Joystarters with Rachel Baribeau: Nurturing Faith, Finding Purpose, and Pursuing Joyful Living

Rachel recently spoke to nearly 100 football players at Moravian University, creating a space for them to talk honestly about mental health, family struggles, trauma, loss and the pressure so many men feel to protect, provide and perform. In this episode, she reflects on why she no longer sees herself simply as a speaker, but as a sacred space holder. Her work is about helping people take off the mask, put down some of what they have been carrying, and feel safe enough to be real. She also shares why soul care matters after pouring so much into others, and why, even after 10 years of I’m Changing the Narrative, this work still leaves her in awe. To receive positive messages and uplifting content to your inbox weekly, subscribe to Rachel's newsletter    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Sunday Soul vault episode, Rachel’s sits down with six-time Grammy-nominated musician Robert Randolph, they dig into the remarkable instrument behind his signature sound, the sacred steel guitar. This is Part Two of the conversation; be sure to catch Part One as well! Robert shares how he learned to play in church, the generations of family and faith that shaped his music, and how a young musician from New Jersey went from playing in the pews to touring the world. He also talks about studying artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan, discovering rock legends later in life, and the physical and mental challenge of playing an instrument that requires both hands, both feet, knee levers, finger picks, and a willingness to keep learning. The conversation expands beyond music as Robert and Rachel talk about caring for the body, protecting your mental health, and keeping life in perspective. This episode is a reminder that purpose is not only about what you create but also about who you serve, what you pass along, and how you use what you have been given. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We are going back to the vault this summer of 2026. Rachel is headed to work with the Minnesota Gophers for the 10th year in a row this week, so we are sharing this episode from August of 2025 where she reflects before speaking to the team. This episode contains thoughts from NFL meeting notes to God-given middle-of-the-night inspiration, and she shares the importance of caring for yourself before you pour into others, discovering your “soul’s superpower,” and never dying with your flowers. You’ll hear stories of small acts that lit up strangers, miracles that defy explanation, and why being a person of your word can change lives—including your own. This episode is part pep talk, part heart check, and 100% encouragement to use your gifts right where you are. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our new episodes this fall! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr.. Kevin Elko has spent decades working alongside championship coaches, Fortune 500 leaders, and some of the world's highest performers, but the lessons he shares in this conversation aren't just for elite athletes. They're for anyone who wants to live with more purpose, courage, and joy. Rachel and Dr. Elko explore why the happiest people aren't chasing blessings but becoming one for someone else. They talk about the life-changing practice of "being where your feet are," why champions refuse to think realistically, how forgiveness frees us to move forward, and why boldness always begins with belief. If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to pursue a dream, let go of old baggage, or believe something bigger is possible for your life, this conversation will leave you seeing what's possible in an entirely new way. Rachel is on book deadline, so we are sharing old episodes from the vault with timeless lessons we know you will find valuable. Enjoy! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel is deep in the final stretch of writing her second book, with a deadline quickly approaching. While she's spending these weeks pouring her heart into those pages, we wanted to share a conversation you may have missed. This episode originally aired on the Founders War Room podcast, where Rachel sits down to share her journey from national sportscaster to speaker, author, and founder of I'm Changing the Narrative. It's an honest conversation about purpose, identity, leaving a dream career, building a movement, and why success alone is never enough if your soul isn't fully alive. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or listening again, we think you'll find plenty of encouragement as Rachel talks about using your pain for purpose, throwing the rope back for others, and creating a life that matters long after the titles and accomplishments fade. We'll be back soon with brand-new Joy Starters episodes. Until then, we hope you enjoy this conversation. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/2b1b250423 ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel is on book deadline, so we are going back into the vault to share this Sunday Soul conversation with Minnesota head football coach PJ Fleck and his wife Heather. They have an honest discussion about what it really takes to build a strong marriage, lead well, and stay connected through life's challenges. From navigating the demands of coaching and family life to learning how to grow through disagreements instead of avoiding them, this conversation offers wisdom for anyone who wants stronger relationships and a more meaningful life. They also discuss resilience during uncertain times, the importance of personal growth, and why the people who love us most often become the mirrors that help us become better versions of ourselves. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/2b1b250423 ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fresh off speaking with the Minnesota Vikings and attending the Next Level Speakers Conference, Rachel reflects on what happened behind the scenes, and why meaningful human connection matters more than ever. Rachel also shares reflections on mental health in sports, the pressure athletes face, and the importance of knowing who you are beyond your accomplishments. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/2b1b250423 ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel shares a collection of reflections recorded over the past several weeks while traveling, speaking, grieving, coaching, and walking closely with people through some of the hardest moments of their lives. At the center of this episode is one powerful message: You cannot lead people if you refuse to see their pain. From heartbreaking conversations about mental health… to moments with grieving parents, struggling athletes, fathers fighting for their children, and people desperate to know they matter… this episode is a call for deeper leadership, deeper compassion, and deeper human connection. If this episode moves you, please share it with a coach, leader, parent, teacher, teammate, or friend who needs the reminder that people are carrying more than we can see. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/2b1b250423 ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel reflects on the power of encouragement, the ripple effect of forgiveness, and the kind of community that helps you keep going when your confidence starts to wobble. She shares a story that reveals how one conversation can impact generations, and explains why it’s important to use your gifts even when you feel unqualified, uncertain, or under attack. If you’ve ever wondered whether what you do really matters, this episode will remind you that small acts of obedience can create far more impact than you may ever know. Amazon Suit Link SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/2b1b250423 ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, we’re going back to the vault and into the trenches. As part of the 10-year anniversary of I’m Changing the Narrative, Rachel Joy Baribeau shares a portion of one of her early talks… including the unforgettable moment she stopped talking about football—and decided to live it. After years of grinding in sports media, Rachel stepped into something completely unexpected… training camp with a men’s arena football team with no special treatment. What started as a way to prove she understood football turned into something much bigger… a deep respect for the brotherhood, the discipline, and the responsibility that comes with being part of a team. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER. ❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From early morning reflections before the sun comes up… to conversations about leadership, purpose, and what it really means to go above and beyond… this episode is packed with wisdom pulled straight from real life as it’s happening. This episode is part reflection, part teaching, and part wake-up call to live more consciously, more generously, and more fully present. Because the truth is… You’ll never get this day again. If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs ii SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/509cb5fdca Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Joystarters Podcast, we’re sharing Part One of Rachel’s conversation with the Temple Keepers on their Thursday call, where she talked about healing, purpose, and true freedom. She challenges us to ask deeper questions—not just about what we’re doing, but who we’re becoming. In this episode, Rachel talks about: Why you are a “do something” person—and how to start living that out The importance of forgiving your past self to find real peace How shame and negative self-talk keep you stuck Identifying coping mechanisms and replacing them with healthier patterns She also shares personal stories of addiction, redemption, and forgiveness that bring this message to life in a real and relatable way. The episode closes with a guided meditation by Lindsay Freezman on forgiving your past self and releasing shame. Come back for Part Two of the Temple Keepers call next week! SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER This episode contains a meditation from Lindsay Freezman at the end. Lindsay Frezman is a longtime friend of ICTN, and is a mindset coach who helps people shift the way they think so they can change the way they live. She is passionate about helping others move past limiting beliefs, find clarity, and walk confidently in their purpose. Through both her coaching and guided meditations, Lindsay creates space for people to slow down, reset, and reconnect — mind, body, and spirit. www.lindsayfreezman.com, https://www.amazon.com/Create-Space-Yourself-5-Minute-Overthinking-ebook/dp/B0GNLJSFLT Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel shares the story of a last-minute trip she almost didn’t take… and the cascade of powerful lessons that unfolded as a result. From rushing out the door to an unexpected conversation with a stranger to a joyful reunion with lifelong friends, this journey became a masterclass in perspective, emotional growth, faith, and human connection. You’ll walk away encouraged to slow down, speak kindly to yourself, look for purpose in delays, and reach out to people who matter. The episode closes with a calming guided meditation by Lindsay Freezman, who has worked behind the scenes at I’m Changing the Narrative for years. Stick around through the end to release pressure, reconnect with your true self, and return to the present moment. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/509cb5fdca Lindsay Freezman is a mindfulness and meditation guide who helps people slow down, release pressure, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Through her calming voice and compassionate approach, she creates gentle spaces for healing, presence, and inner peace. Follow Lindsay:: https://www.instagram.com/lindsayfreezman Visit her website at: https://lindsayfreezman.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.