Episodios

  • 108. The Journey, Not the Destination: John Golden on Authentic Leadership and Self-Awareness

    108. The Journey, Not the Destination: John Golden on Authentic Leadership and Self-Awareness
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of What’s the Point?, Bill Ellis welcomes John Golden—strategist, podcaster, martial arts practitioner, and Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Pipeliner CRM. John’s story stretches from growing up in Ireland to building a career in the U.S. that blends sales leadership, publishing, and purpose-driven business.

    Through their conversation, John emphasizes why embracing the journey matters more than obsessing over the destination. He shares how self-awareness, core values, and non-negotiables can guide decisions, why comparison is a trap, and how authenticity is the only way to lead effectively.

    From his 1,600+ podcast interviews to his decades in sales, John also shares powerful lessons about preparation, humility, and what it means to leave a lasting legacy. This is a rich, thought-provoking dialogue about human nature, leadership, and living with intentionality.

    🗝️ Key Takeaways
    • Embrace the Journey: Success isn’t about an overnight win—it’s about learning from every step, even the missteps.
    • Self-Awareness First: Before chasing goals, know your strengths, triggers, and true fit
    • Non-Negotiables Matter: Having clear values helps avoid distractions and wasted effort
    • Preparation Wins in Sales: Top performers always do their homework—it’s the ultimate respect for the client
    • Authentic Leadership: True leaders model values, act with humility, and elevate others without pretending leadership is just “being nice”
    • Legacy Over Noise: The real point is the impact you leave on those closest to you, not chasing global applause
      .

    LINKS:

    Connect with Bill:

    • bill@brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingforresults.com
    • IG - @wcellis
    • Facebook - @CoachBillEllis
    • LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellis
    • Book: Women Who Won

    CONTACT INFO:

    • Name: John Golden
    • Email: john.golden@pipelinersales.com
    • Website: https://www.pipelinersales.com/
    • SOCIAL MEDIA:
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SalesPOP
    • X: https://twitter.com/RealSalesPOP
    • X: @‌JohnGoldenFRR
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngolden/
    • Sales POP! Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sales-pop-podcasts/id1455305326

    Quick Episode Summary:

    • 00:00 – Meet John Golden: strategist, podcaster, and sales leader
    • 02:00 – From Ireland to San Diego: why embracing the journey matters
    • 06:30 – Self-awareness and core values as the foundation of clarity
    • 10:30 – Building your list of non-negotiables
    • 14:00 – Podcasting lessons: consistency, purpose, and value over vanity
    • 18:30 – Human nature insights: what the Maasai warriors can teach us about silence and observation
    • 24:00 – Martial arts lessons: humility, competing with yourself, and long-term discipline
    • 30:00 – Why comparison is destructive in life and sales
    • 33:00 – The power of preparation: a cautionary sales story
    • 38:00 – Debunking myths: salespeople are made, not born
    • 40:00 – Purpose-driven leadership beyond metrics
    • 46:00 – Flaws, scars, and the beauty of imperfection
    • 48:00 – John’s answer to “What’s the Point?”
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    51 m
  • 107. Building Trust That Lasts: How Unity and Service Can Transform Communities, Companies, and Culture with Chip Webster

    107. Building Trust That Lasts: How Unity and Service Can Transform Communities, Companies, and Culture with Chip Webster
    Aug 26 2025

    Trust. It’s something we all crave, yet so many of us feel it slipping away. In today’s conversation, I sit down with Chip Webster, founder of Unity and Service and author of Unity and Service: A Pathway to Responsible Citizenship. Chip has spent decades observing how trust is built—and broken—in boardrooms, neighborhoods, and across our country. His mission is simple: rebuild unity one act of service at a time.

    We dive deep into the cultural shift that’s left many of us disconnected and cynical. Chip challenges us to get off the couch, engage with our neighbors, and remember that the smallest actions—like holding a door, saying hello, or volunteering locally—can begin to restore trust.

    Chip also shares his bold vision for mandatory national service—not military, but one year of working on community projects, side by side with people different from ourselves. He believes that when we serve, barriers come down and our humanity shines through.

    We also discuss:

    • Why trust is highest in our local communities and lowest at the national level.
    • How listening—truly listening—creates consensus, even when we disagree.
    • The difference between microaggressions and micro-validations—and why small affirmations can heal more than we think.
    • What it really means to be a responsible citizen in today’s America.
    • Chip leaves us with a timeless challenge: If not now, when? If not us, who?

    This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation. The point is clear—unity doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when each of us decides to serve.

    Connect with Bill:

    • bill@brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingforresults.com
    • IG - @wcellis
    • Facebook - @CoachBillEllis
    • LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellis
    • Book: Women Who Won

    Links for This Episode:

    • Name: Chip Webster
    • Phone: 727-618-9376
    • Email: chip@unityinservice.org
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipwwebster
    • Website http://unityinservice.org
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chip.webster.2025

    Quick Episode Summary:

    • 00:00 – Introduction: Craving trust in a divided world
    • 02:00 – Why trust can’t be built online
    • 05:00 – Getting off the couch: first steps toward building trust
    • 07:00 – Small acts that matter (holding doors, saying hello)
    • 10:00 – The loneliness epidemic and knowing our neighbors
    • 12:00 – Culture as “the water we swim in”
    • 15:00 – Why national service could change everything
    • 18:00 – Dehumanization in politics and media
    • 21:00 – Listening, compromise, and consensus building
    • 25:00 – The role of Vistage in teaching trust and transparency
    • 30:00 – Generational shifts: helicopter parents and entitlement
    • 34:00 – Bridging the gap between generations
    • 36:00 – The United States or the Un-United States?
    • 39:00 – The CCC and WPA: lessons from the past
    • 43:00 – Chip’s vision for modern mandatory service
    • 45:00 – Who should read Unity and Service?
    • 48:00 – Micro-affirmations vs. microaggressions
    • 52:00 – What’s the point? Chip’s final message
    • 54:00 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Chip
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    56 m
  • 106. From Purpose to Legacy: Derrick Girard on Finding Faith Through Adversity

    106. From Purpose to Legacy: Derrick Girard on Finding Faith Through Adversity
    Aug 12 2025

    In this episode of What’s the Point?, host Bill Ellis sits down with Derrick Girard—entrepreneur, Air Force veteran, and author of Put to the Test. Derrick shares how a series of business challenges—including three major lawsuits—pushed him to reevaluate everything he thought he knew about success, leadership, and resilience.

    From growing up in a military family to launching a tech company without a tech background, Derrick’s story is one of grit, adaptability, and a relentless “figure it out” mindset. He opens up about the emotional and professional toll of building something from scratch, the cost of unchecked ambition, and how failure became the greatest teacher. This episode unpacks what it means to lead with integrity, step away from ego, and stay grounded in purpose—even when the pressure mounts.

    🗝️ Key Takeaways

    • Adversity as the ultimate test: Derrick’s life shaped by lawsuits and business breakdowns—not personal loss.
    • Mindset over platform: Success isn’t about status—it’s built through resilience, curiosity, and relentless problem-solving.
    • Drive has a cost: Extraordinary ambition allowed achievement—but at the expense of relationships until awareness rebalanced perspective.
    • Culture starts at the top: Corporate turnaround failed because the leader wouldn’t acknowledge systemic issues—culture isn’t declared, it’s lived.
    • Quitting is okay when you truly tried: Persistence matters—but so does knowing when you've done all you can and it’s time to walk away.

    💬 Final Thoughts

    Derrick emphasizes that success is not about avoiding failure, but about responding to it—with honesty, grit, and generosity. His Figure It Out mindset equips listeners to take accountability, embrace setbacks as fuel, and stay true to values amid chaos.

    Connect with Bill:

    • bill@brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingpillars.com
    • www.brandingforresults.com
    • IG - @wcellis
    • Facebook - @CoachBillEllis
    • LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellis
    • Book: Women Who Won

    Links for This Episode:

    • Name: Derrick Girard
    • Email: dmgirar@gmail.com
    • Phone: (612) 205-5280
    • Website(s): www.derrickgirard.com

    SOCIAL MEDIA INFO:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickgirard/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derrickgirardauthor
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author.derrickgirard/
    • Twitter: https://x.com/DerrickGirard1
    • BOOK: https://a.co/d/3Wg6LMN

    Quick Episode Summary:

    • 0:00 – Welcome and guest introduction: Meet Derrick Girard.
    • 1:42 – The unexpected call that changed everything.
    • 3:11 – Walking through crisis and asking, “What is God doing here?”
    • 5:20 – Letting go of ego and career identity.
    • 8:55 – Rediscovering purpose through faith and family.
    • 12:43 – Why we often confuse busyness with purpose.
    • 15:16 – What it means to obey even when it costs.
    • 18:38 – Derrick’s view on legacy, marriage, and spiritual leadership.
    • 22:07 – Final reflections and encouragement to follow God’s lead
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    49 m
  • 105. Begin With WE: Kyle McDowell on Crushing Workplace Dysfunction and Leading with Principle

    105. Begin With WE: Kyle McDowell on Crushing Workplace Dysfunction and Leading with Principle
    Jul 24 2025
    What if the real problem in corporate culture isn’t the strategy—but the absence of shared principles? In this powerful episode of What’s the Point?, Bill Ellis welcomes bestselling author, speaker, and former Fortune 10 executive Kyle McDowell. Kyle pulls back the curtain on what’s broken in today’s organizations—and how The 10 WEs framework can shift the culture from dysfunction to excellence. With nearly 30 years of experience leading massive teams, Kyle’s message is as bold as it is simple: begin with WE. Whether you’re leading thousands or just trying to be a better teammate, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, courage, and culture. Kyle McDowell is a leadership coach, keynote speaker, and the author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller Begin With WE: 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence. After nearly three decades in corporate leadership roles—including at some of America’s biggest firms—Kyle now helps organizations dismantle dysfunction by putting people over ego and mission over metrics. His trademarked philosophy, The 10 WEs, is redefining how leaders create buy-in, accountability, and authenticity across every level of business. Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways: Begin With WE: Kyle introduces his leadership framework and why starting with a unified vision creates cultures of excellence.From Fortune 10 to Full-Time Purpose: Kyle opens up about his decision to leave corporate life and step into his calling as a thought leader.The First WE Principle: "We do the right thing. Always." Kyle shares why this one idea is the cornerstone for trust, safety, and transformation.Courageous Candor: Kyle talks about moving past polite silence in the workplace and building teams that speak truth with respect.The Power of Modeling: Leaders can’t just talk the talk—they must model behavior and create an environment of accountability.It’s Not Soft, It’s Strong: Kyle breaks down why vulnerability and empathy in leadership are not weaknesses but the ultimate strengths.One-on-One Moments Matter: Leadership isn’t about stage presence—it’s about the impact you have in your next conversation. Kyle McDowell’s message is a wake-up call for leaders everywhere: Culture isn’t someone else’s job—it’s yours. His “10 WEs” offer more than a framework; they’re a mirror. One that reflects the kind of leader you are—and the one you’re capable of becoming. If you’re tired of watching dysfunction win, this episode will inspire you to lead with courage, clarity, and a whole lot more WE. Connect with Bill: bill@brandingpillars.comwww.brandingpillars.comwww.brandingforresults.comIG - @wcellisFacebook - @CoachBillEllisLinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellisBook: Women Who Won Links for This Episode: https://www.instagram.com/kylemcdowellinchttps://www.tiktok.com/@kylemcdowellinchttps://www.youtube.com/@kylemcdowellinchttps://www.facebook.com/KyleMcDowellInchttps://twitter.com/KyleMcDowellIncBOOK: Begin With WE: 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence Quick Episode Summary: 0:00 – Bill introduces Kyle and his mission to rewire corporate leadership1:08 – Kyle shares his background, from leading tens of thousands to walking away from it all3:44 – The origin of Begin With WE and how the “10 WEs” came to life6:10 – The core dysfunctions Kyle saw over and over—and why no one was solving them9:29 – “We do the right thing. Always.” Why principle-driven leadership builds unstoppable trust13:00 – How Kyle’s team of 15,000 began to adopt a shared belief system15:50 – What vulnerability in leadership really looks like—and how it unlocks deeper performance18:45 – Kyle breaks down his journey from fear to courage in leaving a secure corporate life22:00 – “We own our mistakes.” Why authenticity, not perfection, makes great leaders24:55 – Leaders who hide behind silence—and how to bring truth back into the room29:10 – Why great leadership is personal, not positional31:30 – The message behind his book and how The 10 WEs can transform any team33:45 – Kyle shares the moment he knew he was living out his calling36:00 – The ripple effect of cultural change—from the break room to the boardroom39:00 – Why Kyle believes impact, not income, is the true measure of success41:00 – Final thoughts from Kyle on what it really means to lead with purpose Subscribe & Share:Know someone frustrated with toxic work culture or looking to grow as a leader? Share this episode and help spread Kyle’s mission to bring principle-driven leadership to every workplace. Subscribe to What’s the Point? for more conversations that cut through the noise and help you live—and lead—with purpose.
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    52 m
  • 104. No Degree Required: Ken Rusk on Building Comfort, Peace, and Freedom Through Blue Collar Grit

    104. No Degree Required: Ken Rusk on Building Comfort, Peace, and Freedom Through Blue Collar Grit
    Jul 15 2025
    What if you didn’t need a college degree to create the life of your dreams? In this episode of What’s the Point?, Bill Ellis sits down with bestselling author, entrepreneur, and blue collar advocate Ken Rusk to unpack what it really means to take control of your future—without following the traditional path. Ken shares his journey from ditch digging at age 15 to becoming a successful business owner, author, and mentor helping others pursue comfort, peace, and freedom on their terms. From practical tools to mindset shifts, this episode offers a blueprint for building a life by design, not by default. Ken Rusk is the author of the bestselling book Blue Collar Cash and the founder of the Comfort, Peace & Freedom Foundation. A former ditch digger turned successful entrepreneur, Ken is on a mission to help people—especially young adults and veterans—build meaningful, financially free lives through skilled trades, visualization, and practical goal setting. He’s been featured on over 300 podcasts and continues to inspire others to reimagine success, one blueprint at a time. Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways: What “Blue Collar” Really Means: Ken redefines the term to include anyone who builds, creates, or makes things happen with their hands—and challenges outdated assumptions about skilled trades.The Myth of College = Success: He debunks misleading stats about higher education and shows how skilled workers often out-earn their white-collar peers—without student debt.Visualization = Power: Ken outlines his process for helping people map out their dream life in vivid detail, turning “someday” into “today.”From Someday to Now: A real-world story of a team member who paid off her car loan, bought a house, and built her dream life—all by starting with a $48/week savings goal.Start Where You Are: Whether you're 19 or 59, Ken shares how to pivot into a meaningful, profitable path using side gigs, local insight, and simple planning tools.Giving Back: Proceeds from Blue Collar Cash and Ken’s online programs support veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families through his nonprofit foundation. Ken Rusk’s story is proof that you don’t need permission, prestige, or a PhD to build the life you want. His message? Stop waiting for a lucky break and start building with what you’ve got. Whether you’re at the beginning of your career or hitting reset midlife, this episode is a reminder that comfort, peace, and freedom are within reach—if you’re willing to map it out and get your hands a little dirty. Connect with Bill: bill@brandingpillars.comwww.brandingpillars.comwww.brandingforresults.comIG - @wcellisFacebook - @CoachBillEllisLinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellisBook: Women Who Won CONTACT INFO: Name: Ken RuskEmail: ken@ruskind.comWebsite: kenrusk.com & veteransuccess.orgSOCIAL MEDIA INFO:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-rusk-2656a7175Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KenRuskOfficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenruskofficial/?hl=enTwitter: http://twitter.com/KenRuskOfficialTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenrusk.officialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCobMStuxuarzLDFSMgX7u0A Quick Episode Summary: 0:00 – Bill introduces Ken Rusk and sets the stage for a conversation on building purpose through skilled work1:08 – The real meaning behind “blue collar” and why it’s time to reclaim the term3:44 – Why higher education can mislead people—and how the trades offer an alternative path to wealth6:10 – Ken explains the power of visualization and why we plan vacations better than our own lives9:00 – “Comfort, peace, and freedom”: Ken’s definition of success11:00 – Real-life examples of people who changed careers, found purpose, and built wealth without degrees13:00 – The story of Tim, who went from ditch digger to VP—one visual goal at a time16:00 – Ken shares how growing up in a modest home inspired his entrepreneurial mindset19:00 – The "someday" story that transformed one employee’s life—and how small steps lead to big change22:00 – How Ken helps people make “unrealistic” dreams possible by turning them into when-goals, not if-goals26:00 – The puzzle analogy: why your life needs a clear picture before you can put the pieces together28:00 – The worst advice Ken ever got as a business owner—and what he learned about letting go of control31:00 – His biggest regret: waiting too long to start a 401k program for his team33:00 – Advice for older adults seeking purpose or pivoting into trades and entrepreneurship36:00 – The three-step process Ken recommends before launching your own business41:00 – Don’t chase passion—build infrastructure, then plug in your dream43:00 – Why Ken gives 100% of his book profits away to help veterans transition to civilian careers45:00 – The letter to his daughter that became Blue Collar Cash47:00 – Ken on staying hungry for growth—even after success48:00...
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    50 m
  • 103. Cancer, Clarity, and Calling: Diana Fritz on Finding Purpose Through Life’s Hardest Battles

    103. Cancer, Clarity, and Calling: Diana Fritz on Finding Purpose Through Life’s Hardest Battles
    Jul 3 2025
    In this powerful episode of What’s the Point?, Bill Ellis welcomes leadership and change consultant Diana Fritz to share the profound journey she’s walked since her rare cancer diagnosis. Diana opens up about the physical, emotional, and spiritual impact of living with—and surviving—a life-altering form of cancer. From losing her eye in a high-risk surgery to gaining a deeper sense of mission, her story is one of grit, grace, and choosing to grow through what she’s gone through. Diana’s message is clear: adversity doesn’t have to define us—it can uniquely qualify us to serve others. Diana Fritz is a wife, mom, leadership coach, and cancer thriver who brings two decades of business experience and a deep personal story of resilience. A DISC-certified consultant and member of the Maxwell Leadership Group, Diana leads with authenticity, using her life experiences to teach others about communication, connection, and courage. Her book, Uniquely Imperfect, Uniquely Qualified, captures the heart of her message: that even our hardest seasons can become our greatest qualifications to help others. Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways: A Rare Diagnosis: Diana shares how a routine biopsy turned into an 11-year battle with sebaceous carcinoma, a rare form of cancer that eventually led to the removal of her eye.From Control to Surrender: As a single mom and executive, Diana reflects on learning to release control and trust the journey—especially when the future was uncertain.Faith and Family First: Grounded by her faith and driven by her love for her two sons, Diana found strength in focusing on what truly matters.Seen, Heard, and Valued: Diana offers insights on how to treat others with dignity, especially those with visible differences, and why a smile or “hello” can change someone’s day.Purpose from Pain: Her story reveals how challenges can transform into powerful opportunities to lead, influence, and serve others. Diana Fritz’s story is a testimony to the power of faith, perspective, and service. Her willingness to embrace vulnerability and lead with compassion is an invitation for all of us to stop waiting for perfect circumstances—and instead, start living with purpose. Whether you're walking through a storm or simply searching for direction, Diana reminds us that we can find strength not in spite of adversity, but because of it. Subscribe & Share: Inspired by Diana’s story? Be sure to subscribe to What’s the Point? so you never miss a conversation about finding meaning in every chapter of life. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, clarity, or a reminder that they’re not alone in their journey. Connect with Bill: bill@brandingpillars.comwww.brandingpillars.comwww.brandingforresults.comIG - @wcellisFacebook - @CoachBillEllisLinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellisBook: Women Who Won Links for This Episode: CONTACT INFO: Email diana@grituiuq.com Website(s) https://grituiuq.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA INFO: LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/diana-fritz-b032064 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/diana.kline.395 BOOK: Uniquely Imperfect. Uniquely Qualified: Overcome Adversity, Escape the Imperfection Mentality, and Journey from Self to Serve https://www.amazon.com/dp/1636804306?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_1JNFAV8K7142AJXD77CX&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_1JNFAV8K7142AJXD77CX&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_1JNFAV8K7142AJXD77CX&bestFormat=true Quick Episode Summary: 0:00 – Bill introduces Diana and previews the themes of resilience, surrender, and compassion1:08 – Diana shares her rare cancer diagnosis and what made her case so unique3:44 – The decision to remove her eye and undergo a life-altering surgery6:10 – Parenting through pain: navigating cancer as a single mom with young children9:29 – The emotional and relational weight of visible differences and public perception13:00 – Why Diana strives to make others feel seen, heard, and valued15:10 – How connecting with patients, doctors, and strangers gave her a greater sense of purpose17:01 – Bringing her story into her leadership coaching and DISC communication work20:00 – Her career evolution from corporate leadership to coaching and people development22:45 – Choosing authenticity in leadership: owning your mistakes and leading with humility24:55 – Her motivation to model resilience for her children and others watching26:00 – Viktor Frankl, meaning-making, and how her mindset started long before her diagnosis28:00 – Why she titled her book Uniquely Imperfect, Uniquely Qualified and what it means30:00 – The power of turning adversity into a unique ability to help others31:00 – How her commitment to growth and influence shaped her career and personal mission34:00 – The worst advice she ignored—and the best advice she followed38:45 – Final reflections on finding your “why” and helping others as the path to healing
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    41 m
  • 102. Legacy, Leadership & Financial Freedom: Chad Hufford on Faith-Fueled Stewardship

    102. Legacy, Leadership & Financial Freedom: Chad Hufford on Faith-Fueled Stewardship
    Jun 19 2025
    In this episode of What’s the Point?, Bill sits down with Alaskan financial coach and entrepreneur Chad Hufford. Chad shares how growing up under the mentorship of his father in the finance world laid the groundwork for his passion to help families build wealth with purpose. As the founder of Veritas and a longtime Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro, Chad brings deep experience, a coaching mindset, and powerful insights on faith, finances, and family legacy. Chad Hufford is a lifelong Alaskan, financial advisor, and founder of Veritas, a holistic financial services firm based in Anchorage. A Ramsey SmartVestor Pro and former athlete, Chad blends strategy with the heart of a teacher. He and his wife Tiffany homeschool their six children and stay deeply connected to their community. Whether it’s moose in the backyard or mission-minded investing, Chad is all about building financial freedom with intentionality and faith. Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways: From Father to Founder: How Chad’s upbringing in a financial household shaped his calling to help others manage their money with wisdom.Faith at the Core: Why financial stewardship, generosity, and biblical principles are foundational to the way Chad serves clients.Beyond the Numbers: Chad shares why financial planning is about more than money—it’s about life purpose, legacy, and mindset.Coaching for Confidence: Learn how Chad uses a coaching model to empower people with clear direction instead of confusion or fear.Generational Wealth: Hear Chad’s thoughts on inheritance vs. impact, and what it means to truly prepare the next generation. Chad Hufford reminds us that financial freedom isn’t just about spreadsheets and savings—it’s about living a life of generosity, clarity, and conviction. Whether you’re starting your financial journey or looking to leave a legacy, Chad’s wisdom offers a refreshing, faith-rooted approach to money and purpose. Connect with Bill: bill@brandingpillars.comwww.brandingpillars.comwww.brandingforresults.comIG - @wcellisFacebook - @CoachBillEllisLinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellisBook: Women Who Won Links for This Episode: Email: chad@veritasalaska.comPhone: 907-561-2462Website: www.veritasalaska.com (main website) SOCIAL MEDIA INFO: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-hufford-066208100https://www.instagram.com/veritas.alaskahttps://www.facebook.com/VeritasWealthManagementhttps://www.youtube.com/@veritasalaska BOOK: Forging Financial Freedom www.forgingfinancialfreedom.com Quick Episode Summary: 0:00 Bill welcomes Chad Hufford to the show and introduces today’s theme.1:18 Chad shares his upbringing in Anchorage, Alaska, and his early exposure to the world of finance.5:10 Why faith and family became the driving forces behind Chad’s financial practice. 9:32 Chad explains the founding of Veritas and what sets his approach apart from traditional advisors.14:00 How being a former athlete informs his coaching style and the way he serves clients.20:48 A deeper look into the dangers of financial comparison, emotional decision-making, and fear-driven planning.26:17 The difference between financial education and financial transformation—and how Chad helps people shift their mindset.32:00 Final reflections: Chad shares his “point” on what truly matters when it comes to finances and life purpose. Enjoyed this conversation? Make sure to subscribe to What’s the Point? and share this episode with someone who’s ready to take control of their financial future. Every share helps us grow this community and continue delivering powerful stories like Chad’s.
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    45 m
  • 101. From Purpose to Possibility: Gigi Khonyongwa-Fernandez on Living Intentionally Through Life's Transitions

    101. From Purpose to Possibility: Gigi Khonyongwa-Fernandez on Living Intentionally Through Life's Transitions
    Jun 5 2025

    Trauma. We all see it and experience it at some point...to some degree. What is it? What can we do about it? How do we move through trauma? How do we find and embrace healing?

    In this episode of What’s the Point?, host Bill Ellis sits down with Gigi Khonyongwa-Fernandez, a Professional Coach and Consultant, Trauma-Informed Certified Coach, and Founder of GKF Coaching and Consulting/Families Blossoming LLC.

    Gigi has a deeply personal connection to trauma and shares her compelling personal story of navigating significant life’s rollercoasters, and how these lived experiences, coupled with her professional expertise across continents within the health sector, led her to a deeper understanding of and passion for purpose, resilience, healing and finding joy along the way. Gigi offers insight into her own journey, including experiencing loss, medical trauma, and raising a child with special needs.


    With warmth and wisdom, she walks listeners through the importance of defining your own narrative when faced with trauma and the importance of always making room for healing and hope. Whether you're navigating a traumatic event, know someone who is, or are simply seeking clarity, Gigi’s story and practical strategies offer encouragement, empowerment, and inspiration.

    Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways:

    • Transition as Transformation: Gigi believes transitions aren’t just events but opportunities to transform into who you’re becoming.

    • Reclaiming Identity: After years of shaping her life around others, Gigi chose to ask: “What do I want?” That question changed everything.

    • Language Matters: Words like “should” and “must” carry heavy energy. Reframing your language can shift your mindset.

    • Redefining Success: It’s okay to pause and reassess what success looks like to you—especially if your definition no longer fits.

    • Parenting with Purpose: Raising a neurodivergent child deepened Gigi’s empathy, patience, and commitment to coaching with compassion.

    • Permission to Heal: You don’t need anyone’s approval to start your healing journey. Sometimes, the person you need permission from is yourself.

    Connect with Bill:

    • bill@brandingpillars.com

    • www.brandingpillars.com

    • www.brandingforresults.com

    • IG - @wcellis

    • Facebook - @CoachBillEllis

    • LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/wcellis

    • Book: Women Who Won

    Links for This Episode:

    • LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/gigikhonyongwafernandez

    • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/gigi.khonyongwafernandez

    • Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/yourjoyfinder/

    Quick Episode Summary:

    1. 0:00 Welcome and introduction to Gigi Khonyongwa-Fernandez
    2. 2:15 Gigi’s global background: From the U.S. to London to Zambia and back
    3. 5:45 Starting over after a divorce and why it led her to coaching
    4. 9:30 Reclaiming identity after years of people-pleasing and shifting roles
    5. 14:10 Redefining success: What it means when your old goals no longer fit
    6. 17:50 On raising a neurodivergent son and how it reshaped her perspective
    7. 23:30 Coaching as a calling: Helping others find clarity during their transitions
    8. 27:45 The power of language in shaping mindset and confidence
    9. 34:10 Advice for those feeling stuck: Start by asking "What do I want?"
    10. 39:00 Final reflections: The point is to live intentionally and authenticall

    Final Thoughts: Gigi Khonyongwa-Fernandez’s story is a powerful reminder that life’s most uncertain moments can become the most transformational. Through her lived experience and coaching insights, she invites us to lean into discomfort, reframe our narrative, and confidently embrace our next chapter.
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