The Impact Code

Unlock the Secrets of Storytelling: Jill McCorkle on Regret, Resilience, and Creativity

Summary In this episode of The Impact Code, host Brett Hollenbeck engages with acclaimed author Jill McCorkle, exploring her insights on storytelling, the themes of regret and resilience, and the influence of fairy tales on modern narratives. Jill shares her creative process, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in writing and the need to balance profound themes with relatable experiences. She offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to embrace freedom in their first drafts and to understand the complexity of human emotions in character development. In this conversation, Jill McCorkle discusses the complexities of the creative process, the importance of embracing failure, and the evolution of her writing style. She reflects on the challenges of engaging both long-standing and new readers in a digital age, the influence of place on her narratives, and the significance of character development. Jill emphasizes the need for balance in storytelling and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision amidst the pressures of the publishing industry. Takeaways * All the work leading up to that moment is necessary and worthwhile. * Characters often confront their regrets, shaping their narratives. * Fairy tales serve as moral lessons and emotional touchstones. * A positive ending is about recognition and acceptance. * Writing requires a balance between the mundane and the profound. * Truth in writing can be liberating and transformative. * Understanding opposing perspectives enriches character development. * The creative process is a journey of discovery. * Aspiring writers should avoid self-censorship in early drafts. * The human experience is complex and multifaceted.  * Embracing failure is essential for artistic growth. * Doubt can hinder creativity, but letting go can lead to beauty. * The evolution of character development is crucial for depth. * Place significantly influences emotional landscapes in narratives. * Navigating reader expectations requires understanding personal growth. * Artistic vision must be preserved despite publishing pressures. * The creative process is a journey of continuous learning. * Characters should be multi-dimensional to resonate with readers. * Finding balance in storytelling is a daily challenge. * Stories reflect universal human experiences and emotions. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Creation 03:04 Exploring Regret and Resilience 05:58 The Influence of Fairy Tales 08:52 Balancing Profound Themes with the Mundane 12:08 Tapping into Truth in Writing 14:49 Understanding Characters and Perspectives 17:59 Advice for Aspiring Writers 27:53 Embracing Failure as a Path to Growth 31:54 Navigating Reader Expectations in a Digital Age 36:37 The Evolution of Character Development 42:47 The Influence of Place on Narrative 49:56 Staying True to Artistic Vision in Publishing Connect with Jill: * Jill on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/jill.mccorkle [https://www.instagram.com/jill.mccorkle] * Jill's Website | https://www.jillmccorkle.com/  [https://www.jillmccorkle.com/%20] This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out! * Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://www.towercommunitybank.com/] * Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/ [https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/] * Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank [https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank] Connect with Brett: * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/ [https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/] * Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com [podcast@towercommunitybank.com] Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review. Thank you for listening!

How Local Leaders Are Creating Thriving Communities—And What You Can Learn | Beth Lothers

Summary In this conversation, Brett Hollenbeck speaks with Beth Lothers, a former mayor of Nolensville, Tennessee, about her journey in local politics, community leadership, and her passion for history and music. They discuss the importance of self-discovery, the challenges of engaging a community in change, and the balance between honoring tradition and embracing progress. Beth shares her experiences in public service, the initiatives she led, and her insights on fostering community connections through events and projects. Additionally, they explore her writing journey and the surprising historical discoveries she made while co-authoring a book about Nolensville. In this conversation, Beth discusses her journey in preserving the history of Nolensville through photography, the importance of community engagement, and her passion for music. She reflects on the challenges of sharing her creative side while serving in public office and emphasizes the significance of embracing vulnerability in artistic expression. Beth also shares her current projects, including grant writing for community development and the arts, and highlights the importance of honoring local heroes and their legacies. Takeaways * Self-discovery is a lifelong journey. * Public service can be fulfilling without being political. * Change is inevitable; how we manage it matters. * Community engagement is crucial for successful development. * Balancing tradition and progress is a challenge for leaders. * Collaboration and networking are key to community success. * Proud achievements often stem from collective efforts. * History can reveal surprising stories about a community. * Writing can be a powerful tool for preserving history. * Embracing new ideas requires humility and respect.  * The importance of preserving community history through photographs. * Engaging families in sharing their historical images can enrich local narratives. * Learning is a continuous journey, even for those in leadership roles. * Honoring the legacy of community heroes can inspire future generations. * Music can serve as a powerful tool for community connection and celebration. * Vulnerability in creative expression can lead to deeper connections with others. * It's essential to support local arts and culture for community enrichment. * Grant writing can be a vital skill for community development projects. * Embracing all parts of oneself, including creative passions, is crucial for personal growth. * Community events can foster unity and appreciation for local history.  Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery 01:33 Local Politics and Community Leadership 03:00 From Political Science to Public Service 09:43 Engaging the Community in Change 12:05 Navigating Resistance to Change 18:46 Proud Achievements in Community Development 22:07 Balancing Tradition and Progress 28:20 Exploring Nolensville's History Through Writing 35:21 Preserving Community History Through Photography 39:52 The Journey of Learning and Growth 44:14 Honoring Legacy and Community Heroes 47:10 The Intersection of Music and Community 52:31 Embracing Vulnerability in Creative Expression 01:03:35 Current Projects and Future Aspirations Connect with Beth: * Beth Lothers on LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-lothers-30344a157/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-lothers-30344a157/] This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out! * Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://www.towercommunitybank.com/] * Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/ [https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/] * Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank [https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank] Connect with Brett: * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/ [https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/] * Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com [podcast@towercommunitybank.com] Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review. Thank you for listening!

Sean Swarner on The Power of Hope in Overcoming Challenges

Summary In this episode of The Impact Code, host Brett interviews Sean Swarner, a cancer survivor and world-renowned adventurer. Sean shares his incredible journey of defying the odds and overcoming unimaginable challenges. The conversation revolves around the power of hope, defining personal core values, and the importance of mindset in achieving goals. Sean emphasizes the need to focus on what you want rather than what you want to avoid, and the significance of internal motivation over external motivation. He also discusses the role of family and the impact of self-talk in shaping one's identity and actions. Sean Swarner shares his experience of climbing Mount Everest with one lung and overcoming high-altitude cerebral edema. He emphasizes the importance of having a deeper purpose and using it as motivation to keep going. Sean also talks about the power of signs and the impact of his flag with names of people touched by cancer. He encourages people to find a deeper reason to keep moving forward during difficult times. Sean discusses the significance of ego and confidence, and the importance of removing ego to be receptive to advice and suggestions for improvement. He highlights the value of respecting each other's stories and differences to create a better world. Sean shares a powerful story of saving a woman's life through his presentation and emphasizes the impact we can have on others without even realizing it. He advises people to focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past, and to be mindful of their thoughts and beliefs. Sean also encourages people to take the Big Hill Challenge and start with deep self-reflection to discover who they are and what they want in life. Takeaways * Hope is crucial in overcoming obstacles and maintaining a positive mindset. * Defining personal core values helps guide decision-making and provides a sense of purpose. * Focusing on what you want, rather than what you want to avoid, leads to greater fulfillment and success. * Internal motivation is more sustainable and impactful than external motivation. * Family plays a significant role in shaping one's values and actions. * Positive self-talk and a strong sense of identity are essential for personal growth and achievement.  * Having a deeper purpose can provide motivation and strength during difficult times. * Removing ego allows for personal growth and improvement. * Respecting each other's stories and differences can create a better world. * Our actions and words can have a profound impact on others, even if we are not aware of it. * Focusing on the present and future is more productive than dwelling on the past. * Self-reflection is essential for discovering who we are and what we want in life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Sean Swarner's Journey of Resilience 08:04 Discovering and Living by Your Personal Core Values 34:19 Overcoming High Altitude Cerebral Edema 46:25 The Profound Impact of Our Actions 55:15 Projecting Yourself in the Future 01:02:37 Removing Ego for Personal Growth 01:09:05 Self-Reflection: Discovering Who You Are Connect with Sean: * Sean Swarner Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/seanswarner/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/seanswarner/?hl=en] * Sean Swarner Website | https://www.seanswarner.com/ [https://www.seanswarner.com/] * The Big Hill Challenge | https://www.thebighillchallenge.com/ [https://www.thebighillchallenge.com/] * True North Documentary on Prime | https://www.amazon.com/True-North-%20Sean-Swarner-Story/dp/B07LBCSFCD [https://www.amazon.com/True-North-%20Sean-Swarner-Story/dp/B07LBCSFCD] This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out! * Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://www.towercommunitybank.com/] * Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/ [https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/] * Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank [https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank] Connect with Brett: * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/ [https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/] * Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com [podcast@towercommunitybank.com] Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review. Thank you for listening!

Zak Hazlett on Believing in Your Worth: Practicing Self Compassion

Summary Zak Hazlett, also known as the Outdoor Therapist, combines his love for the outdoors with his professional training in therapy to bring healing and growth to individuals and relationships. He emphasizes the importance of love, kindness, and understanding in his work, aiming to be the friend to himself that he needed during his own difficult times. Zak believes that being a friend to oneself is challenging because of the negative self-talk and the narratives we create about ourselves. He encourages people to recognize their worth and value and to be their own biggest cheerleader and support. In this conversation, Brett and Zak discuss the importance of living authentically and letting go of other people's expectations. They share personal experiences of facing fears and finding relief in being true to themselves. They also explore the power of vulnerability, the value of relationships, and the impact of our actions and words on others. Zak shares his journey as an outdoor therapist and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and self-care. He encourages listeners to believe in their own worth and to prioritize meaningful connections with others. Takeaways * Love, kindness, and understanding are essential in therapy and personal growth. * Being a friend to oneself is challenging due to negative self-talk and self-created narratives. * Recognizing triggers and understanding their underlying causes can lead to personal growth. * Setting boundaries is important for maintaining healthy relationships. * Self-compassion and self-love are crucial for personal growth and mental health.  * Living authentically and letting go of other people's expectations is essential for personal happiness and fulfillment. * Vulnerability and selflessness are key ingredients for strong and successful relationships. * Believing in your own worth and practicing self-compassion are crucial for personal growth. * Balancing work and relationships is important, and prioritizing meaningful connections with others brings more joy and fulfillment. * Engaging in outdoor activities and spending time in nature can have a healing and transformative effect on individuals and relationships. Chapters 00:00 The Transformative Power of Nature and Therapy 06:27 Recognizing Triggers and Understanding Their Causes 13:17 Self-Compassion and Self-Love: The Path to Personal Growth 38:46 Balancing Work and Relationships: Prioritizing Meaningful Connections 01:05:22 The Healing and Transformative Power of Nature Connect with Zak: * Zak Hazlett Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/the_outdoor_therapist/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/the_outdoor_therapist/?hl=en] * Get Outside Together Website | https://www.getoutsidetogether.com/ [https://www.getoutsidetogether.com/] This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out! * Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://www.towercommunitybank.com/] * Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/ [https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/] * Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank [https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank] Connect with Brett: * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/ [https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/] * Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com [podcast@towercommunitybank.com] Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review. Thank you for listening!

Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr on The Power of Taking Action and Working Hard

Summary Nikolay shares his journey from teaching to traveling the world and becoming a YouTuber. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and creating a positive routine to live a fulfilling life. He encourages gratitude and positive self-talk as essential practices for overcoming challenges and finding happiness. Nikolay emphasizes the importance of building positive habits and routines to maintain gratitude and positivity. He shares his journey into music and the impact it has had on his life. Nikolay discusses the significance of clean and motivational lyrics in his music and the influence it can have on listeners. He also highlights the importance of self-improvement and building strong relationships in pursuing big goals and making a positive impact in the world. Takeaways * Taking action and working hard can lead to unexpected opportunities * Creating a positive routine and practicing gratitude can improve overall well-being * Positive self-talk is crucial for overcoming challenges and finding happiness * Living in the present moment and appreciating what we have can bring fulfillment  * Building positive habits and routines is essential for maintaining gratitude and positivity. * Clean and motivational lyrics in music can have a positive impact on listeners. * Self-improvement and personal growth are crucial in pursuing big goals and making a positive impact. * Building strong relationships and connections is key to success in business and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 08:01 Creating a Positive Routine for a Fulfilling Life 16:01 Overcoming Challenges with Positive Self-Talk 28:48 Embracing Multiple Talents and Passions 35:28 The Impact of Clean and Motivational Lyrics 42:22 Building Strong Relationships and Connections Connect with Nikolay: * Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr. Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/nikotjr/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/nikotjr/?hl=en] * Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr. Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMKtVajpbhjwLpk6uZvtZcA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMKtVajpbhjwLpk6uZvtZcA] This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out! * Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://www.towercommunitybank.com/] * Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/ [https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/ [https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/] * Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank [https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank] Connect with Brett: * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/] * Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/ [https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/] * Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com [podcast@towercommunitybank.com] Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review. Thank you for listening!