Phoenix and Flame Podcast

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs sits down with three-time bestselling author and forgiveness coach Katharine Giovanni to talk about the idea of forgiveness—we're told to do it, but rarely taught how. Katharine  explains that forgiveness isn't about excusing someone's behavior or even reconciling with them; it's a tool for your own healing. She shares a practical, step-by-ste...

In this episode, host Dana Skaggs sits down with Kristal Desantis to talk about why traditional masculinity is struggling in modern relationships. Kristal describes what she calls the "broken script," where old-school roles of men as sole protectors and providers clash with today's need for emotional partnership. This leaves a lot of men caught in a "masculinity trap"—criticized for being too stoi...

In this episode, host Dana Skaggs is joined by fellow boundaries coach Barb Nangle, who shares her journey of navigating what she calls "relational trauma." She reveals how trauma can take the form of a quiet, ongoing pattern of emotional invalidation, not just a sudden, explosive moment. Through 12-step recovery, Barb discovered a path to healing and reframes boundary-setting as an act of integri...

Join host Dana Skaggs and organizational researcher Craig Mattson as they dive into the pressures of the modern workplace. Using powerful metaphors like "the wave" of digital overwhelm and the "life raft" of coping strategies, they explore why remote work often feels confusing and detached. The conversation tackles the big question: "Should I quit if my job feels meaningless?" Craig reveals the fo...

In this episode, Matt O'Neill reveals how to achieve "conscious happiness" even when life feels chaotic. He explains that the common belief of "I'll be happy when..." is a deceptive trap that keeps us constantly striving but never satisfied. Matt reframes negative moods not as personal flaws, but as predictable functions of our "survival brain" that can be overcome. His solution is a set of simple...

In this episode, Dana Skaggs is joined by neurodiversity advocate Khushboo Chabria, who shares her journey to empowerment after a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis. Khushboo explains why feeling misunderstood isn't a personal failure but often a sign of a workplace culture that lacks true acceptance. She introduces a powerful mindset shift: replacing judgment with "compassionate curiosity."  Learn how t...

In this episode, Dana is joined by coach Arnold Beekes to talk about his journey from a rigid upbringing rooted in extreme conformity to a life of authenticity. Arnold shares how most of us are "conditioned" from a young age, losing sight of what we truly want and living to meet other people's expectations. He breaks down why comparison is a trap and introduces the "Art of Unconditioning"—a proces...

In this episode, Brad Chandler shares his journey of overcoming unresolved childhood trauma. Brad reveals how his subconscious belief of "not being enough" led to two divorces, millions in business losses, and struggles with anxiety and addiction.  He explains that these negative behaviors were not flaws, but outdated survival mechanisms created by his brain in childhood. His breakthrough came not...

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame , Dana Skaggs welcomes Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier, psychologist, executive coach, and author of The Resilience Plan , to discuss the critical role of mental health and resilience in high-performing professionals. Together, they explore why winging it doesn't work when it comes to stress, how leaders often overlook their own mental health, and the power of havin...

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, fitness coach and entrepreneur Petar Krastev shares how he went from arriving in the UK with just 10 Euros in his pocket to building a life grounded in faith, fitness, and entrepreneurship. He opens up about facing homelessness, toxic relationships, and the challenges of supporting a child in his early years—yet still finding the drive to keep moving forward....

In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs welcomes happiness coach and co-founder of Limitless You, Yvonne Trost. Together, they explore the powerful journey of personal transformation. Yvonne shares her own inspiring story of overcoming significant life challenges including a devastating apartment fire, a difficult marriage, and a career change before learning to be herself again. Sh...

Victoria Pelletier is a highly accomplished corporate executive, board director, and author known as the "Turnaround Queen." She shares her remarkable journey of resilience, rising from a challenging childhood to achieving executive leadership roles by the age of 24 through sheer grit and determination. Along the way, she faced obstacles such as imposter syndrome and navigating bias as a queer wom...

Robert Hunt, also known as "The Accountability Guy," is the co-author of Nobody Cares Until You Do. In this episode, Robert opens up about his journey—how he dug himself out of deep debt and a victim mindset by leaning into personal accountability. He breaks down the difference between just being responsible and actually owning your actions and outcomes. Along the way, he calls out some common tra...

Winnie Rodgers, a real estate expert and marketing strategist, shares her journey of transformation and resilience. She discusses the importance of listening to one's intuition, navigating personal and professional boundaries, and empowering women in sales and entrepreneurship. Winnie shares her experiences in the real estate industry, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and the significan...

In this enlightening conversation, Mette Reebirk, an author and executive coach, shares her journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. Mette emphasizes the importance of questioning our thoughts and narratives, understanding the connection between thoughts and emotions, and the power of self-reflection. She discusses the impact of leadership on personal well-being, the necessity of emp...

In this solo episode, Dana Skaggs explores the complexities of setting and defending personal boundaries. She discusses the importance of understanding one's own emotional landscape, the fear of rejection, and the impact of past wounds on current behavior. Dana emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the role of support systems in navigating these challenges. Dana's Linked In Page Dana's websit...

Marni Battista, an entrepreneur, author, and transformational coach, shares her journey of rebuilding her life and finding meaning after experiencing hardships. She emphasizes the importance of creating a life that aligns with one's values and desires. Marni also discusses the challenges of dating and the need for self-love and self-worth in the dating process. She provides insights on overcoming...

H. Jackson Calame, a visionary entrepreneur, shares his journey of overcoming challenges and setting boundaries to pursue his passion. He discusses the importance of finding purpose and belonging, as well as the power of saying no.  Jackson emphasizes the need to treat others with respect and care, especially in the business world. He also highlights the value of perseverance and transformation in...

Sarah Jantausch shares her journey of being a high-performing perfectionist and experiencing burnout. She started her career in government and quickly climbed the ladder, always thinking the next promotion would make her happy. However, she realized that she was designing her entire life and career around the value of achievement, which led to burnout. Sarah emphasizes the importance of values ali...

  Amita Sharma, co-founder of NourishDoc, shares her personal struggles as a perimenopausal woman in the corporate world and how she is using her experience to help other women. She discusses the lack of awareness and support for women going through perimenopause in the workplace and the need for a holistic approach to wellness. Amita emphasizes the importance of dietary modifications, lifestyle c...

Susan Winchester, former chief HR officer, discusses how the workplace can be a laboratory for emotional healing and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing how our childhood experiences shape our behavior and relationships in the workplace. Susan shares her own journey of healing and provides practical strategies for managing workplace conflict and setting boundaries. She in...

Carolyn Swora, a leadership consultant and certified "Dare to Lead" facilitator, shares her journey into trauma-informed leadership. She discusses the importance of understanding the nervous system and how it impacts our ability to be vulnerable and present in the workplace. Carolyn emphasizes the need to recognize and address emotional wounds and develop a compassionate relationship with our bodi...

Dr. Stephan Neff, a doctor and former patient, shares his personal experiences with trauma, addiction, and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of addressing past traumas and core beliefs that to addictive behaviors. Dr. Neff discusses the role of substances as coping mechanisms and the need to find healthier ways to deal with emotions. He highlights the power of fear inoculation and the ab...

Kim Mosiman, a nutritionist and author, shares her journey of reclaiming her health and discusses the importance of self-love and body responsibility. She emphasizes the need to prioritize our health and make intentional choices, even in the midst of a busy life. Kim encourages women to let go of expectations and focus on becoming who they want to be in their second act. She also highlights the si...

Shelly Starks, CEO of Inline Consulting Services, shares her journey of personal and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of understanding behavioral styles and setting boundaries. She discusses the challenges she faced, including a difficult divorce, her daughter's medical issues, and her own health struggles. Shelly highlights the significance of embracing the journey, facing and feel...