The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis

April Adams Pertuis
  • 5.0 (92)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Weekly

The INSIDE STORY takes you behind the curtain to bring you some of the biggest success stories of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and change makers.... the men & women who have walked through fire and come out on the other side brighter. How did they get there? What were some of their biggest hurdles? Be ready to hear it all. We’ll also be discussing the power of Story along the way, and how you can harness the power of your own journey to propel forward into new heights and fulfillment. Host April Pertuis will take you on a Storytelling journey through her own stories, too! As a career-long journalist and storyteller, April understands the story that is hiding inside of you. You’ll discover unique storytelling tips and mechanics that will empower you to tell you story in a whole new way. This is the Podcast that tells the Inside Story of people & brands who are sharing their story in important and powerful ways. They aren’t mechanical or scripted. They are unabashedly authentic and real. And they are generating massive success & fulfillment as a result! As you’ll discover, this is what makes a “Lightbeamer” The goal of the Inside Story is to inspire you to think about your own story, and learn to share it so it can shine a light for others.

  1. 2h ago

    EP272: What Fits for Your Soul - with Author Shamayne Olivia

    Life is full of transitions, evolutions, and seasons of deep change. But so often, as women navigate midlife, menopause, or the shift into an empty nest, a quiet question begins to surface: Is it too late for me to figure out who I really am? The truth is, self-discovery doesn't have an expiration date—and stepping into your truest, most authentic self often begins right when you think it’s too late. In this episode, I’m talking with author, speaker, and workshop facilitator Shamayne Olivia about what it really takes to navigate major life transitions, unpack your conditioned beliefs, and reclaim your personal power. We talk about her personal journey through divorce, unexpected loss, and finding purpose in her 40s, 50s, and beyond, as well as the unique framework behind her book and workbook, Shoes That Fit Her Soul. I invite you to join me and Shamayne as we discuss: Why it’s never too late to examine your life and reclaim the person you were meant to be The unexpected power, wisdom, and confidence that emerges on the other side of menopause How starting with simple questions like identifying your core values, likes, and dislikes - opens the door to deep self-discovery Shamayne’s personal story of navigating single motherhood, sudden grief, and learning to stand on her own Letting go of the need for external parental approval and taking your power back The 8-part walking shoe metaphor and how each element (from the sole to the laces) mirrors our personal growth and healing Why honoring your need for quiet time and smaller circles in midlife is healthy self-care, not guilt-worthy behavior Modeling freedom, resilience, and authenticity for your children and the next generation If this conversation gets you reflecting on where you are in your own life and the changes you’re moving through, hit play and listen in. And when you’re done, I’d love for you to share this episode with a woman who needs the reminder that her story isn’t over - it’s just getting started. Subscribe to my podcast - “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” - and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  2. Sep 23

    Creating Million Dollar Relationships with Kevin Thompson

    Relationships are at the heart of everything we do, both personally and professionally. But meaningful relationships aren’t built by collecting business cards or constantly looking for what someone can do for us. They’re built through curiosity, genuine conversation, active listening, appreciation, and creating space for people to connect. In this episode, I’m talking with Kevin Thompson, also known as “Kevin the Connector,” about what it really means to create relationships that can transform your business and your life. We talk about the power of bringing the right people into the same room, making meaningful introductions, and letting go of the pressure to turn every conversation into an opportunity. I invite you to join me and Kevin as we discuss: How Kevin discovered that connecting people was one of his greatest gifts Why meaningful relationships are about depth, not the number of people you meet The power of creating the right room and getting out of the way Kevin’s practice of active appreciation and how you can start using it today Why listening may be one of the most powerful ways to build connection The question Kevin loves to ask when meeting someone new How thoughtful introductions can create opportunities you never could have planned Why relationships don’t always need an agenda or immediate business outcome If this conversation gets you thinking about the relationships in your own life and business, hit play and listen in. And when you’re done, I’d love for you to share this episode with someone who believes, like I do, that the right conversation – and sometimes the right introduction – can change everything. Interview links: Kevin on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KevinTheConnector Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  3. Sep 16

    Getting Your Expertise in a Book with Rachel Harrison-Sund

    Your expertise deserves a place beyond the social media post, the podcast interview, or the speaking stage. A book can give your ideas permanence while allowing you to articulate your point of view, share your methodology, and build deeper trust with the people you want to reach. But writing a book isn't simply about filling pages – it's about identifying the message, experience, and perspective you have to offer and turning it into something your ideal reader can actually use. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with self-publishing expert and strategist Rachel Harrison-Sund to talk about what it really takes to turn your expertise into a book. Rachel shares how she helps experts package their signature frameworks, methodologies, and ideas into books that serve their readers while also building authority and credibility. In this episode, you'll discover: Why a book can build credibility in a way that social media simply can't. The surprising reason you might already have the makings of your book. When “I'm not ready yet” is wisdom – and when it's just an excuse. Why your book doesn't have to be 300 pages to make an impact. The question every author needs to answer: “Did you write this for me?” How your “busted assumption” could become the big idea that sets your book apart. What to do if you have the expertise but don't consider yourself a writer. Why speaking your book out loud might be the easiest way to get it written. The behind-the-scenes team you need to turn your ideas into a professional book. Why the right editor may be one of the most important investments you make. If you've been carrying around an idea for a book – or you've been wondering whether your expertise is ready to become one – this conversation is your invitation to stop letting that idea live in your head (or your computer) and start thinking about how it could serve the person who needs it. Listen to the full episode, then connect with Rachel and explore her Expert to Author program and her free Find Your Book's Big Idea workshop. Most importantly, if there's a message you know needs to get out into the world, find the format that allows you to get it there. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  4. Aug 26

    The Science + Story of Brain Health with Adina Maynard

    Aging is something we all think about eventually, but what if we started thinking about it a little differently? Brain health, cognitive decline, and dementia are not simply issues we have to face when we get older—they are conversations we can begin having and actions we can begin taking much earlier. From staying socially connected to keeping our brains engaged, moving our bodies, getting quality sleep, and planning ahead, there are more things within our control than we may realize. And sometimes, the choices we make today can have a much bigger impact on the quality of our later years than we think. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and client Adina Maynard, a former oncology nurse, entrepreneur, speaker, and creator of the brain game Cattywampus. Adina shares the deeply personal story of navigating her mother’s dementia and the lessons she has learned along the way about caregiving, brain health, aging well, and what we can do now to give ourselves—and the people we love—a better future. In this episode, we talk about: What happens when the “call” you knew was coming finally comes The surprising difference between being a daughter and being a nurse Why loneliness may be more than an emotion—it could be a brain-health risk The everyday habits that can help keep your “noggin” sharp Why retirement shouldn’t mean retiring from your life The real reason Adina created Cattywampus—and what she means by “productive play” Why planning for the future isn’t pessimistic—it’s a love letter If you’re part of my community, I hope this conversation gets you thinking about the people you love, the life you’re creating now, and the choices that could shape the years ahead. And if Adina’s story resonates with you, I encourage you to connect with her, explore her brain-health resources, and check out Cattywampus as another way to keep your brain engaged. Most of all, share this episode with someone who might need to hear it—because sometimes the stories we share today can help someone else make a different decision tomorrow. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  5. Aug 19

    Why Women Need Rooms to Practice Storytelling, Speaking & Visibility

    “I don't think any of us ever arrives. I don't think any of us ever gets to master level.” There comes a point in every business when you have to stop and ask: Is this still working? Is this still energizing me? And, perhaps most importantly, is this still the best way to serve the people I'm here to serve? Sometimes the answer isn't a pivot or a complete reinvention. Sometimes it's an evolution – a new way of doing what you've always believed in, one that better fits the season you're in now. In this episode of the Inside Story podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes of a pretty significant evolution happening inside LIGHTbeamers as we approach our 11th anniversary. I've been experimenting with our new live Rooms for the past couple of months, and what I've discovered through that experience has given me a whole new level of clarity about where we're going next – and why I believe we need a place like The Story Studio. In this episode, I’m sharing: Why I knew the old way of doing community wasn't working anymore – and what I decided to do about it. After more than a decade of building community on Facebook, I realized it was time for something different. What six to eight weeks of experimenting with the Rooms taught me about what women are really craving right now. And honestly? It wasn't another course, another resource, or another thing to consume. Why I believe we need spaces where we're allowed to be messy, unfinished, and imperfect. The Story Studio isn't about showing up polished. It's about getting in the room and getting the reps. The surprising lesson I learned from Robin's experience in the Listening Room. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can give someone isn't more information – it's an audience willing to listen. Why real human connection matters more than ever in the age of AI. When we can't always tell what's real online anymore, there's something incredibly refreshing about getting into a room with actual humans and having a real-time conversation. How my own podcast became my practice room – and why I want to give you that same kind of space. I didn't start this podcast because I had mastered storytelling. I started it because I needed somewhere to practice. Why LIGHTbeamers isn't disappearing – it's simply moving homes. The Story Studio is the next evolution of our community, and I'm opening the doors at $11/month to celebrate 11 years of LIGHTbeamers. The Story Studio is officially becoming the new home of the LIGHTbeamers community, and I'm so excited about what we're building here. If you're ready for a place to practice your story, your writing, your speaking, your podcasting, or simply your visibility – and you want to do it alongside other women who are putting in the reps too – I would love to have you inside. Come join me for the Story Studio Rooms and see what we're all about at lightbeamers.com/rooms. And as we head into this next chapter together, my challenge to you is the same one I'm giving myself: don't settle for 10. Let's go to 11. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  6. Aug 5

    When Your Story Becomes Your Superpower with Porsché Mysticque Steele

    Your story is more than something that happened to you. It can become the bridge between what you’ve lived, what you’ve learned, and the people who need to hear what you now know. When we learn how to uncover the right stories, we can use them to create connection, build trust, teach, lead, and ultimately help someone else move forward. But there’s an art to knowing which story to tell, when to tell it, and how much of it belongs in the room. And when you combine your lived experience with the wisdom you’ve gained along the way, your story becomes something people don’t just hear – they remember. Today, I’m joined by Porsché Mysticque Steele, a TEDx speaker, book coach, publishing professional, and founder of Mystique Rose Publishing. Porsché and I first connected at a book marketing conference, and once we started talking, I knew there was so much more to her story than the work she does today. In this conversation, she opens up about the extraordinary journey that led her from a deeply controlled childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur, speaker, and publishing expert – and what that journey taught her about the power of telling your story. Join me and Porsché as we talk about: 📚 How books became a doorway to another world for Porsché when she was physically unable to experience the life she imagined for herself – and how that ultimately led her into editing and publishing. How a skill she developed simply to fill the time became a career ✈️ The extraordinary story of leaving home and starting over. The moment she realized publishing was the work she was meant to do. How writing and processing your own story can help you discover who you really are Why you should share from your scars, not your wounds. 🍯 Why “story + wisdom = impact.” If Porsché's story has you thinking about your own stories – and maybe the ones you've been sitting on, waiting for the “right time” to tell – go connect with her. You can find her at porschesteele.com, or connect with her on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook by searching for Porsché Mysticque Steele. And if you're ready to turn your own story into a book, a talk, or something that can make a bigger impact in the world, she's definitely someone you'll want to know. And, as always, I want to leave you with this: you don't have to tell your whole story. You just have to find the story that can help someone else. So go find yours – and go share it. 💛 Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  7. Jul 29

    Who is the Unmuted Woman?

    There comes a moment when you realize the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want isn't a lack of talent or opportunity – it's the ways you've learned to silence yourself. Maybe you've been waiting until you're "ready," editing every word before you say it, or letting everyone else's opinions become louder than your own. In this latest episode of The Inside Story podcast, we're talking about what it really means to become an Unmuted Woman – to trust your voice, own your ideas, and stop shrinking yourself in the process. If you've ever walked away from a conversation wishing you'd spoken up, held back on an idea because you weren't sure it was good enough, or felt like your story wasn't important enough to share, this episode is for you. I'm sharing the mindset shifts that have been transforming not only my business, but the way I'm showing up in the world – and how you can begin doing the same. I hope you’ll join me today as I share with you: Why becoming "unmuted" isn't about becoming louder – it's about returning to the truest version of yourself. The surprising ways perfectionism, overthinking, and people-pleasing quietly keep your voice hidden. Why waiting until you feel "ready" may be the very thing keeping your best ideas stuck inside you. The powerful question that completely changed how I'm building my business, and why it might change yours too. How consuming less and creating more can help you reconnect with your own wisdom and creativity. Five practical ways to stop muting yourself and start showing up with more honesty, confidence, and visibility. Why finding the right "rooms" and community can make all the difference in helping your voice grow. If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love for you to keep it going with me. Come join one of our LIGHTbeamers Rooms, where we're creating spaces for women to speak, write, share their stories, and practice being seen and heard. And be sure to follow The Unmuted Woman on Substack, where I'm continuing to explore these ideas through deeper conversations and long-form writing. Your voice matters – and the world needs the story only you can tell. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  8. Jul 22

    Becoming Unstoppable with Storytelling with Dawn Loding

    I truly believe becoming more visible isn't about having it all figured out. It's about being willing to keep showing up, keep sharing your story, and keep taking the next brave step – even when it feels uncomfortable. I've seen firsthand how storytelling doesn't just change your business; it changes you. It builds confidence, creates connection, and over time, helps you become the kind of person who is willing to say yes to bigger opportunities. Today's conversation is one I've been looking forward to for a long time. I'm sitting down with my dear friend and longtime LIGHTbeamers member, Dawn Loding. I've had the joy of watching Dawn grow over the years – from someone who was hesitant to get on video to a confident speaker, leader, trainer, and podcast host who is impacting thousands of people in the real estate industry. Her journey is such a beautiful reminder that becoming unstoppable doesn't happen overnight. It happens one intentional step at a time. Join me and Dawn today as we talk about: Why becoming unstoppable starts with taking one faithful step instead of trying to do everything all at once. How embracing your personal story can become the foundation for your message, your business, and your leadership. The confidence that comes from sharing your story consistently—and how those skills serve you far beyond the stage. Why I've always believed that messy action will take you further than waiting until you feel ready. How personal growth always precedes professional growth, and why the inner work matters so much. Dawn's journey from living with a scarcity mindset to leading others from a place of abundance. Why it's so important to celebrate your wins, honor each chapter of your journey, and recognize just how far you've already come. I hope this conversation encourages you to take your own next step. If you're ready to become more visible, discover the stories only you can tell, and learn how to use them to create a greater impact, I'd love to welcome you into the LIGHTbeamers Community. And if Dawn's story resonates with you – especially if you're in the real estate world – I hope you'll connect with her and listen to her Agents of Abundance podcast. She's doing incredible work, and I know you'll walk away encouraged. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The INSIDE STORY takes you behind the curtain to bring you some of the biggest success stories of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and change makers.... the men & women who have walked through fire and come out on the other side brighter. How did they get there? What were some of their biggest hurdles? Be ready to hear it all. We’ll also be discussing the power of Story along the way, and how you can harness the power of your own journey to propel forward into new heights and fulfillment. Host April Pertuis will take you on a Storytelling journey through her own stories, too! As a career-long journalist and storyteller, April understands the story that is hiding inside of you. You’ll discover unique storytelling tips and mechanics that will empower you to tell you story in a whole new way. This is the Podcast that tells the Inside Story of people & brands who are sharing their story in important and powerful ways. They aren’t mechanical or scripted. They are unabashedly authentic and real. And they are generating massive success & fulfillment as a result! As you’ll discover, this is what makes a “Lightbeamer” The goal of the Inside Story is to inspire you to think about your own story, and learn to share it so it can shine a light for others.

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