What happens when cancer crashes your life and your livelihood? In episode 281 of the Gratitude Geek podcast, I sit down with entrepreneur and cancer thriver Deb Krier to talk candidly about living with Stage 4 breast cancer while still showing up for your clients, your business, and most importantly—yourself. Deb and I don’t sugarcoat anything. We’ve both walked through cancer diagnoses, nerve damage, port drama, chemo fog, and endless unsolicited “cures.” And yet—we kept going. Sometimes we pa...
Jul 22, 2025•49 min•Ep. 281
What if joy isn’t a fleeting feeling but the ultimate business strategy? In episode 280, Air Force veteran, mental health advocate, and transformational leader Kimberly Mitchell — known as the "Joy Warrior" — shares her Journey to Joy System. Kimberly reveals how healing your inner world and rewriting limiting beliefs can unlock unstoppable success in life and business. We explore why so many women struggle with money mindsets, how to turn fear into fuel, and why curiosity (not hustle) is the ul...
Jul 15, 2025•51 min•Ep. 280
Ever feel like your bank account is speaking a language you don’t understand? It’s time to stop panicking and start profiting. In this powerful episode of Gratitude Geek, I sit down with Ahuva Gruen — a fractional CFO (that’s Chief Financial Officer, your business’s financial brain!) and financial clarity coach for small businesses. We break down why clarity, not just cash, is the real secret weapon for solopreneurs. Ahuva shares her journey from childhood wig sales and candy hustles to becoming...
Jul 08, 2025•43 min•Ep. 279
Telling your business story on TV isn't just about publicity — it’s about creating a legacy. In this powerful episode, Emmy Award-winning journalist and media strategist Michelle Rupp joins me to break down how to leverage your story to gain earned media, build trust, and create real community change. We unpack Michelle's own experience of televising her heart surgery, why women’s health stories need more airtime, and how small businesses can turn one segment into long-term growth. You’ll learn ...
Jul 01, 2025•50 min•Ep. 278
What happens when you pivot careers after 40 and land your dream gig? Paul Heitsch knows. A former composer and sound engineer, Paul stepped into audiobook narration later in life—and now he’s narrated over 380 titles, including the Omega Force sci-fi series by Joshua Dalzelle (episode 265). In this candid conversation, Paul shares how he built a thriving voiceover business in his second act, what AI can’t replicate, and how storytelling is still a deeply human craft. 🎧 In This Episode: How Pau...
Jun 24, 2025•56 min•Ep. 277
Jeff Pearson looks perfectly healthy—but his brain tells a very different story. In episode 276 of Gratitude Geek , host Kandas Rodarte chats with Jeff, a speaker, nonprofit founder, and host of Invisible Condition on e360tv. Born with hydrocephalus, Jeff has endured seven brain surgeries, six of them in just over a decade. But instead of giving up, he and his wife launched a nonprofit, a TV show, a caregiver support network, and a mission to bring hope to others living with invisible conditions...
Jun 17, 2025•50 min•Ep. 276
In this emotionally grounding episode of Gratitude Geek , Kandas Rodarte welcomes back author and mindset coach Fletcher Ellingson to explore how we can build emotional resilience in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. We dive into Fletcher’s signature framework from his book The Practice of Feeling Good — and unpack how fear is often just a story. Fletcher shares how to identify the root of that fear, reframe it, and begin practicing a new, empowering narrative. You’ll also learn why “feel...
Jun 10, 2025•59 min•Ep. 275
Are you a female solopreneur over 40 looking to stand out in 2025? Discover how video can transform your business, build real connections, and help you shine in a crowded market—no matter what you’ve overcome. Jason Zygadlo joins me for episode 274 of Gratitude Geek to explore the power of personalized video, authentic branding, and how his nonprofit ZIGGYSTRONG supports people navigating grief and adversity. Whether you’re rebuilding after cancer, divorce, or loss, this episode offers practical...
Jun 03, 2025•50 min•Ep. 274
If your YouTube titles aren’t getting clicks, your content isn’t getting seen. Period. In episode 273 of Gratitude Geek , I sit down with Jake Thomas, the self-proclaimed YouTube title nerd behind CreatorHooks.com, who’s written 1,000s of titles responsible for nearly 100 million views. We unpack the psychology of why people click, how to avoid common title mistakes, and how women over 40 can stand out on YouTube without falling into the clickbait trap. Whether you’re launching a channel or stuc...
May 27, 2025•48 min•Ep. 273
You can have a killer product and a beautiful website… and still lose thousands. In episode 272, I chat with Roger Pearson—an IRS Enrolled Agent with over 50 years of experience in business—about the most common (and costly) mistakes entrepreneurs make when it comes to finances, taxes, and business structure. Roger shares the three foundational pillars every small business needs to thrive and explains why even seasoned solopreneurs often miss the mark when it comes to deductions, depreciation, a...
May 20, 2025•38 min•Ep. 272
What if talking about death actually helped us live better? In episode 271 of the Gratitude Geek Podcast , host Kandas Rodarte sits down with Nikki Smith, an INELDA-certified death doula and grief coach, to explore the often-avoided topic of dying—and why it's time to stop pretending we’ll live forever. Nikki shares: How a death doula supports the dying and their loved ones What practical tools—like checklists—can ease grief and prevent family conflict Why casseroles aren’t the only way to help ...
May 13, 2025•41 min•Ep. 271
Is your business stuck because of what you think you know? In episode 270 of the Gratitude Geek Podcast, host Kandas Rodarte sits down with entrepreneurship educator Andrew Frazier to explore the unpopular truths that small business owners need to hear. Andrew shares what thousands of coaching sessions have taught him about: Why not every business should scale The real reason your marketing isn’t working How personal branding beats a business plan What most entrepreneurs get wrong about selling ...
May 06, 2025•42 min•Ep. 270
AI and automation are game-changers, but they can feel a little... well, robotic. In episode 269, I sit down with strategic marketing expert Chris Troka to talk about how solopreneurs can automate workflows without losing the personal connection that makes small businesses thrive. Chris shares his journey from wedding DJ to automation expert and gives real-world advice on blending tech with heart. What You'll Learn: Why consistent follow-up is critical (and how automation makes it easier) How to...
Apr 29, 2025•51 min•Ep. 269
What happens when you build a business that feels good? In episode 268, I sit down with intuitive healer and spiritual joy guide Kim Beam to explore how aligning your business with joy, gratitude, and purpose can lead to unexpected success and healing. Kim shares her journey from personal struggles to powerful breakthroughs, including how she turned pain into purpose and fear into flow. We talk candidly about cancer, entrepreneurship, intuitive practices, and the importance of body awareness. Ki...
Apr 22, 2025•50 min•Ep. 268
In episode 267 of the Gratitude Geek Podcast , I interview Cam F. Awesome, a 12-time national boxing champion turned motivational speaker. Cam shares his journey from facing setbacks in the Olympic trials to embracing the mindset of a champion. We chat about the role of positive self-talk in overcoming challenges and building resilience—an essential skill for solopreneurs looking to grow their businesses with gratitude, grit, and determination. Through candid stories, Cam explains how he transfo...
Apr 15, 2025•52 min•Ep. 267
In episode 266, I chat with Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch, about what it really takes to grow a podcast—and a business—through guesting, hosting, and collaboration. We explore tools, monetization, content repurposing, and how community drives success in podcasting. 🎧 Full show notes: http://kandasrodarte.com/266 Gratitude Geek is part of the Podmatch Network. Learn how Podmatch can help you grow your visibility: http://kandasrodarte.com/podmatch...
Apr 08, 2025•43 min•Ep. 266
In episode 265 of Gratitude Geek , I chat with bestselling indie sci-fi author Joshua Dalzelle, who garnered enormous success without the backing of a traditional publisher. 🚀 Joshua shares his journey from self-publishing his first novel to selling millions of copies and earning a loyal fanbase. We chat about: ✅ How Joshua leveraged self-publishing to achieve success ✅ The secrets behind building a devoted reader community ✅ Why protecting intellectual property is essential for authors From hi...
Apr 01, 2025•56 min•Ep. 265
Nate Morse joins Kandas Rodarte on episode 264 of the Gratitude Geek Podcast to share how solopreneurs can turn LinkedIn connections into paying clients. Nate, a LinkedIn strategist and entrepreneur, explains how to move beyond job searching and use LinkedIn as a relationship-building tool. He breaks down the importance of optimizing your profile, building trust, and offering value before making a pitch. ✅ In This Episode: Why LinkedIn is more than just a recruiting platform How to position your...
Mar 25, 2025•46 min•Ep. 264
In episode 263, Kandas Rodarte sits down with Heather Edwards, founder of AhHa!Broadway, an arts education organization based in New York City. As part of Podcasthon 2025, an international week of podcasts promoting non-profits, Heather shares how AhHa!Broadway has adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding its reach through successful online arts programs. They discuss the transformative power of the arts, the importance of mentorship, and the vital role community plays in fo...
Mar 18, 2025•48 min•Ep. 263
How to Stop Holding Yourself Back In this episode of the Gratitude Geek Podcast , Noah St. John, the "Father of Afformations®," reveals how to break free from "success anorexia" and rewire your brain for lasting success. Discover how to overcome self-limiting beliefs, the number one mistake entrepreneurs make, and actionable tips to create a mindset of abundance. Tune in to learn: Why you might be holding yourself back without realizing it How Afformations® can shift your mindset for better resu...
Mar 11, 2025•47 min•Ep. 262
In this episode of Gratitude Geek , I sit down with Michael V. Morgan, author of The Power of Networking , to discuss the essential strategies for building and maintaining meaningful professional connections. Whether you're a solopreneur, entrepreneur, or career professional, networking can open doors to new opportunities and long-term success. Michael shares actionable tips on leveraging relationships, tracking connections, and authentically promoting yourself without feeling salesy. What You’l...
Mar 04, 2025•46 min•Ep. 261
What if the secret to business freedom wasn’t working harder, but working smarter? In episode 260 of Gratitude Geek , I chat with David Jenyns, founder of SYSTEMology , about the power of systems in business. David shares his seven-step process for systemization, explaining how small business owners can streamline operations, save time, and increase profits without unnecessary complexity. We discuss the importance of starting with the client experience, balancing structure with creativity, and h...
Feb 25, 2025•47 min•Ep. 260
In this powerful episode, award-winning journalist and fantasy author Kristof Morrow shares his incredible journey of overcoming childhood trauma, living with Tourette’s syndrome, and finding success in writing, self-publishing, and viral marketing on TikTok. Kristof dives into his experiences in journalism, his transition into fantasy literature, and how he used social media to sell thousands of books. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a fan of great storytelling, or curious about self-publish...
Feb 18, 2025•40 min•Ep. 259
In episode 258 of Gratitude Geek , I sit down with Electra Govoni to uncover the biggest mistakes new business owners make—and how to sidestep them. From financial missteps to ineffective systems, Electra shares insights from her journey as a software engineer turned business coach. She dives into the importance of understanding net income, establishing strong foundational principles, and surrounding yourself with the right support network. What You’ll Learn: Why focusing only on gross revenue c...
Feb 11, 2025•46 min•Ep. 258
In episode 257 of Gratitude Geek, I’m honored to speak with Dr. Robert J. Wolf, author of Not a Real Enemy , whose powerful personal story offers profound lessons on resilience, gratitude, and the impact of history. Dr. Wolf, the son of a Holocaust survivor, shares insights on how remembering history and fighting against hate are crucial in today’s world. Key Takeaways: The Importance of History: Dr. Wolf discusses the necessity of remembering the Holocaust to prevent similar atrocities from hap...
Feb 04, 2025•46 min•Ep. 257
In this episode of the Gratitude Geek Podcast , host Kandas Rodarte welcomes Adam Zuckerman of Buried in Work to discuss the often-overlooked but critical topic of estate and succession planning for solopreneurs and micropreneurs. Adam shares invaluable insights into why planning for the unexpected is essential for safeguarding your business, easing burdens on loved ones, and ensuring your legacy endures. Drawing from his personal experiences and the innovative resources he’s developed, Adam rev...
Jan 28, 2025•49 min•Ep. 256
In this episode of the Gratitude Geek Podcast , Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, dives into the transformative power of earned media for small businesses. Mickie shares how well-placed press releases and engaging storytelling can lead to substantial business growth, enhance credibility, and attract loyal customers. He also provides actionable insights on crafting compelling press releases, building relationships with journalists, and leveraging the shift from print to digital media to maxim...
Jan 21, 2025•55 min•Ep. 255
Welcome back, Gratitude Geeks! This week, I sit down with my friend, Mira Dessy, a board-certified nutrition educator and holistic health expert, to explore the powerful connection between what we eat, how we think, and our overall well-being. Get ready to be inspired and empowered as we dive into topics ranging from mindful eating to building a resilient, real-food pantry. About Mira Dessy: Mira is a passionate nutrition educator, known as the "Ingredient Guru," and is a board-certified member ...
Jan 14, 2025•52 min•Ep. 254
In episode 253, host Kandas Rodarte is joined by mindset coach Josh Flower, who shares his journey from a 25-year career in B2B sales to becoming a mindset coach. Josh reveals how embracing a growth mindset and building authentic relationships can transform both your professional and personal life. Josh discusses the struggles of starting new habits, such as fitness or diet routines, and why perseverance is key, even when immediate results aren’t visible. He also dives into the importance of sel...
Jan 07, 2025•56 min•Ep. 253
In episode 252 of the Gratitude Geek Podcast, Danny Brassell dives deep into the importance of diverse perspectives in education, business, and personal growth. He shares inspiring stories, including that of astronaut Ronald McNair, and discusses how embracing different viewpoints can lead to more impactful learning and stronger connections in both professional and personal settings. Danny emphasizes the value of vulnerability, inclusivity, and ongoing self-reflection, offering valuable insights...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 252
