Visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being heard, understood, and remembered for the impact you’re here to make. And one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) ways to do that is through media—whether that’s social media, local news, podcasts, or beyond. But for so many people, the idea of putting themselves out there still feels intimidating, overwhelming, or just out of reach. The truth is, the media landscape has changed… and the opportunities available to you right now are more accessible than ever.
In this episode, I’m sitting down with someone incredibly special to me—my longtime mentor and dear friend, Freda Ross. Freda has spent over four decades in the media industry, including serving as a news director in a major market, and now helps businesses and nonprofits develop communication strategies that actually get them seen. We’re diving into how to use media to grow your visibility, share your message, and step into your role as the voice of your work.
Li...
Communication has the power to shape our relationships. When we know how to listen well, express ourselves clearly, and move through conflict in a healthy way, we create stronger connections at home, at work, and in our communities. Better communication doesn’t mean avoiding hard conversations. It means learning how to navigate them with more grace, understanding, and intention. And in today’s world, I think that skill matters more than ever.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by Mark Oelze, author of The Pledge of a Lifetime and creator of the PLEDGEtalk communication framework. Mark helps couples and individuals learn how to resolve conflict, communicate more effectively, and build healthier relationships. We talk about why so many conversations go sideways – and what we can do differently starting today.
Listen in on my conversation with Mark as we talk about:
Mastery isn’t built overnight—it’s built through repetition, consistency, and a willingness to be a beginner. In a world that often glorifies quick results and polished perfection, it’s easy to forget that real growth happens in the messy middle. Whether it’s storytelling, speaking, or simply learning to express yourself more confidently, every skill requires practice. And not just practice—but showing up again and again, even when it’s uncomfortable.
In this solo episode, I’m diving into what it really means to “put in the reps” and why that’s the key to becoming a more confident storyteller and speaker. I’m sharing personal reflections, lessons from my own journey, and a powerful story that shifted how I think about growth, effort, and mastery.
Here’s what I talk about in today’s episode:
What does it really mean to be seen—and why does it feel so uncomfortable, even when we want it? Visibility isn’t just a strategy; it’s an emotional and physiological experience that can bring up fear, resistance, and self-doubt. For many entrepreneurs and storytellers, the desire to share their message is often in direct tension with the body’s instinct to stay safe. Understanding that dynamic is the first step to showing up in a way that feels sustainable and aligned.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, April sits down with visibility coach and former therapist Anna Holtzman to explore the deeper layers of what holds us back from being seen. Together, they unpack the nervous system’s role in visibility and how to move through fear without burning out.
Listen in as Anna and I talk about:
Leadership isn’t always loud, polished, or found in boardrooms—it’s often shaped in the quiet, everyday moments that go unnoticed. The most impactful leaders aren’t just skilled strategists; they’re deeply connected, intentional, and human in how they show up. From handwritten notes to unwavering resilience, true leadership is built through actions that create lasting emotional impact. This episode explores how storytelling, connection, and lived experience shape the kind of leadership people never forget.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with leadership coach and author Leif Hemstad to explore the powerful story behind his new book, The Leadership Harvest. Through heartfelt reflections on his upbringing and the legacy of his parents, Leif shares what it really means to lead with purpose, presence, and humanity.
Come and join me and Leaf as we talk about:
What happens when you’re the first in your family to navigate a world no one has prepared you for? First-generation professionals often find themselves balancing unspoken rules, hidden expectations, and a deep sense of responsibility—all while trying to succeed in environments that weren’t built with them in mind. This experience goes far beyond being a first-generation college student; it’s about learning how to operate, communicate, and grow in professional spaces without a roadmap. And for millions of people, it’s a reality that’s rarely named, let alone understood.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with leadership expert Michelle Hoover to explore the powerful and often overlooked experience of first-generation professionals. Michelle shares her personal story, the inspiration behind her upcoming book From First to Fearless, and the insights she’s uncovered from interviewing dozens of individuals navigating this path.
Join me and Michelle and we talk abou...
Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect, inspire, and create change. Long before social media and digital platforms existed, stories were how ideas spread, communities formed, and movements gained momentum. They allow us to share not just information, but lived experiences that others can see themselves in. When we tell our stories, we give people permission to reflect on their own – and sometimes even find the courage to share them.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m reflecting on the importance of storytelling as we celebrate both Women’s History Month and World Storytelling Day. I’m sharing why women’s voices matter more than ever and offering a few simple ways you can start sharing your story—no matter where you are on your journey.
Join me today as I share with you:
Podcasting has quickly become one of the most powerful visibility platforms available to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and experts today. Whether you're hosting your own show or appearing as a guest, podcasts create a stage where your voice, message, and story can reach audiences all over the world. But simply showing up on podcasts isn’t enough — there’s a strategy behind turning those conversations into real connection, credibility, and business growth. When done right, podcasting can become a powerful extension of your brand and your storytelling.
In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with podcast strategist and agency owner Lyndsay Phillips, CEO of Smooth Business Podcasting. Lyndsay shares her journey into the podcasting world and pulls back the curtain on what actually works when it comes to podcast guesting, visibility, and leveraging podcasts as a marketing tool.
Listen in as Lyndsay and I talk about:
So many of the women I work with are brilliant, heart-led, and deeply called to do meaningful work — and yet they find themselves hesitating, overthinking, or holding back from being fully seen. Not because they aren’t ready, but because they’ve been conditioned to be “good.” The good girl keeps the peace, follows the rules, doesn’t take up too much space, and definitely doesn’t risk getting it wrong.
In this episode, we’re talking about what it really takes to break that conditioning and step into your confident era — not through force or perfection, but through self-trust.
I’m joined by the incredible Carly Clark Zimmer for a conversation that felt both deeply validating and powerfully activating. Carly shares her journey from being painfully shy and disconnected from her own voice to becoming a coach who helps women decondition from people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the patterns that keep them small.
Join me and Carly as we talk about:
There is nothing that lights me up more than watching someone step into their voice—especially when it’s the next generation. Because when a young person learns that their story matters, that they are seen, and that they are not alone, everything changes. This conversation is about what it looks like to intentionally create those spaces, to raise leaders who are grounded in faith and identity, and to model visibility in real time. It’s about the ripple effect that happens when one “yes” turns into many.
Today’s episode is special to me because I’m sitting down with two people I care about—Evelina Solis and her daughter Hope, the beautiful voices behind the Hope & Ev Show. I’ve had a front-row seat to their journey, and we’re talking about the heart behind their podcast, the impact of Shine Your Light Camp, and the calling they are boldly walking out together.
Tune in as Hope and Ev talk to us about:
50% Complete
You'll be the first to know when The Inside Story goes LIVE! There may even be some GOODIES in store for anyone who shares the podcast and leaves a review!!