Episodes

  • From Military Skies to University President and Embracing Change in Your Career with Dr. Janine Davidson

    From Military Skies to University President and Embracing Change in Your Career with Dr. Janine Davidson
    Nov 20 2025
    Christy Belz speaks with Dr. Janine Davidson, President of Metropolitan State University of Denver, as they explore the power of second chances and pivotal life decisions. Davidson shares transformative experiences, from overcoming challenges in Air Force pilot training to navigating personal and professional shifts, including her transition from Undersecretary of the Navy to leading MSU Denver. The conversation highlights MSU's commitment to diversity, affordability, and innovative programs like the Classroom to Career Hub. Discover Davidson's inspiring journey and the impactful role of MSU Denver in providing opportunities for socioeconomic mobility.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Key Takeaways:Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Dr. Davidson shares her personal story of overcoming obstacles, such as flunking out of pilot training and rebuilding her career in Washington, D.C.Career Transitions: The episode highlights Dr. Davidson's transition from a military and government career to academia, showcasing the power of embracing change.Educational Leadership: Learn about Dr. Davidson's role in driving innovation and equity at MSU Denver, including initiatives supporting DACA students and diverse communities.MSU Denver's Unique Offerings: Discover how the university's Classroom to Career Hub and Health Institute are designed to enhance students' career readiness and provide interdisciplinary education.Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Dr. Davidson emphasizes the importance of diversity in higher education and MSU Denver's efforts to foster a sense of belonging for all students.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/ This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    44 mins
  • The Power of Authentic Leadership and Balancing High-Pressure Careers with Christine Marquez Hudson

    The Power of Authentic Leadership and Balancing High-Pressure Careers with Christine Marquez Hudson
    Nov 13 2025
    In this episode of "Second Chances with Christy Belz," Christy sits down with Christine Marquez Hudson, Vice President of University Advancement at MSU Denver. Christine shares her journey through various leadership roles, including her transformative experience at Mi Casa Resource Center. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced at the Denver Foundation and the lessons learned about authenticity and self-worth. Discover how Christine achieved a harmonious work-life balance and why MSU Denver stands as a beacon of excellence and access in education.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Key Takeaways:Authenticity in Leadership: Christine emphasizes the importance of remaining true to oneself, regardless of external expectations, spotlighting that authentic leadership is integral to personal and professional growth.Embracing Change and Resilience: Navigating significant institutional changes requires patience, strategic thinking, and resilience—particularly when it involves overcoming imposter syndrome.Impactful Mentoring and Support: The influence of supportive relationships, as seen in Christine's marriage, underscores the power of having partners who believe in and empower you to rediscover and achieve your potential.Work-Life Balance: Effective leadership involves organizing life around family commitments and ensuring quality time, emphasizing the importance of balance.Strategic Career Moves: Christine offers insight into making strategic career decisions, advising listeners to seek organizations and roles that align with their values and long-term goals.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/ This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    44 mins
  • Reimagining Women in Business, Empowering Your Evolution, and Pivoting with Purpose with Jen Lester

    Reimagining Women in Business, Empowering Your Evolution, and Pivoting with Purpose with Jen Lester
    Oct 30 2025
    Join Christy Belz as she explores themes of entrepreneurial evolution with Jen Lester, co-founder and CEO of Philosophy Communications. Jen shares her incredible journey of launching a prominent PR and marketing agency over 25 years ago. Jen reveals the driving force behind her career shift and the courage it took to embrace uncertainty plus she shares insights on how to create a workplace that reflects women's desires for flexibility and meaningful work. Jen and Christy also discuss strategies for handling emotional challenges in business settings, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, presence, and maintaining integrity. Jen provides listeners with actionable advice on fostering authentic partnerships, finding opportunities in adversity, and leading with love. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Key Takeaways:Empowering Women in Business: Jen advocates for business models that reflect the needs and desires of women, emphasizing flexibility and family support.The Art of Do-Overs: Jen shares the concept of asking for a do-over to correct situations that didn't go as planned, whether in family life or business settings.Leadership and Emotional Awareness: Understanding emotional triggers and practicing awareness can lead to better leadership and more constructive business relationships.Innovative Partnership Agreements: Jen's approach to partnership agreements helps sustain business operations smoothly during transitions, avoiding disruption and ensuring fairness.Service as Happiness: Finding joy and fulfillment through helping others is a recurring theme in Jen's life and career philosophy.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/ This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    42 mins
  • From the White House to the Mile High: A Journey of Service and Second Chances Featuring Christine Benero

    From the White House to the Mile High: A Journey of Service and Second Chances Featuring Christine Benero
    Oct 16 2025
    Christy Belz speaks with Christine Benero, the President and CEO of Mile High United Way, a historic organization dedicated to improving education, health, and financial stability in Colorado communities. Christine is noted for being the first woman to ever hold this significant role in the organization’s 135-year history. Her career is marked by her commitment to service and equity, with previous leadership positions including CEO of the American Red Cross (Mile High Chapter), and working at the White House during the Clinton Administration. She reflects on pivotal moments in her career, including a life-changing experience during September 11th and her unexpected battle with breast cancer. Christine's leadership extends beyond her formal roles, as she is an active board member, advisor, and mentor, lifting up the next generation of change-makers. This episode highlights the intricacies of maintaining visibility and authenticity in high-stakes environments and the power of community support.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Learn more about Christine Benero and The Mile High United WayWebsite: https://unitedwaydenver.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedamesco/Key Takeaways:Legacy of Strong Women: Christine attributes her inspiration for leadership and service to the trailblazing influence of her grandmothers and mother, who challenged societal norms to pursue careers and independence.Navigating Health Challenges: A poignant recount of Christine's breast cancer diagnosis underscores the importance of accessible healthcare and support systems, while showcasing her resilience and ability to pivot in both life and career.Leadership in Transition: Christine discusses her role at Mile High United Way and the responsibility of adhering to organizational legacy while preparing for transition, emphasizing the need for thoughtful succession planning.Resilience and Authenticity: She explores the challenges and rewards of maintaining leadership presence, and how authentic self-reflection and community support can guide through personal and professional trials.Influence of Mentorship and Community Support: Christine underscores the importance of mentors, community networks, and teamwork in her journey, which allowed her to thrive despite obstacles.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    40 mins
  • How Two Women's Second Chance Transformed into Emmy-Winning Synergy with Laura Smedley and Rachel Farha

    How Two Women's Second Chance Transformed into Emmy-Winning Synergy with Laura Smedley and Rachel Farha
    Oct 1 2025
    Today Christy Belz speaks with Laura Smedley and Rachel Farha, co-founders of Better Together Productions, about their inspiring journeys of leaving successful careers, facing challenges like imposter syndrome, and building a thriving production company. They discuss their Emmy-winning documentary, "Rebecoming Me," which sheds light on the foster care system. Through authentic communication and trust, they navigate the complexities of partnership, scaling their business, and creating impactful storytelling. Through a heartfelt discussion, learn about the power of trust, creativity, and authenticity in forging meaningful partnerships.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Key Takeaways:Embracing Change: Both Laura and Rachel highlight the importance of being open to change and letting go of past roles to find more fulfilling opportunities.Power of Partnerships: Their success is deeply rooted in their partnership, showcasing how combining complementary skills leads to a whole brain approach in business.Authentic Storytelling: "Rebecoming Me" exemplifies how authentic storytelling can highlight critical community issues, resonating powerfully and leading to recognition like Emmy awards.Trust and Communication: Establishing a strong foundation of trust and clear communication is essential for successful partnerships and creative collaboration.Vision for Growth: Better Together Productions is poised for scalable growth, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and building a diverse, strong team.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/ This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    54 mins
  • Embracing Self-Love and Revolutionizing Women's Networking with Meghann Conter

    Embracing Self-Love and Revolutionizing Women's Networking with Meghann Conter
    Sep 18 2025
    Join Christy Belz as she talks with Meghann Conter, founder and CEO of The Dames, a supportive network for high-achieving women entrepreneurs. Meghann shares her journey from burnout in corporate America to starting her own business, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and self-love. Meghan opens up about overcoming challenges like alcohol dependence and divorce, highlighting the role of intuition and personal growth in achieving success. Christy and Meghann explore themes of spiritual awakening and the transformative power of second chances in personal and professional realms.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Learn more about Meghann Conter and The Dames:Website: https://www.thedames.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedamesco/Key Takeaways:Embrace Self-Love and Spiritual Growth: Meghan's journey to spirituality marked a pivotal second chance and highlighted the importance of loving oneself first to facilitate broader connection and purpose.Redefining Success and Professional Networks: The Dames exemplifies how women can support one another, redefine success, and scale businesses through authentic relationships and mutual empowerment.Navigating Personal Challenges for Greater Balance: Quitting alcohol and reassessing personal relationships were key for Meghan in achieving true inner alignment and purpose-driven living.Infusing Fun and Humor into Business Networking: Laughter and improv are woven into The Dames experience to break barriers, enhance communication, and create joyous networking spaces.Value-Driven Leadership Over Traditional Hustle: Meghan advocates for moving beyond societal pressure for perfectionism, instead promoting value-based decision-making in growing businesses sustainably and joyfully.Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/Join Christy Belz for a 8-week UPROOT course, designed to help you powerfully partake in your life, finding greater purpose and fulfillment in relationships, work and leadership.Course: https://christybelz.com/uproot/ This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast AgencySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    41 mins
  • Healthy Hearts, New Beginnings and Unveiling AFib with Maureen McDonald

    Healthy Hearts, New Beginnings and Unveiling AFib with Maureen McDonald
    Sep 4 2025
    Join host Christy Belz as she welcomes Maureen McDonald, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in non-profit organizations, primarily focusing on education, healthcare, and the arts. Maureen emphasizes the importance of community health and her role with HCA Healthcare’s initiative with the American Heart Association. She shares valuable healthcare insights with a focus on reducing the risk of stroke and "AFib" through education and community programs particularly in minority communities. Both Christy and Maureen share personal stories of battling AFib, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention. Also, they explore themes of self-care, personal epiphanies in their 50s, and the strength found in letting go and embracing new beginnings.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Key TakeawaysMaureen McDonald's extensive experience in nonprofit organizations has significantly contributed to her role in Corporate Social Responsibility at HCA Healthcare, where she is spearheading heart health initiatives.Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and stroke prevention are pivotal topics in this episode, with discussions around early detection and lifestyle changes that can mitigate risks.Christy Belz shares her personal journey with AFib, illustrating the real-life impact and management of this heart condition.Reflections on significant life moments, including shifting family dynamics and personal epiphanies experienced during milestone birthdays.Letting go and grabbing hold—embracing both the past and future—are central themes, underscoring the power of self-realization and personal growth.Resources:HCA Healthcare WebsiteAmerican Heart Association WebsiteConnect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    37 mins
  • Unlocking Your Inner Wealth and Embracing Vulnerability for Powerful Change with Helene Lerner

    Unlocking Your Inner Wealth and Embracing Vulnerability for Powerful Change with Helene Lerner
    Aug 20 2025
    On this episode of Second Chances with Christy Belz talks with Helene Lerner, an Emmy award-winning executive producer, bestselling author, TV host and a trailblazer in women's empowerment. Helene shares moments in her career journey, emphasizing mindset shifts and the importance of authenticity. Her latest work, "Smart Women Live Richly no Matter what's in Their Wallet," offers strategies for cultivating a mindset geared toward prosperity and is set to release this October. This conversation covers various themes, including the power of vulnerability, the significance of discipline, and the necessity for women to embrace both giving and receiving. Helene emphasizes the importance of authenticity, noting how vulnerability can connect to people's hearts and facilitate true change.Key Takeaways:Vulnerability Connects: Helene Lerner asserts that true change happens when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, connecting with others at an emotional level.Mindset of Prosperity: The crux of Helene's new book revolves around developing a prosperity mindset that stretches beyond monetary wealth.Discipline as a Friend: Practicing daily routines and sticking to them is vital for personal growth, as highlighted by Helene’s disciplined morning practices.Giving and Receiving: The conversation addresses the need for women to balance their natural inclination to give with the to graciously receive.Call to Action: Helene urges listeners to leverage their unique strengths to make a difference in the world, emphasizing unity and collaboration.Pre-Order Helene's new book, Smart Women Live Richly no Matter what's in Their Wallet, on Amazon (Available In October) Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts!Connect with Christy Belz:Website: https://christybelz.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybelz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christybelzcoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyBelzCoach/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    39 mins