Encouraging the Encouragers

Hosted by Mitch Matthews

Business Entrepreneurship

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Episodes

334

Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

From a “bad-fit” job to being a “Well-Paid Encourager.” Mitch Matthews went from being a frustrated pharmaceuticals sales rep to having a top-rated podcast and selling seven figures in life coaching and motivational speaking. If you’re a coach, speaker or content creator… Mitch wants to help you! With this podcast… he’ll be sharing updates from the journey. Each short episode will provide useful business-building strategies and real-world stories that will keep YOU encouraged and help you to become the “Well-Paid Encourager” you deserve to be! #letsdothis #helovesjesusbutcussesabit

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 22, 202622 min

Feeling Stuck Mid-Career? How to Rediscover Your Spark & Build What’s Next (with John Neral)

Episode Overview If you’ve ever had that quiet (or not-so-quiet) thought… “I can’t do this forever…” …this episode is for you. Today, I’m hanging out with my new friend (and now one of my favorite humans!) - John Neral - an executive and career transition coach who knows exactly what it feels like to be successful on paper… but still feel that pull toward something MORE. After 25+ years in education - including teaching and leading at a high level - John made a bold pivot. Now, he helps mid-career professionals rediscover their spark and build careers they actually love. But here’s why I wanted him on Encouraging the Encouragers … Because if you’re a coach, speaker, or content creator (or you’re thinking about becoming one)… chances are, you’ve felt that same tug. That mix of: excitement fear and “Is this crazy?” energy In this conversation, we talk about what it really looks like to step into something new - especially when it doesn’t make logical sense to the people around you. This one is real. It’s practical. And yep… there’s a whole lot of encouragement baked in too. Here’s a peek at just SOME of what we dig into: That moment when you realize: “I can’t do this forever…” Navigating fear, uncertainty, and other people’s opinions The BIG mistake most new coaches and speakers make Why your podcast doesn’t need to be “top-ranked” to be effective Why “sucky days” are part of the process (yep… totally normal!) John is an executive and career transition coach, speaker, and host of the Mid-Career GPS Podcast . After spending more than two decades in education - impacting countless students and educators - John made the leap into coaching, where he now helps mid-career professionals navigate career crossroads with clarity and confidence. He’s also the author of Your Mid-Career GPS: Four Steps to Figure Out What’s Next and is passionate about helping people stop settling… and start building work they actually love. Connect with John: https://johnneral.com If you’re an encourager - someone who coaches, leads, speaks, or creates content - you’ve probably felt the tension of helping others… while still figuring out your own next steps. This episode is a powerful reminder: 👉 You’re not behind 👉 You’re not crazy 👉 And you’re definitely not alone Sometimes… that nudge you’re feeling? It’s not something to ignore.It’s something to explore. Let’s make this more than just a great listen… Take 5 minutes today and ask yourself: “Where in my life am I feeling that ‘I can’t do this forever’ nudge?” Don’t overthink it. Just notice it. Then take ONE small step: Journal about it Talk it out with someone you trust Or explore what “next” could look like Small steps lead to big clarity. And hey… if this episode encouraged you: Share it with a friend who’s in a season of transitionText it to a fellow coach, speaker, or encouragerAnd if you haven’t yet… leave a review for the podcast It helps more encouragers find the show… and we’re just getting started. Let’s gooooo

October 10, 202529 min

Routines Rooted in Love: Heather O’Brien’s Strategy for Peace, Productivity & Podcasting

In this episode of Encouraging the Encouragers, we sit down for a jam session with Heather O’Brien - a powerhouse encourager who’s part coach, part minister, and all heart. Heather is the host of the Heal with God podcast, a top 2.5% show globally (come on!) and she's on a mission to help people hear God's voice, find emotional healing, and live a life aligned with love and purpose. From battling anxiety and addiction to walking in more confidence and clarity, Heather brings the real, the raw, and the ridiculously practical. Whether you're coaching, creating, speaking, or simply trying to find 10 minutes to yourself… Heather’s insights on rhythms, prayer, and productivity will hit home. If you’ve ever wrestled with routine, questioned your hustle, or wanted to invite God into your business life in a deeper way… this one’s for you. _________________ 🎯 What’s your ONE THING for 2026? If you don’t know yet or if you’re ready to figure that out… EncouragerCON 2025 is for you. On 11/1 , join us for a 3-hour virtual experience designed to help Coaches, Speakers, and Content Creators cut through the noise, get 100% clear on what matters most, and build a plan to finish 2025 strong… and crush 2026. You’ll hear from top leaders who’ve simplified, focused, and scaled! AND they’ll show you how to do the same. Let’s get you the CLARITY… MOMENTUM and ENCOURAGEMENT you deserve! 🎟️ Find out more and grab your ticket at EncouragerCON.com _________________ SHOW HIGHLIGHTS: Why routines used to be a burden for Heather and how she reclaimed them with love Her two must-have morning rituals (Spoiler: one involves a closet and a string of fairy lights… no, seriously) The spiritual insight that shifted her prayer life from multitasking to transformational How she brings God into her business planning - literally holding “business meetings with God” Her flexible but intentional approach to pitching herself and growing her coaching business A behind-the-scenes look at how Heather balances it all while homeschooling three boys How having an accountability partner helps her stay in alignment with the strategies God gives her From apps she swears by (like YouVersion’s Chronological Bible Plan ) to the honest conversations she has with God and herself, Heather pulls back the curtain and gives us a refreshingly honest glimpse into what walking with purpose actually looks like in the day-to-day. Here’s how you can try it: Set aside 10–15 minutes this week. Turn off distractions, get quiet, and ask, “Lord, what do You want me to focus on this week?” Then… listen. No multitasking. No agenda. Just be still, and see what comes. Bonus: Write it down, and share it with a friend or your accountability partner. Oh… and if you try it - let me know how it goes! I’d love to hear what you experience! If this conversation encouraged you, could you take 60 seconds to leave a review ? It’s a small thing that makes a big difference in helping more encouragers find the show! And don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow coach, speaker, or creative who could use some faith-fueled inspiration today. Stay encouraged my friend… and we’ll talk soon!

October 9, 202531 min

Stop Starting Over: How Coaches and Speakers Can Grow with Podcasting

Episode Description If you’ve ever felt the pull to start a podcast but found yourself wondering “where do I even start?” - this conversation is for you. In this episode of Encouraging the Encouragers, I sit down with Stefanie Gass - a Christian business and podcast coach, a proud boy mom, and a seven-figure CEO on a mission to help women (and a few brave men!) build thriving businesses without burning out, selling out, or sacrificing faith or family. Stefanie is the host of the globally ranked Online Business for Christian Women podcast, with more than 800 episodes and over a thousand glowing reviews. So, yeah… she knows a thing or two about creating a show that grows, converts, and makes an impact. We dig into what it really takes to launch (and love) a podcast - especially if you’re a coach, speaker, or content creator who wants to connect deeply, grow your audience, and serve with purpose. _________________ 🎟️ EncouragerCON 2025 is coming! Join us on 11/1 for a powerful 3-hour virtual experience designed for Coaches, Speakers, and Content Creators who are ready to stop chasing everything ... and get laser-focused on their ONE THING for 2026. It will be packed with real strategies, no fluff, and deep encouragement from leaders who’ve walked through the fire and are ready to share what actually works right now. REACH more of the right people Generate consistent REVENUE Build in REST as you go 👉 Find out more and grab YOUR ticket now at EncouragerCON.com _________________ SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 1. Why You Shouldn’t Start a Podcast for the Money Stefanie shares why purpose and passion have to come before profit - and how that mindset shift sets you up for long-term success. 2. The Rule Most Podcasters Break (That Kills Momentum Fast) Over 90% of podcasters quit before they hit Episode 10. Stefanie explains how to stay consistent and why commitment beats “overnight success” every time. 3. How to Be “Boring” - and Why That’s Brilliant Forget fancy catchphrases and fluff. Stefanie shows how being clear and consistent is the secret to growing an audience that actually listens and buys. 4. Finding Your Micro-Micro Niche Go three layers deep to find the exact person you’re called to serve - and how to speak to them like you’re talking to one real human (not “the algorithm”). 5. Building a Podcast That Builds Your Business From SEO and keywords to keeping it simple, Stefanie shares her step-by-step approach to creating content that converts… without chaos. 📍 Connect with Stefanie: 🌐 Website: stefaniegass.com 📲 Instagram: @stefaniegass Here’s your challenge this week: 👉 If you’ve been thinking about launching a podcast - or maybe relaunching one - stop starting over. Pick ONE topic. Speak to ONE person. And record ONE episode. Don’t chase perfection - chase consistency. And hey, when you do it, let us know! We’d love to celebrate with you. Plus… if this conversation encouraged you, would you take a minute to leave a quick review for Encouraging the Encouragers ? It helps us reach more coaches, speakers, and creators who need a little hope and a good nudge to keep going. Let’s goooo! 🔥

October 6, 202534 min

Your Big Next: How to Build a Coaching & Speaking Business That Doesn’t Break Your Life with Liz Hartke

Have you ever found yourself chasing success… but feeling like you’re losing yourself in the process? In this powerful episode of Encouraging the Encouragers , we’re sitting down with someone who doesn’t just talk about legacy—she’s actively building one. Our guest is Liz Hartke —founder of Luminary Leadership Co. , host of the Your Big Next podcast, and trusted advisor to powerhouse entrepreneurs. But more than that? Liz is a homeschooling mom, a champion for values-based leadership, and someone who’s walked through the fire to reimagine what true success really looks like. We dive into what it means to grow a coaching or speaking business without sacrificing your peace, your people, or your purpose. If you’ve ever wrestled with the idea that “more” might not always mean “better”—this conversation is for you. _________________ 🎟️ EncouragerCON 2025 is coming! Join us on 11/1 for a powerful 3-hour virtual experience designed for Coaches, Speakers, and Content Creators who are ready to stop chasing everything ... and get laser-focused on their ONE THING for 2026. It will be packed with real strategies, no fluff, and deep encouragement from leaders who’ve walked through the fire and are ready to share what actually works right now. 🎯 REACH more of the right people💰 Generate consistent REVENUE 😌 Build in REST as you go! 👉 Find out more and grab YOUR ticket now at EncouragerCON.com _________________ SHOW HIGHLIGHTS: The wake-up call that changed everything for Liz - and how it shaped the concept of “Your Big Next” Why chasing growth can sometimes lead you further from the life you actually want How to know when you’re being called to something deeper… even if it’s not “bigger” The hidden costs of hustle culture for coaches, speakers, and creators A real-life story of Liz helping a client discover her Big Next - and what it meant for her family (and her career) Why your next step will likely require a version of you that you haven’t met yet Tangible strategies for building a values-driven team (even if you’re just getting started!) How to prep your business to grow—even while stepping back (hello, maternity leave!) Want Liz’s Visionary Clarity Prompts ? DM her the word “clarity” on Instagram @elizhartke Or visit: 👉 luminaryleadershipco.com/clarity This episode was a masterclass in building a business that reflects your values not just your ambition. So... ask yourself... what's something that you heard that you want to take action on? Seriously... what if you took THAT step? It doesn't have to be HUGE... but it could be the beginning of YOUR BIG NEXT! And hey... if this episode helped... please ➡️ Leave a quick review for Encouraging the Encouragers... wherever you're listening in!

June 13, 202528 min

Follow the Flow: Permission, Pivoting & Staying Out of "Burnout" Danger Zone for Coaches, Speakers and Content Creators! (YOU might really need to hear this one!)

Hey hey Encourager! 🎙️ In this soul-fueled episode, Mitch takes a fresh approach—unscripted and straight from the heart. He shares what it looks like to Follow the Flow in your coaching, content creation, and business… especially when life gets busy and burnout looms. 🔥 You'll hear: Why one of Mitch’s BEST coaching calls had nothing to do with what the client originally hired him for (and why that’s a GOOD thing). What it means to follow the flow — with intention —and how it can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. The big shift happening with Encouraging the Encouragers (yep, we’re going a bit more “random”—and here’s why). Plus… Mitch drops a few Follow the Flow Questions —simple, powerful prompts to help you get back to your best work and avoid burnout. 🎯 Here are a couple to get you started: 👉 Where am I currently doing my best work ? 👉 Who are the people I feel most energized working with? Want the rest of the questions? 💡 Tune in to the full episode and let the "FLOW" take you there. 👊 Be sure to subscribe and leave a review —your support helps Mitch keep going (and glowing!)

June 6, 202525 min

LIVE IT! - The keys to building transformative international retreats and a global coaching brand! - An interview with Eric Balance

In this jam-packed episode of Encouraging the Encouragers , Mitch sits down with Eric Balance—host of the Resilient Minds podcast and founder of Balance Media Ventures. Eric shares his personal journey from breaking free of a "bad fit" corporate experience to build a coaching business with global impact. Together, they dive into: Why Eric left success in the corporate world to pursue a life and business with more fulfillment The evolution from 1:1 coaching to transformational global retreats The 5 dimensions of conscious wealth How true relationships—not tech—have been the key factor for Eric to drive event success Why living it is the key to authentic leadership and influence 🌎 Eric’s story offers a powerful reminder: your life is the message. If you're a Coach, Speaker, or Creative who wants to grow without losing your soul—this episode is a must-listen. 🔗 Connect with Eric : Website: ericbalance.com Podcast: The Resilient Mind FREE RESOURCES: 📥 Download “44 Proven Ways to Find Your First Life Coaching Clients (and Keep Them Coming!) ➡️ mitchmatthews.com/44ways 📥 Download: "Focus 11: Prayers for Building a Coaching & Speaking Business You Love" ➡️ ⁠ mitchmatthews.com/11prayers⁠ 🔗 LET'S CONNECT: That's right! Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and/or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! 🎧 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a fellow coach and leave a review! Thanks!

May 30, 202521 min

Creating Kingdom Impact Without Burning Out: Chris Grainger on Purpose-Driven Content

In this powerhouse Jam Session, Mitch Matthews sits down with Chris Grainger — engineer turned content juggernaut and founder of The Lion Within Us , a top-tier podcast and community equipping Christian men to lead with purpose. Chris shares how he transitioned from corporate podcasting to creating over 500 episodes that inspire, challenge, and equip Christian men in their roles at home, at work, and in their faith. From interviewing icons like The "5 Love Language's" Gary Chapman, to Korn's Brian 'Head' Welch, and from Duck Dynasty -- the late great Phil Robertson -- to creating high-impact devotionals on the YouVersion Bible app (which now has nearly 1 billion downloads!), Chris is a model of aligned purpose and creative output. 🚀 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Chris prevents burnout while producing a massive volume of meaningful content. Why “having a clear why” is his ultimate secret weapon. The story behind The Lion Within Us and how Chris’ family encouraged his mission. How a surprise partnership has been a game-changer. Behind-the-scenes on launching his faith-driven leadership mastermind. The power of personal outreach and why relational marketing drives true impact. 📲 Links & Resources Mentioned: Visit Chris at: thelionwithin.us Check out his devotionals on the YouVersion Bible app Check out Mitch's free resource: Faith & Focus - 11 Prayers for Building a Business You Love! ✨ Whether you’re a Coach, Speaker, or faith-based content creator... this episode will encourage and equip you to stay the course—even when the path feels risky.

May 23, 202513 min

From Day Job to Dream Business: One Simple BUT Powerful Strategy to Help YOU Launch Your Coaching Business with Confidence! (It was a game changer for ME and so many Coaches I've helped!)

In this fun be strategy-packed episode, Mitch Matthews shares a powerful story from a recent coaching session with a member of his Foundations program. The conversation dives deep into the emotions that come with launching a coaching business—from excitement to fear—and the importance of honoring those feelings. Mitch introduces the concept of a “tether” to your future: a simple but meaningful step you can take today to stay connected to the future you're building. What You’ll Learn: Why fear during a business launch is actually a sign you're on the right track How your own journey can equip you to better serve your clients The power of documenting your emotional journey for future content What a "tether" is—and how creating one can help anchor your vision Mitch’s own story of a Nokia brick phone that symbolized a new path Resources & Links: Visit MitchMatthews.com for coaching programs and free resources Grab our 44 Strategies to Get More Coaching Clients... NOW: www.MitchMatthews.com/44ways Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect: What small but significant step can you take right now to tether yourself to your future? Support the Show: Leave a review & punch those stars! Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. Stay encouraged. We’re in this together.

May 16, 202523 min

Turning Setbacks into Strategy... going to bed with your client (it's different than you think) and getting your next TEDx Talk too! - A Jam Session with Coach Loren Greiff

In this Encourager Jam Session, Mitch Matthews sits down with Loren Greiff, an executive career strategist and founder of Portfolio Rocket. Loren shares how a major career pivot turned into her mission to empower professionals over 40 to not just land jobs, but truly own their careers. From calling out ageism to embracing personal branding and integrity, Loren drops a masterclass on knowing your ideal client and leading with authenticity. 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Loren “goes to bed with her client” (well... it's a bit different than you think... but it WORKS!!) – and what that means for connecting deeply with your niche. The real deal about ageism in the job market – and how Loren helps clients navigate it with clarity and confidence. How to speak to your ideal client shoulder-to-shoulder — not from a pedestal. Loren’s candid journey applying to TEDx talks and the perseverance it takes to chase big dreams. What Loren’s building next: an alumni program designed to keep executives thriving after they land the job. 🔥 Notable Quotes: “Don’t you dare give up before the miracle.” “Know your person. Speak to them like you're in the trenches with them.” “I’m not going to ask my clients to do anything I wouldn’t do myself.” 💡 Resources & Links: Loren’s site: PortfolioRocket.com Adam Carroll’s TED Talk: Watch here 44 Ways to Grow Your Coaching Business PDF: Download here 🗣️ Keep the Conversation Going: Leave a review, share this episode with a fellow coach or executive, and tag us with your biggest takeaway!

May 9, 202516 min

Is Group Coaching Right for You? Key Insights for Coaches & Creators

In this episode, Mitch dives into the powerful potential of group coaching —what it is, who it’s for, and how it can elevate your coaching business. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to scale, Mitch walks through real-world examples, pricing strategies, and how group coaching can help you deliver more value while protecting the integrity of your 1:1 services. Plus, find out ONE KEY INDICATOR that group coaching might be the perfect next step for you. 🔑 What You’ll Learn : Why group coaching is a strong fit for introverted coaches How to determine if your ideal client needs community Real case studies: New leaders, entrepreneurs & young professionals How to use group coaching to maintain pricing integrity The income & impact equation: How one coach doubled her earnings Tips for launching with confidence and clarity 📌 Resources Mentioned : FREE Guide : 44 Ways to Find & Onboard Great-Fit Clients - www.mitchmatthews.com/44ways Want a deep dive on this subject? Email Mitch’s team at contactus @ mitchmatthews.com to request a group coaching masterclass 🔥 Mitch’s 2025 Motto : More Impact. More Income. More You. 👇 Don’t Forget To : Subscribe & leave a review! Share this episode with fellow Coaches or Encouragers thinking about scaling with group coaching.