Compass Stories

In this episode, Jackie Stilling shares her journey of self-discovery, healing, and the importance of curiosity and the pause in personal growth. She discusses how recognizing triggers from the past and embracing vulnerability can lead to greater self-awareness and freedom. Guest Bio: Jacqui Stilling is an experienced therapist using mostly psychodynamic therapy which can help patients find freedo...

Rodger Ruge is the Chief Resilience Officer for Pathfinder Resilience. In this conversation, he shares the experience that created a fracture in him, and he shares what he’s learned about growth and resilience in the 30 year journey back to wholeness. Guest Bio After two decades in high-intensity law enforcement units—including SWAT and motors—Rodger faced the kind of internal battle no tactical t...

In this engaging conversation, Kelly Roehm emphasizes the importance of redefining self-doubt, embracing fear, and finding balance in self-promotion. She discusses the role of data, the significance of delusion and audacity in pursuing goals, and the responsibility of leaders in fostering confidence within their teams. The dialogue also explores the concept of purpose in work and self-mastery, cha...

Chris Perry shares his journey from police officer to senior citizen resource officer, highlighting the importance of forgiveness, balance, and resilience in overcoming trauma and building a meaningful life. Guest Bio: Chris Perry has spent more than 30 years in law enforcement, including with the Cincinnati, Ohio Police Department. He currently serves as the Senior Citizen Resource Officer for Am...

In this episode of Compass Stories, Veronica talks to Jen Blalock and Shelby Mundy, exploring their personal journeys into this unique profession. The conversation explores grief, identity, and discovering purpose after loss. By sharing a personal story and professional insight, the women reflect on multifaceted role of death doulas, emphasize the importance of emotional and spiritual support in t...

In this episode, Veronica Sterling reflects on the key themes from Season One of Compass Stories, focusing on four pillars: agency, identity, action, and connection. She shares insights gained from her guests, personal blind spots she identified, and lingering questions. Veronica discusses her hopes for Season Two, including new hypotheses to explore. Takeaways Agency is often about recognizing wh...

In this episode, John Kelly shares insights on failure, resilience, and the importance of having tough conversations with others. Discover how embracing failure as a learning tool can transform your life and relationships. Guest Bio: National keynote presenter and law enforcement life coach, Retired Sgt. John Kelly faced several attempts on his life from suspects over his 30 year career in law enf...

In this final travel diary from the road, Veronica shares the adventure of traversing in the back country of Canyonlands National Park. She shares the 3D Value Check for choosing our core values and aligning our actions to it. Key topics Using adventure as a metaphor for life's journey The importance of defining and displaying core values Making decisions aligned with personal values The concept o...

In this insightful conversation, Mary Vicario shares her personal journey from education to trauma-informed care, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces and understanding behavior as communication. Discover practical strategies for fostering resilience and healing in both children and adults. Guest Bio Mary Vicario, LPCC-S is the Founder of Finding Hope Consulting and a Licensed Profes...

Veronica Sterling shares her transformative journey of travel, self-discovery, and how her perspective has evolved through her adventures in Bryce Canyon and beyond. This episode explores the importance of curiosity, reflection, and embracing change in life. Keywords self-discovery, travel, Bryce Canyon, perspective, personal growth, reflection, adventure, life changes, inspiration Key topics Trav...

In this episode, Laura Anthony shares her journey from childhood experiences with neurodiversity to her work as a disability lawyer and advocate for neurodiverse workplaces. She discusses the importance of understanding, curiosity, and systemic design in creating inclusive environments that benefit everyone. Laura Anthony is a nationally recognized speaker, disability attorney, and workplace consu...

In this travel diary, Veronica Sterling reflects on her journey to visit 50 out of 63 national parks, sharing insights on accountability, perseverance, and the importance of taking actionable steps towards achieving dreams. She emphasizes that extraordinary lives are built through consistent effort and decision-making, rather than relying solely on belief or talent. Takeaways Celebrating milestone...

In this insightful conversation, Jay Ehrnschwender, a pain expert and physical therapist, explores the complex nature of pain, its emotional and physical components, and how understanding these can help us navigate suffering and foster healing through connection, curiosity, and self-compassion. Jay is a physical therapist working near Cincinnati OH.  He started his career with a focus in orthopedi...

Veronica Sterling reflects on loneliness, connection, and reconnection strategies inspired by her journey along the Loneliest Road in America. She offers practical scripts to help rebuild relationships and emphasizes personal accountability in overcoming loneliness. Keywords loneliness, reconnection, relationships, communication scripts, personal accountability, mental health, emotional well-being...

In this insightful conversation, Brianna Jackson, a Gallup certified Clifton Strengths Coach, shares her expertise on discovering your authentic self through values and strengths. She discusses practical strategies for building confidence, courage, and aligning your life with your core principles to achieve purpose and fulfillment. Keywords self-discovery, strengths, values, confidence, courage, p...

Veronica Sterling shares insights from her journey through volcanic landscapes, using them as metaphors for life's disruptions and transformations. She offers practical questions to navigate change and find new meaning. Keywords disruption, transformation, resilience, personal growth, volcanic landscapes, Crater Lake, Lava Beds, life changes, mindset, inspiration Key topics Disruption as a catalys...

Matthew Gellin shares his transformative journey in theater, emphasizing its social impact, innovative approaches, and the power of empathy and storytelling to foster community and personal growth. Keywords theater, social change, empathy, childhood development, community, storytelling, education, leadership, innovation, American Legacy Theater Key topics Theater as a tool for social change and em...

Veronica Sterling shares her transformative journey through the Redwood National Park, exploring themes of nature, mindfulness, and the power of response. She reflects on her experiences, quotes Viktor Frankl, and invites listeners to consider their own responses to life's circumstances. Keywords personal growth, mindfulness, Redwood National Park, Viktor Frankl, response, resilience, reflection,...

Chief Tom Synan shares his journey from childhood purpose to leading community efforts in addiction response, emphasizing empathy, vulnerability, and collaboration in addressing complex social issues. Keywords police leadership, addiction response, empathy, community coalition, mental health, grief, vulnerability, social issues, law enforcement, purpose Key topics Chief Synan's early purpose and c...

Veronica Sterling shares her transformative journey through Yosemite and Big Sur, highlighting lessons on resilience, acceptance, and choosing how to respond to life's unexpected challenges. Keywords personal growth, resilience, acceptance, Yosemite, Big Sur, life lessons, travel, injury, mindset, reflection Key topics Resilience and mindset during travel Lessons from falling and injury in nature...

In this insightful interview, change expert Mark Stelzner shares his journey from aerospace engineering to transformation leadership, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, empathy, and courage in navigating change. Discover practical strategies for personal growth, organizational transformation, and preparing for the future of work amidst AI advancements.   KEYWORDS change management, leadershi...

Veronica Sterling shares her transformative experience in Kings Canyon National Park, exploring the giant sequoias, navigating weather challenges, and reflecting on the importance of connection and community in uncertain times. Keywords Kings Canyon, Sequoia National Park, giant sequoias, connection, community, travel, nature, resilience, personal growth Key topics The unique ecosystem of Kings Ca...

In this uplifting conversation, Claire Edwards, speaker, author, and morning routine coach shares insights to guide our clarity in what truly matters and make space to pursue the passions in our life. If you’ve experienced disruption and are looking for ways to reorient yourself, Claire’s insight and encouragement will help you build new capacity to move forward.   GUEST BIO Claire Edwards is a Mo...

Veronica Sterling shares insights on supporting friends through grief, emphasizing the importance of connection, presence, and empathy, set against the backdrop of her trip to Death Valley National Park. Keywords grief support, emotional connection, friendship, empathy, mental health, personal growth Key topics Steps to support a grieving friend The importance of listening and following the lead T...

In this heartfelt interview, Christopher Littrell shares his personal journey through grief, recovery, and the power of human connection. He discusses how courage, faith, and community have helped him navigate life's peaks and valleys, offering insights for those facing their own challenges.   GUEST Christopher Littrell is a retired law enforcement officer with almost 20 years of experience servin...