Troy Talks

Afsha Butt, a woman of color in the male-dominated finance industry, shares her incredible journey on the Troy Talks podcast. From overcoming prejudice to forming partnerships and educating young professionals, Afsha's story will leave you inspired and wanting to learn more. But just when everything seems to be going well, a shocking turn of events leaves Afsha in a difficult situation. What will she do next? Don't miss this gripping episode.

My special guest is Afsha Butt

Afsha Butt is a trailblazing CEO and founder of Wealthverse, a financial technology company. With a distinguished record in the financial services sector, she is an award-winning consultant and wealth strategist. Afsha is passionate about empowering established professionals to unlock their untapped financial potential through intelligent money management and mindset development. As a woman of color in the finance industry, Afsha has overcome numerous challenges and has become a shining example of success. Her expertise and unbiased approach to investing have earned her recognition and respect in the industry. With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Afsha is dedicated to helping women of color navigate the obstacles they may face and thrive in their finance careers.

I realized, I'm not just doing this to learn what they did. I'm also doing this to learn what I don't want to do and what I'm going to do differently. - Afsha Butt

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain insights from Afsha Butt's career journey and discover the steps she took to succeed in the finance industry.

• Learn about the specific challenges faced by women in finance and discover strategies to overcome them.

• Understand the importance of financial education for young professionals and learn how it can set you up for success in your career.

• Discover practical strategies for overcoming prejudice in the workplace and creating a more inclusive environment.

• Gain valuable tips and insights on building a successful financial planning company and take your career to the next level.

Challenges Faced by Women in Finance
As a woman and a minority, Afsha Butt had to navigate a largely male-dominated financial industry. Nevertheless, despite the challenges and occasional prejudice she faced, her determination allowed her to overachieve and establish herself as an eminent financial advisor. Butt's story highlights the struggles women in finance face, but also the immense potential and resilience that can lead to success against all odds.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Wealthverse's website at www.wealthverse.ca to learn more about their financial technology solutions and services.

• Explore the range of intelligent money management tools offered by Wealthverse to optimize your financial potential and bridge the gap between your current possessions and desired lifestyle.

• Book a consultation with Afsha Butt to receive personalized guidance and expertise in wealth management, investing, and profile mindset development.

• Connect with Afsha Butt on LinkedIn to expand your professional network and stay connected with her latest updates and industry insights.

If you're feeling the frustration of constantly putting in extra hours, sacrificing your personal life, and still not getting the promotions or recognition you deserve, then you are not alone! Many professionals find themselves stuck in this cycle, wondering why their hard work isn't paying off.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Enhance your career resilience by learning effective strategies to bounce back from setbacks and challenges in the workplace.

• Build a supportive environment at work by discovering practical tips to foster teamwork, collaboration, and positive communication.

• Cultivate a growth mindset to navigate career setbacks and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.

• Unlock the power of networking and building relationships to expand your professional network and create new opportunities for career advancement.

• Prioritize self-care and well-being in your careers with actionable strategies to maintain a healthy work-life balance and enhance overall job satisfaction.

My special guest is Helen Ofosu

Dr. Helen Ofosu is an expert in industrial and organizational psychology with over 20 years of experience in the field. As a career and executive coach, she specializes in assessing and developing leadership skills, as well as navigating workplace challenges such as bullying, harassment, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Dr. Helen Ofosu founded the I O Advisory Services in 2012, offering executive and career coaching, HR consulting, and speaking engagements. Her expertise in psychology and business allows her to provide practical insights and strategies for professionals seeking to enhance their career resilience and navigate workplace challenges.

With her upcoming book, "How to Be Resilient in Your Career: Facing Up to Barriers at Work," Dr. Helen Ofosu continues to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and thrive in their professional lives.

Connect with Dr. Helen here: 

Have you ever heard these myths about Small Business Administration (SBA) loans for established businesses?

Myth 1: SBA loans are only for startups.

Myth 2: SBA loans are too complicated and time-consuming to apply for. Myth 3: SBA loans are only for certain types of businesses.

In this episode, our guest, Deb Curtis, will debunk these myths and share the truth about SBA loans for women and minority small business owners.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover hidden aspects of gender bias in the finance industry.

• Appreciate the triumph of tenacity and hands-on experience over formal education.

• Gain insights into how SBA loans can foster the growth of established businesses.

• Learn the significant role of diversity and inclusion in successful business ownership.

• Discover the power of self-belief and the potential in exploring diverse opportunities.

My special guest is Deb Curtis

Rising from humble beginnings, Deb Curtis is a beacon of inspiration to any budding entrepreneur.

She is the founder of Curtis Small Business Finance Solutions, where she provides specialized consultancy in business ownership bank finance transactions.

As a woman in a male-dominated sector, Deb made a commendable stride, becoming a trailblazer for countless women in corporate settings.

She wears her relentless grit alongside her professional acumen gracefully, indicating that professional success is not solely tied to academic degrees.

Connect with Deb here: 

Unveiling the Secrets: Tina Houchins on Increasing Homeownership in Underserved Communities

If you're feeling frustrated and helpless because your efforts to increase homeownership rates in underserved communities are falling short, then you are not alone! Despite your best intentions, offering traditional mortgage products and outreach programs may not be enough to bridge the homeownership gap. Instead, potential buyers from marginalized racial and ethnic groups face systemic barriers such as discriminatory lending practices, lack of affordable housing options, and limited access to resources and information.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the essential role financial literacy plays specifically in the military, and how mastering it can lead to better fiscal decisions.

• Become equipped with practical tips to bolster your credit score and open doors to financial possibilities.

• Embark on a journey of learning how to reclaim homeownership following financial missteps like bankruptcy or foreclosure.

• Confront the disparities in homeownership across different racial and ethnic groups and learn why these barriers exist.

• Demystify the home buying process by comprehending the roles of mortgage loan officers and realtors in finding and financing your dream home.

My special guest is Tina Houchins

Today’s guest is Tina Houchins, an accomplished Air Force veteran who, after her retirement, engaged in nurturing financial literacy. Always being drawn to service, Tina turned her focus on financial education, recognizing it as a critical aspect of individual and community growth.

Tina now heads the Houchin Financial Group where she plays a pivotal role in creating mortgage strategies that synchronize with the specific circumstances of her clientele. Her broad experience and genuine aspiration to help have enabled her to navigate clients through the mortgage process effectively and efficiently.

Key Takeaways

In the world of sales, whoever is talking is buying. Discover the power of active listening and emotional engagement with sales expert Joe Pallo. But what will happen when the main character finds themselves in a sales pitch where they can't get a word in? Stay tuned to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the paramount role of emotions in driving sales.

• Equip yourself with the right questions to stir up emotional ties.

• Grasp the essence of diagnosing client needs before unveiling your sales pitch.

• Recognize the significance of active listening in turning the sales conversation in your favor.

• Gain the skills to pave the way for the progression of the sales process.

My special guest is Joe Pallo

From financial services to agriculture, Joe Pallo's sales expertise has led him to the discovery of a unique universal truth that's seen him excel across industries. With over a million dollars in sales under his belt, Joe has proven that emotional engagement is as pivotal to sales success as logical reasoning. Yet, his most significant achievement is the coaching and mentoring he provides. His commitment to sharing his knowledge has enabled countless professionals to achieve success and top producer status.

On this episode of Troy Holt, we have a captivating interview with Johnathan K Drayton. Our discussion revolves around the power of God in controlling nature and orchestrating events for a greater purpose. We delve into biblical stories, such as Joseph's time in jail and Gideon's encounters with signs and guidance from God.

Tune in to hear about the importance of trust in the Lord during difficult circumstances and the role of processes in revealing God's involvement in the details.

Our conversation also touches on the concept of God's presence in times of trouble and the permanent security Christians have in their salvation. Join us as we explore the journey of building a relationship with God, the transformative power of following Christ, and the significance of faith.

We also dive into the complexities of understanding and interpreting scripture in the 21st century. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode filled with profound insights and perspectives on faith, trust, and the relevance of ancient texts.

Some of things that we discussed:

- God's control over nature and His ability to do extraordinary things

- Joseph and his brothers as an example of God's orchestration for a greater purpose

- Trusting in the Lord during difficult circumstances

- Recognizing God's involvement in the details through processes

- The story of Gideon as another example of God's signs and guidance

- God's presence in times of trouble

Connect with Johnathan:

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to post consistently on social media, engage with your audience, and network with potential clients in order to build relationships and drive business success. But despite your efforts, you're not seeing the results you desire. The pain of wasted time and energy, coupled with the frustration of not seeing your business grow, is all too real. It's time to break free from ineffective actions and discover the power of social media done right. Join us as we unveil the secrets of leveraging social proof, podcasting, Instagram, and LinkedIn to forge genuine connections, skyrocket your credibility, and propel your business to new heights.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unearth the hidden power of social proof in boosting your credibility and building trust within your audience.

• Learn how podcasting can be used as a powerful tool for business growth and content generation.

• Get the lowdown on utilizing Instagram for influential social media marketing practices.

• Demystify the strategy on LinkedIn: how to build authentic rapport without turning people off with spammy messages.

• Absorb the knack of tapping into social media to establish strong connections and spur business progress.

My special guest is Katie Brinkley

Meet Katie Brinkley, the woman at the helm of Next Step Social Communications, a social media agency based in Littleton, Colorado. Rooted in her 17 years of experience, Katie has cultured a unique approach toward social media optimization. Katie's strength lies in teaching entrepreneurs within the home industry about the potential of social media as a catalyst for genuine interactions, increased leads, and heightened sales. Her innovative coaching style combined with a notable passion aids her in breathing life back into the stagnant practices of social media, creating natural, organic growth for her clients.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Follow Katie Brinkley on Instagram and LinkedIn.

• Check out Katie's social media agency, Next Step Social Communications.

• Visit Katie's website, katybrinkley.com, to learn more about her and her services.

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by your employees' inability to deliver exceptional customer experiences, despite your efforts to improve, then you are not alone! Despite investing in customer service training, implementing new procedures, and providing incentives, your team may still be struggling to meet customer expectations. Instead of the desired result of improved customer satisfaction and loyalty, you may be experiencing decreased customer retention, negative online reviews, and missed opportunities for upselling. It's time to address this pain and find effective strategies to empower your employees for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore why customer satisfaction is the keystone to successful business.

• Learn how empowering your team can create exceptional customer experiences.

• Discover the pivotal role HR plays in fostering employee engagement and customer satisfaction.

• Grasp the delicate balance between supporting employees and maintaining standardized company rules.

• Understand the profound impact of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging on your organization’s health.

My special guest is Beverly Hathorn

We introduce Beverly Hathorn, a passionate customer satisfaction advocate with an impressive 25-year career trajectory in the corporate world. Starting out as a bank teller and later transitioning to more complex roles such as leading labour relations for an organization of 60,000 employees, Beverly's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Currently at the helm of Strategic HR Consultants, her unwavering commitment to creating high-functioning teams and facilitating outstanding customer experiences has remained core to her philosophy. As she continues to enhance productivity and collaboration, Beverly stays true to her vision — a customer-first culture.

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #65 The Role of Building Authentic Relationships in Podcasting w/Vinnie Potestivo

If you're feeling frustrated with your lack of success in podcasting despite putting in a lot of effort and following all the advice you can find online, then you are not alone! Many aspiring podcasters struggle to gain traction and build a loyal audience. The problem often lies in a lack of authenticity and genuine connection with listeners. If you're more focused on chasing downloads and sponsorships than on building meaningful relationships with your audience, you'll likely struggle to stand out in an already saturated market. It's time to prioritize authenticity and relationship-building as key components of your podcasting strategy.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain valuable insights from industry professionals to elevate your media endeavors.

• Discover the significance of genuine connections and how they contribute to your podcast's success.

• Learn to identify opportunities and harness the courage to take calculated risks.

• Explore the power of narrative in driving social transformation.

• Uncover methods to enhance your content's visibility and shareability.

Meet Vinnie Potestivo, an Emmy Award-winning media advisor with an incredible track record of helping clients leverage their media exposure to find fame and make an impact. As the editor-in-chief of I Have A Podcast, Vinnie is dedicated to discovering and amplifying the voices of independent podcasters worldwide. With a rich history of working with big names like Beyonce, Mandy Moore, and Ashton Kutcher, Vinnie's experience and insights into the importance of authenticity and building relationships in podcasting are unmatched.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #64 Entrepreneurial Mindset: Lessons & Wisdom from my special guest Khalil Stultz

Meet Khalil Stultz, a savvy investor and growth consultant with a passion for helping businesses achieve their full potential. With a strong background in sales, marketing, and business development, Khalil utilizes his unique skill set to create strategic growth plans for entrepreneurs looking to elevate their businesses. In his spare time, Khalil loves to explore his creative side as a professional saxophonist, which has taught him firsthand the importance of preparation, improvisation, and flexibility - three key qualities that he brings to his work in the business world. Tune in as Khalil shares his top insights on entrepreneurship and business success.

From College Saxophone Player to Successful Entrepreneur: The Unlikely Journey of Khalil Stultz. This inspiring story takes unexpected twists and turns, highlighting the power of resilience and adaptability. Khalil's journey from music to business growth consulting is a testament to the fact that success can come from unexpected places. Along the way, he discovered the importance of being prepared for the unknown and constantly seeking knowledge. But that's not all. Want to know the surprising secret to Khalil's success? Tune in to find out.

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with the lack of growth in your business, despite putting in countless hours and effort, then you are not alone! Many entrepreneurs find themselves stuck in a cycle of trying different strategies and tactics, only to see minimal results. It can be disheartening to see your competitors thriving while you struggle to make progress. But in this podcast episode, Khalil Stoltz shares practical tips and strategies that can help you break out of this cycle and achieve the growth and success you desire.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover crucial insights on entrepreneurship and business success for personal growth.

• Uncover effective learning techniques to stay ahead in your industry.

• Recognize the power of feedback and data for exponential growth in business.

• Explore the impact of investing in employee morale and development for a robust team.

• Learn the significance of the 80/20 principle and the role of prioritizing leadership in attaining business growth.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Connect with Khalil Stokes for investment opportunities or growth consulting services.

• Research and study your niche, craft, and market to effectively speak their language for higher sales and marketing success.

• Read books, listen to podcasts from entrepreneurs, and seek mentorships or consultants to stay ahead of the curve in your business endeavors.

• Make discomfort the norm and be willing to improvise by learning how you learn and exposing yourself to higher levels of your craft or skill set.

• Develop flexibility and fluidity in execution by being nimble in response and preparation for effective problem-solving and execution.

"Being prepared isn't just about making yourself ready for known scenarios or known challenges. Being prepared is also about, again, being ready to effectively tackle the unknowns as well." Khalil Stultz

Connect with Khalil here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #63 Mastering the Seven Deadly Sins of Leadership with Jennifer Thornton

Do you want to create a healthy and productive work environment where your team can thrive? Are you tired of the negative impact that poor leadership can have on your team's morale and productivity? Look no further, because I have the solution to help you achieve a workplace culture that fosters growth and success. As a leadership expert, I will share with you the secrets to avoiding the seven deadly sins of leadership that can hinder your progress. By implementing these strategies, you will see improved leadership skills and a positive workplace culture that will benefit both you and your team. Together, let's create a workplace environment that inspires success!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Delve into the secrets behind the marriage of strong leadership & learning culture.

• Decipher the hidden traps within The Seven Deadly Sins of Leadership.

• Master the art of fostering a growth mindset for organizational success.

• Learn to dodge the talent cliff with a well-crafted talent strategy.

• Understand the keys to inspiring & empowering millennials at work.

My special guest is Jennifer Thornton

Get to know Jennifer Thornton who, with over two decades of experience in HR, has dedicated her career to honing her expertise in leadership development coaching. Jennifer's unique approach combines her vast knowledge of brain science with the more traditional components of effective leadership, providing invaluable insights on the topic of The Seven Deadly Sins of Leadership. By looking beyond conventional wisdom, Jennifer guides leaders to recognize their own pitfalls and create a positive work environment, where personal and team development can flourish. Jennifer's innovative practices are regularly helping leaders to transform their skills for success.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Jennifer Thornton's website, 304coaching.com, to learn more about her leadership development coaching services.

• Check out Jennifer Thornton's podcast appearances to hear her insights on leadership and HR.

• Consider booking Jennifer Thornton as a speaker for your next event to inspire and educate your team on effective leadership.

The Seven Deadly Sins of Leadership
Leaders who wish to improve their skills and create a positive workplace culture should be aware of the Seven Deadly Sins of Leadership. These sins include a lack of self-awareness, lack of empathy, being addicted to being right, fear of feedback, failing to develop others, lacking a learning mindset, and neglecting relationships. By avoiding these pitfalls, leaders can foster an environment of growth and collaboration, ultimately leading to a more successful organization. In the episode, Jennifer Thornton identified these common leadership pitfalls and discussed how they can negatively impact an organization. She urged leaders to prioritize the greater good of the company over individual departmental needs and stressed the importance of fostering a learning culture to keep employees engaged and encourage constant growth. By being aware of these sins, leaders can work to develop their self-awareness and empathy and create an environment of open communication and professional development.

Connect with Jennifer here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #62 Sophia Lovasz Shares Her Waymo Adventures and Social Media Success

My special guest is Sophia Lovasz

Say hello to Sophia Lovasz, Sophia is the Founder and CEO of Simply Visibility, where she helps students, employees, and entrepreneurs use social media to attract opportunities so they don’t have to chase them. She believes that finding your voice is the key to unlocking your value and building credibility in your community and industry. She is a seasoned retail leader with over 20 years of experience running brick-and-mortar operations and e-commerce for Follett Higher Education on college campuses. She spent her last year at Follett heading up social media strategy for Follett’s 1200 college campus stores. 

She is an  Arizona-based content creator who's made quite a splash with her experiences in Waymo, Google's autonomous car project. As a passenger in one of these self-driving vehicles, Sophia has captured the attention of the media, including CNN and Mashable, as well as the co-CEO of Waymo, who even joined her for a ride! But Sophia doesn't just share her rides with the world; she also creates content on various topics such as gardening, uplifting videos, and entrepreneurial insights. With her conversational and friendly approach, she's a fantastic person to learn from about the future of transportation and online content creation.

This is Sophia Lovasz's story:

It was an ordinary day for Sophia Lovasz when she stumbled upon Waymo's cutting-edge autonomous taxi service. With the app in hand and curiosity in her heart, Sophia embarked on her first solo ride, documenting the experience to share with the world. Unexpectedly, her video went viral on TikTok, and she found herself even more motivated to promote this groundbreaking technology. By continuously sharing her rides on various social media platforms, Sophia's videos not only educated the public about the potential of autonomous vehicles but also garnered attention from Waymo itself. Her dedication led to an incredible opportunity to meet the co-CEO of Waymo, further solidifying her belief in the advantages of the technology

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the perks of traveling in a Waymo autonomous car and how it can change your daily commute.

• Unlock social media secrets to create engaging content and establish a strong personal brand.

• Conquer imposter syndrome and gain the confidence to shine on camera.

• Grasp the significance of authenticity and relatability in crafting compelling content.

• Learn how to turn your smartphone into a powerful tool for content creation and monetization.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Meet Steve Buzogany, the Referral Guy and Appreciation Advocate. He reveals the secret to building a successful career without working too hard. But just as he's about to share his ultimate gifting strategy, the interview abruptly ends, leaving the audience wondering what could happen next.

Start loving on your people.

My special guest is Steve Buzogany

Meet Steve Buzogany, the creative mind behind Appreciation Advocate. Having successfully sold nearly $100 million worth of real estate, Steve knows a thing or two about building genuine relationships with clients. By focusing on meaningful connections, he was able to achieve success while working just three to four days a week. Now, Steve is dedicated to helping other small business owners stand out, foster deep relationships, and increase their income – all while having fun and avoiding burnout.

This is Steve Buzogany 's story:

Once a real estate agent, Steve Buzogany discovered the power of focusing on the relationship rather than the transaction. Mentored by Brian Buffini, Steve quickly became known as the "referral guy" around his office. He found that by using personalized gifting strategies, he could build lasting connections with his clients and receive more referrals. However, he realized that many agents didn't want to put in the extra effort for these customized gifts, leading him to create Appreciation Advocate.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Nurture your clientele by implementing bespoke gifting strategies.

• Shape a positive image and unambiguous values using the power of considered gifting.

• Enhance your gifting approach to create exceptional experiences for clients.

• Showcase conscious gratitude through acts of impactful generosity towards others.

• Drive business growth by prioritizing lasting connections over financial ambitions.

The Six Criteria for Great Gifts
To maximize the impact of client gifts, it's crucial to adhere to specific criteria that ensure a gift resonates with recipients on an emotional level. The six criteria include quality, personalization, emotional impact, staying power, building connection, and focusing on the recipient rather than the giver. As discussed by Steve Buzogany, traditional corporate gifts like food baskets, gift cards, and branded swag bags often fall short of creating lasting impressions. By focusing on the six criteria presented during the interview, businesses can enhance their gifting approach and create memorable experiences that foster strong relationships with clients.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Sign up as a client of Appreciation Advocate to receive personalized and high-quality gift recommendations for your top 10-25 clients.

• Use the six criteria provided by Appreciation Advocate to determine which gifts are eligible for sending.

• Consider gifting options beyond traditional items like chocolates or gift cards, and opt for personalized and practical items like custom-engraved Cutco knives or watercolor paintings of a client's new home.

• Consider using Appreciation Advocate's services for your small business to quickly stand out and increase referrals while building meaningful relationships.

Connect with Steve here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #60 The Importance of Analyzing Gross Margins for Business Owners w/Terrell Turner, CPA.

Terrell Turner, CPA is the co-founder and fractional CFO of the TLTurner Group. He is the guy who’s concerned about how businesses are going to survive and grow in this new business world. He hosts a show, called Business Talk Library, which examines a wide range of problems and solutions affecting business today. He uses his experience from Fortune 500 companies to consult with start-up businesses and mid-size companies.  It’s his job to start the conversation on what their goals are. Together, they design a course of action to achieve them.

On this episode of Troy Talks, the importance of understanding a business's financial situation is discussed, including analyzing gross margins to identify high and low-margin products. By conducting a gross margin analysis, businesses can identify ways to reduce costs and improve profitability. 

The podcast also encourages business owners to view their financials like a movie and to recognize that running a business is more than just doing what they love. In addition, the podcast offers an interview series where founders and entrepreneurs from other businesses share their journeys, accomplishments, and mistakes. 

Listeners can learn from these interviews and either avoid making similar mistakes or implement successful strategies. The podcast editor also shares insights from their experiences in finance and accounting while working with other companies, recognizing the importance of outsourcing tasks like hiring a virtual assistant. Tune in for more tips on how to take your business to the next level.

Terrell covered Conducting a Gross Margin Analysis with the following:

• Identifying ways to reduce costs and improve profitability

• Viewing financials like a movie

• Expenses must contribute to serving or finding customers or improving the product
  

Connect with Terrell here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #59 Women and Financial Protections: Advice for Moms and Caregivers w/Margaret Loperena

On this episode of Troy Talks, you will hear about the importance of inheritance planning for special needs children and the creation of an emergency fund.

We are joined by Margaret Laparena, a licensed independent insurance professional, who will discuss how protection and proper planning are vital to financial security. Margaret will offer a free book that provides education and knowledge on building wealth and generating cash flow. The episode will also feature tips from Margaret on working with special needs provisions and the importance of self-education and mentorship. Tune in to hear about how planning and preparation can make all the difference in securing a positive financial future.

Margaret Laparena is a licensed independent insurance professional with over 30 years of experience in the financial service industry. She has worked as an admission coordinator for a private health facility for six years. She is currently working with Virtual Financial Group, providing financial literacy.

Topics covered:

• The importance of discussing protection, especially for women who have children, is highlighted.
• Creating an emergency fund is emphasized, advising to save more than just 3-6 months due to unforeseen circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic. Margaret is offering a free book to listeners who reach out to her.
• Having good mentors and constant education is advised to be taken seriously in the field.
• When dealing with special needs provisions, it is important to work with financial professionals and lawyers.

Connect with Margaret here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #58 Transforming Trauma into Strength: Insights from Therapist Elizabeth Louis

If you're feeling hopeless and defeated because you've tried numerous therapies that haven't been effective in healing your trauma, then you are not alone!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Appreciate the critical role a suitable therapist or coach can play in your personal development.

• Gain insights into facing and overcoming trauma for improved mental health.

• Realize the indelible impact of mindset on mental health and how to make it work for you.

• Understand the link between positive psychology, neuroscience, and their contributions to therapeutic practices.

• Take charge of your experiences and thoughts, transforming them into a force for good in your life.

My special guest is Elizabeth Louis

Introducing Elizabeth Louis, a therapist who has made it her life's mission to assist others in overcoming trauma and achieving personal growth. Elizabeth's own experiences with hardships have shaped her into the driven and compassionate professional she is today. As a neuro psychotherapy specialist, she understands the importance of studying the brain and its role in creating lasting change. Her approach to therapy focuses on building genuine connections, fostering empathy, and providing a warm and supportive environment for her clients. Elizabeth's dedication to understanding and overcoming trauma is evident in her work, making her a great resource for this topic

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #57 Isabella Sanchez Castañeda: Building Intimacy & Loyalty in Podcasting.

If you're feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the lack of progress despite trying to build audience loyalty through authenticity, intimacy, and experimentation, then you are not alone!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Embrace changes and redefine yourself in both business and marketing environments.

• Develop a true sense of curiosity and enhance listening skills crucial for podcast interviews.

• Overcome the fear of judgment that hinders successful content creation.

• Utilize the power of podcasts to create a strong connection and loyalty with your audience.

• Recognize the significance of experimentation and adaptability in your marketing strategies.

My special guest is Isabella Sanchez Castañeda

Meet Isabella Sanchez Castañeda, a gifted marketer and podcast expert who assists entrepreneurs in sharing their impact through innovative marketing techniques and podcast production. Isabella Sanchez Castañeda is the CEO and founder of Isa Media Inc a digital marketing agency focused on the production and strategy of high-converting podcasts for entrepreneurs. She graduated in 2020 from Villanova University with a degree in communication specializing in journalism.

Her journalism background has provided her with valuable skills that have translated seamlessly into her marketing and podcasting expertise. As a millennial making a difference in the business world, Isabella is driven to help others share their stories and build loyal audiences through her unique approach to podcasting and marketing.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

After helping his clients transition from employer-based plans to individually owned ones, Sarry Ibrahim stumbled upon a revolutionary way to help them build wealth and achieve financial freedom - a way no one saw coming. Discovering the power of "The Bank on Yourself Revolution" by Pamela Yellen, Sarry committed to debunking the myths and guiding his clients towards a tax-free retirement. But what could this unexpected twist be?

Become your own source of financing, for you to grow tax-free retirement and other benefits.

My special guest is Sarry Ibrahim

Introducing Sarry Ibrahim, a financial expert specializing in cash value growth and tax-free retirement strategies. Sarry, the founder of Financial Asset Protection, is dedicated to helping high-net-worth individuals secure their retirement accounts, real estate properties, and businesses from market failures and other risks. With an MBA from Keller and experience at renowned companies like Blue Cross, Allstate Insurance, and Cigna, Sarry brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. His unique approach emphasizes both safety and accessibility for clients' money, making him a valuable resource for those looking to optimize their financial strategies.

This is Sarry Ibrahim's story:

Sarry Ibrahim was working with clients, helping them transition from employer-based plans to individually owned ones when one of them asked for help with a life insurance policy that builds cash value. Intrigued by the concept, Sarry set out on a quest for knowledge and stumbled upon the book "The Bank on Yourself Revolution" by Pamela Yellen. As he delved into the concept of infinite banking and learned how it could benefit people in various financial situations, Sarry realized the potential it held for his clients. With a newfound passion, Sarry became a Bank on Yourself professional, focusing on helping small business owners, real estate investors, and full-time employees use this strategy to become their own banker.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the potential of infinite banking with whole life insurance policies.

• Uncover effective cash value growth and tax-free retirement strategies.

• Develop personal finance management skills through a banking mindset.

• Understand the differences between term life insurance and whole life insurance.

• Recognize the importance of collaborating with knowledgeable financial advisors.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Read the book The Bank on Yourself Revolution by Pamela Yellen to learn more about the infinite banking concept and how to utilize cash value whole life insurance for self-banking purposes.

• Consult with a trusted and competent financial advisor who specializes in cash value whole life insurance for self-banking purposes to ensure proper policy structuring and to fully understand the benefits of incorporating this strategy into your financial planning.

• Consider incorporating infinite banking into your financial planning if you are a small business owner, real estate investor, or full-time employee looking to become your own source of financing and grow a tax-free retirement.

• Ensure that the whole life insurance policy you choose aligns with your objectives and comes from a mutually owned insurance company, has a paid-up additions rider, is a non-direct recognition company, and is a whole life insurance policy.

Connect with Sarry Ibrahim here:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #55 Breaking Financial Curses with Markia Brown: Tips for Better Credit

After facing a string of hardships, Markia Brown found herself in a financially abusive relationship - or so she thought. Little did she know, this experience would lead her to become an advocate for financial literacy, helping others break free from the chains of debt and build a strong financial future.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Conquer credit misconceptions for a stronger grasp on personal finances.

• Dispel personal finance myths that have emerged during the pandemic.

• Adapt to TikTok as a unique platform for financial education and community nurturing.

• Enhance financial industry representation for a more relatable and trustworthy experience.

• Stay tuned for Marquia Brown's future endeavors in driving financial literacy and empowerment.

My special guest is Markia Brown

Markia Brown, a LA-based influencer and freelance writer, has dedicated her life to breaking generational curses and transforming the way young adults approach personal finance. With a military background and a wealth of experience in various fields, she has amassed over 204,000 followers on TikTok by utilizing her humor, relatability, and expertise. As a retired military veteran and holder of CFEI and RFA designations, Markia understands the challenges many young people face and is committed to helping them overcome these obstacles.

Contact info:

Go grab your headphones or your Bluetooth headset and listen to Troy Talks Episode #54 Unlocking the Infinite Banking Concept with Brandon Neely.

When Brandon Neely opened his coffee shop to make a positive difference, he never expected to find a life-changing solution to his financial woes in the form of an unexpected twist - the infinite banking concept. Little did he know, the concept would unlock unprecedented security, stability, and wealth, completely transforming his path in life.

“Experience is so much more powerful than experimentation when it comes to wealth-building and mitigating the risk of failure.” - Brandon Neely

My special guest is Brandon Neely

Meet Brandon Neely, a dedicated entrepreneur with a passion for helping others build wealth through unique financial strategies. 

As a former coffee shop owner, Brandon discovered the power of the Infinite Banking concept and has since dedicated himself to helping others navigate the world of life insurance and annuities. 

He strongly believes in the power of experiential knowledge and has firsthand experience in the trials and successes of business ownership. 

With his wife and business partner, Amanda, he co-hosts the Wealth Wisdom Financial podcast, where they share their insights and strategies for both personal finance and business profitability.

This is Brandon Neely's story:

Brandon Neely, a passionate entrepreneur, dove headfirst into the world of specialty coffee with the goal of making a positive difference. Overflow, his coffee shop, aimed to provide value to impoverished coffee-growing communities. However, he found himself struggling to pay himself fairly and ensure his own financial security. His mentor introduced him to a documentary called "Banking With Life," which illuminated the infinite banking concept: using life insurance and annuities to create wealth. As a business owner, Brandon saw the value in having safety and stability and began saving $400 a month into life insurance policies. This not only helped him take care of high-interest debt but also enabled him to handle emergencies like a flood at his coffee shop.

In this episode, you will be able to: 

1. Tackle entrepreneurship obstacles by building a cooperative team and managing finances effectively. 

2. Utilize the Profit First method to improve cash flow management and self-compensation. 

3. Grasp the concept of Infinite Banking and the advantages of life insurance and annuities. 

4. Explore the Still Method, a custom-made and intentional approach to financial planning. 

5. Construct a solid financial base through smart debt repayment and consistent savings efforts.

Brandon's Contact Info:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #52 Navigating Grief: Kim Hamer's Journey from Resilience to Inspiration with Author Kim Hamer.

After unexpectedly losing her husband, Kim Hamer must rely on her unwavering faith and determined resilience to help her children confront their grief, lean on their community and rebuild their lives.

"I learned that for me, grief in the second year was way challenging. In the first year, I was always focused on getting past the first. I had the notion that at some point I would count the day and I wouldn't burst out in tears that he was gone. That's really what I mean by resilience - having the faith, the idea, the notion that at some point you're going to be at a better place. You just don't know when, and you don't

Kim Hamer is an HR consultant and sought-after public speaker who launched 100 Acts of Love, a consultancy that provides tools to help leaders increase team productivity, trust, and engagement when cancer affects a team member. She is also the author of 100 Acts of Love, a Girlfriend's Guide to Loving Your Friend Through Cancer or Loss.

Kim Hamer experienced the tragic loss of her husband at the young age of 44. She was grateful to have been able to watch him take his last breath, but soon realized that most people don't know what to say or do in the face of death, so they back away. Kim learned that it was only through the support of her community that she was able to keep taking the small steps of resilience and faith needed to get through the days. She also taught her children to be resilient by showing them her own grief and enrolling them in support groups. Kim now hopes to spread her understanding that in times of tragedy, it is important to be witnessed and that even small gestures of love can make a difference.

In this episode, you will learn the following:
1. How to be resilient in times of grief and loss
2. The reality of grief beyond the three-month mark
3. The importance of support networks in times of grief and trauma.

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #51 DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) with C-Suite Executive, Speaker, & Author Victoria Pelletier

In this episode Victoria shares with us:

• We are more than our job title and the company we work for.
• Why do some people get triggered by the word “privilege”.
• What are the biggest mistakes that companies make in implementing diversity in the workplace and much more?

🗣 Victoria is a 20+ year Corporate Executive and Board Director – she is currently a Managing Director at Accenture. Nicknamed the “Turn Around Queen” by former colleagues and employers, Victoria inspires and empowers her team and clients to change mindsets and drive growth in business, leadership, and culture.

🗣As someone who does not subscribe to the status quo, she is always ready for new challenges becoming one of the youngest Chief Operating Officers at the age of 24, a president by 35, and a CEO by age 41.

🗣Victoria was recognized as a Top 50 Business Leader in Technology by Insight Magazine in 2021 and a Mentor of the Year by Women in Communications & Technology in 2020. HSBC bank awarded her the Diversity & Inclusion in Innovation award in 2019 and she was IBM’s #1 Global Social Seller ranked by LinkedIn in 2019and 2020 (and soon you will see her named to top Business Leaders in Technology by CIOLook Magazine)

🗣As a prolific motivational and inspirational speaker, Victoria has delivered keynotes discussing the importance of personal branding and its impact on professional growth; being an empathetic leader in empowering employees; the power of DEI on corporate cultures, and building a life of resilience.

Contact info:

Social Platforms

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #50 Growing the Grief with the CEO of the Event Room LaShana Douville

In this episode LaShana shares with us:

• Survivor's Remorse
• Understanding the difference between love and co-dependency
• How it feels to be labeled as “the angry black woman.”

🗣️ Lashana Douville is a Native of New Orleans, Louisiana, and is a local military Gold Star spouse.

🗣️ She has a background in social work and Criminal Justice; however, she has always had a creative passion for hosting and coordinating events such as weddings, showers, and parties for her close friends and relatives.

🗣️ After losing her husband of 14 years in 2011 to the war in Afghanistan, she decided to beat the odds and turn tragedy into triumph. LaShana and her children have been featured on the Steve Harvey Talk Show in 2015, where she was nominated Mom of the Year.

🗣️ It was there that she spoke about the loss and how it changed their world. LaShana stepped out on Faith, followed her heart, and became the sole owner and operator of The Event Room which has allowed her to pour into several families during some of the most rewarding times in their lives.

🗣️ LaShana is truly inspired by her Louisiana upbringing and the culture and diversity of her hometown. LaShana has a passion for hospitality and service and building relationships with her customers keeps her going.

🗣️ Lashana is a member of several community organizations, and she has a passion to recognize those who may not always have the opportunity to be showcased on other platforms.

🗣️ When she is not planning fabulous events, you can find her spending time with her family, shopping, catching up with a good book or movie or relaxing on the beach, while keeping a committed daily walk in her faith

Contact info:

In this episode Jules shares with us:

• ✅ The difference between opera & theatre.
• ✅ How she got the lead role in The Sound of Music on the Broadway National Tour at the age of 23.
• ✅ How to be thoughtful in an easy and less expensive way.
• ✅ When people laugh, they learn and they remember & more.

🗣️ After receiving a birthday card in the mail along with a Starbucks gift card from someone that she'd never met, she was exposed to a business tool utilizing greeting cards and gifts and was blown away!

🗣️ She had always spent a lot of time and energy thinking about how to be a good communicator and friend, and she saw the value of this instantly as a powerful business communication tool, a personal relationship-building system, and an income opportunity all in one.

🗣️ In a short amount of time, she grew her business to include a large network of business owners and individuals, is one of the top income earners in the company, and is passionate about helping others achieve their desired results as well.

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #48 Paying the Price for Standing on Your Principles  Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Thought Leader, & Veteran Jon M.Singletary Sr.

Jon shares with us:

• Standing on your principles and paying the price.
• When you put people first, you have to be willing to face repercussions.
• When standing on your principles, be willing to pay the price.
• African American get more NJP than their white counterparts in the military and much more.

He’s a retired Air Force veteran with 23 years of service as the Senior Enlisted Leader of Air Force / Air National Guard Recruiting and Retention worldwide.

He holds multiple Department of Defense records and is a decorated architect of one of the most successful recruiting programs in history.

His legacy of thoughtful and strategic leadership has left an indelible impression.

In addition to Jon’s servanthood, he has written and published two books; The Journey: From Fear to Abundant Faith in 2017, and his most recent,

Powered by Purpose (now available for purchase).

He’s also the host of The Help Myself Podcast, an inspiring broadcast centered on empowering conversations about personal and professional

development, resiliency, and success.

As a thought leader, mindset, accountability, development coach, and a dynamic organizational and leadership culture consultant, Jon expands his impact as a sought-after keynote speaker who has shared with groups and audiences all over the country.

When he’s not inspiring and helping people step into their purpose, he’s advocating for and pouring love into his pride and joy, his son Jon M. Singletary Jr. aka LJ. LJ is an amazing autism hero who inspires Jon and all who meet him, to live their best life.

Contact info:

703 214 9383

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #47 The Ethical Business Hack with content creator & financial expert LaJuan Hughes

LaJuan  shares with us:

• What is the best way to get business credit?
• How to leverage what you already have to pay on your credit card.
• How to use online platforms to get your 20k.

An entrepreneur and content creator who teaches aspiring and current business owners how to "ethically hack" the big banks leveraging their credit to grow and scale their businesses.

He is the owner of the Omi Growth Strategy.

He has been featured in major publications such as Digital Journal & Market Watch.

Contact Info:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen to another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #46 The Black Experience in America with author, writer & Linkedin Top Voice Elizabeth Leiba.

Elizabeth Leiba shares with us:

• Being a black woman in predominately white spaces in corporate America.
• Why do people tend to villainize black folk?
• The immigrant experience is very different than the black American experience and much more

✅ Elizabeth Leiba is a writer, college professor, and advocate for Black businesswomen. She has over 100,000 followers on LinkedIn who range in age, race, background, and location, and are primarily located in the US, Canada, and the UK.

✅ Her passion for Black history changed her life and catapulted her into a fulfilling line of work as a powerful advocate of social justice and equity for Black women, especially Black businesswomen. Elizabeth strives to create resources that support, empower, and amplify Black businesswomen and their businesses.

✅ She was featured in the 2020 New York Times article, “Black LinkedIn Is Thriving. Does LinkedIn Have a Problem With That?,” which highlighted her social justice advocacy work. The response to this article spurred her to launch her online, accessible e-learning platform, Black History & Culture Academy, the stunning educational resource which earned her the recognition of a LinkedIn TOP VOICE in Education in 2020.

✅ She is also the host of Black Power Moves, a podcast on EBONY Media Covering Black America Podcast Network. Her most recent writing includes an Op-Ed piece on racial profiling for CNN, which had more than 2 million views on their news website.

✅ In early 2022, Elizabeth launched her website directory, Black Women Handle Business, which is the premier website for Black women entrepreneurs and professionals to network, collaborate and share resources.

✅ In December 12, 2022- Debut author Elizabeth Leiba penned a thought-provoking guidebook for black women to navigate in the workplace. I’m Not Yelling: A Black Woman’s Guide to Navigating the Workplace is part strategy for savvy black businesswomen navigating a predominantly white corporate America and part vessel empowering black women to find their voices in toxic work environments and be successful businesswomen.

Contact info:

Go grab your Bluetooth headset or headphones and listen another powerful Troy Talks Podcast interview episode #45 Thinking Outside the Box with my fellow JMT colleage and Coach, Speaker, & Trainer LaQuita Monely. 

LaQuita shares with us a few things:

• Linear thinking does not benefit anybody
• 8 tools to develop a growth mindset
• The importance of knowing who you are and much more

La'Quita Monley is An Independent Certified Coach, Teacher, Trainer, and Speaker with The John Maxwell Team. 

By using transformation initiatives as empowerment tools, LaQuita Monley passionately equips individuals, organizations, and ministries to unlock their full potential and live out their mission in the most authentic way.

This serial entrepreneur, international speaker, and minister believes the foundation of personal development and business growth rests in possessing the right mindset. 

As a sought-out keynote speaker in the United States and abroad and a Transformational coach, LaQuita challenges others to transform their thinking to revolutionize their spheres of influence.

Leaders and entrepreneurs alike tune into her live broadcast, La’Quita’s Toolbox Live as well as her podcast La’Quita’s Toolbox, for inspiration and implementable action steps to realize their full potential. 

Her life’s work is proof that LaQuita Monley is impassioned by motivating others to become the best versions of themselves.

Contact info:

🎧 Grab your headphones and/or your Bluetooth headset and listen to this podcast interview episode 44 with P.A. Author, Speaker, & Podcast Host Rashadah Jordan.

🎙️Rashadah shares with us her story of resilience turned into success:

1. Mental, Physical, & Sexual Abuse
2. Forgiveness
3. Overcoming Struggle & much more

🥼Rashadah Jordan is a physician assistant practicing in psychiatry in Frisco, Texas.

✅ She obtained her Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Francis Marion university as a student in the preliminary cohort.

✅ Prior to obtaining her master, Rashadah obtained her bachelor’s at Coastal Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in health promotion.

✅ Rashadah also has the pleasure of serving as an NCCPA Ambassador for the year 2019-2021. Which stands for the national committee on certification of physician assistants.

✅ Aside from her academic background, Rashadah is also a first-time self-publish, author of Unfold My Ashes available on Amazon.

✅ She is also an entrepreneur with her mentor program, Dreams Inspire Life.

✅ Rashadah is currently a mentor to overall 16 persons alongside Afnan, who is a physician assistant practicing urgent care and psychiatry as well.

✅ Rashadah also uses her spare time recording YouTube videos to inspire others interested in the profession of physician assistant studies and helping her mentees apply to find their PA schools of choice and apply to them.

✅ She is also the host of God, Coffee, and Resilience Podcast.

Her philosophy is “  The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.”

Contact info:

Go grab your headphones, your airpods and/or your Bluetooth headset and listen to my podcast interview Josh Tapp as we discuss Podcasting Principles, Procedures, & Planning. 

Josh shares some insights about podcasting

1. 90% of podcasters quit after the 5th episode (find out why in this episode)
2. The purpose of a podcast is to create sales opportunties, create networking & partnership opportunites, & to culitvate your audience. 
3. Ask podcast guests for referral guests

• Josh is on a mission to find 1,000 of the world's best humans to help them elevate and amplify their voices with game-changing thought leadership content.
• Josh Hosts of the Apple Itunes Top 50 Marketing and Entrepreneurship Podcast, The Lucky Titan, Josh has worked with over 1500 of the world’s top entrepreneurs discovering their most coveted business success secrets and sharing them with the world. 
• His company, Podcast Multipliers, has helped over 750 entrepreneurs (and counting) to launch, monetize, and scale their own industry-leading podcasts.  
  Leveraging the Pantheon Method (Josh's proprietary method for scaling industry-leading podcasts) he founded multiple 7 figure businesses and has spoken in front of nearly 500,000 entrepreneurs worldwide.

Josh's contact info:

Check out my latest episode with my friend and little brother LeRon Barton. LeRon shares with us great tips and insights on Overcoming Through Your Personal Story. He shares with us these tips:

• It's one thing to memorize a speech but it is another thing to be able to deliver it. 
• The story reaches more people than the data. 
• It's easier to score when you start off from 2nd or 3rd base and so much more. 

LeRon L. Barton is a writer from Kansas City, Missouri currently living in San Diego, CA. A graduate of Paseo Academy of Fine Arts, LeRon is the author of two books, Straight Dope: A 360 degree look intoAmerican Drug Culture and All We Really Need Is Love: Stories of Dating, Relationships, Heartbreak, and Marriage.

In addition to his books, LeRon is an essayist whose topics cover racism, mass incarceration,

politics, gender, and dating. These works have appeared in Black Enterprise, Salon, Harvard Business Review, The Good Men Project, Your Tango, Media Diversity, Raconteur, Elephant Journal, Slate, andMoAD.

LeRon is an international speaker who has given multiple talks and appeared on TEDx, Al Jazeera, the University of San Francisco, Navis, Speakers Who Dare, University of Massachusetts-Amhurst, Nas Dubai, Glide Memorial Church, HCA, The City of Cupertino, Los Altos Chamber of Commerce, Square, Lockton, United Way of Los Angeles, and Defy Ventures.

In his spare time, LeRon enjoys mentoring African-American youth and backpacking around the world.

Contact Info:

This was another great and powerful podcast interview with Prithivi aka The Marketing Nomad or Prith. She is a powerful online marketer from India but shared with us a few insights and information. 

1.  The limbo phase can cause us anxiety and anger. 
2. Losing her visa status inspired her to expand her mind and business from physical to online. 
3. Sell without Selling and/or Talk about your business without talking about your business.

• Prithvi Madhukar aka The Marketing Nomad has been a digital entrepreneur and business owner for the past two years. 
• She is also a podcaster (Top 100 in Marketing for India), a YouTube vlogger, an Etsy shop owner, a content creator, and a nano-influencer. 
• Prithvi is a Marketing Strategy Consultant and the CEO of her own Marketing Consultancy firm, The Marketing Nomad LLC. She has successfully worked with 60+ clients from 8 different countries in the past year of her entrepreneurship journey. 
• She started from scratch and built an online business that knows no borders and allows her to be a digital nomad. 
• She also enjoys Bollywood dancing in her free time.

Please check out this episode, also listen, subscribe, and give us a review. Thank you

Prithvi Madhukar Contact info:

Grab your headphones or your Bluetooth and check out this awesome interview with April HIght and Jessie Howell on the Foster Parenting Process. This interview was alarming, educational, & fascinating. April & Jessie shared with us:

• Being aligned with your purpose
• Aligned with your gifts and talents
• Impostor syndrome comes from comparison and judgment and much more

🎧 April Hight works with FamiliesFirst Network as a Foster Home Recruiter - raising awareness of the need for foster homes in our community.

She was a foster parent for 10 years and adopted 3 children during that time. Her heart is to see her community standing in the gap for vulnerable children and families in her area.

🎧 Jessie Howell For approximately 10 years Jessie Howell has served her community as a foster parent, fostering over 150 children.

She has fostered 7 years in the Pensacola area and 3 years in Georgia. Jessie has also adopted 5 children.

Since fostering, she has helped over 30 children be reunified with their biological families.

She strives to have an open relationship with many of the childbirth families’ that she fosters. She has had the opportunity to mentor and encourage other people looking to foster and adopt.

Jessie currently helps to train NTDC for prospective foster and adoptive parents in Circuit 1. She has also taught the QPi curriculum. Jessie has recently started teaching parenting classes for court-ordered families. The goal of this curriculum is to help teach parents how to live in healthy communities.

In 2020, Jessie started a food drive to provide meals to foster parents who were under extreme stress from losing all support due to Covid.

She served monthly meals to an average of 100 foster families in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Okaloosa, since then.

This food drive consisted of a partnership with 12 different restaurants,12 churches, and 6 other organizations. Jessie continues to run Feed Fosters NWF supporting both foster families and local restaurants.

Website:

Check out my latest podcast interview How to Comeback After a Setback with Melissa Hall of the Hall Insurance Group.

Melissa Hall is an author, entrepreneur, life insurance agent, & podcast host. She is the founder and the owner of the Hall Insurance Group.

She shares with us her story and teaches us:

1. How to Comeback after a Setback
2. You will have to make a choice to sacrifice sleep, money, or social life while building a business.
3. The changes that are good in the life insurance industry are technology and much more. 

Her story in the insurance industry began when she was a sophomore in college working at a local cable company.

During that time her mother brought it to her attention that she needed to invest in a life insurance policy to pay off her student loans in case the unthinkable should happen.

Also at the same time, her grandmother had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and suddenly insurance became a hot topic within their family.

Coincidentally, she was offered an agent position at a national insurance company (whom she still partners with today) that could cover her grandmother, she instantly accepted the opportunity and immediately quit her job.

That allowed her to embark on a successful career initially helping only the senior population.

Contact info: https://coveredbymel.com/

Join me for another powerful interview with Beate Chelette on the Troy Talks Podcast Show. 

She gives us some jewels and nuggets. 

Please listen, download, subscribe, and give us a review. 

Some of her jewels and nuggets are:

I will not drown in a puddle but in the ocean.

The way we can see a crisis as an opportunity is only when we have the spirit of gratitude. 

The original way the system's been set up is based on the old man's is all about winning and power.

In a crisis, we need more female-centric leadership attributes such as empathy, compassion, collaboration & community.

Beate Chelette is the Growth Architect and Founder of The Women’s Code and provides visionaries and leaders with proven strategies, blueprints, and growth maps that provide clear steps to improve business systems and strengthen leadership skills and teams so that our clients and audiences can maximize profits and scale their impact.  

Beate Chelette is known as a straight shooter and her ability to inspire, empower and overcome adversity. Her super skill is working with unique personalities and big thinkers and building executable systems.

A first-generation immigrant who found herself $135,000 in debt as a single parent Beate bootstrapped her passion for photography into a global business that licensed content into 79 countries. She exited in a multimillion-dollar deal when she sold the company to Bill Gates.

She is the Podcast host of The Business Growth Architect Show and is listed among the “Top 100 Global Thought Leaders” by PeopleHum and “One of 50 Must-Follow Women Entrepreneurs” by HuffPost.

Contact info:

Website

Diana Damyanova a Growth & Performance coach with Diana D Coaching shares with us insight on self-discovery for us to grow and change through our personal experiences.  She helps unfulfilled overachievers to find a healthier, happier way to live and develop in their careers. She is a former quant, turned strategy and management consultant with experience in a variety of industries, most recently financial services. After 10 years in corporate, she left that world to pursue a career that was truly aligned with her vision.