Advertise on podcast: The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis

Relationships are at the heart of everything we do, both personally and professionally. But meaningful relationships aren’t built by collecting business cards or constantly looking for what someone can do for us. They’re built through curiosity, genuine conversation, active listening, appreciation, and creating space for people to connect. In this episode, I’m talking with Kevin Thompson, also known as “Kevin the Connector,” about what it really means to create relationships that can transform your business and your life. We talk about the power of bringing the right people into the same room, making meaningful introductions, and letting go of the pressure to turn every conversation into an opportunity. I invite you to join me and Kevin as we discuss: How Kevin discovered that connecting people was one of his greatest gifts Why meaningful relationships are about depth, not the number of people you meet The power of creating the right room and getting out of the way Kevin’s practice of active appreciation and how you can start using it today Why listening may be one of the most powerful ways to build connection The question Kevin loves to ask when meeting someone new How thoughtful introductions can create opportunities you never could have planned Why relationships don’t always need an agenda or immediate business outcome If this conversation gets you thinking about the relationships in your own life and business, hit play and listen in. And when you’re done, I’d love for you to share this episode with someone who believes, like I do, that the right conversation – and sometimes the right introduction – can change everything. Interview links: Kevin on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KevinTheConnector Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your expertise deserves a place beyond the social media post, the podcast interview, or the speaking stage. A book can give your ideas permanence while allowing you to articulate your point of view, share your methodology, and build deeper trust with the people you want to reach. But writing a book isn't simply about filling pages – it's about identifying the message, experience, and perspective you have to offer and turning it into something your ideal reader can actually use. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with self-publishing expert and strategist Rachel Harrison-Sund to talk about what it really takes to turn your expertise into a book. Rachel shares how she helps experts package their signature frameworks, methodologies, and ideas into books that serve their readers while also building authority and credibility. In this episode, you'll discover: Why a book can build credibility in a way that social media simply can't. The surprising reason you might already have the makings of your book. When “I'm not ready yet” is wisdom – and when it's just an excuse. Why your book doesn't have to be 300 pages to make an impact. The question every author needs to answer: “Did you write this for me?” How your “busted assumption” could become the big idea that sets your book apart. What to do if you have the expertise but don't consider yourself a writer. Why speaking your book out loud might be the easiest way to get it written. The behind-the-scenes team you need to turn your ideas into a professional book. Why the right editor may be one of the most important investments you make. If you've been carrying around an idea for a book – or you've been wondering whether your expertise is ready to become one – this conversation is your invitation to stop letting that idea live in your head (or your computer) and start thinking about how it could serve the person who needs it. Listen to the full episode, then connect with Rachel and explore her Expert to Author program and her free Find Your Book's Big Idea workshop. Most importantly, if there's a message you know needs to get out into the world, find the format that allows you to get it there. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aging is something we all think about eventually, but what if we started thinking about it a little differently? Brain health, cognitive decline, and dementia are not simply issues we have to face when we get older—they are conversations we can begin having and actions we can begin taking much earlier. From staying socially connected to keeping our brains engaged, moving our bodies, getting quality sleep, and planning ahead, there are more things within our control than we may realize. And sometimes, the choices we make today can have a much bigger impact on the quality of our later years than we think. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and client Adina Maynard, a former oncology nurse, entrepreneur, speaker, and creator of the brain game Cattywampus. Adina shares the deeply personal story of navigating her mother’s dementia and the lessons she has learned along the way about caregiving, brain health, aging well, and what we can do now to give ourselves—and the people we love—a better future. In this episode, we talk about: What happens when the “call” you knew was coming finally comes The surprising difference between being a daughter and being a nurse Why loneliness may be more than an emotion—it could be a brain-health risk The everyday habits that can help keep your “noggin” sharp Why retirement shouldn’t mean retiring from your life The real reason Adina created Cattywampus—and what she means by “productive play” Why planning for the future isn’t pessimistic—it’s a love letter If you’re part of my community, I hope this conversation gets you thinking about the people you love, the life you’re creating now, and the choices that could shape the years ahead. And if Adina’s story resonates with you, I encourage you to connect with her, explore her brain-health resources, and check out Cattywampus as another way to keep your brain engaged. Most of all, share this episode with someone who might need to hear it—because sometimes the stories we share today can help someone else make a different decision tomorrow. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I don't think any of us ever arrives. I don't think any of us ever gets to master level.” There comes a point in every business when you have to stop and ask: Is this still working? Is this still energizing me? And, perhaps most importantly, is this still the best way to serve the people I'm here to serve? Sometimes the answer isn't a pivot or a complete reinvention. Sometimes it's an evolution – a new way of doing what you've always believed in, one that better fits the season you're in now. In this episode of the Inside Story podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes of a pretty significant evolution happening inside LIGHTbeamers as we approach our 11th anniversary. I've been experimenting with our new live Rooms for the past couple of months, and what I've discovered through that experience has given me a whole new level of clarity about where we're going next – and why I believe we need a place like The Story Studio. In this episode, I’m sharing: Why I knew the old way of doing community wasn't working anymore – and what I decided to do about it. After more than a decade of building community on Facebook, I realized it was time for something different. What six to eight weeks of experimenting with the Rooms taught me about what women are really craving right now. And honestly? It wasn't another course, another resource, or another thing to consume. Why I believe we need spaces where we're allowed to be messy, unfinished, and imperfect. The Story Studio isn't about showing up polished. It's about getting in the room and getting the reps. The surprising lesson I learned from Robin's experience in the Listening Room. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can give someone isn't more information – it's an audience willing to listen. Why real human connection matters more than ever in the age of AI. When we can't always tell what's real online anymore, there's something incredibly refreshing about getting into a room with actual humans and having a real-time conversation. How my own podcast became my practice room – and why I want to give you that same kind of space. I didn't start this podcast because I had mastered storytelling. I started it because I needed somewhere to practice. Why LIGHTbeamers isn't disappearing – it's simply moving homes. The Story Studio is the next evolution of our community, and I'm opening the doors at $11/month to celebrate 11 years of LIGHTbeamers. The Story Studio is officially becoming the new home of the LIGHTbeamers community, and I'm so excited about what we're building here. If you're ready for a place to practice your story, your writing, your speaking, your podcasting, or simply your visibility – and you want to do it alongside other women who are putting in the reps too – I would love to have you inside. Come join me for the Story Studio Rooms and see what we're all about at lightbeamers.com/rooms. And as we head into this next chapter together, my challenge to you is the same one I'm giving myself: don't settle for 10. Let's go to 11. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your story is more than something that happened to you. It can become the bridge between what you’ve lived, what you’ve learned, and the people who need to hear what you now know. When we learn how to uncover the right stories, we can use them to create connection, build trust, teach, lead, and ultimately help someone else move forward. But there’s an art to knowing which story to tell, when to tell it, and how much of it belongs in the room. And when you combine your lived experience with the wisdom you’ve gained along the way, your story becomes something people don’t just hear – they remember. Today, I’m joined by Porsché Mysticque Steele, a TEDx speaker, book coach, publishing professional, and founder of Mystique Rose Publishing. Porsché and I first connected at a book marketing conference, and once we started talking, I knew there was so much more to her story than the work she does today. In this conversation, she opens up about the extraordinary journey that led her from a deeply controlled childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur, speaker, and publishing expert – and what that journey taught her about the power of telling your story. Join me and Porsché as we talk about: 📚 How books became a doorway to another world for Porsché when she was physically unable to experience the life she imagined for herself – and how that ultimately led her into editing and publishing. How a skill she developed simply to fill the time became a career ✈️ The extraordinary story of leaving home and starting over. The moment she realized publishing was the work she was meant to do. How writing and processing your own story can help you discover who you really are Why you should share from your scars, not your wounds. 🍯 Why “story + wisdom = impact.” If Porsché's story has you thinking about your own stories – and maybe the ones you've been sitting on, waiting for the “right time” to tell – go connect with her. You can find her at porschesteele.com, or connect with her on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook by searching for Porsché Mysticque Steele. And if you're ready to turn your own story into a book, a talk, or something that can make a bigger impact in the world, she's definitely someone you'll want to know. And, as always, I want to leave you with this: you don't have to tell your whole story. You just have to find the story that can help someone else. So go find yours – and go share it. 💛 Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There comes a moment when you realize the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want isn't a lack of talent or opportunity – it's the ways you've learned to silence yourself. Maybe you've been waiting until you're "ready," editing every word before you say it, or letting everyone else's opinions become louder than your own. In this latest episode of The Inside Story podcast, we're talking about what it really means to become an Unmuted Woman – to trust your voice, own your ideas, and stop shrinking yourself in the process. If you've ever walked away from a conversation wishing you'd spoken up, held back on an idea because you weren't sure it was good enough, or felt like your story wasn't important enough to share, this episode is for you. I'm sharing the mindset shifts that have been transforming not only my business, but the way I'm showing up in the world – and how you can begin doing the same. I hope you’ll join me today as I share with you: Why becoming "unmuted" isn't about becoming louder – it's about returning to the truest version of yourself. The surprising ways perfectionism, overthinking, and people-pleasing quietly keep your voice hidden. Why waiting until you feel "ready" may be the very thing keeping your best ideas stuck inside you. The powerful question that completely changed how I'm building my business, and why it might change yours too. How consuming less and creating more can help you reconnect with your own wisdom and creativity. Five practical ways to stop muting yourself and start showing up with more honesty, confidence, and visibility. Why finding the right "rooms" and community can make all the difference in helping your voice grow. If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love for you to keep it going with me. Come join one of our LIGHTbeamers Rooms, where we're creating spaces for women to speak, write, share their stories, and practice being seen and heard. And be sure to follow The Unmuted Woman on Substack, where I'm continuing to explore these ideas through deeper conversations and long-form writing. Your voice matters – and the world needs the story only you can tell. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I truly believe becoming more visible isn't about having it all figured out. It's about being willing to keep showing up, keep sharing your story, and keep taking the next brave step – even when it feels uncomfortable. I've seen firsthand how storytelling doesn't just change your business; it changes you. It builds confidence, creates connection, and over time, helps you become the kind of person who is willing to say yes to bigger opportunities. Today's conversation is one I've been looking forward to for a long time. I'm sitting down with my dear friend and longtime LIGHTbeamers member, Dawn Loding. I've had the joy of watching Dawn grow over the years – from someone who was hesitant to get on video to a confident speaker, leader, trainer, and podcast host who is impacting thousands of people in the real estate industry. Her journey is such a beautiful reminder that becoming unstoppable doesn't happen overnight. It happens one intentional step at a time. Join me and Dawn today as we talk about: Why becoming unstoppable starts with taking one faithful step instead of trying to do everything all at once. How embracing your personal story can become the foundation for your message, your business, and your leadership. The confidence that comes from sharing your story consistently—and how those skills serve you far beyond the stage. Why I've always believed that messy action will take you further than waiting until you feel ready. How personal growth always precedes professional growth, and why the inner work matters so much. Dawn's journey from living with a scarcity mindset to leading others from a place of abundance. Why it's so important to celebrate your wins, honor each chapter of your journey, and recognize just how far you've already come. I hope this conversation encourages you to take your own next step. If you're ready to become more visible, discover the stories only you can tell, and learn how to use them to create a greater impact, I'd love to welcome you into the LIGHTbeamers Community. And if Dawn's story resonates with you – especially if you're in the real estate world – I hope you'll connect with her and listen to her Agents of Abundance podcast. She's doing incredible work, and I know you'll walk away encouraged. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are seasons in life that change you. And sometimes they change the way you want to do everything. Over the past several months, I've been asking some really hard questions about my business, my purpose, and what success actually means to me. The answers surprised me. In this episode, I'm sharing the journey that led me to rethink everything from marketing to community, and why I believe the future of LIGHTbeamers isn't about bigger launches or more content. It's about creating spaces where real conversations and real transformation can happen. This is my first solo episode in a while, and honestly, it feels really good to be back. I'm taking you behind the scenes of what I've been wrestling with, what God has been teaching me, and why I'm so excited about the next chapter of LIGHTbeamers: ROOMS. If you've ever felt like the way you've always done things no longer fits who you're becoming, I think this conversation will resonate with you. I hope you join me in this episode as I share with you: The phrase that kept showing up in my heart this year—and why it completely changed the direction of my business. The unexpected realization that forced me to separate my identity from my accomplishments. Why I no longer want to build my business around launches, funnels, and constant marketing. How asking one simple question gave me permission to create my business in a way that feels joyful again. Why I'm stepping away from Facebook groups and choosing real conversations over vanity metrics. The vision behind ROOMS, and why I believe they're the future of the LIGHTbeamers community. How building community—not just selling programs—is bringing me back to the reason I started LIGHTbeamers in the first place. I'd love for you to be part of what's next. If this episode speaks to you, come join me inside one of our ROOMS, where we're having honest conversations, doing meaningful work together, and helping each other shine a little brighter. Visit lightbeamers.com/rooms to see what's coming up, and if this episode encouraged you, would you share it with a friend or leave a review? It helps more women discover these conversations, and I can't wait to welcome you into the room. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we think about health, we often focus on the obvious things: eating better, exercising more, and getting enough sleep. But what about the things we're exposed to every single day without even realizing it? The products we use, the air inside our homes, the ingredients hiding in our beauty routines, and the choices we make in our kitchens can all contribute to our overall well-being. The good news? Creating a healthier environment doesn't require perfection—it starts with awareness and small, intentional steps. In today's episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I'm joined by Sarah Clark, a non-toxic living educator whose personal health journey transformed into a powerful mission to help others. From navigating her own breast cancer diagnosis to advocating for safer products and healthier homes, Sarah shares how she turned one of the hardest chapters of her life into meaningful impact for others. In this episode, you'll hear: Why the words "safe" and "natural" on product labels don't always mean what we think they mean. The breast cancer diagnosis that changed everything—and the lesson Sarah wishes every woman knew about advocating for herself. The surprising reason you may want to start taking your shoes off at the door. The simple mindset shift that makes non-toxic living feel doable instead of overwhelming. The everyday products Sarah says are the best place to start if you're ready to make healthier swaps. How sharing your personal story can influence everything from individual lives to public policy. Why progress—not perfection—is the real goal when it comes to creating a healthier home. As always, I hope this conversation reminds you that your story matters. The experiences you've lived through, the lessons you've learned, and the passions that tug at your heart can become a force for good in the world. And if creating a healthier home has been on your mind, don't wait until you have all the answers or can do everything perfectly. Start with one small change, one room, one product, one conversation. Your story has power—and sometimes, the smallest steps create the biggest ripple effects. Interview links Get Better Health with Sarah LinkedIn Instagram Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops.If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grief is one of the most universal human experiences, yet it can often feel incredibly isolating. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or a chapter of life, grief has a way of reshaping us and challenging everything we thought we knew. While grief never truly disappears, many people discover that healing, purpose, and even joy can coexist alongside loss. The journey isn't about "getting over it" – it’s about learning how to carry it and continue living fully. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with author, grief educator, podcaster, and nonprofit founder Brooke Carlock. Brooke shares the heartbreaking story of losing her 10-year-old daughter, Libby, and how she transformed unimaginable loss into a mission of helping others navigate grief, find hope, and honor the people they love. I invite you to listen in on my conversation with Brooke, as we talk about: Grief is not a linear process, and every person's experience with loss is unique. Child loss carries a distinct and profound impact that can permanently change the way a person experiences life. Telling your story can be one of the most powerful and healing tools available during difficult seasons. Seeking support through counseling, mental health resources, and community is a sign of strength, not weakness. Purpose can emerge from even the most painful circumstances when we choose to use our experiences to help others. Legacy projects, like Brooke's Live Like Libby nonprofit, can provide meaningful ways to honor loved ones while making a positive impact. Joy doesn't erase grief—but it is possible to experience happiness, fulfillment, and hope again after loss. Brooke's story is a beautiful reminder that even in our darkest moments, our stories have the power to shine a light for others. If this conversation resonated with you, please share it with someone who may be navigating grief or loss. Be sure to connect with Brooke, learn more about her work, and remember: when you share your story, you shine a light. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being heard, understood, and remembered for the impact you’re here to make. And one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) ways to do that is through media—whether that’s social media, local news, podcasts, or beyond. But for so many people, the idea of putting themselves out there still feels intimidating, overwhelming, or just out of reach. The truth is, the media landscape has changed… and the opportunities available to you right now are more accessible than ever. In this episode, I’m sitting down with someone incredibly special to me—my longtime mentor and dear friend, Freda Ross. Freda has spent over four decades in the media industry, including serving as a news director in a major market, and now helps businesses and nonprofits develop communication strategies that actually get them seen. We’re diving into how to use media to grow your visibility, share your message, and step into your role as the voice of your work. Listen in as Freda and I discuss: Why media visibility is more accessible than ever—and how you may be overlooking opportunities that are already within reach The real reason most people don’t show up on video (and how to move past the fear and perfectionism holding you back) How to position yourself as an expert so reporters, journalists, and producers actually come to you The 3 essential pieces of a simple media strategy every business owner should have in place How to use current events as a “hook” to pitch your story in a way that feels relevant, timely, and valuable A powerful mindset shift: why sharing your story isn’t self-promotion—it’s service Practical tips to feel more confident in interviews, on camera, and speaking off-the-cuff (even when you’re nervous) If this conversation sparked something in you, let it be your reminder that your voice matters, and your story is meant to be shared. Start small. Hit record. Go live. Reach out. The opportunities are there… you just have to step into them. And if you’re ready for more support, make sure you’re inside the LIGHTbeamers Community where we’re practicing this together every week.  Share this episode with a friend who needs that extra nudge to be seen, and don’t forget to rate and review the show — it helps more people find these conversations and step into their visibility too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Communication has the power to shape our relationships. When we know how to listen well, express ourselves clearly, and move through conflict in a healthy way, we create stronger connections at home, at work, and in our communities. Better communication doesn’t mean avoiding hard conversations. It means learning how to navigate them with more grace, understanding, and intention. And in today’s world, I think that skill matters more than ever. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by Mark Oelze, author of The Pledge of a Lifetime and creator of the PLEDGEtalk communication framework. Mark helps couples and individuals learn how to resolve conflict, communicate more effectively, and build healthier relationships. We talk about why so many conversations go sideways – and what we can do differently starting today. Listen in on my conversation with Mark as we talk about: Why conflict is a normal part of every relationship and how it can actually create deeper connection The importance of pausing before reacting so emotions can settle and wisdom can lead How to listen to understand instead of listening to defend yourself Why validation can quickly lower tension and help people feel seen and heard Mark’s PLEDGE framework for navigating difficult conversations in a healthier way How better communication can strengthen marriages, friendships, family dynamics, and workplaces Why the true goal of communication isn’t winning If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same argument, struggled to express yourself, or wanted stronger connection in a relationship, I know this episode will encourage you. Communication is something we can all grow in, and small shifts can create powerful change. Tune in today, share this episode with someone you love, and let me know your biggest takeaway. And if this conversation spoke to you, I’d be so grateful if you subscribed, shared the show, and left a review! Interview Links Check out PLEDGEtalk Grab a copy of Mark’s book, The Pledge of a Lifetime Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mastery isn’t built overnight—it’s built through repetition, consistency, and a willingness to be a beginner. In a world that often glorifies quick results and polished perfection, it’s easy to forget that real growth happens in the messy middle. Whether it’s storytelling, speaking, or simply learning to express yourself more confidently, every skill requires practice. And not just practice—but showing up again and again, even when it’s uncomfortable. In this solo episode, I’m diving into what it really means to “put in the reps” and why that’s the key to becoming a more confident storyteller and speaker. I’m sharing personal reflections, lessons from my own journey, and a powerful story that shifted how I think about growth, effort, and mastery. Here’s what I talk about in today’s episode: You don’t build confidence first—you build it by taking action repeatedly The only thing standing between you and growth is your willingness to show up and practice Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is A learner’s mindset creates freedom, while perfectionism creates pressure You’ll never feel fully “ready”—and that’s not a problem, it’s part of the process Reps done in private are what create confidence in public The magic happens when you stop judging yourself and start just doing the work So let me ask you—where are you avoiding the reps? Where are you waiting to feel ready, polished, or confident before you show up? Your story doesn’t get stronger by staying in your head. It gets stronger when you share it—when you speak it, write it, practice it, and allow it to evolve over time. If you’re ready to start putting in the reps in a safe, supportive space, come join us inside the Lightbeamers Community. It’s a place where you can practice your storytelling, connect with others, and step into your voice—one story at a time. Because every time you share your story… you shine a light. ✨ Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really mean to be seen—and why does it feel so uncomfortable, even when we want it? Visibility isn’t just a strategy; it’s an emotional and physiological experience that can bring up fear, resistance, and self-doubt. For many entrepreneurs and storytellers, the desire to share their message is often in direct tension with the body’s instinct to stay safe. Understanding that dynamic is the first step to showing up in a way that feels sustainable and aligned. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, April sits down with visibility coach and former therapist Anna Holtzman to explore the deeper layers of what holds us back from being seen. Together, they unpack the nervous system’s role in visibility and how to move through fear without burning out. Listen in as Anna and I talk about: ✨ The real reason visibility feels so hard (hint: it’s not a lack of confidence) How your nervous system is wired to prioritize safety over being seen 💔 Why one negative comment can outweigh 100 positive ones The power of “baby steps” when it comes to building visibility sustainably 🤝 How co-regulation (aka not doing it alone) can transform your confidence A simple but powerful practice to calm fear before you show up 🔥 Why consistency isn’t about discipline—it’s about feeling safe enough to return If you’ve been holding back from sharing your story or showing up more visibly, this conversation is your reminder that nothing is “wrong” with you—your nervous system is simply trying to protect you. The work isn’t to force yourself forward, but to support yourself as you go. Start small, stay consistent, and trust that your story matters. Your voice is meant to be heard—and the more you allow yourself to be seen, the more you create space for real connection and impact. Resources Anna’s website: https://www.annaholtzman.com/  Let Yourself Be Seen workshop: anna holtzman.com/be-seen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna_holtzman/  Podcast: How to Trust Yourself https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-trust-yourself-overcome-imposter-syndrome-feel/id1679033028  Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. And if you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leadership isn’t always loud, polished, or found in boardrooms—it’s often shaped in the quiet, everyday moments that go unnoticed. The most impactful leaders aren’t just skilled strategists; they’re deeply connected, intentional, and human in how they show up. From handwritten notes to unwavering resilience, true leadership is built through actions that create lasting emotional impact. This episode explores how storytelling, connection, and lived experience shape the kind of leadership people never forget. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with leadership coach and author Leif Hemstad to explore the powerful story behind his new book, The Leadership Harvest. Through heartfelt reflections on his upbringing and the legacy of his parents, Leif shares what it really means to lead with purpose, presence, and humanity. Come and join me and Leaf as we talk about: The unexpected moment that made Leif realize his father’s “ordinary” life had an extraordinary impact on hundreds of people Why handwritten notes might be the most underrated leadership tool (and how they create ripple effects decades later) The powerful duality of leadership: what happens when optimism and realism come together in one household The emotional story behind a eulogy that turned into a life-changing book Why “soft skills” like connection and empathy are actually the hardest—and most important—skills to master The leadership mistake most people make: focusing on results before building real human connection How small, intentional actions today can become the stories people tell about you for the rest of their lives If this conversation sparked something in you, consider this your invitation to start paying closer attention to the stories that have shaped you—and the ones you’re creating every day. Your experiences, your people, your moments—they matter more than you think. Take time this week to reflect on a story you’ve been overlooking and begin to share it. And beyond storytelling, challenge yourself to take one intentional action—whether it’s writing a note, reaching out, or showing up differently—that strengthens a real human connection in your life or leadership. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices