Find Your Voice, Change Your Life Podcast

Today, I interview Carl Ficks who grew up in a household where writing took precedence over speaking. His father held various positions where writing was a key role, and Carl learned to develop the habit of writing well and listening well. His parents communicated calmly and clearly without the need for shouting or excessive emphasis, and Carl learned to follow this model and attitude.

Today, I interview Cedric Crumbley who grew up in Georgia. When he was an infant, his father passed away. So unfortunately, he didn’t get to know his Dad. However, his father’s siblings saw so much of his father in Cedric that they truly treasured him. He was certainly given a lot of attention and had great connection with the adults in his family. He was even teased a little in school because he had such an adult-like way of speaking.

Today, I interview Michael Rost, whose young life included the emphasis on “comparative suffering.” He tells us that to his father complaining was unwelcomed and was overshadowed by the reminder that others had it far worse. So his young mind learned not to open up to others. Well, when you don’t speak much, you’re able to become quite the listener.

Today, I interview Donna Tashjian who suffered loss and abuse at an early age. She was forced to grow up fast and put aside what happened, focusing on adulthood without a true sense of her own identity. She hadn’t been able to deal with her trauma, so her confidence was deeply hurt and she was very afraid of using her voice and making true connections with people.

Today, I interview Dr. Pelè who grew up during civil wartime in Nigeria. He and his family were refugees, fearing for their safety with every step, never sure of their next meal. In order to comfort her children, his mother would sing and tell stories. Dr. Pelè says this diversion created a change in his mindset as a child.

Today, I interview Dr. Denny Coates, who was a very driven child, always striving to be a high achiever and to be the best among his peers. Much later in life he became a compelling speaker, and this was only after he faced a reality that he did not know how to engage his listeners.

Today, I interview Lori Saitz, who says she was a timid child in public situations, hesitant to speak up in school. On the other hand, when she was at home, she was bold and outspoken.

Today, I interview Chris Weals who grew up with two older brothers who did very well academically. Chris, however, wasn’t as interested in studying; instead, he excelled at making friends and even took on a sort of leadership role in some groups. Things began to catch up to him when he felt left out and pressured because he didn’t show as much drive for academia as other people.

Today, I interview Billy Atwell, a friend and colleague for many years. He has his own podcast, Unshakable Self-Confidence, and during its first season, he interviewed me. Billy is special to me because he’s had a front-row seat in seeing me develop past my own fear and into the confidence that I get to share with you today!

Today, I interview E.A. Csolkovits who when he was very young, helped his father with deliveries as a milkman. As they made their rounds, he would observe all different types and classes of people, and he was drawn to those who appeared to be happy and successful, “living the dream”. Even as a very young child, E.A. felt a deep, instinctive pull to figure out how these people lived lives of such happiness and abundance.