Apogee Strong

What do you do when life hands you pain you never asked for—and refuses to take it back?How do you lead, live, and love well when suffering becomes part of your story?Many people spend their lives trying to avoid hardship, hide brokenness, or numb disappointment. Others quietly wrestle with deeper questions: Why did this happen to me? Can anything good come from this? And how do I move forward without losing hope?In this powerful conversation, we explore what it looks like to face adversity with courage, faith, and responsibility. This episode challenges the belief that hardship disqualifies us from impact and instead reveals how suffering can become the foundation for purpose, gratitude, and meaningful leadership.John O’Leary is a burn survivor turned bestselling author, global speaker, and host of the Live Inspired Podcast. After surviving burns on 100% of his body at just nine years old—with doctors giving him less than a 1% chance to live—John’s life became a testimony to resilience, faith, and intentional living. Today, he inspires millions around the world to live with purpose, gratitude, and courage. His story will soon be featured in the major motion picture Soul on Fire.John speaks not from theory, but from lived experience. Through decades of physical recovery, emotional struggle, and personal growth, he has learned what it means to fight forward, embrace responsibility, and lead with humility. His journey uniquely equips him to help others reframe suffering and rediscover meaning in the midst of hardship.This is not simply a story about survival.It is a conversation about what you do next with your pain, your calling, and your life.If you have ever felt broken, discouraged, or uncertain about how to move forward, this episode offers perspective, hope, and a reminder that your story is not over.Quotes:“The more you get to know me, the less impressed you are by me. That’s the truth—but the story is not a testimony to how great I am, but to how great God is and how big grace is.”“Humility isn’t pretending we’re less than we are; it’s recognizing that every good thing comes from something greater than ourselves.”“As a leader, it’s easy to aim big; but in this season of my life, I keep asking, ‘How small can I make this? How can I love one person well?’ I’m after the one, not the millions.”Actionable Takeaways:Identify your “fight forward” moment. Write down one hardship you’ve been avoiding or resenting. Ask yourself: What responsibility do I still have in this situation, regardless of what happened to me? Choose one small action you can take this week to move forward.Practice agency over victimhood. Notice where you’ve been waiting for circumstances, people, or emotions to change before taking action. Commit to one area of your life where you will stop waiting and start doing your part. Redefine what heroism looks like. Reflect on the ordinary people in your life who quietly show up with consistency, sacrifice, and grace. Reach out to one of them this week and acknowledge their impact.Conclusion:This conversation reminds us that suffering does not disqualify us from purpose—it can refine it. While we may not choose the challenges we face, we always have a choice in how we respond. Leadership, resilience, and meaningful impact are not built in comfort, but through courage, responsibility, and grace.As you reflect on this episode, consider where you are being invited to fight forward rather than retreat, to take ownership rather than remain stuck, and to live with intention rather than fear. Your story is still unfolding, and what you do next matters.This episode is an invitation to stop measuring life by what went wrong and start measuring it by who you are becoming.Learn more about John O’Leary’s story and the mission behind his message at https://johnolearyinspires.com/johns-story/.

Why do so many young creators feel stuck—limited by resources, confidence, or lack of opportunities—while a select few find ways to break through? In today’s episode, we explore the real challenges facing the next generation of filmmakers: imposter syndrome, industry shifts, creative pressure, and the struggle to build momentum without traditional pathways or support networks.Our guest, Jake Ross Bell, is living proof that you don’t need film school or Hollywood connections to create meaningful work. At just 21, Jake is an indie filmmaker, writer-director, and creator of the IndieFilm Insider podcast. Known for his dark, character-driven storytelling and gritty DIY approach, he’s built a thriving creative community through his company, OrangeJuice Media, producing impactful films on small budgets while pushing artistic boundaries with vision and discipline.In this conversation, Jake shares:How the filmmaking landscape is shifting away from traditional gatekeepersWhy young creatives struggle with confidence—and how to lead even when you feel unqualifiedThe value of learning by doing versus waiting for permissionHow to build community, collaborate effectively, and stay resilientThe mindset needed to pursue big, ambitious projects at a young ageWhether you're a filmmaker, a young creative, or someone searching for direction in a noisy world, this episode offers clarity, inspiration, and a roadmap for turning passion into practice.Quotes:"If you see something that you don't like, do something about it. Don't actually just, you know, wait for it to change itself, because it's most likely not going to." "Art is just people trying to learn stuff about themselves, about the world, about others. That's kind of the vessel I chose—exploring darker dramas to understand the human experience.""A lot of what I would say are my skills come from actually just learning—making mistakes, trying things, and figuring out what works by doing." Actionable TakeawaysChallenge your creative excuses: Identify one project you’ve delayed because of fear, lack of resources, or perfectionism—and commit to starting it this week using whatever tools you already have.Lead before you feel ready: Practice giving clear direction in one area of your life (school, work, or creative projects). Leadership grows through repetition, not confidence.Study human behavior intentionally: Jake’s stories come from observing real people. Spend 10–15 minutes a day watching interactions, emotions, and environments—then journal what you notice.Build your creative community: Reach out to one person who shares your artistic interests and propose a small collaboration. Don’t wait for your “team”—start forming it.Redefine your filmmaking (or creative) education: Ask yourself, “What can I learn by doing instead of waiting to be taught?” Then take one concrete step—write a scene, film a rough shot, or create a simple 60-second story.ConclusionThis episode reminds us that creative growth doesn’t come from waiting for permission, perfect conditions, or the “right time.” It comes from taking bold steps with what you have, where you are. Through Jake Ross Bell’s journey—learning by doing, leading before feeling ready, and pursuing stories with conviction—we see what’s possible when passion meets persistence. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creator, or someone navigating your own path, the challenge is the same: start now, stay curious, and keep building. Your work only improves when you’re brave enough to make it.If you enjoyed this conversation, share it with someone who needs the push to begin their own creative journey.

Why does it feel like screens are stealing our kids’ imagination, our attention spans, and even our peace at home? Why are so many families exhausted, disconnected, and overwhelmed by technology—even though we know it’s supposed to make life easier? If you’ve ever wondered how to break the cycle of device dependence without guilt, shame, or overwhelm, this episode is for you.Today’s guest, S. S. Coulter—or Shannon—is leading a screen-lite movement that’s changing how families reconnect with real life. Through Planet Fassa, she empowers kids to rediscover creativity, curiosity, and childhood joy through books, fun activities, and simple daily habits. She also equips adults to Break the Chain of tech overload, helping them model the confidence, presence, and creativity we want the next generation to inherit. Her work comes to life in this conversation, where she shares practical solutions, real-world stories, and the neuroscience behind why screens are so addictive—as heard throughout the episodeGet ready for an honest, hopeful, and deeply important conversation about reclaiming connection, rebuilding imagination, and taking back our families from the constant pull of screens.Quotes:"I’m trying to get people to make their phones their servants versus their masters.""Our best memories are when we’re with people—you don’t make your favorite memories staring at a screen.""It’s not our fault that we’re addicted to screens—they’re made to addict us."Actionable Takeaways:Set daily screen-free times for both parents and children; be intentional in modeling the behavior you want to see in your family.Swap some habitual screen time with offline activities—choose simple, low-material tasks to spark imagination and creativity.Reconfigure your device settings (use black-and-white or red-light filters, enable "bedtime mode," or create physical distance from devices) to make phone usage less addictive.Reflect and discuss as a family: “What are our favorite memories, and how many of those happened on a screen?”Connect with your community or peer group to share successful screen-free activity ideas and support each other in building new habits.Conclusion:S. S. Coulter reminds us that reclaiming our families from screen overload isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. When we understand why technology hooks us and how it shapes our kids’ developing brains, we can finally take back control with confidence, compassion, and simple daily choices. Shannon’s mission proves that imagination can be rebuilt, connection can be restored, and joy can return to our homes one small habit at a time. Her message is a powerful call to lead by example, create healthier rhythms, and give our children the childhood—and future—they truly deserve.

What happens when the life you built suddenly falls apart? What do you do when your identity, success, and sense of purpose are shaken to the core? Too many leaders push through pressure, burnout, and quiet frustration—never stopping to ask the deeper questions: Who am I becoming? What truly matters? And how do I rebuild when everything feels uncertain?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Josh Kosnick, a true Bridge Builder—a leader forged through fire and guided by faith. As the founder of Kairos Coaching and an EOS Implementer, Josh has a rare gift: helping individuals and organizations align their vision with execution while turning adversity into a launching pad for deeper purpose. Having built and exited three successful businesses, Josh brings firsthand wisdom on resilience, identity, and transformation. Through his masterminds, retreats, and mentorship, he inspires others to embrace their calling, overcome setbacks, and build legacies rooted in authenticity, strength, and generosity of spirit.If you’re navigating pressure, leadership challenges, personal transition, or the tug-of-war between ambition and purpose, Josh’s story and insights will challenge you, steady you, and equip you for the next chapter.Quotes:"My hope is to catch people before they have a fall, to realign some priorities, and get right with God, their most key relationships, and their health.""The more I mature, the less I feel I actually know.""Jesus was never in a hurry. He was always purposeful. How much hurry do we have in our lives, and how much are we missing by not being present and intentional?"Actionable Takeaways:Schedule a "clarity break" each week—a dedicated, distraction-free hour away from your office and home to reflect on your priorities, challenges, and vision for growth.Evaluate your identity beyond your job title: Ask yourself, "Who am I beyond what I do? What relationships and values truly define me?"Prioritize and protect key relationships by intentionally blocking time on your calendar for family, faith, wellbeing, and important milestones—don’t let busyness replace what matters most.Seek diverse perspectives and build a support network—including coaches, mentors, or team members who challenge and complement your strengths—instead of trying to achieve everything alone.ConclusionJosh’s story reminds us that real leadership is forged in the moments we don’t choose—the losses, the transitions, the unexpected breaks that force us to confront who we truly are. His journey is a powerful blueprint for anyone striving to lead with conviction, rebuild with clarity, and live with purpose. Whether you’re a business owner, a parent, or a leader in the making, Josh challenges us to slow down, realign our priorities, and walk boldly toward the life God is calling us to build. This episode is an invitation to step into your own defining moment—your kairos moment—and become the kind of leader whose impact lasts long after the work is done.

What if everything you’ve been told about entrepreneurship—creativity, risk, and passion—is wrong?After being escorted out of Coca-Cola at 24, Jim Beach rebuilt his life and launched a multimillion-dollar education company—all without investors, hype, or luck. In this inspiring episode, he reveals how to design success with intention, not inspiration.Jim is an award-winning entrepreneur, McGraw-Hill author, and host of School for Startups Radio, featured on CNN, NPR, and The New York Times. He shares how to:• Build a profitable business for under $5,000• Replace fear with intentional skill-building• Turn rejection into reinvention• Cultivate “personality by decision” to become who you’re meant to be• See how entrepreneurs—not activists—are solving the planet’s biggest problemsJim’s latest book, The Real Environmentalists, showcases innovators tackling climate challenges through capitalism and creativity.🎧 Tune in to discover how to turn setbacks into systems—and why true entrepreneurship starts with designing the life you want.Quotes:"Every single thing about being an extrovert is something you can design and choose and work on.""Passion grows after you’ve done it a while, but I’ve also run businesses that I could care less about... but I like the money that comes from it, and the opportunity to go do the stuff that I do love.""Happiness ends up being a byproduct of all those things that you are doing."Actionable Takeaways:Redefine Entrepreneurship:Challenge the myth that success requires massive risk or original ideas. Start small—test an existing concept locally or in a niche market and improve it.Design Your Personality:List 3 traits you want to develop (e.g., confidence, patience, presence). Identify one practical action for each that you’ll practice daily for the next 30 days.Build Before You Believe:Stop waiting for passion or perfect timing. Take one idea and act on it within a week—momentum often creates motivation.Audit Your Risk:Write down your biggest fears about starting or scaling your business. Then, assign a dollar amount or time cost to each—most risks are smaller than you think.Turn Rejection into Redirection:Reflect on a recent setback and ask: What skill, relationship, or opportunity could this failure be pushing me toward? Document one concrete next step you can take today.Conclusion:Jim Beach’s story is proof that entrepreneurship isn’t reserved for the fearless or the wildly creative—it’s for anyone willing to learn, adapt, and build intentionally. Success doesn’t come from luck or lightning-bolt ideas—it comes from discipline, design, and the courage to start small and stay consistent.If you’re ready to rethink how you approach business and personal growth, start today. Identify one skill you’ve been avoiding and commit to improving it this week.

What happens when your past keeps rewriting your future?We all carry stories — ones we didn’t choose, ones that shaped our reactions, confidence, and leadership. But what if those stories aren’t true anymore? What if the version of you that learned to survive isn’t the same one called to lead?In this transformative episode, Jason VanRuler, MA, CSAT — a nationally recognized therapist, speaker, and author specializing in relationships, attachment, and dating — joins the conversation to share how facing your broken places can lead to true connection and personal freedom. Jason’s journey from a chaotic, trauma-filled childhood to becoming one of the most respected voices in emotional health and leadership offers a roadmap for anyone ready to take ownership of their story.Featured in major national news outlets, known for his strong social media presence, and having spoken on stages to thousands, Jason brings both professional insight and raw honesty to every conversation. He’s the author of Get Past Your Past (Zondervan, 2023) and the upcoming Discovering Your Communication Type, set to be released in April — a groundbreaking look at how our attachment styles shape the way we speak, lead, and love.He reveals why truth is the ultimate kindness, how confidence is something we earn through small, consistent action, and why uncovering your origin story is the foundation of authentic leadership. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or yourself, this episode will challenge how you view growth, success, and self-awareness.Quotes:“The best kind of confidence is the kind you earned. You can only earn it if you know where you’re starting.”“If we don’t really understand why that’s the goal, we’ll never get there. What fuels us fools us into thinking, ‘When I get X, I will feel Y,’ but fulfillment comes from knowing our true origin story.”“You don’t have to do the big thing every day, but you’ve got to do a thing every day that helps you be better—and do it consistently.”Actionable Takeaways:Identify your “scale moment.”Write down one area of your life where you’ve been avoiding the truth — your finances, health, or relationships. What would it look like to face it honestly this week?Audit your personal story.Reflect on a belief you’ve carried since childhood (“I’m not good enough,” “I always mess up,” etc.). Ask yourself: Is this still true today — or just an old story I’ve never rewritten?Earn your confidence through small wins.Choose one habit or routine you can do daily — no matter how small — that reinforces trust in yourself. Consistency, not perfection, builds authentic confidence.Define your communication type.Are you a Peacemaker, Advocate, Thinker, Harbor, or Spark? Notice how you naturally communicate under stress, and identify one way to better connect with someone who communicates differently.Celebrate progress, not just results.At the end of each week, list one thing you accomplished or handled better than before. Pause to acknowledge growth before moving on to the next challenge.Conclusion:Jason VanRuler reminds us that growth doesn’t begin with perfection — it begins with honesty. When we stop hiding behind stories that no longer serve us and start owning where we really are, we gain the power to change everything. Confidence isn’t something we’re given; it’s something we earn through daily discipline, reflection, and courage.Whether you’re a leader, parent, or student of life, the path forward starts with one question:What story about yourself needs to change — and what truth are you finally ready to face?Call-to-action:If this episode inspired you, take the next step: dive deeper into Jason’s work through his books Get Past Your Past and Discovering Your Communication Type, and begin building a more intentional, truthful, and connected version of yourself.📘 Order Jason’s book:➡️ Get Past Your Past🌐 Visit www.jasonvr.com for more resources.