cry when they get their first banana split that they hadn’t been able to have in 20 years. That’s why we call it Sweet Ritual. Ice cream becomes a way to mark memories,” Valerie said. With history in the local ice cream scene, Valerie has no shortage of operational experience. Her business partner, Amelia Raley, brought her own personal recipes along with her to Sweet Ritual. Together, they work in harmonic tandem, both having found their business specialties as time has passed. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Valerie talks about tapping into an underserved market. We discuss nostalgic products, sharing responsibilities with a co-founder, and finding a harmony between work and vision. Valerie also shares how Sweet Ritual was able to grow out of two locations in under seven years.

How To Cater To An Underserved Market With the help of a Kickstarter campaign, a personal investment, and the tutelage of esteemed Ice Cream University founder, Malcolm Stogo, Valerie Ward and her co-founder started Sweet Ritual. At the time it was the only vegan ice cream shop in Austin. Seven years later, Sweet Ritual remains out in front of Austin’s dairy-free movement, having outgrown its storefront twice, and with the largest shop yet set to open in December. “Everyone deserves ice cream and we’ve had grown men cry when they get their first banana split that they hadn’t been able to have in 20 years. That’s why we call it Sweet Ritual. Ice cream becomes a way to mark memories,” Valerie said. With history in the local ice cream scene, Valerie has no shortage of operational experience. Her business partner, Amelia Raley, brought her own personal recipes along with her to Sweet Ritual. Together, they work in harmonic tandem, both having found their business specialties as time has passed. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Valerie talks about tapping into an underserved market. We discuss nostalgic products, sharing responsibilities with a co-founder, and finding a harmony between work and vision. Valerie also shares how Sweet Ritual was able to grow out of two locations in under seven years.

Valerie Ward - Sweet Ritual

Chad Wright

Rebranding The Importance Of Authentic Storytelling Chad Wright says he believes so deeply in the impact of his team’s work, that he has no qualms about passing away in the middle of a “client pitch” someday. Sounds extreme, I know. Then again, you’d expect nothing less from a guy who stumbled upon his “life’s work” as a teenager. Wright literally grew up in the design business — working for a local newspaper at the age of fourteen and managing one by twenty. “Looking back on it, I don’t know what in the world they were thinking, giving me that kind of responsibility so young,” he confessed. “But you know, I think they saw that I was capable of building something and leading a team.” Decades later, it’s that same type of leadership that local churches, businesses and non-profits look for Wright and his team to provide — in an effort to help them tell their story. Storytelling, as we discuss in this interview, is a specialized skill that is too often overlooked in the “traditional approach” to personal and professional marketing. In this episode, we dive into leadership, team building and making impact. We talk emotional connection, work-life-balance and the beauty of making mistakes. And Chad explains why, in his eyes, patience is the most underrated skill that anyone can acquire in their lifetime.

Rebranding The Importance Of Authentic Storytelling Chad Wright says he believes so deeply in the impact of his team’s work, that he has no qualms about passing away in the middle of a “client pitch” someday. Sounds extreme, I know. Then again, you’d expect nothing less from a guy who stumbled upon his “life’s work” as a teenager. Wright literally grew up in the design business — working for a local newspaper at the age of fourteen and managing one by twenty. “Looking back on it, I don’t know what in the world they were thinking, giving me that kind of responsibility so young,” he confessed. “But you know, I think they saw that I was capable of building something and leading a team.” Decades later, it’s that same type of leadership that local churches, businesses and non-profits look for Wright and his team to provide — in an effort to help them tell their story. Storytelling, as we discuss in this interview, is a specialized skill that is too often overlooked in the “traditional approach” to personal and professional marketing. In this episode, we dive into leadership, team building and making impact. We talk emotional connection, work-life-balance and the beauty of making mistakes. And Chad explains why, in his eyes, patience is the most underrated skill that anyone can acquire in their lifetime.

Chad Wright - Wright Creative Group

Robin Emmerich

How To Live A Life Beyond The To-Do List A little more than a decade ago, Robin Emmerich’s foundation was shaken. Seemingly all at once, a car accident, an apartment break-in and some powerful, yet unexpected, advice led Emmerich down a path of personal re-discovery. “I started asking myself questions like what am I doing, why am I here and what is my purpose in life,” Robin shared. “I started digging deeper because I knew there was something missing but I just didn’t know what.” She eventually found the answers she was looking for in the form of “two mentors,” one for the heart and one for the mind. With a renewed sense of peace and internal direction, Emmerich started her own life coaching business. For the past eight years, she’s been teaching her clients how to tap into intuition, rewrite the script and live with a strong sense of mission. Along the way, Robin discovered her own inner-artist, which led to the creation of her athleisure line, Beauty And The Mess. It’s a phrase that Emmerich says has multiple meanings, not the least of which is a reminder to live with courage and explore the positivity in life.   In this episode of Voices of Impact, Robin and I discuss the freedom of living a beyond the to-do list. We talk about momentum, mindfulness, legacy, and the struggle of balancing a commitment to both work and personal relationships. And Robin shares the story behind her partnership in an initiative to empower a billion women by the year 2020.

How To Live A Life Beyond The To-Do List A little more than a decade ago, Robin Emmerich’s foundation was shaken. Seemingly all at once, a car accident, an apartment break-in and some powerful, yet unexpected, advice led Emmerich down a path of personal re-discovery. “I started asking myself questions like what am I doing, why am I here and what is my purpose in life,” Robin shared. “I started digging deeper because I knew there was something missing but I just didn’t know what.” She eventually found the answers she was looking for in the form of “two mentors,” one for the heart and one for the mind. With a renewed sense of peace and internal direction, Emmerich started her own life coaching business. For the past eight years, she’s been teaching her clients how to tap into intuition, rewrite the script and live with a strong sense of mission. Along the way, Robin discovered her own inner-artist, which led to the creation of her athleisure line, Beauty And The Mess. It’s a phrase that Emmerich says has multiple meanings, not the least of which is a reminder to live with courage and explore the positivity in life.   In this episode of Voices of Impact, Robin and I discuss the freedom of living a beyond the to-do list. We talk about momentum, mindfulness, legacy, and the struggle of balancing a commitment to both work and personal relationships. And Robin shares the story behind her partnership in an initiative to empower a billion women by the year 2020.

Robin Emmerich - Beauty And The Mess

Nikki Moore

Helping Recommission The Lost Art Of Appreciation Nikki Moore’s business was born out of necessity. Literally, days after giving birth to her first child, she scoured the internet in search of a “done-for-you” personalized client gift. What she found, frustrated her. “It was all perishable items or things I had to order like 30 days in advance, just to be personalized,” Moore explained. Not having that kind of time, Nikki did what she’s done her entire life. She got resourceful. An appreciation gift, skillfully assembled at the last minute was the “hey wait a minute” moment that sparked Happily Ever Baskets. It’s a business that has afforded her the opportunity to stay home with her son, Nixon, all the while making the outward contribution she desperately desired. It’s a business Moore has bootstrapped as a card-carrying member of the “mompreneur” movement and one that has become the local solution to providing appreciation gifts that recipients actually rave about. In this episode, we discuss traditional gift-giving blunders. We talk about the lost art of appreciation and the importance of running toward what lights you up. And Nikki shares why she’s so passionate about her volunteer efforts with Dress For Success — a local organization that gives women of all backgrounds the tools they need to “get back in the game.” Grab the audio, links and show notes for Nikki’s interview at: http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/Nikki-Moore

Helping Recommission The Lost Art Of Appreciation Nikki Moore’s business was born out of necessity. Literally, days after giving birth to her first child, she scoured the internet in search of a “done-for-you” personalized client gift. What she found, frustrated her. “It was all perishable items or things I had to order like 30 days in advance, just to be personalized,” Moore explained. Not having that kind of time, Nikki did what she’s done her entire life. She got resourceful. An appreciation gift, skillfully assembled at the last minute was the “hey wait a minute” moment that sparked Happily Ever Baskets. It’s a business that has afforded her the opportunity to stay home with her son, Nixon, all the while making the outward contribution she desperately desired. It’s a business Moore has bootstrapped as a card-carrying member of the “mompreneur” movement and one that has become the local solution to providing appreciation gifts that recipients actually rave about. In this episode, we discuss traditional gift-giving blunders. We talk about the lost art of appreciation and the importance of running toward what lights you up. And Nikki shares why she’s so passionate about her volunteer efforts with Dress For Success — a local organization that gives women of all backgrounds the tools they need to “get back in the game.” Grab the audio, links and show notes for Nikki’s interview at: <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/Chad-Wright" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.VoicesOfImpact.com/N</a>ikki-Moore

Nikki Moore - Happily Ever Baskets

How To Craft A More Powerful Identity Through Story “Surely I wasn’t put on this earth to be just a real estate agent, right?” That was the nagging question and the uncomfortable conclusion I came to about three years ago. I was sitting on the couch in our upstairs game room — second week in March 2015. My wife, Kristin, was by my side and my kids were playing on the floor beneath my feet. “What’s wrong?” she asked All I could muster was, “I can’t do THIS anymore. It’s just not me.” I think you’ll agree with me that it’s terribly uninspiring to pour so much time and emotional energy into becoming a better version of something, deep down, you know you were never meant to be. You see, nearly ten years after finally losing my dream — my purpose — of playing professional baseball, I’d yet to find something to fill the emptiness of a vacated “dream-hole.” That “couch conversation” touched off a series of events that led me to the conclusion that I needed to “change my story.” Both the one I was telling myself and others. It was time to officially re-engineer my identity. I decided, then and there, that I would become a storyteller, first. Because like Seth Godin says, “the only monopoly you have in life is your own story.” What I came to realize was that I didn’t necessarily lack purpose. In fact, even from a young age I’d felt somehow called to spread a positive message and encourage others to pursue a better version of themselves. To mentor others along a path to personal success and fulfillment. No, it wasn’t purpose I lacked. What I lacked (and continually work to improve) were the skills needed to live that purpose into existence. I didn’t need a new destination, just a new set of directions. A more finely tuned compass. From that point forward, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering the art and architect of story. Because as a storyteller first, I know that I wield the power to pen an entirely different definition of success — one that echoes from an authentic voice. In this “solo” episode of Voices of Impact, the first since Episode 1, I share the first steps of my journey to an uncommon destination. I talk about the process of shedding my “real estate skin” and crafting a more empowering persona. And I challenge you to consider how different your business, your relationships, your job and your outlook on life might look if you too embraced the power of effective storytelling.

How To Craft A More Powerful Identity Through Story “Surely I wasn’t put on this earth to be just a real estate agent, right?” That was the nagging question and the uncomfortable conclusion I came to about three years ago. I was sitting on the couch in our upstairs game room — second week in March 2015. My wife, Kristin, was by my side and my kids were playing on the floor beneath my feet. “What’s wrong?” she asked All I could muster was, “I can’t do THIS anymore. It’s just not me.” I think you’ll agree with me that it’s terribly uninspiring to pour so much time and emotional energy into becoming a better version of something, deep down, you know you were never meant to be. You see, nearly ten years after finally losing my dream — my purpose — of playing professional baseball, I’d yet to find something to fill the emptiness of a vacated “dream-hole.” That “couch conversation” touched off a series of events that led me to the conclusion that I needed to “change my story.” Both the one I was telling myself and others. It was time to officially re-engineer my identity. I decided, then and there, that I would become a storyteller, first. Because like Seth Godin says, “the only monopoly you have in life is your own story.” What I came to realize was that I didn’t necessarily lack purpose. In fact, even from a young age I’d felt <a href="http://www.ryanfrance.com/following-the-path-of-why/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">somehow called</a> to spread a positive message and encourage others to pursue a better version of themselves. To mentor others along a path to personal success and fulfillment. No, it wasn’t purpose I lacked. What I lacked (and continually work to improve) were the skills needed to live that purpose into existence. I didn’t need a new destination, just a new set of directions. A more finely tuned compass. From that point forward, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering the art and architect of story. Because as a storyteller first, I know that I wield the power to pen an entirely different definition of success — one that echoes from an authentic voice. In this “solo” episode of Voices of Impact, the first since <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/introduction/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 1</a>, I share the first steps of my journey to an uncommon destination. I talk about the process of shedding my “real estate skin” and crafting a more empowering persona. And I challenge you to consider how different your business, your relationships, your job and your outlook on life might look if you too embraced the power of effective storytelling.

How To Craft A More Powerful Identity Through Story

Unlocking The Secret Behind Professional Breakthroughs “I know that I work hard. I know that I work long hours. And often, my family has to sacrifice for me to be able to craft the message that I craft, and distribute that message to the world. And I know that you work just as hard. So, if we are going to ask our families to sacrifice on our behalf, we better have a damn good reason for doing so.” These were the words of Ryan Fletcher, in a letter to our host, Ryan France. See, both business owners have something in common. They are building a movement. A movement built on the back of a community of trusted advice-givers. Friends and mentors compiling to create an open-source group that knocks down the walls of the problems it faces. Further, their personal sacrifices are aimed at the greater good - be a ‘giver’ or a ‘conscious capitalist’ in large numbers, and the rising tide will lift all boats. In this “solo” episode of Voices of Impact, Ryan shares his key breakaway from the ‘lone wolf’ mentality. He talks about forging fundamental connections beyond business, and synthesizes the three different orientations of influence. And we challenge you to consider what changes you can make in your current practices to bridge the gap between being a ‘business’ and a ‘movement.’

Unlocking The Secret Behind Professional Breakthroughs “I know that I work hard. I know that I work long hours. And often, my family has to sacrifice for me to be able to craft the message that I craft, and distribute that message to the world. And I know that you work just as hard. So, if we are going to ask our families to sacrifice on our behalf, we better have a damn good reason for doing so.” These were the words of Ryan Fletcher, in a letter to our host, Ryan France. See, both business owners have something in common. They are building a movement. A movement built on the back of a community of trusted advice-givers. Friends and mentors compiling to create an open-source group that knocks down the walls of the problems it faces. Further, their personal sacrifices are aimed at the greater good - be a ‘giver’ or a ‘conscious capitalist’ in large numbers, and the rising tide will lift all boats. In this “solo” episode of Voices of Impact, Ryan shares his key breakaway from the ‘lone wolf’ mentality. He talks about forging fundamental connections beyond business, and synthesizes the three different orientations of influence. And we challenge you to consider what changes you can make in your current practices to bridge the gap between being a ‘business’ and a ‘movement.’

Unlocking The Secret Behind Professional Breakthroughs 

Amanda May

How To Bootstrap Your Way To A Health-Conscious Business At 26 years old, Amanda May didn’t have the responsibility of a mortgage or children. Nor did she have the appetite for an extravagant lifestyle. Rather than traveling or ‘going out’ on the weekends, Amanda harnessed her extra time and invested it into the development of The Purple Fig Eco Cleaning Company. “For a portion of the startup process, I lived in my aunt’s garage in Clarksville. In an actual garage, not a garage apartment. That’s where I made all of the cleaning supplies. I washed my cleaning cloths in her washer and dryer inside.” Fresh out of the cubicle in her accounting firm, Amanda didn’t mind the stark transition from mental to physical work. In fact, she knew that she couldn’t sit still forever. Now, well beyond her initial struggles, Amanda’s business has enjoyed steady growth for the past 11 years. What’s more, Amanda has become a leading voice for better employee treatment here in Austin. She offers her hand-picked employees a 401k, sick pay, and vacation time — knowing full well that their health serves the overall wealth and prosperity of The Purple Fig. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Amanda talks about how to she’s learned to embrace short-term discomfort for sustainable business growth. We discuss the role that adaptability and humor play in creating authentic connections. Amanda also shares how clearly defining her business’s ideal customer helped alleviate “team stress” and provide the leverage needed to level up.

How To Bootstrap Your Way To A Health-Conscious Business At 26 years old, Amanda May didn’t have the responsibility of a mortgage or children. Nor did she have the appetite for an extravagant lifestyle. Rather than traveling or ‘going out’ on the weekends, Amanda harnessed her extra time and invested it into the development of The Purple Fig Eco Cleaning Company. “For a portion of the startup process, I lived in my aunt’s garage in Clarksville. In an actual garage, not a garage apartment. That’s where I made all of the cleaning supplies. I washed my cleaning cloths in her washer and dryer inside.” Fresh out of the cubicle in her accounting firm, Amanda didn’t mind the stark transition from mental to physical work. In fact, she knew that she couldn’t sit still forever. Now, well beyond her initial struggles, Amanda’s business has enjoyed steady growth for the past 11 years. What’s more, Amanda has become a leading voice for better employee treatment here in Austin. She offers her hand-picked employees a 401k, sick pay, and vacation time — knowing full well that their health serves the overall wealth and prosperity of The Purple Fig. In this episode of Voices of Impact, Amanda talks about how to she’s learned to embrace short-term discomfort for sustainable business growth. We discuss the role that adaptability and humor play in creating authentic connections. Amanda also shares how clearly defining her business’s ideal customer helped alleviate “team stress” and provide the leverage needed to level up.

Amanda May - Purple Fig Eco Cleaning Company

How to Open Eyes To The Needs Of A Community At the age of twelve, David C. Smith says he already knew that his life would be dedicated to the cause of creating a world where “equality is the norm.” He remembers being impacted by the number of homeless he saw on the streets, during his first visit to New York City. With young eyes opened, it was clear David’s path forward would become ruled by a strong sense of social justice. “Once your eyes are opened to that,” Smith told us, “you start to see it everywhere and that’s where it just becomes part of the fabric of your life.” Speaking of fabric, Smith’s resume is a colorful tapestry, woven over twenty years of nonprofit and business leadership. He founded both the Hill Country Ride for Aids and the Mamma Jamma Ride for Breast cancer — two of the most successful fundraisers of their kind. He started his own consulting agency, with stints as interim CEO of a handful of local businesses like Conspirare and The Thinkery. Then two years ago, he came on board as CEO of United Way for Greater Austin, which ironically enough is a job he did his best to talk himself out of. You’ll have to listen to find out why. In this episode of Voices of Impact, David and I discuss some startling statistics about income disparity in Austin. We talk about the programs, challenges, successes and opportunities  behind re-energizing an almost century old organization. And David shares why time and again he finds the joy of giving one’s time and resources far exceeds the rewards of supporting the cause itself. To access the full audio, links and resources for David’s interview, visit: http://www.voicesofimpact.com/david-smith

How to Open Eyes To The Needs Of A Community At the age of twelve, David C. Smith says he already knew that his life would be dedicated to the cause of creating a world where “equality is the norm.” He remembers being impacted by the number of homeless he saw on the streets, during his first visit to New York City. With young eyes opened, it was clear David’s path forward would become ruled by a strong sense of social justice. “Once your eyes are opened to that,” Smith told us, “you start to see it everywhere and that’s where it just becomes part of the fabric of your life.” Speaking of fabric, Smith’s resume is a colorful tapestry, woven over twenty years of nonprofit and business leadership. He founded both the Hill Country Ride for Aids and the Mamma Jamma Ride for Breast cancer — two of the most successful fundraisers of their kind. He started his own consulting agency, with stints as interim CEO of a handful of local businesses like Conspirare and The Thinkery. Then two years ago, he came on board as CEO of United Way for Greater Austin, which ironically enough is a job he did his best to talk himself out of. You’ll have to listen to find out why. In this episode of Voices of Impact, David and I discuss some startling statistics about income disparity in Austin. We talk about the programs, challenges, successes and opportunities  behind re-energizing an almost century old organization. And David shares why time and again he finds the joy of giving one’s time and resources far exceeds the rewards of supporting the cause itself. To access the full audio, links and resources for David’s interview, visit: <a href="http://www.voicesofimpact.com/david-smith" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.voicesofimpact.com/david-smith</a>

David C. Smith - United Way Of Greater Austin

The best episodes for anyone looking to learn more about topics such as happiness, fulfillment, depression and psychology/mental health in general. With interviews with industry experts, personal stories of individuals, this topic has lessons applicable to everyone. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Episodes on Mental Health, Emotions & Thoughts

The best self improvement podcast episodes. From improving productivity, to finding purpose in your life to what constitutes freedom, this topic is on anything and everything that can help people to improve their lives. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!