Most Parents Respond Wrong When Kids Criticize Themselves

From Academy Owner to Building a 7-Figure Marketing Empire

What happens when a martial arts school owner stops thinking like an instructor… and starts thinking like an operator? Today’s guest went from running a martial arts academy in Tampa… to becoming one of the most recognized marketing and business consultants in the martial arts industry. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Educator. Entrepreneur. Founder of an 7-figure marketing company. She’s helped martial arts school owners across the country scale enrollment, improve retention, and build real business systems through Grow Pro Agency and MAIA. But this story isn’t just about marketing. It’s about evolution. Stepping from academy owner… to consultant… to CEO. Today we’re talking leadership, systems, growth, mindset, and what it really takes to scale beyond yourself. Let’s dive in.

Summer Growth Matters: How to Give Your Kids a Break Without Letting Them Fall Behind

Summer should be a time for kids to rest, recharge, and make memories—but it shouldn't become three months of drifting without purpose. In this episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, John Geyston explores the important balance between relaxation and growth during summer break. While children absolutely need time away from the pressures of school, they also need structure, positive habits, and opportunities to continue developing emotionally, mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually. You'll discover: ✅ The difference between healthy rest and stagnation ✅ Why summer habits often carry over into the school year ✅ How to create a balanced summer schedule without overloading your child ✅ Practical ways to build confidence, responsibility, and resilience during the summer months ✅ Why growth doesn't have to stop just because school is out Whether you're a parent, coach, teacher, or mentor, this episode will help you create a summer experience that is fun, memorable, and meaningful—while continuing to prepare your child for success in life. Because summer isn't just a break from learning. It's an opportunity for growth. 🎧 Listen in and discover how to help your child rest well, grow intentionally, and return to the school year stronger than ever. johngeyston.com

Rediscovering Yourself: Identity, Self-Love & Rebuilding Life in Midlife

What happens when the life you've built no longer feels aligned with who you're becoming? In this inspiring episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, host John Geyston sits down with entrepreneur, athlete, and Woman in Bloom founder Mandy DeCino for a powerful conversation about transformation, self-discovery, and learning to embrace the next chapter of your life. Mandy shares her personal journey of navigating identity shifts, rebuilding confidence, and finding purpose during seasons of change. From endurance sports and mountain climbing to entrepreneurship and personal growth, she reveals how small daily habits, intentional self-reflection, and self-compassion can help us move from simply surviving to truly thriving. Together, John and Mandy explore the challenges many women face in midlife, the importance of self-love and healing, and why personal growth often begins when life forces us to let go of who we were so we can become who we're meant to be. If you've ever felt stuck, lost, disconnected, or uncertain about what's next, this episode will remind you that growth is not about becoming someone new—it's about rediscovering who you truly are. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to navigate major life and identity transitions • Why self-love is a practice, not a destination • The power of micro-habits in creating lasting change • How gratitude and self-reflection accelerate personal growth • Why breakdowns often become breakthroughs • How to embrace the woman—or person—you are becoming This conversation is a powerful reminder that every season of change carries the opportunity for growth, healing, and transformation. 🎧 Listen now and discover how to bloom right where you are planted.

Most Parents Respond Wrong When Kids Criticize Themselves

When your child says: “I’m stupid.” “I can’t do anything right.” “I’m the worst.” Most parents immediately rush to fix it.   But what if reassurance alone isn’t enough? In this powerful episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, John Geyston breaks down why children often reject encouragement when emotions are running high — and what parents should do instead. You’ll learn a simple but life-changing process to help children: * Recognize negative self-talk * Process difficult emotions in healthy ways * Reframe destructive thoughts * Build emotional resilience * Develop an inner voice rooted in truth instead of fear Because confidence isn’t built by pretending hard feelings don’t exist… It’s built by teaching children how to respond to them. This episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, teachers, and anyone who wants to help children develop emotional strength, self-awareness, and lasting confidence from the inside out. www.johngeyston.com

From Saving Children to Chasing Country Music Dreams: The Reinvention of Mark “Big Guy” Bott

What happens when a man who helped protect over ONE MILLION children steps into the spotlight with a guitar and a dream? In this powerful episode, Mark “Big Guy” Bott shares his incredible journey from nationally recognized child safety advocate working alongside John Walsh… to launching a rising country-rock music career with Big Guy and the Mob. This conversation is about purpose, resilience, reinvention, and refusing to let your past define your future. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to evolve, grow, or chase a new dream… this episode is for you. 🔥 Leadership 🔥 Adversity 🔥 Music 🔥 Mission 🔥 Reinvention 🎧 Listen now on the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast.