Fractals of Change

The Unseen: Jerome Elam (Part 2)

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

What happens when the victims no one talks about begin to speak?

In Part 2 of this raw and revealing conversation, Mary Schaub continues her dialogue with Jerome Elam—President and CEO of the Trafficking in America Task Force, U.S. Marine veteran, and child trafficking survivor. This episode turns toward the often-ignored experiences of boys who are trafficked, and the profound silence they’re forced to endure. Jerome opens up about the toxic myths surrounding masculinity, the societal blind spots that fail boys and men, and how easy access to online exploitation and misinformation is creating a generation disconnected from real connection, love, and healing.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of child sexual abuse, trafficking, suicide, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Boys are trafficked too—and they’re often uncounted, unseen, and silenced
Male survivors face unique stigma, which delays healing and increases risk of suicide, addiction, and isolation
Pornography and social media are distorting relationships and rewiring expectations for intimacy—especially in young men
Every act of kindness can become a lifeline. Vulnerability is a bridge
Advocacy is healing. When survivors speak, they reclaim what was taken

🎤 Compelling Quotes:

“This isn’t a gender issue. It’s a human issue.” – Jerome Elam

“Many male survivors never even realize they were trafficked—until they hear someone else’s story.” – Jerome Elam

“When you reclaim your story, it stops being the thing that breaks you—and becomes the thing that fuels you.” – Mary Schaub

“The most beautiful sound? A survivor breaking their silence after years of silence.” – Jerome Elam

“What happened to me will always be part of me—but it no longer defines me.” – Jerome Elam

🔍 Keywords for SEO & Podcast Platforms:

Male trafficking survivor, boys and human trafficking, male sexual abuse, child exploitation, human trafficking awareness, trauma-informed podcast, trauma recovery, trauma therapy, pornography addiction, mental health for men, survivor stories, healing masculinity, Shobukai Shift, Mary Schaub, healthy relationship education, social media and trauma, suicide prevention

#ShobukaiShift #JeromeElam #MaleSurvivorsMatter #TraumaInformedLeadership #HumanTraffickingAwareness #SurvivorAdvocate #BreakingTheSilence #BoySurvivors #VulnerabilityIsStrength #TraumaHealing #PodcastOnTrauma

🔗Links

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678
Trafficking in America Task Force
Clown and the Candyman documentary
Safe Harbor Laws

Disclaimer:

***The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.***

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

The Unbreakable: Jerome Elam (Part 1)

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

"They say the truth will set you free. But first, it will break you open."

In this deeply moving episode, Mary speaks with Jerome Elam—USMC vet, child trafficking survivor, and CEO of America's Trafficking in America Task Force. From surviving unspeakable abuse to testifying before Congress and training law enforcement across the world, Jerome’s story is a powerful journey of resilience, transformation, and radical purpose. Part 1 dives into Jerome’s early life, the trauma he endured, the systemic failures, and the importance of trauma-informed leadership. 🎧 Part 2 coming next Wednesday.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses child abuse, and self harm. Listener discretion is advised.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Trauma doesn’t end when it’s over—it echoes until it's witnessed, processed, and healed.
Vulnerability is not weakness—it's the foundation of true leadership.
Every survivor needs a lifeline
Reclaiming your story is a radical act of power.
Breaking intergenerational trauma requires therapy, accountability, and immense courage.
Public perception of trafficking is still catching up to its modern realities
Every person has a role to play in protecting the vulnerable

🎤 Compelling Quotes:

“I’ve turned my trauma into something beautiful.” – Jerome Elam
“You don’t heal in spite of your trauma. You lead through it.” — Mary Schaub
“It only takes one person to make a difference.” – Jerome Elam
“We underestimate how a single act of kindness might be someone’s lifeline.” – Mary Schaub

💡Keywords: child trafficking survivor, male survivor of abuse, breaking generational trauma, trauma-informed leadership, trauma healing podcast, podcast on trauma, healing from abuse, leadership after trauma, trauma-informed coaching

#JeromeElam #TraumaInformedLeadership #HumanTraffickingAwareness #MaleSurvivor #TraumaHealing #PodcastOnTrauma #SurvivorVoices

🔗Links Mentioned in this Episode:

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678
Trafficking in America Task Force
Clown and the Candyman documentary
App Store Accountability Act

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Audience Share: Nature

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this heartfelt follow-up to "The Well-Gardened Self," Mary reads and reflects on powerful listener stories about how nature has supported their personal transformations. From fire escape herb gardens to grief walks through the woods, these stories reveal nature as a quiet but potent ally in healing, connection, and growth.

Topics Covered:

🎯Nature and grief processing

🎯Everyday rituals of reconnection

🎯Community through gardening

🎯Intergenerational healing through outdoor time

🎯Why we’re not machines—we’re ecosystems

🎯Nature as metaphor for identity, care, and change

Key Takeaways:

💡Transformation is less about doing and more about becoming—like seasons, slowly and cyclically.

💡Engaging with nature can help us process grief.

💡Rituals in nature ground us and create stability.

💡Change is a natural part of life, as reflected in nature.

💡Caring for plants can awaken our desire to care for ourselves.

💡Nature fosters community and connection among people.

💡Silent companionship with nature can be deeply healing.

💡We are part of nature, not separate from it.

💡Nature invites us to return to our true selves.

💡Transformation often begins with small, intentional actions.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤“The forest held my grief in a way people couldn’t.”

🎤“Nature doesn’t care about your resume. It cares about rhythm, effort, and patience.”

🎤“You are not a machine. You are an ecosystem.”

🎤“Nature doesn't care about your resume."

🎤"Nature is always inviting us to return."

Keywords:

✅nature ✅healing stories ✅transformation and nature ✅grief and the outdoors, ✅mindfulness through gardening ✅ecosystem self-care ✅listener story episode ✅Shobukai Shift podcast ✅Mary Schaub ✅personal transformation stories ✅community gardens healing

#NatureHealing #TransformationJourney #GriefAndGrowth #MindfulGardening #ShobukaiShift #ListenerVoices #UrbanNature #EcosystemSelf #CommunityHealing #BeingBecoming

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

The Well-Gardened Self

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

What if the key to navigating chaos isn’t more control—but more connection to nature?

In this episode, Mary explores how the natural world—gardening, birdwatching, even groundhogs—can heal us, grow us, and guide us through personal, organizational, and societal transformation. Drawing from Sue Stuart-Smith’s The Well-Gardened Mind, neuroscience, client stories, and her own pandemic experience, Mary unearths a simple but powerful truth: transformation is our nature.

Whether you're planting tomatoes, battling burnout, or feeding the birds, this episode will remind you: Growth is messy. Nature is wise. And healing starts where you are.

Topics:

🎯Nature as a metaphor for personal evolution

🎯The neuroscience of growth and pruning

🎯Grounding, mindfulness, and biophilia

🎯Client stories of finding connection through nature

🎯Carl Jung, Erich Fromm, and the psychology of being

Key Takeaways:

💡Nature provides a living metaphor for change: cycles of death, renewal, and intention.

💡Engaging with nature activates right-brain attention and reduces stress.

💡You don’t have to escape to the woods to experience the healing power of nature—it starts with awareness.

💡Tending to a garden, or even a houseplant, can cultivate mindfulness, purpose, and connection.

Quotes:

🎤“When we sow a seed, we plant a narrative of future possibility. It is an action of hope.” – Sue Stuart-Smith

🎤“You are not a machine. You are an ecosystem.” - Mary Schaub

🎤“Nature meets us where we are—and grows us from there.”

🎤“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” – Carl Jung

Keywords:

✅nature and healing, ✅the well-gardened mind, ✅Sue Stuart-Smith, ✅gardening and mental health, ✅transformation through nature, ✅grounding, ✅burnout recovery, ✅biophilia, ✅mindfulness and nature, ✅Jung transformation ✅ Fractals of Change

#NatureHeals #TransformationPodcast #MentalHealthMatters #ShobukaiShift #Biophilia #MindfulLiving #PersonalGrowth #SlowLiving #GroundedLeadership #WellGardenedMind #JungianPsychology

Links:

🔗The Well Gardened Mind: Rediscovering Nature in the Modern World, by Sue Stuart-Smith.

🔗Earthing documentary

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Rewrite Your Story: Penelope Cottrell & Ria Glenn DeMay

Wed, 28 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this engaging conversation, Mary Schaub speaks with Penny Cottrell and Ria Glenn DeMay about their journey from working in law and education to creating the Rewrite Workshops, a platform designed to help individuals explore their personal narratives and reclaim their power through writing. They discuss the transformative power of storytelling, the importance of community and connection in healing, and practical writing prompts for self-discovery. The conversation emphasizes the hero's journey in writing, the ripple effect of personal growth, and the significance of human connection in a digital age.

Takeaways:

💡Rewrite your story to reclaim your power.

💡Writing serves as a mirror and doorway to self-discovery.

💡Hurt people hurt people; heal people heal people.

💡You cannot use someone else's fire; you must find your own.

💡Life is too short to not pursue your passions.

💡Everyone is a natural storyteller, regardless of writing skills.

💡Healing is relational; we need each other.

💡Small changes can lead to significant transformations over time.

💡Community outreach is essential for supporting others.

💡Personal growth often comes from unexpected places.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤 "Each of us is both the writer and the protagonist of the story we're writing for ourselves.” — Mary Schaub

🎤“The power of rewriting your story isn’t just in the words—it’s in reclaiming your voice.” — Ria Penny

🎤“Writing gives us a mirror and a doorway. We see ourselves more clearly, and we step into a version of ourselves that is just a little bit more whole.” — Rewrite Workshops Blog

🎤“Healing is relational. Transformation is relational. We need each other for the real work to take root.” — Mary Schaub

🎤“I want to know who I am without the trauma, without the pressure to be perfect—just Ria, as she is.” — Ria Penny

🎤“We’re trying to bring back the fire—to be the mentors we needed when we were lost.” — Penny Cottrell

Show Links:

🔥The Rewrite Workshops 🔥

🌟The Rewrite Workshops (Substack) 🌟

Keywords:

✅ Rewrite Workshops, ✅ writing and healing, ✅ personal transformation, ✅ hero’s journey, ✅ shadow work, ✅ creative healing, ✅ journaling, ✅ storytelling for growth, ✅ trauma recovery, ✅ women’s empowerment, ✅ mindfulness, ✅ Joseph Campbell, ✅ narrative therapy, ✅ self-discovery, ✅ purpose-driven change, ✅ relational healing, ✅ raising strong boys ✅ Fractals of Change

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Audience Share: Ancient Practices for a Modern World

Wed, 21 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Mary Schaub reads listener's experiences by limiting social media, trying Qi Gong, and using psychedelics.

Key Takeaways

💡 Navigating change can lead to greater meaning and purpose.

💡Ancient practices like Taoism and Buddhism can help cope with modern challenges.

💡'The White Lotus' showcases deep themes of identity and authenticity.

💡Personal experiences with mindfulness can lead to significant growth.

💡Setting boundaries with technology is a crucial step towards mindfulness.

💡Physical practices like Qi Gong can enhance mental and emotional well-being.

💡Mindfulness practices can be efficient alternatives to traditional meditation.

💡Exploring spirituality can take many forms, including psychedelics.

💡Community and shared experiences can foster personal growth.

💡The journey towards authenticity is ongoing and requires patience.

Keywords

✅ change, ✅purpose, ✅ancient practices, ✅mindfulness, ✅spirituality, ✅The White Lotus, ✅Taoism, ✅Buddhism, ✅personal growth, ✅self-improvement

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Navigating Life with Ancient Wisdom

Wed, 14 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Mary Schaub explores what it means to be a peaceful warrior in chaotic times, drawing on ancient Eastern philosophies—specifically Taoism and Buddhism—to navigate the overwhelming pace and uncertainty of modern life.

Mary opens with a personal story from her early twenties, when a rare moment of stillness during a busy New York summer sparked a deep encounter with Buddhist teachings. This experience planted the seeds for a lifelong exploration of presence, simplicity, and acceptance—principles she finds more relevant than ever in today's hyperconnected world. With humor, humility, and hard-won insight, she invites listeners to explore how ancient practices can help us live with more grace and alignment in 2025.

Key Takeaways

💡The clarity comes from stillness, from alignment, from presence.

💡Buddhism encourages embracing the here and now.

💡Wu Wei refers to effortless action.

💡Life is suffering.

💡Pain and suffering are different.

💡You can avoid pain, but there's hope.

💡The purpose is for us all to help one another.

💡Growth arises through struggle.

💡It's not punishment. It's devotion.

Compelling Quotes

🎤"Life is suffering. Spoiler alert."

🎤"Pain and suffering are different."

🎤"Growth arises through struggle."

🎤"You are the change you and the world are waiting for."

Links

🌟Ariane Grande "Thank you, Next"

🌟Sheldrick Trust - baby elephants!

Keywords

✅Taoism, ✅Buddhism, ✅Transformation, ✅ Mindfulness, ✅ Inner peace

✅ Change ✅ Purpose, ✅ Wisdom, ✅ Peaceful warrior, ✅ Personal growth ✅ Fractals of Change

#Taoism #Buddhism #Transformation #Mindfulness #WuWei #PeacefulWarrior #ChangeManagement #SpiritualGrowth #StillnessInChaos #ConsciousLeadership #PersonalEvolution #RamDass #PresenceOverPanic #BecomingYourself

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Grief Into Purpose: Matthew Fischer

Wed, 07 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Matt shares his journey of coping with the loss of his son and his mission to help other families facing similar struggles. The discussion covers the signs of addiction, the role of parents, the impact of grief, and the importance of community support in recovery.

Key Takeaways

💡Matt Fischer established the Evan Fischer Foundation after losing his 21-year-old son Evan to a heroin overdose on Thanksgiving Day 14 years ago.

💡He has personally helped approximately 700 children and young people overcome addiction through a model based on unconditional love and relational healing.

💡Drug overdose deaths have increased dramatically, from 3.2 deaths per 100,000 people when Evan died to 32.6 per 100,000 in 2022 (a 147% increase).

💡Signs of addiction can be subtle and progressive, with many parents not recognizing the warning signs until the situation becomes critical.

💡The foundation of recovery is human connection - "human beings heal each other" through unconditional love and support.

💡Matt works with approximately 50 young people at any given time, meeting them personally and following up to ensure their continued recovery.

💡Fentanyl has created an unprecedented crisis, with 70% of the young people Matt meets having recently survived fentanyl overdoses.

💡Parents can unwittingly become "master enablers" by not setting boundaries or failing to recognize signs of addiction.

Compelling Quotes

🎤"Human beings heal each other. That is why we're here. And that's the gift I got from my son."

🎤"It's not what happens to you in life. It's what you choose to do about it."

🎤"Addiction is a lifelong disease. It lasts for your entire life. So you have to change your life and become empowered yourself."

🎤"Be here now... life is meant to be felt."

🎤"The message I got just looking at my son's body was, 'Hey dad, no one wants to go through this. You can do something.'"

🎤"I'm always working with at least around 50 people at a time... and I'm trying to keep them going."

🎤"You're not renting sobriety. Nobody can take it away from you. You're your own self-reliant human being."

Keywords

✅addiction recovery ✅teen drug addiction ✅fentanyl crisis ✅overdose prevention ✅parenting addicted teen ✅substance abuse help ✅addiction intervention ✅addiction support ✅grief transformation ✅purpose after loss ✅drug addiction signs ✅enabling behavior ✅recovery foundation ✅addiction treatment ✅ Fractals of Change

Hashtags

#AddictionRecovery #TeenAddiction #FentanylCrisis #OverdosePrevention #ParentingHelp #SubstanceAbuse #GriefToGood #PurposeAfterLoss #RecoveryJourney #AddictionSupport #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #ParentingTeens #DrugEducation #HealingTrauma

🌟Links

🙏 -Thanks to Matthew Fischer 💜

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Audience Share: Overwhelming Feelings

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Mary Schaub shares listeners' strategies for managing overwhelming emotions, from cocooning to grounding techniques, while reflecting on her rejuvenating trip to Lisbon and the importance of kindness in everyday interactions.

Takeaways:

💡Mary's trip to Lisbon helped her overcome post-COVID travel hesitation and reconnect with experiences she loves

💡Practicing kindness toward service workers creates positive ripple effects and personal joy

💡Cocooning can be a necessary self-care strategy for some.

💡Listeners shared diverse strategies for coping with overwhelming feelings, including temporary isolation, grounding techniques, and journaling

💡Grounding techniques like the "555 reset" can interrupt anxiety spirals by reconnecting mind and body

💡Handwriting feelings in a journal offers deeper emotional processing than digital alternatives

Compelling Quotes:

🎤 "Just as all the vitriol and anger and rage out there is contagious, so is kindness."

🎤 "Be nice to people for no other reason than because you can. Don't expect anything from it."

🎤 "I knew cocooning would not help me feel better, but that's where I was and that's what I did. And it is what it is."

Show Links:

🔥Delta Air Lines Delta One Lounge🔥

🌟KABUKI Lisboa 🌟

💜 Restaurante Feitoria and Chef André Cruz) 💜

Keywords:

✅mindset shifts ✅overwhelming feelings ✅self-care ✅ anxiety management ✅personal growth ✅emotional health ✅travel experiences ✅kindness ✅grounding techniques ✅journaling ✅Coping ✅Grounding techniques ✅Self-care strategies ✅Mindfulness practices ✅Travel after COVID ✅Lisbon ✅Emotional regulation techniques ✅Mind-body connection ✅ Fractals of Change

#ShobukaiShift #MentalHealthStrategies #CopingTechniques #MindfulnessMatters #TravelAfterCovid #LisbonTravel #GroundingTechniques #JournalingForHealth #EmotionalRegulation #KindnessMatters #AnxietyManagement #SelfCareJourney #DeltaOne #JFK

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Mindset Shifts for Overwhelm

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Mary Schaub discusses the feelings of overwhelm that many experience in today's rapidly changing world. She shares her personal struggles with overwhelm and explores three mindset shifts to cope with these feelings: sublimation, stoicism, and the anthropologist's perspective. Each shift offers practical strategies for redirecting emotions into constructive actions, fostering resilience, and maintaining a sense of agency amidst uncertainty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in navigating life's challenges.

Takeaways:

💡Many people are feeling overwhelmed in today's world.

💡Venting does not alleviate feelings of anger or frustration.

💡Sublimation is a healthy way to channel overwhelming emotions.

💡Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control.

💡Embracing challenges can lead to personal growth.

💡Living for the greater good provides deeper fulfillment.

💡Curiosity can transform overwhelming experiences into learning opportunities.

💡It's important to have coping strategies ready for difficult times.

💡Repressing emotions is counterproductive to emotional health.

💡We are both the writer and main character of our own lives.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤"Sublimation helps us grow through mastery"

Show Links:

Timeline of World History | Major Time Periods & Ages

Keywords:

✅ overwhelm ✅transformation ✅coping strategies ✅sublimation ✅stoicism ✅emotional regulation ✅mental health ✅self-improvement ✅personal growth ✅mindfulness ✅ Fractals of Change

#overwhelm, #transformation, #coping strategies, #sublimation, #stoicism, #emotional regulation, #mental health, #self-improvement, #personal growth, #mindfulness, #personalcoaching

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Reclaiming Your Creative Voice: Deborah Zelasny

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Mary engages in a heartfelt conversation with Deborah Zelasny, a writer and content creator. They explore their long-standing friendship, the challenges of teenage years, the impact of influential teachers, and the journey of self-discovery through writing and blogging. Deborah shares her experiences of navigating career changes, the importance of authenticity in content creation, and offers advice for aspiring writers. The discussion culminates in reflections on personal growth, the significance of kindness, and the power of following one's dreams. Warning: this episode may result in your dusting off that unfinished novel!

Takeaways:

💡Embrace continuous personal evolution and be willing to reinvent yourself

💡Support and encouragement are crucial in pursuing creative dreams

💡Authenticity matters more than external metrics of success

💡Creative pursuits often emerge from periods of personal challenge or grief

💡It's never too late to pursue your passions

💡Friendship can shape our identities and experiences.

💡Influential teachers can have a lasting impact on our lives.

💡Career choices often require sacrifices and adjustments.

💡Evolving as a content creator is essential for growth.

💡Writing is a journey that requires perseverance and self-belief.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤"To make a leap and do something outside the box is challenging"

🎤"What's the point of that gift that was given to you if you don't do anything with it?"

🎤"Stick to the authenticity... that's going to bring you the success and joy that you're really looking for"

Show Links:

🌸Beyond Jersey Momma 🌸

🐦‍⬛Jersey Momma Media🐦‍⬛

🔥Key of the Darkhouse book 🔥

💜Unlovable (The Smiths) 💜

Keywords:

✅creative writing ✅personal transformation ✅author journey ✅content creation ✅creative inspiration ✅career evolution ✅authentic storytelling ✅midlife creativity ✅writing process ✅personal growth ✅ Fractals of Change

#CreativeJourney #AuthorLife #PersonalGrowth #CreativeInspiration #MidlifeCreativity #Authenticity #WritingCommunity #CareerEvolution #StorytellingJourney #CreativeDreams

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Audience Share: Adaptability

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, listeners write in to tell their personal stories about why they struggle to deal with even small unexpected changes. In this introspective episode, host Mary Schaub delves into the deep-rooted origins of our emotional responses and the importance of self-reflection in personal transformation.

The episode explores how our past experiences, particularly from childhood, create "hardwired" emotional responses to unexpected changes. Through listener stories, Mary illustrates how individuals can recognize these patterns and work towards more mindful, adaptive behaviors.

Takeaways:

💡 Our reactions to unexpected changes often stem from past experiences and childhood conditioning

💡Self-awareness is crucial in understanding and evolving our emotional patterns

💡Personal growth is a continuous process of learning and adapting

💡Childhood experiences significantly shape our current behavioral responses

💡Being gentle with ourselves during the process of self-discovery is essential

Compelling Quotes:

🎤"We're all the authors and the main characters of the book we're writing about our lives."

🎤"No matter who you are or where you come from, we all have one thing in common. We're all going to be on this earth for a relatively short period of time."

🎤"Life is the process of figuring out the story you want to live, but we're all also figuring out who our main character is."

🎤"The live wire can be retired. It's not needed anymore."

Show Links:

🔥History of the World in 10 minutes (@melodysheep)🔥

🌟Timeline of World History (@UsefulCharts) 🌟

💜Scientists find heightened attention to surprise in veterans with PTSD - Virgina Tech - Dr. Chiu study 💜

Keywords:

✅ personal growth ✅life purpose ✅emotional resilience ✅childhood trauma

✅self-discovery ✅unexpected changes ✅mental health

✅personal transformation ✅psychological patterns

✅emotional intelligence ✅ Fractals of Change

#PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #MentalHealth #Transformation #Resilience #Mindfulness #EmotionalIntelligence #Healing #PersonalDevelopment #LifePurpose

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Awesome Goodness: Rob Kenney

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Mary Schaub interviews Rob Kenney, the creator of the popular YouTube channel 'Dad How Do I'. Rob shares his journey from being an introverted sales professional to becoming an internet dad figure for millions. He discusses his childhood experiences, the challenges of mental health in his family, and the impact of bullying on his self-worth. Rob emphasizes the importance of finding purpose, the role of faith and forgiveness in his life, and how he aims to empower others through teaching essential life skills. The conversation also touches on the influence of Mr. Rogers, the challenges of online criticism, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

Key Takeaways

💡Rob started his channel to help people with practical life skills but unexpectedly reached millions, becoming known as the "Internet Dad."

💡His childhood experiences of abandonment shaped his commitment to being present for others.

💡Rob emphasizes forgiveness as essential for personal healing, not just reconciliation with others.

💡He believes in the importance of authentic connection in a digital world focused on quick entertainment.

💡Rob shares both practical skills and wisdom, recognizing that fatherhood involves teaching both.

💡His approach to faith is embodied through service rather than preaching.

💡His L.I.F.E. acronym summarizes his philosophy: Learn, Individual gifts, Forgiveness, Embrace the journey.

Compelling Quotes

🎤"I think we long for a wholesome meal, but we settle for fast food because it's easy."

🎤"Forgiveness is setting a prisoner free and realizing the prisoner was you."

🎤"A dad is more than just Mr. Fix-it. Share your heart with your kids."

🎤"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."

🎤"I'd like to be remembered as a man after God's own heart."

🎤"Life is what happens while we're making other plans."

Keywords

✅Internet Dad ✅Rob Kenney ✅Dad How Do I ✅YouTube parenting

✅practical life skills ✅forgiveness ✅digital connection ✅fatherhood advice

✅healing ✅faith and service ✅authentic parenting ✅life wisdom

✅viral YouTube success ✅ Fractals of Change

Hashtags

#InternetDad #DadHowDoI #DigitalParenting #LifeSkills #Forgiveness #AuthenticConnection #FatherhoodJourney #PracticalWisdom #ServiceToOthers #FindingPurpose #HealingJourney #FaithInAction

Links

🌟Dad, how do I YouTube channel

🌟Dad, how do I book

🙏 -Thanks to Rob Kenney 💜

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Embracing Uncertainty

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Mary Schaub explores the theme of uncertainty in today's world, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and inner work. She discusses the challenges of navigating change and the necessity of embracing equanimity to foster personal growth. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, she encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with uncertainty and to prioritize their inner well-being as a means to contribute positively to society.

Key Takeaways:

💡Uncertainty is inevitable. The world has always been unpredictable, and resisting change only makes it harder.

💡Our aversion to change is deeply rooted. From societal norms to neurological wiring, humans are primed to prefer stability.

💡Control is an illusion. The need for control often stems from past experiences, anxiety, or fear of failure.

💡Equanimity is the answer. Developing inner stability helps us navigate change with resilience.

💡You are the protagonist of your story. Embracing self-awareness and intentionality shapes a meaningful life.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤“We may be in distress, but we’re not damsels. No one is coming to rescue us.”

🎤“Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of the cancer cell.” – Edward Abbey

🎤“When the winds of change blow, some people build walls, and others build windmills.” – Chinese Proverb

🎤“Only when you can be extremely pliable and soft, can you be extremely hard and strong.” – Zen Proverb

🎤“You are the protagonist of the story you are writing for yourself.”

Keywords:

✅Dealing with uncertainty ✅Fear of change ✅How to embrace change ✅Why change is hard ✅Letting go of control ✅Psychological resistance to change ✅Stoicism and change ✅Growth mindset and transformation ✅Navigating uncertainty ✅ Fractals of Change

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Trauma to Transformation: Amy Elizabeth Fox

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Mobius Executive Leadership CEO Amy Elizabeth Fox discusses how addressing trauma and fostering personal growth creates more effective business leaders and healthier corporate cultures. Learn how combining psychological insights with leadership development drives sustainable organizational change.

Key Takeaways:

💡Sustainable leadership change requires addressing underlying trauma and psychological patterns

💡Creating psychological safety is essential for organizational transformation

💡Leader self-transformation is key to facilitating broader organizational change

💡Personal trauma influences executive behavior and team dynamics.

💡Trauma-informed approaches to leadership development yield better long-term results

💡Personal healing work translates to better business outcomes and ethical decision-making

💡The pandemic of superficiality in corporate culture hinders genuine connection

Quotes:

🎤"To be a vessel of others or societal transformation, one has to place oneself in a constant process of self-transformation."

🎤"Until you can step back and turn back to pay attention to what were those defining events and start to integrate them, both the memory and the emotion - you're really inhibited by the footprint of those events in your psyche."

🎤"There are two big secrets in corporate life. The first is the level of trauma and regression that senior leaders are making their choices from... The other secret is the precious gold mine of spirituality that's under the conference table."

🎤"You don't have to teach people how to love. You don't have to teach people how to open their heart... You just have to get rid of the conditions that live in organizations that are hindrances to those things."

Keywords:

✅ Vertical Development ✅executive leadership development ✅organizational transformation ✅trauma-informed leadership ✅corporate culture change ✅business psychology ✅leadership coaching ✅emotional intelligence ✅workplace wellness ✅personal development ✅ Fractals of Change

Hashtags: #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganizationalChange #TraumaInformed #CorporateCulture #ExecutiveCoaching #WorkplaceMentalHealth #BusinessTransformation #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipTraining

🙏 Thanks to: @amyelizabethfox, @mobius-executive-leadership

Show Links:

🔥Mobius Executive Leadership

🔥Mobius Executive Leadership YouTube Channel

🔥The Next Practice Institute - 2025 Gathering

🔥Look: How to Pay Attention in a Distracted World (Christian Madsbjerg)

🔥Trauma Informed Coaching Program

🔥The Male Dilemma (David J. Fox)

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Tolerating the Unexpected

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0400

A deeply personal discussion of change management, self-discovery, and transforming unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth. The episode delves into personal change appetite, mindset flexibility, and the power of embracing life's unpredictable moments.

Takeaways:

💡 Change can be uncomfortable, but it often leads to unexpected insights and opportunities

💡 Our reaction to unexpected changes often stems from past experiences and learned behaviors

💡 Developing a flexible mindset is crucial for personal and professional growth

💡 Mistakes and unexpected events can be reframed as valuable learning experiences

💡 Self-awareness is key to understanding and managing our emotional responses to change

Compelling Quotes:

🎤 "The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." - Alan Watts

🎤 "We don't make mistakes, we just have happy accidents." - Bob Ross

🎤 "We can only contribute positively to the outside world if we're operating positively from within." - Mary Schaub

🎤 "Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of the cancer cell." - Edward Abbey

🎤 "Each one of us is the writer and protagonist of our story, of our lives. I hope you're writing something amazing for your lead character to experience." - Mary Schaub

Keywords:

✅ Personal transformation ✅Change management ✅Mindset resilience

✅Self-discovery ✅Emotional intelligence ✅Personal growth ✅Adaptability

✅Mistake learning ✅ Fractals of Change

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Life Pivots: Suzanne Roske

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Mary Schaub interviews Suzanne Roske, founder and CEO of Vamonos Executive Coaching, discussing her journey of personal transformation, the writing of her book, and the importance of self-discovery. They explore themes of vulnerability, trust, and the challenges of making significant life changes, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suzanne shares insights on the energy audit process, the cycles of renewal in life, and the work she does to help others figure out who they were always meant to be.

Key Takeaways:

💡Personal transformation often requires courage and vulnerability.

💡Writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.

💡Early work experiences can shape our relationship to work

💡Midlife reflections can lead to significant life changes.

💡Burnout can be a signal to reevaluate one's path.

💡COVID-19 prompted many to reassess their life choices.

💡Trusting others is essential for personal growth.

💡Acts of kindness can foster deeper connections.

💡Energy audits help identify what drains or energizes us.

💡Life transitions often follow cycles of renewal.

Quotes:

🎤"Your heart knows the way. Run in that direction" - Rumi (quoted by Suzanne)

🎤"Everyone is a single entity. You have one life. You generally are not one person when you walk into the office and another person when you get home."

🎤"If you start from your destination and you are one degree off on your path... in 60 miles, you will miss your intended destination by two miles."

🎤"A lot of times we try to make everybody a pink pony that wears a paper cone... I want everybody to be their shiny pink unicorn or whatever color unicorn self you want to be because that's when we all shine."

🎤"Withholding that request for help or that outreach really is a little bit selfish sometimes."

Keywords:

✅career change ✅sabbatical ✅executive coaching ✅personal transformation ✅ work-life balance ✅burnout recovery ✅life purpose ✅professional development ✅ Fractals of Change

🙏 Thanks to: @suzanneroske, @vamonos-executive-coaching

Show Links:

🔥I Should Be Doing This: An Adult Gap Year

🔥Hudson Institute of Coaching

🔥Michael Hudson

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Breaking Free

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Change isn’t always sparked by a single life-altering event—it’s often a series of thousands of mini catalysts shaping us over time. In this episode, we explore the journey of self-discovery, the process of unlearning societal conditioning, and the mental shifts required to break free from toxic narratives. How do we resist external pressures, embrace personal growth, and stay present in a world designed to distract us? Let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways:

💡Change is often a slow, ongoing process, not a single dramatic moment.

💡The world is designed to distract and condition us—breaking free requires conscious effort.

💡Resentment can fuel short-term change, but sustainable growth comes from self-awareness.

💡Mindfulness isn't just a buzzword—it’s an essential tool for navigating life with clarity.

💡Unlearning toxic narratives is an ongoing journey, requiring self-compassion and persistence.

Compelling Quotes:

🎤"You are a freshly painted white room. Be wise about who you let into it."

🎤 "Using resentment as a catalyst can help you break out of your orbit, but you can't subsist on it long-term."

🎤"The world doesn’t want you to figure out who you are—because self-aware people are harder to manipulate."

🎤 "Cutting the cord from the matrix is a mental decision made hundreds of times a day."

🎤 "You're not broken. What you need isn’t outside of you—it’s already within."

Keywords

✅Personal growth ✅Self-Discovery ✅Breaking Societal Conditioning ✅ Mindfulness and Awareness ✅Overcoming Limiting Beliefs ✅Transformation ✅ Unlearning Toxic Narratives ✅Finding Purpose ✅Mental Resilience, ✅Spiritual growth ✅ Fractals of Change

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

Preposterously Audacious: Dr. Ralph H. Groce III

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Dr. Ralph H. Gross III, President, COO and author of We Have Nothing to Lose: A Dark Optimist's Call to Action, shares his journey from a bright child in Pittsburgh to a successful leader and author. He discusses the importance of ambition, resilience, and transformational change in both personal and professional contexts. Ralph emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions and to work collectively towards positive change in society. His insights on leadership, perseverance, and the power of community serve as a call to action for listeners to embrace their potential and contribute to a better world.

Takeaways

💡The importance of being accountable to your ambition by speaking your objectives into existence

💡Transformational change is necessary for personal and organizational growth.

💡Childhood experiences shape resilience and drive in adulthood.Leadership requires inspiring followership and being the best version of oneself

💡Perseverance is a key trait for overcoming challenges and achieving goals

💡Creating positive change starts with individual responsibility and action

💡Community impact is essential for addressing social inequalities.

💡Collective action is necessary to effect meaningful change in society.

💡Dark optimism can empower individuals to see possibilities in difficult times.

💡The journey of self-discovery and purpose is crucial for personal fulfillment.

Links

🌟We Have Nothing to Lose (by: Dr. Ralph H. Groce III)

🌟 Knowhere Art Gallery

🌟 Scroobius

Keywords

✅ Leadership ✅ Resilience ✅ Transformation ✅ Change ✅ Personal Growth ✅ Community Impact ✅ Dark Optimism ✅ Social Equity ✅ Perseverance ✅ Ambition 🙏 Ralph H. Groce III ✅ Fractals of Change

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)

The Great Adaptation

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0500

The world is undergoing rapid transformation, affecting all aspects of life.
Shifting attitudes towards work reflect a desire for meaningful engagement.
Ikigai represents the intersection of passion, skills, and societal needs.
Coping with change requires understanding the complexities of human emotions.

Living intentionally means questioning societal norms and expectations.
Personal growth often involves navigating the messy middle of adaptation.
Success is not solely defined by traditional career paths or material wealth.
It's essential to recognize and challenge cultural narratives that dictate our lives. Finding your purpose is a journey that requires self-reflection and courage.

Keywords

✅ Change ✅ Work ✅ Purpose ✅ Ikigai ✅ Adaptation ✅ Growth

✅ Living Intentionally ✅ Societal Transformation ✅ Personal Development

✅ Change Management ✅ Fractals of Change

Links

✅Kubler Ross Change Curve

✅Cool classical music clip (André Rieu - O Fortuna; Carmina Burana - Carl Orff)

Disclaimer:

Credits: Written, produced and hosted by: Mary Schaub. Theme song written by: Mary Schaub

Contact: FractalsofChange@outlook.com

Website: M. Schaub Advisory (MSA)