A LOT with Audra

Audra Dinell
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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. 1D AGO

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

    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.

    9 min

  2. DEC 22

    51. The Art of Wintering with Jess Dunegan

    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.

    29 min

  3. DEC 15

    50. 2025 Thread Team Review

    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.

    43 min

  4. DEC 8

    49. 10 Things I Loved in 2025

    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.

    31 min

  5. DEC 1

    48. Stop Fixing Yourself: Why Owning Your Strengths Changes Everything with Kennedy Rogers

    What if your greatest strengths could help you navigate life’s biggest challenges—and even shape the way you parent? Discover how understanding and leveraging your unique talents can transform your career, relationships, and family life. Join the conversation with Kennedy Rogers, Director of Strengths Leadership and Student Impact at Wichita State University, as we explore the power of CliftonStrengths, the intersection of ADHD and personal growth, and the freedom that comes from embracing who you truly are. Highlights Kennedy’s journey from discovering her strengths to leading others at Wichita State UniversityThe difference between CliftonStrengths and other personality assessmentsHow strengths-based approaches empower both individuals and parentsNavigating ADHD: reframing challenges as assetsThe “balcony and basement” concept—how strengths can help or hinder usParenting with intention and letting go of perfectionPractical ways to apply strengths in career, education, and daily lifeEncouragement for skeptics and those feeling lost or in transitionChapters 00:23 — Kennedy’s work at Wichita State and her strengths journey 01:14 — What is CliftonStrengths? How does it differ from other assessments? 02:37 — The science and validity behind strengths-based tools 04:31 — Strengths in times of transition and personal growth 07:47 — ADHD and strengths: Kennedy’s personal story 12:21 — The “balcony and basement” of strengths 15:14 — Using strengths to find vocational direction 17:46 — Kennedy’s path from sales to higher education 21:57 — Parenting, education, and letting kids be themselves 27:29 — Strengths-based parenting and letting go of societal expectations 29:14 — Final thoughts, where to find Kennedy, and resources Resources Mentioned CliftonStrengths (Gallup StrengthsFinder):https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspxWichita State University:https://www.wichita.edu/Strengths-Based Parenting (Book):https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/253676/strengths-based-parenting.aspxConnect with Kennedy Rogers on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedy-rogers-3187618a/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

  6. NOV 24

    47. Embracing Resilience with Janice Perkins

    What if the messiest chapters of your life are actually the foundation for your most powerful growth? Today, I sit down with Janice Perkins—executive coach, speaker, and all-around force of nature—to explore the real stories behind resilience, self-worth, and the power of community. From battling chronic illness and single motherhood to building a thriving business and finding love again, Janice shares the unfiltered truth about letting go of expectations, embracing imperfection, and duct-taping life together with humor and heart. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying too much or not enough, this conversation is for you. Highlights The surprising power of sharing your story and bringing struggles into the lightHow Janice rebuilt her life after chronic illness, divorce, and career upheavalLetting go of perfectionism and learning to give yourself graceThe role of accountability partners, coaches, and inner circles in personal growthDaily practices for self-care and staying connectedWhy vulnerability is essential in both personal and professional lifeConfronting limiting beliefs and the myth of controlThe importance of risk-taking and trusting yourself in new chaptersChapters 00:00 — Welcome and Introduction 00:49 — Meet Janice Perkins 01:32 — Building Confidence and Friendship 02:46 — The Power of Sharing Stories 04:26 — Janice's Journey Through Adversity 07:05 — Parenting and Letting Go of Expectations 09:33 — The Struggle with Control and Self-Worth 12:45 — The Impact of Dr. Caroline Leaf's Work 17:35 — The Importance of Accountability and Support Systems 20:01 — Balancing Self-Care and Professional Life 22:55 — Daily Practices for Personal Growth 26:41 — Overcoming Fears and Limiting Beliefs 29:25 — Reflecting on Life's Challenges and Lessons 31:27 — Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Janice Resources Mentioned Dr. Caroline Leaf – Clean Up Your Mental MessI Have Capacity (Janice Perkins’ website)Janice Perkins on LinkedInThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkWant 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

  7. NOV 17

    46. Balancing Act | Redefining Leadership and Ambition with Paige McPheely

    Are you carrying a backpack full of expectations you never signed up for? Discover how redefining success, embracing help, and letting go of perfectionism can transform your work, your family life, and your sense of self. Join me as I talk with Paige McPheely, CEO and Co-founder of Base, about the real stories behind ambition, burnout, and the power of permission. Highlights Paige’s journey from startup founder and mom of three to redefining what leadership looks likeThe “backpack of expectations” and how to let go of what’s weighing you downLiving and working in Spain: lessons from a different pace of lifeThe myth of “doing it all” and why asking for help is a leadership superpowerHow to distinguish between healthy ambition and hustle addictionOutsourcing creatively—yes, even your handwriting!Practical strategies for deep work, blocking distractions, and creating ritualsThe “glass balls and plastic balls” analogy for balancing work and familyWhy giving yourself permission is the most radical act of self-careThe power of morning pages and stream-of-consciousness writingChapters 00:00 — Welcome & Introduction 00:53 — Meet Paige McPheely: CEO and Co-founder of Base 01:22 — Paige's Journey to Productivity 02:05 — Rethinking Success and Expectations 02:58 — Living in Spain: A Different Pace of Life 03:54 — Balancing Leadership and Parenting 05:45 — The Lie of Doing It All 06:54 — Healthy Ambition vs. Hustle Addiction 10:51 — Outsourcing: Creative Solutions 10:51 — Managing Time as an Entrepreneur and Mother 13:17 — Deep Work and Blocking Distractions 15:02 — Juggling Parenthood and Professional Life 20:25 — Reprogramming Stress and Overwhelm 23:14 — The Importance of Giving Yourself Permission 24:50 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Mentioned Base HQ — Find resources for hiring and working with executive assistantsLinkedIn: Paige McPheelyWant 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.

    28 min

  8. NOV 10

    45. Beyond Titles: Embracing Leadership at Kansas Leadership Center

    Are you ready to rethink what it means to be a leader? What if leadership isn’t about titles or authority, but about the choices we make every day: in our families, our workplaces, and our communities? Join me and my COO, Kendra Moody, as we unpack our journey through the Kansas Leadership Center’s programs, share the lessons that changed how we lead, and explore how anyone can step into leadership, no matter their role. Highlights The difference between leadership and management—and why anyone can leadOur experience with the Kansas Leadership Center’s Path and Coaching IntensiveHow leadership is an activity, not a position or titleThe power of adaptive vs. technical challenges in business and lifeWhy giving the work back is so much more than delegationThe importance of slowing down to lead more effectivelyHow managed self and values shape our leadership choicesBuilding community and connection through KLC’s global reachEmbracing risk, imperfection, and curiosity as essential leadership skillsChapters 0:00 – Welcome & Introduction 0:42 – Partnership with Kansas Leadership Center 1:12 – KLC Path and Certification 1:41 – Coaching Intensive Experience 2:15 – Leadership as an Activity 3:43 – Leadership in Everyday Life 4:49 – Global Reach of KLC 6:00 – Adaptive vs Technical Challenges 7:41 – Applying KLC Concepts in Business 9:24 – Leadership is Risky 11:44 – Asking Better Questions 14:15 – Giving the Work Back 17:38 – Slowing Down to Lead Effectively 20:12 – Managed Self and Values 22:17 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways Resources Kansas Leadership Center: kansasleadershipcenter.orgBook: When Everyone Leads by Ed O’Malley and Julia Fabris McBride: LinkCovey Leadership Model: The Leader in MePriya Parker – The Art of Gathering: priyaparker.comIf you’ve partnered with KLC, taken their courses, or want to connect, reach out—we love hearing your stories and sharing this work! 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.

    27 min
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5
out of 5
45 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
    2K
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Forge Podcast Co. 2025
  • Show Website
    A LOT with Audra