Stuck In My Mind Podcast

EP 277 Clarity, Connections, and Entrepreneurship: Angela Lewis on Purpose-Driven Business Growth

On this episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe welcomes the multi-faceted strategist and entrepreneur Angela Lewis for a conversation overflowing with clarity, connection, and unexpected golden nuggets. What starts as a humorous mix-up – with Wize thinking Angela was a PR pro due to her knack for making connections – quickly unfolds into a powerful exploration of what it really takes to build, scale, and revitalize a business or brand from the inside out.
Angela shares the real story behind her journey as the founder of Savvy Designs and The Pink Elephant Solution, underscoring her relentless drive to help businesses, creatives, and entrepreneurs not just survive but truly thrive. She unpacks how her background in art, consulting, and design evolved into strategic brand-building and developing accessible platforms to help businesses at every financial level lay solid foundations. Listeners get a window into Angela’s education at Harvard, her ongoing commitment to self-learning, and her mission to pass on deep-rooted business principles so that others can grow resilient organizations.
Together, Angela and Wize discuss the common traps leaders fall into—like launching businesses without foundational skills or tactical structure, and failing to see the difference between an LLC and true liability protection. Angela’s advice is sharp: invest early in strategic accounting and legal support, and always focus on learning before leaping.
But the conversation moves way beyond business nuts and bolts. Angela talks about the art of connecting people, the difference between transactional exchanges and lasting relationships, and how one’s personal journey and emotional health feed directly into entrepreneurial success. Wize opens up about his own life: losing loved ones, overcoming personal struggles, rediscovering his purpose through podcasting, and the true power of supporting others and being supportive in return.
Whether it’s how to build an “elevator pitch,” navigate a rapidly changing business climate, make crucial pivots, or the importance of celebrating personal milestones and self-betterment, Angela delivers invaluable insights with warmth and contagious energy.
If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or creative who feels “stuck in your mind,” this episode is a masterclass in finding clarity, embracing connection, and choosing purpose-driven momentum over busywork. Tune in for a conversation that doesn’t just drop gems—it hands you the blueprint for building your own business legacy and living boldly, one intentional action at a time.
Don’t miss this episode if you want tactical business wisdom, real talk about life’s rollercoasters, and inspiration to get out of your own way. Connect with Angela Lewis—aka The Real Angela Lewis—at Savvy Designs, The Pink Elephant Solution, or on social platforms, and keep following Stuck in My Mind for more mind-shifting conversations.

EP 276 From Food Stamps to Global Stages: Marianne Hickman’s Journey to Speaking Success

In this powerful and uplifting episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe welcomes international speaker, entrepreneur, and speaking coach Marianne Hickman. Known for her remarkable journey from food stamps in Utah to igniting stages in 17 countries, Marianne shares her authentic story of resilience, transformation, and the transformative magic of sharing your message with the world.
A Journey Fueled by Hardship and Hope
Marianne pulls listeners in with her unfiltered account of what life was like before her first intentional speaking opportunity. Growing up as the youngest of ten in a family of high achievers, Marianne describes the emotional and financial challenges that nearly broke her spirit—marriage and motherhood at an early age, raising five kids, concerning debt, and the humbling experience of relying on food stamps and government support. She humorously and candidly recounts driving the family’s old Mazda minivan through Provo, Utah, wrestling with frustration at “doing everything right” but still struggling financially.
On that pivotal drive, she describes a personal, almost confrontational conversation with God: she demanded either a box of money on her porch or proximity to someone who could teach her “the money game.” Fate complied—not with cash, but with access to mentors and examples who showed her how to turn her personal story, pain, inspiration, and lessons into sustainable, purpose-driven speaking.
Discovering the Power of Storytelling
Marianne’s turning points didn’t come in the fashion of overnight success. She opens up about her early speaking opportunities, from her church putting her on stage as a child (admitting churches “knock the stage fright right out of you”), to attending seminars as a “seminar junkie” and stumbling accidentally into her first significant co-facilitator role. She shares a vivid anecdote about a seminar where she witnessed a speaker sell out $300 worth of resources to 700 people in a single session—redefining for her the possibilities of influence from the stage.
But more than money or surface-level success, Marianne found her purpose in influence that creates real change. She connects the dots between mastering communication, having a message rooted in authentic experience, and the responsibility to use that message to help others transform their lives.
Overcoming Fear & Transforming Mindset
A key theme throughout the episode is the fear and self-doubt that come with stepping onto a stage—physical or virtual. Marianne boldly confesses to battling “me-centered” anxieties: Am I good enough? Will I forget my content? Does my outfit look okay? But she reveals a paradigm-shifting piece of wisdom: “Stage fright is inherently selfish.” By focusing less on herself and more on serving her audience, giving value, and tuning in to their needs, her nerves are transformed into purpose.
She dives deep into the importance of mindset, using humorous and relatable family anecdotes (like being head-butted by a sheep at a photo shoot) to illustrate how what’s inside you gets squeezed out under pressure—onstage or off. For Marianne, developing a resilient mindset and sharing stories from a “healed scar, not an open wound,” are essential for authentic, impactful speaking.
Lessons from Failure & the Power of Humor
Marianne isn’t shy about her early speaking “cringe moments,” sharing how watching her old keynotes taught her humility and the value of self-compassion. She stresses the importance of ongoing learning and giving oneself permission to be funny and human—citing icons like Robin Williams as examples of using humor to make difficult topics accessible and healing.
Building a Signature Message—and an Income
With practical steps and hard-won wisdom, Marianne walks listeners through the essentials of building a signature presentation. She describes her 10-step keynote blueprint—an adaptable framework that brings stories, lessons, and audience participation together in a way that’s psychologically powerful and emotionally relevant.
Marianne unpacks the different business models for speakers: the traditional stage fee route (getting paid for keynote sessions at associations or universities), and a more scalable, sustainable approach—offering resources, free tools, or courses to your audience as a seamless next step after speaking. She even shares how simple tools and free resources (like her podcast database) can organically lead to recurring revenue by fulfilling audience needs.
Advice for Aspiring Speakers
For anyone terrified of public speaking, Marianne’s advice is refreshingly simple and actionable: Get the reps in. Start small by going live on social media for two minutes a day—practice is the only way through the fear. She assures listeners that everyone starts small, and reminds us, “Even if no one shows up, just do it anyway.”
Authenticity and impact, according to Marianne, come down to personal growth and honesty. It’s not about presenting a perfect, drama-free life, but about being real, vulnerable, and committed to ongoing evolution. Your message doesn’t have to be traumatic or “the biggest”—it just needs to be yours, rooted in lessons learned and a desire to help others.
Trends and Changes in the Speaking Industry
Marianne and Wize riff on the post-COVID explosion in digital stages, especially podcasts, and the democratization (and challenges) of getting visible in an increasingly crowded market. She notes the importance of longevity—just “keeping going” in the face of comparison and distraction—as well as becoming the “purest version of yourself,” rather than trying to emulate others. Standing out means embracing your unique strengths, flaws, and quirks.
What’s Next? And Marianne’s Final Message
Marianne closes by sharing her plans for upcoming books (“Uninfluenced”), women’s and couples retreats for speakers, and her ambition to put people on a million stages and help them make a billion dollars doing it. But her message for listeners—especially those who feel “too small” to get on stage—is about snuffing out the lies of self-doubt. Every voice matters, and the world needs more good people who know how to use their story for positive change.
Call to Action
If you’re feeling the fire to get your message out or want to explore paid speaking, Marianne welcomes listeners to reach out directly for guidance, resources, or just a supportive conversation. Wize signs off with an invitation: Share this episode with someone whose story deserves the spotlight—they might be “one stage away from everything they’ve been dreaming of.”
Key Episode Themes:
Turning adversity and setbacks into platforms for success
The role of mindset and self-talk in overcoming speaking anxiety
The power of storytelling for influence, impact, and income
Authenticity, vulnerability, and the ethics of sharing your story
Building sustainable success as a speaker, onstage and off
Practical first steps for aspiring speakers
Navigating a changing speaking landscape post-COVID
The value of individuality and consistency over comparison
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For anyone feeling “stuck” and wondering if their story or voice could ever matter, this episode is a must-listen. Marianne Hickman proves that even the most unlikely beginnings can lead to stages that change not only your life, but the lives of others. Tune in for inspiration, laughter, and a practical roadmap to your own breakthrough as a speaker.
Connect with Marianne Hickman:Text her at 801-509-5495, mention the podcast, and start the conversation about using your voice for good and sustainable success.

EP 275 From Scarcity to Magnetism: Cracking the Abundance Code with AD Roberts

Welcome to a powerfully transformative episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, hosted by Wize El Jefe, featuring high-voltage mindset engineer and hypnotherapist, AD Roberts. In this profound and deeply motivating conversation, Wize welcomes AD Roberts to discuss what it really means to “crack the abundance code” and blueprint your way out of lack and scarcity, into empowered, conscious expansion and authentic wealth.
From Rock Bottom to Quantum Breakthroughs
AD Roberts opens up about his journey to success, starting young in real estate and finance, making boatloads of money—then losing it all in the 2008 financial collapse. Raw and honest, AD shares how losing everything forced him to rebuild, not just financially but on a deep psychological, spiritual, and energetic level. What pulled him out? Unshakable faith in the mind’s power and an understanding of the quantum nature of reality. He reveals that the true currency in life is your mindset, and the energetic frequency you hold.
The Science of Abundance: Neuroplasticity Meets Quantum Field
Delving into the intersection of neuroscience and energetics, AD explains how neuroplasticity (the brain’s wiring) and subconscious beliefs determine 95% of your reality. He breaks down how we move through life on autopilot, repeating patterns embedded deep in our subconscious since childhood. Whether it’s beliefs about money (“money doesn’t grow on trees,” “you have to grind to get rich,” “chase the bag”) or fears about scarcity, these narratives shape both our actions and what we attract.
AD reveals practical secrets to rewiring your mind for wealth: upgrading your inner programming, aligning with your wealthy identity, and understanding that manifestation isn’t about chasing—it's about magnetizing abundance through vibration and identity.
The Origin of the Abundance Archetypes
One of the episode’s key highlights is AD’s story behind developing the “Abundance Archetypes” found in his book, Cracking the Abundance Code. After working with countless clients—from C-suite executives to professional athletes—AD noticed universal limiting beliefs blocking abundance. To help people identify and overcome these blocks, he and his team created the Wealth Assessment, which gives each person a score and matches them to an archetype (e.g., Flow Alchemist, Blocked Builder). This system provides a personalized map to uncovering and transcending subconscious roadblocks.
Hypnosis for Success: How to Literally Rewire Your Brain
Ever wondered how hypnosis works in wealth transformation? AD demystifies hypnosis, likening it to the natural trance state we experience every day (like driving and suddenly realizing you’ve arrived). By slowing the brain’s cycles, hypnosis unlocks the subconscious, allowing new empowering beliefs to take root—allowing you to shift from a “scarcity” operating system to one of abundance. He discusses the process, the science, and what clients actually feel during a session—and shares that real freedom is being abundance, not just chasing it.
Redefining Wealth: It’s Personal
What does a “wealthy identity” really look and feel like? According to AD, it’s not a one-size-fits-all template. Wealth for him means time freedom, health, flexibility, and the joy of impacting others—while for someone else it might be land, creativity, or family. He emphasizes that authentic abundance always stems from one’s unique passions and the highest version of themselves.
AD and Wize dive into purpose, with moving stories about discovering their true calling later in life, and the immense joy that comes from serving others. The wisdom here is universal: your life changes when you find the passion that lights you up—work becomes play, and abundance begins to flow.
Words, Frequency, and the Quantum Field
The power of language is another central theme. AD explains how every word you speak emits a vibrational signature that the quantum field mirrors back to you. Whether you choose words of faith or fear, hope or lack, you are literally scripting the next chapter of your reality. The episode is packed with actionable examples and inspirational reframes to help you shift into abundance mode—now.
Action Steps for Listeners Ready to Shift
If you’re stuck in a scarcity mindset, AD lays out the first crucial steps: take a personal assessment, identify your own subconscious blocks, and use daily rituals like meditation, journaling, and affirmations to rewire your frequency. He emphasizes the importance of regular mental “cleansing”—just as you shower daily to remove dirt, daily mindset work keeps you energetically fresh and ready to receive abundance.
Myth-Busting and Radical Truths
AD shoots down common abundance myths, most notably the idea that relentless grind is the only way to success. He introduces the “Law of Least Effort”—that when you’re energetically aligned and open to receive, abundance flows with synchronicity and grace.
Accessing the System: How to Dive Deeper
Throughout the episode, AD shares details about his Cracking the Abundance Code system, including the Wealth Assessment, his powerful 21-day program, and hypnosis tracks designed to help you quantum leap into your wealthy identity. He offers ways to connect further through retreats, one-on-one sessions, and daily TikTok lives—reminding listeners that transformation starts with one simple step of engagement.
A Conversation That’s a Wake-Up Call
The energy between AD and Wize is electrifying—both men passionate about transformation, purpose, and uplifting others. Listeners are encouraged not just to listen, but to act: take the assessment, grab the book, and start reprogramming both thoughts and beliefs. The live interaction with listeners (shoutout to Tony!) reinforces the episode’s core message—your journey from scarcity to abundance can ignite the same spark in others.
Final Takeaway
This isn’t just a podcast episode—it’s an invitation to look within, question your old stories, and choose a new reality. AD and Wize show that abundance isn’t about luck, hustle, or background—it’s about awareness, intentionality, and aligned action. By cracking your own abundance code, you step into a life of purpose, freedom, wealth, and deep fulfillment.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed by scarcity, or just ready for your next leap, this episode is your blueprint and energetic boost to take that first, bold step. Listen, share, and begin your own abundance journey today.

EP 274 Scaling With Soul: Kym Insana’s Guide to Business Growth, Family, and Flexibility

On this episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe sits down for an inspiring and candid conversation with Kym Insana, the dynamic founder of Always On Digital. Kym is living proof that you can build a multi-million dollar business, work with some of the biggest brands in America, AND still make it home for bedtime stories and soccer games. In this heartfelt episode, she opens up about her unconventional journey from a high-stress corporate grind in New York City to creating a thriving digital marketing agency built on freedom, flexibility, and genuine connection.
The episode kicks off with Kym reflecting on a pivotal moment when her young son's daycare journal made her rethink her priorities. She shares how her family’s needs—and especially her desire to be present as a mom—inspired her to quit her long commute, leave her corporate job, and go all-in on entrepreneurship. Kym’s raw honesty will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the pull between career ambition and family life.
Wize guides Kym through her bold transition from corporate leader to business owner, diving into the mental shifts required to move from employee to entrepreneur. Kym talks about her learning curve, from sales to mastering the less glamorous (and often overlooked) aspects of running a business: payroll, insurance, accounting, legal rules, and, most importantly, looking out for her team as she would her own kids.
A significant theme in this episode is how Kym structured Always On Digital around her family’s schedule, creating boundaries that work for both her and her clients. She reveals how honesty and transparency—about things like not taking calls during the 3-5pm “mom window”—built not just a business, but a loyal clientele that appreciates real work-life balance. For listeners wondering if that kind of balance is possible, Kym’s practical advice and lived experience offer real hope.
Wize digs into some of Kym’s growth strategies, from her proven five-step framework for product sales to her philosophy that “the foundation” is the most skipped step for small businesses. She expands on digital marketing myths, strategic platform selection (hint: you don’t have to be everywhere!), and why so many entrepreneurs get distracted by shiny new tools instead of focusing on what works for their actual audience and budget.
Kym spells out the biggest mistakes she sees in digital marketing, including overspending before you’ve exhausted the free and organic opportunities—think, posting consistently and using AI tools like ChatGPT to spark creativity. She emphasizes the importance of cost transparency, knowing exactly where your ad dollars are going, and understanding when it makes sense to shift to paid ads.
An especially powerful section centers on building relationships: whether it’s developing an engaged email list or leading a team of powerhouse moms, Kym shares why loyalty, community, and authenticity always win over flashy metrics or mass production. Her insights into retaining talent and delivering quality service are invaluable for business owners tired of organizational churn and cold company culture.
Throughout the conversation, Kym and Wize keep it real about the highs and lows of juggling work and parenthood. They both share hilarious anecdotes—like kids and grandkids unintentionally crashing live calls—to highlight the beauty in the chaos and the blurry lines we all navigate in the remote work world. There’s wisdom, laughter, and some well-earned humility about days that don’t look as perfect as the Zoom frame suggests.
On the future of digital marketing, Kym forecasts a surge in AI-powered tools but predicts a renewed hunger for the “human touch.” She explores the fast rise of live shopping and how brands need to create authentic, interactive experiences to engage audiences. As technology brings instant gratification closer to home, she stresses the enduring value of genuine, person-to-person service and creative content.
For entrepreneurs hungry to scale sustainably, Kym drops some hard truths about understanding your finances, embracing flexibility, and not falling in love with any one idea (shoutout to Jay-Z’s business advice). She urges listeners to be open to pivots, get foundational accounting skills, and remember that long-term peace and happiness trump empty hustle.
The episode wraps with Kym’s encouragement to anyone on the fence about starting a business: you don’t have to wait for the “perfect” moment. Take small steps, try things part-time, and remember—you can always go back to a job, but you’ll never know what’s possible if you don’t bet on yourself.
If you’re a parent, entrepreneur, creative, or just someone tired of being told you can’t have both ambition and a life, this episode is for you. Kym Insana proves you can scale with soul, and that real success comes from showing up fully—at work, at home, and for yourself.
Connect with Kym Insana:
LinkedIn: Kym Insana
Website: getalwayson.com
Highlights:
The reality of switching from corporate to entrepreneurship
Mastering work-life balance as a parent and CEO
Building a business model and team around real family needs
Small business digital marketing strategies that actually work
How to avoid wasted ad spend and pick platforms that make sense
The growing importance of authenticity and the “human touch” in digital marketing’s AI age
Real stories, laughs, and advice for finding peace and building what matters
Tune in and get unstuck—it’s time to build your business AND your life, on your own terms.

EP 273 Rewriting Your Story at Any Age: Zulma Williams’ Journey from Argentina to Healing Others

What does it take to completely rewrite your story—no matter your age, your past, or the obstacles stacked before you? In this moving episode of Stuck In My Mind, host Wize El Jefe welcomes Zulma Williams, a licensed therapist, trauma specialist, and founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services. Zulma’s journey is anything but ordinary: from a close-knit upbringing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to surviving cancer, toxic relationships, and cultural upheaval, she’s a living embodiment of resilience and reinvention.
Hear Zulma recount her early life shaped by strong family bonds and the instability of Argentina’s economy, leading her to embark on a bold transcontinental move to the United States at the age of 31. She describes the shock, the magic, and the reality of starting over in a new culture where language and customs were unfamiliar. Despite the hardships, Zulma found spark and adventure, challenging herself to adapt and grow.
At 42, while working in accounting, Zulma took an inspiring leap into the world of mental health. She shares how listening to people’s stories—and surviving her own emotional abuse—ignited her passion to help others heal. Zulma’s candid account of confronting a late-in-life breast cancer diagnosis (just after graduating with her bachelor’s degree), and navigating the expectations of her Hispanic upbringing, offers a raw look at battling both illness and cultural barriers.
The conversation dives deep into the challenges of setting boundaries, especially as an immigrant and a Latina woman, and the importance of honoring your own voice—even when tradition says otherwise. Zulma reveals how her experiences and age have become assets in her work, enabling her to connect with clients on a meaningful, transformative level. She explains the unique approach at Dragonfly Therapy Services, including her use of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for trauma, and what the dragonfly symbolizes: deep change, growth, and letting the light in.
As the episode unfolds, Zulma and Wize explore the myths of “too late” and the power of saying “Why not?” to dreams at any stage of life. Listeners will find motivation in stories about pivoting careers, starting over, and how the fears of success can be as real and paralyzing as the fears of failure. Zulma’s vibrant storytelling, sprinkled with humor and authenticity, reconfirms that “stuck” is just a mindset—not a life sentence.
Whether you’re navigating adversity, considering a bold life change, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is full of practical wisdom, hope, and a reminder that our scars can become powerful sources of service and healing. Tune in to be uplifted, challenged, and reminded that if you’re alive—your mission isn’t done yet.
Connect with Zulma Williams:Instagram: @theswearingtherapistWebsite: Dragonfly Therapy ServicesPodcast: Keeping It Real with Zulma the Swearing Therapist
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EP 272 From Tijuana to Wall Street: Jorge Olson on Grit, Branding, and Entrepreneurial Success

In this profound and enlightening episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe welcomes the trailblazing entrepreneur and master storyteller, Jorge Olson, for an in-depth conversation that traverses borders, industries, and the very core of what it means to be resilient, innovative, and authentically driven. Titled “From Tijuana to Wall Street: Jorge Olson on Branding, Capital, and Entrepreneurial Grit,” this episode is not just a window into the highs and lows of startup life, but a masterclass in mindset, storytelling, and the relentless pursuit of creative freedom.
Jorge Olson’s journey reads like a modern hero’s tale. Raised in impoverished conditions in Tijuana, Mexico—without running water or electricity—he grew up surrounded not by business plans, but by art, literature, and philosophy. Jorge shares how these formative years did not teach him about money, but gave him the more foundational qualities required for success: compassion, honesty, hard work, and above all, an insatiable hunger to change his circumstances. He candidly recalls hauling buckets of water as a child, rejecting the idea that poverty was his permanent reality, and forging a vision that would eventually span across borders.
As the conversation unfolds, Jorge unpacks the evolution of his mindset from survival to success, culminating in his rise as an executive and his subsequent realization that financial achievement as an employee did not equate to true freedom. For Jorge, time and creativity—not just the grind—are the true currencies of freedom. This pivot to entrepreneurship, he explains, wasn’t just about making money, but about crafting a life where daily pursuits of writing, art, and imagination could take center stage.
Transparency about adversity threads deeply throughout the episode. Jorge openly discusses the impact of a traumatic brain injury that dramatically altered his capability, drive, and self-perception. From leading companies and clocking marathon days at trade shows, he was forced to reconstruct his routines and ambitions around limited physical and mental energy. Yet, rather than succumbing to grief or limitation, Jorge reframed his priorities: making every hour, every creative act, every single interaction—not just sufficient, but deeply meaningful. This raw vulnerability becomes an uplifting call to listeners struggling with setbacks: You are not alone, and there is power in redefining what “winning” means.
When it comes to branding, Jorge delivers actionable wisdom rooted in decades of success launching over a thousand products and taking five companies public. He advocates for an outcome-driven process, starting with the intended result and the customer avatar, before meticulously working backward through audience research, pricing, and emotional connection. He outlines practical branding strategies through real-world examples, such as his upcoming beverage brand, Calmara, aimed at fans of meditation, anime, and Japanese culture. The secret sauce? Forging emotional resonance through storytelling, community engagement, and delivering experiences that turn customers into brand advocates.
Jorge doesn’t shy away from the hard truths behind raising capital, either. He reveals what truly moves investors: a compelling story, not just financial projections. He stresses the importance of knowing your target investor, crafting kitchen-table pitches for early-stage deals, practicing your delivery, and never relying on empty clichés like “capturing 1% of a massive market.” Jorge recounts common pitch failures—such as obsessing over NDAs and lack of preparation—and emphasizes that founders must know their numbers inside-out and be able to articulate a realistic, ambitious, and credible vision.
A hallmark of this episode is its exploration of creativity and execution. Jorge describes his process of managing multiple ventures, writing several books simultaneously, and treating every project as a canvas for creative growth. Having endured life-altering physical limitations, he now balances relentless creative output with strict physical therapy, nutritional discipline, and mindful routines, all while amplifying his impact as a mentor and a master of personal branding.
Listeners are also treated to entertaining and insightful behind-the-scenes stories about collaborating with celebrities like Dennis Rodman, Rick Ross, and Snoop Dogg on product launches. Jorge demystifies what distinguishes celebrity projects from regular entrepreneurial ventures—often, less ego and more trust in the experts around them—and highlights the speed, professionalism, and storytelling prowess required to succeed at scale.
As the episode nears its close, Jorge and Wize’s conversation moves to legacy—a topic both personal and universal. Jorge aspires to leave an indelible mark through his books, ensuring that his strategies, philosophy, and inspiration reach minorities and future entrepreneurs in both the US and Mexico. Wize, meanwhile, vulnerably shares his own hero’s journey through loss, trauma, and reinvention, echoing the episode’s core messages of resilience and purposeful living.
“From Tijuana to Wall Street” is far more than an interview—it is a narrative tapestry woven from the struggles and triumphs of those who refuse to accept the limits set before them. Through Jorge Olson’s lived experience and candid advice, listeners of all backgrounds—be they aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, or anyone feeling ‘stuck’—will find motivation to push boundaries, embrace creative rituals, master the art of storytelling, and above all, make every moment count. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to transform adversity into achievement and craft a lasting legacy built on grit, impact, and authenticity.
 

EP 271 How to Transform Your Entrepreneurial Dreams into Media Success

From Entrepreneur to Legal Media Mogul: The Rise of Dennis Meador
In this dynamic episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe sits down with Dennis Meador, a trailblazer who’s shaking up the legal media landscape. Dennis is the founder of the Legal Podcast Network, a platform that is quickly redefining how legal professionals present themselves, grow their practices, and connect with the modern client. From an entrepreneurial journey that started in a troubled childhood to building an industry-changing brand, Dennis shares the wisdom, grit, and creativity that fueled his rise from scrappy startup hustler to visionary legal media mogul.
A Journey Forged in Adversity
Dennis’ story begins in stark circumstances. Growing up surrounded by poverty and hardship, where his mother’s associates were often on the wrong side of the law, he developed a keen sense for business and people out of sheer necessity. By 14, Dennis was already orchestrating local “gig economy” ventures—managing lawn mowing, raking, snow shoveling, and paper routes—discovering early that assembling opportunity for others could be more profitable than doing the jobs himself. This street-smart approach to entrepreneurship would become a hallmark of his future endeavors.
Breaking Into Legal Marketing
Although Dennis’ initial foray into business was far from the legal world, he eventually found himself in legal marketing, initially hesitant about working with attorneys. However, he was drawn in by the logical, debate-driven mindset of lawyers and discovered he could connect with them through reason rather than emotional sales tactics. This unique relationship and appreciation for attorneys’ logic-based approach inspired Dennis to consider how he could further serve this niche.
The Spark Behind Legal Podcast Network
The idea for the Legal Podcast Network was born from Dennis’ deep experience in content creation and a transformative podcast project he led in Austin in 2019. By creating high-quality, multi-camera podcasts for musicians, entrepreneurs, and chefs, Dennis quickly found himself at the center of Austin’s creative scene, proving that individuals don’t have to wait for traditional media— they can be the media. Building on this, and realizing how much attorneys wanted to make their own voices heard (but didn’t have the tools or time), Dennis envisioned a full-service, high-impact content platform built specifically for the small law firm.
Solving Authority and Content Challenges for Lawyers
The Legal Podcast Network goes far beyond just producing podcasts. Dennis and his team offer attorneys a complete content ecosystem: from recording and producing professional-quality podcasts, to extracting and posting 30+ pieces of social and website content per episode, to handling all the distribution logistics for the client. What problem is this solving? Two huge ones:
Authoritative Positioning: Attorneys need to stand out in a sea of sameness. Most have generic, template-based websites; the Legal Podcast Network offers engaging, highly relevant content that instantly elevates their credibility and expertise.
Content Overwhelm: Producing consistent, high-quality digital content is a massive time drain—especially for small firms. With Dennis’ platform, lawyers can simply show up for a short recording session and reap the rewards of a month’s worth of expertly repurposed material.
Why Storytelling—and Podcasting—Matters for Attorneys
In an era when trust and expertise are the new currency, Dennis argues that audio and video content are exponentially more powerful than written articles for building credibility. Podcasting is uniquely accessible: clients can consume episodes passively on the go, and attorneys can showcase not only their knowledge, but also their authenticity and personal style. Whether aiming to attract direct clients, impress referring peers, or establish industry thought leadership, podcasting creates a lasting advantage—especially for smaller law firms unable to outspend larger competitors on traditional advertising.
Myths Busted and Misconceptions Addressed
One major misconception Dennis addresses is that podcasting is a massive time commitment for attorneys. In reality, with the right support, attorneys can invest just 30–45 minutes monthly and receive an entire suite of content. The platform’s done-for-you approach makes professional podcasting accessible even to legal professionals who aren’t seasoned public speakers or media personalities—the only requirement is a willingness to answer client-centric questions candidly and clearly.
Challenges of Scaling a Vision
While launching the Legal Podcast Network was straightforward for this veteran entrepreneur, scaling the business presented significant operational hurdles—especially building the right systems, onboarding processes, and infrastructure to serve a rapidly growing roster of demanding clients. Dennis shares how careful, measured growth and continuous improvements in client communication were key to maintaining a high-quality customer experience and reputation.
Surprising Successes and Powerful Results
Unexpectedly, the platform has attracted interest not just from attorneys, but also from other legal industry service providers and even rival marketing agencies eager to outsource podcasting production to Dennis’ team. This validates the company’s innovative model and broad appeal.
Moreover, the stories Dennis shares highlight how clients are already seeing enhanced visibility, authority, and client engagement from their podcasts, as their content surges in online search results—and even catches the attention of colleagues and potential referrers in other states.
Advice for Niche Media Entrepreneurs
Dennis closes with advice for anyone building a specialized media platform: reverse-engineer your service from the client’s real needs, listen closely to their pain points, and address objections proactively. He reveals how he continuously refines his sales and product approach, stays abreast of digital trends by “living in the algorithm,” and focuses on delivering tangible results for a tightly defined audience.
The Future of Legal Marketing—and Beyond
Looking ahead, Dennis sees podcasting and multi-platform content as a rising standard in legal services marketing, driven by generational shifts in media consumption habits. While not every lawyer will become a podcaster, those who embrace this model now will be well-positioned for the future as Generation Z and Alpha increasingly turn to podcasts and social video for information and decision-making.
Dennis also teases new projects, like his forthcoming show “BAM: Building Authority through Media,” combining his knack for storytelling with a touch of nostalgia and a focus on marketing education.
Key Takeaways:
Authenticity Wins: Modern clients crave transparency and real expertise. Podcasting allows lawyers to show, not just tell, what sets them apart.
Small Firms, Big Impact: Legal practices with small budgets can outmaneuver big competitors by dominating digital platforms with the right strategy.
Done-For-You Is the Future: Time-starved professionals benefit from plug-and-play content solutions rather than doing it all themselves.
Niche Focus is Essential: Serving a tightly defined client base—and speaking directly to their needs—drives authority, respect, and premium business.
Podcasting is Here to Stay: As media consumption habits evolve, multi-format content production (especially audio and video) will be a key marketing pillar for service professionals.
Tune in to hear Dennis’ inspiring story, practical advice, and his bold vision for the “new media” age in professional services. Whether you’re a lawyer, entrepreneur, or media enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies for standing out in any crowded marketplace.
Connect with Dennis Meador:
LinkedIn: Dennis Meador
Legal Podcast Network
New site coming soon: imnotgoingtopitchyou.com
Don’t miss this episode if you want to understand the future of professional branding, the real power of storytelling for business, and what it takes to transform hustle into authority in the 21st century.

EP 270 Awakening the Healer Within Cheryl Stelte on Meditation, Spiritual Healing, and True Empowerment

 Awakening the Healer Within – A Conversation with Cheryl Stelte
In this extraordinary episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe sits down with visionary healer, author, and spiritual coach Cheryl Stelte for an inspiring journey into the world of holistic healing, self-empowerment, and awakening the healer within. Cheryl’s unique blend of experience, wisdom, and authenticity radiates throughout the conversation, offering listeners practical tools, profound stories, and spiritual insights that speak to those seeking transformation, purpose, and a deeper connection to their authentic selves.
From Tragedy to Transformation
Cheryl opens up about the pivotal spiritual experience that changed her life—the day her deceased brother visited her in a profound moment of love and guidance on a beach in Western Canada. Through an impromptu kinesiology session, Cheryl encountered a “ball of white light” and received a clear message from her brother: to begin meditating as a way to connect with him and herself on a deeper level. This encounter set Cheryl on an unexpected spiritual path—one that would lead to discovering the life-changing power of meditation, breathwork, and inner healing. She candidly shares the struggle of being lost after such an event, navigating a world that thirty years ago was less receptive to meditation and spiritual exploration, and the perseverance that helped her sustain these practices over the decades.
Navigating Darkness: Overcoming Depression with Spiritual Practice
Delving into her personal journey through depression and moments of despair, Cheryl reveals how her spiritual practices, particularly meditation, became her medicine and lifeline. Through consistent meditation, she began to process years of emotional trauma and unexpressed pain—gradually moving from surviving to thriving, and ultimately exchanging antidepressants for transformative self-care. Cheryl’s story underscores the importance of self-compassion, honoring our emotional wounds, and the power of spiritual practice in finding light through the darkest times.
Azaria’s Energy Healing: An Integration of Traditions
Listeners are introduced to Cheryl’s signature healing modality, Azaria’s Energy Healing—a powerful synthesis of meditation, Sufi breathwork, shamanic practices, Reiki, and acupressure. Cheryl recounts her journey through various healing systems from around the globe, studying with masters and embracing techniques that focus on deep, root-level transformation. A unique aspect of her approach is her commitment to teaching others to heal themselves, fostering lasting empowerment. Cheryl shares stories of working with clients who experienced breakthroughs where “no one else could go as deep,” highlighting the profound nature of her work and her dedication to those truly ready for healing.
Heart-Centered Shamanism: Journey Inward
Cheryl introduces the concept of heart-centered shamanism—an approach that contrasts traditional shamanic practices. Instead of “leaving the body” for spiritual journeys, Cheryl teaches going inward: connecting with the heart, the soul, and the body’s innate intelligence. Citing her experience reading chakras—where she identifies both the superpowers and the wounds within—Cheryl explains the transformative and protective power of remaining grounded in one’s own body during healing work.
Global Insights: Lessons from the Maasai and Samburu
Drawing on her time living with the Maasai and Samburu tribes in Africa, Cheryl shares deeply moving observations about collective and individual experiences of love, survival, and the absence of emotional connection in some communities. She explains how the realization that love—and the ability to both give and receive it—is the foundation for abundance, healing, and true well-being. Cheryl’s stories provide a rich, cross-cultural lens through which to understand spiritual connection and the universal longing for love.
Becoming a Client Magnet: Energetics of Authenticity
What does it mean to become a “client magnet”? Cheryl explains the energetic mechanics behind it: when you release internal blocks and align with your soul’s purpose, you naturally radiate the energy that attracts those who are meant to work with you. The episode details practical cues and signs for noticing energetic blockages—like throat chakra issues manifesting as difficulties expressing one’s truth, struggling to be heard, or fearing visibility—and how to recognize the genuine call to become a healer.
Stuck in the Mind—Finding the Path Forward
The conversation takes a beautifully vulnerable turn as Wize shares his own struggles with doubt and launching the podcast, resonating with listeners who’ve found themselves “stuck” and afraid to step into their unique greatness. Cheryl affirms that such fears often point to our biggest potential, echoing the importance of “getting out of the head and into the body.” The supportive banter between Cheryl and Wize illustrates the healing force of authentic connection and community.
Integrating Spirituality and the Practical World
Cheryl offers wisdom for those feeling spiritually awakened yet lost in the practical world, identifying key signs such as being ungrounded or experiencing the “dark night of the soul”—a developmental passage characterized by a profound sense of disconnection and surrender. She details how energy healing can help individuals release subconscious blocks rooted in childhood, without reliving trauma, and move into a place of true empowerment.
Virtual Healing, Daily Rituals, and Cheryl’s Vision
Emphasizing the power and efficacy of virtual healing, Cheryl and Wize both reflect on their experiences with digital energy exchange, reinforcing the idea that true spiritual connection transcends physical proximity. Cheryl graciously shares her daily practices—decades of meditation, mindful walks, the Five Tibetan Rites, and yearly personal retreats—and stresses the importance of evolving rituals as one’s journey unfolds.
Cheryl’s ultimate vision with the Star of Divine Light Institute is to help people recognize their authentic power, become empowered beyond belief, and awaken to their true selves as radiant beings of light.
Resources, Books, and Continuing the Journey
At the end of the episode, Cheryl highlights her three books:
Heal Your Neck Issues and Let Your Throat Chakra Shine
Client Magnet
From Blocked to Powerful
She invites listeners for chakra readings and to access free resources on her website: starofdivinelight.com, and encourages connecting with her on Instagram (@stelte.cheryl).
Why You Should Listen
This episode is a deep dive into the interplay between spirituality and real-world challenges, a blueprint for awakening the latent healer within, and a heartfelt reminder that even in our most “stuck” moments, transformation is possible. Whether you are on your own healing path, aspiring to work as a healer, or simply seeking inspiration to move past doubt and step into your purpose, this conversation promises to spark insight, hope, and renewed motivation.
Tune in and join the Stuck In My Mind community for a conversation that might just awaken the healer—and the greatness—already inside you.