Bring Your Big Energy Podcast

Bring Your Big Energy
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Self-Improvement

Welcome to The Bring Your Big Energy Podcast, where life gets messy, growth gets real, and your spark gets reignited. I’m Stacey Kulongowski, bestselling author and coach, bringing you stories, mindset resets, and real talk about the energy it takes to rise. From 1:1 "Shine Today with Stacey K" episodes, to deep courageous guest conversations, this is where intensity points, laughter, and truth collide and you remember just how powerful your Big Energy really is.

  1. Sep 24

    Dropping the “Shoulds”

    What if the life you’re supposed to want isn’t actually the life you want at all? ✨ In this powerful episode of Bring Your Fierce Energy, Stacey Kulongowski turns the conversation inward to explore what happens when you stop living by the expectations, rules, and “shoulds” that society has placed on you—and start listening to what you truly want for yourself. From the pressure to follow a certain timeline to the expectations around success, relationships, careers, and who we’re supposed to become, Stacey dives into the invisible rules that can shape our decisions without us even realizing it. Because sometimes, the hardest thing to do isn’t figuring out what you want—it’s giving yourself permission to want something different. Stacey shares an honest perspective on what it means to let go of the need to do life “the right way” and instead create a life that feels authentic, energizing, and aligned with who you are. She explores the courage it takes to disappoint expectations, redefine success, and trust yourself enough to choose a path that may look completely different from the one you were told to follow. This conversation is a reminder that you don't have to earn permission to change your mind, rewrite the rules, or choose a different path. You don't have to keep doing something simply because you “should.” And you certainly don't have to live a life designed around making everyone else comfortable. ✨ In this episode, you'll learn:• Why we feel so much pressure to live according to society's expectations• How the “shoulds” can quietly influence our careers, relationships, and everyday choices• What it really means to stop living for other people's approval• Why choosing a different path doesn't mean you've failed• How to recognize when you're living according to expectations instead of your own desires• The courage it takes to redefine what success and fulfillment mean to you• How letting go of the “shoulds” can create space for more freedom, joy, and authenticity• Why your life doesn't have to look like anyone else's to be meaningful If you've ever caught yourself thinking, “I should be further along,” “I should want this,” or “I should be doing what everyone else is doing,” this episode is your reminder to pause, question the rules, and ask yourself a different question: What do I actually want? ✨ Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode with someone who needs permission to drop the “shoulds” and start living life on their own terms.

    Dropping the “Shoulds”

  2. Sep 17

    The Threads Between Us: Uncovering History, Telling Our Stories and Living Fearlessly

    What if the different chapters of your life aren’t separate stories—but invisible strings connecting you to where you’re meant to go next?In this powerful episode of Bring Your Fierce Energy, Stacey Kulongowski sits down with bestselling author, preservationist, and storyteller Sharon Virts to explore the unexpected connections woven throughout her life—and how every chapter has helped shape the woman, creator, and storyteller she is today.From her lifelong fascination with history and forgotten stories to becoming a bestselling author, restoring a historic Virginia estate, and earning recognition for her contributions to the arts and community, Sharon’s journey is a powerful reminder that our paths don't always make sense while we're living them. Sometimes, it's only when we look back that we can see the invisible strings connecting it all.Sharon shares how the experiences, passions, and opportunities throughout her life eventually led her to write richly layered historical fiction, including Veil of Doubt, The Grays of Truth, and the Field of Honor series. Along the way, she has followed her curiosity, embraced new chapters, and continued finding meaningful ways to preserve and bring stories from the past into the present.This conversation isn't just about success, writing, or history. It's about trusting the journey, recognizing the connections between seemingly unrelated chapters, and realizing that the things we experience along the way may be preparing us for something we can't yet see.✨ In this episode, you'll learn:• How the different chapters of Sharon's life became connected in unexpected ways• Why our passions and experiences can become invisible threads guiding our journey• What Sharon's path to becoming a bestselling author taught her about following curiosity• How embracing new chapters can lead to opportunities you never imagined• The connection between storytelling, preservation, and purpose• Why looking backward can sometimes help you understand where you're going next• How Sharon turned her fascination with the past into a body of work that continues to inspire othersIf this episode reminds you that no chapter of your story is wasted—and that the invisible strings may be connecting you to something you haven't discovered yet—don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with someone who is learning to trust their own journey. ✨To learn more about Sharon Virts, her books, and her work, visit:🌐 The Art of Living History: http://www.theartoflivinghistory.comBookclub: #ReadWithSharon FB: SharonVirtsBooks IG: @sharonvirtsbooks

    The Threads Between Us: Uncovering History, Telling Our Stories and Living Fearlessly

  3. Sep 10

    No is a Complete Sentence, No Explanation Needed

    What if burnout isn't a sign that you're failing—but a signal that something needs to change?In this powerful episode of Bring Your Fierce Energy, Stacey Kulongowski sits down with board-certified doctor of nursing, leadership coach, TEDx speaker, and founder of Empowered Moms, Dr. Emily Jacobs, to talk about what happens when successful women stop running on empty and start leading with intention.Dr. Emily shares the story behind Empowered Moms, a national community created to help ambitious women overcome burnout, reconnect with themselves, and lead with purpose. Through her work as a healthcare professional, leadership coach, and advocate for women, Emily brings a unique perspective to the challenges so many women face while trying to balance achievement, family, leadership, and their own well-being.This conversation isn't just about burnout or leadership. It's about recognizing when the way you're living no longer serves you, giving yourself permission to make a change, and understanding that success shouldn't come at the expense of yourself.✨ In this episode, you'll learn:• Why burnout can be a signal—not a personal failure• How ambitious women can redefine what success looks like• The importance of leading with purpose and intention• Why you can't pour from an empty cup• How to recognize when it's time to make a change• The power of building a community that supports and empowers women• Why taking care of yourself is essential to becoming the leader you want to beIf this episode inspires you to slow down, reconnect with your purpose, or finally give yourself permission to lead differently, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with someone who's ready to bring their fiercest energy. ✨To learn more about what Emily is up to visit the following: https://empoweredmoms.co/ https://www.instagram.com/dremilyjacobs/https://dremilyjacobs.com/ Speaker Website https://www.linkedin.com/in/dremilyjacobs/

    No is a Complete Sentence, No Explanation Needed

  4. Sep 3

    Rising from the Ashes and Finding Your Revolution

    What if the thing that feels like a career setback is actually the beginning of the work you were meant to do?In this powerful episode of Bring Your Fierce Energy, Stacey Kulongowski sits down with Emmy-nominated producer, storyteller, speaker, and founder of 1 Girl Revolution, Kate Milligan, to talk about what happens when you stop waiting for someone else to create the opportunity you wish existed—and decide to create it yourself.Kate shares the story behind 1 Girl Revolution, which began with a simple desire to tell the stories of women and girls who were being overlooked and has grown into an award-winning multimedia organization featuring hundreds of inspiring voices. From leaving a career in PR and media to building a podcast, producing Emmy-nominated documentaries, and creating a community centered around women's stories, Kate's journey is a powerful reminder that one person with a vision can create a ripple effect far beyond what they ever imagined.This conversation isn't just about entrepreneurship or storytelling. It's about recognizing your purpose, trusting the idea that won't leave you alone, and understanding that your voice—and the stories you choose to amplify—can have an impact.✨ In this episode, you'll learn:• How frustration can become the catalyst for discovering your purpose• Why every woman has a story worth telling• How Kate turned an idea into an Emmy-nominated multimedia organization• The power of storytelling to create connection and change• Why you don't need to wait for permission to create something meaningful• How one person's passion can inspire an entire community• Why your unique gifts and experiences may be pointing you toward your purposeIf this episode inspires you to trust your voice, pursue the idea that's been on your heart, or tell a story that deserves to be heard, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with someone who's ready to bring their fiercest energy. ✨

    Rising from the Ashes and Finding Your Revolution

  5. Aug 28

    Redefining the Meaning of Success and finding Joy in the Unexpected

    Candice Wilmuth’s journey to founding Tahoe Dog Co. didn’t begin with a perfectly mapped-out business plan. It started with an unexpected career transition, a little more time to reconnect with what mattered to her, and a growing realization that the life she loved in Lake Tahoe could become something bigger. After being laid off from Google, Candice spent time volunteering in her community, fostering dogs, and reconnecting with the outdoors and the place she called home. Somewhere along the way, an idea sparked: what if there were a way to celebrate the dogs, people, and places that make Tahoe so special?That idea became Tahoe Dog Co., a lifestyle brand inspired by real Tahoe dogs and the adventures they share with their humans. What started with a poster of her dog, Sampson, exploring the Rubicon Trail has grown into a brand featuring collars, leashes, bandanas, hats, stickers, and a community-centered mission.But this conversation isn’t just about starting a dog brand. It’s about what can happen when an unexpected change gives you the opportunity to ask yourself what kind of life you actually want to build. Candice shares what it was like to step away from a long corporate career, follow a creative idea, and turn something deeply personal into a business. We talk about reinvention, taking a leap when you don’t have everything figured out, finding inspiration in everyday life, and building a brand around something you genuinely care about.We also talk about the importance of community, creativity, and letting your own experiences shape the work you create. For Candice, Tahoe Dog Co. isn’t simply about merchandise — the products are a way for people to show that they’re part of something bigger: a lifestyle centered around dogs, the outdoors, adventure, connection, and the place they love.One of the most meaningful reminders from Candice’s story is that sometimes the biggest opportunities can come from moments you never planned for. You don’t always need to know exactly what comes next. Sometimes you just need to pay attention to what makes you feel excited, follow the idea, and be willing to build something along the way.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what comes next, feeling stuck between the path you planned and the life you actually want, consider this episode your reminder that a new chapter can start in the most unexpected places. Because sometimes losing one direction gives you the space to discover another.CONNECT WITH CANDICE WILMUTHLearn more about Tahoe Dog Co.:Tahoe Dog Co. Website: http://tahoedogco.comInstagram: @tahoedogcoWANT MORE BIG ENERGY?Join the Bring Your Big Energy newsletter for coaching insights, inspiration, behind-the-scenes updates, and practical ways to bring more Big Energy into your career and life.Subscribe and stay connected so you don’t miss what’s coming next!

    Redefining the Meaning of Success and finding Joy in the Unexpected

  6. Aug 20

    The White House, Saying Yes & The Unlikely Advantage

    What happens when you stop waiting to feel qualified and start saying yes to the opportunities that intrigue you? In this episode of the Bring Your Big Energy Podcast, I sit down with Dana Ayers, former White House staffer, Navy reservist, national security professional, Afghanistan veteran, and bestselling author of Confessions of an Unlikely Runner. Dana’s incredible journey began with a White House internship she never expected to land and continued through FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, the Navy, Afghanistan, and countless other experiences she simply decided to raise her hand for. But this conversation isn’t really about having an extraordinary résumé. It’s about what can happen when you stop talking yourself out of things. Dana shares why she follows the “cracked doors” in front of her instead of relying on a perfectly mapped-out five-year plan, why she treats new opportunities as experiments, and how experiencing failure has actually made her more willing to take risks. We talk about FOMO, courage, reinvention, other people’s opinions, following your gut, doing things simply because they sound cool, and why you don’t need to feel completely ready before you begin. One of my favorite reminders from Dana? “You’re never going to be ready. Start now and start wherever you are.” If there’s something you’ve been quietly thinking about trying, consider this episode your invitation to push that door open a little farther. Because you get one life. And as Dana says: Do the thing. CONNECT WITH DANA AYERS Best place to buy Dana’s book, Confessions of an Unlikely Runner:Amazon Website:DC DANA Facebook:@DanaLAyers Instagram: @danaayersauthor WANT MORE BIG ENERGY? Join the Bring Your Big Energy newsletter for coaching insights, inspiration, behind-the-scenes updates, and practical ways to bring more Big Energy into your career and life. Subscribe and stay connected so you don’t miss what’s coming next!

    The White House, Saying Yes & The Unlikely Advantage

  7. Aug 13

    Why Not Me? Choosing Yourself & Creating a Life You Love

    What happens when you realize you've spent years encouraging everyone else to dream bigger… while quietly shrinking your own dreams? Stacey sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, community builder, and BADE movement creator Monica Curtis for an honest, energizing conversation about choosing yourself, finding fulfillment, and having the courage to go after more. Monica shares the story behind Be Anything, Do Everything, including the moment she realized she believed her children could do anything—but had stopped believing the same thing about herself. From there, she began building a life around purpose, authenticity, community, and the willingness to do it scared. You'll hear powerful insights about confidence, failure, entrepreneurship, boundaries, self-investment, finding your people, and taking back the pen to write your own next chapter. If you've ever thought, “Is this it?” or “I'm meant for more,” press play. This is your reminder: your dreams count, too. #BringYourBigEnergy #BringYourFierceEnergy #WomenEmpoweringWomen #FemaleEntrepreneur #PersonalGrowth #WomenInBusiness #Confidence #Mindset #ChooseYourself

    Why Not Me? Choosing Yourself & Creating a Life You Love

  8. Aug 6

    Dress with Intention: The Confidence Every Woman Needs

    What if confidence starts before you ever say a word? In this episode, Stacey Kulongowski sits down with personal stylist Jessica Renee to uncover the surprising connection between what we wear, how we feel, and the opportunities we create. Together, they explore why investing in yourself isn't vanity—it's leadership. From overcoming decision fatigue and decluttering your closet to dressing for the life you want instead of the life you're settling for, this conversation is filled with practical advice and powerful mindset shifts. If you've ever felt stuck, overlooked, or disconnected from the woman you know you're capable of becoming, this episode will remind you that confidence isn't something you find—it's something you choose every single day.

    Dress with Intention: The Confidence Every Woman Needs
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About

Welcome to The Bring Your Big Energy Podcast, where life gets messy, growth gets real, and your spark gets reignited. I’m Stacey Kulongowski, bestselling author and coach, bringing you stories, mindset resets, and real talk about the energy it takes to rise. From 1:1 "Shine Today with Stacey K" episodes, to deep courageous guest conversations, this is where intensity points, laughter, and truth collide and you remember just how powerful your Big Energy really is.

Information

  • Creator
    Bring Your Big Energy
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bring Your Big Energy
  • Show Website
    Bring Your Big Energy Podcast