R.O.G. Return on Generosity

240. Roots of Generosity: What Our Kids Teach Us (Part 2)

“Action over words.”
“Where you can show up, show up.”
“It doesn’t cost anything to be nice.”
“The physical embodiment of love is being present.”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Jabari Whitehead engages with guests Tay Person and Mike Wernert in a heartfelt discussion about the importance of generosity, support, and emotional presence in parenting. They explore the challenges of being sports parents, the lessons of character and generosity they hope to impart to their children, and the value of being present in their kids' lives. The conversation also touches on the complexities of travel sports and the cherished moments that make it all worthwhile.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Your circle reflects who you aspire to be.
Creating a loving environment is crucial for growth.
Mistakes are part of the learning process.
Being present is essential for emotional support.
Generosity can make the world a better place.
Travel sports can provide valuable life lessons.
It's important to support your child's passions.
Emotional openness is key in parenting.
Intentionality in parenting leads to better outcomes.
Cherished moments with family are invaluable.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Better Us, Better Them
01:59 Lessons from Sports Parenting
08:43 Navigating Academic Pressure and Emotional Support
10:47 The Importance of Preparation and Goal Setting
12:32 The Invisible Work of Being Present
20:05 Emotional Vulnerability in Competitive Environments
26:57 Lessons of Generosity and Character
30:30 The Value of Travel Sports and Family Moments
35:36 Daily Moments of Joy and Connection
 
Guest Bio |
Mike Wernert:
Michael J. Wernert is a respected pharmaceutical leader and U.S. Army veteran known for his authentic, fatherly approach to leadership, with a career spanning 20 years at AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly. Michael’s experience as a teacher, coach, and military officer has shaped his belief that leadership is about investing in people and celebrating their successes. Armed with an MBA from the University of Delaware, a Master’s in Education from West Chester University, and a distinguished military background, he combines strategic expertise with genuine care and support for those around him.
 
Tay Person:
With over 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Tay has spent his professional career dedicated to improving outcomes in public education. As a teacher, board member, consultant, and leader, Tay has taken a consultative approach to drive results and build lasting partnerships that ultimately benefit children. When he’s not working he’s spending time with his four daughters and wife of twenty-two years.
 
Guest Resources: 
The Power of Vulnerability - Brene Brown: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Mike Wernert and Tay Person, Host Jabari Whitehead, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week for From the Vault #1: Harry Potter.

239. Roots of Generosity: How Fatherhood Shapes the Way We Give (Part 1)

“Look past people’s faults and find their needs.”
“I knew I couldn’t teach a kid until that kid knew I cared about them or until I made a connection with them.”
“The grind is worth it.”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Jabari Whitehead engages in a heartfelt conversation with guests Tay Person and Mike Wernert about the themes of fatherhood, personal growth, and the importance of generosity. The discussion explores how their experiences as fathers shape their values, the lessons learned from their own fathers, and the sacrifices they make for their families. They reflect on the challenges of parenting, the need for self-improvement, and the ways they find balance in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being role models for their children and the impact of generosity in their relationships.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Personal growth is a continuous journey for fathers.
Fatherhood involves giving love and discipline.
Unlearning old parenting patterns is essential.
The first moments of parenthood are transformative.
Sacrifices are a part of being a father.
Finding time for self-care is crucial for parents.
Leadership skills are enhanced through fatherhood.
Generosity is reflected in how children treat others.
Children observe and learn from their parents' actions.
Being a good father requires selflessness and high standards.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Personal Growth
03:03 Fatherhood Models and Core Values
03:52 Lessons from Fatherhood: Unlearning and Learning
06:03 Navigating Parenthood: Challenges and Sacrifices
08:13 Refilling the Cup: Self-Care for Fathers
21:16 Reflections on Parenting and Leadership
23:36 Growth in Patience and Understanding
26:51 Authenticity in Leadership
29:22 The Importance of Connection
32:24 Generosity Reflected in Children
39:34 Better Us, Better Them
 
Guest Bio |
Mike Wernert:
Michael J. Wernert is a respected pharmaceutical leader and U.S. Army veteran known for his authentic, fatherly approach to leadership, with a career spanning 20 years at AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly. Michael’s experience as a teacher, coach, and military officer has shaped his belief that leadership is about investing in people and celebrating their successes. Armed with an MBA from the University of Delaware, a Master’s in Education from West Chester University, and a distinguished military background, he combines strategic expertise with genuine care and support for those around him.
 
Tay Person:
With over 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Tay has spent his professional career dedicated to improving outcomes in public education. As a teacher, board member, consultant, and leader, Tay has taken a consultative approach to drive results and build lasting partnerships that ultimately benefit children. When he’s not working he’s spending time with his four daughters and wife of twenty-two years.
 
Guest Resources: 
The Power of Vulnerability - Brene Brown: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Mike Wernert and Tay Person, Host Jabari Whitehead, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week for Episode 240, Part 2.

238. Reclaiming Joy: Living Fully After Hardship with Linda Shively

“Happiness is often around an external event or external situation where joy is internal.”
“You can’t pour from an empty soul.”
“You can choose how to show up.”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy speaks with Linda Shively, a neuroscience and mindset coach, about the importance of joy, resilience, and generosity. Linda shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including escaping an abusive marriage and dealing with her daughter's health challenges. She introduces the concept of 'joy-stealing dragons' that hinder personal happiness and offers strategies to tame them. The conversation also explores the significance of laughter yoga, the difference between joy and happiness, and the importance of self-generosity. Linda emphasizes the power of gratitude and small joys in cultivating a fulfilling life.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Joy-stealing dragons can hinder personal happiness.
Laughter yoga promotes intentional joy and connection.
Joy is an internal state, while happiness is often external.
Generosity can manifest in many forms beyond money.
Self-care is essential for personal well-being.
Traveling provides perspective and joy.
Unexpected connections can lead to profound mentorship.
Being present is crucial for mental well-being.
Gratitude can spark joy even in difficult times.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Introduction to Joy and Resilience
02:17 Linda's Journey: Overcoming Adversity
05:30 The Joy Stealing Dragons
08:30 Taming Your Inner Dragons
12:13 The Power of Storytelling
14:18 Understanding Joy vs. Happiness
15:32 The Essence of Generosity
16:36 Self-Generosity and Personal Care
17:06 Filling the Soul: Nourishment and Joy
17:40 Travel as a Soul-Filling Experience
18:36 Unexpected Connections: Mentorship and Friendship
20:22 The Power of Presence in Communication
24:04 Rapid Fire Insights on Joy and Mindfulness
 
Guest Bio |
Linda Shively has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and is a best-selling author, international award-winning speaker, and neuroscience and mindset expert. She has presented at Nasdaq, the Mexican Stock Exchange, the New York Academy of Medicine, the Mexican National Academy of Medicine, the Harvard Club of Boston, the New York City Bar Association, Walmart, and Carnegie Hall.
Linda has been a multiple-time guest on ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC television, featured in a feature film with Winona Ryder and Jeff Daniels, and even performed at the Rose Bowl for over 90,000 people.After healing from an abusive marriage, and navigating the diagnosis and eventual death of her 3-year-old daughter, Linda found her way to bounce back and reclaim her joy in life. Today she helps successful women defeat the dragons in their life and elevate their joy to new levels.Linda has studied brain and mind function for over 30 years, earning a psychobiology degree from UCLA, is a certified Master Life and Executive Coach, a Master Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), a Master Hypnotherapist, and a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader. 
 
Guest Resources: 
Quiz to identify one of your biggest Joy-Stealing Dragons and what to do about it: https://JoyStealingDragons.com
Meditation to get you grounded, present, and focused: https://MyPeacefulMeditation.com
My book Getting to Joy to get practical tips to find your way back to joy:  https://GettingToJoy.com/gift
https://LindaShively.com
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Linda Shively, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 239, Special Guests, Mike Wernert and Tay Person.

237. From NFL to Non-Profit: Tackling Rare Diseases with Brett Brackett

“[Rare Diseases Research] deserves to be celebrated the same way that we celebrate athletes and sports in this country.”
“Giving is the greatest form of getting.”
“You always have a chance to positively impact other people, it's just a matter of what you do with the moments you have.”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy interviews Brett Brackett, the executive director of Uplifting Athletes, who shares his journey from being a college and NFL athlete to leading a nonprofit focused on supporting the rare disease community. Brett discusses the importance of generosity, the impact of rare diseases, and how Uplifting Athletes engages college athletes in philanthropy. He emphasizes the power of community, the significance of research in rare diseases, and the misconceptions surrounding athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's platform for good and the profound impact of giving back.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Generosity can take many forms, including time, talent, and treasure.
The average path to diagnosis for rare diseases is 3-5 years.
One in ten Americans is affected by a rare disease.
Uplifting Athletes hosts events to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases.
The Young Investigator Draft celebrates researchers in rare disease research.
Athletes often use their platforms to give back to the community.
Misconceptions about athletes often overlook their generosity and impact.
Success is defined individually, not by external standards.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Leadership
02:27 Brett Brackett's Journey from Athlete to Advocate
05:32 The Importance of Family and Support Systems
07:27 Uplifting Athletes: Mission and Impact
12:26 Understanding Rare Diseases
16:14 Events and Community Engagement
20:28 Stories of Generosity and Giving Back
25:14 The Power of Generosity
30:20 Misconceptions About Athletes
31:49 The Penn State Experience
33:49 Impacting Lives Through Generosity
35:18 Lessons from Football and Life
39:19 Leadership and Personal Growth
 
Guest Bio |
Brett Brackett is a New Jersey native whose passion for helping others has guided him to make a lasting impact on the rare disease community. Through his athletic career and now with Uplifting Athletes, Brett has used the platform of sport to inspire hope, raise awareness, and drive change for those impacted by rare diseases.
 
An exceptional athlete, Brett transitioned from being a top-rated quarterback in high school to a standout wide receiver and co-captain at Penn State, where he earned degrees in Marketing and Economics. His professional football career saw him thrive as an undrafted tight end with teams such as the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and Seattle Seahawks.
 
In 2017, Brett joined Uplifting Athletes full-time as Chapter Success Manager, where his leadership and experience in sports helped expand the organization’s reach. His deep commitment and strategic vision led him to step into an organizational leadership role in 2018. Since then the organization has funded over $1.2 million in rare disease research grants, hosted over 2,000 individuals impacted by rare disease for one-of-kind Uplifting Experiences and developed 450 student-athletes who have been trained to serve people impacted by rare diseases through Uplifting Athletes’ programming. 
Brett lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Jamie and their four children.
 
Guest Resources: 
www.upliftingathletes.org
Instagram: @UpliftingAthletes
LinkedIn: /Uplifting-Athletes
X: @UpliftingAth
Facebook: UpliftingAthletes
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Brett Brackett, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 238, Special Guest, Linda Shively.

236. Igniting Innovation: Inclusion and Generosity in the Patent World with Yvette Thornton

"Everybody has value to give."
“It’s not a game breaker, it’s a game changer.”
“How are you doing that differently? How are you going to stand out from the crowd?”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Yvette Thornton, a registered patent agent and advocate for innovation and women in leadership. Yvette shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Virginia to her career in intellectual property, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, empowerment, and generosity. She discusses her advocacy for the National Down Syndrome Society, her experiences in patent law, and the lessons learned from her upbringing that shape her leadership style. The conversation also touches on navigating career transitions, the power of community, and the significance of recognizing one's own value and strengths.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Leadership is about recognizing and valuing everyone's contributions.
Empowering women in leadership roles is crucial for industry transformation.
Advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome is about recognizing their abilities.
Intellectual property protects innovations and encourages creativity.
Listening and asking the right questions are key skills in patent law.
Transitioning careers involves self-discovery and recognizing one's strengths.
Generosity can come from unexpected places and has a ripple effect.
It's important to grieve the loss of a job and give oneself time to heal.
You are enough; own your strengths and contributions.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Introduction to Yvette Thornton and Her Journey
03:20 Growing Up on the Farm: Roots and Values
06:16 Influence of Family and Community on Leadership
08:59 Empowering Women in Leadership through WICT
11:57 Advocacy for Down Syndrome Awareness
14:48 Understanding Intellectual Property and Patents
15:43 The Journey to Becoming a Patent Agent
18:23 Innovations and Patents: The Impact of Ideas
21:21 Listening and Questioning: Keys to Innovation
23:10 Navigating Project Management and Innovation
24:34 Advice for Innovators: Protecting Your Ideas
26:34 Understanding Patents and Intellectual Property
27:48 The Power of Generosity in Professional Transitions
31:14 Embracing Career Transitions and Self-Discovery
35:27 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Your Value
39:00 The Importance of Asking for Help
42:15 Empowerment and Believing in Your Worth
43:21 Recharge and Leadership Style
 
Guest Bio |
Yvette Thornton, a registered patent agent, is the driving force behind Clarke Innovations LLC, where she advises organizations on innovation strategies, operational improvements and intellectual property (IP).  Her work focuses on the intersection of engineering and IP, expanding access to patenting, and fostering innovation-driven cultures. 
In her previous role as Director of Patent Development at Comcast NBCUniversal, Yvette collaborated with engineers and senior leaders to identify and capture innovation across the company. Yvette's impact extended beyond idea generation; she developed internal patent process, launched an Employee Recognition Program and created “Girl Storm” a program supporting women in patenting.
Yvette began her IP career as a Primary Patent Examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.She holds a M.S.  in Chemistry from the University of Virginia and a B.S. from Norfolk State University, where she was a Dozoretz National Institute for Mathematics and Applied Sciences (DNIMAS) Scholar.Based in the Philadelphia area, Yvette is active in The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia, an advocate for the National Down Syndrome Society and enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with her family.
 
Guest Resources: 
https://clarkeinnovations.com/
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Yvette Thornton, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 237, Special Guest, Brett Brackett.

235. The Art of “Relationshipping” with Lani Nelson-Zlupko

“Relationship is a noun, but 'relationshipping' is a verb and it takes a lot of agency and some skill.”
"You have to know what you want."
"Pause is power."
Episode summary |
In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, executive coach and psychotherapist Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko describes the difference between relationships and “relationshipping”, sharing insights on effective communication, emotional intelligence, and the importance of accountability in relationships to build meaningful connections. She introduces the MOVE method as a practical framework for navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing the value of self-awareness, understanding needs, and negotiating with empathy. The episode highlights key concepts like relationship hygiene, rehearsing communication strategies, and “losing well” as essential tools for personal and professional growth. Together, Lani and Shannon discuss common barriers to effective relationshipping and connection—including ego, fear, and pride—and offer actionable strategies for improving interpersonal dynamics and achieving deeper, more authentic relationships.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Relationships require agency and active engagement.
Relationship is a noun, but relationshipping is a verb.
Understanding what you want is crucial in relationships.
Pause is a powerful tool in communication.
Navigating needs involves accountability and clarity.
The MOVE method helps in effective communication.
Rehearsing conversations can lead to better outcomes.
Expect defensiveness in interpersonal interactions.
Losing well is part of maintaining relationships.
Positivity is essential in healthy relationships.
Collaboration is key to resolving conflicts.
Navigating difficult conversations requires calmness and clarity.
Understanding negotiation dynamics is crucial before engaging in discussions.
Time is essential for changing relationship dynamics and habits.
Apologies are vital for repairing relationships and require accountability.
Healthy relationships are built on reciprocity and mutual contribution.
Effective communication of needs is key to relationship satisfaction.
Overcoming stagnation in relationships involves addressing fears and barriers.
Identifying barriers like pride and ego can help in personal growth.
Maintaining relationship hygiene involves positivity and curiosity.
A small change can lead to significant progress in relationships.
 
Chapters |
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko
01:50 The Importance of Relationships
04:28 Understanding "Relation-shipping" as a Verb
07:08 Navigating Needs and Accountability in Relationships
09:46 The MOVE Method: A Framework for Effective Communication
16:45 Rehearsing Conversations for Better Outcomes
20:59 The Value of Losing Well in Relationships
26:53 Persisting Through Defensive Reactions
30:40 Navigating Difficult Conversations
32:29 Understanding Negotiation Dynamics
33:58 The Importance of Time in Relationships
35:22 The Art of Apology
38:09 Building Healthy Relationships
40:16 Reciprocity in Relationships
42:21 Communicating Needs Effectively
45:01 Overcoming Stagnation in Relationships
46:20 Identifying Barriers to Progress
49:42 Maintaining Relationship Hygiene
53:25 Rapid Fire Insights
 
Guest Bio |
Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko is an executive coach and psychotherapist with over 25 years of success bringing skills for change management and human resilience to clients and companies around the world.  Lani excels in understanding human behavior. She studies why people get stuck and how they move forward. 
Dr. Nelson's data-driven strategies enable people to elevate the best in themselves and elicit the best in others, with a keen eye to the very real psychological, interpersonal and institutional challenges they must navigate.  Her tools for human motivation, collaboration, coping, resilience, accountability, and cohesion have empowered individuals, families, teams, and companies to move forward. 
Lani earned her bachelor’s degree from Harvard and her master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania School for Social Policy and Practice.  She served as adjunct faculty at the University of Pennsylvania for over twenty-five years, is published in leading scientific journals, is a TEDx speaker and Fortune 500 keynote presenter.
 
Guest Resources: 
3 Strategies to Promote Healthy Working Relationships
Leading Without Authority by Keith Ferrazzi
The Right Kind of Wrong by Amy Edmonson 
TEDx: Staying Stuck or Moving Forward
Move Forward by Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko
Mindset by Carol Dweck
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Lani Nelson-Zlupko, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 236, Special Guest, Yvette Thornton.

234. Overcoming Adversity: The Rise of a Fitness Icon | Sydney Cummings Houdyshell (Part 2)

"I'm so grateful to be alive.""You have a life, let's freaking go!"
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with fitness entrepreneur Sydney Cummings Houdyshell about her journey from collegiate athlete to a leading figure in the fitness industry. Sydney shares her experiences overcoming personal tragedies, the importance of mental health, and her mission to provide free workouts to empower individuals globally. The conversation delves into the significance of generosity in leadership, the building of her fitness media company Royal Change, and the joys and challenges of motherhood. Sydney emphasizes the need for self-care and gratitude, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions and recognize their potential.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Mental health is foundational to physical health and fitness.
Generosity in leadership creates a supportive community.
Surrounding yourself with positivity is crucial for growth.
Pouring into yourself first enables you to help others.
Gratitude can transform your perspective on challenges.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Gratitude and Moving Forward
05:06 Embracing Life's Opportunities
07:49 The Importance of Mental Health
09:58 Healthy, Happy, Strong: A Holistic Approach
11:18 Surroundings and Self-Talk
13:23 Pouring Into Yourself
14:58 Generosity in Leadership
17:38 Behind the Scenes of Sydney Squad
19:19 Building a Community: Sydney Squad and Apparel
22:50 The Mission of Free Workouts
 
Guest Bio |
Sydney Cummings Houdyshell is a nationally certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and the founder of Royal Change, a global fitness brand dedicated to making health and wellness accessible to all. With over 1.7 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, Sydney delivers free, high-quality workouts every single day, inspiring millions to achieve their fitness goals right from their living rooms.
Her journey to becoming a fitness powerhouse was anything but ordinary. Growing up as a small-town athlete, Sydney’s passion for sports laid the foundation for her career in personal training. But it was her resilience in the face of personal tragedy—including the heartbreaking loss of her brother and surviving a traumatic shooting incident—that truly shaped her mission. Sydney channeled her pain into purpose, building Royal Change as a beacon of strength, positivity, and community for people around the world.
Sydney’s philosophy goes beyond physical fitness—it's about authenticity, resilience, and showing up every day with purpose and heart. Her inspiring story and commitment to empowering others have made her a sought-after voice in the fitness industry and beyond.
 
Guest Resources:
https://royalchange.fit/
https://www.youtube.com/@sydneycummingshoudyshell
https://www.instagram.com/sydneycummings_/?hl=en
https://x.com/sydneycummings_?lang=en
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 235, Special Guest, Lani Nelson-Zlupko.

233. Overcoming Adversity: The Rise of a Fitness Icon | Sydney Cummings Houdyshell (Part 1)

“It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible”
 
Episode summary |
In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, a certified personal trainer and founder of Royal Change. Sydney shares her journey from a small-town athlete to a global fitness influencer, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and community. She discusses her transition from sports to personal training, the creation of her YouTube channel, and the impact of personal tragedies, including the loss of her brother and a traumatic shooting incident, on her mission to help others. Sydney's story is one of overcoming adversity and inspiring others to pursue their passions with heart and dedication.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
Everyone deserves someone who genuinely cares about them.
Authenticity in fitness is more impactful than perfection.
It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible.
Staying grounded amidst success is essential for personal fulfillment.
 
Chapters | 
00:00 Introduction to Sydney Cummings
03:07 The Journey of Authenticity
06:09 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose
09:04 The Birth of Royal Change
12:09 Navigating Personal Loss and Resilience
14:56 The Impact of Community and Generosity
17:46 The Shooting Incident and Its Aftermath
21:12 Gratitude and Moving Forward
 
Guest Bio |
Sydney Cummings Houdyshell is a nationally certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and the founder of Royal Change, a global fitness brand dedicated to making health and wellness accessible to all. With over 1.7 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, Sydney delivers free, high-quality workouts every single day, inspiring millions to achieve their fitness goals right from their living rooms.
Her journey to becoming a fitness powerhouse was anything but ordinary. Growing up as a small-town athlete, Sydney’s passion for sports laid the foundation for her career in personal training. But it was her resilience in the face of personal tragedy—including the heartbreaking loss of her brother and surviving a traumatic shooting incident—that truly shaped her mission. Sydney channeled her pain into purpose, building Royal Change as a beacon of strength, positivity, and community for people around the world.
Sydney’s philosophy goes beyond physical fitness—it's about authenticity, resilience, and showing up every day with purpose and heart. Her inspiring story and commitment to empowering others have made her a sought-after voice in the fitness industry and beyond.
 
Guest Resources:
https://royalchange.fit/
https://www.youtube.com/@sydneycummingshoudyshell
https://www.instagram.com/sydneycummings_/?hl=en
https://x.com/sydneycummings_?lang=en
 
Bridge Between Resources:
5 Degree Change Course
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
 
Credits: Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
 
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 234, Special Guest, Sydney Cummings Houdyshell - Part 2.