Shift Out Loud with Tracy Spears

Tracy Spears

Hosted by Tracy Spears, speaker, co-author of two best selling leadership books, founder of The Leader Lab, coach, and head cheerleader for anyone trying to play bigger. Shift Out Loud is a podcast designed to inspire you to play bigger. You'll hear from real live people sharing what their shift was, when it happened, and why it was out loud. What you think is true, and when you move from the external locus of control to the internal locus of control, your shift can happen and anything becomes possible. This podcast is your invitation to listen to others who have made the shift, and also serve as a catalyst for you to play bigger.

  1. 4 HR AGO

    The Case of April Wilkens and SB 1835 with Tracey Lyall & Colleen McCarty

    Send us a text I have not one, but two incredible guests for this timely and important episode of Shift Out Loud. We’ll be exploring the case of domestic violence survivor April Wilkens, who was recently denied a shortened sentence for a crime directly related to her abuse: the murder of her long-time rapist and abuser. Tracey Lyall is the CEO of Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS) in Tulsa and a Licensed Social Worker with years of direct service and advocacy for victims of DV and sexual assault. Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice co-founder Colleen McCarty has been a key advocate in pushing for survivor justice reform through the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act (SB 1835), which passed the OK Senate 46-0 and the OK House 86-4. In this impactful conversation, Tracey and Colleen discuss why SB 1835 is vital legislation for Oklahomans, how it compares to similar measures enacted in other states, and why April Wilkins should be granted relief and be reunited with her family. Listen now to discover: The details of April’s horrific story and the current status of her legal case Why April’s denial was so shocking and what you can do to help support her causeThe potential impact of SB 1835 on Oklahoma’s incarcerated womenGuest bios: Tracey Lyall is a Licensed Social Worker and the CEO of DVIS in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In 2013, along with the board of directors, she led the organization’s $24 million capital campaign to build a new shelter, transitional housing, and counseling office. She has worked in the areas of poverty, DV, crisis intervention, and mental health. Attorney Colleen McCarty has served as Policy Counsel and Deputy Director of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform. She is the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice and was instrumental in passing medical parole reform in 2020 (SB 320).  Timestamps: 01:51  Intro 03:56  Meet Tracey Lyall & Colleen McCarty 07:00  Passing SB 1835 09:16  Oklahoma Appleseed & SB 1835’s strengths 14:33  DV stats, stigma & retaliation 20:27  April’s case 31:12  Colleen’s work 34:00  Tracey’s reaction 36:13  Support for April 41:46  Current actions & influences 45:14  Colleen’s final thoughts Links: okappleseed.org  dvis.org  panicbuttonpodcast.com  — Connect with me: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracylspears  Facebook: facebook.com/TracySpearsSpeaker  Twitter: @tracylspears  Instagram: @tracylspears Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: exceptionalleaderslab.com  Visit my resource library: tracyspears.com/blog Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Visit tracyspears.com  Podcast support: theultimatecreative.com  copymagic.agency If you love the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review — this will help others discover how to play a bigger game! Watch these episodes on Youtube! Make sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications, so you never miss an episode!

    52 min

  2. 7 OCT

    Shifting Out of Secrecy & Living Loudly with Nancy Gunter

    Send us a text For many people in my generation, living loudly and openly was a shift that could feel almost too big. In this episode of Shift Out Loud, I sit down with Nancy Gunter, the CEO of Gunter Training and an expert in helping workplaces manage clashes between employees of different generations, to talk about shifting out of secrecy.  In this conversation, Nancy and I discuss the intense challenges she experienced coming to terms with her sexuality in the 1980s and 1990s, the small but loud shifts that led her to live more openly in a slowly-changing world, and how she’s nurtured a beautiful 32-year relationship with her partner. We also talk about her incredible professional shifts, and how she uncovered her deep passion for designing and delivering trainings. Ready to play bigger? Listen now to discover:  How a decades-old rumour about Nancy’s brother helped her come out to her parents in her 40sThe big generational differences that underlie current workplace tensionsHow Positive Intelligence training changed Nancy’s life and sparked a career shiftGuest bio: Nancy is the CEO of Gunter Training and specializes in Positive Mental Fitness, Emotional Intelligence, and Generational Consulting. She has a Master’s Degree with an emphasis in Generational Studies and is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, a Positive Intelligence Coach, and a Speaker/Trainer. She enjoys all types of sports and participates in sprint, Olympic, and Half Ironman triathlons.  Timestamps: 01:41  Intro 02:39  Meet Nancy Gunter 04:13  Shift to extroversion 08:56  Discovering her sexuality 13:13  Shift to self-acceptance 17:51  Shift to training 21:47  Shift to living more openly 27:42  Coming out to family 35:20  Generational consulting 38:04  Baby boomers, work ethic & tech  42:29  Triathlons 45:44  Shift to PQ coaching 52:07  Next shift Links: Nancy Gunter guntertraining.com  — Connect with me: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracylspears  Facebook: facebook.com/TracySpearsSpeaker  Twitter: @tracylspears  Instagram: @tracylspears  Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: exceptionalleaderslab.com  Visit my resource library: tracyspears.com/blog Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Visit tracyspears.com  Podcast support: theultimatecreative.com  copymagic.agency  If you love the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review — this will help others discover how to play a bigger game!  Watch these episodes on Youtube! Make sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications, so you never miss an episode!

    54 min

  3. 30 SEPT

    Helping Others Without Losing Yourself with Alison Anthony

    Send us a text Our biggest shifts sometimes elevate entire communities. My guest on this episode of Shift Out Loud has built an award-winning career around uplifting those who need it most. I’m joined by Alison Anthony, the President and CEO of the Tulsa Area United Way. Among her many recognitions, she’s been inducted into the Tulsa Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma State University Diversity Hall of Fame, and is the 2025 recipient of the Leadership Oklahoma Distinguished Graduate award.  Our conversation digs into Alison’s enduring passion for justice and inclusion, and the importance of meeting your own needs while helping others. Tune in as we explore her decision to play bigger in a way that aligned with her deeper values, her journey to grow as a leader while dealing with personal challenges, and the incredible bar fight story that reveals her hidden superhero side! Ready to play bigger? Listen now to discover:  How to set healthy boundaries and detach lovingly when helping others hurts youThe enormous impact of older women in our families and communities How Alison is shifting into a new chapter of reflection and self-expressionGuest bio: Alison Anthony serves as the President and CEO of the Tulsa Area United Way. A number of non-profit organizations are proud to name her as a member of their Boards of Directors, including the Tulsa Community Foundation and the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce. To all her roles, Alison brings a passion for inclusion, justice, innovation, and a belief that we can join our talents together to make our community a place where we can all flourish and thrive.  Timestamps: 01:57  Intro 03:58  Meet Alison Anthony 07:16  Growing up & over-helping 10:57  Fly fishing story 14:07  Ear biting story 18:55  Shift to corporate 22:37  So shall it be or better 28:52  Shift to United Way 30:42  Al-Anon & codependency 35:22  Setting boundaries 40:22  The ‘Shift Happens’ 60s 43:44  Next shift 47:59  Sharing a stage 49:08  Conclusion Links: Alison Anthony tauw.org/team_member/alison-anthony  tulsahistory.org/halloffame/alison-anthony  linkedin.com/in/alison-anthony-14a76a6  — Connect with me: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracylspears  Facebook: facebook.com/TracySpearsSpeaker  Twitter: @tracylspears  Instagram: @tracylspears Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: exceptionalleaderslab.com  Visit my resource library: tracyspears.com/blog Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Visit tracyspears.com  Podcast support: theultimatecreative.com  copymagic.agency  If you love the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review — this will help others discover how to play a bigger game!  Watch these episodes on Youtube! Make sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications, so you never miss an episode!

    51 min

  4. 23 SEPT

    Living Fully and Becoming Whole with Dr. Jennifer Clark

    Send us a text My guest for this episode of Shift Out Loud has spent much of her career exploring how we can make one of the most profound shifts imaginable: choosing to live a life for the things that matter most, without waiting for a crisis to occur. I’m joined once again by Dr. Jennifer K. Clark, whose book Suffer. is a fascinating reflection of her experiences in Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Dr. Clark challenges society’s definition of health and has shaped a new standard of innovative, community-based end-of-life care.  This episode is a powerful invitation to show up and truly see yourself. Listen in as we discuss the power of transpersonal experiences and the gift of mortality salience, and Dr. Clark shares how to honor the mind-body connection, find peace during times of stress, and recognize the modern markers of adulthood. Ready to play bigger? Listen now to discover:  How to reintegrate tough memories and become whole through shard workWhy we shouldn’t stop assessing developmental milestones after childhood How to get out of the anxiety spin cycle when meditation feels impossible  Guest bio: Dr. Jennifer Clark is the author of Suffer., a reflection of her nearly 25-year practice as an allopathic physician trained in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine. From the bedside to the boardroom and beyond, she has served to heal, educate, and innovate toward the relief of suffering and promotion of well-being. She volunteers as a medical liaison at Clarehouse and serves as a board member for the Omega Home Network. Timestamps: 01:55  Intro 03:37  Meet Dr. Jennifer Clark 06:14  Holding space 10:20  “Suffer well” 13:53  Developmental milestones & shame 15:59  Accepting the invitation 19:26  Taking a pause 23:00  Anxiety & dissociation 28:01  Memory, shard work, and life review 36:33  Self-identity & death experience 40:35  Mortality salience & grief 44:20  Internal voice & sense of self 51:23  Transpersonal experiences 59:12  New website   Links: Dr. Jennifer Clark thegiftofchoosing.com  Suffer.  Suffering, Well-Being, and the Redefinition of Health | TEDxUTulsa — Connect with me: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracylspears  Facebook: facebook.com/TracySpearsSpeaker  Twitter: @tracylspears  Instagram: @tracylspears  Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: exceptionalleaderslab.com  Visit my resource library: tracyspears.com/blog Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Visit tracyspears.com  Podcast support: theultimatecreative.com  copymagic.agency  If you love the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review — this will help others discover how to play a bigger game!  Watch these episodes on Youtube! Make sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications, so you never miss an episode

    1h 3m

  5. 16 SEPT

    Writing Truth With Total Honesty with Meg Myers Morgan

    Send us a text Playing bigger often means speaking up about things society would prefer to be left unsaid — and that often includes women’s experiences. Whether writing or speaking, bestselling author Meg Myers Morgan works to unravel the knots that form while being a woman navigating through everyday worries, meaningful working, and the relentless pursuit of self-worth.  In this episode of Shift Out Loud, I sit down with Meg to get an exclusive behind-the-curtain look at her incredible new novel, The Inconvenient Unraveling of Gemma Sinclair — and explore why she shifted to fiction after making a name for herself in the non-fiction world. Tune in as we discuss Meg’s fascinating writing process, the decisions that led to a unique and memorable book launch event, and the key to showing up authentically online. Ready to play bigger? Listen now to discover:  What inspired Meg to start playing bigger in the lit space - and how she turned rejection into motivationA behind-the-scenes look at the publishing process and the advice that made the differenceHow Meg assembled and leveraged a book launch team that turned a novel into a movementGuest bio: Meg Myers Morgan is a professor by title, teaching and mentoring graduate students into careers they love; a writer by dedication, using humor and heart to process modern life and work; and a keynote speaker, equipping audiences to reclaim their self-worth as the ultimate lesson...and plot twist. Timestamps: 01:00  Intro 02:58  Meet Meg Myers Morgan 03:46  Parenting 07:01  “It doesn’t matter” & TikTok 13:24  Shift to fiction 18:20  Shifting out loud 20:33  Publishing & reception 23:04  Meg’s launch team 28:08  Book launch event 36:59  About Gemma Sinclair 40:04  Biggest shifts 43:22  Dr. Fox & “trying something” 46:53  Writing from truth 50:42  Eddie & head-hopping 56:20  The Unravelers 58:59  Trailer Park University 1:00:23  Busy Philipps Links: Meg Myers Morgan megmyersmorgan.com  The Inconvenient Unraveling of Gemma Sinclair — Connect with me: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracylspears  Facebook: facebook.com/TracySpearsSpeaker  Twitter: @tracylspears  Instagram: @tracylspears  Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: exceptionalleaderslab.com  Visit my resource library: tracyspears.com/blog Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Visit tracyspears.com  Podcast support: theultimatecreative.com  copymagic.agency  If you love the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review — this will help others discover how to play a bigger game!  Watch these episodes on Youtube! Make sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications, so you never miss an episode!

    1h 9m

  6. 27 MAY

    Coaching with Curiosity & Purpose with Mina Brown

    Send us a text In this episode of Shift Out Loud, Tracy Spears sits down with master coach and corporate leader-turned-mentor Mina Brown to explore the powerful, personal, and far-reaching impact of coaching. From boardrooms to virtual training rooms, Mina’s journey is a testament to the deep change that’s possible when we shift from giving answers to asking the right questions. Together, they unpack what makes coaching so effective—including the science of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), the strategic use of metaphors and humor, and the art of creating safe spaces for real transformation. Mina shares how our environment shapes our beliefs, how the pandemic revolutionized coaching, and why curiosity, purpose, and values matter more than ever. Whether you’re a leader, a learner, or simply someone who wants to live more intentionally, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the power of conversation. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Coaching is not about answers—it’s about discovery.NLP can accelerate learning, growth, and transformation.Humor and metaphor help unlock deep insight and emotional resonance.Coaching is a partnership grounded in trust and respect.Leaders with coaching skills can radically impact culture and connection.Beliefs drive our behavior—challenging them drives change.Transitioning from corporate to coaching demands vulnerability and mindset shifts.The virtual coaching boom is here to stay—and it’s opening new doors.Everyone deserves a coach. The ripple effect is real.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Personal Journey 02:54 Transitioning from Corporate to Coaching 05:46 The Role of Neuro-Linguistic Programming in Coaching 08:42 Understanding Coaching vs. Consulting 11:47 The Importance of a Coaching Relationship 14:27 The Power of Metaphors and Humor in Coaching 24:57 The Power of Curiosity in Coaching 25:52 Challenging Limiting Beliefs 28:50 Understanding Values and Purpose 31:43 The Impact of Environment on Beliefs 33:48 Navigating Information in the Digital Age 36:26 The Evolution of Coaching During the Pandemic 39:32 The Value of Coaching Beyond Profession 42:24 The Multiplier Effect of Coaching 45:23 Connecting with Mina Brown Connect with Mina Website: www.positivecoach.com Connect with Tracy Instagram @tracylspears  TikTok @tracyspearsspeaker Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: www.theleaderlab.com Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Find more information at http://www.tracyspears.com For insights that will help you play bigger in your life, work, and community, visit my blog: https://tracyspears.com/blog-2/

    46 min

  7. 20 MAY

    When the Blueprint Changes with Dana Day

    Send us a text In this inspiring episode, Tracy sits down with Dana Day, a Tulsa-based custom home builder, remodeler, and HGTV alum. With a background in psychology and art, Dana shares how she carved a unique path into the male-dominated construction industry—and how creativity, grit, and heart have shaped both her work and her life.  Dana opens up about her experience as the only woman featured on HGTV’s Build It Forward, the realities of running a remodeling business, and the lessons she’s learned about setting expectations and maintaining accountability. But the conversation goes far deeper than blueprints and budgets. Dana reveals how devastating personal loss, financial setbacks, and moments of reinvention taught her the value of resilience, vulnerability, and the healing power of storytelling.  Together, Tracy and Dana explore how purpose can rise from pain—and how creativity and compassion can build more than just homes. Key Takeaways:  Resilience is something you build—like a house—one intentional step at a time.Vulnerability isn't weakness—it's a bridge to connection and healing.Women can (and do) thrive in male-dominated spaces, especially when they show up authentically.Realistic expectations are the foundation of any successful project—professional or personal.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dana Day 02:15 Dana's Journey into Building 05:02 Challenges in the Remodeling Industry 07:58 The HGTV Experience 10:40 Navigating a Male-Dominated Field 13:32 Personal Shifts and Life Challenges 25:05 Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Resilience 28:57 The Power of Perseverance and Stress Management 35:01 Creative Expression and Future Aspirations 35:53 The Impact of Vulnerability and Sharing Stories Connect with Dana www.danabuildanddesign.com Connect with Tracy Instagram @tracylspears  TikTok @tracyspearsspeaker Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: www.theleaderlab.com Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Find more information at http://www.tracyspears.com For insights that will help you play bigger in your life, work, and community, visit my blog: https://tracyspears.com/blog-2/

    42 min

  8. 13 MAY

    Cooking Without Recipes & Living Without Limits with Makenna Held

    Send us a text In this flavorful and fearless episode, Tracy Spears sits down with culinary entrepreneur Makenna Held, the powerhouse behind the Courageous Cooking School and the bold new platform Recipe Kick. Makenna opens up about her extraordinary leap of faith—buying Julia Child’s summer home, La Pitchoune, sight unseen—and the revolutionary path she’s carved in the world of food since.  From embracing recipe-free cooking to redefining the culinary classroom, Makenna shares how creativity, courage, and criticism have shaped her journey. She reveals the magic (and madness) behind running an immersive cooking school in the South of France, the challenges of building a sustainable food business, and the pressure of being tethered to Julia Child’s legacy.  Get ready for a refreshingly honest conversation about what it takes to cook, live, and lead on your own terms.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  Why Makenna bought Julia Child’s home without ever seeing itHow a movie (The Hundred-Foot Journey) inspired her life-altering move to FranceThe philosophy behind her recipe-free approach to cookingWhat it’s like to run a cooking school inside a culinary icon’s homeThe deeper meaning behind The Courageous Cooking SchoolHow Recipe Kick is shifting the future of food educationThe unexpected impact (and pitfalls) of fame and TV exposureWhy sustainable business models are essential How Makenna is building a legacy of culinary creativity and personal empowerment 00:00 Introduction to Makenna Held and La Pitchoune 02:52 The Journey to France and Buying Julia Child's Home 06:01 Risk-Taking and Culinary Aspirations 08:57 The Courageous Cooking School Experience 11:53 Immersive Culinary Experiences and Cooking Philosophy 14:51 Recipe-Free Cooking and Creativity 17:58 The Evolution of Recipe Kick 20:47 The Cookbook and Culinary Education 29:24 The Spirit of Julia Child 30:43 Sustainable Business Models in Culinary Education 31:51 The Journey to Television Stardom 32:49 Navigating Fame and Criticism 40:03 Future Aspirations and Business Shifts 47:04 Defining Legacy Beyond Julia Child 51:54 Looking Ahead: New Ventures and Opportunities   Connect with Makenna Instagram @makennaheld @recipekick.tv @lapeetchfr https://okay-perfect.com/ See Makenna on Tour: MakennaHeld.com Connect with Tracy Instagram @tracylspears  TikTok @tracyspearsspeaker Discover your tactical leadership toolkit: www.theleaderlab.com Interested in working with me or having me speak at your event? Find more information at http://www.tracyspears.com For insights that will help you play bigger in your life, work, and community, visit my blog: https://tracyspears.com/blog-2/

    49 min
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About

Hosted by Tracy Spears, speaker, co-author of two best selling leadership books, founder of The Leader Lab, coach, and head cheerleader for anyone trying to play bigger. Shift Out Loud is a podcast designed to inspire you to play bigger. You'll hear from real live people sharing what their shift was, when it happened, and why it was out loud. What you think is true, and when you move from the external locus of control to the internal locus of control, your shift can happen and anything becomes possible. This podcast is your invitation to listen to others who have made the shift, and also serve as a catalyst for you to play bigger.

Information

  • Creator
    Tracy Spears
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Shift Out Loud with Tracy Spears
  • Show Website
    Shift Out Loud with Tracy Spears

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