The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis

Losing a job isn’t just about missing a paycheck — it can unravel your sense of identity, safety, and purpose. For many women, especially those navigating life on their own, job loss brings a cascade of emotional and practical challenges. But within that uncertainty also lies an opportunity for reinvention, reflection, and storytelling. This episode explores what it means to experience—and rise fr...

There’s a powerful shift happening for women stepping into the later seasons of life. The “Third Act” is no longer about winding down—it’s about reigniting purpose, rediscovering identity, and rewriting what it means to thrive in your 60s, 70s, and beyond. It’s a time to reflect on everything you’ve lived, learned, and led—and to ask, “What’s still waiting for me?” This stage can be the most impac...

There’s something truly transformative about stepping away from your day-to-day life and immersing yourself in a retreat experience. Whether it’s a journey to a new destination or a space for intentional reflection, retreats offer the opportunity to reconnect with your inner self, gain clarity, and ignite growth. They are designed not just for rest, but for reawakening—a sacred pause that can lead...

What happens when life as you know it falls apart — and instead of breaking down, you decide to board a plane and find yourself again? Sometimes the best way to get clarity is to step away from the noise and give yourself space to breathe. Travel has a way of helping us see things differently — not just the world, but ourselves. It’s in those quiet, unfamiliar places that we often begin to hear ou...

Speaking is one of the most powerful ways to grow your visibility, share your story, and create meaningful impact—but so many people don’t know where to begin, especially if they’re not being invited to speak (yet!). The truth is, speaking isn’t the destination—it’s the vehicle that helps you connect with more people and grow your business. You don’t have to wait for a stage or a formal invitation...

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose yourself in the roles you play—parent, partner, professional, caregiver—until you realize you’ve been running on empty. What happens when your body and spirit finally demand you pause? That moment of reckoning can feel terrifying, but it may also be the beginning of a powerful transformation. This episode explores what it truly means to stop, reflect,...

Public speaking sounds exciting, right? Standing in front of a room, sharing your story, dropping wisdom, and making an impact. But here’s the truth: even the most seasoned speakers still get butterflies (and sometimes full-blown tornadoes) before stepping on stage. Speaking isn’t just about being polished — it’s about connection, preparation, and heart. In this solo episode, I’m taking you behind...

What does it really take to build powerful, authentic relationships that stand the test of time—and fuel your personal and professional growth? It’s not about collecting contacts or chasing visibility. It’s about being intentional, generous, and showing up in meaningful ways for the people who matter. In today’s world of fast connections and online noise, cultivating rich relationships is more imp...

At the core of every meaningful connection is a voice—a story waiting to be heard. Whether we share it through writing, speaking, or conversation, our voice is one of the most powerful tools we have to create impact and find alignment in life and business. But too often, we silence ourselves out of fear, doubt, or disconnection. This episode is a deep dive into what it really means to find your vo...

What does it really mean to reclaim your power and be seen in a world that often encourages women to stay quiet or small? Whether it’s in your relationships, your business, or your daily life, owning your voice and stepping fully into visibility can feel like a radical act of self-trust. This conversation is all about breaking free from patterns of playing small and learning how to advocate for yo...

Words have the power to shape perceptions, ignite action, and create lasting connections. Effective messaging isn't just about what you say, but how you say it. It's the art of telling stories that resonate, evoke emotion, and inspire change. In the world of communication, mastering the power of language is key to unlocking influence, impact, and the ability to leave a mark. In this episode, I sit...

Ever feel like creating content is way harder than it should be? Say hello to the TICS method—a ridiculously simple formula to keep your content fresh, engaging, and effective. TICS stands for Teach, Inspire, Connect, and Sell, the four pillars that make content creation a breeze. Whether you're writing emails, crafting social posts, or recording a podcast, this method will help you strike the per...

Marketing today is more than just ads, funnels, and social media posts—it’s about connection. Storytelling is the secret weapon that turns passive audiences into engaged communities and customers into lifelong fans. By weaving authentic stories into your marketing, you create a brand that stands out, resonates, and inspires action. But are you truly leveraging storytelling in a way that moves the...

What is the lifeblood of any thriving business? Messaging and visibility.   The right message attracts the right audience, and showing up boldly ensures they actually hear it. But too often, entrepreneurs struggle to clearly articulate what they do—and fear holds them back from putting themselves out there.   In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Brass-Russell, a business and life coach who help...

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence isn’t just optional—it’s essential. Your digital footprint is the content, stories, and expertise you share online that allow people to find and connect with you. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, speaker, author, or business owner, the way people discover and trust you has changed. If you’re not actively shaping your digital presence, you’re m...

Public speaking is one of the most common fears, but what if there was a way to make it easier (and even fun)? Improv, the art of spontaneous storytelling, can help you become a more confident speaker by teaching you to think on your feet, embrace the unexpected, and trust yourself in the moment. Whether you’re standing on a big stage, leading a meeting, or introducing yourself at a networking eve...

Running a business is one thing, but running it with your sibling? That’s a whole different level! Sisters Krissy Chin and Claire VanBemmelen have built multiple businesses together, and through trial, error, and plenty of laughs, they’ve mastered the art of balancing family and entrepreneurship. Their secret? Playing to their strengths—Krissy is the big-picture strategist, while Claire is the cre...

Winning at parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. It’s about building trust, fostering open conversations, and creating a space where kids feel safe to share their thoughts and emotions. It’s about learning how to listen, how to respond with empathy, and how to navigate the ups and downs of family life together. When families improve their communication, they create an environment...

Sharing your story can feel uncomfortable—believe me, I know! It’s a vulnerable act that often pushes us far outside our comfort zones. But I’ve learned that stepping into this discomfort is exactly what allows us to create connection, inspire others, and fulfill a bigger purpose. If you’ve ever hesitated to share your story because it feels scary or overwhelming, this episode is for you. In this...

I'm back to my storytelling roots! After a brief holiday hiatus, I've been reflecting on how to best serve my audience. I realized that while marketing tactics are important, my true passion lies in sharing powerful stories. This episode is all about shifting your mindset from "marketing" to "storytelling" and how this simple shift can transform your business. In this episode, I explore the idea o...

After taking a much-needed hiatus, I’m thrilled to be back with The Inside Story Podcast! Stepping away for a little over a month allowed me to reflect, recalibrate, and realign the podcast’s mission with my heart. I realized it was time to take a fresh approach—one that puts storytelling front and center. Now, as we get into 2025, I’m excited to share updates, cast a vision for the future, and re...

Eating disorders affect millions of people worldwide, yet they are often misunderstood or overlooked. Disordered eating behaviors can range from restrictive dieting to binge eating and are influenced by a variety of factors, including societal pressures, personal experiences, and even generational legacies. Understanding these behaviors and the stories behind them is a crucial step toward healing...

Personal branding is more than just a logo or a set of colors—it’s about creating a lasting impression that reflects your true essence. Your brand is your story, your message, and the way you connect with others, both online and offline. In today’s world, building an authentic and memorable brand is essential for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone looking to increase their visibility.   In this ep...

Diversity and equality are not just buzzwords—they’re foundations for creating inclusive communities. Embracing diversity means honoring different backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences while fostering a culture of respect and equity. Beyond policies and training, real diversity work involves cultivating understanding and unity that strengthen teams, inspire innovation, and build trust....

"Don't be into trends. Don't make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way to live." —Gianni Versace   Fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a reflection of who we are and how we want to express ourselves to the world. But for many women, shopping and getting dressed can feel overwhelming or tied to outdated trends.   What if fashion...