From Fed Job to Fearless CEO: Shelby's Journey from Federal Employee to Entrepreneur Without Losing Her Mind

From Fed Job to Fearless CEO: Shelby's Journey from Federal Employee to Entrepreneur Without Losing Her Mind

In this episode of Pass The Mic, brought to you by Resilient Voice Media, host Gabi Garland introduces Shelby, a fractional CFO and founder of the Boardroom Collective. One year after leaving a stable, high-paying federal career, Shelby opens up about the fears, identity shifts, and challenges that came with betting on herself. She reflects on trading security for freedom, rebuilding confidence through small daily choices, and reframing her experience into entrepreneurship. Her story is a powerful reminder that reinvention isn't one bold moment — it's thousands of quiet decisions to keep going. Timestamps Introducing the Guest, Shelby (00:00:33) The co-host introduces Shelby, who left a secure federal job to build her own business, setting the series theme. One Year Since Leaving a Federal Career (00:02:06) Shelby reflects on the one-year anniversary of leaving her stable job, describing it as an insane but necessary decision. The Reality of Betting on Yourself (00:03:21) Shelby discusses the high cost of entrepreneurship, including losing comfort and certainty, but gaining confidence, freedom, and personal growth. Shifting from Fear to Possibility (00:04:36) Shelby explains how she changed her mindset from fearing failure to asking, "What if this works?" and choosing herself repeatedly. Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'A year ago I thought I was just leaving a job, but what I found was I was leaving a whole past identity.' 'I was leaving the version of my life that made sense on paper and choosing something that only made sense in my soul.' 'Betting on yourself will ask a lot of you; it will ask for your comfort, your certainty, and definitely your ego.' 'I found that I was really afraid of the unknown, but I started asking myself something different: "What if this works?"' 'Betting on yourself isn't this one big, grand moment; it's a thousand tiny moments where you just have to decide.' RESOURCES: Connect with Shelby: No Bull Books [https://nobullbooks.org/?fbclid=IwZnRzaARt50RleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe_DKDCXmxqlRi2opvAYk6z_vSAo60du3R4F5xV-e-yWUfHAY0xhY9URzioUY_aem_6qJr2YNq3LaSsPirNHKc4w] Connect With Me: Gabi Garland Website: https://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/ [https://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/ [https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/] FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Resilient Heart Podcast on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-resilient-heart-podcast/id1527076930] Podcasts and Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5alZmhNfzy9aOvmJTOtbVT?si=72000434180f49d7] "Sometimes the biggest leap of faith is choosing yourself, even when the path ahead makes no sense on paper." Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com [https://resilientvoicemedia.com/] Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

Faith Over Fear with Jennifer Bierfeldt: A Real Estate Journey of Resilience and Reinvention

In this episode of the Pass the Mic Podcast, host Gabi interviews Jennifer Bierfeldt, a top-performing real estate agent, former healthcare professional, and trusted industry leader known for her tenacity, professionalism, and client-first approach. With years of experience in both healthcare and real estate, Jennifer brings empathy, active listening, and unwavering integrity into every client relationship, creating a smooth, informed, and stress-free experience for buyers and sellers alike. Jennifer shares her journey from a St. Louis upbringing to building a successful real estate career in California, balancing motherhood, family priorities, and professional growth. Known for going above and beyond—whether helping first-time buyers, managing long-distance transactions, or protecting her clients' interests—Jennifer's story reflects resilience, authenticity, and purpose-driven leadership. She also opens up about personal transitions, including divorce, rebuilding her life, and becoming a grandmother, offering powerful insights on resilience, self-belief, and living by the principle of "faith over fear." This episode offers listeners a heartfelt and inspiring look at navigating life changes, building trust-based success, and creating a meaningful career rooted in service, family, and integrity. Key Topics & Timestamps Jennifer's Early Life & Education (00:02:53) Jennifer shares about her upbringing, family moves, education, and early interest in healthcare. Healthcare Career & Family Beginnings (00:03:47) Jennifer discusses her healthcare roles, marriage, having three sons, and balancing work and family. Transition to Real Estate (00:06:06) Jennifer explains her move from healthcare to real estate, influenced by family needs and economic changes. Starting Real Estate During the Market Crash (00:06:44) Jennifer recounts entering real estate in 2007 during the housing market crash and learning through challenges. Translating Healthcare Skills to Real Estate (00:08:10) Jennifer connects her active listening and communication skills from healthcare to her real estate approach. Balancing Motherhood and Career (00:10:12) Jennifer reflects on prioritizing family, finding support, and setting boundaries for work-life balance. Raising Three Boys & Involving Them in Business (00:12:42) Jennifer shares stories about raising her sons, including bringing them to work and teaching them life skills. Lessons Passed to Her Children (00:15:44) Jennifer discusses how her professionalism and communication influenced her sons' personal and professional growth. Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent (00:26:04) Jennifer offers advice on questions to ask when selecting an agent, emphasizing trust and professionalism. Defining Success in Real Estate (00:28:28) Jennifer shares her personal benchmarks for success: client satisfaction, smooth transactions, and meaningful relationships. Transitioning After Divorce (00:30:22) Jennifer opens up about the challenges of divorce, rebuilding her life, and the empowerment of making independent choices. Building a New Life & Law of Attraction (00:33:02) Jennifer discusses envisioning her future, embracing the law of attraction, and focusing on daily progress. Family Support & Strong Female Role Models (00:39:06) Jennifer credits her resilience to strong women in her family and the support of her children. Becoming a Grandmother (00:40:14) Jennifer joyfully describes her experience as a grandmother and the fulfillment it brings. Final Advice: Faith Over Fear (00:44:44) Jennifer shares her mantra of "faith over fear," encouraging perseverance and self-belief through life's transitions. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Jennifer, 'I am not pushy. I want to be the one people quietly trust.' Jennifer, 'When I got the notification that the divorce was final, it really was like something had been lifted, and it felt like the whole world was open to me again.' Jennifer, 'I have a 100% track record of getting through all of these other hard things. I'm going to get there.' Jennifer, 'There were times I cried, I yelled at the pillow, and I kicked things. Then I picked myself up and moved on, just kept going, minute by minute, day by day, step by step.' Resources CONNECT with Jennifernifer Bierfeldt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jennifern4realty [https://www.facebook.com/jenn4realty] Website: https://jenn4realty.com/ [https://jenn4realty.com/] Connect with the Show Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of genius Resilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great work Host: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice Media February Guest Host: Jennifernifer Bierfeldt, Top-Performing Real Estate Agent, Former Healthcare Professional, and Client-Focused Industry Leader A Resilient Voice Media Production * To work with us submit inquiry at www.resilientvoicemedia.com [http://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/] * Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media [https://www.facebook.com/Garland.Gabi] * CONNECT WITH GABI: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.anaya.5] * FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Pass the Mic podcast on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pass-the-mic-podcast/id1811631268] Podcasts and Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/388L9AaTLb0QZqft1U3Aka?si=dc0d88ee69884a5b] * Pass the Mic Opportunities: Contact Resilient Voice Media for information about hosting your own month in 2026.

From Fear to Freedom: Redefining Your Narrative with Mariela Ayala

In this Season 2 kickoff of the Pass the Mic Podcast, guest host Mandy Schulis—a transformational Narrative Coach, trauma-informed Licensed Massage Therapist, creator of The Story Shift, and author of 48 Hours to Change Your Life—interviews Mariela Ayala in a powerful conversation centered on personal growth, resilience, and self-love. Drawing from two decades of entrepreneurial experience and her personal triumph over domestic violence, Mandy explores how overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing vulnerability, and shifting old narratives can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life. Through honest reflection and thoughtful dialogue, the episode touches on health transformation, the importance of boundaries, and the role of community in healing and growth. Blending coaching methodologies with holistic healing practices, including Reiki, Mandy highlights embodied leadership and the transformative power of owning and sharing your story. This episode encourages listeners to take responsibility for their narratives, pursue meaningful change, and boldly step into their next chapter with intention and courage. Key Topics & Timestamps Defining Story Shifting (00:04:10) Explains what story shifting means to her and the importance of learning and unlearning. The Power of Knowing What You Want (00:05:40) Discussion about self-love, clarity on desires, and moving beyond surface-level thinking. Pivotal Moments: Weight Loss & Identity (00:08:26) Mariela shares her journey through weight loss, misdiagnosis, and breaking free from limiting beliefs. The Deeper Why Behind Transformation (00:16:08) Exploring Mariela's motivations beyond health, focusing on life goals and confidence. Healthy Habits for Future Generations (00:19:28) Emphasizes the importance of modeling healthy habits for children and building a positive family culture. The Power of Food & Challenging Norms (00:20:03) Discussion on the impact of food, breaking away from prescribed norms, and embracing flexibility. Challenging Old Narratives & Embracing Authenticity (00:22:17) Talks about the difficulty of letting go of old stories and the value of authentic connections. Transitioning from Illness to Professional Life (00:24:34) Describes her shift from living with illness to navigating the professional world and networking. Reframing the Story: Embracing Faith & Self-Investment (00:28:08) Shares how embracing both her faiths and investing in herself led to personal growth. Learning to Love Yourself (00:31:30) The conversation centers on self-love, societal expectations, and the challenges of identity. Manifesting & Preparing for Partnership (00:39:28) Discussion about manifesting the right partner, setting intentions, and the importance of clarity. Envisioning Family & Parenting (00:45:17) Describes her vision for parenting, family life, and being present with her future children. Creating Community & Embracing Joy (00:49:36) Expresses her desire to build joyful, authentic relationships and community experiences. Advice to Her Past Self (00:51:08) Shares what she would tell her younger self about resilience and self-worth. Letting Life Be Easier & Inviting Support (00:54:00) Reflects on learning to let others in and making life less difficult by accepting help. Looking Ahead: Next Chapter & Coaching (00:56:22) Discusses her future plans, including coaching and helping others shift their mindset around food. Taste Buds & Food as Medicine (00:57:27) A brief discussion on how taste buds change and the impact of food choices on health. Final Words on Story Shifting (00:59:20) Offers advice on shifting your story, meeting new people, and finding emotional safety. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Mariela, "I said no to say yes to myself, because you say no to things, to past versions of yourself, to embrace new versions of yourself." Mariela, "When you put yourself first, you're not putting anybody last, because people that respect you will respect that you're doing what you need to do to better yourself." Mariela, "My disability was my identity; that's all I knew. When I learned I was misdiagnosed, my circle became a cage and I knew I had to break free." Mariela, "I don't want to die with 'what if.' This is a journey of a lifetime. I get to plan for more than a day because I'm alive." Mariela, "I started to embrace myself as a whole. When I was a service to myself, I was investing in myself to be strong, because I am a foundation trying to help others build." Resources CONNECT with Mandy Schulis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis [https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr [https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/] Book: 48 Hours to Change Your Life: https://amzn.to/49gBXFS [https://amzn.to/49gBXFS] Connect with the Show Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of geniusResilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great workHost: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice MediaJanuary Guest Host: Mandy Schulis, Transformational Narrative Coach & Creator of The Story Shift A Resilient Voice Media Production * To work with us submit inquiry at www.resilientvoicemedia.com [http://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/] * Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media [https://www.facebook.com/Garland.Gabi] * CONNECT WITH GABI: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.anaya.5] * FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Pass the Mic podcast on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pass-the-mic-podcast/id1811631268] Podcasts and Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/388L9AaTLb0QZqft1U3Aka?si=dc0d88ee69884a5b] * Pass the Mic Opportunities: Contact Resilient Voice Media for information about hosting your own month in 2026.

Stop Being the "Leftover" in Your Own Life: Time to Shift Your Story!

In the Season 2 kickoff of Pass the Mic, guest host Mandy Schulis—a transformational Narrative Coach, trauma-informed Licensed Massage Therapist, and creator of The Story Shift—explores how the stories we tell ourselves shape our lives, businesses, and sense of self. Drawing from two decades of entrepreneurial experience and her personal triumph over domestic violence, Mandy introduces "story shifting," the process of recognizing and rewriting limiting personal narratives. As the author of 48 Hours to Change Your Life, Mandy weaves together coaching methodologies, nervous system awareness, and holistic healing practices to show how intentional language and embodied leadership can create lasting change. Through personal reflection and practical tools, she guides listeners in identifying unhelpful patterns, practicing self-compassion, and reclaiming their stories as powerful assets for growth and transformation. This episode invites listeners to take ownership of their narratives and step boldly into more empowered, intentional chapters of their lives. Key Topics & Timestamps Challenging Stagnation and Inviting Growth (00:02:20) The importance of choosing yourself, embracing discomfort, and recalibrating for growth in the new year. Mandy's Approach to Story Shifting (00:02:55) Mandy explains the concept of story shifting and its role in her coaching practice. Meeting People Where They Are (00:03:29) Using her massage therapy background, Mandy illustrates the importance of meeting clients where they are in their stories. Personal Story: Accepting Leftovers (00:04:31) Mandy shares her realization about accepting less in relationships and how that shaped her self-worth. High School & Relationship Patterns (00:05:29) A personal anecdote about dating, self-worth, and repeating unhealthy relationship patterns. The Power of Story Shifting (00:07:28) How acknowledging and shifting personal narratives can change self-perception and life outcomes. Manifestation and Creating Reality (00:08:29) Discussion on how beliefs and words shape reality, with examples from Mandy's life and her daughter's experiences. Words Matter & Nervous System Awareness (00:09:29) Exploring how self-talk affects the nervous system and the importance of positive internal dialogue. Belief and Embodiment (00:10:32) The necessity of believing in your own worth and embodying new stories for transformation. Relationship Evolution and Self-Reflection (00:11:39) Mandy reflects on her marriage, past relationships, and how changing her story led to deeper connections. The Brain's Focus and Self-Talk (00:12:30) How the brain fixates on repeated negative statements, reinforcing unwanted outcomes. Changing Physical and Emotional Stories (00:13:24) Mandy shares her journey with weight gain, health challenges, and the process of shifting her physical and emotional stories. Seeking Help and Healing (00:15:21) The importance of seeking support and the parallels between physical healing and story shifting. Belief Becomes Reality (00:16:12) How repeated stories, even if untrue, become internalized and shape identity. Breaking Generational Patterns (00:20:56) Mandy discusses breaking cycles of addiction and domestic violence, and setting new standards for herself and her daughter. Deciding What You Want (00:22:05) The power of clarity and decisiveness in manifesting what you truly desire. Pitfalls and Timeline Collapsing (00:30:24) Common mistakes in story shifting, the concept of "timeline collapsing," and when rapid change is possible. Small Changes and Evidence Gathering (00:31:21) The importance of noticing small shifts and gathering evidence to support your new story. Nonlinear Progress and Toxic Positivity (00:33:23) Acknowledging that growth isn't linear, avoiding toxic positivity, and finding meaning in difficult experiences. Taking Control and Sharing Your Story (00:35:18) Empowering listeners to take control of their stories and encouraging them to share their journeys. Powerful Quotes from the Episode "I was trying to prove I was worthy of love every time I was dating someone." "I never saw myself as a prize; I never saw myself as someone who brought things to the table or was a good wife or mother." "My husband looked at me and said, 'You teach people how to story shift—why don't you help yourself if you're so busy helping everyone else?'" "It was the first time in my life I decided I really deserved the absolute best—not only for myself, but for my daughter." "When you're so sick of your own bullshit, you say, 'I've had enough, we're not doing this anymore.'" Resources CONNECT with Mandy Schulis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis [https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr [https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/] Book: 48 Hours to Change Your Life: https://amzn.to/49gBXFS [https://amzn.to/49gBXFS] Connect with the Show Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of geniusResilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great workHost: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice MediaJanuary Guest Host: Mandy Schulis, Transformational Narrative Coach & Creator of The Story Shift A Resilient Voice Media Production * To work with us submit inquiry at www.resilientvoicemedia.com [http://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/] * Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media [https://www.facebook.com/Garland.Gabi] * CONNECT WITH GABI: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.anaya.5] * FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Pass the Mic podcast on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pass-the-mic-podcast/id1811631268] Podcasts and Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/388L9AaTLb0QZqft1U3Aka?si=dc0d88ee69884a5b] * Pass the Mic Opportunities: Contact Resilient Voice Media for information about hosting your own month in 2026.

Rewire Your Brain: How Changing Your Language Can Change Your Life

In the Season 2 kickoff of Pass the Mic, guest host Mandy Schulis—a transformational Narrative Coach, trauma-informed Licensed Massage Therapist, creator of The Story Shift, and author of 48 Hours to Change Your Life—explores how the language and stories we tell ourselves shape our reality. Drawing from two decades of entrepreneurial experience and her personal triumph over domestic violence, Mandy shares how reframing limiting beliefs and adopting empowering narratives can transform relationships, careers, and self-worth. She introduces practical tools such as the "48-hour rule" and "bridge language," guiding listeners to observe, challenge, and intentionally rewrite their stories. Blending coaching methodologies with holistic healing practices, including Reiki, Mandy emphasizes that our stories are powerful tools for healing, connection, and meaningful impact. This episode invites listeners to take responsibility for their self-talk, embrace change, and step confidently into a more empowered, intentional life. Key Topics & Timestamps Why Words Matter (00:02:52) Mandy explains the importance of language in shaping mindset and manifestation. The Impact of Limiting Phrases (00:03:25) Discussion of how phrases like "I'm trying," "I can't afford," and "I'm so bad at" limit potential. The Power of Narrative and Safety (00:04:41) How narratives affect nervous system safety and personal outcomes. Money Mindset: "I Can't Afford" (00:09:11) How language around money shapes financial reality and identity. Words as Commands to the Brain (00:10:16) How every word you speak programs your brain and influences outcomes. Neuroscience and Story Shifting (00:13:02) The role of neuroplasticity and the reticular activating system in changing your story. Auditing Your Language (00:14:38) Practical steps to become aware of and shift your self-talk. The Story Behind the Words (00:15:44) Exploring the deeper beliefs behind limiting language and how to reframe them. Inherited Money Stories & Overspending (00:17:42) Mandy discusses inherited beliefs about money and the habit of overspending to help others. Reframing Identity Statements (00:19:52) Transforming labels and diagnoses into empowering narratives. Claiming New Identities Through Language (00:20:13) How to use language to claim new, empowering identities and shift your story. Real-Life Applications: Business, Relationships, Career (00:22:54) Examples of story shifting in entrepreneurship, relationships, and career transitions. The 48-Hour Rule & Story Audit Challenge (00:26:51) Mandy's 48-hour challenge to observe and audit your self-talk and stories. Interrupting Old Stories & Practicing New Language (00:27:47) Techniques for catching and replacing limiting stories in real time. Bridge Language & Social Accountability (00:28:49) Using transitional language and community support to accelerate story change. Final Thoughts: You Have the Power (00:30:57) Encouragement to take responsibility for your story and embrace the power of language. Powerful Quotes from the Episode "You are living the story you have created for yourself with the words you speak and the language you use." "You have the power and the responsibility to change your story." "Every word you speak is a command to your nervous system." "When I shifted my narrative, I went from having just a few clients to more clients than I knew what to do with, and I actually had to close my books at the end of last year." "If you walk away with one thing from this episode, it's that you have the power and the responsibility to change your story, should you dare." Resources CONNECT with Mandy Schulis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis [https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr [https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/] Book: 48 Hours to Change Your Life: https://amzn.to/49gBXFS [https://amzn.to/49gBXFS] Connect with the Show Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of geniusResilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great workHost: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice MediaJanuary Guest Host: Mandy Schulis, Transformational Narrative Coach & Creator of The Story Shift A Resilient Voice Media Production * To work with us submit inquiry at www.resilientvoicemedia.com [http://www.resilientvoicemedia.com/] * Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media [https://www.facebook.com/Garland.Gabi] * CONNECT WITH GABI: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.anaya.5] * FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Pass the Mic podcast on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pass-the-mic-podcast/id1811631268] Podcasts and Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/388L9AaTLb0QZqft1U3Aka?si=dc0d88ee69884a5b] * Pass the Mic Opportunities: Contact Resilient Voice Media for information about hosting your own month in 2026.