In this inspiring episode of Motivational Talks with Ash, Ashley sits down with a powerhouse woman whose story embodies faith, perseverance, and purpose. She’s a devoted mom, successful entrepreneur, restaurateur, motivational speaker, and host of the podcast Where Passion Meets Purpose. As an entrepreneurship coach and soon-to-be author of Guided By Grace: Follow the Breadcrumbs to Your Life’s True Purpose, she shares her powerful journey of trusting divine timing, overcoming challenges, and building a life led by grace.
Tune in to discover how following the breadcrumbs in your own life can lead you closer to your purpose — and how grace has a way of guiding us exactly where we’re meant to be.
🎧 Listen now and be inspired to walk boldly in your purpose.
Connect with Jen via Instagram @jen_mentesana or
jenmentesana.com
In this episode, I sit down with my 99-year-old grandpa to hear his incredible journey from Mexico to the U.S. Navy, raising eight children, and becoming a proud U.S. citizen. After quitting drinking and smoking cold turkey, he’s been sober for over 30 years — and today, he shares his wisdom for living a long, meaningful life.
After surviving unthinkable loss and a near-death crisis, keynote speaker and bestselling author Laura Chavez Weintraub shares how she turned pain into purpose. In this episode, we talk about healing, happiness, and how to make your soul-aligned comeback.
To join The Women Speakers Collective for "Your Voice Matters: Setting The Stage To Impact Humanity" Please visit:
https://marladiann.com/your-voice-matters/
Use code AUG50 to get $50 OFF
This episode is dedicated to my Father, Rolando Rendon. (Nov 30, 1961-June 4, 2025)
In this vulnerable solo episode, I open up about losing my father and how I’ve been navigating the waves of grief and anxiety that followed.
From the initial shock to the quiet, lingering pain, I share what this journey has taught me about love, loss, and allowing myself to feel.
Whether you're grieving, supporting someone who is, or just holding space for honest conversations around mental health and healing — this one’s from the heart.
🎧 Topics in this episode:
• The day my world shifted
• How grief and anxiety intertwine
• Learning to rest and receive support
Whether you’re in the thick of it or reflecting on your own healing journey, I invite you to listen in — and be reminded that grief doesn’t mean you’re broken… it means you loved deeply.
Dianette Wells is an elite mountaineer, adventure racer, and author who embodies the power of passion-driven resilience. One of fewer than 500 people to conquer the Seven Summits—including Everest, Kilimanjaro, and Denali—she’s also raced 150+ miles across deserts, biked across America, and competed in multiple Eco-Challenges an ultra-marathons worldwide, many televised (Amazon Prime’s World’s Toughest Race, 48 Hours’ Eco-Challenge Borneo, Discovery Channel’s World Championship, and the documentary, American Daredevil).
A mother of three, Dianette’s journey took a profound turn in 2015 when her son Johnny, a record-setting adventurer, died in a wingsuit accident. Channeling grief into grit, Dianette continued pushing her boundaries, from summiting peaks to writing her memoir, Another Step Up the Mountain. Dianette is now on a mission, through her speaking and writing, to inspire others to chase their own “Everest”, whatever the odds.
For more information, visit:
https://dianettewells.com/
Born in Togo and now thriving in the U.S., Claudine McDaniel is the founder of Beyond Conquerors, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering women through education, training, and employment opportunities. Since its launch in 2020, the organization has transformed lives, including training 45 women through a Montgomery County grant in 2024.That same year, Claudine introduced The Life Wow Program, helping women rebuild confidence, uncover talents, and pursue brighter futures. As the author of More Than Conquerors: From Struggles to Forgiveness, From Forgiveness to Blessings, she shares her inspiring journey of resilience and faith.Claudine’s commitment extends to feeding the hungry weekly and hosting events like a 2022 women’s conference. Her prior experience at Empiracal CPA shaped her leadership, driving her mission to empower others and create lasting change.
https://beyondconquerors.org/
In this episode, we sit down with world-traveling wedding videographer Brain, whose passion for filmmaking has taken him across the globe. But behind the stunning visuals and adventurous lifestyle was a battle many don’t see—using food as a coping mechanism for depression.
Brian opens up about his struggles with overeating, the moment he decided to face his mental health head-on, and how tackling the root of his depression led to a life-changing weight loss journey. He shares the highs and lows of self-discovery, the impact of creativity on healing, and how laughter, adventure, and storytelling have played a crucial role in his transformation.
This is a conversation about resilience, self-awareness, and finding joy on the other side of struggle. If you’ve ever turned to food, distractions, or unhealthy habits to cope, this episode is for you. Tune in for an inspiring and honest discussion about mental health, weight loss, and the power of taking control of your story.
For more about Brian, please visit:
https://atlasrosestudios.com,
@atlasrosestudios on all social platforms
In this powerful episode, our guest shares her incredible journey of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation. From overcoming an eating disorder, multiple marriages and divorces, and rebuilding her life after moving to a new state, to battling injuries, surgeries, and even taking on a legal fight for what she believed in—she has faced it all.
Despite the challenges, she found the strength to start over, reconnecting with her college sweetheart after more than 20 years apart. Now, at 48, she’s in the best shape of her life and on a mission to inspire others. She dives into the importance of self-love, breaking free from people-pleasing, and prioritizing health—inside and out.
Her message is clear: Age does not define us. Our health is our greatest investment. And true love—whether for ourselves or with a partner—begins from within. Tune in to hear her story of perseverance, growth, and the power of reclaiming your life on your own terms!
Your Voice Matters- https://marladiann.com/your-voice-matters/
In this episode of Motivational Talks With Ash, we sit down with Dorian, a passionate energy healer and founder of Levitate, a wellness practice in Orange County, California. With over 13 years of experience, Dorian specializes in guiding individuals toward healing, balance, and self-discovery through Sound, Aroma, and Energy Work.
Join us as we explore the power of sound healing, aromatherapy, and holistic energy detox programs—plus how Dorian creates a nurturing space for transformation. Whether working one-on-one, hosting community events, or collaborating with organizations, Dorian’s mission is to help others reconnect with their inner power and elevate their well-being.
www.levitate2greatness.com --
IG/TK/FB/Youtube: @levitate2greatness
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with a talented drummer who shares his incredible journey of chasing a dream. Originally from the small town of Ozark, MO, he packed his bags and moved to Los Angeles in 2010 at just 20 years old, determined to make it in the music industry. The road wasn’t easy, but his relentless hard work and dedication paved the way for success.
By 2014, he made his way to Orange County, where he began building his reputation by working with local bands and renowned studios like 17th Street. Today, he’s living his dream, traveling the world as a full-time drummer. But his passion doesn’t stop there—he’s also the founder of OC JAMMERS, a business dedicated to spreading the joy of drumming to everyone, including individuals with special needs. Through this initiative, he’s helping people experience the magic of music and rhythm while fostering a sense of community.
Tune in to hear his incredible story of perseverance, creativity, and giving back to others through the power of music. This is one journey you won’t want to miss!
https://www.ocjammers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ocjammers/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== https://www.instagram.com/iansforeman89/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
Jackie is the visionary founder of Hinterland Health Retreat, a world-first rehabilitation facility that combines revolutionary neuro-technology with leading holistic therapies to offer a truly personalized and transformative experience.
Her story is one of profound resilience and transformation. After enduring trauma and sexual abuse, she embarked on a journey to find effective ways to manage stress, anxiety, and PTSD. This quest led her to become an EFT practitioner and counselor, with over 15 years of experience working both nationally in Australia and internationally at rehabilitation centers, health retreats, and in private practice.
Driven by her passion for helping others heal and truly thrive, Jackie has created a health retreat unlike any other. Her discovery of advanced neuro-technology, previously unavailable outside the U.S., when combined with traditional mind and body therapies, results in significant, lasting transformations for individuals.
www.hinterlandhealthretreat.com
https://www.facebook.com/hinterlandhealthretreat/
https://www.instagram.com/hinterlandhealthretreat/
In this episode we’re joined by Victoria. An inspiring guest who shares her journey from being a collegiate golfer with dreams of going pro to facing the life-altering diagnosis of achalasia, an incurable and degenerative illness. Despite the challenges, she has found a new purpose—becoming a passionate advocate for chronic and rare illnesses, C-PTSD, and mental health.
Join us as we explore her story of resilience, the obstacles she’s overcome, and her mission to raise awareness and create change. This is an episode filled with courage, hope, and the power of turning adversity into advocacy.
To Learn more about the Aimee Oki Foundation please visit:
https://www.aimeeokifoundation.org/
In this deeply personal episode, Ash invites her father to share his childhood story—a journey marked by hardship, resilience, and growth. Together, they explore how his experiences shaped both his life and hers, tracing the impact of generational trauma and the steps they’ve taken to break long-standing cycles.
Through candid conversation, they reflect on how they’ve learned to listen to one another, forgive the past, and find healing together. With vulnerability and grace, they reveal the lessons they’ve discovered about resilience, understanding, and the healing power of family connection.
In this episode, we bring you the powerful and transformative story of our guest, Lonzo, who spent years feeling like a male trapped inside a female body. He will share his journey of transitioning, not only his identity, but from life behind bars. Through sheer determination and resilience, he made the remarkable decision to go back to school and earn a bachelor's degree, finding purpose in his life experience. Join us to hear this inspiring tale of self-discovery, perseverance, and triumph against all odds.
Join us, as we dive into the love story of a couple who met in college and dreamed of changing the world together. When their plans unexpectedly fell through, they found themselves on a different path—one that led them to the exciting and unconventional life of digital nomads.
Listen as they recount their journey from campus sweethearts with a shared mission, to navigating the ups and downs of life on the road. They share how they turned a setback into an opportunity, embraced the freedom of remote work, and discovered new ways to live out their passion for adventure and making a difference.
In this compelling episode, we sit down with Matthew, who shares his remarkable story of being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes a week before his 27th birthday, making him one of the oldest cases on record. Matthew opens up about the initial shock and the profound changes that followed his diagnosis. He offers an intimate look into the challenges and triumphs of adapting to life with diabetes, from managing daily blood sugar levels to navigating social and professional life with this new identity.
Join us as we explore his journey of resilience, adaptation, and the strategies he's developed to thrive despite the unexpected turn his health has taken. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the human spirit's ability to adapt and overcome adversity.
Our guest today has a story that will move you, inspire you, and remind you that no matter where you are in life, there's always an opportunity for change. From battling addiction to becoming an executive chef, their path is a beacon of hope for anyone facing their own struggles.
Resources for anyone battling addiction
https://www.usa.gov/substance-abuse
Find a meeting near you
https://www.aa.org/find-aa
Join us for an intimate and courageous journey as we delve into the deeply personal narrative of Bobby who bravely navigated the path of coming out to his Christian parents. In this episode, Bobby opens his heart to share his unique experiences, struggles, and triumphs in revealing his authentic self. Through honest conversations and heartfelt reflections, we explore the complexities of identity, faith, acceptance, and unconditional love. Tune in to gain insight, empathy, and inspiration from this powerful story of self-discovery and familial reconciliation. *The thoughts and opinions discussed in this episode are strictly those of the host and guest.
Books mentioned in this episode.
The Velvet Rage By Alan Downs
Mental Health Resources for LGBTQ+ community https://www.thetrevorproject.org
In this episode, Michelle (DJ Mish) shares the inspiring tale of her courageous move to a new country in pursuit of the ultimate rhythm. From the bustling streets of Taiwan to the neon-lit clubs of L.A., follow Mish’s footsteps as she navigates uncharted territories, both culturally and musically.
Tune in as DJ Mish unveils the challenges she faced, the highs and lows of her DJ career, and the cultural symphony that unfolded in this exhilarating quest. Mish’s journey will resonate with any aspiring DJ, music enthusiast, or anyone chasing their dreams. This episode is not just about beats; it's about breaking boundaries and creating a soundtrack for a life well-lived.
Hit play, and join us as we unravel the fascinating tale of Mish's international journey—a testament to the universal language of music and the relentless pursuit of dreams.