The Chris Voss Show Podcast – Mari Anne Snow CEO, Founder of Sophaya & The Remote Nation Institute

Antoinette Lee’s Journey: From Injury to Inspiring New Normals Theamericanadventuresportsclub.org NNBL.blog https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-normal-big-life/id1820645689 About the Guest(s): Antoinette Lee, MBA, is an 11-year US Army veteran and a prominent figure in the outdoor industry as an influencer, model, and consultant. She is a health and wellness columnist at Culturs Magazine and the founder of the American Adventure Sports Club, a nonprofit organization. Antoinette is also a motivational health and wellness speaker and hosts the New Normal Big Life blog and podcast. She is recognized for her remarkable recovery journey from a traumatic brain injury, spinal injury, and PTSD, showing others how to create their new normal and dream their best life. Episode Summary: In this captivating episode of The Chris Voss Show Podcast, host Chris Voss welcomes Antoinette Lee, a trailblazer in health and wellness and a decorated US Army veteran. Antoinette shares her inspiring journey from significant health challenges to thriving as an outdoor adventure enthusiast and motivational speaker. Her unique experiences and perspectives are a treasure trove of insights, particularly about overcoming adversity and fostering resilience. The conversation delves into Antoinette’s background, discussing her military service and the injuries that changed her life. She elaborates on her journey of recovery and self-discovery, transitioning from a tech CEO to a sponsored adventure sports athlete. Antoinette explains the importance of gratitude, resilience, and the concept of creating a ‘new normal.’ This episode is rich with keywords like “health and wellness,” “resilience,” “traumatic brain injury recovery,” and “adventure sports,” making it a must-listen for anyone looking to embrace life’s challenges with vigor. Key Takeaways: Resilience and Adaptation: Antoinette exemplifies how to adapt and thrive despite severe injuries, showcasing the power of resilience. New Normal Concept: The importance of redefining life goals and aspirations after significant life changes, a strategy Antoinette shares from personal experience. Outdoor Adventures for Healing: Emphasizes the role of outdoor activities in personal recovery and health, promoting active lifestyles for mental and physical well-being. Gratitude as a Foundation: Highlights the empowering effects of gratitude as a tool for facing life’s toughest challenges. Support through Community: The significance of support networks and community, particularly through her work with youth and seniors in adventure camps. Notable Quotes: “If I make it one more day, I’m gonna figure out why I’m so sick and tired and turn around and help others.” “Life is suffering for us all. The beauty of it is because you’ve gone through some difficult times, you really appreciate the good times.” “I wanted it to be a big life. Four years after that vision, I was living that life.” “It’s how you handle the bad times that positions you to thrive during the good times.” “50% of what makes you who you are comes from your genetics, but 40% comes from lifestyle changes.”

20 Nov 31min

Legend of Dabi: Volume One by DoDeHi https://www.amazon.com/Legend-Dabi-One-DoDeHi/dp/1917553196 Legend of Dabi: A Fiery Battle Between Good and Evil in a Dystopian World Dive into Legend of Dabi, a gripping supernatural fantasy set in a dystopian wild west with Native American roots. In the broken world of Eden, where injustice, discrimination, and despair reign, a young outcast named Dabi is condemned as a villain. But as dark forces rise, Dabi discovers his true calling—transforming from a weak vagabond into a reluctant hero. In this epic journey of resistance, Dabi must unite the divided and lead a fight against an ancient evil that threatens to consume everything. Filled with rich world-building, Native American influences, and wild western dystopian elements, Legend of Dabi is a must-read for fans of mature fantasy dramas, supernatural battles, and stories of redemption. If you enjoy immersive fantasy worlds like Game of Thrones or The Dark Tower, and powerful tales of resistance, you’ll be captivated by Legend of Dabi. About the author Dorian D. Hill was born and raised in Southfield, Michigan. As a child, Dorian had an amazing imagination to escape his harsh reality by being bedridden due to his chronic illness that inspired him to do what only his body could manage, and that was to create fantasy and dramatic storytelling. Now as a healthy adult, Dorian dreamed of seeing his storytelling published and inspiring his readers for the same sense of thrilling escape from reality as he did when he was a child.

20 Nov 24min

Only So Many Shopping Days till Christmas: The Ultimate Guidebook on How To Have A Good Time Before You Go by Jane Grecsek, Haley Grecsek https://www.amazon.com/Only-Many-Shopping-Days-Christmas/dp/B0DPPCDPWY “Only So Many Shopping Days Till Christmas” offers a refreshing perspective on the inevitable journey of aging, delivered with a blend of humor, practical wisdom, and candid reflections. This engaging guide encourages readers to face life’s challenges with resilience and a hearty dose of laughter. The book opens by acknowledging the inevitability of aging through humorous anecdotes and relatable stories. It sets the tone for a realistic yet optimistic view of getting older, emphasizing that laughter is indeed the best remedy for life’s trials. Profanity is sprinkled throughout the book, not just for shock value but because sometimes that’s the best way to get the message across. Let’s be real: it’s about saying what many of us are surely thinking as we face the changes that come with aging. One of the central themes of the book is the idea of meaningful struggle. Life is filled with unavoidable pain and challenges, but finding purpose and meaning in these struggles makes the journey worthwhile. Through various life experiences and reflections, the authors illustrate how to navigate these difficulties with grace and determination, offering both humor and realism to show you how to take the next step. A significant portion of the book focuses on the concept of building the life you want. Drawing from their professional and personal backgrounds, the authors provide practical advice on shaping a life aligned with one’s passions and values. This theme is explored in several chapters, offering readers actionable steps to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Another recurring theme is the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in the face of adversity. The authors share personal stories of confronting life’s obstacles head-on and finding reasons to laugh even in challenging times. Each chapter is filled with creative ideas and solutions to overcome the perplexities of aging. From the exhilarating thrill of driving a Lamborghini to the audacious fun of planning a big, extravagant funeral party, the book covers a spectrum of activities that range from the practical to the extreme. Readers will find suggestions for taking dance lessons, buying a fabulous wig, and even going skydiving. These activities, while some more extreme than others, are all aimed at inspiring readers to embrace life fully and fearlessly. Throughout the book, the interplay between the authors’ perspectives creates a dynamic and engaging narrative. Their intergenerational bond adds depth to the discussions, highlighting how different generations can learn from and support each other. “Only So Many Shopping Days Till Christmas” is a heartfelt celebration of life, resilience, and the power of laughter. It offers readers not only practical advice for navigating adulthood’s complexities, but also inspiration to embrace life’s journey with joy and optimism. This book is a guide on the attitude and actions you need to take to live fully and authentically. Whether you’re seeking guidance or simply a good laugh, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the ups and downs of life with a bit of profanity, a lot of humor, and an unwavering sense of realism.

18 Nov 40min

A Talent for Giving: Creating a more generous society that benefits everyone by John Studzinski https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Giving-Creating-generous-benefits/dp/1399418793 “A guide for how all of us can make a difference in the lives of others.” Michael Bloomberg “Made me really think about what it means to give, to care, to be generous.” Sir Grayson Perry Reclaim your individual impact with ‘entrepreneurial giving’. It’s time to democratize generosity and impact so YOU can make a difference. Philanthropy isn’t just about wealth – it’s about creativity, passion, and using your unique talents to contribute to what you believe in. Visionary investor and humanitarian John Studzinski challenges the traditional notion that philanthropy is reserved for the ultra-rich, revealing how anyone, regardless of financial means, can become a force for change. This groundbreaking book introduces entrepreneurial giving – a hands-on approach to philanthropy that harnesses skills, expertise, and resources. Through thought-provoking insights, A Talent for Giving offers a powerful new roadmap for impact. More than a guide, this book is a call to action. Whether you’re an executive, an artist, a teacher, or an activist, your talents have the power to transform lives. The future of giving isn’t about writing cheques – it’s about reimagining what’s possible. And it all starts with you. About the author John Studzinski, CBE is an American-British investment banker and philanthropist. Since September 2018, he has been Managing Director and Vice Chairman of the global investment management firm PIMCO. In his philanthropic activities, he consistently emphasizes the importance of human dignity and the role in philanthropy of mentoring and active networks. In 2008, he was awarded a CBE for his Services to the Arts and Charity and his philanthropy has been recognized with awards from Pope John Paul II, the Prince of Wales (2014) and the Beacon Prize.

18 Nov 39min

Join the Inner Circle: Transform Your Business with Expert Guidance Optimizebusinesssystems.com About the Guest(s): Hector Alvarado is a seasoned Canadian entrepreneur and operations strategist renowned for his expertise in multifamily real estate investment. As the co-founder of Optimized Business Systems (OBS), alongside Willie Smit, Hector boasts 27 years leading large-scale operations for Fortune 500 companies. He turned a company losing $1 million per quarter into a $35 million success, exemplifying his talent in transforming business chaos into structured success. A dedicated family man and lifelong fitness enthusiast, Hector channels his discipline from the gym into his business strategies, emphasizing the power of systems, accountability, and leadership. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss welcomes Hector Alvarado, a Canadian entrepreneur, to delve into the transformative potential of structured business systems. Hector, co-founder of Optimized Business Systems, shares his extensive knowledge in turning chaotic businesses into structured powerhouses. With a background in multifamily real estate investment and a legacy of turning a failing company into a multimillion-dollar success, Hector provides listeners with insights into creating a thriving business environment. The conversation covers the critical role of community and mentorship in entrepreneurship. Hector emphasizes the importance of having a supportive network like the Inner Circle podcast community, where entrepreneurs can share, learn, and grow without judgment. The discussion also highlights the necessity of accountability and the invaluable lessons that can be gleaned from shared experiences. Reflecting on personal anecdotes and market insights, this episode promises a rich learning experience for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Key Takeaways: Community and Support: Entrepreneurs benefit immensely from being part of a community where they can share experiences and gain actionable insights without judgment. Structured Systems: The implementation of structured frameworks in businesses can help transform chaos into clarity, enabling sustained success. Learning from Experience: Emphasizes the importance of mentorship and using previous experience to guide and inform business decisions. Mindset Matters: Maintaining a positive mindset and being open to feedback is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving business success. Scalability: Recognizing when a business is ready to scale and how structured systems can facilitate this process is essential for growth. Notable Quotes: “Leadership is about raising others. And that’s why the community was built.” – Hector Alvarado “We created a safe space for entrepreneurs to be open and honest about their learning experience and their building experience.” – Hector Alvarado “The importance of community allows for learning best practices as well as pitfalls.” – Chris Voss “Our approach is mentorship. We believe our pitfalls can teach others to avoid doing those things.” – Hector Alvarado “Experience matters. What we bring to the table is not theory; this is real-world stuff.” – Hector Alvarado

18 Nov 39min

RESILIENCE by Barak Zilberberg https://www.amazon.com/RESILIENCE-Barak-Zilberberg/dp/B0D8GGKTP9 Barakzilberberg.com In “From Humble Beginnings: The Journey of Barak Zilberberg,” embark on an inspiring and compelling tale of resilience, perseverance, and triumph. Barak Zilberberg invites readers to explore his remarkable life story, tracing his roots back to his grandparents who survived the atrocities of World War II and the Holocaust. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, their strength and determination laid the foundation for Barak’s journey. Born into a typical Jewish family, Barak’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome the odds. With captivating honesty, he reveals the trials and tribulations he faced, mirroring the humble beginnings of renowned figures like Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and Howard Schultz. These icons, much like Barak, started with little but their dreams and unyielding willpower.

18 Nov 31min

Midnight Flyboys: The American Bomber Crews and Allied Secret Agents Who Aided the French Resistance in World War II by Bruce Henderson https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668051419 Brucehendersonbooks.com The untold history of a top-secret operation in the run-up to D-Day in which American flyers and Allied spies carried out some of the most daring cloak-and-dagger operations of World War II. In 1943, the OSS—precursor to the CIA—came up with a plan to increase its support to the French resistance forces that were fighting the Nazis. To start, the OSS recruited some of the best American bomber pilots and crews to a secret airfield twenty miles west of London and briefed them on the intended mission. Given a choice to stay or leave, every airman volunteered for what became known as Operation Carpetbagger. Their dangerous plan called for a new kind of flying: taking their B-24 Liberator bombers in the middle of the night across the English Channel and down to extremely low altitudes in Nazi-occupied France to find drop zones in dark fields. On the ground, resistance members waited to receive steel containers filled with everything from rifles and hand grenades to medicine and bicycle tires. Some nights, the flyers also dropped Allied secret agents by parachute to assist the French partisans. Though their story remained classified for more than fifty years, the Carpetbaggers ultimately received a Presidential Unit Citation from the US military, which declared: “it is safe to say that no group of this size has made a greater contribution to the war effort.” Along with other members of the wartime OSS, they were also awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Based on exclusive research and interviews, the definitive story of these heroic flyers—and of the brave secret agents and resistance leaders they aided—can now be told. Written in Bruce Henderson’s “spellbinding” (USA TODAY) prose, Midnight Flyboys is an astonishing tale of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice. About the author Bruce Henderson is the author of more than twenty nonfiction books, including the #1 New York Times bestseller AND THE SEA WILL TELL, which was made into a highly-rated TV series. His latest book, SONS AND SOLDIERS: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE JEWS WHO ESCAPED THE NAZIS AND RETURNED WITH THE U.S. ARMY TO FIGHT HITLER, hit the New York Times Bestseller List in 2018. Henderson’s previous books include RESCUE AT LOS BANOS: THE MOST DARING PRISON CAMP RAID OF WORLD WAR II, and HERO FOUND: THE GREATEST POW ESCAPE OF THE VIETNAM WAR, a national bestseller which told the true story of U.S. Navy pilot Dieter Dengler, with whom Henderson served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger (CVA-61) during Vietnam. Henderson is also the author of TRACE EVIDENCE: THE HUNT FOR THE I-5 SERIAL KILLER and FATAL NORTH: MURDER AND SURVIVAL ON THE FIRST NORTH POLE EXPEDITION. An award-winning journalist and author, he has taught reporting and writing at USC School of Journalism and Stanford University.

16 Nov 22min

Shattered Dreams—But Hope: Encouragement for Caregivers of Huntington’s Disease and Other Progressive Illnesses by Laquita Higgs, Elton Higgs https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Dreams-But-Hope-Encouragement-Huntingtons/dp/1400329523 Shattered Dreams–But Hope by Drs. Laquita and Elton Higgs, is a book of both testimony and advice: testimony born out of the school of trial and suffering, and advice born out of practical experience in being long-term caregivers. Laquita and Elton have for the last 26 years been caregivers to two adopted daughters with early onset Huntington’s Disease (HD), which is hereditary, and they offer a gripping account of their extended experience in adjusting to the challenges of long-term caregiving, followed by sober practical counsel to others who are involved in similar caregiving experiences. A final chapter speaks specifically of the role of Christian faith in coping with the stresses of their long struggle. In the Appendices are a short talk given after Cynthia’s funeral by her older sister Liann and several poems by Elton on the emotional impact of his and Laquita’s relationship with their disabled daughters. The complexity of the story told by the Higgses is heightened by the fact that their two youngest adopted daughters are mother (Cynthia) and biological daughter (Rachel). Elton and Laquita adopted Cynthia as a baby, knowing that she had HD in her background but hoping and praying that she would not develop the disease. Her childhood was normal, but when she became an adolescent, she began to manifest behavioral aberrations that her parents later recognized as being consistent with early onset HD. At age 25, Cynthia was diagnosed as having the disease, and soon afterward she became pregnant with Rachel. Since it was apparent that she could not function as a single mother, Laquita and Elton agreed to adopt Rachel at birth. This action ushered them into a complicated care-giving relationship that has lasted for more than 25 years. Laquita and Elton emphasize the difficult but necessary development of trust in God’s goodness and a deep conviction that He is at work even when we can perceive no immediate evidence of it. Especially poignant is their very personal confession of their mistakes in caring for their HD-affected daughters and their struggles to understand that HD, not mere perversity, was the primary source of their daughters’ irrational and angry behavior. Thus, they had to accept that expecting their daughters to be normally responsible persons was both futile and unproductive. Instead, they had to learn simply to love them with God’s love and to pray constantly for God’s wisdom in carrying out their task. It is from this perspective of learning to survive through hardship that Laquita and Elton tell their story and offer both practical and spiritual counsel for caregivers everywhere. About the author I am a retired professor of English living in Jackson, MI, with my wife of almost 64 years, Laquita, who is also a retired professopr and writer. I was educated and raised in Texas, receiving my undergraduate degree from Abilene Christian College in 1961. I earned a Ph.D in English from the University of Pittsburgh in 1965 proceeded to join the faculty at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where I spent 36 years. I have written scholarly articles on medieval and Renaissance authors such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Milton. I have also published a book of poems entitled “Probing Eyes: Poems of a Lifetime.” My writing is strongly informed by my Christian faith, reflecting my extensive biblical studies and involvement in church life.

15 Nov 31min