Untrapped: Building a Life Beyond Business

Rory Miller

You built a successful coaching business to create freedom, but somewhere along the way, success became your prison. You're making great money but working insane hours. You have clients but no life. You created a business that was supposed to serve you, but now you serve it completely. The alarm goes off at 5 AM. You check emails before your feet hit the floor. Your calendar owns your soul. Your phone buzzes with "urgent" requests that aren't really urgent. You haven't taken a real vacation in years because "the business can't run without you." You tell yourself this is temporary. That once you hit the next revenue milestone, you'll slow down. But the goalposts keep moving, and the trap gets tighter. Here's what nobody tells you: The problem isn't your revenue. It's your business model. You don't need to work harder. You don't need more clients. You don't need another marketing strategy. You need to get untrapped. This isn't about working less and making less. It's about working smarter and living more. It's about building systems that serve you instead of enslaving you. It's about remembering that business is supposed to enhance your life, not consume it. Freedom isn't the reward for success. Freedom IS success. Welcome to Untrapped - where we build lives beyond business.

  1. Jul 23 ·  Video

    Transforming Entrepreneurial Narratives with Stephanie Sherwood

    Join us in this episode as we sit down with Stephanie Sherwood, founder of The Tapestry Network, a platform that intersects faith, professional development, and personal growth for Christian women entrepreneurs.  With a rich background including 15 years in corporate leadership at Macy's and launching a mobile boutique, Stephanie transitioned into creating a nonprofit that empowers women across multiple regions.  Discover her unique Business Tree framework that goes beyond networking by integrating purpose, community, and professional excellence.  Stephanie also shares inspirational stories from her personal and professional journey, her upcoming book 'The Tapestry Effect,' and her commitment to establishing over a thousand support groups globally.  Dive into her insights on the power of healing, the importance of personal stories, and her vision for the future.  Whether you're an entrepreneur or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways and uplifting stories. Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://thetapestrynetwork.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieasherwood/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTapestryNetwork  Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Stephanie Sherwood 01:00 Stephanie's Entrepreneurial Journey 02:15 The Power of Storytelling 03:34 Challenges and Lessons Learned 05:05 Transition to Networking and Community Building 08:26 Founding The Tapestry Network 12:27 Growing The Tapestry Network 15:05 Purpose and Significance in Life 19:49 Gratitude and Perspective 26:52 Finding Common Ground in a Divided World 27:20 The Shallowing of Relationships 28:54 The Importance of Self-Reflection and Apology 30:45 Managing Emotions and Road Rage 32:58 Personal Growth and Legacy Building 37:26 Challenges and Strategies for Business Growth 42:35 The Power of Community and Collaboration 46:44 Future Plans and Getting Involved

  2. Jul 21 ·  Video

    Strategic Growth and AI Evolution with Rita Ferrandino

    Rita Ferrandino on AI Disruption, Growth Strategy, and Scaling Education Companies | Untrapped In this episode of Untrapped, we're joined by Rita Ferrandino, founding partner of Arc Capital Development, to discuss how she helps education and training companies at inflection points accelerate growth through strategic planning, operational efficiency, talent alignment, and, when needed, capital raises, M&A, or acquisition prep. Rita explains why many businesses are struggling amid a downturn affecting small and mid-sized firms and argues that superficial AI adoption (like isolated trainings or “we use AI internally”) is insufficient without rethinking strategy, risk tolerance, revenue diversification, and HR to ensure A-player teams. Rita shares how Arc quickly upskilled by building AI “clones” and voices, and why buy-versus-build and acquiring AI talent can create market advantage. She cautions that AI can create false confidence if leaders expect it to fix broken processes, and emphasizes disciplined planning, resilience, and skating to where customer demand is going. Connect with Rita: Website: https://arccd.com/rita-ferrandino/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaferrandino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rita.ferrandino.5/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Rita Ferrandino 01:15 What She Does 02:08 Strategy Before Capital 03:08 Double Bottom Line 03:49 Why Companies Call 05:10 AI Reality Check 08:32 Rebuilding the Plan 11:07 Where to Start 13:02 Arc Goes All In 16:51 Buy Versus Build 19:54 Skate to the Puck 21:00 Upskilling for AI 21:48 Self Funded AI Upskilling 23:07 Vetting AI Trainers 23:49 Beyond Big Consultants 26:00 AI Hype And Process 28:29 Winners And Shakeout 29:55 Rita Ferrandino Intro 31:22 Do AI Degrees Matter 33:30 Arc Capital Growth Playbook 34:50 Goals Health And Abundance 37:01 Founder Isolation And Discipline 38:05 Wrap Up And Contact

  3. Jul 20 ·  Video

    Redefining Success: Insights from Futurist Joyce Gioia

    Embracing the Future with Empathy: A Conversation with Joyce Gioia Join us in this riveting episode of Untrapped with Joyce Gioia, a world-class futurist and bestselling author.  Joyce's latest book, Experience Rules, combines her vast experience in marketing and human resources to create a holistic approach to driving profit through positive experiences.  We dive deep into her insights on AI, technology adoption, and the importance of empathy.  Learn about Joyce's fascinating career journey from the youngest national magazine publisher to her current focus on employee retention and leadership development.  Whether you're curious about AI's role in the future workplace or seeking ways to blend technology with a people-first approach, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice. Connect with Joyce: Website: https://www.joycegioia.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joycegioia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyce_l.gioia/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:03 Joyce Gioia's Background and Achievements 01:17 Experience Rules: The New Book 02:38 The Herman Group and Employee Retention 03:39 Early Career and Publishing Journey 10:31 AI and Empathy in Business 15:27 AI's Role in Daily Life and Business 24:37 Balancing Work and Personal Life 26:17 Future Projects and Innovations 36:57 Conclusion and Contact Information 27:44 Navigating Business Growth and Personal Fulfillment 31:50 Balancing Work and Personal Life 32:24 Adapting to Post-Pandemic Changes 38:14 The Impact of AI on Coaching 40:01 Measuring Success and Overcoming Challenges 41:55 Expanding into Whole Life Optimization Coaching 49:20 Future Goals and Aspirations

  4. Jul 17 ·  Video

    Leadership in the Age of AI with Bill Fournet

    Strategic Foresight, Judgment, and Leading Through Uncertainty in the Age of AI with Bill Fournet Bill Fournet, founder and CEO of The Persimmon Group, has spent over 30 years helping executives across industries navigate complex transformation, including guiding projects exceeding $10 billion and earning recognition from the US Chamber of Commerce and the Inc. 500. Bill’s focus is on strategic planning, leadership development, and building organizational rhythm amid rapid change, emphasizing self-awareness and judgment over rigid process, and warning against hero-based, high-stress cultures that don’t scale. He believes in coaching judgment through questioning, debriefs, and avoiding complacency, and outlines how leaders should approach AI with strategy and courage rather than letting IT dictate direction, keeping human discernment in the loop. Bill coaches his clients to hire for critical thinking and communication, improve meetings with his POP framework, and previews his upcoming book, “The Map vs. the Terrain.” Don't miss it! Connect with Bill: Websites: https://thepersimmongroup.com/ https://billfournet.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billfournet/ Order the book "The Map vs. the Terrain": https://a.co/d/09CQgTfL Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Buzzwords to Reality 00:52 Meet Bill Fournet 01:19 The Persimmon Group Mission 02:22 Career Path to Projects 04:26 Stress Culture and Scaling 06:56 Building Judgment in Teams 10:41 AI Strategy and Courage 14:46 Hiring for the AI Era 18:17 Why Gen Z Reads Rooms 19:47 Feedback Through Questions 22:13 The Map vs. the Terrain 23:04 Leading AI Change 25:49 Skills For New Hires 31:06 Internal AI Workflows 31:58 Meetings And POP 34:33 Future Focus And Fundamentals 37:54 Where To Find Bill

  5. 12/29/2025 ·  Video

    Confidence Beyond Challenges with Scott Ballard

    From Dyslexia to Million Dollar Success: Scott Ballard's Entrepreneurial Journey Join us in this episode as we sit down with Scott Ballard, the founder of Confidence Coach LLC.  Growing up with dyslexia, Scott didn't just overcome his learning challenges—he transformed them into a foundation for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey, creating multiple businesses and even a thriving leadership development company.  Learn about Scott's unique approach, his top industry performances, and the impactful work he's done around the world, from corporate consulting to creating the largest job incubator in Africa.  Discover powerful insights on embracing limitations, finding true identity, and the integral role of faith in personal and professional success. Connect with Scott: Website: https://www.confidencecoach.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ballard-a3250422/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottconfidence Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Scott Ballard's Journey 01:13 Scott Ballard's Early Entrepreneurial Ventures 02:29 The Birth of Confidence Coach LLC 04:46 Transformative Coaching Stories 05:55 Impactful Work in Africa 11:39 The Philosophy Behind Scott's Coaching 16:51 Client Success Stories and Long-Term Relationships 22:04 Scott's Unique Approach and Background 24:13 The Value of Life Experience 25:10 Embracing AI in Business 27:00 The Human Element in AI 31:57 Faith and Purpose in Work 36:02 Future Plans and Goals 42:33 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

  6. 12/22/2025 ·  Video

    Mastering the Art of Communication with Laurie Brown

    When we think about communication, often it's just about talking.  But Laurie Brown, a global communication strategist, unveils how communication can transform careers and businesses.  Laurie shares her journey from acting in training films to becoming a communication expert working with Fortune 500 companies and small businesses globally.  She delves into her 'Chameleon Communication' approach, her transition during COVID-19, and the impact of AI on communication.  Laurie also discusses the evolving customer service landscape, the significance of effective listening, and the challenges of modern-day communication.  Whether you're a business leader, a technical expert, or a parent, this episode is full of actionable insights on enhancing your communication skills.  Tune in to discover how Laurie helps professionals adapt and excel in any situation. Connect with Laurie: Website: https://lauriebrown.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebrowncommunicationexpert/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lauriebrowncommunications/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Laurie Brown: Communication Expert 00:59 Laurie's Acting Background 02:07 Transition to Communication Training 05:31 The Evolution of Customer Service 09:27 The Human Element in Communication 16:27 Using AI to Enhance Communication 19:12 Adapting to the Digital Age 22:41 Interactive Training Experience 23:49 Incorporating AI in Training 25:30 Measuring Success and Future Goals 26:28 The Five Cs of Communication 27:16 Compassionate Communication at Scale 30:42 Parenting and Communication 36:31 Changes in Communication Post-COVID 42:59 Conclusion and Contact Information

  7. 12/19/2025 ·  Video

    Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Lessons from Bill Benjamin

    Thriving Under Pressure: Bill Benjamin's Journey from Tech VP to Leadership Expert Join us in this episode as we welcome Bill Benjamin, partner at the Institute for Health and Human Potential and co-author of the New York Times bestseller, 'Performing Under Pressure.'  Bill shares insights from his 25+ years helping organizations like NASA, the US Marines, and Goldman Sachs transform pressure into a competitive advantage.  Discover Bill's transition from a mathematics and computer science background to focusing on emotional intelligence and leadership.  Learn how his neuroscience-based approach has helped companies like Intel and Coca-Cola improve team performance and reduce turnover.  Bill also discusses the importance of both connection and courage in high-performing cultures and the concept of navigating 'the last 8%' of challenging conversations.  Tune in for actionable strategies to handle high-stakes moments and drive success both in the workplace and at home. Connect with Bill: Website: https://ihhp.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-benjamin-12b671/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihhpglobal/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Bill Benjamin and His Work 01:14 Bill's Personal Journey and Career Shift 02:20 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence 04:09 High Performing Cultures: Connection and Courage 05:40 The Last 8%: Tackling Difficult Conversations 07:46 Applying Emotional Intelligence Beyond Work 10:06 Case Study: Blue Cross of Idaho 11:59 Sustaining Business Growth and Relevance 13:11 AI in Healthcare: A Case Study with Mercy Health 16:34 The Human Resistance to Change 16:55 Automating Tasks for Efficiency 17:51 The Last 8% Moments 19:59 Using AI in Different Departments 23:06 Preparing for a New Book Launch 26:55 Challenges and Strategies for 2026 30:05 Connecting and Learning More

  8. 12/17/2025 ·  Video

    Transforming Financial Chaos with Tuesday P. Brooks

    Transforming Financial Chaos to Strategic Success with Tuesday Brooks | Untrapped Join us in this episode of Untrapped as we delve into the inspiring journey of Tuesday Brooks, a US Army veteran, financial consultant, and founder of AJOY Management.  From her military service to advanced degrees at Columbia and NYU, and becoming a Goldman Sachs business advisor, Tuesday has truly lived the transformation she teaches.  Learn about her 'pretty financials' approach to bookkeeping that empowers women-led businesses.  Discover how Tuesday balances marketing, business development, and personal time while navigating the impacts of AI on her firm.  Whether you're a small business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Connect with Tuesday: Website: https://www.ajoymanagement.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuesdaybrooks/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajoyworldwide/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/   Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Tuesday Brooks: Transforming Financial Chaos into Success 01:01 Introduction to AJOY Management 01:35 Tuesday's Role in AJOY Management 02:13 Marketing and Business Development Strategies 04:46 Challenges in Marketing and Client Acquisition 10:16 The Impact of AI on Business Operations 15:22 The Rise of New Tools 15:56 Exploring Claude: A New LLM Tool 16:37 Year-End Reflections and Future Goals 18:03 Measuring Business Success 21:08 Challenges and Frustrations 22:14 The Importance of Financial Management 26:03 Handling New Clients 27:45 Where to Find Us

About

You built a successful coaching business to create freedom, but somewhere along the way, success became your prison. You're making great money but working insane hours. You have clients but no life. You created a business that was supposed to serve you, but now you serve it completely. The alarm goes off at 5 AM. You check emails before your feet hit the floor. Your calendar owns your soul. Your phone buzzes with "urgent" requests that aren't really urgent. You haven't taken a real vacation in years because "the business can't run without you." You tell yourself this is temporary. That once you hit the next revenue milestone, you'll slow down. But the goalposts keep moving, and the trap gets tighter. Here's what nobody tells you: The problem isn't your revenue. It's your business model. You don't need to work harder. You don't need more clients. You don't need another marketing strategy. You need to get untrapped. This isn't about working less and making less. It's about working smarter and living more. It's about building systems that serve you instead of enslaving you. It's about remembering that business is supposed to enhance your life, not consume it. Freedom isn't the reward for success. Freedom IS success. Welcome to Untrapped - where we build lives beyond business.