Are you exactly where you want to be, or does life feel like a map with a big red “You Are Here” dot and no clear path forward? Let’s pause together, take stock of our current “here,” and explore how to move forward with curiosity, honesty, and a little more joy. Today, I’m sharing four practical steps to reflect on where you are, embrace your insecurities, and enjoy the ride, even when the road is messy. Plus, I’ll share a powerful research-backed mindset shift and a favorite piece of advice from my dad.HighlightsThe power of acknowledging your current “here” without blame or victimhoodFour steps to reflect on your life’s current seasonHow insecurities shape our self-perception (and what to do about them)A story about family, foreheads, and embracing what you can’t changeThe surprising research on curiosity vs. positive self-talk for successWhy asking “Will I?” is more powerful than saying “I will”The importance of enjoying the process, not just chasing goalsA personal update: celebrating 15 years of marriage and entering a new decadeChapters00:24 – The “You Are Here” map and life’s journey00:56 – Accepting your current place—pride, regret, and questions01:50 – Setting aside victim stories and owning your starting point02:47 – Four steps to reflect on where you are03:22 – Step 1: What’s good, what’s messy, what brings joy?04:43 – Step 2: Insecurities—stories from childhood and family07:17 – Step 3: Curiosity and the “Will I?” mindset (research highlight)09:51 – Step 4: Enjoying the ride and embracing the process12:08 – Final encouragement and closing thoughtsResources MentionedBeginner’s Pluck by Liz Bohannonhttps://www.lizbohannon.co/bookKansas Leadership Centerhttps://kansasleadershipcenter.org/Want to learn more?The ThreadBe sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedInThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

What does it mean to truly connect with the land, its people, and the stories that shaped them? Join our conversation with Greg Victors, the Wichita War Dancer, as we explore Native American heritage, resilience, and the ongoing journey of cultural preservation in Kansas and beyond. Discover the power of tradition, the importance of representation, and how every Kansan can play a role in honoring the past while building a more inclusive future.HighlightsThe story behind the Wichita War Dancer and Greg’s personal journeyUnderstanding Native regalia: meaning, tradition, and identityThe history of Native Americans in Kansas, including the boarding school era and the Trail of TearsCultural differences and commonalities among Native nationsThe importance of representation and combating stereotypes in mediaHow non-Native Kansans can show respect and support for Native communitiesThe role of elders, youth, and education in preserving cultureKansas-made products game: celebrating local innovation and heritageTips for connecting with nature—ditch flowers, butterfly gardens, and moreChapters00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Greg Victors03:20 – Plains Indian Sign Language & Cultural Greetings04:50 – Greg’s Background: Performer, Advocate, Educator06:00 – The Meaning of Regalia and Identity08:00 – Kansas Roots: Family, History, and the Ponca Nation13:00 – The Boarding School Era and Haskell Indian Nations University16:00 – The Ponca Trail of Tears and Kansas Connections20:00 – Spiritual Connection to the Land22:00 – Cultural Differences Among Native Nations27:00 – The Role of Elders, Youth, and Passing Down Traditions32:00 – The Story of the Wichita War Dancer: Dance, Performance, and Advocacy38:00 – Symbolism in Regalia: Colors, Feathers, and the Morning Sun43:00 – Modern Native Issues: Sovereignty, Rights, and Representation48:00 – How to Show Respect and Support for Native Communities52:00 – Representation in Media and Combating Stereotypes56:00 – How to Connect with Greg Victors and Book Performances58:00 – Celebrating Native Culture Year-Round1:00:00 – Kansas-Made Products Game1:15:00 – Ditch Flowers, Butterfly Gardens, and Local Nature1:23:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Support the PodcastResources & LinksGreg Victors – Wichita War Dancer: wichitawardancer.comHaskell Indian Nations University: haskell.eduRenaissance Cafe (Sponsor): renaissancecafeasaria.comCohort Digital (Sponsor): cohortdigital (no .com)Ask a Kansan Sponsorships: askakansan.com/sponsorshipsKansas-Made Products:Adam Popcorn Popper: Quinn Craft ProductsStroud’s Locker Beef Jerky: stroudslocker.comMcCauley Aircraft Propellers: mccauley.txtav.comRogue Hoe Tools: prohoe.comGrasshopper Mowers: grasshoppermower.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

How do you lead a university into the future while staying rooted in community and tradition? Join us as we explore the journey of Dr. Matt Thompson, President of Kansas Wesleyan University, and discover how vision, vulnerability, and collaboration shape both campus and community.HighlightsThe cereal-before-milk debate and other everyday brain teasersDr. Matt Thompson’s path from Florida to Kansas Wesleyan UniversityThe meaning behind “the power of and” at KWUHow faith, creativity, and leadership intersect in higher educationBuilding resilient communities through local partnerships and initiativesThe importance of vulnerability and support for studentsKansas history trivia and stories, from dugouts to carousel horsesThe legacy of the Menninger family in mental healthBest-tasting water in Kansas and the reopening of the Kansas Museum of HistoryChapters0:00 – Breakfast debates and brain teasers2:52 – Welcome and guest introduction: Dr. Matt Thompson4:56 – Matt’s background and journey to Kansas6:05 – College experiences and lessons from set design8:51 – First impressions of Kansas and cultural differences12:07 – Faith background and its influence on leadership14:33 – The “power of and” philosophy at KWU17:09 – Growth, resources, and community at Kansas Wesleyan20:43 – Looking up: vision, challenges, and the Community Resilience Hub24:51 – Partnerships, collaboration, and vulnerability in Salina28:49 – Supporting student growth and well-being31:41 – Social media, presence, and the ministry of showing up34:00 – Legacy, leadership, and the future of KWU39:32 – Kansas trivia: water, museums, and artifacts49:35 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with KWUResources MentionedKansas Wesleyan University: www.kwu.eduRodale Institute (regenerative organic farming): rodaleinstitute.orgKansas Museum of History: kshs.org/museumLawrence Journal-World (Best Tasting Water): ljworld.comKansas Public Radio: kansaspublicradio.orgMenninger Foundation: menningerclinic.orgDickinson County Heritage Center (Abilene Carousel): heritagecenterdk.comCW Parker Carousel Museum (Leavenworth): firstcitymuseums.orgKansas Water Environment Association: kwea.net

What does it really take to build a thriving, intentional community and keep it going for five years? Discover the stories, lessons, and laughter that have shaped our journey as we celebrate a major milestone for The Thread. From early morning workshops in a creaky old building to heartfelt moments of growth, family, and friendship, this episode is a celebration of resilience, purpose, and the power of showing up for each other. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to our community, you’ll find inspiration in the memories, challenges, and wins we share.HighlightsCelebrating five years in business—why this milestone matters for small businessesThe origin story: early workshops, intentional setups, and the importance of energyHow our team grew from two to three, and the impact of doing life togetherFamily memories: Thread family nights, celebrations, and supporting each other through life’s seasonsThe power of community: alumna workshops, cohort connections, and the magic of culmination daysLessons learned: trusting the process, providing space, and letting values guide the wayThe importance of planting seeds and building community over timeReflections on supporting women, families, and each other through challenges and growthChapters00:00 – Welcome & Five-Year Celebration00:44 – Why Surviving Five Years Matters01:19 – Team Introductions & Early Memories02:18 – Cohort One: Setting the Foundation05:10 – Growing the Team & Doing Life Together07:37 – Family, Friendship, and Community12:15 – Best of the Last Five Years: Team Reflections20:45 – Community Highlights: Workshops & Alumna Connections27:43 – Culmination Days & Success Stories34:22 – Opening the Kansas City Chapter37:13 – Serving Others: Giving Back as a Community38:44 – Lessons Learned: Intention, Space, and Trusting the Process43:22 – Looking Ahead: Planting Seeds & The Next Five Years46:27 – Gratitude & Closing ThoughtsResources MentionedUS Bureau of Labor Statistics – Small Business SurvivalTanganyika Wildlife ParkElderslie FarmICT SOSHabitat for HumanityWant to learn more?The ThreadBe sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedInThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

What does it really take to build a legacy in the beauty industry? On our first ever episode of Suite Independence, I share an incredible conversation with Eric Fisher, a true industry icon whose journey to founder of Eric Fisher Salons, Eric Fisher Academy, and Prosper U is filled with lessons on grit, passion, and the power of showing up. We explore how the definition of success has evolved, why relationships matter more than technical skills, and how to thrive in a changing world, whether you’re just starting out or looking to reignite your purpose.HighlightsEric Fisher’s unconventional path from music to beautyThe influence of family and mentors on career choicesHow the beauty industry offers real economic opportunity and flexibilityThe importance of lifelong learning and constant self-improvementBuilding a culture of empathy, grit, and showing upThe evolution of beauty standards and the impact of social mediaCreating memorable client experiences beyond technical skillsThe business of beauty: financial literacy, retail, and maximizing valueGiving back, mentorship, and the legacy of teachingInsights on photography, creativity, and developing your own aestheticAdapting to generational shifts and staying relevant as a leaderChapters00:00 — Welcome & Introduction to Eric Fisher00:58 — Eric’s Early Journey: From Drummer to Beauty School03:19 — Lessons from London and Global Experience05:21 — Opening the First Salon and Learning from Mentors08:21 — The Power of Passion and Loving Your Work10:30 — Changing Perceptions: Beauty School as a Career13:55 — The Value of Trade Schools and Economic Mobility16:41 — Lifelong Learning and the Birth of Prosper U19:59 — Building Habits, Practicing Excellence, and Showing Up24:24 — Grit, Motivation, and the Challenges Facing Young Professionals28:34 — Empathy, Mentorship, and Individualized Teaching32:21 — Relationship Skills, Scripts, and Business Building36:47 — Maximizing Value: Retail, Financial Planning, and Average Ticket41:04 — The Experience Economy: Creating Memorable Client Moments46:53 — The Role of Money, Success, and Defining Your Best50:51 — Photography, Creativity, and Changing Beauty Standards54:09 — Giving Back, Mentorship, and the Power of Teaching59:58 — What’s Next: Growth, Legacy, and Lifelong Learning1:01:06 — Closing Thoughts & AppreciationResources MentionedEric Fisher AcademyProsper UEric Fisher Instagram (Hair)Eric Fisher Instagram (Photography)Books:Atomic Habits by James ClearThe Four Agreements by Don Miguel RuizThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtA Circle of Creativity by Rick RubinThe Experience Economy by B. Joseph Pine II & James H. GilmoreUnreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraIf you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe and share with a friend!