ASQ Podcast

Hosted by ASQ

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100

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Jul 2026

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About the show

The ASQ Podcast is a show about what it actually costs to lead something that matters, and what it takes to do it without losing yourself in the process. It began as a Hero's Journey show: conversations with people who faced a defining challenge, went through the fire of it, and came out the other side having built something for the benefit of others. That origin is still the pulse of everything the show produces. Every guest who sits down with Dr. Jessie and Omar Ferreira is in the middle of an arc, or has completed one, that most leadership content refuses to take seriously: the inner journey that runs underneath every organizational challenge, and the structural transformation that becomes possible when a leader stops trying to fix from the outside what can only be addressed from within. ASQ's governing principle is embedded in every episode: leadership that begins within is the only kind that lasts. The show has evolved from those early Hero's Journey conversations into something more precise. Omar and Jessie now bring their full diagnostic lens to the table: the Fractal Coherence Methodology, the Quarry-to-Orchard framework, the research on why mission-driven organizations break their best people, and the structural path toward something genuinely different. But the show's depth has not changed. It is still about the human being underneath the title. The leader who chose something hard and is learning what that choice requires of them. The ASQ Podcast is not an inspirational show. It does not offer ten habits or a morning routine. It offers what its audience actually needs: precision. The experience of being named. A structural understanding of why the weight they're carrying is as heavy as it is, and what it looks like when leaders build the conditions that make the weight sustainable, or unnecessary. Hosted and co-hosted by Dr. Jessie and Omar Ferreira, the ASQ Podcast publishes weekly and is home to the conversations that the rest of the leadership podcast world is circling without landing. Lead Your Life. Shape Your Culture. Begin Within.

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60 recent

February 11, 2026Episode 14743 min

When Success Feels Empty: Career Burnout, Motherhood & Finding Soul-Aligned Work

In this honest and deeply human conversation, Dr. Jessie sits down with Rachel Spekman for a powerful exploration of identity, career, grief, intuition, and what it truly means to live a soul-aligned life. Rachel shares her journey from growing up in a family shaped by survival, achievement, and resilience—rooted in Holocaust legacy and generational perseverance—to building a successful career that looked right on paper, yet increasingly felt misaligned on the inside. Raised with a strong emphasis on gratitude, productivity, and “making it,” emotional needs were often met outside the family system through chosen community, mentors, and relationships. This conversation traces Rachel’s courageous pivot—from senior leadership and corporate environments to taking a “large adult calculator risk,” returning to school later in life, and becoming a therapist. Today, she brings together therapy and career coaching to help others move from burnout and disconnection to clarity, alignment, and purpose-driven work. This episode explores: • Growing up in a family shaped by survival, achievement, and generational trauma • Identity, privilege, gratitude, and emotional suppression • Finding connection through chosen family and mentors • Career success without fulfillment and early signs of burnout • Infertility, pregnancy loss, motherhood, and emotional awakening • Workplace loyalty, imbalance, and unseen emotional labor Rachel’s story is grounded, compassionate, and deeply validating—especially for those who appear capable and accomplished on the outside, yet feel disconnected, exhausted, or quietly longing for more. This episode is for anyone navigating career dissatisfaction, identity shifts, motherhood, grief, burnout, or the brave question: Is this really the life I’m meant to be living? Connect with Rachel Spekman: 🔹Career Coaching: https://www.rachelspekman.com/ 🔹LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelspekman/ 🔹Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelSpekmanCareerConsulting/about 💬 If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your biggest takeaway in the comments. #CareerPivot #SoulAlignedWork #WomenInLeadership #BurnoutRecovery #MotherhoodJourney #CareerCoaching #EmotionalHealing #MidlifeShift #PurposeDrivenLife #TherapistJourney #InnerAlignment #MadeForMore

July 20, 2026Episode 1721 hr 8 min

The Courage to Ask “Why Not?” | Audley Stephenson

In this powerful episode of the ASQ Podcast, Omar and Jessie sit down with Audley Stephenson, host of the Audacious Living Podcast, to explore courage, curiosity, forgiveness, and what it truly means to live audaciously. Born to Jamaican immigrant parents and raised primarily by a resilient single mother, Audley's early life was shaped by examples of sacrifice, determination, and possibility. Although he didn't realize it at the time, those experiences planted the seeds for the work he does today. As a young man, Audley dreamed of working in sports. What started as an internship eventually evolved into podcasting, leadership opportunities, interviews with NBA legends, and a career built around meaningful conversations. Along the way, he discovered that some of life's greatest opportunities begin with a simple question: Why not? One of the most powerful moments of the conversation comes as Audley shares the story of reconnecting with his father after decades of absence. Through that experience, he reveals how curiosity, understanding, and forgiveness can create healing where resentment often keeps people stuck. When the pandemic brought basketball to a halt, Audley lost the thing that had fueled much of his identity. That unexpected season of uncertainty forced him to reflect on the common thread running through his life In this episode, you'll hear about: • Growing up as the son of Jamaican immigrants • Lessons learned from a strong single mother • The power of curiosity and exploration • Building a career through podcasting and sports • Reconnecting with an absent father • Forgiveness and emotional freedom • Why failure is often misunderstood • The relationship between courage and purpose • How asking "Why not?" can transform your life The transformational shift Audley's story reminds us that audacity isn't reserved for extraordinary people. It's something available to anyone willing to take the next step before they know exactly where it will lead. This episode is for anyone who: • Feels stuck or uncertain about their next chapter • Wants to live with more courage and intention • Is navigating forgiveness or family challenges • Believes there is more available in life than their current circumstances Sometimes the biggest opportunities in life begin with curiosity, grow through courage, and lead us somewhere we never expected. Connect with Audley Stephenson: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Audley.Stephenson Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/theaudaciouspod Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/THENBABREAKDOWN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaudman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theaudman/ #AudleyStephenson #ASQPodcast #AudaciousLiving #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #Forgiveness #Purpose #GrowthMindset #SelfDevelopment #LifeLessons Thanks For Watching

March 24, 2026Episode 15949 min

From Socially Awkward to Confident: How Introverts Master Connection | Nick Shelton on ASQ Podcast

In this engaging and eye-opening episode of the ASQ Podcast, Omar sits down with Nick Shelton — author, speaker, and connection strategist who helps introverts build powerful relationships without changing who they are. Born in Houston, Texas and later raised in Colorado, Nick’s early years were filled with stability — but also a quiet internal struggle that would shape his path. As a naturally introverted and socially awkward child, Nick found himself observing the world from the sidelines — watching others connect, communicate, and navigate social spaces with ease. But he wanted more. Nick opens up about: • Growing up introverted and struggling to connect with others • Feeling invisible despite being present in everyday spaces • Wanting opportunities — but not knowing how to access them • Developing observation as a personal superpower • Learning to navigate social situations on his own These early challenges became the foundation for transformation. Instead of withdrawing, Nick chose to study human behavior — turning social interaction into a system he could understand, practice, and eventually master. This episode explores: • The difference between introversion and social anxiety • Why connection — not confidence — is the real key to success • How small, intentional actions create powerful relationships • The role of curiosity in expanding your world • How to “gamify” life and turn fear into growth Through years of experimentation, real-world practice, and personal development, Nick created a practical framework that allows introverts to thrive socially — without pretending to be extroverted. Today, he shares these insights through his book An Introvert’s Guide to World Domination and helps others build meaningful connections in both personal and professional life. This episode is for anyone who: • Identifies as introverted, shy, or socially awkward • Struggles with networking or meeting new people • Wants to build confidence without changing their personality • Feels overlooked or unseen in social environments • Is ready to create deeper, more meaningful connections Nick’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to become someone else to succeed — you just need to understand how to use who you already are. His philosophy is simple: Stay curious. Take small steps. And turn connection into a skill you can learn. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasleonshelton/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nick.shelton.140 Website: https://nicksheltonspeaks.com/ #ASQPodcast #IntrovertLife #SocialSkills #Networking #PersonalGrowth #SelfAwareness #Confidence #HumanConnection

February 18, 2025Episode 1061 hr 0 min

Silencing Self-Doubt: Unleashing Your True Potential | ASQPODCAST E106

Ever felt paralyzed by self-doubt? You're not alone. Watch this enlightening episode of the ASQPodcast where we delve into the roots of self-doubt and equip you with strategies to overcome it. Don’t let doubt dictate your life. Tune in now and start your journey towards a confident, empowered you!

September 18, 2024Episode 9646 min

Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Strategies for Individuals and Leaders | ASQ PODCAST E96

Are you struggling with Imposter Syndrome, or do you know someone who is? Join us in this impactful episode of the ASQPodcast, "Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Strategies for Leaders and High Achievers," where we uncover the realities of this widespread phenomenon. Chronic self-doubt doesn't have to be a barrier to your success. Discover how leaders, tech professionals, and women in high positions combat the silent doubts that come with their achievements.

March 10, 2026Episode 15553 min

From Trauma to Spiritual Awakening | Laura's Journey of Healing, Resilience & Finding Your True Self

In this raw and deeply reflective episode of the ASQ Podcast, Dr. Jessie sits down with Laura Hoorweg — spiritual counselor, intuitive coach, and survivor of a life shaped by trauma, resilience, and profound spiritual awakening. From a challenging childhood in Northern Ontario to decades in the high-pressure world of advertising and marketing, Laura shares the powerful journey that ultimately led her toward a life devoted to healing and helping others reconnect with their authentic selves. Raised in a fractured family and navigating early emotional wounds, Laura spent years searching for balance while quietly carrying experiences that would later shape her spiritual calling. She opens up about: • Growing up as the middle child in a turbulent household • Being raised by a single mother and navigating a childhood filled with instability • Living with deep, suppressed rage while still being known as the “smiley” one • Self-medicating through partying and alcohol during her teens and twenties • Discovering her deep connection with nature through wilderness trips and outdoor work • Having a powerful out-of-body spiritual experience at just 15 years old For Laura, life was never just one story. It was the best of times — and the worst of times. But through every difficult chapter, something deeper was unfolding. This episode explores: • How trauma can shape resilience rather than define identity • The difference between living from pain vs. living from purpose • Why many people suppress their authentic selves to meet expectations • The role of spiritual experiences in personal transformation • Healing from childhood trauma and long-held emotional wounds After decades in corporate life, Laura reached a turning point. She realized she no longer wanted to spend her life helping companies sell things people didn’t need. Today, Laura works as a spiritual counselor and intuitive coach, helping people uncover the root causes of their struggles and reconnect with their authentic selves through spiritual guidance, intuitive insight, and lived wisdom. This episode is for anyone who: • Feels like their past still holds power over their present • Is searching for deeper meaning after hardship or loss • Has experienced spiritual moments they can’t explain • Wants to move beyond trauma and reclaim their authentic life • Feels called to healing, self-discovery, or spiritual growth Connect with Laura Hoorweg: 🔹 Website: https://www.spiritspeaks2.me/ 🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SpiritSpeaksToMe 🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoorweglaura/?hl=en 🔹 Twitter: https://x.com/HoorwegLaura 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahoorweg/ #ASQPodcast #SpiritualHealing #PersonalTransformation #TraumaHealing #AuthenticSelf #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney

January 29, 2025Episode 10440 min

Reconnecting with Your Authentic Essence During A Crisis | ASQPODCAST 104

In this transformative episode of the ASQPodcast, we delve into the profound concept of the "authentic essence" and explore how pivotal life transitions often trigger a deep yearning to rediscover this fundamental aspect of our being. Whether you're navigating a midlife crisis, career change, or personal upheaval, reconnecting with your authentic self can lead to remarkable growth and renewal. Join us as we share personal stories of dissolution and rebirth, including practical strategies to help you embrace your true essence during challenging times. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance on personal development, leadership authenticity, and finding purpose amid life's inevitable shifts.

March 13, 2026Episode 1561 hr 2 min

From the Bronx to Community Advocate | Kelly Santos on Family, Resilience, and Fighting for Children

In this thoughtful and deeply personal episode of the ASQ Podcast, Dr. Jessie sits down with Kelly Santos — nonprofit leader, community advocate, and proud daughter of Dominican immigrants whose life has been shaped by resilience, family, and a deep commitment to helping others. Born in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and raised in the Bronx, Kelly reflects on growing up in a close-knit Dominican household where discipline, community, and family responsibility were part of everyday life. Her parents immigrated to the United States with big dreams and limited resources, working tirelessly to build stability for their family. From an early age, Kelly witnessed the power of sacrifice, determination, and resourcefulness — lessons that would shape the path she chose later in life. But Kelly’s childhood also included an experience that would profoundly influence her future. She opens up about: • Growing up in a working-class Dominican family in the Bronx • Being raised by protective and deeply involved immigrant parents • Translating for her parents in schools and medical systems as a child • Watching her parents advocate for children with complex needs • Learning resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness early in life These early experiences planted the seeds for Kelly’s lifelong passion for service. She went on to study sociology, Latin American and Caribbean studies, and women’s and gender studies — exploring identity, migration, and the often overlooked roles women play in shaping communities. This episode explores: • How immigrant families pass down resilience across generations • The power of curiosity and lifelong learning • The role of community programs in supporting youth and families • Why advocacy is critical within complex systems • How personal experiences shape a life of service After graduate school, Kelly began working in nonprofit youth programs across New York City, supporting students, mentoring families, and helping bring vital resources into schools. Today, she continues her work connecting families and communities with the resources and support they need to thrive. This episode is for anyone who: • Grew up in an immigrant or multicultural household • Has had to advocate for a child or family member • Is navigating parenting challenges or developmental diagnoses • Believes in the power of community support • Wants to create meaningful impact through service Kelly’s story is a reminder that advocacy often begins at home — and that even in difficult moments, there is always an opportunity to grow, learn, and support others. Her philosophy is simple: Ask questions. Find your people. And never be afraid to ask for help. #ASQPodcast #CommunityLeadership #ImmigrantStories #Advocacy #AutismAwareness #NonprofitLeadership #Resilience #FamilySupport

July 27, 2026Episode 1781 hr 4 min

How Trauma Led Me to My Purpose | Brheanna Myers

In this thought-provoking episode of the ASQ Podcast, Omar and Jessie sit down with Brheanna Myers, founder of Light and Breezy Coaching, spiritual coach, energy healer, and creator of the Awaken Your Potential Method. In 2020, Brheanna experienced a near-death experience after a severe case of fungal pneumonia. What she encountered during that experience completely changed the trajectory of her life. Returning with a renewed sense of purpose, she began exploring spirituality, consciousness, healing, and the deeper questions surrounding why we're here. But Brheanna's journey didn't begin there. Growing up, she faced significant challenges, including childhood trauma, abandonment, instability, and experiences that left lasting emotional wounds. For years, those struggles shaped how she viewed herself and the world around her. Through healing, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration, Brheanna began to see her experiences through a different lens. Rather than viewing adversity as something happening to her, she started understanding how life's greatest challenges can become catalysts for growth, awareness, and transformation. Today, she helps others reconnect with themselves, release limiting beliefs, and move toward lives of greater purpose, alignment, and authenticity. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Brheanna's near-death experience • Spiritual awakening and transformation • Childhood trauma and healing • The power of self-belief • Consciousness and personal growth • Reconnecting with your authentic self • Living with purpose and intention • Gratitude, resilience, and perspective • Moving beyond fear and limitation The transformational shift Brheanna discovered that healing isn't about becoming someone new. It's about removing the layers, beliefs, and survival patterns that keep us disconnected from who we truly are. This episode is for anyone who: • Feels disconnected from themselves • Is navigating a difficult season of life • Wants to heal from past experiences • Is exploring spirituality and personal growth • Feels called to something greater • Wants to live with more purpose and intention Sometimes the greatest transformation isn't finding something new. It's remembering who you were before the world told you who to be. Connect with Brheanna Myers 🌐 Light and Breezy Coaching 📖 Author, Spiritual Coach & Energy Healer #BrheannaMyers #ASQPodcast #SpiritualAwakening #PersonalGrowth #Healing #SelfDiscovery #Consciousness #Purpose #Transformation #Spirituality #SelfAwareness Thanks For Watching The ASQ Podcast | Real Voices. Experiential Journeys. Transformational Impact. Hosted by Dr. Jessie and Omar Ferreira, The ASQ Podcast is the voice of the ASQ Movement—where ancient wisdom meets modern science to bring coherence to life, leadership, and organizations. Each episode bridges two interconnected journeys: The Inner Quest, focused on self-awareness, healing, identity shifts, and authentic living, and The Outer Quest, centered on conscious leadership, innovation, culture, and real-world impact. At its core, the ASQ Podcast follows a transformational pathway: Design Thinking → Human Insight → Innovation → Execution → Business & Social Impact. We begin with deep human understanding, translate insight into meaningful innovation, and move toward conscious execution that creates measurable, lasting impact. Through real stories, thought-leader conversations, and reflective dialogue, we share practical tools, psycho-spiritual perspectives, and leadership frameworks to help you navigate life transitions with clarity and purpose. This is not surface-level inspiration. This is a quest to remember who you are—and to live and lead from within. Join Our Community Subscribe and turn on notifications for weekly episodes exploring: ✔️ Identity shifts & midlife reinvention ✔️ Psychospiritual healing & soul inquiry ✔️ Conscious leadership & emotional intelligence ✔️ Archetypes, shadow work & modern mysticism ✔️ Honest conversations with visionaries, authors, and guides Find meaning. Navigate change. Live and lead fully. Explore More 🌐 Website: https://asqempowerment.com/ 🎧 Listen on all Global Podcasting Platforms Learn from real experiential journeys and apply transformational insights to your life and business. Join our masterclass: https://asqempowerment.com This is more than a podcast—it’s a movement where inner transformation becomes outer impact. Subscribe to live authentically, lead consciously, and turn insight into action. © 2026 A Soul’s Quest | ASQ Empowerment #ASQPodcast #SoulInquiry #ConsciousLeadership #TransformationalJourney #LeadFromWithin #InnerWork #HumanCenteredDesign #ExperientialJourneys

July 20, 2026Episode 1771 hr 1 min

Stop Holding On to the Past | Chip Scholz

In this insightful episode of the ASQ Podcast, Omar and Jessie sit down with Chip Scholz—coach, author, entrepreneur, and lifelong student of human potential—for a conversation about purpose, curiosity, personal growth, and what it means to live a life of meaning. Growing up in the Midwest, Chip followed a fairly traditional path. He played sports, worked in radio during college, and built a successful corporate career. But over time, he realized something important about himself: He wasn't meant to follow someone else's blueprint. As Chip navigated the corporate world, he discovered that he was less interested in fitting into systems and more interested in understanding people. That realization eventually led him to entrepreneurship, coaching, and a lifelong commitment to helping others grow. Throughout the conversation, Chip shares lessons from decades of coaching, the importance of curiosity, why so many people hold onto things that no longer serve them, and how discovering your calling often happens one experience at a time. Everything shifted after a life-altering stroke in 2012. Confronting his own mortality forced him to think differently about time, purpose, and what truly matters. Rather than slowing down, Chip became even more committed to helping others grow, learn, and become better versions of themselves. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Letting go of what no longer serves you • The difference between a job, a career, and a calling • Why curiosity is essential for growth • Entrepreneurship and personal freedom • Systemic vs intrinsic thinking • The power of meaningful relationships • Lessons learned from surviving a stroke • Finding purpose later in life • Developing yourself while helping others grow The transformational shift Chip realized that fulfillment isn't found in retirement, achievement, or holding onto the past. It's found in continuing to grow, staying useful, and helping others do the same. This episode is for anyone who: • Feels stuck between security and purpose • Is searching for meaningful work • Wants to embrace change with confidence • Is navigating a new chapter in life • Believes personal growth never ends Sometimes the most meaningful life isn't built around what you've accomplished. It's built around who you've helped become better along the way. Connect with Chip Scholz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chippturns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chipscholz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipscholz/ #ChipScholz #ASQPodcast #Purpose #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Mindset #SelfDevelopment #Coaching #MeaningfulWork #LifeLessons #Transformation

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