Finding Your Inspiration

Jill Van Balen
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  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. FEB 11

    #110 | When Life Gets Heavy, You Keep Going: Ralph Bracco's Story

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, host Paul Tully sits down with longtime friend Ralph Bracco for a real, honest conversation about family, loss, and what it means to keep going when life gets heavy. As two old friends catching up, Ralph opens up about caring for his parents, losing them, and how that experience reshaped his perspective on success, gratitude, and purpose. He also reflects on life as a working actor — staying consistent, grounded, and committed to the dream while never losing sight of what matters most. This episode is about perseverance in its truest form. Choosing family. Carrying lessons forward. And showing up — even when the weight feels heavy. 🎧 New episodes of Finding Your Inspiration drop every Monday. 📺 Subscribe for more stories about resilience, purpose, and real life. Ralph's Links 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ralphbracco/  🌐Portfolio: https://www.ralphbracco.com/ Finding Your Inspiration Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast  Hope Through Housing Foundation 🌐 https://hthf.org/  📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing  National CORE 🌐 https://nationalcore.org  📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore

    23 min

  2. FEB 5

    #109 | She Turned Life's Challenges into Strength: Theresa Farrell

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Theresa Farrell to talk about resilience, self-belief, and what it really means to keep going—especially when life doesn't unfold the way you expected. Theresa's story is one of growth shaped by challenge. From navigating difficult moments early on to learning how to stand confidently in who she is today, her journey is a powerful reminder that strength isn't about avoiding hardship—it's about how you respond to it. But this conversation goes deeper than the past. This episode is about strength, perspective, and progress—about being still standing, and still smiling, no matter what season of life you're in. 🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation Watch if you're interested in stories that remind you, you're capable of more than you think Theresa's Links T Time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llonuCeA8_M&list=PLKQ2cCvRFXN3bnjksGNaMIOZ2KtbjHExZ  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresa.c.farrell?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==  Finding Your Inspiration Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/  🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast  Hope Through Housing Foundation 🌐 https://hthf.org/  📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing  National CORE  🌐 https://nationalcore.org  📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore  🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    25 min

  3. JAN 27

    #108 | NFL Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson: Legacy Beyond the Game

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Eric Dickerson — NFL Hall of Famer, Rams legend, philanthropist, and entrepreneur — to talk about legacy, purpose, and what it means to make an impact far beyond the game of football. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1983, Eric didn't just enter the NFL — he changed it. With 13,259 career rushing yards (8th all-time) and the NFL single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, a mark set in 1984 that still stands today, his on-field dominance is undeniable. But this conversation goes deeper than stats and highlights. Eric opens up about life after the NFL, the responsibility that comes with influence, and why giving back has become just as important as winning ever was. Through the ED29 Foundation, Eric is focused on creating access, opportunity, and education for underserved youth — including the opening of the Eric Dickerson Learning Center in Texas through a partnership with Hope Through Housing. This episode is about legacy — not just what you accomplish, but what you leave behind.   🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation Watch if you're interested in leadership, life after success, athlete impact, or building something meaningful that lasts. ====================================================== Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 02:30 – Growing up & early influences 06:45 – Being drafted by the Rams in 1983 10:30 – Breaking records & the historic 1984 season 15:40 – Pressure, expectations & performing at the highest level 20:50 – Life after football & redefining success 25:10 – Giving back through the ED29 Foundation 29:30 – Education, mentorship & the Learning Center 32:45 – Final reflections & legacy   Eric Dickerson's Links 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericdickerson29/ 🏌️ Eric Dickerson Charity Golf Tournament (Hope Through Housing): https://hthf.org/news-and-events/eric-dickerson-golf-tournament/   Hope Through Housing Foundation 🌐 https://hthf.org/ 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing   National CORE 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore   FYI's Socials 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast   🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    33 min

  4. JAN 26

    #106 | Transformation Doesn't Happen Overnight: Aram Ramirez on Film Directing & Entrepreneurship

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Aram Ramirez to talk about navigating uncertainty, staying grounded when life feels heavy, and what it really takes to keep moving forward when the next step isn't clear. Aram shares how seasons of doubt, responsibility, and internal pressure shaped his outlook — and how learning to trust himself became the turning point. Through reflection and honesty, he opens up about choosing growth over comfort and showing up even when progress feels slow or unseen. His story is a reminder that transformation doesn't happen overnight. It happens through small decisions, quiet resilience, and the courage to keep going — even when fear is loud and certainty feels far away. This conversation is about perseverance, self-belief, and choosing to show up for your future self — especially when the road ahead feels uncertain. 🎬Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation Watch if you're in a season of change, doubt, or personal growth. ====================================================== Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 03:15 – Aram's early challenges 08:50 – Carrying responsibility through uncertainty 14:30 – When doubt started to creep in 20:10 – Choosing growth over comfort 26:45 – Learning to trust yourself 32:30 – Small decisions that changed everything 38:20 – Staying resilient when progress feels slow 44:30 – Final reflections & inspiration Aram's Links 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/super7productions/ 🌐 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@storyshortsyt/shorts National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing FYI Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast 🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    55 min

  5. JAN 5

    #105 | What Happens When You Stop Playing It Safe W/ Kandice Gonzalez

    In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Kandice Gonzalez to talk about navigating uncertainty, trusting yourself when the path isn't clear, and what it really takes to keep going when things feel heavy.   As an actor chasing her dreams while also caring for her brother who has Down syndrome, Kandice shares how responsibility, love, and resilience have shaped her perspective — and how stepping into a new year became an opportunity to choose growth over comfort.   Her story is a reminder that transformation doesn't happen overnight. It happens through small decisions, quiet strength, and the courage to keep moving forward even when fear is loud.   This conversation is about new beginnings, self-belief, and choosing to show up for your future self — especially when the next chapter feels uncertain. 🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions 💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation Watch if you're entering a new year in a season of change, doubt, or growth. ====================================================== Kandice's Links 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandicefabulous/ 🌐https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13911873/ National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing 🌐 https://dellenawinery.com/ 📸 https://www.instagram.com/dellenawinery/ FYI Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast 🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    44 min

  6. 12/09/2025

    #103 | Portraying Lenny Bruce: The Play That Changed Ronnie Marmo's Life

    In this episode of *Finding Your Inspiration*, Ronnie Marmo opens up about the realities behind the craft — the struggle, the discipline, the honesty, and the purpose that drives an artist forward. Ronnie, known for his powerful one-man show on Lenny Bruce, talks about: * What inspired him to bring Lenny's story to life * Why authenticity is everything for an actor * His own battles, setbacks, and breakthroughs * The discipline and resilience required to stay in the game * How storytelling becomes healing — for both the artist and the audience   Ronnie's Links   🕒 CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening & Introduction 02:00 – Why Lenny Bruce? 06:00 – Writing the One-Man Show 10:00 – The Struggle, Addiction & Purpose 15:00 – The Power of Honest Storytelling 20:00 – The Reality of Being a Working Actor 25:00 – Discipline, Craft & Staying the Course 30:00 – What Success Actually Looks Like 35:00 – Final Reflections & Inspiration ––––– The FYI Podcast is dedicated to storytelling that uplifts communities and preserves the history that shapes us. Produced by National CORE and Hope Through Housing. National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing 🌐 https://dellenawinery.com/ 📸 https://www.instagram.com/dellenawinery/   FYI Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast   🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    41 min

  7. 11/25/2025

    #102 | The Story Behind the D'Ellena Winery (In Memory of Claude Ellena)

    This episode was filmed on September 29, 2025, just weeks before Claude's passing. We are deeply honored to share his story — his family's incredible journey, the history behind the D'Ellena winery, and the legacy that shaped generations. Claude welcomed us into a world built on grit, craftsmanship, and heart. As National CORE becomes the new steward of this historic land, we remain committed to preserving the D'Ellena legacy and everything it represents. Thank you, Claude, for trusting us with your story. Your family's legacy will continue to inspire everyone who steps foot on the property. ––––– The FYI Podcast is dedicated to storytelling that uplifts communities and preserves the history that shapes us. Produced by National CORE and Hope Through Housing. National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing 🌐 https://dellenawinery.com/ 📸 https://www.instagram.com/dellenawinery/ FYI Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast 🎧 New episodes every Monday 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this today 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring story

    46 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    #101 | Johnny Canizzaro on Pursuing His Acting Dream and Portraying Steven Van Zandt

    Johnny Canizzaro shares how he pursued his acting dream, the defining moments that shaped his journey, and the incredible opportunity to portray Steven Van Zandt in the new Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere.  Before stepping into an iconic role, Johnny had to understand who he was becoming — as an artist and as a man. In this episode, he opens up about the moments of doubt, the discipline behind the craft, and the identity work required to transform into someone as legendary as Van Zandt. This conversation is about chasing the dream, staying ready, and stepping into a once-in-a-lifetime role when the moment finally arrives. Johnny's Links 🌐https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0134137/ 📸https://www.instagram.com/johnnycannizzaro/ 📸https://www.facebook.com/JohnnyCannizzaro/ National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org  📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore 📘 https://facebook.com/hopethroughhousing FYI Podcast 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration/  🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fyipodcast

    48 min
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jill Van Balen
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Finding Your Inspiration