The Small Victories Podcast

Pauline Victoria

Our greatness within is made up of a series of small victories on this journey called life. Each episode will awaken your potential, purpose and power as you discover your own greatness.

  1. 6d ago

    The Truth About Trauma with Michael Stone

    What if trauma isn’t something to eliminate—but something to understand? In this deeply reflective episode of The Small Victories Podcast, Pauline Victoria sits down with Michael Stone, author of Traumatized: A Love Story, for a profound conversation about trauma, healing, and the path back to wholeness. Michael’s life story is one marked by unimaginable adversity—from discovering his mother after her suicide as a young child to living for over 40 years under the shadow of being falsely accused of his wife’s murder before DNA evidence finally revealed the truth. Yet rather than allowing trauma to define him, Michael has spent decades transforming his experiences into wisdom and healing work that supports others. Together, Pauline and Michael explore a powerful perspective: trauma is not evidence that we are broken—it is a protective intelligence within the nervous system that once helped us survive. The real healing begins when we stop trying to outrun pain and instead learn to meet it with presence, curiosity, and compassion. This conversation moves beyond traditional self-help ideas and into a deeper understanding of trauma as something that lives in the body, shapes our relationships, and connects us not only to our personal history but also to ancestral and collective experiences. If you’ve ever wondered how to move from survival to true connection—with yourself, with others, and with life itself—this episode offers insights that may shift the way you see healing forever. Key Takeaways Trauma isn’t what happened to you—it’s what happened inside you when the event occurred. Understanding this distinction gives you access to healing rather than feeling trapped by the past. Trauma is not a sign of brokenness—it is a protective intelligence within the nervous system designed to help us survive overwhelming experiences. Healing trauma requires feeling it in the body, not just understanding it intellectually. Awareness and somatic presence allow previously suppressed experiences to integrate. Many of our life paths, careers, and identities are shaped by how we adapted to early trauma. Recognizing these patterns can transform unconscious survival strategies into conscious choices. Healing is not only personal—it is ancestral and collective. When we integrate our trauma, we help heal family patterns, future generations, and the wider human community. True healing happens in relationship. Because many wounds were formed in connection with others, they are often best healed within supportive and safe relationships. Increasing our capacity to “hold life” is the real measure of healing. Integration allows us to respond to life with greater presence, compassion, and freedom rather than reacting from old wounds. Reflection Questions What sensations, emotions, or tensions in your body might be asking for your attention rather than your avoidance? How might your personal healing ripple outward—to your relationships, your family, and the communities you’re part of? About the Guest Michael Stone is a spiritual author, mentor, shamanic practitioner, radio host, producer, and trauma integration facilitator who co-creates individual and group environments and experiences that support people in transcending the myth of separation to experience deep interconnection with others and all of life. Through his work, Michael helps people integrate trauma, reconnect with their bodies, and rediscover the deeper intelligence within their experiences—supporting personal, ancestral, and collective healing. Connect with Michael Stone Website:http://www.WellofLight.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstone-quantumconsultinggroup/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585558712181 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/welloflight/

  2. Jul 7

    Gripping Grace in Grief with Marcia Earhart

    What if grief isn't something you have to "get over," but something you can learn to carry with hope? In this deeply moving episode of The Small Victories Podcast, Pauline Victoria sits down with Marcia Earhart, a certified life, trauma, grief, brain, and mental health coach whose life was forever changed by the loss of two sons—one in a tragic accident and another through an act of violence. Rather than allowing grief to define her, Marcia chose to let it refine her. Through raw vulnerability, profound faith, and hard-earned wisdom, Marcia shares how she navigated unimaginable loss, supported her family through different grieving styles, and discovered that healing isn't about letting go of those we love—it's about learning how to carry them forward in new ways. Together, Pauline and Marcia explore grief, forgiveness, faith, boundaries, trauma, and the powerful truth that even in our darkest valleys, hope is still available. Whether your loss is recent or decades old, this conversation offers compassion, perspective, and practical insights for anyone seeking to breathe again, move again, and live again. This episode is based on Marcia's powerful story and teachings shared throughout the conversation. Key Takeaways Grief doesn't have to define your life—it can refine and redefine who you become. Healing begins when you stop trying to "move on" and start learning how to carry your loved one forward in meaningful ways. Every person grieves differently. Honoring different grieving styles can strengthen relationships instead of fracturing them. Healthy boundaries are not selfish; they create the space needed for healing, rest, and emotional resilience. The question "Where are you on a scale of 1-5 today?" often creates deeper connection than simply asking, "How are you?" Pain doesn't mean you're broken. Sometimes life breaks us open so growth, healing, and transformation can emerge. Forgiveness is not excusing what happened—it is choosing not to allow bitterness to consume your future. Grief often exposes the beliefs we hold about God, suffering, and control. Healing can begin when we examine those beliefs honestly. You are not responsible for outcomes you could never control. Releasing "should have," "could have," and "would have" thinking creates freedom. Hope is not the absence of grief. Hope is choosing to keep breathing, moving, and living while grief remains part of your story. Reflection Questions What loss, pain, or grief might you still be carrying alone that could benefit from support, community, or a safe space to heal? What would change in your life if you viewed grief not as something to overcome, but as something that could refine and reshape you into who you're becoming? About Marcia Earhart Marcia Earhart is a certified life, trauma, grief, brain, and mental health coach, mediator, author, and HeartSync minister. Having navigated the deaths of two sons within the last eleven years—one tragically murdered—she now helps others find healing, hope, and restoration in the midst of profound loss. She is the co-founder of the Sterling Rose Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families release trauma and pain so they can breathe again, move again, and live again. Connect with Marcia 🌐 Website: www.thesterlingrosesanctuary.us 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSRS21 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesterlingrosesanctuary/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcia-earhart-the-sterling-rose-sanctuary-943a8410b/ 📖 Book: Gripping Grace in the Garden of Grief: A Place for the Hearthttps://a.co/d/3Gy550K Listener Invitation If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who may be carrying grief and needs a reminder that healing is possible. Remember: you are not broken—you are becoming. One small victory at a time, hope can return, life can move forward, and victory can begin again.

  3. Jun 23

    Profit & Purpose with Sober Living with Jim Boad

    What if one of the most overlooked solutions to addiction recovery was also one of the most meaningful ways to build a purpose-driven business? In this episode of The Small Victories Podcast, Pauline Victoria sits down with Jim Boad, co-founder of Group Home Accelerator, to explore the powerful intersection of impact and entrepreneurship through sober living homes. Jim shares how growing up around alcoholism and nearly losing everything during the COVID pandemic led him to discover a model that helps people rebuild their lives while creating sustainable income. Today, he has helped launch more than 14 sober living homes—with many more on the way—providing structured, supportive environments for people committed to staying sober. This conversation sheds light on the critical role sober living homes play in the recovery journey, the realities of running these homes responsibly, and how mission-driven entrepreneurs can create both financial stability and life-changing impact. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to combine purpose, compassion, and entrepreneurship, this episode will challenge how you think about opportunity. Key Takeaways Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does—many people need structured environments to help them stay sober after rehab. Purpose-driven businesses thrive when mission comes before money; the impact you create often fuels sustainable success. Fear of starting something new often comes down to simple actions we avoid—sometimes the most powerful step is just picking up the phone. Structure, accountability, and clear boundaries can be acts of compassion that protect the well-being of everyone involved. The most meaningful businesses are built when purpose and practical systems work together. Setbacks and crises—like the financial uncertainty many experienced during COVID—can become the doorway to discovering a deeper calling. Communities are more likely to support recovery homes when they see professionalism, clear rules, and genuine care for both residents and neighbors. Reflection Questions Where in your life might purpose and practicality be waiting to come together in a new way? What fear might be holding you back from taking the first simple step toward something meaningful? Connect with Jim Boad Learn more about Jim’s work and the Group Home Accelerator program: 🌐 https://grouphomeaccelerator.com/ 🌐 http://www.jimboad.com/

  4. Jun 16

    Secrets to Real Confidence with Clarissa Burt

    What if the popular mantra “I am enough” is actually setting the bar too low? In this powerful conversation, Pauline Victoria sits down with Clarissa Burt, internationally recognized media personality and author of The Self-Esteem Regime, to unpack what real self-esteem actually requires — and why it’s built through daily choices, not feel-good slogans. Clarissa shares why comparison is one of the biggest confidence killers, how to recognize the hidden signs of low self-esteem, and what it really means to live with integrity, loyalty, and authentic human connection in today’s digital world. If you’ve ever caught yourself shrinking, apologizing for your existence, or feeling disconnected despite being constantly online, this episode offers both perspective and practical next steps. Her book The Self-Esteem Regime provides a concrete, step-by-step framework designed to help readers build lasting confidence and self-awareness. This is your invitation to stop comparing… start doing the work… and step more fully into the person you’re becoming. Key Takeaways “I am enough” may be too small a target. Expanding your identity beyond “enough” shifts you from survival thinking into growth and possibility. Comparison distorts reality. What you see online is often curated perception — tending your own “lawn” creates more progress than watching someone else’s. Self-esteem is built through practice, not positive thinking alone. Real confidence grows from consistent inner work, reflection, and aligned action. Your value system is your personal blueprint. When you clearly define your core values, decisions and relationships become easier to navigate. Low self-esteem often hides in everyday behaviors. Chronic apologizing, gossip, or needing to diminish others can signal deeper self-worth work to be done. Genuine human connection is an antidote to digital isolation. Getting off devices and into real-world interaction helps regulate confidence and belonging. Courage comes before confidence. Trust in yourself grows each time you take brave action — even when it feels awkward at first. Reflection Questions Where in your life might you be settling for “enough” instead of stepping into who you’re truly capable of becoming? What is one small action you can take this week to strengthen real-world connection instead of staying in digital comparison? Connect with Clarissa Burt Website: http://www.clarissaburt.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ClarissaBurtOfficial, https://www.facebook.com/ClarissaBurtInternational LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/clarissaburt X: https://www.twitter.com/clarissaburt Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/clarissaburt Instagram: http://instagram.com/clarissaburt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clarissaburtofficial

  5. Jun 9

    The Power of Permission with Patty Aubery

    What if the only permission you’ve been waiting for… is your own? In this empowering episode of The Small Victories Podcast, Pauline Victoria sits down with Patty Aubery — powerhouse coach, best-selling author, speaker, and the visionary behind helping thousands of women stop playing small and start showing up boldly. From helping build the billion-dollar Chicken Soup for the Soul brand to creating her transformational Permission Granted movement, Patty shares the truth about confidence, visibility, and stepping into the life you know you’re meant for.  Together, Pauline and Patty unpack the fears that keep people hidden, why success often requires discomfort, and how to stop waiting for invitations and start creating your own opportunities. If you’ve ever doubted your voice, hesitated to share your message, or felt called to something bigger, this conversation is your wake-up call. Key Takeaways Confidence is not something you wait for — it is built through courageous action. Many people hide behind busyness, service, or perfectionism instead of taking the next brave step. The fear of being seen is often ego trying to keep you safe, not truth trying to guide you. Your network, community, and cheerleaders can become the “bumpers” that keep you moving forward. Visibility grows when you integrate all parts of yourself instead of separating your personal and professional life. You don’t need someone else to choose you — you can choose yourself today. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself, grow, heal, and become the fullest version of who you are. Reflection Questions Where in your life are you waiting for someone else’s permission instead of granting it to yourself? What brave action could you take this week that would help you become more visible in your purpose? Connect with Patty Aubery 🌐 Website: http://pattyaubery.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pattyaubery/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patty-aubery-a19869b/

  6. Jun 2

    How Transitions Become Transformations with Angie Lion

    In this episode of Small Victories, host Pauline Victoria sits down with Angie Lion, author of Emerge: Rise From the Depths, Realign Your Soul, Reclaim What Matters, to explore how we can meet life’s transitions with strength, wisdom, and grace. Angie pulls from her own journey—raised amidst trauma, walking through deep loss, divorce, and the unraveling of identity—to show us what it looks like to emerge from the mud stronger, more aligned, and more resilient. Key Takeaways Transitions refine you more than they break you. The endings we detest often become the soil in which a new life grows. Transitional Intelligence can be cultivated. Just like emotional intelligence, navigating change skillfully is a learnable capacity rooted in awareness, adaptability, and resilience. You already are enough—even while becoming. Growth doesn’t begin from lack; it begins from remembering your inherent worth and meeting your fears with curiosity. Obstacles are invitations, not punishments. When we turn toward challenge rather than resist it, we surface purpose, creativity, and hidden capacity. Stagnation signals an invitation, not a verdict. Feeling stuck is not proof of failure—it’s evidence that something deeper is trying to be born. You don’t heal in isolation. Asking for help, naming your fears, and connecting with guides or community is how you move from survival to mastery. Whether you're in the middle of a painful transition or bracing yourself for one ahead, this conversation offers you a map and a companion to walk with you as you emerge. Reflection Questions Which transition in your life has felt most “stuck,” and what is one internal shift (e.g. reframing, asking for help, releasing a script) you can begin today to move through it? When you look back on a difficult season you survived, what strengths or wisdom were born out of it that you now carry—and how could you intentionally lean into those as you move forward? Angie Lion – Contact & Follow LinkedIn: Angie Lion https://www.linkedin.com/in/angielion?utm_source=chatgpt.com  Website: https://www.angielion.com/podcast-1?utm_source=chatgpt.com (for her book, coaching, speaking)

  7. May 26

    Testimonials That Convert with Tommi Murshed-Parish

    What if you didn’t have to convince people to buy from you—because your clients already did it for you? In this episode of The Small Victories Podcast, Pauline Victoria sits down with Tommi Murshed-Parish, founder of Conversions for Coaches, to explore how genuine video testimonials can become one of the most powerful—and ethical—growth tools in a coach’s business. Tommi shares why authenticity always outperforms polish, how deep listening unlocks stories that truly resonate, and why the best testimonials don’t feel like sales pitches at all. Drawing from his personal journey, professional filmmaking background, and years of helping coaches convert clients without pressure, Tommi reframes testimonials as relationship builders, not marketing assets. This conversation is a must-listen for coaches, speakers, consultants, and service-based entrepreneurs who want their impact to be felt before the sales call—and their results to speak louder than their words. Key Takeaways Testimonials don’t work because you have them—they work because of what’s actually said. Quality, emotion, and believability matter more than polish. A powerful video testimonial is like a movie trailer, not the whole film. Its job is to spark curiosity and trust, not explain everything. People connect to humans, not scripts. The more natural, imperfect, and real someone sounds, the more relatable—and persuasive—the testimonial becomes. Being interviewed creates better testimonials than self-recording. Live conversation reduces nerves, uncovers deeper layers, and captures emotional truth. Long-term testimonials are often more powerful than immediate ones. The real impact of your work compounds over time—and that’s where the strongest stories live. How you ask for feedback determines what you receive. Removing the word “testimonial” and leading with vulnerability invites honesty instead of performance. Testimonials are a byproduct of relationships. Coaches who nurture real connections get more referrals, better feedback, and stronger social proof. Reflection Questions Where in your business are you still trying to sell harder instead of letting real client stories build trust for you? Which past or long-term clients might now be able to reflect on the deeper, lasting impact of your work? Guest Contact Information Tommi Murshed-ParishFounder, Conversions for Coaches 🌐 Website: https://conversionsforcoaches.com/ This episode is a powerful reminder that truth sells where polish fails. When you lead with honesty, listen deeply, and let real stories rise to the surface, trust forms naturally—and that’s where sustainable, victorious growth begins.

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Our greatness within is made up of a series of small victories on this journey called life. Each episode will awaken your potential, purpose and power as you discover your own greatness.