Mpowered Living with Ann Sheu

Ann Sheu

Welcome to Mpowered Living, the podcast that empowers high-achievers to lead a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life in both family and business. Each week, our expert guests, thought-provoking conversations, and actionable insights will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to take charge of your life and create the future you’ve always dreamed of. Here’s to living empowered, intentional lives.

  1. Episode 61 | Marriage First, Kids Second: Building a Strong Family with Julia & Gino Barbaro

    3D AGO

    Episode 61 | Marriage First, Kids Second: Building a Strong Family with Julia & Gino Barbaro

    What is one behavior in your home that your children might be learning simply by watching you? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Julia and Gino Barbaro for a candid conversation about marriage, parenting, and building a strong family culture while navigating business, money, and personal growth. With nearly three decades of marriage and six children, Julia and Gino share what they’ve learned about raising kids who genuinely enjoy being together, working through disagreements without damaging relationships, and staying aligned as partners through seasons of growth and change. In this episode, they explore: A simple shift that helps couples argue without turning disagreements into personal attacksWhy many high-achievers struggle to move from “problem solving” to truly listeningThe surprising question one parent asked their children that opened the door to deep healingA powerful habit that helped their family stay connected despite busy schedulesHow parents unknowingly pass down hidden beliefs about moneyWhy modeling behavior matters far more than the advice we giveThis conversation is especially relevant for parents, couples, and leaders who want to build stronger relationships at home while still pursuing growth and success in their professional lives. Connect with Julia and Gino Barbaro: Website: https://barbaro360.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbaro_360/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbaro360/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@barbaro-360 Skool: https://www.skool.com/barbaro360

    55 min
  2. Episode 60 | Stop Pushing Through: A New Model of Resilient Leadership with Jodi Scott

    FEB 26

    Episode 60 | Stop Pushing Through: A New Model of Resilient Leadership with Jodi Scott

    When was the last time you paused long enough to notice your feet on the ground before making a hard decision? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with entrepreneur and founder of Green Goo, Jodi Scott, for a deeply human conversation about leadership, loss, resilience, and the underestimated power of presence. Jodi shares the story behind her guiding philosophy to “spread goodness” — and how that belief was tested when she lost her company, her team, and her sense of purpose almost overnight. What followed wasn’t hustle. It wasn’t grind. It was something far more powerful. In this episode, they explore: Why “pushing through” is often a half-full version of resilienceThe 30-second presence practice that can change how you lead under pressureWhat happens to a team when a leader walks into a room rushed and reactiveHow presence creates psychological safety, creativity, and trustThe subtle difference between being firm and being in fight-or-flightWhy leaders who are rescuers and protectors burn out fasterThe reframe from “protector” to “archer” — and how that changes your energyHow small discomforts (like choosing the middle airplane seat) build resilience muscleWhat it looks like to bring leadership lessons home to your childrenThis conversation is especially relevant for leaders and parents who feel the pull to constantly fix, solve, and save — and are ready to lead from something deeper. Connect with Jodi Scott Instagram Facebook Green Goo (@greengoohelps) | TikTok Jodi Scott | LinkedIn Plants With Purpose | Green Goo by SPRY LIFE LLC

    37 min
  3. Episode 59 | From Burnout to Agency: Taking Control of Your Career with Lisa Seay

    FEB 20

    Episode 59 | From Burnout to Agency: Taking Control of Your Career with Lisa Seay

    If you’re frustrated with someone… have you actually had the conversation yet? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with executive coach Lisa Seay for a grounded, honest conversation about leadership, trust, burnout, and the real work happening behind the scenes in leaders’ lives. Lisa shares what she’s learned from years of coaching mid-level and senior leaders—and why so many capable people feel unsure, underprepared, or stuck even after “making it.” From imposter syndrome to difficult conversations to career pivots, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about power… it’s about self-awareness and clarity. In this episode, they unpack: Why leaders struggle to “be human” with their teams—and how vulnerability builds trustA simple structured approach to helping new leaders assimilate with a teamWhat leaders get wrong about “hard conversations” (and why avoiding them causes more damage)The truth behind “clear is kind” and why clarity is a leadership responsibilityThe #1 reason career transitions stall: lack of clarity around what you want and whyHow to ask for help (or build connections) without sounding salesy or needyBurnout warning signs leaders miss—especially “overextended behaviors” that feel unlike youThe coaching question that unlocks everything: “What do you want instead?”Why great leadership begins in the mirror Connect with Lisa Seay Connect on LinkedIn www.theelementc.com Book a Get to Know Each Other Call

    48 min
  4. Episode 58 | When Life Happens: Tools to Manage Stress and Build Resilience with Dr. Rachel Goldman

    FEB 12

    Episode 58 | When Life Happens: Tools to Manage Stress and Build Resilience with Dr. Rachel Goldman

    If your calendar is full but your energy is empty… what’s your body trying to tell you? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Dr. Rachel to talk about the mindset shift most high-achievers don’t realize they need—until life forces it. As a clinical psychologist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dr. Rachel breaks down why stress isn’t the problem… it’s how we’ve been trained to respond to it. And how small, practical tools—used consistently—can change the way we handle pressure, ambition, and burnout before it hits crisis mode. In this episode, they explore: The early warning signs of burnout most high performers miss (until it’s too late)How to tell the difference between “healthy drive” and harmful, chronic stressWhat to do when your self-worth is tied to productivity and achievementWhy “earning your rest” keeps leaders stuck in an endless “what’s next?” loopA simple way to pause and reset—even if breathing exercises feel too “woo-woo”How to separate who you are from what you produce (without unraveling your identity)What Dr. Rachel teaches her kids now so they don’t need the tools only after life happensThis conversation is especially relevant for leaders, entrepreneurs, and parents who feel stretched thin—but still keep pushing anyway. Connect with Dr. Rachel Goldman Website: www.DrRachelNYC.com Instagram: @DrRachelNYC When Life Happens: The Mindset Shift You Need to Manage Stress, Build Confidence, and Break Free https://whenlifehappensbook.com

    39 min
  5. Episode 57 | Living on Purpose: Marriage, Parenting & Soul School with Mike and Jill Kotsis

    FEB 5

    Episode 57 | Living on Purpose: Marriage, Parenting & Soul School with Mike and Jill Kotsis

    Where in your life are you giving from your leftovers—and what would change if you started creating from wholeness instead? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Mike & Jill Kotsis for a powerful conversation on intentional living, marriage, parenting, and the daily choices that help a family thrive. Early in their relationship, Mike experienced a major health wake-up call that became a turning point for how they approached life. What followed wasn’t a dramatic overnight transformation—it was a slow, intentional shift toward creating from wholeness instead of from depletion. Together, they share how small habits, honest communication, and a willingness to question everything helped them build a life rooted in purpose, faith, and freedom. In this episode, they explore: How a health crisis became the catalyst for changing how they lived, worked, and loved“Me for we”: why putting your own oxygen mask on first protects the whole familyThe power of micro-habits and small daily choices that compound over timeWhy extreme changes rarely last—and what sustainable growth actually looks likeSoul School: rethinking education as learning from the inside out, not outside inHow to cultivate trust and curiosity in children without giving up parental leadershipBuilding a marriage through daily intention, prayer, and continuous growth togetherWhy intentional communication is the foundation for couples building businesses and families This conversation is especially relevant for couples, entrepreneurs, and parents who want to live with clarity—without burning out or losing what matters most. Connect with Mike and Jill Kotsis Website: https://mikekotsis.com/ Jill Kotsis Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-kotsis-76bb5b2/ Jill Kotsis IG: https://www.instagram.com/jillkotsis/ Jill Kotsis FB: https://www.facebook.com/jill.kotsis.2025 Mike Kotsis Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekotsis/ Mike Kotsis EOS: https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/mike-kotsis/ Mike Kotsis IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikekotsis22/ Mike Kotsis FB: https://www.facebook.com/MikeKotsis1

    46 min
  6. Episode 56 | Inside the Society of Child Entrepreneurs: Teaching Kids to Lead with Leah Ellis

    JAN 30

    Episode 56 | Inside the Society of Child Entrepreneurs: Teaching Kids to Lead with Leah Ellis

    Where might you be underestimating what your child (or team) is capable of—and how could you give them a little more room to lead? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, for an inspiring conversation on what it looks like to raise leaders by letting kids lead. Leah shares how the organization was born out of an unexpected pivot during COVID—and how her own daughter’s simple question (“Why can’t I start a business?”) became the spark that turned into a movement helping kids build confidence through entrepreneurship. Together, they explore what happens when we stop underestimating children, give them real responsibility, and create environments where they can practice leadership, decision-making, and ownership—while still being kids. In this episode, they explore: How kids ages 6–17 learn financial literacy, leadership, and entrepreneurship by running real businessesLeah’s daughter’s first business (and how it surprised even the adults)Why children are often more capable than we assume—and what changes when we step backHow parents can guide without rescuing, fixing, or controllingThe power of “narrating the situation” so kids don’t feel ignoredProtecting what matters with clear calendar boundaries and family routinesWhat it looks like to intentionally say no—even to good thingsA practical rule for decision-making: the 48-hour waiting periodWhy true success isn’t just about numbers, but confidence and long-term impactThe hardest part of kids’ business fairs isn’t the kids—it’s the parents letting goThis conversation is especially relevant for parents and leaders who want to build strong, confident kids—and create a family culture rooted in intentional living, responsibility, and growth. Connect with Leah Ellis: Website: https://www.societyofchildentrepreneurs.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahkellis/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocietyofChildEntrepreneurs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/societyofchildentrepreneurs SoCE Circle:https://www.skool.com/socecircle

    36 min
  7. Episode 55 | You’re Not Broken—You’re a Visionary: Unlocking Your Genius with Mark C. Winters

    JAN 22

    Episode 55 | You’re Not Broken—You’re a Visionary: Unlocking Your Genius with Mark C. Winters

    Where are you spending time on what you’re good at—but secretly dread? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Mark C. Winters for a powerful conversation on intentional living, visionary leadership, and the clarity that comes from truly knowing yourself. Mark—co-author of Rocket Fuel and author of his newest book, Visionary—shares what he’s learned from working with driven entrepreneurs who move fast, think big, and often feel misunderstood for being “too much.” Together, they unpack what happens when visionary strengths are undervalued (even by the visionary), why many leaders get stuck in the “trap” of doing what they’re good at—but don’t enjoy—and how clarity about your “why” becomes the foundation for a business and life that actually serve you. In this episode, they explore: Why visionary entrepreneurs can feel “unemployable” in traditional environmentsThe overlooked superpowers visionaries often dismiss because they come naturallyThe “trap quadrant”: being great at something you dread—and how it drains your energyWhat it means for the business to serve you (instead of you serving the business)How the visionary–integrator relationship creates healthier execution and less chaosA simple mindset practice: “think about what you think about” to reduce spirals and stressHow defining your future (and your version of freedom) changes how you lead todayThis conversation is especially relevant for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to grow without burning out—and who are ready to build a business aligned with joy, purpose, and long-term fulfillment.Connect with Mark C. Winters Website: https://www.markcwinters.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcwinters/ MCW Books: Click here

    50 min
  8. Episode 54 | The Quiet Work of Leadership: Clarity, Conviction & Consistency with Matt King

    JAN 15

    Episode 54 | The Quiet Work of Leadership: Clarity, Conviction & Consistency with Matt King

    If someone looked at your calendar, what would they assume you value most? In this episode of Mpowered Living, Ann Sheu sits down with Matt King, CEO of GoBundance, for a real conversation about ambition, success, and the quiet tradeoffs leaders often don’t notice while they’re in the middle of building. Matt works closely with high-performing entrepreneurs and leaders, and he shares patterns he’s seen again and again, including what to pay attention to before success starts costing more than it gives. In this episode, they explore: A common trap ambitious leaders fall into without realizing itA subtle warning sign that often shows up long before burnoutA mindset shift that changes how progress is measuredWhy “later” is a risky strategyA leadership muscle that affects work, family, and self This conversation is especially relevant for entrepreneurs, parents, and leaders who want to grow professionally without sacrificing what matters most. 🚴‍♂️ Watch out for The Ride — Coming May 2026 Matt is preparing for his boldest challenge yet: The Ride. Launching May 2026, this cross-country bike journey begins at the border of Mexico and pushes both physical and mental limits as Matt rides across the U.S. More than a ride, this is a real-time experiment in leadership, purpose, and becoming the man you’re called to be. Connect with Matt King Personal Website: https://themattking.com/ Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattking.atx/ Pesonal Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mattkingatx The Matt King Show: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBX67Nf9A64Z9APx1o8S9pA GoBundance Website: https://gobundance.com/ GoBundance Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobundance/

    53 min
4.9
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Mpowered Living, the podcast that empowers high-achievers to lead a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life in both family and business. Each week, our expert guests, thought-provoking conversations, and actionable insights will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to take charge of your life and create the future you’ve always dreamed of. Here’s to living empowered, intentional lives.