Stroke It Guide Podcast

In Episode 177 of The Stroke It Podcast, host Jenny Townsend sits down with Matthew Finlin, CEO of Real Life Skills Academy, to unpack the truth about parenting, purpose, and personal development.Matthew brings a powerful framework built around his Five Pillars of Human Potential—financial, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—and explains how mastering these areas prevents the “3 D’s” of destruction: Debt, Divorce, and Disease.From the science behind deep sleep and testosterone to building boundaries in relationships and parenting, this episode challenges you to take radical ownership of your happiness and future. Whether you're a parent, a high-performing leader, or someone ready to upgrade your circle and mindset—this one hits hard. Learn how dopamine affects motivation, why cold plunges matter, the difference between motivation and discipline, and how to rewire your habits for real-life success.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro & Meet Matthew Finlin00:01:05 - Why Matt Moved to Peru and Built an Online Academy00:03:00 - The Five Pillars of Human Potential00:04:45 - Love Languages in Relationships and Business00:08:10 - Taking Care of Yourself: Circadian Rhythm, Hydration, and Exercise00:10:25 - The Science Behind Testosterone & Deep Sleep00:14:00 - Cold Plunges, Dopamine, and Motivation00:18:30 - Overcoming Excuses with Mini Habits00:21:30 - Self-Discipline vs. Motivation00:22:10 - How Romantic Relationships Help You Grow00:26:00 - Date Night + Business Meetings: The Couple’s Weekly Formula00:29:00 - Setting Boundaries as Parents00:32:00 - Building Trust in Your Community and Co-Parenting Networks00:35:00 - How Exposure Builds Empathy in Kids00:38:30 - The Importance of Dinner at the Table00:39:30 - Building a Life Through Community and the 5-Friend Rule00:43:00 - How to Identify "Contenders" in Your Circle00:47:00 - Matt’s Final Advice: Self-Love = Self-Discipline00:51:00 - Why You Should Never Go It Alone00:52:00 - Where to Find Matthew Finlin Online🔗 Connect with Matt:Instagram: @matthewfinlinFree community + resources: RealLifeSkillsAcademy.com👇 If this episode made you think, feel, or act—send it to 5 people who need to hear it today.Order Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

Welcome to this week's Throwback Series on The Stroke It Podcast with your host, Jenny Townsend. In this powerful replay of Episode #81, Jenny dives into one of the most overlooked but essential habits for growth: celebrating yourself.When was the last time you paused to acknowledge your progress? Whether it’s buying yourself flowers, writing in a win journal, or sharing exciting news with a friend—celebration is more than a moment; it's a mindset.Jenny shares personal stories, celebration rituals, and actionable tips for honoring your wins (big and small) while encouraging you to celebrate others without jealousy or hesitation. If you're someone who pushes forward without pausing to enjoy the progress, this episode will help you reset, refuel, and refocus—with joy.This episode will remind you: you don’t need permission to feel proud of how far you've come.Chapters00:00:00 – Welcome to the Throwback Series00:01:20 – Why Celebration Is Non-Negotiable00:02:45 – How to Handle Jealousy & Celebrate Others00:04:10 – Creating Moments of Self-Celebration00:05:20 – Stop Waiting: Buy Yourself Flowers00:06:40 – Share Your Wins (and Set the Tone)00:08:15 – What's a "Win Folder" and Why You Need One00:09:50 – Affirmation Messages and Journaling Tips00:11:30 – Gifts That Anchor Your Wins Emotionally00:13:00 – Self-Care After Achieving a Big Goal00:14:45 – Celebration Planning with Purpose00:16:00 – Love Languages and Meaningful Recognition00:18:15 – Why Small Wins Deserve Big Attention00:19:30 – Lessons Worth Celebrating: Even Failure00:21:00 – Final Thoughts: Choose Celebration TodayOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

In this heartfelt and empowering Mother’s Day special, host Jenny Townsend welcomes her biggest mentor and role model — her mom, Mireya Eavey. As the VP of Partnership Development at Credit Union 1 and a national leader in workforce and financial development, Mireya brings both professional wisdom and personal depth to this inspiring conversation.Jenny and Mireya explore how employee financial wellness directly impacts performance and retention, and why businesses must prioritize financial literacy to support mental health. Mireya shares her transformative career journey — from building community workforce programs to finding new purpose later in life — reminding us that it’s never too late to evolve.Beyond the workplace, Mireya reveals how hiking and nature have been her greatest tools for healing, self-care, and mental clarity. They also reflect on the power of mentorship, female friendships, and being intentional with family time, especially as adults.This episode is a raw, uplifting tribute to motherhood, grit, and growth — both in and out of the office.Chapters00:00:00 – Introduction to Mireya Eavey00:01:45 – Mireya’s Life Season & Career Pivot Post-Retirement00:04:00 – Moving to the Mountains: Dahlonega, GA & New Beginnings00:05:45 – Creating Meaningful Moments with Mom00:06:00 – Love Languages & Learning Later in Life00:10:10 – Why Financial Wellness Matters for Employees00:16:45 – Real Talk on Raises, Credit, and Employer Expectations00:20:00 – Hiking & Fitness: Self-Care as Mental Health Strategy00:25:58 – Mireya’s Deep Connection to Nature & the AT Trail00:31:29 – Finding Power in Female Hiking Groups00:34:31 – 40+ Year Friendships & the Value of Real Talk00:42:29 – Mentorship in Career & Life00:48:23 – Honest Parenting Reflections00:54:00 – Final Thoughts + Special Mother’s Day Message📚 Recommended Resources from Mireya & JennyThese are the tools, books, and organizations mentioned in this episode that support financial wellness, self-care, career growth, and personal development:Books & Tools:The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman – A relationship game-changer, discussed by both Mireya and JennyEnrich Financial Wellness Platform – Used by Credit Union 1 to assess money personality & deliver tailored financial educationSCORE Mentoring (https://www.score.org) – Jenny’s recommendation for free mentorship for business and personal growthOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

Welcome to the Stroke It Podcast! In this transformative episode, host Jenny Townsend sits down with powerhouse executive coach and event creator, Joh Morris Benichou, to unpack the magic of personal reinvention, the role of love languages in leadership, and how women can reclaim their power—professionally and personally.From leading at the helm of the largest entertainment firm to empowering women through wellness events, Joh shares her journey through menopause, burnout, and back into alignment. This episode is a masterclass in honoring yourself, scheduling joy, building strong communities, and reigniting intimacy in relationships.Tune in as we explore:How to prioritize YOU in your weekly scheduleCreating white space to rediscover identityThe unspoken challenges of menopause in marriageWhy building community matters now more than everBehind-the-scenes secrets from the UN and beyond 😉📍 Don’t miss Joh’s upcoming women's event "Bluebird" in Sarasota! Learn more at bluebirdsarasota.comChapters00:00:00 - Intro & Meet Joh Morris Benichou00:02:00 - Reinvention & Leadership Journey00:04:30 - Love Languages in Business & Marriage00:08:50 - Self-Care and White Space in Schedules00:13:00 - From Burnout to Breakthrough00:20:00 - Building Meaningful Community00:30:40 - Intimacy and Menopause00:38:00 - Embracing Change in Long-Term Relationships00:41:10 - Bluebird Event Announcement00:42:00 - Joh’s UN Dirty Little Secret00:43:30 - Final Thoughts & How to ConnectOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

In this empowering episode of The Stroke It Podcast, host Jenny Townsend sits down with transformational coach and purpose-driven leader Kathryn Ficarra, founder of The C Group, to unpack the deep work of personal identity alignment, executive presence, and self-belief. Kathryn shares her raw, personal journey from burnout and misalignment to peace and purpose. Learn how she turned her life around, walked away from a “perfect on paper” life, and began helping others do the same through her powerful Impact Framework.Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, educator, or simply seeking fulfillment beyond surface-level success — this episode is your starting point.Chapters00:00:00 – Introduction to Purpose-Driven Leadership00:02:49 – Kathryn’s Personal Journey of Transformation00:05:59 – The Impact Framework Explained00:09:02 – Happiness & Fulfillment: Why It’s an Inside Job00:12:13 – Identity Alignment & Executive Presence00:14:53 – Breaking Down Limiting Beliefs00:18:08 – Emotional Intelligence & Self-Belief00:25:01 – Mindset Shift: The Key to Sustainable Change00:29:16 – Real-Life Client Success Stories00:30:20 – How Employers Can Empower Transformation00:33:30 – Creating a Culture of Support & Innovation00:37:03 – The Power of Intentional Onboarding00:41:20 – Clarity, Self-Reflection & Daily AlignmentWebsite: www.thecgroupstudio.comInstagram: @thecgroupstudioAmazon (Book Coming Soon!): Your Presence Is Your Power – Stay tuned! 📌 What You’ll Learn:How to identify misalignment between success and true fulfillmentWhy executive presence starts with internal workThe role of belief systems in shaping reality and performanceHow triggers and emotions reveal hidden internal conflictsHow to create sustainable transformation in life and businessThe importance of identity alignment in leadershipHow employers can foster purpose-driven workplace cultureReal stories of transformation and mindset breakthroughsTools and frameworks to support personal growth and self-beliefThe underrated power of onboarding and one-on-one connection at workOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

In this empowering episode of The Stroke It Podcast, host Jenny Townsend shares five powerful ways to enhance every relationship in your life—starting with yourself. From self-love and self-care to showing appreciation in your romantic and professional relationships, Jenny dives into actionable tips that help you become more intentional and emotionally intelligent. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with a partner, support your team as a leader, or better show up for yourself, this episode covers it all. You'll learn how to set boundaries, validate others, give meaningful feedback, and even embrace the importance of fun. These insights are drawn from Jenny’s personal experience and leadership expertise, making this a must-listen for anyone wanting to boost their personal and professional relationships. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more life-shifting conversations. Chapters00:00:00 – Introduction & What This Episode Covers00:01:20 – Stroke Yourself: Self-Love, Self-Care, Releasing Control 00:05:10 – Stroke Your Partner: Love Languages, Presence, Validation00:08:56 – Stroke Your Employer: Engagement, Professionalism, Contribution00:13:14 – Stroke Your Employee: Respect, Appreciation, Honest Feedback00:19:02 – Final Thoughts & Actionable Takeaways#SelfCare #GrowthMindset #HealthyRelationships #WorkplaceLeadership #EmployeeAppreciation #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #SelfLoveJourney #ProfessionalRelationships #PersonalGrowthPodcast #WorkCulture #TeamBuilding #LeadershipCoaching #EmployeeRetention #WorkplaceCommunication #RelationshipMastery #PersonalDevelopmentPodcast #MindsetMastery #EmotionalWellnessIf you love this episode, drop a review + share on IG @‌jennyaldaytownsend 💛Order Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

Your words, energy, and intuition are shaping your reality—are you paying attention?In this powerful episode of The Stroke It Podcast, host Jenny Townsend sits down with Dr. Alina Ruta, a heart-centered expansion expert, to reveal how your energy speaks louder than words. Discover why stress and anxiety often stem from emotional blockages, how language affects your subconscious, and why intuition is your most underutilized superpower. Dr. Ruta explains the science behind balancing masculine and feminine energies, the hidden impact of societal conditioning, and a simple breathing technique to reduce stress instantly. If you’ve ever felt disconnected, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your path, this conversation will provide the tools you need to shift your mindset, embrace self-trust, and tap into your true power.Chapters00:00:00 - Introduction: The Power of Heart-Centered Consciousness00:01:47 - How Dr. Alina Discovered the Science Behind Energy & Intuition00:05:56 - The Hidden Impact of Societal Conditioning on Your Authenticity00:09:47 - Why We Ignore Our Intuition & How to Reconnect With It00:14:08 - The Words You Use Are Draining You—How to Change Your Vocabulary00:17:59 - Masculine vs. Feminine Energy: How to Find the Right Balance00:21:52 - The Breathing Technique That Instantly Reduces Stress & Anxiety00:25:59 - How Parents & Leaders Can Empower Others to Trust Themselves00:29:59 - A Powerful Healing Story: Overcoming Emotional Trauma00:34:01 - Practical Steps to Manage Energy & Unlock Your Full Potential📌 Follow Dr. Alina Ruta: 🌍 Website: conscioushumanexpansion.com📸 Instagram: @DrAlinaRuta💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Alina RutaOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

In this powerful episode of the Stroke It Podcast, host Jenny Townsend sits down with Wendy Rossiter to dive deep into healing past wounds, personal growth, and improving relationships. Wendy shares her journey of self-discovery, dealing with childhood trauma, and how books and YouTube have been game-changers for her. She also opens up about navigating marriage after decades, the importance of communication, and how self-work has led her to a fulfilling life. If you're looking for inspiration, healing, or a fresh perspective on relationships, this episode is for you!Chapters 00:00:00 Intro – Jenny welcomes Wendy Rossiter.00:02:15  Meet Wendy – Her background, marriage, and retirement.00:06:45 A Life-Changing Message – A former classmate calls Wendy out.00:10:30 Childhood & Bullying – How past wounds shaped her behavior.00:15:40 Healing the Inner Child – The Hoffman Process explained.00:21:00 Better Communication – The power of listening and empathy.00:26:30 Marriage Struggles & Growth – Lessons from 34 years together.00:31:15 Small Acts Matter – How daily gestures rebuild connection.00:35:45 Emotional Healing & Health – How stress affects the body.00:40:20 Advice for Relationships – Tips for newlyweds & long-term love.00:45:00 Must-Read Books – Wendy’s top recommendations.00:48:30 Outro – Final thoughts & where to follow.Book Recommendations:The Hoffman Process – A deep dive into understanding childhood influences and how they shape us.Nonviolent Communication by Marshall B. Rosenberg – A must-read for improving relationships and communication skills.Getting the Love You Want by Harville Hendrix – Essential for building stronger, healthier relationships.Order Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

Burnout isn’t just exhaustion—it’s a wake-up call. In this powerful episode of The Stroke It Podcast, Jenny Townsend sits down with Jo Stone, a former corporate executive turned entrepreneur, to uncover her journey from burnout to empowerment. After achieving everything she thought would bring happiness—career success, financial stability, and the perfect home—Jo realized she was completely unfulfilled. She made a bold decision to blow up her life, rebuild with purpose, and redefine success on her own terms.Now, as the founder of The Balance Institute, Jo helps ambitious women overcome burnout, break free from self-sabotaging behaviors like perfectionism, procrastination, and people-pleasing, and create a balanced life. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the hustle, or questioning your next step—this episode is a must-watch. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more transformational conversations!Chapters00:00:00 - Introduction to Burnout & Hope00:06:16 - Jo’s Journey from Corporate to Entrepreneurship00:12:06 - The Process of Self-Discovery & Rebuilding00:18:30 - Transforming Pain into Purpose00:30:53 - The Trifecta of Self-Sabotage00:37:57 - From Tugboat to Lighthouse: Leadership Transformation00:43:01 - Practical Advice for Personal Growth📌 Connect with Jo Stone:Website: www.balanceinstitute.comPodcast: Balance and BeyondInstagram: @JoStoneBalanceLinkedIn: Jo StoneOrder Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!

Jovita is a powerhouse of insight and motivation, ready to add serious value to your life. In this episode, she shares practical strategies to elevate your professional journey—because when your career thrives, so does your personal life.One of her favorite traditions? Choosing a word of the year to guide her mindset. This year’s word: "Stabilize." As ambitious individuals, we’re always chasing goals, but Jovita reminds us to pause, reflect, and celebrate along the way.She also breaks down her six-step guide to having productive conversations with your boss—giving you the confidence to advocate for yourself effectively. Plus, she dives into the power of self-awareness and professional growth, including why a 360-degree survey can be a game-changer for understanding how others see you.If you're ready to level up your career and life, this episode is a must-listen!Her dirty little secret is to BUILD RAPOR at your job.Chapters00:00:00 – Introduction to Jovita Robertson00:02:30 – Your career as a tool for life design00:05:00 – The power of choosing a word for the year (Stabilize)00:08:15 – Leadership and growth mindset00:12:00 – How Toastmasters improves communication skills00:15:45 – 6-step guide to having conversations with your boss00:21:30 – The importance of feedback in career growth00:26:15 – Communication styles and workplace relationships00:30:00 – Setting career goals and moving up00:35:45 – 360-degree feedback for self-improvement00:40:00 – Final thoughts and key takeawaysBooks: Emotional Intelligence 2.0 Podcast: Jay Shetty On PurposeMeet Jovita Robertson – Career Development Coach, Leader, and Advocate for Women in Corporate Success.With over eight years of experience managing teams and developing leaders, Jovita founded Grow with Jovita to bridge the gap in leadership development for women in corporate roles. Her mission is clear: to help women break through barriers, build confidence, and take charge of their careers.As the Vice President of Operations at Covington Ridge Financial, an officer in Toastmasters International, and a fundraising committee member for Live and Learn nonprofit, Jovita is deeply committed to leadership and empowerment.Passionate about connecting with like-minded professionals, she champions the idea that your career is a tool to design the life you want. Whether it's through mentorship, leadership training, or personal growth strategies, Jovita is here to help you get unstuck, step into your power, and achieve the success you deserve.Order Stroke It now at jennyaldaytownsend.com/book. Your order includes a signed copy, shipping and handling, and great Bonus items!Follow the Stroke It Guide on socials to stay connected and to get tips on how you too can get your STROKE on'!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jennyaldaytownsend/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thestrokeitguide Check out more about Jenny Alday Townsend by visitinghttp://www.jennyaldaytownsend.com Did you know there are free downloads available on my website? Go to All Products | Jenny Alday Townsend and snag the 4 Ground Rules to Elevate your life. Planning your future? Develop your 1-3-5 and change your life path!