Mpowered Living with Ann Sheu

In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu welcomes back psychologist Dr. Carrie Johansson to explore a topic that affects all of us: our relationship with emotions.Dr. Carrie explains why emotions are valuable sources of information, but why they aren't meant to dictate our actions. She shares practical strategies for recognizing when we're processing emotions versus simply marinating in them, and how shifting into a more thoughtful, action-oriented mindset can improve many parts of our lives – relationships, leadership, parenting, and overall well-being.In this episode, they discuss:The difference between emotional processing and ruminationHow emotions show up in the body and what they're trying to tell usWhy labeling emotions can reduce their intensityThe "Three A's of Mental Fitness": Accept, Assess, and ActHow to move from emotional reactivity to intentional actionPractical ways to help children build emotional awareness and resilienceWhy asking "What's my next best move?" can be a powerful tool during difficult momentsThis conversation is especially valuable for parents, leaders, and anyone who wants to respond to life's challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and intention.Connect with Dr. Carrie JohanssonThe Sensible Psychologist: https://thesensiblepsychologist.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesensiblepsychologist/

If you’re frustrated with someone… have you actually had the conversation yet?In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with executive coach Lisa Seay for a grounded, honest conversation about leadership, trust, burnout, and the real work happening behind the scenes in leaders’ lives.Lisa shares what she’s learned from years of coaching mid-level and senior leaders—and why so many capable people feel unsure, underprepared, or stuck even after “making it.” From imposter syndrome to difficult conversations to career pivots, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about power… it’s about self-awareness and clarity.In this episode, they unpack:Why leaders struggle to “be human” with their teams—and how vulnerability builds trustA simple structured approach to helping new leaders assimilate with a teamWhat leaders get wrong about “hard conversations” (and why avoiding them causes more damage)The truth behind “clear is kind” and why clarity is a leadership responsibilityThe #1 reason career transitions stall: lack of clarity around what you want and whyHow to ask for help (or build connections) without sounding salesy or needyBurnout warning signs leaders miss—especially “overextended behaviors” that feel unlike youThe coaching question that unlocks everything: “What do you want instead?”Why great leadership begins in the mirrorConnect with Lisa SeayConnect on LinkedInwww.theelementc.comBook a Get to Know Each Other Call

Where in your life are you giving from your leftovers—and what would change if you started creating from wholeness instead?In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Mike & Jill Kotsis for a powerful conversation on intentional living, marriage, parenting, and the daily choices that help a family thrive.Early in their relationship, Mike experienced a major health wake-up call that became a turning point for how they approached life. What followed wasn’t a dramatic overnight transformation—it was a slow, intentional shift toward creating from wholeness instead of from depletion.Together, they share how small habits, honest communication, and a willingness to question everything helped them build a life rooted in purpose, faith, and freedom.In this episode, they explore:How a health crisis became the catalyst for changing how they lived, worked, and loved“Me for we”: why putting your own oxygen mask on first protects the whole familyThe power of micro-habits and small daily choices that compound over timeWhy extreme changes rarely last—and what sustainable growth actually looks likeSoul School: rethinking education as learning from the inside out, not outside inHow to cultivate trust and curiosity in children without giving up parental leadershipBuilding a marriage through daily intention, prayer, and continuous growth togetherWhy intentional communication is the foundation for couples building businesses and familiesThis conversation is especially relevant for couples, entrepreneurs, and parents who want to live with clarity—without burning out or losing what matters most.Connect with Mike and Jill KotsisWebsite: https://mikekotsis.com/Jill Kotsis Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-kotsis-76bb5b2/Jill Kotsis IG: https://www.instagram.com/jillkotsis/Jill Kotsis FB: https://www.facebook.com/jill.kotsis.2025Mike Kotsis Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekotsis/Mike Kotsis EOS: https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/mike-kotsis/Mike Kotsis IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikekotsis22/Mike Kotsis FB: https://www.facebook.com/MikeKotsis1

Where are you spending time on what you’re good at—but secretly dread?In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Mark C. Winters for a powerful conversation on intentional living, visionary leadership, and the clarity that comes from truly knowing yourself.Mark—co-author of Rocket Fuel and author of his newest book, Visionary—shares what he’s learned from working with driven entrepreneurs who move fast, think big, and often feel misunderstood for being “too much.”Together, they unpack what happens when visionary strengths are undervalued (even by the visionary), why many leaders get stuck in the “trap” of doing what they’re good at—but don’t enjoy—and how clarity about your “why” becomes the foundation for a business and life that actually serve you.In this episode, they explore:Why visionary entrepreneurs can feel “unemployable” in traditional environmentsThe overlooked superpowers visionaries often dismiss because they come naturallyThe “trap quadrant”: being great at something you dread—and how it drains your energyWhat it means for the business to serve you (instead of you serving the business)How the visionary–integrator relationship creates healthier execution and less chaosA simple mindset practice: “think about what you think about” to reduce spirals and stressHow defining your future (and your version of freedom) changes how you lead todayThis conversation is especially relevant for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to grow without burning out—and who are ready to build a business aligned with joy, purpose, and long-term fulfillment.Connect with Mark C. WintersWebsite: https://www.markcwinters.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcwinters/MCW Books: Click here

Most people are busy. Few are intentional.In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Steven Ross, EOS Implementer and leadership advisor, to explore why intentionality matters more than hustle — at work and at home.Steven shares practical insights on leading with clarity, transitioning between roles, and showing up more present as a leader, partner, and parent. You’ll hear simple but powerful shifts that help you slow down, communicate better, and build a life aligned with what matters most.If you want to stop reacting and start leading with purpose, this conversation is for you.This episode will help you:Stop operating on autopilot and start leading with purposeUse intentional pauses to improve decision-making and communicationNavigate leadership roles at work without neglecting leadership at homeHave clearer, healthier conversations with your spouse or partnerBuild peer support so you’re not carrying leadership aloneThink differently about success, presence, and long-term legacyConnect with Steven RossLearn more about EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.comWebsite: https://syrconsultingllc.com/Email Steven: steven.ross@eosworldwide.com

In this episode, Barry Barrett shares the core philosophy that shapes his life — the Four F’s: Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finance. He walks listeners through how each pillar influences his daily choices, the way he parents, how he nurtures his marriage, and the principles he applies to his health and financial stewardship.Barry opens up about raising grounded, resilient children through natural consequences, sustaining a thriving 22-year marriage built on growth and service, and maintaining his physical health through discipline and intentional habits. He also dives into his approach to wise investing, living within strong financial values, and his growing passion for equipping young people to transform their spiritual and financial futures.Filled with practical wisdom, honest stories, and powerful life lessons, this conversation offers guidance for anyone seeking to live with greater clarity, intention, and purpose.TakeawaysMore is caught than taught.Life does not hit you for mistakes.I stopped spanking my kids.Consequences are a part of life.Parenting should reflect life lessons.Physical punishment is not necessary.Children learn from observation.Discipline can be taught without hitting.The philosophy of spare the rod, spoil the child is outdated.Parenting requires adapting to new understandings.Connect with Barry BarrettLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrybarrett/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/barrybarrett.bwpcoach/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/business.with.purpose/Email - barry.barrett@eosworldwide.com

SummaryIn this deeply grounding episode, Ann sits down with entrepreneur, author, and co-creator of The 10 Disciplines, Rob Dube, for a powerful conversation about stillness, ambition, emotional regulation, and redefining success. Rob shares how meditation, silent retreats, sabbaticals, and intentional living have reshaped his life—and how driven leaders can find peace without losing their edge.Together, they explore why so many high achievers struggle to slow down, how to discern what truly matters, and why letting go (instead of controlling everything) often leads to better decisions, stronger relationships, and deeper fulfillment.If you’re craving clarity, calm, and permission to create more space in your life, this episode feels like a breath of fresh air.TakeawaysMany people misunderstand what meditation truly is.Meditation involves paying attention to thoughts, not clearing them.Expectations should be managed when starting a meditation practice.A moment of clarity can be as brief as a second.Regular practice can lead to longer moments of focus over time.Meditation is a skill that develops with practice.The idea of achieving a 'Zen' state is often misleading.Mindfulness can be integrated into daily life.It's important to approach meditation with an open mind.Finding peace in the present moment is the ultimate goal.Connect with Rob DubeBook Rob to Speak - https://robdube.com/imageOne - https://www.imageoneway.com/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robdubeThe 10 Disciplines - https://www.the10disciplines.com/New Book: SHINE - https://www.the10disciplines.com/shine/