The Secrets of Being Podcast

Dawn Airhart Witte

Introducing the "Secrets of Being Podcast" - a captivating journey into the depths of self-discovery, personal growth, and the art of living a fulfilling life. In a world that often moves at breakneck speed, this podcast serves as a tranquil oasis for those seeking profound wisdom and inspiration. Here, we explore the innermost realms of the human experience, delving into the profound secrets that lie within each of us, waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we embark on a voyage of self-discovery, guided by remarkable thought leaders, spiritual luminaries, and everyday heroes who have unearthed the treasures of self-awareness. Our guests share their intimate stories, timeless wisdom, and practical insights, illuminating the path to a life of purpose and authenticity. Through thought-provoking conversations, soul-stirring narratives, and transformative teachings, "Secrets of Being" invites you to peel back the layers of societal expectations, shed the masks we wear, and embrace the beautiful authenticity that resides at our core. Discover the secrets to igniting your inner fire, releasing self-imposed limitations, and forging a deeper connection to your true self. This podcast is an empowering roadmap for those who are ready to redefine their lives, expand their horizons, and unlock the potential that has always been within reach. Each episode is a testament to the enduring human spirit, offering hope, inspiration, and the tools to navigate life's challenges with grace, resilience, and unwavering purpose. Our aim is to elevate your soul, inspire your heart, and equip you with the knowledge and motivation to create a life that aligns with your deepest desires. Join us on this transformative journey. Tune in to the "Secrets of Being Podcast" and let the mysteries of the human experience, the power of authenticity, and the magic of self-discovery awaken within you. It's time to embrace the secrets that will illuminate your path to an extraordinary life.

  1. 1d ago

    Why Animals Help Us Heal Better Than Words

    Can an animal change a life? After this conversation, I believe the answer is yes. In this inspiring episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome internationally recognized psychologist and pioneer in animal-assisted therapy Dr. Aubrey Fine alongside Sweden's leading expert in animal-assisted interventions Sara Karlberg for a fascinating conversation about the remarkable relationship between humans and animals—and why that connection has the power to transform lives. Dr. Fine shares the unexpected story of how a tiny gerbil named Sasha changed the trajectory of his entire career, leading him to become one of the world's foremost voices in animal-assisted therapy. Sara shares her own journey from a childhood spent longing to care for animals to becoming an international educator dedicated to advancing therapy dog standards while advocating for the welfare and consent of the animals who work beside us. Together, we explore the growing science behind the human-animal bond, including how interacting with animals can reduce stress, increase oxytocin, strengthen emotional connection, and support healing after trauma. Dr. Fine explains why therapy animals are far more than companions—they are carefully trained partners who help create trust, emotional safety, and meaningful therapeutic relationships. Sara shares groundbreaking research showing how therapy dogs can help students reconnect with school, build confidence, and develop healthier relationships with teachers and classmates. One of the most moving moments in our conversation is Dr. Fine's story of a young girl struggling with anxiety and self-harm whose life was forever changed through the unconditional love of his therapy dog, Hart. Sara also shares the remarkable story of a young girl battling anorexia who slowly rediscovered hope through working alongside a therapy dog. These stories remind us that healing is rarely about a single moment. It is about connection, trust, compassion, and creating safe spaces where people—and animals—can thrive together. We also discuss why animals are sentient beings deserving of respect, the ethical responsibility of protecting therapy animals, the importance of consent in animal-assisted interventions, and why the most effective healing happens when both the human and the animal are valued as equal partners in the relationship. If you've ever experienced the unconditional love of an animal, wondered why their presence feels so calming, or been curious about the science behind therapy animals, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for one of life's most extraordinary relationships. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this episode touched your heart, please subscribe, share it with someone who loves animals or works in healthcare, education, or mental health, and leave a comment sharing a story about an animal that changed your life. Together, we continue discovering the beautiful connections that remind us what it truly means to be. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Dr. Aubrey Fine at https://www.aubreyhfine.com/ P.P.S. You can connect with Sara Karlberg at https://terapihundskolan.se/

  2. Oct 7

    You're Not Stuck—You're Becoming Someone New

    What if burnout isn't the end of your story? What if it's an invitation to become who you've been meant to be all along? In this deeply relatable episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome artist, entrepreneur, and coach Lynette Melnyk for an honest conversation about burnout, identity, creativity, purpose, and learning to trust yourself through life's biggest transitions. Lynette opens up about building a successful multiple six-figure business over more than two decades and the surprising realization that outward success didn't always match how she felt inside. Even while doing meaningful work with clients she loved, her enthusiasm slowly faded. Like so many of us, she kept pushing forward until her nervous system finally told her it was time to listen. Together, we explore what burnout really looks like, why so many capable people ignore the early warning signs, and how we often become loyal to versions of ourselves that once served us but no longer align with who we're becoming. Lynette shares practical tools for recognizing those moments, quieting the constant noise around us, reconnecting with creativity, and trusting the wisdom that's already within us. We also discuss neuroplasticity, nervous system awareness, mindfulness, journaling, finding flow, and why seemingly simple practices like doodling, walking, or even vacuuming can open the door to remarkable insight. One of my favorite moments in our conversation is when we talk about vocation. The word comes from the Latin vocare, meaning "to call." That reminder changed the way I think about purpose. Our work isn't simply a job. It's an opportunity to answer the unique calling we've each been given and to use our gifts in service to others. We also explore what happens when you begin changing and the people around you aren't ready for the new version of you. Lynette offers compassionate wisdom about navigating those relationships, finding your authentic voice, and surrounding yourself with people who encourage your growth instead of resisting it. Whether you're experiencing burnout, entering a new season of life, rediscovering your creativity, or simply asking yourself, "What's next?" this conversation offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope for embracing the next chapter with confidence. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, share it with someone who may be navigating burnout or a life transition, and leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway. Sometimes the smallest shift in perspective becomes the beginning of the biggest transformation. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Lynette Melnyk at https://www.lynettemelnyk.com/

  3. Sep 23

    Why the Best Leaders Care More Than They Control

    What if leadership isn't about authority at all? What if it's about creating enough trust that people feel safe enough to become their best selves? In this inspiring episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome globally recognized executive coach, leadership advisor, and Master Certified Coach Andre Politzer for a meaningful conversation about human-centered leadership, emotional intelligence, purpose, trust, and personal transformation. Andre believes that leadership begins long before a title or position. It begins with how we show up for others. Together, we explore why trust is the foundation of every meaningful relationship, why caring is one of the greatest leadership strengths, and how curiosity, compassion, and authentic connection create healthier workplaces and stronger communities. Throughout our conversation, Andre shares insights from decades of coaching executives and organizations around the world. We discuss the importance of self-awareness, overcoming fear, finding purpose, leading through uncertainty, and creating cultures where people are empowered instead of managed. He reminds us that every leader has the opportunity to unlock freedom of thought, freedom of heart, and freedom of purpose—not only for themselves, but for everyone around them. Whether you're leading a global organization, raising a family, building a business, or simply striving to become a better version of yourself, this conversation offers practical wisdom that extends far beyond the workplace. At its core, it's a reminder that the most influential leaders never lose sight of the human being standing in front of them. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, share it with someone who is passionate about leadership or personal growth, and leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway. Every act of compassion, every conversation, and every moment of genuine connection has the power to create lasting change. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Andre Politzer at https://www.andrepolitzer.com

  4. Sep 9

    Your Subconscious Is Making More Decisions Than You Think

    What if your subconscious has been protecting you while quietly keeping you from becoming the person you're meant to be? In this powerful episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome emotional mastery coach, entrepreneur, and leadership expert Constance Curtis for a fascinating conversation about self-awareness, subconscious programming, emotional intelligence, and unlocking our full potential. Constance shares how her own entrepreneurial journey led her to discover the incredible connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we explore why so many of us unknowingly sabotage our own success, how childhood experiences influence our beliefs, and why our subconscious mind is constantly trying to keep us safe—even when it's preventing us from growing. We dive into the surprising difference between the fear of failure and the fear of success, and why many high achievers unconsciously avoid the very opportunities they've been working toward. Constance explains how limiting beliefs develop, how they show up in our daily decisions, and how self-awareness gives us the power to rewrite those internal stories. We also discuss authentic leadership, emotional mastery, the Enneagram, overcoming perfectionism, stepping through fear, and learning to trust ourselves enough to take aligned action. Throughout our conversation, Constance reminds us that lasting transformation doesn't come from becoming someone else—it comes from understanding ourselves more deeply and choosing to move forward anyway. If you've ever felt stuck, questioned your confidence, or wondered why reaching your goals sometimes feels harder than it should, this episode offers practical wisdom, compassionate insight, and encouragement to help you uncover what's truly holding you back. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway. Every moment of self-awareness creates the possibility for lasting change. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Constance Curtis at https://legacypiece.com/

  5. Aug 26

    Your Intuition Already Knows the Answer

    What if your intuition already knows the life you're meant to live? In this uplifting episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome spiritual advisor, wealth catalyst, and entrepreneur Colleen Lindberg for a conversation about trusting your intuition, embracing your purpose, and creating a life that feels deeply aligned with who you truly are. Colleen shares the remarkable story of walking away from a career that left her feeling disconnected and following an inner calling that completely transformed her life. Through years of personal growth, entrepreneurship, spiritual development, and unwavering trust, she discovered that success isn't built by hustling harder—it's created by becoming the person who is ready to receive it. Together, we explore what it means to trust your soul's wisdom, overcome limiting beliefs, and release the conditioning that tells us we have to struggle to succeed. Colleen explains how intuition has guided every major decision in her life, from building her business to living in the Costa Rican jungle, where slowing down and reconnecting with nature transformed the way she viewed abundance, peace, and fulfillment. We also discuss grounding, energy, wealth consciousness, entrepreneurship, money mindset, spiritual alignment, and why waiting for the "perfect time" often keeps us from the life we're truly meant to live. Colleen reminds us that abundance isn't simply about finances—it's about freedom, alignment, joy, and having the courage to say yes to the life that's calling your name. Whether you're building a business, navigating a career change, seeking greater purpose, or simply learning to trust yourself again, this conversation offers practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement to help you move forward with confidence. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this episode speaks to your heart, please subscribe, share it with someone who may need this message today, and leave a comment about your biggest takeaway. Every conversation has the power to create a ripple of hope, healing, and possibility. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Colleen Lindberg at https://www.instagram.com/thecolleenlindberg

  6. Aug 12

    The Hidden Reason You Keep Seeking Approval

    How much of your life has been shaped by seeking approval from other people? In this powerful episode of The Secrets of Being, I welcome award-winning author, licensed clinical psychologist, and trauma expert Dr. Lesley Goth for a deeply meaningful conversation about self-compassion, healing, trauma recovery, and reclaiming your sense of worth. We begin with one of Dr. Goth's most powerful insights: *"I've liberated myself from the need for approval from others."* From there, we explore why criticism often carries more weight than praise, how early childhood experiences shape our beliefs about ourselves, and why so many of us become people-pleasers without even realizing it. Dr. Goth explains why self-compassion is one of the most important skills we can develop, especially after trauma. She shares practical ways to quiet our inner critic, release shame, and begin treating ourselves with the same kindness we naturally extend to the people we love. We also dive into the fascinating connection between trauma and the body. Dr. Goth explains how painful experiences are stored in our nervous system, how EMDR therapy helps process unresolved trauma, and why practices like walking, yoga, breathwork, mindfulness, and meditation can support emotional healing. Whether you've experienced childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, sexual assault, or simply carry emotional wounds that still affect your daily life, this conversation offers hope and practical tools for moving forward. If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled with self-criticism, or wondered whether healing is truly possible, this episode is for you. Dr. Goth reminds us that healing isn't about perfection. It's about learning to offer ourselves compassion, trusting the process, and believing that hope is always available. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this conversation resonates with you, please subscribe, share it with someone who may need encouragement today, and leave a comment about what spoke to your heart. Together, we can create a world where healing, compassion, and hope become contagious. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Dr. Lesley Goth at https://denverfamilycounselingservices.com

  7. Aug 5

    Your Creativity May Be Trying to Heal You

    What if the thing that seems to be falling apart in your life is actually making room for who you're becoming? In this episode of The Secrets of Being, I sit down with artist, author, and speaker Ellen Benfatti, author of Caterpillar Soup, for a fascinating conversation about creativity, spiritual awakening, nervous system regulation, the subconscious mind, resilience, and trusting the gifts that are trying to emerge through us. Ellen's journey didn't begin with a plan to become an artist. It began during a period when her life seemed to be unraveling. As her marriage, career, home, and familiar sense of identity changed, she kept receiving one simple nudge: paint. She didn't have formal supplies or a grand vision. She started with Crayola watercolors and computer paper because she simply needed somewhere to put what she was experiencing. Looking back, she now recognizes that painting had become a safe container where she could self-soothe, regulate her nervous system, grieve, and reconnect with herself. One of the things that struck me most about Ellen's story is that the people around her didn't necessarily understand what she was doing. Some even thought she'd lost her way. But she kept creating. We talk about why nobody else has to understand the dream that was given to you, how easily we dismiss the little breadcrumbs that appear along our journey, and what can happen when we finally trust ourselves enough to follow them. Ellen also shares the meaning behind Caterpillar Soup and offers a perspective I absolutely love. We spend so much time celebrating the butterfly that we forget what the caterpillar has to endure before transformation ever becomes visible. Sometimes the messy, uncertain, uncomfortable middle is exactly where we're becoming. We also dive into the subconscious mind, creativity as a form of healing, spiritual and creative awakening, limiting beliefs, fear, intuition, Reiki, and how Ellen now uses artwork as a mirror to help people explore what may be happening beneath their conscious awareness. Ellen makes clear that she approaches this work as an artist drawing from her own experiences rather than as a medical professional. If you're navigating a life transition, questioning who you're becoming, feeling called toward something others don't understand, or rediscovering a creative part of yourself you buried years ago, this conversation is for you. Your caterpillar season isn't the end of your story. It may be the part that's preparing you to fly. Thank you for being part of The Secrets of Being community. If this conversation speaks to you, subscribe, share it with someone who may be navigating their own season of transformation, and tell me in the comments: What creative breadcrumb has life been asking you to follow? With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with Ellen here: https://ellenbenfattiartist.com/

  8. Jul 29

    He Walked Away From the Traditional Life and Never Looked Back

    In this motivating and deeply honest episode of The Secrets of Being, I am joined by entrepreneur, baseball coach, mentor, and social media creator L.A. Gamo, also known as The Baseballogist. From the very beginning of our conversation, it became clear that L.A.’s story is about much more than baseball. It is about having the courage to take the road less traveled, trusting yourself when nobody else understands your vision, and building a life rooted in fulfillment instead of simply following society’s expectations. L.A. opens up about his early years playing baseball, discovering entrepreneurship through books like Rich Dad Poor Dad and The Compound Effect, and realizing at a young age that he wanted something different for his life. We talk about what it means to break generational patterns, challenge cultural expectations, and step outside the traditional “go to school, get a job, play it safe” mindset. As an Asian-American entrepreneur, L.A. shares the difficult but transformative process of trusting his own path even when the people around him did not fully understand it. Throughout this episode, we explore entrepreneurship, mindset, fear, confidence, purpose, social media growth, parenting, and the importance of defining success for yourself. L.A. speaks honestly about building his brand from the ground up with simple tools, consistency, and vision rather than waiting for perfect circumstances. He explains why success leaves clues, why comparison can destroy creativity, and why so many people stay stuck because they are afraid to take the first step. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom for anyone who has ever felt called to create something bigger for their life. One of my favorite parts of this conversation was hearing L.A. talk about fatherhood and fulfillment. He shares why one of his greatest accomplishments is not money or social media success, but the amount of time he gets to spend with his children. We discuss the importance of leading by example, teaching confidence, creating a life aligned with your values, and giving yourself permission to build a life that feels authentic to who you truly are. If you have ever questioned your path, struggled with fear, felt misunderstood, or wondered whether you should pursue the dream on your heart, I hope this episode reminds you that the most meaningful life is often found on the other side of courage. With love, Dawn P.S. You can connect with L.A. Gamo here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baseballogist TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebaseballogist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBaseballogist

About

Introducing the "Secrets of Being Podcast" - a captivating journey into the depths of self-discovery, personal growth, and the art of living a fulfilling life. In a world that often moves at breakneck speed, this podcast serves as a tranquil oasis for those seeking profound wisdom and inspiration. Here, we explore the innermost realms of the human experience, delving into the profound secrets that lie within each of us, waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we embark on a voyage of self-discovery, guided by remarkable thought leaders, spiritual luminaries, and everyday heroes who have unearthed the treasures of self-awareness. Our guests share their intimate stories, timeless wisdom, and practical insights, illuminating the path to a life of purpose and authenticity. Through thought-provoking conversations, soul-stirring narratives, and transformative teachings, "Secrets of Being" invites you to peel back the layers of societal expectations, shed the masks we wear, and embrace the beautiful authenticity that resides at our core. Discover the secrets to igniting your inner fire, releasing self-imposed limitations, and forging a deeper connection to your true self. This podcast is an empowering roadmap for those who are ready to redefine their lives, expand their horizons, and unlock the potential that has always been within reach. Each episode is a testament to the enduring human spirit, offering hope, inspiration, and the tools to navigate life's challenges with grace, resilience, and unwavering purpose. Our aim is to elevate your soul, inspire your heart, and equip you with the knowledge and motivation to create a life that aligns with your deepest desires. Join us on this transformative journey. Tune in to the "Secrets of Being Podcast" and let the mysteries of the human experience, the power of authenticity, and the magic of self-discovery awaken within you. It's time to embrace the secrets that will illuminate your path to an extraordinary life.