Jill Van Balen
Finding Your Inspiration
Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is...
Where to listen?
Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soonPodcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts
Episodes
#95 | How a Young Country Artist is Marketing Her Music in 2025: Macie Rae 16.09.2025 29:22
At just 14 years old, singer-songwriter Macie Rae Lewis is already learning what it takes to chase a dream. From her first garage band to performing at the O.C. Fair, auditioning for America's Got Talent and The Voice, and preparing for American Idol, Macie is building her career one step at a time. In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Macie shares how she uses merch, social media, and p...
#94 | The Power of Saying Yes: Bella Balsamo's Life-Changing Story 15.09.2025 36:57
On this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Bella Balsoma shares her powerful story of survival. After a near-death experience, Bella was forced to reimagine what life truly means — and she chose to embrace every moment with her mantra: say yes to life. Her journey is a reminder that we don't get forever. Every day is a choice, every opportunity is a gift, and every "yes" can lead to transformat...
#93 | Stop Waiting. Start Trying: Liam Fountain 02.09.2025 35:57
What if the only thing between you and your next chapter is… trying? Liam Fountain wears many hats—actor, USA Masters amateur boxing champ, stunt/fight performer, and president of an Irish Catholic fraternity. His story proves a simple rule: if you don't try, nothing happens. From hotel housekeeping to PA gigs, bar security, Jimmy Kimmel Live! bits, and stepping into the ring over 40—Liam shows ho...
#92 | Breaking Barriers in Politics: Fiona Ma's Inspiring Story 18.08.2025 31:36
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Fiona Ma, the California State Treasurer. From growing up as the oldest child of immigrant parents in New York, to becoming one of the most influential women in California politics, Fiona's journey is rooted in perseverance, public service, and financial expertise. She shares her story of breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces, her...
#91 | 34 Years, One Mission: Shannon D. Dicus Serving the People of San Bernadino County 05.08.2025 46:09
In this episode, we sit down with Shannon D. Dicus, the 36th Sheriff of San Bernardino County, to explore his powerful journey from a small desert town to leading one of the largest sheriff's departments in the U.S. From his military roots to working the jail system, from VA policing to turning down a shot at the FBI, Sheriff Dicus shares what really led him to a career in law enforcement—and wh...
#90 | Building Wealth Isn't Magic—It's a Plan: Malik Mallory's Financial Journey 28.07.2025 49:31
Malik Mallory isn't just a financial advisor—he's a self-made entrepreneur who built his own wealth management firm from the ground up. In this episode, he shares how growing up around crime, hardship, and systemic disadvantage fueled his desire to do better—for himself, his family, and his community. He breaks down money myths, how anyone can start investing, and why owning your time is the ultim...
#89 | The Day I Had to Save My Father in Jail: D'Andre Lampkin's Power of Perspective 08.07.2025 38:19
In Part 2 of D'Andre Lampkin's journey, we dive even deeper into family, faith, and what it means to break generational cycles. From discovering hidden ties between both sides of his family, to caring for the father who never raised him — D'Andre shares how his moments of changing perspective shaped his mission to serve others. 🔗 Learn more and support: ➤ D'Andre's work: https://lampkinfoundation...
#88 | Public Servant D'Andre Lampkin | Why Growing Up in South Central Pushed Me to Serve Others 02.07.2025 33:08
In Part 1 of this powerful two-part episode, we dive deep into the early life of D'Andre Lampkin—community leader, nonprofit founder, and public servant. Raised by a single mother in South Central L.A., D'Andre faced constant exposure to gang violence, police neglect, and poverty. But instead of becoming a product of his environment, he rose above it. From joining the Sheriff's Department's Expl...
#87 | Reed Fox: Fighting Poverty and Strengthening Communities Through Soccer 27.06.2025 26:02
In this episode, we sit down with Reed Fox—a social impact leader using the power of soccer to help people rebuild their lives. From building street soccer parks to launching programs in prisons, domestic abuse shelters, refugee camps, and with military veterans, Reed's mission is simple: help people through sports. He partners with organizations like National CORE and Hope through Housing to br...
#86 | Reviving America's First Black-Owned Opera House: Jonnet Solomon 16.06.2025 31:58
In this episode, we sit down with Jonnet Solomon, a cultural visionary who is leading the charge to restore America's first Black-owned opera house, located in the heart of Pittsburgh. Originally from Georgetown, Guyana, Joni came to the U.S. and eventually found herself drawn to a historic but forgotten building. That building turned out to be the National Opera House—a landmark in Black American...
#85 | Paralyzed at 15: Zack Collie's Inspiring Comeback Story 16.06.2025 41:22
In this episode, we sit down with Zack Collie, a motivational speaker and disability advocate who became a quadriplegic at age 15 after a diving accident. But what could have ended his dreams instead became the start of a powerful transformation. Zack shares his story of adjusting to life in a wheelchair, finding purpose through higher education, and building a new path forward—even when the world...
#84 | Trauma Didn't Win: Actress Sierra Nowak's Breakthrough Journey 05.06.2025 31:53
In this episode, we sit down with Sierra Nowak—a rising actress, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Raised in Akron, Ohio, Sierra's early life was marked by instability: a mother battling with mental health issues, a father who was a disabled veteran coping with PTSD, and a home filled with anger, substance abuse, and neglect. But Sierra's story is about more than survival—it's about transf...
#83 | Helping People Heal: Life Lessons from Inside a Rehab Center 16.05.2025 37:37
In this episode, we sit down with Mark, an inspiring actor and addiction recovery advocate who works at a private rehabilitation center. Mark shares his journey from growing up in Staten Island as the son of Filipino immigrants, to discovering his purpose through service and storytelling. He opens up about how faith, family, and cultural values shaped his identity, how his acting career intersecte...
#82 | Entrepreneurship Done Right | A Health & Wellness Business Success Story 12.05.2025 25:40
In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Wine, an inspiring entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry. Maddie shares her journey from growing up as the oldest of eight children in a chaotic yet loving family, to carving out her path as a business leader in the multicultural space. She opens up about the life lessons she learned early on, the influence of her grandfather, and how sports taug...
#81 | Super Bowl Champion Ira Matthews: From NFL Stardom to Inspiring the Next Generation 05.05.2025 33:41
In this episode, we sit down with Ira Matthews, a Super Bowl 15 champion with the Oakland Raiders. Ira shares his incredible journey from growing up in Rockford, Illinois, to becoming part of NFL history with the Raiders. His story is one of perseverance, leadership, and the importance of community support. Ira talks about his legacy on and off the field, his role in raising awareness for autism t...
#80 | The NFL Fan Experience You've Never Seen: Ross Rick and the Raider Nation Golf Club 29.04.2025 26:51
In this episode, we sit down with Ross Ricks, founder of Raider Nation Golf Club and Alpha Team Golf—two movements turning die-hard football fans into weekend warriors on the course. What started as a simple idea to blend Raider fandom and charity has exploded into a full-scale initiative to bring NFL alumni and fans together for unforgettable match-play tournaments. Whether you're a Raider lifer,...
#79 | Enduring the World's Hardest Triathlon | Amputee Athlete Survives the Norseman 16.04.2025 24:49
In this episode, Paul Tully catches up with athlete David Whelan, diving into his incredible experience at the notorious Norsman triathlon, known as the toughest in the world. David recalls the grueling hills and relentless conditions he faced during the race, driven by his mantra, "Take the hill." He shares the mental battles he encountered, especially during the marathon, highlighting how he tur...
#78 | Entrepreneurship with a Purpose: How Jeff Burm is redefining Community Impact Through National Core 10.04.2025 54:26
In this epic episode, Paul Tully has an engaging conversation with Jeff Burum, a dedicated entrepreneur and founder and chairman of National Core, who is passionate about making a difference in the community through affordable housing. Jeff shares the inspiring story of his upbringing and how his mother's resilience shaped his core values. He discusses his involvement in the Major Arena Soccer Lea...
#77 | Finding Your Inspiration Through Storytelling: Insights From Screenplay Writer, Thomas Pound 20.03.2025 55:02
Get ready for an inspiring episode of the Finding Your Inspiration with Paul Tully and writer and producer Thomas Pound. Thomas shares his journey from a childhood filled with a love for film in Calgary to navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry. *CHECK OUT THOMAS'S SOCIAL PROFILES:* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-pound-6537b57/ IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm32...
#76 | The Pursuit of Greatness: From Incarceration To Successful Entrepreneur 11.03.2025 44:18
In this incredible edition of the Finding Your Inspired Podcast, Paul Tully re-connects with Manuel Rios. From enlisting in the American military to becoming a drug trafficker, Manuel's path is nothing short of remarkable—he turned his life around and started a profitable company. This honest conversation explores resiliency, atonement, and the unrelenting quest for a better future. #Resilience...
#75 | The LA Firefighter's Code: Overcoming Adversity, Family Values & Hard Work 03.03.2025 39:45
Join Paul Tully in this powerful episode of the Finding Your Inspiration Podcast as he sits down with Rick Ortiz, a Los Angeles firefighter with 33 years of service, and his son, Rickey Ortiz, a dedicated content creator and YouTuber. This compelling conversation dives into the resilience, discipline, and hard work that shaped their lives. *CHECK OUT RICK&RICKEY'S SOCIAL PROFILES:* YouTube: https:...
#74 | How Gabrielle Walsh Balances Her Acting Career & Personal Growth: Found TV Show Insights 24.02.2025 27:37
Join Gabrielle Walsh as she opens up about her acting career, her role in NBC's Found TV Series, and the passion that drives her work. In this episode of the Gabrielle Walsh Podcast, she shares insights into the entertainment industry, balancing her personal growth and what it's like to be part of the cast of Found TV Series. From navigating the highs and lows of the industry to celebrating NAACP...
#73 | Found Actress & Her Financial Freedom: Part 1 of What's Gabrielle Walsh's Secret to Acting Success 24.02.2025 33:44
The gifted actress of NBC's hit drama *Found*, *Gabrielle Walsh*, shares deep insights into her acting career, detailing the highs and lows of her journey in Hollywood. She opens up about the challenges of breaking into the industry, the persistence required to land a series of regular roles, and the reality of balancing financial stability in an unpredictable business. From struggling with career...
#72 | Self-Discovery & Personal Growth: Natasha Elias on Acting, Identity & Chasing Dreams 24.02.2025 27:29
Natasha Elias, a renowned actress, filmmaker, coach, and entrepreneur, takes us on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. From navigating cultural background to harnessing the power of acting, creativity, and self-awareness, Natasha shares invaluable insights on embracing all parts of yourself without judgment. Drawing from her Miami upbringing influenced by Peruvian and A...
#71 | From Hollywood Chaos to Sobriety: A Film Producer's Redemption After Addiction & Homelessness 03.02.2025 50:25
From Hollywood producer to rock bottom and back again—this is a story of redemption you don't want to miss. Michael Rothman, a film producer known for his work in rock videos, concert production, and the entertainment industry, opens up about his sobriety journey, overcoming addiction, and the life crisis that led to homelessness. From self-destruction and battling drug addiction to embracing 12-...
Similar podcasts
Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.