A LOT with Audra

Audra Dinell
  • 5.0 (47)
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"A LOT with Audra" is the podcast for women juggling big dreams and full lives. Each episode, host, Audra Dinell, Midwestern wife, mom and neurodivergent multi-six figure entrepreneur encourages women to embrace their many roles holistically by living a values-based life with confidence and joy. Through candid discussions, practical strategies and inspiring stories, this podcast is your guide to designing and achieving success without losing yourself in the process.

  1. 5D AGO

    56. Why I've Never Feared Getting Older

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply What if the best decades of your life are still ahead of you? My grandmother has spent her life proving that aging isn't about shrinking—it's about clarifying. From starting her first business in her fifties to becoming a master gardener in her late seventies, she's shown me that life doesn't have an expiration date on growth, reinvention, or joy. Today, she shares the wisdom she's gathered across eight decades: why your forties are transformative, how to stop judging yourself, what it means to be truly present, and why the past doesn't define your future. If you've ever felt like it's "too late" for something, this conversation will change your mind. HIGHLIGHTS • Why the forties are the best decade—and what makes them so transformative • How to learn from your mistakes without living in regret • The connection between judgment and presence (and why you can't have both) • What it takes to build character traits like integrity at any age • Why moving outside your bubble creates exponential personal growth • How to let go of worrying about what other people think • The importance of forgiving yourself—and others • Why women need to stop judging themselves and start saving for their future • What a good life actually looks like: health, presence, and acceptance CHAPTERS [1:04] - Introduction: Why I'm Not Afraid of Aging [1:58] - What Mattered Then That Doesn't Matter Now [3:50] - The Power of Being Present [7:53] - Remembering the Good Shots: Life Like Golf [9:33] - Seasons That Surprised Her [11:48] - Moving to Atlanta: Starting Over in Your Forties [14:23] - Building Integrity in Your Forties [16:08] - It's Never Too Late: Starting a Business at 50 [19:05] - Letting Go of Hesitation and What Others Think [20:26] - What I Want You to Know at 40 [21:57] - One Kind Truth for Your Younger Self [23:03] - What to Be Proud Of: Integrity and Acceptance [24:53] - What Women Worry About Too Much [26:17] - What Women Need to Worry About More [26:52] - What a Good Life Actually Looks Like Want to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    30 min

  2. JAN 19

    55. Starting Small: Act Two Habits to Anchor You with Dr. Rebecca Culver-Turner

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply Are you listening to your body, or just pushing through? Discover how tuning into your physical and emotional signals can transform your leadership, career, and personal fulfillment. Join the conversation with Dr. Rebecca Culver-Turner, a seasoned therapist, educator, and founder, as we explore the power of systems theory, the courage to start over, and the habits that support meaningful change. Highlights Dr. Rebecca’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship and what inspired her leapHow systems theory applies to both therapy and organizational leadershipThe impact of the pandemic and demographic shifts on higher educationRecognizing the physical signs of stress and the importance of listening to your bodyInternal Family Systems therapy and the challenge of suppressing emotions in professional lifeThe three identities: personal, professional, and positional—and how to balance themHabits for personal growth: pausing, journaling, community, and strength trainingOvercoming self-doubt and embracing lifelong learning at any agePractical ways to apply systems thinking to leadership and team dynamicsChapters 00:00 – Meet Dr. Rebecca 02:21 – Dr. Rebecca's Professional Journey 04:02 – Challenges in Academia 04:47 – Applying Systems Theory 05:30 – Impact of the Pandemic 06:48 – The Perfect Storm and Transition 08:09 – Listening to the Body 10:03 – Recognizing Stress and Seeking Therapy 14:13 – Internal Family Systems Therapy 15:21 – Suppressing Emotions in Professional Life 16:27 – Emotional Agility and Energy Drain 17:44 – Identity Shift and Personal Realizations 18:31 – Balancing Personal, Professional, and Positional Identities 21:15 – Listening to the Body for Professional Decisions 22:06 – Finding Joy in Personal and Professional Life 23:00 – Listening to Your Body 23:35 – Postgraduate Supervision in Therapy 24:18 – Journaling and Self-Reflection 25:01 – Discovering Professional Joy 26:21 – Mental Notes and Casual Reflection 27:46 – Balancing Work and Personal Life 28:33 – The Importance of Pausing 29:20 – Supportive Habits for Personal Growth 30:11 – The Role of Community and Connection 31:17 – Prioritizing Physical Health 32:16 – Starting Over and Lifelong Learning 32:57 – Overcoming Self-Doubt 35:23 – Applying Systems Theory to Leadership 36:19 – Understanding Triangulation in Systems 39:28 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information Resources Culver Turner Institute: culverturnerinstitute.comDr. Rebecca Culver Turner on LinkedIn: LinkedIn ProfileBook: The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté: Amazon LinkBook: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: Amazon LinkMartha Beck (on following joy and authenticity): marthabeck.comDiana Chapman (on professional decision-making and body wisdom): conscious.isSusan David (on Emotional Agility): susandavid.comWant to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    44 min

  3. JAN 12

    54. When A Life Shift is Out of Your Control w/ Kristen Selby, Founder of Executive Assistance

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply Are you navigating a season of unexpected change, feeling lost in your roles, or searching for your own definition of success? Discover how one woman rebuilt her life, career, and sense of self after a pivotal turning point, and find inspiration to trust your own inner voice—no matter what life throws your way. Kristen Selby, founder of Timely Executive Assistants and Chief Administrative Officer at The Thread, shares her raw and honest journey through divorce, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and rediscovering self-trust. This conversation is a heartfelt look at what it means to let go of external expectations, set boundaries, and build a life that feels truly authentic. Highlights The moment everything changed: turning 40 and facing an unexpected divorceFeeling like a single mom within a marriage and the challenges of raising three young childrenThe power of boundaries and the “only love in, only love out” philosophyRebuilding self-trust after years of seeking external validationStarting a business against the odds and finding empowerment in adversityLetting go of relationships that no longer serve youParenting through messy times and embracing vulnerabilityAdvice for anyone facing an unplanned life shiftThe importance of agency, self-compassion, and finding your “rainbow colors”Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Kristen Selby 02:16 — The Big Shift in 2020 03:01 — Turning 40 and Reflecting on Life 04:03 — Life in Wichita 04:46 — Single Mom Within a Marriage 06:32 — The Unexpected Divorce 08:10 — Rebuilding After the Divorce 08:24 — Finding Breadcrumbs of Self 14:39 — Rediscovering Self-Trust 17:10 — Seeking Freedom and Love 18:06 — Building a New Home and Life 19:10 — Starting a Business Against the Odds 20:03 — Trusting Inner Knowing 20:18 — Getting Your Sea Legs 20:29 — Becoming Your Own Expert 20:58 — Building Inner Trust 21:09 — The Importance of Self-Trust 21:56 — Facing Hardships with Self-Trust 22:48 — Boundaries and Rebuilding 23:49 — Support from Friends 24:54 — Letting Go of Relationships 27:18 — Parenting Through Messy Times 28:54 — Homeschooling and Consistency 29:28 — Embracing Vulnerability 30:23 — Advice to 30-Year-Old Self 31:39 — Letting Go of Control 32:11 — Dealing with Your Own Issues 33:49 — Finding Your Rainbow Colors 35:44 — Closing Reflections Resources Mentioned Timely Executive Assistants — Kristen’s business providing fractional executive assistant support: https://www.timelyea.com/We Can Do Hard Things Podcast (Abby Wambach & Glennon Doyle): https://wecandohardthingspodcast.com/Want to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    38 min

  4. JAN 5

    53. Are You in Your Second Act?

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply What if turning 40 isn’t a crisis, but a coming of age? Are you feeling a quiet shift—a pull toward something more honest, grounded, and true to yourself? Today we begin exploring the beauty and complexity of entering a new season of life, where ambition is redefined, softness is embraced, and the “second act” becomes a time for intentional living. Drawing inspiration from family, mentors, and cultural shifts, I reflect on what it means to move beyond proving yourself and start becoming who you truly are. Whether you’re approaching a milestone birthday or simply sensing a change, you’re not alone—and there’s so much more ahead. Highlights Embracing aging and the excitement of turning 40Lessons from my grandmother and mentors about thriving in your fortiesThe inspiration behind launching a new podcast season: “The Second Act”Shifts in workplace culture and the rise of the “human skills revolution”Balancing ambition with softness and clarityReflecting on Act One: building, striving, and learningDefining Act Two: living and leading with intentionChallenging the “midlife crisis” narrative and embracing a coming of ageInsights from Mary Oliver and Jane Fonda on living a meaningful lifeWhat to expect from this season: interviews, community stories, and honest conversationsChapters 00:00 — Introduction: Embracing 40 00:54 — Inspiration from Grandma and Mentors 02:09 — The Second Act: A New Podcast Season 02:28 — Shifts in Workplace Culture 02:53 — Balancing Ambition and Softness 03:44 — Life’s Precious Moments 04:24 — The Human Skills Revolution 04:42 — Reflecting on Act One 05:25 — Defining Act Two 10:12 — Midlife Crisis or Coming of Age? 13:14 — Excitement for the Future 14:10 — Mary Oliver’s Wisdom 14:41 — Jane Fonda’s Advice 16:10 — Season Overview and Expectations 17:45 — Conclusion: Welcome to the Second Act Resources Mentioned Lean In & McKinsey: Women in the Workplace 2025 ReportMary Oliver, “The Summer Day” (poem)Jane Fonda’s Advice on Aging (YouTube)Audra Dinell on Substack: The Second ActIf you’re feeling the softening, the clarity, or the pull to live a little differently, you’re not having a midlife crisis—you’re having a coming of age. Welcome to the Second Act. Want to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    21 min

  5. 12/29/2025

    52. What to Expect from A Lot with Audra in 2026

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply Are you ready to step into your second act? What if the next chapter of your life isn’t about starting over, but about becoming more of who you truly are? As we close out 2025, I invite you to pause, reflect, and get excited for what’s ahead. This isn’t just a recap—it’s a doorway to new beginnings, deeper clarity, and the freedom to design a life that feels like your own. Let’s talk about what it means to embrace change, honor your journey, and boldly step into the next phase with courage, curiosity, and community. Highlights The meaning and inspiration behind “the second act”Why turning 40 feels like a recalibration, not a crisisHow to clarify what truly matters and set new boundariesThe difference between proving yourself and believing in yourselfUpcoming interviews with women navigating their own second actsTools, questions, and frameworks to help you build your next chapterHonest behind-the-scenes of my own journey—marriage, motherhood, ambition, and moreEncouragement for anyone feeling behind or uncertain as the new year beginsInvitation to join the written companion on SubstackChapters 00:00 — Introduction and Welcome01:08 — Reflecting on 202501:20 — Introducing the Second Act01:58 — Defining the Second Act02:14 — Life’s Timeline and Career Midpoint02:45 — Clarifying What Matters03:18 — The Concept of the Second Act03:50 — Exploring Identity and Skills04:32 — Emotional Agility and Boundaries04:54 — Interviews and Stories05:37 — Coaching and Tools06:09 — Behind the Scenes of My Second Act06:47 — Encouragement for the New Year07:10 — Believing in Yourself08:03 — Looking Forward to 2026Resources Mentioned The Second Act Substack: https://substack.com/@audradinellThank you for listening, sharing, and being part of this journey. If you feel the second act stirring in you, make sure you’re subscribed and join me on Substack for more. Here’s to turning the page—together. Want to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    10 min

  6. 12/22/2025

    51. The Art of Wintering with Jess Dunegan

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply Are you craving a slower, more intentional pace as the seasons change? Discover how tuning into the rhythms of nature can transform your well-being, mindset, and daily habits. Join me and special guest Jess Dunegan, an Ayurvedic nutritionist, yoga teacher, and co-owner of Yoga State as we explore the art of seasonal living, practical ways to embrace slowness, and how to make winter a restorative, nourishing time. Highlights The meaning and origins of seasonal livingHow our ancestors lived in tune with nature—and what we can learn from themModern challenges to living seasonally (and how to overcome them)Simple nutrition shifts for each seasonRecognizing your body’s signals for a seasonal resetPractical self-care rituals rooted in AyurvedaReframing winter as a time for restoration, not just survivalTips for embracing slowness and presence in a fast-paced worldHow to work with Jess for deeper support and community Chapters 00:28 – Introduction to Seasonal Living 01:00 – Meet Jess Dunegan 02:15 – Ancestors and Seasonal Living 04:23 – Modern Challenges of Seasonal Living 05:10 – Demystifying Seasonal Living 06:22 – Seasonal Nutrition 08:21 – Energy and Mood in Different Seasons 11:31 – Practices for Embracing Slowness 12:01 – Introduction to Ayurveda 16:11 – Winter Practices and Self-Care 18:09 – Mental and Emotional Benefits of Winter 19:34 – Physical Activities for Winter 21:35 – Signs Your Body Needs a Seasonal Shift 24:36 – Conclusion and How to Work with Jess Resources Mentioned The Wellness Kula – Jess’s website for Flow and Flourish program, retreats, and workshopsYoga State KS on Facebook – Jess’s yoga studioYoga State KS on Instagram – Connect for classes and updatesWintering by Katherine May – Book recommendation for reframing winter as a restorative season (Book Link)PDF Guide to Self-Massage (Abhyanga) Want to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    30 min

  7. 12/15/2025

    50. 2025 Thread Team Review

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply Is it possible that the year is ending already? Today I’m bringing our Thread team together to talk about the unexpected curveballs that came our way in 2025. This candid conversation explores the surprises, lessons, and growth that come from a year of navigating business, family, and personal challenges. Join us as we reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and the wisdom we’re carrying into the new year. Highlights Navigating grief and personal loss while staying present for business and familyThe power of simplicity and learning to say “no” to overcommitmentRealizations about playing small and daring to pursue big dreamsLessons from motherhood: letting go, managing conflict, and giving kids spaceThe tension between ambition and contentment—and how to find flowDelegating in business and the courage to take calculated risksBuilding routines that support health, family, and work-life balanceChoosing a “word of the year” as a guiding intention for growthChapters 00:00 – Welcome & Setting the Scene 00:45 – Team Podcast and Year Wrap-Up 01:21 – Personal Reflections and Surprises 01:52 – Navigating Personal Challenges (Grief, Resilience) 05:43 – Embracing Simplicity (Kendra’s Insight) 08:37 – Pursuing Big Dreams (Audra’s Realization) 14:47 – Lessons from Motherhood 18:01 – Balancing Ambition and Contentment 22:11 – Finding Flow and Productivity 26:31 – Business Strategies and Delegation 29:30 – Personal Health and Routine 31:32 – Parenting and Time Management 34:45 – Choosing a Word for the Year 38:00 – Reflections on 2025 & Looking Forward to 2026 42:00 – Closing Thoughts & Listener Call-to-Action Resources Mentioned Essentialism by Greg McKeownBrené Brown’s “Strong Ground”Glennon Doyle’s “Houseplant Parent” conceptWant to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    44 min

  8. 12/08/2025

    49. 10 Things I Loved in 2025

    Cohort 11 for The Thread is open now! To apply, visit www.thethreadwichita.com/apply What if the best things in your year weren’t what you planned? As we wind down 2025, I’m reflecting on the surprises, tools, and shifts that made this year meaningful—personally and professionally. From discovering new values to finding joy in the unexpected, I’m sharing the 10 things I loved most this year, hoping they’ll inspire you to reflect, reset, and maybe try something new as you look ahead. Highlights Discovered the Values Bridge Tool by Suzy Welch for deeper self-understandingExperienced the benefits of food sensitivity testingUsed the How We Feel app to expand emotional vocabulary (and helped my kids do the same)Celebrated 15 years of marriage with a transformative Focus Lab experienceDownshifted work for a more intentional, essential rhythmLearned to let go of “good” to make space for “great”Found renewed joy in podcasting and committed to another yearWatched my family become avid readers (and hit a personal reading record)Built new friendships with real staying powerChose to stay and invest in our current home, embracing contentmentChapters 00:00 Reflecting on 2025 00:51 10 Things I Loved in 2025: Categories & Overview 02:03 Values Bridge Tool by Suzy Welch 08:45 Food Sensitivity Testing 10:03 How We Feel App 13:29 Focus Lab Experience 15:01 Downshifting Work 17:11 Letting Go of Good for Great 20:25 Podcasting Joy 22:21 Family of Readers 24:15 New Friendships with Staying Power 26:12 Deciding to Stay in Our Home 29:00 Reflecting on Home and Values 29:58 Intentional Living 30:06 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Resources Values Bridge Tool by Suzy WelchValues Bridge Tool Book: 10-10-10 by Suzy WelchBrené Brown’s Values AssessmentBook: Dare to Lead by Brené BrownEmotional AgilityBook: Emotional Agility by Susan DavidHow We Feel AppHow We FeelFocus Lab with Liz Forkin BohannonLiz Bohannon’s WebsiteEssentialism by Greg McKeownBook: Essentialism by Greg McKeownLiz Bohannon’s Podcast: Plucking UpPlucking Up PodcastWant to learn more? The Thread Be sure to follow me @audradinell on Instagram and LinkedIn This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. Disclaimer: we may receive a small commission on any products purchased through the links used in this episode. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and find valuable.

    32 min
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5
out of 5
47 Ratings

About

"A LOT with Audra" is the podcast for women juggling big dreams and full lives. Each episode, host, Audra Dinell, Midwestern wife, mom and neurodivergent multi-six figure entrepreneur encourages women to embrace their many roles holistically by living a values-based life with confidence and joy. Through candid discussions, practical strategies and inspiring stories, this podcast is your guide to designing and achieving success without losing yourself in the process.

Information

  • Creator
    Audra Dinell
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Forge Podcast Co. 2025
  • Show Website
    A LOT with Audra

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