Spark Series, Episode 6: Story, Purpose, and Impact

Spark Series, Episode 6: Story, Purpose, and Impact

Introduction The Sparks Series is a special series within The SoulFire Sessions. While our regular episodes explore a wide range of conversations around purpose, leadership, and growth, the Sparks Series is dedicated to spotlighting purpose-driven leaders who are creating meaningful impact in their work and communities. Each episode centers on their story, their leadership, and the moments that sparked the work they're doing today. Summary In this episode of the Sparks Series, Mariah Newman turns the microphone around to interview July Spark, Alex Widener, a coach, consultant, podcast host, and storyteller who believes every person has a story worth telling. Together, they explore the experiences that shaped Alex's leadership philosophy, the role faith and healing have played in her journey, and why she believes leadership is more about influence than titles. From higher education and coaching to Celebrate Recovery and storytelling, Alex shares how learning to ask better questions has transformed the way she leads and serves others. This conversation is a reminder that purpose isn't something you have to have all figured out before you begin. Sometimes it's been woven through your story all along. Takeaways ~ Leadership is about influence, not titles. ~ Every person has a story worth telling. ~ Asking better questions is often more powerful than giving advice. ~ Purpose doesn't require having everything figured out. ~ Healing begins when people feel safe enough to be honest. ~ Authenticity creates connection, courage, and growth. ~ The greatest impact we leave is often found in how we make people feel. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Sparks & Turning the Microphone Around 02:10 A Different Definition of Leadership 07:55 "She's Just a Secretary": A Defining Leadership Moment 14:20 Influence, Relationships & Becoming the Leader You Needed 22:45 The Impact We Leave on Others 27:30 Storytelling, Faith & Discovering Purpose 32:40 Coaching Through Questions Instead of Answers 37:15 Purpose While You're Still Figuring It Out 39:10 Closing Reflections Connect with Alex Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmwidener/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alex.musgrove.9 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandriamwidener/ Keywords Alex Widener; Sparks Series; SoulFire Sessions; leadership; leadership podcast; authentic leadership; purpose; storytelling; influence; coaching; personal growth; faith; healing; Celebrate Recovery; emotional intelligence; curiosity; career transitions; women in leadership; identity; community; finding your spark Connect with The SoulFire Collective Website: thesoulfire.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/ [https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/]

Financial Series, Episode 3: Future-Proof Your Finances

Introduction This Money Matters for Real People series is designed to explore the intersection of financial strategy, mindset, and long-term decision making. Each episode breaks down complex financial topics into clear, actionable insights to help individuals, families, and business owners make more confident financial decisions. Summary In this episode of Money Matters for Real People, Cristina Easterling and Josh Montanez explore what it means to future-proof your finances through every stage of life. From young adults just beginning their financial journey to those approaching retirement, they discuss the key decisions, habits, and mindset shifts that can help create long-term financial confidence. Together, they break down the importance of understanding your personal goals, building strong financial habits early, and adapting your plan as life changes. The conversation covers the power of mentorship, compound interest, intentional financial check-ins, and how major life events, from career changes and marriage to retirement and legacy planning, can impact your financial strategy. Cristina and Josh also discuss common financial mistakes, the importance of balancing both the offensive and defensive sides of financial planning, and why focusing on where you are today is more valuable than comparing yourself to where you think you should be. Listeners will walk away with practical insights for building a financial plan that can grow and adapt alongside their life. Disclosure Please remember that all investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Indexes and/or benchmarks are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. Returns represent past performance, are not a guarantee of future performance and are not indicative of any specific investment. Members use Montanez Wealth Advisors as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (Investment Brokerage Services), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC and Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (Investment Advisory Services) , a federal savings bank. NM and its subsidiaries are in Milwaukee, WI. To view detailed disclosures regarding individual representatives, view their information at www.montanezwealth.com. Key Takeaways ~ Financial planning should evolve as your life, goals, and circumstances change. ~ Starting early allows compound interest and good habits to work in your favor. ~ Major life events are a good time to revisit and adjust your financial plan. ~ Consistent financial check-ins help keep your goals and strategy aligned. ~ Retirement planning is about lifestyle and purpose, not just accumulating money. ~ Legacy planning should reflect your values and long-term priorities.  ~ A strong financial plan includes both growth opportunities and risk protection. ~ The best time to start paying attention to your finances is today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Future-Proofing Your Finances 05:00 Financial Planning Through Life's Transitions 10:00 Building Habits That Last 14:00 Preparing for Retirement 17:20 Common Financial Planning Mistakes 20:00 Legacy Planning and Long-Term Goals 24:00 Balancing Growth and Protection Connect with Josh Montanez Scheduling Link: 15 Minute Phone Call with Josh Montanez [https://www04.timetrade.com/app/nwmf/workflows/NWMUTUAL-RLPA/schedule?resourceId=5zqfny7zt8&appointmentTypeGroupId=uc7hwa8x&appointmentTypeId=h2yf4t8n] Instagram: Montanez Wealth Advisors Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/montanezwealthadvisors?fbclid=IwY2xjawQuKwlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFtcDJ2Vlk4eGlnR08zSXpUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpUa63SwZ3vkKAcQ_eV9dBcOgzKit4aLOz7YmfNdrKVtnM1b7en6w_mCzxey_aem_00zLlFaSHagrlzsplwLXVA] Facebook: Montanez Wealth Advisors Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/NM.JoshMontanez] LinkedIn: Josh Montanez LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-montanez-cfp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-crps%E2%84%A2-29162b52/] Keywords Financial planning; investing by age; retirement planning; compound interest; money mindset; financial goals; wealth building; financial habits; financial confidence; legacy planning; mentorship; emergency fund; life transitions; financial wellness  Connect with The SoulFire Collective Website: thesoulfire.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/ [https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/]

Spark Series, Episode 5: Purpose, Presence & Reconnection

Introduction The Sparks Series is a special series within The SoulFire Sessions. While our regular episodes explore a wide range of conversations around purpose, leadership, and growth, the Sparks Series is dedicated to spotlighting purpose-driven leaders who are creating meaningful impact in their work and communities. Each episode centers on their story, their leadership, and the moments that sparked the work they’re doing today. Summary In this episode of Sparks, Alex sits down with June Spark, Alex Hawkins, founder of Wildwood Connections, a nature-based community experience company helping people reconnect with themselves, each other, and the outdoors. After years of pursuing success as a compliance lawyer, Alex found herself burned out, disconnected, and questioning whether the path she had worked so hard to achieve was truly her own. What followed was a season of slowing down, healing, and rediscovering what brought her to life. Together, Alex and Alex explore burnout, perfectionism, identity, entrepreneurship, the healing power of nature, and the courage it takes to choose a different path. They discuss the importance of listening to your body, finding community during seasons of transition, and why resilience sometimes looks less like pushing through and more like stepping back. This conversation is a reminder that purpose isn't always found by doing more. Sometimes it's found by slowing down enough to hear what's calling you forward. Takeaways ~  Burnout can be an invitation to reevaluate what truly matters.   ~  The path that looks successful isn't always the path that's right for you.  ~  Resilience isn't about pushing through everything—it can also mean resting and recalibrating.  ~  Nature has a unique ability to reconnect us with ourselves and what matters most.   ~  Community and meaningful connection are powerful catalysts for healing and growth.    ~  Small, intentional habits can create lasting change over time.  ~  It's never too late to come back to yourself.  Chapters 00:00:  Welcome to Sparks & Introducing Alex Hawkins  04:45: Life on the Achievement Treadmill  10:40: The Conversation That Changed Everything  17:15: Burnout, Resilience & Choosing a Different Path  16:20: Identity Beyond Job Titles & Leadership Through Influence 26:30: Healing Through Nature  36:00: Building Wildwood Connections  40:55: Advice for Finding Your Spark 47:10: Connecting with Alex & Final Reflections    Connect with Alex Website:  https://www.wildwoodconnections.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildwoodconnections Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578799715588 [https://www.facebook.com/NM.JoshMontanez] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexehawkins/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-montanez-cfp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-crps%E2%84%A2-29162b52/] Email:  wildwoodconnections@gmail.com  Keywords Alex Hawkins; Wildwood Connections; Sparks Series; SoulFire Sessions; burnout recovery; nature connection; purpose-driven leadership; authentic leadership; entrepreneurship; personal growth; resilience; outdoor wellness; community building; identity and purpose; Northwest Arkansas; women entrepreneurs; finding your spark  Connect with The SoulFire Collective Website: thesoulfire.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/ [https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/]

Spark Series, Episode 4: Connection, Community, and Belonging

Introduction The Sparks Series is a special series within The SoulFire Sessions. While our regular episodes explore a wide range of conversations around purpose, leadership, and growth, the Sparks Series is dedicated to spotlighting purpose-driven leaders who are creating meaningful impact in their work and communities. Each episode centers on their story, their leadership, and the moments that sparked the work they’re doing today. Summary In this episode of Sparks, Alex sits down with May Spark Kelley Drebes, a leader whose impact is rooted in connection, community, and helping people feel like they belong. Known by many as a “human dot connector,” Kelley shares how experiences of loneliness and searching for community shaped the way she leads today. Through mentorship, culture-building, intentional relationships, and creating spaces where people feel seen and valued, Kelley has built a leadership style grounded not in authority, but in influence and authenticity. Together, Alex and Kelley explore leadership beyond titles, workplace culture, mentorship, motherhood, friendship, books that shaped them, and the importance of staying true to yourself in every season of life. This conversation is a reminder that leadership is not about position, but rather it’s about how we show up for the people around us.  Takeaways ~ Leadership is about influence, not authority.  ~ Community and belonging can change lives.  ~ People want to feel seen, heard, and valued.   ~ Authenticity matters in every season of life.   ~ Small acts of connection can change someone’s world.    ~ Creating belonging starts with intentional relationships.   ~ Your spark and purpose may evolve through different seasons of life. Chapters 00:00: Welcome to Sparks & Introducing Kelley Drebes 03:55: What It Means to Be a “Human Dot Connector” 06:45: Loneliness, Community & Why Connection Matters 10:40: The Questions Kelley Uses to Truly Know People 16:20: Identity Beyond Job Titles & Leadership Through Influence 20:40: Kelley’s Career Journey in Healthcare & Walmart 24:15: Growing a Mentorship Community Through Connection 28:25: Family, Reading, Friendship & Life Outside of Work  Connect with Kelley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelleydrebes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KelleyRaeBell [https://www.facebook.com/NM.JoshMontanez] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelleydrebes/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-montanez-cfp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-crps%E2%84%A2-29162b52/] Favorite Book (A Raisin in the Sun): walmart.com  [https://www.walmart.com/ip/A-Raisin-in-the-Sun-9780679755333/379801?classType=VARIANT&from=/search] Keywords Kelley Drebes; Sparks Series; SoulFire Sessions; connection; community; belonging; leadership; mentorship; authentic leadership; workplace culture; women in leadership; human connection; personal growth; leadership podcast  Connect with The SoulFire Collective Website: thesoulfire.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/ [https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/]

Financial Series, Episode 2: Your Money Blueprint

Introduction This Money Matters for Real People series is designed to explore the intersection of financial strategy, mindset, and long-term decision making. Each episode breaks down complex financial topics into clear, actionable insights to help individuals, families, and business owners make more confident financial decisions. Summary In this episode of Money Matters for Real People, Cristina Easterling and Joshua Montanez discuss the foundations of creating a financial plan and why understanding where you are financially is the first step toward building confidence with money. Together, they explore how to inventory your finances without judgment, identify personal financial goals, and create a plan that reflects your real life—not someone else’s.  The conversation also breaks down Josh’s simple “bucket” approach to money management, covering cash flow, savings, investments, and the role credit can play in long-term planning. Listeners will learn why automation, consistent check-ins, and realistic goal setting can help reduce financial stress and create greater peace of mind over time.  Disclosure Please remember that all investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Indexes and/or benchmarks are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. Returns represent past performance, are not a guarantee of future performance and are not indicative of any specific investment. Members use Montanez Wealth Advisors as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (Investment Brokerage Services), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC and Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (Investment Advisory Services) , a federal savings bank. NM and its subsidiaries are in Milwaukee, WI. To view detailed disclosures regarding individual representatives, view their information at www.montanezwealth.com.  Connect with Josh Montanez: Scheduling Link: 15 Minute Phone Call with Josh Montanez [https://www04.timetrade.com/app/nwmf/workflows/NWMUTUAL-RLPA/schedule?resourceId=5zqfny7zt8&appointmentTypeGroupId=uc7hwa8x&appointmentTypeId=h2yf4t8n] Instagram: Montanez Wealth Advisors Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/montanezwealthadvisors?fbclid=IwY2xjawQuKwlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFtcDJ2Vlk4eGlnR08zSXpUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpUa63SwZ3vkKAcQ_eV9dBcOgzKit4aLOz7YmfNdrKVtnM1b7en6w_mCzxey_aem_00zLlFaSHagrlzsplwLXVA] Facebook: Montanez Wealth Advisors Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/NM.JoshMontanez] LinkedIn: Josh Montanez LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-montanez-cfp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-crps%E2%84%A2-29162b52/] Keywords: Financial planning; money mindset; budgeting; savings; investing; retirement planning; emergency funds; debt management; financial goals; wealth building; money habits; financial confidence; financial wellness; financial literacy Connect with The SoulFire Collective Website: thesoulfire.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/ [https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/]