The Influence Exchange

J.V.

The Influence Exchange, hosted by J.V., is a personal growth podcast built around honest conversations, real-life experiences, and practical lessons that help you think differently, grow intentionally, and create meaningful change in your life.

Through solo episodes and conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, leaders, coaches, and everyday people with powerful stories, we explore mindset, leadership, wealth, relationships, career, resilience, confidence, success, adversity, and purpose.

Real conversations. Real experiences. Real growth.

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20 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes20

Newest first

Bonus Episode: Why Mindset Matters More Than Strategy in Business | Carly Pepin
What if the biggest thing holding your business back isn't your strategy, what if it's your mindset? In episode 45 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with international speaker, consultant, leadership coach, and co-founder of West Coast Growth Advisors, Carly Pepin. For more than 15 years, Carly has helped business owners, executives, and leadership teams improve culture, strengthen leadership, increase profitability, and create sustainable growth. Together, they discuss: The 5 Pillars of Business Growth Why culture determines the quality of your team How leaders attract and retain top talent The role mindset plays in business success Common mistakes CEOs make when scaling Burnout and how to overcome it Cash flow strategies that most business owners overlook Why people get stuck professionally and personally Leadership, communication, and employee engagement The power of understanding values and behavior One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation: Your business can only grow as much as you do." Whether you're a CEO, manager, entrepreneur, business owner, or someone looking to become a stronger leader, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world examples you can apply immediately. Carly's Values and Business Assessments: https://www.westcoastgrowthadvisors.com/tools Carly's LinkedIn to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlypepin/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Friday · 42 min
Your Biggest Career Obstacle Isn’t Your Skills, It’s Self-Doubt | Courtney Intersimone
What if the biggest thing holding you back in your career isn't a lack of talent, experience, or opportunity? What if it's self-doubt? In episode 44 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with executive coach and former corporate leader Courtney Intersimone to discuss leadership, confidence, career growth, imposter syndrome, executive presence, and what it really takes to reach the next level professionally. After spending 26 years working alongside senior executive leadership teams and high-potential talent in highly competitive corporate environments, Courtney has seen firsthand why some people continue to grow while others remain stuck. In this conversation, we discuss: Why talented people still struggle with self-doubt The truth about imposter syndrome How leaders are evaluated for executive roles The difference between managing yourself and leading others Why relationships and networking matter more than most people realize How to navigate career transitions and setbacks The importance of asking questions and seeking clarity What separates high performers from future executives Why your future is more within your control than you think One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation: "Your life is what you make it." If you've ever felt stuck in your career, questioned your abilities, struggled with confidence, or wondered how to reach the next level, this episode is for you. Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Wednesday · 42 min
Bonus Episode: The Question That Could Change Your Life Forever | Chris Woods
What if one question could completely change the direction of your life? In this episode 43 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with executive coach, leadership consultant, speaker, author, and former Google executive Chris Woods for a conversation about leadership, fear, authenticity, mindset, gratitude, and discovering who you're truly meant to become. While building a successful career at Google and attending Harvard University, Chris experienced a life-threatening medical emergency caused by cardiac Lyme disease. After flatlining in the hospital and receiving a pacemaker, everything changed. Instead of asking, "Why did this happen to me?" He began asking a much more important question: "Who would I be in the absence of my concerns?" That single question became the foundation of his mission to help leaders overcome fear, discover their strengths, and live more authentically. In this episode, we discuss: The life-changing event that reshaped Chris's purpose Why fear silently controls so many decisions How to identify your authentic strengths Leadership optimization and building stronger teams The dangers of micromanagement and poor workplace culture Why gratitude can transform your mindset Balancing leadership, family, and personal fulfillment How to recognize when your life is out of alignment Practical strategies to overcome self-doubt and fear Why evolution, not revolution is often the key to lasting change Chris Website: https://chriswoodscoach.com/ Chris Book: https://a.co/d/0cuwK8DG Chris Contact: https://chriswoodscoach.com/contact Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 24 · 45 min
The Side Hustle Mindset: Opportunities Are Everywhere | Bart Merrell
What if the opportunity to change your life is already sitting right in front of you? In episode 42 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, author, and side hustle expert Bart Merrell to talk about entrepreneurship, financial freedom, mindset, AI, side hustles, and learning how to turn everyday experiences into streams of income. From becoming a dog trainer by accident to international business deals in Japan to turning one of life’s hardest moments, losing part of his leg in 2024 into purpose and impact. Bart’s story proves that opportunities are everywhere if you learn how to look for them. In this episode, Bart shares: What a real side hustle actually is How to identify opportunities in everyday life Why most people overlook income opportunities How to start a side hustle with little money The power of mindset and taking action AI opportunities and modern business ideas Why mentorship matters How fear stops people from moving forward The importance of learning through failure How to monetize skills, experiences, and challenges This conversation is motivating, practical, honest, and filled with real-life lessons for anyone who wants to create additional income, build freedom, or think differently about opportunity. Don’t ask if you can monetize it, ask HOW. Bart's website: https://thesidehustlesamurai.com/ Bart's free assessment: https://ai.bartmerrell.com/blindspot Buy Bart's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/08Xz9x1u Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 22 · 51 min
Why Most People Never Reach Their Full Potential | Alan Lazaros
What if the life you’re building on the outside doesn’t match who you are on the inside? In episode 41 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with entrepreneur, coach, and Alan Lazaros to talk about mindset, fear, self-belief, personal growth, leadership, relationships, and what it truly takes to reach your full potential. After surviving a life-changing car accident at 26 years old, Alan was forced to reevaluate everything he believed about success, fulfillment, and purpose. Although he had financial success, a strong career, and external achievements, he realized he had never truly worked on himself internally. Today, Alan is the CEO and founder of Next Level University, a global self-improvement platform helping entrepreneurs, leaders, and individuals break through fear, limiting beliefs, and self-doubt. In this conversation, Alan shares: Why most people stay stuck The difference between external success and inner fulfillment How fear silently controls people Self-belief vs self-worth The importance of personal development Leadership, mindset & emotional growth Why environment and peer groups matter The truth about discipline and long-term success How to identify what’s holding you back Why personal growth requires discomfort This episode is honest, deep, practical, and filled with real conversations about life, trauma, growth, and becoming the best version of yourself. If you’ve ever: Felt stuck, struggled with confidence, wanted to grow personally, questioned your purpose, felt disconnected from yourself, wanted more out of life, then this episode is for you. Alan website: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 15 · 38 min
Fired at 63 and Nearly Broke, How David Nassief Became a Millionaire by 69
What if losing your job later in life became the best thing that ever happened to you? In this powerful episode 40 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with financial educator and author David Nassief to discuss wealth, retirement, investing, financial mistakes, mindset, and why it’s never too late to change your financial future. After being fired at 63 years old, David realized he and his wife were dangerously close to running out of money in retirement. Instead of giving up, he rebuilt his life from the ground up, studied personal finance obsessively, and created a simple system that helped him go from nearly broke to becoming a millionaire by age 69. This episode dives deep into: Building wealth later in life Why most people struggle financially The difference between making money and building wealth 401(k)s, Roth IRAs & index funds Avoiding common investing mistakes Financial discipline & consistency Why simplicity beats complexity The truth about fees and Wall Street How mindset affects financial success Why it’s never too late to start investing David also shares lessons from his One Page Wealth Compass and explains how small financial decisions made consistently over time can completely change your future. If you’ve ever: Felt behind financially, wondered where to start investing, struggled with debt, worried about retirement, wanted financial freedom, needed motivation to start over, then this conversation is for you. David's information: Free PDF: https://onepagewealthcompass.com/free Buy David's Book: https://a.co/d/099d595C Social Media TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidn536 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onepagewealthcompass/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@onepagewealthcompass Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/111549991 Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 8 · 42 min
Bonus Episode: From Coma to Comeback: How Dan MacQueen Rebuilt His Life After Brain Surgery
What would you do if your entire life changed in just 24 hours? In this powerful episode 39 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with motivational speaker and brain injury survivor Dan MacQueen to discuss resilience, mindset, identity, recovery, and the mental strength required to rebuild your life after trauma. Dan shares the incredible story of collapsing in London after suffering dangerous pressure on his brain, waking up weeks later from a coma, and having to relearn how to walk, talk, and smile again after emergency brain surgery and a traumatic brain injury. But this conversation goes far beyond survival. It’s about: How mindset changes everything Learning to adapt when life completely changes direction Taking responsibility during setbacks Rebuilding confidence and identity Becoming the hero in your own story Why perspective matters during difficult moments How to keep moving forward even when life feels impossible Dan’s message is simple, honest, and powerful: “It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you respond to it that matters.” This episode is emotional, motivational, and filled with real-life lessons that anyone facing adversity, fear, uncertainty, or setbacks can relate to. If you’ve ever: Felt stuck, faced trauma, questioned yourself, needed motivation, struggled to keep going, wondered how to rebuild after life changes, then this conversation is for you. Dan's website: https://www.macqueendan.com/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 3 · 32 min
The Hidden Reason You Feel Stuck in Life and Business | Joanna Zhang
What if the reason you feel stuck has nothing to do with strategy, and everything to do with alignment? In this powerful episode 38 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with award-winning entrepreneur Joanna Zhang to talk about success, burnout, entrepreneurship, spiritual awakening, leadership, and reconnecting with yourself. Joanna shares her journey from building successful businesses while secretly feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and unfulfilled to discovering that real growth starts internally. Together, they dive into: Why so many entrepreneurs feel stuck even when they’re succeeding The difference between hustle and alignment Physical, emotional, and spiritual blockages How self-neglect quietly impacts leadership and business growth Why strategy alone isn’t enough Emotional burnout, imposter syndrome, and external validation The importance of hiring aligned people How setbacks can create unexpected opportunities Energy vs. effort in business and life Why fulfillment matters more than appearances This episode is honest, reflective, and filled with practical perspective for anyone trying to grow without losing themselves in the process. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, exhausted, or like something is “missing” despite your success, this conversation is for you. Joanna Website: https://operationsgenius.net/ Contact Joanna: https://linktr.ee/joannazhang Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
July 1 · 40 min
How NLP Can Rewire Your Mind and Break the Patterns Holding You Back | Dr. Heidi Heron
What if the biggest thing holding you back, isn’t your circumstances, but the story you keep repeating in your mind? In episode 37 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with coach, therapist, author, and NLP expert Dr. Heidi Heron for a deep conversation about mindset, human behavior, imposter syndrome, fear, self-doubt, and personal growth. For more than 25 years, Dr. Heidi Heron has helped people understand how unconscious beliefs and mental patterns shape the way they think, feel, and live. Together, J.V. and Dr. Heidi break down why so many people feel stuck, and how awareness can completely change your life. In this episode, they discuss: What mindset really means Why people stay stuck even when they want change The hidden beliefs controlling your behavior Fear of judgment and imposter syndrome Why confidence and competence are different The power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) How your thoughts shape your emotions Why looking up can actually change your state emotionally Human behavior, awareness, and personal responsibility How to stop living on autopilot This episode is filled with practical insight, relatable moments, and powerful mindset shifts that can help you better understand yourself and the patterns holding you back. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, fear of change, feeling stuck, negative thinking, overthinking, confidence, then this conversation is for you. Dr. Heidi Heron Website: https://www.heidiheron.com/ Buy Dr. Heidi Heron Book: https://a.co/d/0cCg2oom Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 24 · 50 min
From Coma to Comeback: Shannon Michelle’s Story of Resilience
What if your life changed in a single moment and you had to learn how to become yourself all over again? In this powerful episode 36 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with author, speaker, and trauma survivor Shannon Michelle for one of the most emotional and inspiring conversations on the podcast so far. After a devastating motorcycle accident on Pacific Coast Highway, Shannon was left in a coma for months with severe brain trauma and life-changing injuries. Doctors weren’t sure if she would ever fully recover. During her healing journey, she had to relearn how to walk, remember, and rebuild her life step by step. But Shannon’s story doesn’t stop there. From surviving a traumatic brain injury to later battling breast cancer, Shannon shares how faith, resilience, self-kindness, and staying present helped her keep moving forward, even through the darkest moments. In this episode, we talk about: Surviving a near-fatal motorcycle accident Recovering from traumatic brain injury and memory loss Learning how to rebuild your identity after trauma The importance of staying present during difficult seasons Her “PATCHwork” method for healing and self-awareness Turning pain into purpose Her book Step Into Your Miracle Why kindness to yourself matters more than perfection This conversation is raw, emotional, honest, and deeply human. If you’ve ever struggled with trauma, loss, anxiety, healing, or trying to find yourself again after life changes unexpectedly, this episode will stay with you. Shannon's Website: https://stepintoyourmiracle.com/ Buy Shannon's Book: https://amzn.to/4l7pisZ Contact Shannon: https://stepintoyourmiracle.com/contact-me/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 17 · 46 min
A Black Belt Mindset, Why Success Comes Down to Never Quitting | Chris Natzke
What if success wasn’t about talent, but about refusing to quit? In episode 35 of The Influence Exchange, I sit down with Chris Natzke, 8th degree black belt, national Taekwondo champion, bestselling author, and life leadership coach who has spent over 50 years mastering discipline, mindset, and personal growth. His message is simple—but powerful: A black belt is just a white belt who never gave up.= In this episode, we break down: The real meaning of discipline vs. self-discipline Why most people fail and how to avoid it The 3 C’s to creating breakthroughs in your life How small daily habits lead to massive long-term results The power of pre-commitment and consistency How mindset, not talent determines success Chris shares a powerful truth: Success isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the small decisions you make every day. This episode is for you if: You’re trying to build discipline and consistency You feel stuck or lacking motivation You want to level up your mindset You’re ready to take control of your habits and your life Chris Website: https://www.chrisnatzke.com/ Link to buy Chris books: https://www.chrisnatzke.com/chris-s-store Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 10 · 51 min
Bonus Episode: Red Flag or Green Flag, Part 2, Real Life, Real Decisions
What if the small decisions you make every day are actually telling the truth about your life? In episode 34 of The Influence Exchange, we’re bringing back something interactive, Red Flag or Green Flag: Part 2. This isn’t about judging people. This isn’t about being perfect. This is about awareness. Because sometimes the things we normalize are the exact things holding us back. Here’s how it works: You’ll hear real-life scenarios across: Leadership, Money, Relationships, Mindset, Friends & Environment, Family & Real Life After each one, you pause and ask yourself: Is this a red flag or a green flag? Not what sounds right. Not what you think you “should” say. But what’s actually true for you. In this episode, we break down: Why leadership is about consistency not just showing up in problems How emotional spending quietly creates financial stress The truth about avoiding hard conversations Why waiting to feel ready keeps you stuck How your environment shapes your standards And why staying busy can be a form of avoidance Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 5 · 25 min
From Heartbreak to Healing, How Nikki Allen Turned Pain Into Purpose
What if your heartbreak wasn’t the end, but the beginning of who you’re meant to become? In episode 33 of The Influence Exchange, I sit down with Nikki Allen, author, singer, songwriter, filmmaker, and creator, who shares a powerful and deeply honest story about love, identity, and healing. Her novel Love You, Hated You is inspired by real-life heartbreak and explores a question many people silently struggle with: Why do we stay in relationships we know aren’t good for us? In this conversation, we break down: Why people stay in toxic or unhealthy relationships The emotional cycles that keep you stuck How isolation, validation, and past wounds influence decisions The truth about self-love and why it changes everything How to rebuild yourself after walking away Turning pain into creativity, purpose, and growth Nikki shares something powerful: Healing doesn’t start when you leave, it starts when you understand yourself. This episode is for you if: You’ve ever stayed longer than you should have You’ve questioned your worth in a relationship You’re trying to rebuild after heartbreak You want to understand yourself on a deeper level Nikki's Websites: https://officialnikkiallen.com/ https://strikeoutorganization.com/ https://www.theempresscompany.com/ Buy Nikki's Book: https://www.balboapress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/866765-loved-you-hated-you Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
June 3 · 41 min
From Ministry to the FBI, Eric Robinson on Faith, Pressure, and Purpose
What if your calling took you from helping people spiritually to protecting them physically? In episode 32 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with former FBI Special Agent Eric Robinson, who shares his powerful and unconventional journey, from 12 years in Christian ministry to 24 years serving in the FBI. Eric opens up about why he left ministry, the unexpected stress that led to that decision, and how stepping into federal law enforcement changed his perspective on life, pressure, and human behavior. This is not a highlight reel conversation. It’s real, raw, and insightful. You’ll hear: What it really takes to become an FBI agent Behind-the-scenes experiences from working gangs, terrorism, and crimes against children A powerful counter-terrorism case that could have ended very differently The truth about human behavior, both good and evil Why is resilience stronger than most people realize How to rebuild identity and purpose after major life transitions Eric also shares insights from his upcoming memoir: “Irreverent: From Saving Souls to Chasing Sinners in the FBI”, a story of transformation, purpose, and real-life experience on both sides of humanity. Eric's Book coming soon: Preacher to Breacher with Eric Robinson: https://preachertobreacher.com/ Eric's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_eric_robinson/ Eric's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-robinson-9220053a4/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 27 · 48 min
Bonus Episode: Wealth Isn’t Just Money, It’s How You Think, Live, and Decide
What if the way you think about money is the very thing holding you back from building real wealth? In episode 31 of The Influence Exchange, we break down a powerful truth that most people overlook, Wealth isn’t just about money, it’s about how you think, how you live, and the decisions you make every day. Because the reality is you can make more money and still feel broke. You can earn more and still feel stuck. Why? Because wealth isn’t built by income alone. It’s built through habits, mindset, and consistency. This isn’t a “get rich quick” conversation. This is about understanding the foundation, so you can start making better decisions that actually move your life forward. In This Episode, We Talk About: What wealth really means beyond money Why people stay stuck financially (without realizing it) The impact of short-term thinking and emotional spending How your environment and beliefs shape your financial reality The difference between comfort spending and growth investing How to train yourself for wealth through daily habits Simple, practical steps to build discipline and awareness Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 22 · 30 min
Rock Bottom to Purpose, How One Moment Can Change Everything | Steve Gamlin
What if one of the lowest moments in your life was actually the turning point? In episode 30 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with speaker, author, and coach Steve Gamlin for a powerful and honest conversation about setbacks, loss, purpose, and rebuilding your life from the ground up. Steve shares the raw story of hitting rock bottom, facing debt, self-doubt, and one of the lowest points of his life including a moment hitting golf balls alone in a thunderstorm that unexpectedly changed everything. From that moment forward, Steve began rebuilding step by step into the speaker, comedian, author, and leader he is today. This episode goes beyond motivation. It’s about real life: How to find purpose after failure Turning pain into progress The power of small decisions over time How to keep going after loss Why your lowest moments don’t define you, they redirect you You’ll also hear about Steve’s journey through love, loss, and honoring his late wife Tina through kindness, purpose, and impact. Connect with Steve: Website: https://www.stevegamlinspeaker.com Schedule a call with Steve: https://stevechats.com/have-a-chat-with-steve-page Steve’s Vision Board Mastery: https://www.motivationalfirewood.com/visionboardmastery Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 20 · 48 min
You’re Not Broken, You’re Carrying Unhealed Trauma | Malisa Hepner
What if the problem isn’t you, but the pain you’ve never had the space to process? In episode 29 of The Influence Exchange, I sit down with trauma therapist and podcast host Malisa Hepner for a powerful and deeply human conversation about trauma, overthinking, shame, and healing. Because the truth is, a lot of people walking around today don’t feel broken, they feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure why. And most of the time, it’s not because something is wrong with them. It’s because they’re carrying experiences they never fully processed. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why trauma isn’t just what happened, it’s what wasn’t processed How overthinking is often a response to deeper emotional pain The role of shame and how it quietly shapes your life Why talking and expressing emotions is more powerful than you think How disconnection from yourself shows up in everyday life What it actually looks like to begin healing Navigating grief, loss, and rebuilding after unimaginable experiences About Our Guest Malisa Hepner is a trauma therapist and podcast host who helps people reconnect with themselves, break free from harmful patterns, and find peace after life’s most difficult experiences. Her work is deeply personal, shaped by her own journey through trauma, loss, and healing. Malisa website: https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 13 · 46 min
You’re Not Stuck, You’re Afraid of Being Judged | Robin Clare
What if the real reason you’re not moving forward has nothing to do with your ability and everything to do with the fear of being judged? In episode 28 of The Influence Exchange, we dive into a conversation that hits deeper than most people are willing to admit, Fear of judgment. Not just from others, but the pressure, the expectations, and the self-doubt that quietly hold you back from showing up fully. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why fear of judgment is more powerful than failure How judgment shows up in your life (without you realizing it) The difference between real judgment and someone’s opinion Why waiting for approval keeps you stuck The internal vs external version of yourself (and why alignment matters) How self-leadership and awareness change everything Letting go of perfection and learning to show up anyway Buy Robin book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0iEw3RMr Robin's website: https://www.robinhclare.com/ Robin's Akashic Harmony Message: https://www.robinhclare.com/akashicharmonymessage Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 6 · 49 min
Bonus Episode: Spending to Feel Better and What It’s Really Costing You.
In episode 27 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. breaks down a pattern most people don’t talk about, emotional spending. This isn’t about budgeting apps, cutting up credit cards, or extreme saving. This is about understanding why we spend in the first place. Because the truth is most overspending isn’t about money. It’s about avoiding something deeper. In this episode, we explore: Why spending feels good in the moment, but doesn’t last The emotional cycle behind impulse purchases What you’re actually “buying” when you click add to cart How short-term comfort can create long-term stress Simple, realistic ways to pause without feeling restricted Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
May 1 · 22 min
From Loss to Reinvention: How You Rebuild When Life Breaks You | Chanoa Inez
What if the hardest moment in your life wasn’t the end, but the beginning of who you’re meant to become? In episode 26 of The Influence Exchange, I sit down with Chanoa Inez, who shares a powerful and deeply personal journey through loss, grief, and rebuilding her life from the inside out. After experiencing an unexpected and life-altering loss, Chanoa found herself navigating not just grief, but identity, purpose, and the relationship she had with herself. What followed wasn’t a quick fix. It was years of reflection, growth, and learning how to truly rebuild. This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice. We talk about what it actually takes to move forward when life doesn’t go as planned and how self-love isn’t just a concept, but a foundation for everything. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of your next step, this episode will speak to you. Chanoa’s website: https://www.chanoainez.com/ Buy Chanoa’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FCYF7DJ4 Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms. Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
April 29 · 34 min

The Influence Exchange

Bonus Episode: Why Mindset Matters More Than Strategy in Business | Carly Pepin

Your Biggest Career Obstacle Isn’t Your Skills, It’s Self-Doubt | Courtney Intersimone

Bonus Episode: The Question That Could Change Your Life Forever | Chris Woods

The Side Hustle Mindset: Opportunities Are Everywhere | Bart Merrell

Why Most People Never Reach Their Full Potential | Alan Lazaros

Fired at 63 and Nearly Broke, How David Nassief Became a Millionaire by 69

Bonus Episode: From Coma to Comeback: How Dan MacQueen Rebuilt His Life After Brain Surgery

The Hidden Reason You Feel Stuck in Life and Business | Joanna Zhang

How NLP Can Rewire Your Mind and Break the Patterns Holding You Back | Dr. Heidi Heron

From Coma to Comeback: Shannon Michelle’s Story of Resilience

A Black Belt Mindset, Why Success Comes Down to Never Quitting | Chris Natzke

Bonus Episode: Red Flag or Green Flag, Part 2, Real Life, Real Decisions

From Heartbreak to Healing, How Nikki Allen Turned Pain Into Purpose

From Ministry to the FBI, Eric Robinson on Faith, Pressure, and Purpose

Bonus Episode: Wealth Isn’t Just Money, It’s How You Think, Live, and Decide

Rock Bottom to Purpose, How One Moment Can Change Everything | Steve Gamlin

You’re Not Broken, You’re Carrying Unhealed Trauma | Malisa Hepner

You’re Not Stuck, You’re Afraid of Being Judged | Robin Clare

Bonus Episode: Spending to Feel Better and What It’s Really Costing You.

From Loss to Reinvention: How You Rebuild When Life Breaks You | Chanoa Inez