Finding Your Inspiration

Jill Van Balen

Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is a National CORE Production benefiting the Hope through Housing Foundation. Prepare to be moved, motivated, and transformed as we unearth the power of inspiration and the life-altering paths that led our guests to accomplish amazing feats. This is Finding Your Inspiration.

  1. Jul 14

    #123 | Everyone Said They Would Fail... They Built It Anyway (Part 1)

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with JP and Stephanie — entrepreneurs, dance instructors, and founders of Salsa With Stephanie, a thriving dance studio that has empowered thousands of people through movement, confidence, and community. But their journey to building a successful business wasn't easy. Before opening the doors to their studio, they faced uncertainty, setbacks, and countless people who questioned whether their dream could ever become a reality. From overcoming personal hardships and life-changing obstacles to taking a leap of faith together, JP and Stephanie share the moments that shaped not only their business, but their lives. In Part 1 of this conversation, they reflect on their individual journeys, how dance brought them together, and the challenges they faced while pursuing a vision that many believed would never succeed. They also share the mindset, resilience, and unwavering belief that kept them moving forward when giving up would have been the easier choice. Their story is a reminder that every successful dream begins long before anyone sees the finished product. This is a conversation about perseverance, partnership, and having the courage to build something bigger than yourself. 🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation Salsa With Stephanie 🌐 https://www.stephaniestevenson.com/ 📸 Stephanie's Instagram    / salsawithstephanie   📸 JP's Instagram    / silverbackyogi   💙 Hope Through Housing Foundation 🌐 https://hthf.org/ 🏢 National CORE 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 🎙 FYI's Socials 📸   / fyi_podcast   🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today. 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story.

  2. Jul 8

    #122 | From Sleeping in Her Car to Living Her Dream as a Glass Blower Artist: Carlyn Ray

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Carlyn Ray — glassblower, artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Carlyn Ray Designs, whose breathtaking glass sculptures and installations have transformed homes, businesses, and public spaces throughout Texas, California and beyond. But Carlyn's journey wasn't always filled with success. Long before becoming an accomplished glass artist, she faced years of uncertainty, sacrifice, and struggle while pursuing a dream that many people told her was unrealistic. At one point, she was sleeping in her car, doing whatever it took to continue creating and building a future through her art. In this conversation, Carlyn shares what first drew her to the world of glassblowing, the challenges of choosing passion over security, and the lessons she learned from refusing to give up. She reflects on the realities of building a career as an artist, the resilience it takes to succeed, and how working with molten glass has shaped not only her craft, but her outlook on life. From sleeping in her car to becoming an award-winning glassblower whose work inspires communities, Carlyn's story is a powerful reminder that success rarely comes overnight—but perseverance has a way of opening doors. T his is a conversation about resilience, creativity, and what can happen when you refuse to quit on your dream. 🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation

About

Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is a National CORE Production benefiting the Hope through Housing Foundation. Prepare to be moved, motivated, and transformed as we unearth the power of inspiration and the life-altering paths that led our guests to accomplish amazing feats. This is Finding Your Inspiration.