Still Evolving

Dr. Amy Athey

Hosted by Dr. Amy Athey, Still Evolving explores the truth behind lasting high performance and resilience. Rather than relying on perfection or superhuman ability, the podcast highlights how real strength emerges through simple, intentional habits, grounded in self-compassion, adaptability, and the ability to grow through life’s inevitable setbacks. Each episode features stories and insights from leaders in sport, the military, and business. Through their journeys, listeners see the shared humanity behind exceptional achievement and the foundational practices that help them keep “Still Evolving” both at the height of success and in moments of challenge.

  1. 14 JAN

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Don Pellum

    Summary In this engaging conversation, Dr. Amy and Coach Don Pellum explore the transformative journey of coaching and leadership. Don shares his experiences from his early days in Southern California to becoming a renowned coach at the University of Oregon. The discussion delves into the importance of communication, self-leadership, and the power of connection in overcoming challenges. Don emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and maintaining a focus on personal growth and accountability. He also shares practical strategies for recovery and intentional presence in a distracted world. Today’s Guest With nearly 40 years of experience as a coach, leader, and mentor, Coach Don Pellum has dedicated his career to developing people and building teams grounded in purpose, grit, and unity. His journey at the University of Oregon played a pivotal role in transforming Oregon Football into a nationally recognized program, contributing to multiple Pac-12 Championships and National Championship appearances. Along the way, he earned national recognition for his leadership and impact on the game. Rooted in a belief that leadership is about service, his work extends far beyond football. In 2017, he transitioned into inspirational speaking and business consulting, bringing the lessons of elite team building, communication, and culture into organizations across industries. Through Coach Pellum Solutions and Consulting, he now helps individuals and teams turn communication into a competitive advantage and grow into the leaders they aspire to be—on and off the field. Tune In 00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Performance 00:23 Don Pelham: A Leader in Sports and Beyond 00:58 Transforming Lessons from Sports to Life 01:12 Journey of a Coach: From Player to Mentor 03:44 The Power of Communication in Leadership 06:17 Overcoming Adversity: The Inner Coach 08:50 Building a Supportive Circle 11:28 Accountability and Growth in Leadership 13:49 Maintaining Balance: Lifestyle and Recovery 16:12 Practical Tools for Connection and Presence

    18 min

  2. 13 JAN

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Sandella Gansheimer

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Amy and Sandella Gansheimer explore the themes of leadership, personal growth, and the importance of community and mentorship. Sandella shares her journey through various challenges in her career, emphasizing the significance of accountability, storytelling, and finding joy in nature. The discussion highlights actionable strategies for personal development and the power of connection in both professional and personal life. Today’s guest Sandella Gansheimer is a results-driven sales and go-to-market leader and currently serves as Chief Revenue Officer at Ruffwear, where she leads global sales and customer experience strategies that inspire outdoor adventure. She brings more than 15 years of experience across the pet and outdoor industries, with leadership roles at Mars, Tractor Supply Company, and PetSafe Brands. Known as a builder and mentor, Sandella leads with empowerment and kindness while developing high-performing teams and strong partnerships that drive sustainable growth. She is deeply committed to elevating the next generation of women leaders and holds a Master of Science in Agricultural Communications from California Polytechnic State University. Tune In!00:00 Journey of Transformation: From Marketing to Leadership 03:25 Embracing Accountability and Overcoming Challenges 05:58 The Power of Mentorship and Team Dynamics 08:17 The Importance of Connection and Human Energy 10:36 Finding Balance: Self-Care and Recovery Strategies 13:08 Storytelling as a Tool for Connection and Growth

    21 min

  3. 8 JAN

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Susan Goebel

    Summary In this episode of Still Evolving, Dr. Amy interviews Susan Goebel, CEO and founder of Scaling Management Consulting Group. They discuss Susan's journey from a scientist in the pharmaceutical industry to an entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of adaptability, reflection, and effective leadership in navigating challenges. The conversation emphasizes the role of coaches and mentors in personal growth and the significance of self-awareness in seeking support. Susan shares actionable takeaways for high performance, including the practice of 'thinking time' to enhance decision-making and problem-solving. Today’s Guest ​Susan Goebel is the CEO and founder of Scaling Management Consulting Group, Inc., the strategic advisory firm behind dozens of brag-worthy business transformations across Canada and the U.S. With decades of operational leadership under her belt, Susan helps 7- and 8-figure business leaders regain control, boost profitability, and align their teams for scalable, sustainable growth. Her clients report doubling revenue, freeing up 10–15 hours a week, and seeing valuation jumps of up to 27%. Tune In! 00:00 Susan's Journey: From Scientist to Entrepreneur 03:15 Navigating Challenges: Adaptability and Agility 05:27 The Importance of Reflection in Leadership 09:44 Building Effective Teams: Communication and Crisis Management 14:34 The Role of Coaches and Mentors in Personal Growth 19:34 Daily Practices for Sustaining High Performance

    21 min

  4. 7 JAN

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Joshua Reiter

    Summary In this episode of Still Evolving, Dr. Amy and Joshua Reiter discuss the importance of resilience and performance through intentional habits, self-compassion, and the power of connection. Joshua shares his journey, reflecting on challenges faced and the significance of active listening in personal and professional relationships. They explore strategies for personal growth, setting visions for the future, and the necessity of recovery strategies to sustain performance in a fast-paced world. Today’s Guest Today’s guest is Joshua Reiter, a senior executive with nearly two decades of experience helping companies scale, navigate transformation, and drive sustainable growth. He currently serves as Senior Vice President at Embark, where he works with high-growth organizations facing M&A, rapid expansion, and complex financial decisions. Joshua brings a rare blend of financial expertise and people-centered leadership, with a background spanning finance, sales, and operations. He’s known for creating clarity in high-stakes environments and aligning people and process to build long-term value. Tune In! 00:00 Journey and Background 02:33 Facing Challenges and Self-Reflection 05:35 The Importance of Self-Image 09:20 The Power of Connection 12:51 Vision for the Future 15:53 Recovery Strategies for Sustained Growth

    20 min

  5. 6 JAN

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Jonathan Kearns

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Amy and Jonathan Kearns explore the themes of resilience, performance, and leadership in the face of adversity. Jonathan shares his journey through early career challenges, the impact of the dot-com bubble, and the importance of sustaining passion and performance over time. They discuss the shift from ego-driven leadership to a focus on legacy and the necessity of adaptability in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and actionable strategies for effective leadership, particularly through the use of the 'Traction' operating system. Today’s Guest Jonathan Kearns is a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across technology, product strategy, and operations. He currently serves as CEO of The Sanctuary Golf & Social Club, leading its growth and member experience, and as Vice President of Programs and Operations at the mortgage industry’s national standards organization, where he supports modernization and industry collaboration. Jonathan’s career includes senior leadership roles in the digital mortgage and eSignature space, as well as founding and successfully exiting multiple technology companies. He is known for blending technical expertise with thoughtful leadership to build high-performing teams and scale complex solutions. Tune In! 00:00 Navigating Early Challenges in Business 03:53 The Importance of Resilience and Adaptability 06:19 Finding Balance: Work, Life, and Leadership 08:52 Empowering Others: The Key to Sustainable Success 11:18 Embracing Change: Lessons from Disruption 13:41 Actionable Strategies for Business Leaders

    20 min

  6. 19/12/2025

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Aaron Virola

    Summary In this conversation, Aaron Virola shares his journey as a communication strategist and the profound impact of personal loss on his professional identity. He discusses the importance of resilience, empathy, and authenticity in leadership, especially after experiencing the loss of his wife. The dialogue explores the flawed concept of work-life balance, emphasizing the need to prioritize what truly matters in life. Aaron also shares grounding practices that help him stay present and reflect on his experiences, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and impactful life. Today’s GuestAaron Virola is a communications strategist who has built his career around helping people and brands tell clearer, more human stories. He specializes in guiding companies across AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise technology through the shifting worlds of earned media and generative search. His work centers on elevating leadership voices, building trust, and designing communications systems that create lasting visibility. Aaron’s personal journey shapes his professional clarity. After navigating profound loss and major life transitions, he has become a strong advocate for honest communication, resilience, and growth. He often writes and speaks about identity, reinvention, and the evolving relationship between humans and technology. Tune In!00:00 Journey of Transformation 06:35 Redefining Work-Life Balance 08:39 Embracing Non-Negotiables 14:57 The Power of Presence and Gratitude

    20 min

  7. 16/12/2025

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and Chuck Faughnan

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Amy and Chuck Faughnan explore the journey of leadership, resilience, and personal growth. Chuck shares his experiences as a CEO and the challenges he faced, particularly regarding his health. They discuss the importance of self-compassion, vulnerability, and creating space for thoughtful reactions in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation emphasizes that true strength comes from understanding oneself and being authentic in leadership roles. Today’s Guest Chuck Faughnan is an experienced CEO, investor, and technology executive with a background in electrical and systems engineering and a career focused on building and scaling high-growth organizations. He previously served as CEO of Bridge Consulting, where he led the cyber and network engineering firm from startup to more than $42 million in revenue before a successful exit to a strategic buyer. Today, Chuck is the CEO of Personam.ai, a cybersecurity software company delivering AI-driven, autonomous network threat detection designed to simplify security and improve protection at scale. He also advises and serves on boards for small and mid-sized technology companies, helping leaders build accountable, values-driven, and high-performance teams. In addition, Chuck serves as Chairman of the Board for the Cybersecurity Association Foundation, supporting cybersecurity education, business growth, and long-term cyber resilience. Tune In! 00:00 Chuck's Journey: From Engineer to Entrepreneur 05:34 Facing Adversity: Health Challenges and Leadership 09:37 The Power of Self-Compassion and Authenticity 13:53 Navigating Challenges: Finding Strength in Vulnerability 16:49 Meditation and Mindfulness: Tools for Resilience

    18 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    Still Evolving with Dr. Amy and John DeRaeve

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Amy and John DeRaeve explore the themes of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of empathy in sales and marketing. John shares his journey from a traditional upbringing to a successful career in B2B tech sales, emphasizing the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how he adapted to new methods of connection. They discuss the significance of physical activity in maintaining mental clarity and the power of setting intentional goals to achieve personal and professional success. Today’s Guest John DeRaeve grew up on a farm in Oregon’s Willamette Valley as the only brother among five sisters. A University of Oregon Journalism graduate, he began his career in media and advertising sales before moving into B2B tech marketing in 2000. Over his 25-year career, he’s worked with major global technology brands like Intel, NVIDIA, and Palo Alto Networks, representing companies such as Yahoo, Spiceworks, and now Anteriad. Recently relocated from Oregon to Florida with his wife, John enjoys exploring new destinations, visiting Disney parks, and building lasting client relationships grounded in empathy and trust. Tune In! 00:00 Introduction to Lasting Performance and Resilience 00:30 A Journey Through B2B Tech Sales 03:01 The Role of Empathy in Sales 05:19 Navigating Challenges Through Connections 07:35 Finding Strength in Adversity 09:58 The Power of Physical Activity 13:49 Daily Planning for Success

    17 min
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About

Hosted by Dr. Amy Athey, Still Evolving explores the truth behind lasting high performance and resilience. Rather than relying on perfection or superhuman ability, the podcast highlights how real strength emerges through simple, intentional habits, grounded in self-compassion, adaptability, and the ability to grow through life’s inevitable setbacks. Each episode features stories and insights from leaders in sport, the military, and business. Through their journeys, listeners see the shared humanity behind exceptional achievement and the foundational practices that help them keep “Still Evolving” both at the height of success and in moments of challenge.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Amy Athey
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Dr. Amy Athey