You don’t meet many people like Eldra Jackson III.
A man who once lived behind the walls of New Folsom Prison, Eldra doesn’t just talk about transformation—he embodies it.
What began as a sentence meant to contain him became the very soil where his healing took root.
Inside a maximum-security yard, Eldra sat in his first men’s circle. He showed up with walls, but walked out with something deeper: truth, vulnerability, and the terrifying freedom of being fully seen. That journey led him out of prison—and into purpose.
Today, Eldra is the Co-Executive Director of Inside Circle, a writer, mentor, and public speaker whose TED Talk on healing and masculinity has impacted thousands around the world. His work is a lifeline for at-risk youth, incarcerated men, and anyone ready to stop performing and start healing.
In this episode of The Brave Wrk Room to Grow Podcast, Eldra and I talk about:
Why emotional honesty is the foundation of true masculinity
How systems break men—and how circles can begin to rebuild them
What it means to lead from love instead of fear
This isn’t just a story of rehabilitation. It’s a call to all of us to stop pretending, go deeper, and lead from the heart.
To learn more or support the work, visit insidecircle.org.
Years ago, my friend Shawn’s entire world blew up—literally. A gas leak caused his house to explode, and in a single moment, life as he knew it was gone. But from the ashes came a story of radical healing, faith, and purpose.
Years ago, my friend Shawn Maguire’s entire world blew up—literally. A gas leak caused his house to explode, and in a single moment, life as he knew it was gone. But from the ashes came a story of radical healing, faith, and purpose.
Shawn Maguire is now one of Oklahoma’s most trusted therapists and the founder of New Vision Counseling & Consulting. He leads a team that walks with individuals, couples, and families through anxiety, trauma, marriage struggles, and leadership stress—with deep compassion and real results.
In this conversation, Shawn reminded me that true leadership isn’t about dominance or detachment—it’s about living and leading from the heart. We talk about how pain becomes purpose, how healing starts with honesty, and why emotional health is non-negotiable for the life you actually want.
If you’re ready to stop pretending and start healing, visit newvisioncounseling.org. And if you book a session, tell Shawn you’re a friend of Pedro’s—he’ll take great care of you.
Leadership isn’t about detachment, dominance, or emotionalism—it’s about living and leading from the heart. In this powerful conversation, Pastor J.D. from Intersection Church in Oregon, Ohio, joins me on the Brave Wrk Room to Grow Podcast to challenge the idea that leadership is lonely and to redefine what it means to lead with strength. We explore the role of emotions in leadership, why vulnerability isn’t weakness but power, and how Jesus modeled true leadership as “gentle and lowly of heart.” If you’ve ever felt like you have to be guarded or carry it all alone, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and practical wisdom for leading with authenticity.
🎙️ Get ready for an inspiring episode of Brave Work as we sit down with Brian Haley, also known as 'B Haley,' an accomplished musician who toured with 7-time Grammy winner Toby Mac for nineteen years.
🎸 Join us as Brian shares his remarkable journey from homelessness to gracing the world's biggest stages, offering insights into his transition from music to speaking and his passion for uniting people through the We Are 1 Movement.
🌟 Prepare to be inspired and equipped as Brian's story empowers listeners to walk with Jesus and embody his transformative love in their own lives. Tune in and be ready for an uplifting experience! #BraveWork #Inspiration #WeAre1Movement
🚀 About the Series: The Brave Work Leadership Series explores thought-provoking discussions with leaders, thinkers, and change-makers. This conversation with Mindy Caliguire is a brave exploration into the state of our churches, society, and souls, leaving listeners both rested and equipped for their soul-care journey.
👤 Guest: Mindy Caliguire - Co-founder and President of Soul Care, former executive leader at Gloo and Willow Creek Association (now Global Leadership Network), speaker, and advisor to organizations like Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and numerous churches and ministries worldwide. Author of Discovering Soul Care, Spiritual Friendship, STIR, and the upcoming Ignite Your Soul (September '24).
📌 Discussion Highlights:
🗣️ Key Takeaways:
🌟 Brave Work Leadership Series: This episode is part of the Brave Work Leadership Series, where we engage in courageous conversations with leaders who are making a difference in their respective fields. In this installment, Mindy Caliguire shares her wisdom on soul care, offering a unique blend of restful insights and practical tools to navigate the intricate tapestry of our lives.
🔗 Connect with Mindy:
In this episode, we embark on a thought-provoking journey with Kyle Wailes, CEO of Wellvana, delving into the multifaceted responsibilities of leadership and the unique perspectives that have shaped his trajectory in healthcare.
Kyle's insights into the responsibility that comes with being a CEO are profound, rooted in the belief that leadership isn't merely about steering a company but nurturing a vision that transcends boundaries. His journey underscores the notion that progress often comes hand in hand with pain, a testament to the challenges encountered in revolutionizing an industry.
We explore the habits that Kyle has cultivated, those intentional practices that forge the path to his envisioned future. His approach is bold, unapologetic, and driven by a commitment to innovation, laying the groundwork for transformative change within Wellvana and the healthcare landscape at large.
Amidst the pioneering endeavors, Kyle sheds light on the delicate balance of being a family man. The intricacies of leading on the frontier of innovation while fostering a strong family unit underscore the depth of his character and the values he embodies.
These dialogues with Kyle offer a rare glimpse into brave and unique perspectives—a testament to his unwavering commitment to steering Wellvana towards a future where healthcare isn't just reimagined, but redefined.
Join us as we navigate through these conversations, exploring the essence of leadership, the challenges of progress, the power of intentional habits, and the intricacies of balancing family amidst trailblazing innovation.
Prepare for an illuminating episode as we engage with Tim Schurrer, a trailblazing CEO, Author, and Keynote Speaker. Join us for a bold exploration of confidence, leadership, and the pursuit of ultimate success.
Tim fearlessly shares his journey, from a passion for music to assuming the helm as CEO of David Novak Leadership Inc., a groundbreaking Section 501(c)(3) private operating foundation. They are dedicated to fostering a better world through the development of exceptional leaders at every life stage. Tim's insights challenge traditional paradigms of achievement. Brace yourself for an inspiring discussion that redefines life and leadership, paving the way for a new, courageous approach to success.
Go buy this book right now! It's BRAVE.
THE SECRET SOCIETY OF SUCCESS BY: TIM SCHURRER
Website - http://BuildAWinningTeam.com
LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/timschurrer/
Instagram - https://instagram.com/timschurrer/
BRAND NEW: Be sure to follow us on Instagram or our Brave Wrk Website
Today's episode is a real treat—I [Pedro] had the pleasure of diving into the world of branding and marketing with none other than Brandon Triola, the CCO & Co-Founder of Forrest. Trust me, this conversation was a masterclass in branding, and I can't wait to share some highlights with you.
Brandon—award-winning designer, brand expert, entrepreneur, and all-around creative powerhouse—unpacked the essence of controlling perception. He opened our eyes to the power of guiding rather than being the hero of the story. Oh, and turning relevance into revenue? Yeah, he's got that down to an art.
But you know what truly resonated with me? His crystal-clear definition of marketing. It's not just ads and promotions; it's about actively listening and solving problems. He showed us how active listening is the key to cracking even the toughest marketing puzzles.
And here's the kicker: Brandon's golden question, "What do you want most?" This isn't just a simple inquiry—it's a gateway to uncovering the core of our desires, helping us cut through the noise and get straight to what truly matters.
His core message, distilled from our conversation, is a beacon of clarity in the often murky waters of marketing:
"Be the guide, not the hero. Control perception. Turn relevance into revenue. But above all, solve problems through active listening. And never forget to ask yourself, 'What do you want most?'"
Brandon Triola's insights are like a compass guiding us through the maze of branding and marketing, reminding us to always stay true to our purpose.
His brand new book is about to drop so be sure to snag it right away!
Welcome back to another episode of The Room To Grow Podcast. Today's a special one—I'm [Pedro] taking you behind the scenes of our first-ever men's retreat in the sunny, soulful paradise of Santa Rosa Beach, FL.
Let me tell you, taking the leap to organize this retreat was a mix of nerves and excitement. It was stepping into the unknown, embracing risk, and leaning into the discomfort of growth. But you know what? It was worth every moment.
There's something magical about feeling alive while stepping into the unknown, isn't there? It was hard, absolutely, but in that challenge, there was healing. I found myself embracing the risk, not just for the sake of it, but because it was a step towards what truly mattered—towards growth, connection, and a deeper understanding of myself.
And guess what? There were some key findings from this journey that I can't wait to share with you. Because these aren't just lessons from a retreat; they're tools you can apply to your everyday life.
First up, we dove into the power of vulnerability. It's not about being weak; it's about being brave enough to show up authentically. That vulnerability? It's where connection thrives.
Then, there's the beauty of discomfort. Yep, you heard that right—discomfort isn't always the enemy. It's often the signpost to growth. Embracing discomfort with an open heart? That's where the magic happens.
But wait, there's more! We uncovered the strength in community, in standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow travelers on this wild journey of life. The support and camaraderie? It's a game-changer.
So, my friend, consider this your toolbox for living a BRAVE life. These findings aren't just for my retreat attendees; they're for you, right here, right now. Because bravery isn't about doing huge, audacious things every day; it's about those small, consistent steps toward what sets your soul on fire.
Thanks for joining me on this adventure, and remember, you've got all you need to live a life that's bold, authentic, and utterly brave. Until next time, keep growing, keep seeking, and keep daring greatly.
Jessie and Charity Baroni Litzenberg conclude their time together by talking about motherhood. This conversation was deeply personal and uplifting. We know you will love it!
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We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
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Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
Jessie continues her conversation with her good friend, Charity Baroni Litzenberg. Charity opens up about her experience with trauma and her mental health journey.
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We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, I (Pedro) got to sit down with one of the bravest leaders I know. Charlie Mitchell is a well-known Speaker, Author, and Coach. He guides ambitious family men who have faced life-altering adversity, to navigate past traumas and future ambitions. He coaches men through a Mindset Transformation Journey, empowering them to heal, grow, and courageously pursue mastery.
Charlie recently went through a life-altering transplant journey and his wisdom about the meaning of life is unparalleled.
This episode is full of BRAVERY and AUTHENTICITY!
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin (Adam & his team curate my podcast) Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, Jessie sits down with her friend, Charity Baroni Litzenberg. Charity is a dancer and choreographer, best known for her time spent touring with Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift.
Part 1 of this 3 part series tells her brave story of how she made it onto some of the biggest stages in the world. Charity also pulls back the curtain to let us see the behind-the-scenes details of that lifestyle.
We so appreciate her honesty and vulnerability as her mountaintop moments were simultaneous with experiencing trama.
Her story is unique and one you don't want to miss.
For more, follow @jessielatorre aand @charitybaroni on instagram
|||||||
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast) Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, Jessie sat down with Nate Ernsberger. Nate has lived an incredibly unique life as a father and has seen some horrific suffering up close. Those experiences have softened his heart towards humanity and have shaped in him a dynamic leadership style. He is one of the most grounded people I have ever met and I can't wait for you to learn from him! This conversation is (3 of 3) with Nate Ernsberger.
|||||||
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, Jessie sat down with Nate Ernsberger. Nate has lived an incredibly unique life as a father and has seen some horrific suffering up close. Those experiences have softened his heart towards humanity and have shaped in him a dynamic leadership style. He is one of the most grounded people I have ever met and I can't wait for you to learn from him! This conversation is (2 of 3) with Nate Ernsberger.
|||||||
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, Jessie and I sat down with Nate Ernsberger. Nate has lived an incredibly unique life as a father and has seen some horrific suffering up close. Those experiences have softened his heart towards humanity and have shaped in him a dynamic leadership style. He is one of the most grounded people I have ever met and I can't wait for you to learn from him! This conversation is (1 of 3) with Nate Ernsberger.
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, I sat down with my friend Todd Wermers. He was abandoned in an airport at a young age and vowed to never feel alone again. He has so much wisdom about trauma, addiction, and healing. His story and expertise have helped countless people learn to live more connected to their hearts. He has logged thousands of hours doing individual, marital, and experiential therapy at the Center for Professional Excellence. Todd was recently named the President and Director of Coaching for an organization called, Tin Man. His passion is to help people discover how God uniquely created them so they have nothing holding them back. Todd has been married to Jennifer for 10 years and they have 2 beautiful children, Tennysen and Cedar.
Tin Man’s Mission is to wash the feet of those who are washing the feet of others.
If you’re considering therapy or just want to learn more click here: Tin Man
Here are some of the themes that really impacted me from our conversation:
A sentence that really stuck out to me:
“Feel your feelings, tell the truth about what you’re feeling, and be willing to give it to God and other people.” - Todd Wermers
|||||||
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.
On this episode, I (Pedro) chatted with a man who wanted to be a pastor, but instead became a depressed bank teller, and is now a brilliant Psychotherapist. This conversation with Matthias J. Barker is insightful, inspiring, and deeply relevant for all of us. He's become a leading voice in the mental health space while guiding countless individuals toward freedom and health. Below is a little more on Matthias so you can get to know him.
He holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has been formally trained for treating complex trauma, anxiety, and marital issues. You have probably seen his content on social media because so many people are discovering healing in his words and tools. Here are a couple of themes that really impacted me from our conversation:
Matthias treats a large variety of mental disorders and difficult life circumstances in his clinical practice. He is the author of two e-books, On Grief and On Avoiding Burnout. In addition, he has released over 8 public workshops focusing on Trauma, Anxiety, Boundaries with Parents, and Couples Conflict. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife and two children. You can find him on all social media platforms, @matthiasjbarker, and you can learn more about his available workshops through his website, www.matthiasjbarker.com
|||||||
We also are excited to highlight 'This Belongs To' on this episode!
They created a really rad buy-one-give-one model.
That’s right! For every bag you purchase, they’re making sure a bag ends up in the hands of a child in foster care.
Each bag has a blank space on it, which means that each child can write their own name on the bag! How rad is that?!!!
At checkout use the promo code BRAVE to receive an additional 20% off your entire purchase!
Go to www.thisbelongsto.shop
|||||||
Sonic Stories is a one-stop music production company led by CEO Adam Agin. (Adam & his team curate my podcast)
Adam's music has been featured on over 70 networks with some of the world's biggest brands. He and his team can handle anything your throw at them!
So here's some cool news, tell him Brave Wrk sent you and get 20% off on your first project with Sonic Stories.
Start your next project by going to sonicstories.co
On this episode, I sat down with George Moss who is an accomplished artist, father, and business owner. George is currently on tour with Toby Mac and The DiverseCity Band. He is having to face some legitimate fears in this season like many of us. He gifted us some incredible perspectives on discomfort, destiny, and even discipleship. He said something that really hit me, "When you get that call, you say yes and you figure it out." I believe we are all being called upon to live beyond the boundaries of our comfort and talent. George has been living the brave life for as long as I have known him and his wisdom will equip you with real courage. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did!
We partnered with our friend, Adam Agin at Sonic Stories to bring you this podcast today!
If you're a YouTuber, Influencer, or Company looking for custom compositions for your content then his team has a really cool opportunity for you!
Tell them Brave Wrk sent you and it will save you some $$$.
We can't wait to hear your feedback on this podcast!
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, & SHARE
Want to take some next steps in facing your fears!
For more free tools: CLICK HERE
On this episode, we did something really different! We took to social media and asked you guys for a topic for this weeks episode. It was clear that y'all wanted to talk about longevity in marriage. Jessie and I have been together more than half of our lives and we're still figuring it all out. With that in mind, we sat down and chatted on relationships, love, and some simple ideas that can make a big difference. We talked about how our childhoods have affected all of our relationships and how being intentional with our words can be unbelievably anchoring. We asked, 'Is it possible for our relationships to grow exponentially with post it notes, toothpaste, and heartfelt kindness?' We think so! We also talked about remaining a student in our relationships and discovering how our partners long to be loved. This has been a game changer for me [Pedro] more recently! We give you a simple question that can drastically enhance your connection with friends, family, and your lover. This episode is truly a mix of our love story, a couple of tears sprinkled in, and a whole lot of practical tools for all of us! Enjoy friends, we do this for you.
We partnered with our friend, Adam Agin at Sonic Stories to bring you this podcast today!
If you're a YouTuber, Influencer, or Company looking for custom compositions for your content then his team has a really cool opportunity for you! Tell them Brave Wrk sent you and it will save you some $$$.
We can't wait to hear your feedback on this podcast!
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, & SHARE
Want to take some next steps in your journey towards healthier relationships?
For more free tools: CLICK HERE
