Small Changes Big Shifts

Kindness begins with the example we set and the connections we create. Kansas City singer-songwriter Katie Ziegler joins Bayleigh Soza and Dr. Michelle Robin to discuss how motherhood, music, and personal experiences shape her approach to kindness, compassion, and empathy. Inspired by Dolly Parton's generosity, Katie shares why authenticity and treating others well matter more than perfection.

Through honest songwriting, Katie turns personal struggles into music that helps others feel understood and less alone. The conversation explores the impact of mentors, the power of music, and how small acts of kindness create lasting ripples in families and communities.

Key Takeaways:

•

Children learn kindness by watching how adults treat others.

•

Genuine kindness comes from compassion, humility, and a good heart.

•

Honest songwriting helps others feel understood and less alone.

•

Music and words can shape emotions and inspire positive change.

•

Mentors and small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Katie Ziegler:

Katie Ziegler is an independent singer-songwriter based in the Kansas City metro area whose voice carries the wide-open spaces of her rural Kansas upbringing and the intimate stories of home. Raised in a musical family, she began writing songs at age 11 and picked up the guitar at 16 — early roots that formed her personal, narrative-driven songwriting.

In August 2022 she released her first single, "He Ain't Yours," and then followed it with her debut EP Residue, steadily building a catalog of 14 songs.

Katie has opened for acts like the The Bellamy Brothers, Eli Young Band, Billy Dean, Twitty & Lynn, Jerrod Niemann, Logan Mize and Cody Canada & The Departed, sharpening her performance chops on larger stages.

In her own words: "I'm a small-town Kansas girl chasing dreams — and if I can write something and make someone else feel understood, then it's all worth it." That sentiment reflects both her origin and her mission.

Off stage, she shares glimpses of her heart with her social media following: "Long video alert but if you're looking for a little encouragement I hope this can," she posted recently, showing that her music is about more than notes — it's about connection.

Beyond her role as an artist, Katie embraces life as a "songwriter, wife … girl mama" from small-town Kansas, "chasing dreams."

With one foot in her rural roots and the other in the vibrant KC metro music scene, Katie Ziegler writes songs that feel lived-in and real. Whether she's strumming a guitar in a quiet cabin or stepping into the spotlight as an opener for national artists, her journey is both grounded and ambitious — and each song is a small invitation to walk alongside her.

Connect with Katie Ziegler at:

https://katiezieglermusic.com/

https://www.instagram.com/itskatieziegler/

https://www.facebook.com/itskatieziegler

https://www.tiktok.com/@itskatieziegler?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

https://www.youtube.com/@itskatieziegler

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Driven by a passion for healthier living and stronger communities, Chris Goode, founder and CEO of Ruby Jean's Juicery, is turning everyday actions into meaningful change. Inspired by the legacy of his grandmother, Ruby Jean, Chris built a purpose-driven business rooted in health, family, and the belief that everyone deserves access to better choices.

In conversation with Bayleigh Soza, Chris explores how health equity, community connection, and simple acts of kindness can create a lasting ripple effect. From making nutritious food more accessible to caring for his neighborhood, his journey reminds us that true success is not measured by money or recognition, but by how our choices help us become happier, healthier, and kinder.

Key Takeaways:

•

Small, healthy habits and consistent lifestyle changes can improve overall well-being.

•

Sharing food and traditions helps strengthen relationships and build connected communities.

•

Making nutritious food more accessible gives more people the opportunity to live healthier lives.

•

Simple acts of kindness can inspire others and create a lasting positive impact.

•

True success goes beyond money and recognition; it means living happier, healthier, and kinder lives.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Chris Goode:

Chris Goode is the founder and CEO of Ruby Jean's Juicery. The brand began with a single juicer in a 700-square-foot storefront at 40th and Broadway, named for the grandmother he lost at fourteen. Within the first year he bought his first cold press, and a decade later Ruby Jean's is the number one rated juice brand in the Midwest, poured at CPKC Stadium and stocked in over 150 Whole Foods locations from Hawaii to DC. The story of how a corner shop became a national brand is also the story of how Chris learned to make a place. Ruby Jean's flagship sits at 3000 TRUTH Avenue, on land that was once a 365-acre plantation where forty enslaved people tended fruit orchards. Chris acquired that ground in February 2022, during Black History Month. He did not buy a building. He bought back a piece of land that owed his people something, and gave it a new assignment.

From that one corner, Chris has built a small ecosystem of culture and care. Patio 3000 has become a transformative gathering space and the home of Juice Jamz, a three-year running mini-festival that lifts local business, art, and culture. What was once a dark, underused hallway is now the Art Hall, a rotating exhibition that has featured local Black creatives who keep 100 percent of what their work earns. A newly curated room called the End Space gives another local artist a home.

Beyond the walls, Chris has worked as a placemaker across Kansas City. He and his team have begun documenting the corridors and corners they have helped reimagine, and the list is long. He led the renaming of JC Nichols Parkway and was instrumental in seeing Dr. King honored in Kansas City. He pushed for the crosswalk that now connects South Moreland Park to the Nelson Atkins Museum. A forthcoming connector bridge over Brush Creek, federally funded by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver to the tune of three million dollars, will soon stitch the neighborhood south of MLK Park back to the park itself, a piece of his vision now in motion. He has fought to rename Troost to TRUTH, and is still fighting. Nine years in, he is still tending to the Paseo stairs with the help of partners like Rockhurst University, still pursuing funds to finish the project, and still showing up for the annual cleanups. The ribbon cutting is not what drives him anymore. The acceptance of the call to truly care, to serve, and to see his community's longevity positively impacted is. From that same root, he built Ruby Jean's Foundation, Ruby Jean's Garden, and the bus stop adoption program. His civic voice has grown alongside the brand, and where the city needs sharpening, he speaks.

What Ruby Jean's has done inside the larger story of Kansas City may be the truest measure of the work. In a city whose identity has been written for generations in smoke and sauce, Chris has woven nourishment into the cultural fabric without shaming the table. He has never asked anyone to eat like a bird. He has kept the soul in soul food, and vacated the deadliness. He is an Emmy Award-winning entrepreneur, author of thge acclaimed children's book Ruby Jean's Garden, husband to Tania, and father to Levin and Heart. He opens every room the way he was raised: in the name of Jesus Christ.

Connect with Chris Goode at:

https://www.rubyjeansjuicery.com/

https://www.instagram.com/rubyjeansjuicery/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/genuinejuiceguy/?hl=en

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this special 600th episode of Small Changes, Big Shifts, Dr. Michelle Robin, Bayleigh Soza, and guest host Joel Goldberg celebrate the podcast's journey and the impact of small changes. They discuss the importance of building healthy habits, staying connected, and focusing on the basics of wellness, including sleep, nutrition, movement, gratitude, and community.

They also reflect on learning from different generations, creating a sense of belonging, and spreading kindness through meaningful connections. As they look toward the future of Small Changes, Big Shifts and the Kindness Campaign, they remind listeners that small actions can inspire hope, strengthen communities, and create lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

•

Simple daily habits like getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active build a strong foundation for wellness.

•

Focus on the people you impact rather than numbers or popularity.

•

Strong communities grow through meaningful connections and mutual support.

•

Learning from different generations helps us grow and understand new perspectives.

•

Small acts of kindness can inspire hope and create lasting positive change.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Joel Goldberg:

Joel Goldberg broke into the sports broadcasting scene by knocking on the doors of television stations, cold calling broadcast executives and sending out resume tapes in the 1990s.

His career was never handed to him. Rather, it was the product of building connections and dedication, mixed with years of hard work. Joel has worked in four markets during a 30-year career, covering two World Series Championship teams and thousands of baseball games, not to mention multiple Super Bowls, NHL playoffs and NCAA March Madness basketball games.

Joel has had the pleasure of interviewing countless athletes, Hall of Famers and celebrities while traveling the world, telling stories from famous stars to under-the-radar role players.

His longtime job covering the Kansas City Royals as a host and reporter is a privilege, enabling him to entertain, inform and connect fans to athletes. Through his years of storytelling and watching championship organizations succeed (and fail), he realized his access to methods executives use to build culture and championship teams translated to the corporate world.

That's why Joel created the Game Changer Speaking Series to help organizations win trust and build a championship culture. Access insights from Joel through his podcast Rounding the Bases or book him for your next event.

Connect with Joel Goldberg at:

https://www.instagram.com/joelgoldbergkc/?hl=en

https://www.joelgoldbergmedia.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Goldbergkc/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelgoldbergkc

https://www.youtube.com/@joelgoldbergmedia

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

A former foster child and adoptee who now leads Cornerstones of Care, Merideth Rose's journey is rooted in resilience, healing, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel safe and seen. Drawing from her own experiences with trauma and the people who surrounded her with kindness, Merideth shares how those lessons continue to shape the way she leads, serves families, and creates healthier communities. Through a powerful conversation on safety, authenticity, curiosity, and Ubuntu, she reminds us that kindness can be more than a gesture. It can become a way of leading, healing, and building a better world together.

Key Takeaways:

•

Kindness creates a foundation of safety where people can feel seen, heard, and valued.

•

Healing can transform personal experiences into compassion and purpose for serving others.

•

Strong leadership can hold both accountability and kindness without sacrificing either.

•

Curiosity helps us understand what people are carrying instead of judging what we see on the surface.

•

Ubuntu reminds us that our well-being is deeply connected to the well-being of those around us.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

Join us for our 31 Days of Kindness Campaign starting October 14 and help us create a ripple of kindness through small, meaningful acts that can make a big difference!

About Merideth Rose:

Merideth Rose is President and CEO of Cornerstones of Care, a behavioral health organization serving more than 14,000 children and families annually across Missouri and Kansas. Her professional journey spans more than two decades of leadership in education, public service, nonprofit management, community development, and human services. Before joining Cornerstones of Care, Merideth held executive leadership roles at Community Services League, served as a public affairs officer with FEMA following Superstorm Sandy, and became the first Black woman to serve as an administrator in the Independence School District.

A former foster youth and adoptee, Merideth leads from a deeply personal belief that no life, story, or person is beyond healing, restoration, and transformation. Her own journey has taught her that kindness is more than a gesture. It is a powerful expression of seeing people fully, honoring their humanity, and helping them recognize what is still possible.

Through her leadership, speaking, and community service, Merideth invites individuals and organizations to create cultures of care where people feel seen, supported, and worthy. At the heart of her work is the philosophy of Ubuntu: I am because you are, and the conviction that small acts of courage, compassion, and connection can create lasting change.

Connect with Merideth Rose at:

https://www.cornerstonesofcare.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meridethrose/

https://www.tiktok.com/@themerrose

https://youtu.be/4d9ZqvmLCcc?si=w9tqqdsQS_9v2haf

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Author, entrepreneur, and longtime advocate for children, Peter Samuelson returns to Small Changes Big Shifts with a powerful vision for making kindness more visible, measurable, and contagious. Inspired by his work with foster youth and years of building social-impact organizations, Peter shares the story behind Ripple of Kindness (ROK), a movement designed to help one act of kindness inspire another and create a growing chain of positive impact. His message is a reminder that kindness is not just something we practice individually. It is something we can intentionally build into our communities and pass forward.

Key Takeaways:

•

One intentional act of kindness can inspire others and create a ripple far beyond the original moment.

•

Making kindness visible helps people recognize the impact they can have on others and their communities.

•

Young people can find purpose and empowerment when they are given the opportunity to help others.

•

Building a culture of kindness requires consistency, encouragement, and a willingness to lead by example.

•

Small acts of compassion can become part of a much larger movement when people choose to pass them forward.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Peter Samuelson:

Peter Samuelson is an author, Founder and President of First Star, a film producer and a serial pro-social entrepreneur. In 1982 he co-founded the Starlight Children's Foundation; by 1990 the positive psychological impact of Starlight seeded his next pro-social endeavor, Starbright World, co-founded with Steven Spielberg. 1999 saw the formation of First Star, 2005 EDAR Everyone Deserves a Roof, and 2013 saw him launch ASPIRE, the Academy for Social Purpose in Responsible Entertainment. In the midst of all this Peter has produced 26 films and raised four children. Educated at Cambridge and the Anderson School of Management at UCLA, Peter resides in Los Angeles with his wife Saryl, and continues to fight every day for those less fortunate, chief among them abused and neglected children. He is the CEO of ROKindness.org in formation.

Connect with Peter Samuelson at:

https://www.rokindness.org/

https://www.samuelson.la/

https://www.facebook.com/petergsamuelson/

https://x.com/petergsamuelson

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

At 70, Linda Loveless is embracing a new chapter of identity, purpose, and self-discovery through her book Becoming Her Again. After navigating grief, long COVID, loss, and seasons of feeling disconnected from herself, Linda shares how healing helped her reclaim her confidence and rediscover who she is becoming. Her journey encourages women to release what no longer serves them, trust themselves, and recognize that it is never too late to choose a new beginning.

Key Takeaways:

•

Healing begins when we slow down, listen within, and become curious about what we truly need.

•

Every season of life offers an opportunity to rediscover who we are and who we want to become.

•

Keeping your word to yourself builds confidence, trust, and a stronger sense of self.

•

Releasing old beliefs and expectations creates space for new possibilities, purpose, and joy.

•

It is never too late to reclaim your voice, embrace your next chapter, and live fully.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Linda Loveless:

Linda Loveless is a Lifestyle and Image Transformation Coach, speaker, author, and founder of the Remembering Her Again movement. At 71 years young, Linda is passionate about helping women realize that they are not done yet, their most meaningful and powerful chapters are still ahead of them. Through her signature Crown Doctrine, Linda helps women reclaim their identity, confidence, personal style, purpose, and radiance after years of putting everyone and everything else first. Her book, Remembering Her Again: The Crown Doctrine for Women Who Know They're Not Done Yet, is an invitation for women to stop shrinking, remember who they are, and boldly step into what's next. Linda Believes that transformation doesn't always begin with a giant leap. It begins with one small decision to see yourself differently, and that small shift can change everything.

Connect with Linda Loveless at:

https://www.arbonne.com/us/en/arb/lindaloveless/

https://www.amazon.ca/Remembering-Her-Again-Doctrine-Theyre/dp/B0HB2PBJ62

https://www.instagram.com/imagebydesign_stylecoach/

https://www.facebook.com/linda.loveless.3

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Dr. Michael Roizen returns for Part 2 of the conversation on longevity, healthspan, and the future of healthy aging. Building on the previous discussion, he dives deeper into The Great Age Reboot and the emerging science behind extending not just lifespan, but years of health, mobility, and vitality. From brain health and stress management to nutrition, movement, purpose, and the latest advances in longevity research, Dr. Roizen shares practical steps people can take today while exploring what the future of medicine may make possible tomorrow.

Key Takeaways:

•

Healthy aging is shaped by the daily choices we make long before we reach older age.

•

Brain health benefits from movement, cognitive challenges, stress management, and meaningful engagement.

•

Nutrition, physical activity, and healthy metabolic markers are important foundations for longevity.

•

Purpose, friendship, and play can help support a healthier and more fulfilling life as we age.

•

Emerging advances in gene editing, stem cell research, and other longevity therapies could reshape how we approach aging in the future.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. Michael Roizen:

Dr. Roizen served as Cleveland Clinic's first Chief Wellness Officer from 2007 to 2019 & founding Chair of its Wellness Institute. The Clinic's Wellness Programs helped the clinic not spend over 1.250 billion dollars for its 101,000 employees & dependents over 11 years compared with national averages and help over 43.6% of participants achieve 6 normals+2 ® for health. This reduced their rate of aging and time of disability equivalent to 12.5 years over an 80 year lifespan.

Dr Roizen is a recipient of an Emmy, an Elle, the Paul Rogers best medical communicator award from the National Library of Medicine, & the Bennett Family Award from GlobalWellnesSummit. He initiated & developed the RealAge concept to motivate behavior change. That started the concept that 60 could be the new 40. He believes that soon 90 will be the new 40—how you can prepare for it is described in his recently released book and app-newsletter, The Great Age Reboot and 4 YOUngevity.com Ai coaching program & free newsletter.

He has authored over 195 peer reviewed scientific publications (he really is a science nerd), four New York Times #1 best sellers, 9 overall top 10 bestsellers including his initial #1 Bestseller in 5 countries, "RealAge: Are You As Young As You Can Be?", "AgeProof—Living Longer without breaking a hip or running out of money" and his book that displaced Harry Potter from #1 on Amazon for 177 days, YOU: On A Diet, The Owner's Manual for Waist Management. He served 16 years on FDA advisory committees, including chairing one for two years. His books have been translated into 44 languages and been number 1 in 5 countries in addition to the USA. He helped start 14 companies including his current Therapeutic Plasma Exchange Company, Lifespan-Edge.com, , co-invented a drug approved by the FDA, co-invented the Cloud (US Patent # 2004/0205055A1 ; his coinventor –who took it from him—was just awarded 673 million dollars from Amazon)and has a weekly podcast now in its 1268th+ week; he and Dr Oz coauthored a daily column syndicated to over 68 newspapers that translates current scientific reports into actionable steps for lay audiences. When Dr Oz declared his candidacy for public office, Dr Roizen has continued the column alone, but have recently started writing it together again, but he has restarted alone as Dr Oz is now USA's CMS Director-Administrator.

He is a recipient of The United Way of Cleveland Humanitarian of the Year Award. He has won over 75 trophies in class A squash competition. His wife is a developmental pediatrician also listed in the Best Doctors in America. The Roizens have two children: Jenny, a PhD organic chemist working for the US Energy Department, and Jeffrey, an MD/PhD faculty member in pediatric endocrinology at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Roizen is devoted to helping people live younger. He consults with patients in Cleveland Clinic's Executive Health and Wellness Programs. He teaches them the 80% likelihood that they can be 40 at calendar age 90, and how to prepare for that.

Connect with Dr. Michael Roizen at:

https://4youngevity.com/

https://lifespan-edge.com/

https://michaelfroizenmd.substack.com/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Our daily choices can shape not only how long we live, but how well we live. Dr. Michael Roizen challenges us to rethink aging by exploring how nutrition, movement, prevention, and personal motivation can influence our health trajectory.

Drawing from decades of medical experience and longevity research, Dr. Roizen shares why finding your personal "why" is essential to lasting change and how wellness can benefit individuals, families, and communities. His message is hopeful and empowering: we can take meaningful steps today to live younger, longer, and with greater purpose.

Key Takeaways:

•

Our daily choices around nutrition, movement, tobacco, stress, and other lifestyle factors can significantly influence our health trajectory and quality of life.

•

Finding your personal motivator is essential because lasting behavior change becomes more meaningful when it connects to something you genuinely care about.

•

Staying well is not only a personal responsibility but can also contribute to healthier families, stronger communities, and a more sustainable healthcare system.

•

Wellness programs can create meaningful change when organizations make healthy choices easier and support people in building sustainable habits.

•

Longevity science is rapidly evolving, giving us new opportunities to extend not just lifespan but the number of years we can live with strength, independence, and purpose.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. Michael Roizen:

Dr. Roizen served as Cleveland Clinic's first Chief Wellness Officer from 2007 to 2019 & founding Chair of its Wellness Institute. The Clinic's Wellness Programs helped the clinic not spend over 1.250 billion dollars for its 101,000 employees & dependents over 11 years compared with national averages and help over 43.6% of participants achieve 6 normals+2 ® for health. This reduced their rate of aging and time of disability equivalent to 12.5 years over an 80 year lifespan.

Dr Roizen is a recipient of an Emmy, an Elle, the Paul Rogers best medical communicator award from the National Library of Medicine, & the Bennett Family Award from GlobalWellnesSummit. He initiated & developed the RealAge concept to motivate behavior change. That started the concept that 60 could be the new 40. He believes that soon 90 will be the new 40—how you can prepare for it is described in his recently released book and app-newsletter, The Great Age Reboot and 4 YOUngevity.com Ai coaching program & free newsletter.

He has authored over 195 peer reviewed scientific publications (he really is a science nerd), four New York Times #1 best sellers, 9 overall top 10 bestsellers including his initial #1 Bestseller in 5 countries, "RealAge: Are You As Young As You Can Be?", "AgeProof—Living Longer without breaking a hip or running out of money" and his book that displaced Harry Potter from #1 on Amazon for 177 days, YOU: On A Diet, The Owner's Manual for Waist Management. He served 16 years on FDA advisory committees, including chairing one for two years. His books have been translated into 44 languages and been number 1 in 5 countries in addition to the USA. He helped start 14 companies including his current Therapeutic Plasma Exchange Company, Lifespan-Edge.com, , co-invented a drug approved by the FDA, co-invented the Cloud (US Patent # 2004/0205055A1 ; his coinventor –who took it from him—was just awarded 673 million dollars from Amazon)and has a weekly podcast now in its 1268th+ week; he and Dr Oz coauthored a daily column syndicated to over 68 newspapers that translates current scientific reports into actionable steps for lay audiences. When Dr Oz declared his candidacy for public office, Dr Roizen has continued the column alone, but have recently started writing it together again, but he has restarted alone as Dr Oz is now USA's CMS Director-Administrator.

He is a recipient of The United Way of Cleveland Humanitarian of the Year Award. He has won over 75 trophies in class A squash competition. His wife is a developmental pediatrician also listed in the Best Doctors in America. The Roizens have two children: Jenny, a PhD organic chemist working for the US Energy Department, and Jeffrey, an MD/PhD faculty member in pediatric endocrinology at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Roizen is devoted to helping people live younger. He consults with patients in Cleveland Clinic's Executive Health and Wellness Programs. He teaches them the 80% likelihood that they can be 40 at calendar age 90, and how to prepare for that.

Connect with Dr. Michael Roizen at:

https://4youngevity.com/

https://lifespan-edge.com/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What began as one family's search for a safe place for their daughter to recover became a mission to help hundreds of others find stability, accountability, and hope. Rob and Anissa Elsey share the personal story behind In the Name of Grace and how their daughter's struggle with substance use disorder inspired them to expand recovery housing across Missouri. Their journey is a powerful reminder of how personal challenges can become a greater purpose when we choose to help others.

Rob and Anissa also explore why recovery doesn't end when treatment does, highlighting the importance of community, peer support, structure, and accountability. From breaking generational cycles to challenging the stigma around addiction and mental health, they share why becoming "balcony people"—those who lift others up—can create lasting change. Their story shows that recovery is not something we navigate alone, and that compassion and community can help transform lives.

Key Takeaways:

•

Recovery continues beyond treatment and requires ongoing support.

•

The right people and environment can strengthen long-term recovery.

•

Addiction should be met with compassion, not judgment or stigma.

•

Breaking generational cycles starts with awareness and honest conversations.

•

Community, kindness, and accountability can create lasting change.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

Connect with Rob and Anissa Elsey at:

https://www.facebook.com/IntheNameofGrace/

https://inthenameofgrace.org/giving-grace/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What happens when the place you built to help others heal becomes part of your own story of becoming? As Dr. Michelle Robin approaches 60, she reflects on her journey from starting a small chiropractic practice to creating Your Wellness Connection—a space intentionally designed around healing, connection, and whole-person wellness.

In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Michelle shares why she is embracing a new chapter with faith, curiosity, and alignment, including the transition of the current YWC building. She explores the importance of knowing your why, protecting your energy, and trusting what comes next, reminding us that our purpose and impact are never confined to four walls.

Key Takeaways:

•

Intentionality can transform a space into a place of healing, connection, and belonging.

•

Transitions become more meaningful when we approach them with curiosity, faith, and trust instead of fear.

•

Knowing your why can help you protect your energy and stay focused on the people and purpose that matter most.

•

Becoming is a lifelong process of discovering who you are, what brings you joy, and what feels aligned in each season of life.

•

Your impact is not confined to a building because the culture, connection, and love you create can travel with you wherever you go. We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Your thyroid may be small, but it plays a major role in your energy, metabolism, hormones, mood, and overall health. In this conversation, Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza sit down with Dr. Alicia Johnson to discuss common thyroid conditions, why symptoms can occur even when labs appear normal, and the importance of looking beyond surface-level answers.

Together, they explore how stress, nutrition, blood sugar, hormones, vitamin D, and environmental factors can impact thyroid function. Dr. Johnson shares practical strategies for supporting thyroid health and explains how small, proactive steps can help prevent bigger health challenges in the future.

Key Takeaways:

•

Your thyroid influences every cell in your body, impacting energy, metabolism, mood, hormones, digestion, and overall health.

•

Thyroid symptoms can occur even when standard thyroid lab results appear normal, making comprehensive testing important.

•

Stress, blood sugar imbalances, environmental toxins, hormone fluctuations, and nutrient deficiencies can all affect thyroid function.

•

Prevention matters—tracking health markers early can help identify issues before they become major health challenges.

•

Simple lifestyle habits such as eating whole foods, maintaining healthy vitamin D levels, managing stress, and supporting key nutrients can improve thyroid and endocrine health.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. Alicia Johnson:

Alicia Johnson is a licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine. Her areas of expertise include medical weight loss, hormone balance, fatigue, anti-aging, and mood disorders.

Dr. Johnson has a passion for getting to know her patients and working together as a team to address even the most complicated health concerns.

Dr. Johnson utilizes natural, non-invasive therapies to treat many common conditions such as menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, depression, anxiety, obesity, infertility, low testosterone, fatigue, digestive problems, and many other chronic conditions.

Dr. Johnson is a graduate from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ. She received her acupuncture training from the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture. Prior to medical school, she received her Bachelors of Science in Life Sciences with a secondary degree in Gerontology, the study of aging. Dr. Johnson's patients are treated individually with a combination of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement recommendations, acupuncture, nutritional supplementation, botanical medicine, dietary counseling, homeopathy, and lifestyle counseling. This unique, individualized approach is effective for improving the outcome of almost any chronic health condition because many chronic diseases simply do not respond well to simple pharmaceutical treatment.

Connect with Dr. Alicia Johnson at:

https://aspirehealthkc.com/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Sometimes the symptoms we experience are not the real problem. They are messages from the body asking us to pay attention. In this reflective episode, Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza unpack the powerful lessons from their recent series on self-violation, trauma, stress, and finding your voice. Together, they explore how chronic stress, suppressed emotions, unresolved experiences, and daily habits can influence physical health, particularly thyroid function. Through personal stories and practical examples, they challenge listeners to become more curious about what their bodies may be trying to communicate.

The conversation highlights the importance of viewing health through the lens of the Four Quadrants of Wellbeing: mechanical, chemical, energetical, and psycho-spiritual. From gut health and nervous system regulation to emotional honesty and self-awareness, Dr. Robin shares how seemingly unrelated symptoms may be connected to deeper patterns in our lives. This episode serves as an invitation to slow down, listen to your body, speak your truth, and embrace a whole-person approach to healing and long-term wellbeing.

Key Takeaways:

•

Your body is constantly communicating through symptoms, and curiosity is often the first step toward healing.

•

Chronic stress, unresolved emotions, and lifestyle habits can influence thyroid health and overall wellbeing.

•

Looking at health through the Four Quadrants of Wellbeing helps uncover root causes instead of only treating symptoms.

•

Speaking your truth and becoming honest with yourself can be an important part of emotional and physical healing.

•

Small daily habits like quality sleep, movement, blood sugar balance, and nervous system regulation can significantly impact long-term health.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Peace begins by listening to what your body has been trying to tell you all along. Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza are joined by somatic therapist Brooke Seiz to explore how stress, trauma, and the nervous system shape our physical and emotional well-being. Brooke shares how reconnecting with the body through curiosity, awareness, and self-compassion can help us move beyond simply managing symptoms toward lasting healing.

Together, they discuss practical ways to slow down, regulate the nervous system, support children through emotional awareness, and embrace every part of our story with grace. This conversation is a reminder that healing doesn't require perfection. It begins with small moments of awareness that create more peace, resilience, and connection in everyday life.

Key Takeaways:

•

Your body often communicates stress, trauma, and emotional needs before your mind fully recognizes them, making body awareness an essential part of healing.

•

Practicing curiosity instead of self-criticism creates space for self-compassion and helps you respond to challenges with greater clarity and peace.

•

Slowing down, taking intentional pauses, and listening to your nervous system are powerful habits that support emotional resilience and overall well-being.

•

Parents can better support their children by first learning to recognize and regulate their own emotions, creating a healthier foundation for connection.

•

Every part of your story has served a purpose, and acknowledging those parts with grace can help you heal, find your voice, and move forward with confidence.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Brooke Seiz:

Brooke Seiz, LCPC, SEP, NTP, IFMCP is a somatic and relationship therapist and functional nutrition provider. She works with both individuals and couples, and specializes in developmental trauma, chronic pain, as well as overall nervous system regulation. As a certified functional medicine practitioner, Brooke helps women get to the root cause for their fatigue, gut issues, and hormone imbalance, addressing these root causes with somatic therapy, holistic nutrition, and counseling. She especially enjoys working with perimenopause. Brooke takes an integrative approach to help folks come into greater alignment with themselves so they can show up with more presence and fulfillment in their lives. Brooke is also trained in Touch Trauma skills and utilizes table and touch work in her practice.

As a former musical theatre performer, Brooke loves how music, theatre, and dance bring connection to self and community. She enjoys helping folks integrate play into their lives and work! Brooke teaches workshops and continuing education trainings to empower folks with strategies and choice around their health and wellness. Brooke finds purpose and great joy in supporting folks in finding embodied connection to self and community!

Connect with Brooke Seiz at:

https://www.evolvewellnesskc.com/

https://www.facebook.com/evolvewellnessandcounseling

https://www.instagram.com/brookeseiz

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-seiz

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Behind every emergency is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and unseen challenges. Karla Perez Solorzano, Executive Director of Healing Heroic Healers, shares her journey from 25 years as a frontline healthcare professional to creating a mission focused on supporting first responders through trauma, burnout, and healing.

Through an honest conversation with Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza, Karla explores the importance of whole-person care, building resilience, and creating communities that support the people who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Her story is a powerful reminder that even heroes need care, compassion, and space to heal.

Key Takeaways:

•

First responders carry invisible wounds, and prioritizing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being is essential to sustaining the people who care for our communities.

•

Whole-person healing extends beyond traditional healthcare by addressing emotional resilience, supportive relationships, and access to restorative resources.

•

Building resilience before adversity strikes creates a stronger foundation to navigate trauma, stress, and life's unexpected challenges.

•

Offering grace, compassion, and understanding to healthcare professionals acknowledges that caregivers are human and often carry burdens we cannot see.

•

Communities become healthier when individuals, organizations, and healthcare providers work together to support both those receiving care and those delivering it.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Karla Perez-Solorzano:

Karla V. Pérez-Solórzano is the founder of Healing Heroic Healers, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting frontline healthcare workers and first responders by giving them direct access to natural and holistic resources that help them refresh, refuel, and rebalance. Inspired by her own experiences with personal loss, caregiving, trauma, and service in healthcare, Karla is passionate about creating opportunities for frontline workers to restore balance, care for themselves, build deeper reservoirs of resilience and well-being, and access the support they need to thrive.

Connect with Karla Perez-Solorzano at:

https://heroichealers.org/

https://www.facebook.com/healingheroichealers/

https://www.instagram.com/healingheroichealers/

https://www.youtube.com/@HealingHeroicHealers/streams

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

One conversation can change the way you see violence, healing, and hope. Danny Ramos shares his extraordinary journey from gang life and a life sentence to becoming a leader helping create safer communities through compassion, connection, and second chances. Inspired by his mother's unwavering love and belief in him, Danny transformed his life and discovered a purpose far greater than his past.

Now serving with Uncornered, Danny explains why lasting change begins with trust, belonging, and opportunity. This powerful conversation explores breaking cycles of violence, the impact of mentorship and community, and the reminder that no one is beyond hope when someone chooses to believe in them.

Key Takeaways:

•

Healing begins when someone believes in your potential, even when you cannot see it for yourself.

•

Violence is often rooted in a lack of love, connection, and purpose, making community an essential part of lasting change.

•

Real transformation happens through trust, mentorship, and opportunities that empower people to rewrite their story.

•

Compassion and curiosity can break cycles of violence more effectively than judgment or isolation.

•

Every person has the power to create meaningful change by choosing empathy, building relationships, and believing that no life is beyond redemption.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Daniel Armando Ramos:

As External Relations Manager, Danny Ramos bridges the gap between the two distinct groups at Uncornered essential to transforming communities: active gang members and the partners who have the power to invest in them. After being involved in street violence from a young age, Danny went to prison for murder at just 16 years old. Through the 22-year sentence that he served, he discovered firsthand that the ability to be vulnerable about his past and his actions was his true turning point. By embracing this vulnerability, he realized that being a gang leader was not the only leader that he could be. Today, he models this new standard of leadership for Uncornered, leveraging his deeply rooted relationships to help others see that the skills used to lead on the streets can be entirely redirected to peace-building. He believes that lasting public safety begins with investing in people, and that relationships, not programs, are the foundation of meaningful change.

Danny's path to leadership is a powerful testament to personal transformation and unwavering commitment. Born and raised in the Kansas City area, his 22 years of incarceration became the landscape for a profound shift, with the painful loss of his mother and the grounding presence of his faith serving as the ultimate catalysts for his change. During this time, Danny committed himself to higher education, recently graduating from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). He often reflects on a quote that defined his trajectory: "The accomplishment of our goals pales in comparison to the person that we become in pursuit of them." While his initial goal was simply trying to get out of prison, his deep commitment to that pursuit entirely reshaped him, allowing him to emerge as a completely different leader and person. Today, Danny has been with Uncornered for three years and lives in the Kansas City area, where he is a devoted husband to his beautiful wife, Ana, and a proud father to twin boys.

Connect with Danny Ramos at:

https://uncornered.org/

https://www.youtube.com/

https://www.instagram.com/uncorneredus/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Healing begins the moment you choose your own voice over the noise around you. In this opening episode of the Courage to Be Whole series, Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza explore how self-awareness, faith, curiosity, and grace help us reconnect with who we are. They discuss why growth is an ongoing journey and how small, intentional choices lead to lasting transformation.

The conversation also highlights the importance of community in the healing process. From surrounding yourself with trusted people to creating moments of stillness and reflection, this episode offers practical encouragement for anyone seeking greater wholeness. It serves as a meaningful introduction to a series focused on healing ourselves so we can better serve our families, workplaces, and communities.

Key Takeaways:

•

Healing begins by learning to recognize your own voice and choosing it over the constant noise and expectations of the outside world.

•

Personal growth requires courage, consistency, and the grace to keep moving forward even when you fall back into old patterns.

•

A strong community provides the encouragement, accountability, and support needed to stay connected to your purpose and values.

•

Creating intentional moments of stillness helps you reconnect with your heart, strengthen your inner dialogue, and make decisions with greater clarity.

•

Small, intentional actions toward wholeness not only transform your own life but also create lasting impact within your family, workplace, and community.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Leadership isn't defined by a title, it's revealed through how we serve, connect, and empower others. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, we dive into her book Made for This and explore how faith, purpose, courage, and authentic relationships shape meaningful leadership. She shares why investing in people always creates lasting impact and how leading with compassion builds stronger communities.

From mentoring future leaders to navigating uncertainty with confidence, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone striving to live and lead with intention. Dr. Burns-Wallace reminds us that our greatest legacy isn't what we accomplish. It's the lives we encourage, uplift, and inspire along the way.

Key Takeaways:

•

Leadership begins with relationships, proving that genuine connection creates stronger teams, deeper trust, and more meaningful results than authority alone.

•

Leading through uncertainty requires both courage and compassion, allowing us to make difficult decisions while staying grounded in our values.

•

Everyone has unique gifts and a purpose, and embracing those talents with confidence creates lasting impact in our communities and workplaces.

•

Mentorship and sponsorship change lives by opening doors, encouraging growth, and helping others recognize potential they may not yet see in themselves.

•

The greatest legacy isn't measured by titles or achievements, but by the people we've empowered, the lives we've influenced, and the opportunities we've created for others.

Kim Newton Episode: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/pressing-pause-on-life-to-discover-your-truest-joy-with-kim-newton-season-10-ep-409/

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace:

Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace is president and chief executive officer of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, a private, nonpartisan foundation that provides access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography. Working across the public service, academic, and philanthropic sectors, Dr. Burns-Wallace carries a career commitment to enriching and strengthening equitable economic mobility. With Ewing Kauffman's vision serving as the centerpiece for the Kauffman Foundation, Dr. Burns-Wallace guided a comprehensive community engagement process to solidify the Foundation's enduring bond with Kansas City and renew its focus on college access and completion, workforce and career development, and entrepreneurship.

Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Dr. Burns-Wallace was the secretary of administration and the chief information technology officer for the State of Kansas under Governor Laura Kelly. She was the first African American to hold either cabinet seat in the state's history.

Dr. Burns-Wallace's career in higher education includes serving as vice provost at the University of Kansas, assistant vice provost at the University of Missouri, and assistant dean at Stanford University. She began her career as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of State, serving tours in China, South Africa, and in Washington D.C.

Service is a cornerstone of Dr. Burns-Wallace's journey. She was elected to the Stanford University Board of Trustees in 2020, and she has held board roles in numerous local, regional, and national organizations including the College Board and Heart of Missouri United Way. She was recently elected as a life member to the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations.

While her career has taken Dr. Burns-Wallace around the world, she has never been far from the neighborhoods of Kansas City where she was raised and drew inspiration for leading a life of service. Her most important title is mom to her son, Xavier.

Connect with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace at:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G3W8CGCH?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

https://www.kauffman.org/

https://www.facebook.com/kauffmanfdn/

https://www.instagram.com/kauffmanfdn/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kauffman-foundation/

https://www.youtube.com/user/KauffmanFoundation

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

True leadership begins with service, grows through community, and creates opportunities that last for generations. Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace shares how her family's legacy of compassion, the wisdom of her grandmother, and her Kansas City roots shaped her journey from public service to leading the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. She reflects the importance of showing up for others, leading with intention, and remembering that meaningful impact is built through relationships, not titles.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. DeAngela explores how mentorship, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and collaboration can transform communities and expand opportunity for future generations. She also offers a powerful reminder that rest is an essential part of leadership, allowing us to serve others with greater purpose, clarity, and compassion. Her story is an inspiring call to invest in people, strengthen community, and create a legacy that empowers others to thrive.

Key Takeaways:

•

The strongest leaders are those who show up consistently, invest in others, and lead with compassion.

•

Strong relationships, collaboration, and shared purpose are the foundation for building thriving communities.

•

Protecting your time and energy allows you to serve others with greater clarity, purpose, and impact.

•

Sharing knowledge, opening doors, connecting people, and amplifying others can transform lives just as powerfully as funding.

•

Creating access to education, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility helps individuals, families, and communities build a stronger future together.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace:

Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace is president and chief executive officer of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, a private, nonpartisan foundation that provides access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography. Working across the public service, academic, and philanthropic sectors, Dr. Burns-Wallace carries a career commitment to enriching and strengthening equitable economic mobility. With Ewing Kauffman's vision serving as the centerpiece for the Kauffman Foundation, Dr. Burns-Wallace guided a comprehensive community engagement process to solidify the Foundation's enduring bond with Kansas City and renew its focus on college access and completion, workforce and career development, and entrepreneurship.

Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Dr. Burns-Wallace was the secretary of administration and the chief information technology officer for the State of Kansas under Governor Laura Kelly. She was the first African American to hold either cabinet seat in the state's history.

Dr. Burns-Wallace's career in higher education includes serving as vice provost at the University of Kansas, assistant vice provost at the University of Missouri, and assistant dean at Stanford University. She began her career as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of State, serving tours in China, South Africa, and in Washington D.C.

Service is a cornerstone of Dr. Burns-Wallace's journey. She was elected to the Stanford University Board of Trustees in 2020, and she has held board roles in numerous local, regional, and national organizations including the College Board and Heart of Missouri United Way. She was recently elected as a life member to the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations.

While her career has taken Dr. Burns-Wallace around the world, she has never been far from the neighborhoods of Kansas City where she was raised and drew inspiration for leading a life of service. Her most important title is mom to her son, Xavier.

Connect with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace at:

https://www.kauffman.org/

https://www.facebook.com/kauffmanfdn/

https://www.instagram.com/kauffmanfdn/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kauffman-foundation/

https://www.youtube.com/user/KauffmanFoundation

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Good health isn't built through quick fixes—it's created through consistent daily choices, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to showing up for yourself. In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Michelle Robin sits down with longtime friend and family physician Dr. Chris Ehly to explore the evolving landscape of men's health, the importance of preventive care, and why more men are beginning to prioritize both their physical and emotional well-being. Drawing from more than three decades of medical experience, Dr. Ehly shares practical insights on building a strong foundation for lifelong health through movement, whole foods, quality sleep, and regular health screenings.

The conversation also highlights the powerful connection between mental health, community, and overall wellness. Dr. Ehly discusses how stress, loneliness, and emotional struggles often show up differently in men, and why creating safe spaces for honest conversations matters. Together, he and Dr. Robin reflect on the value of leading by example, finding joy in everyday life, and investing in relationships that support long-term well-being.

Key Takeaways:

•

Lasting wellness comes from small, consistent habits practiced over time.

•

Prioritizing sleep, movement, and whole foods creates a strong foundation for better health.

•

Preventive care and regular screenings can help identify health concerns before they become serious.

•

Meaningful relationships and community are essential components of overall well-being.

•

Mental health improves when we seek support, practice self-awareness, and stay connected to others.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. Chris Ehly:

Dr. Chris Ehly is a Midwest boy. He left to go to Stanford University for my undergraduate degree only to return to the University of Kansas for medical school and residency in Family Practice. Practiced medicine for over 30 years in Kansas City. The first 15 years were spent applying what he learned in medical school to manage disease. For the next 15 years, he investigated the ever-changing lifestyle strategies linked to being well, while researching how contemporary interventions can not only prolong life but enhance their well-being. In what he calls his third stage, He'd choosing to practice under a Direct Primary Care model in effort to share everything he continue to learn with you unencumbered by insurance or corporate medicine. Your wellness is a journey and not a destination - He'd love to partner with you on it.

Connect with Dr. Chris Ehly at:

https://www.ehlyprimarycare.com/

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

The way we care for ourselves today shapes the life we're able to live tomorrow. In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Michelle Robin and Bayleigh Soza sit down with Dr. Eric Phillips, chiropractor, business owner, husband, and father, to explore what it means to pursue health with intention. Dr. Eric shares how fatherhood transformed his perspective on wellness, shifting it from personal goals to creating a life where he can remain present, active, and connected for generations to come. Together, they discuss the power of small, consistent habits, the importance of being where your feet are, the role of community in personal growth, and why true health extends beyond the physical body. Through stories of family, resilience, and lifelong learning, this episode offers a powerful reminder that investing in your well-being isn't selfish—it's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and those you love.

Key Takeaways:

•

Your health is not just for you—it impacts how you show up for your family, relationships, and community.

•

Small, consistent habits often create greater long-term results than chasing the perfect wellness routine.

•

Being fully present and "where your feet are" helps improve both personal well-being and relationships.

•

Community, mentorship, and meaningful connections provide support, growth, and accountability throughout life.

•

Prioritizing preventive wellness today can help create a stronger, healthier, and more capable future.

We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.

About Dr. Eric Phillips:

Dr. Eric Phillips is the co-owner of Identity Integrative Health and Everyday Athlete Health Club in Overland Park, Kansas, where he helps individuals and families move better, feel stronger, and pursue long-term health through an integrated approach to chiropractic care, rehab, movement, and wellness.

But more than anything, Eric is a husband and father of two who is deeply passionate about helping people live fully and stay present for the moments that matter most. His work and message center around health not just as a way to avoid pain, but as a foundation for energy, connection, purpose, and longevity.

Through both his clinic and personal platform, Eric speaks openly about fatherhood, balance, mental and physical health, and the importance of building a life you can fully participate in — now and for years to come.

Connect with Dr. Eric Phillips at:

https://identityih.com/

https://www.everydayathletehc.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@identitychiropractic

Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at: https://smallchangesbigshifts.com/

hello@smallchangesbigshifts.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts/

https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts

https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco

Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.