The DASH Mindset Podcast

Sheri Zevenbergen

Welcome to The DASH Mindset Podcast with Sheri Zevenbergen. A show that helps you live authentically & unlock your true potential in all aspects of your life.

  1. 1D AGO

    56. Redefining Success in Midlife with Nicole Studt

    What if midlife isn’t something to “get through”…but something to lean into? In this episode, Nicole Studt and I talk about all things midlife…identity, pivoting with intention, maps, payphones, and why the middle years may hold more meaning and growth than we expect. Nicole shares her journey from corporate HR to self-employment, how flexibility became a gift during some of life’s hardest seasons, and why understanding ourselves (and each other) matters more than ever. We explore how tools like the Enneagram can deepen compassion, strengthen relationships, and reduce unnecessary friction…at work, at home, and within ourselves. It’s a powerful reminder that we don’t have to wait for “someday” to live fully aligned lives. Midlife isn’t the end of the story…it’s often where clarity, courage, and self-trust finally start to click into place. If you’re wanting to understand yourself more deeply, rethink what success means, or reduce friction in your life and work, listen in. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why the “middle age” narrative needs a serious reframe Making career pivots that prioritize flexibility, values, and real life The unexpected gifts of working for yourself (and with family) How the Enneagram helps us understand why we do what we do Navigating relationships through personality awareness Why the middle years deserve more credit than they get About Nicole Studt Nicole Studt hosts The Marvelous Middle Age Podcast, a weekly podcast focused on building a community of people in midlife.  She is an experienced Virtual Assistant with nine years in the field, and a certified Enneagram Coach. She is deeply passionate about empowering individuals to thrive in their current season of life—especially women navigating midlife. Nicole holds a B.S. in Applied Business from Mount Mercy University and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University, and she has over 20 years of experience as a Human Resources Professional. She has been happily married to her husband for 20 years, and together they are the proud parents of a 19-year-old son. Nicole is a devoted believer and encourager. She enjoys advocating for people with disabilities, spending quality time with her family, and listening to podcasts. A unique aspect of her personal journey includes reclaiming her health and body, during which she lost over 100 pounds and underwent three skin removal surgeries. This transformation fuels her commitment to personal growth and living a vibrant, fulfilling life. Connect with Nicole The Marvelous Middle-Aged Podcast Instagram Let’s Connect Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

    56 min
  2. JAN 29

    55. You’re Doing Better Than You Think: 80 Reminders

    Gratitude can feel annoying when we’re tired, overwhelmed, or just trying to get through the day. This episode isn’t about forcing gratitude or pretending things are fine. Instead, I share a list of 80 real-life things we tend to overlook…the kind we forget to notice when we’re busy getting through the day. This isn’t a 5am, burn-sage, reach inner-peace kind of gratitude episode. It’s a reminder that we’re often so focused on what’s next…or what’s missing…that we forget to notice what’s already working, what we’ve already handled, and how much we’ve already grown. You don’t need a notebook. You don’t need to pause and reflect. You don’t need to “do” anything at all. Just listen. And if one thing on the list resonates, fantastic. What This Episode Might Shift for You A more realistic view of your progress…even if things feel messy right now Less pressure to constantly “fix” yourself or your life More appreciation for the small steps you’ve already taken A reminder that progress doesn’t have to be big and impressive to count Closing Thought Progress doesn’t always look like a big, impressive moment. If your brain tends to focus on how far you still think you need to go, that doesn’t mean you haven’t made progress. It just means you’re human. You can download the full list using the link below and revisit it anytime you need the reminder. Thanks for listening! You get one dash. Make it matter. Let’s Connect Download the 80 Things to Be Thankful For list. Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters.

    10 min
  3. JAN 15

    54. It Wasn’t Even an Elephant: Why Small Things Start to Feel So Big

    After an unplanned podcast hiatus due to tech avoidance and a little story inflation, Sheri is back with an honest conversation about the stories we tell ourselves…and how they quietly keep us stuck. In this episode, Sheri unpacks why manageable tasks turn into overwhelming “elephants,” how perfectionism and accountability (or the lack of it) fuel avoidance, and why progress almost always starts with a tiny, imperfect step. It’s a reminder that most of what we avoid isn’t actually as hard as we tell ourselves it is. If you’ve been putting something off, overthinking a simple next step, or telling yourself a convincing story about why “now isn’t the time,” this episode is your nudge forward. Because most of the things we avoid aren’t actually elephants at all. They’re more like squirrels…chaotic and distracting, but completely manageable.   What This Episode Might Shift for You A more realistic perspective on the thing you’ve been avoiding Less pressure to have it all figured out before you begin Permission to take a small, imperfect first step A more grounded, realistic story about what’s actually required In This Conversation Why Sheri was MIA for a while… and what was happening behind the scenes How accountability (or the lack of it) impacts follow-through Why we avoid things we’re fully capable of doing How perfection turns small tasks into massive mental projects Four practical ways to shrink the story and move forward Try This After Listening Name the thing you’ve been avoiding…out loud if possible Identify the smallest first step rather than focusing on the entire project Ask yourself: What’s the 60-second action I could take today? Give yourself permission to be a beginner and move forward imperfectly And listen to my friend Sue’s podcast that I mentioned! Susan M. Barber at The Visibility Factor Podcast.   Closing Thought If something in your life has gotten bigger in your head than it actually is, this is your reminder: stories can be rewritten, and momentum starts small. If this episode resonated, please share it, subscribe, and stay tuned…Sheri is officially back. The elephant has been eaten.   Thanks for listening! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On  iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect: Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Reach out if you’d like to explore how I can be a resource for you. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it!

    11 min
  4. 08/21/2025

    53. 85% of People Don't Know What They Want. Here's How to Join the 15%.

    What do you really want? (And why that question feels so hard) We can all list what we don’t want…burnout, bad bosses, endless countdowns to Friday. But when it comes to answering “What do I want?” most people find it harder to answer than expected. In fact, over 85% of people admit they don’t know what they truly want in life or their career. In this episode, I share why focusing on what you don’t want keeps you stuck…and how shifting to what you do want points you toward a more fulfilling personal and professional life. Feeling stuck? Find yourself saying, “I don’t want this…” more than “I do want that…”? Tired of running on autopilot? Take a listen. Here's what you'll learn: Why focusing on what you don’t want keeps you in the very place you’re trying to escape How the “pink elephant” effect hijacks your attention Three clarifying questions that unlock what you really want How small, everyday clues (like what lights you up) point to bigger patterns Why writing it down matters (and how it helps create direction without needing a perfect plan) Two takeaways you can try today: When you catch yourself focusing on what you don’t want, pause and ask: “Okay, then what DO I want? Answer these three questions in writing (no editing, no disclaimers): When have I felt most alive or fulfilled in the past year? If I could wave a magic wand, what would my ideal personal and professional life look like? What do I want to experience more of? Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a quick rating and review. On iTunes, scroll down, tap to give five stars, and hit “Write a Review.” On Spotify, just select “Rate Show.” Your support helps more people lead their lives…and lead others…in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect: Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Connect with me on LinkedIn. Reach out if you’d like to explore how I can be a resource for you. Have an idea for a future episode? I’d love to hear it!

    10 min
  5. 08/07/2025

    52. Focused As A Bee with Jones Loflin

    What if you stopped being busy as a bee…and started being focused as one? In this episode, I’m joined by keynote speaker, coach, and author Jones Loflin, who brings insights from the beehive to our everyday busyness. His latest book, Focused As A Bee (co-written with his daughter, Sydney Loflin), draws on lessons from their real-life beekeeping adventures and offers a more intentional, energizing way to live and work. Drawing on 30+ years of experience and real-life lessons from beekeeping with his daughter, Jones helps us rethink the way we use our time, our energy, and our focus. We also touch on his popular book Juggling Elephants, which uses the metaphor of a 3-ring circus (work, self, and relationships) to help people stop trying to do it all…and start doing what matters. Feeling overwhelmed or constantly “on”? Wish you could recharge without guilt? Tired of juggling elephants? You’ll hear relatable stories about over-functioning, letting go of guilt, and vacation boundaries, and you’ll learn a few simple strategies you can put into action right away. If you’ve been juggling elephants, trying to do it all, or waiting for permission to slow down, take a listen. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why “busy” is a trap and what bees can teach us about working with intention The formula for true focus…intentional, time and energy, and what matters most Six types of permission we need to give ourselves (like the permission to prioritize and unplug) What it really means to be “unavailable” and why it’s crucial, not selfish How the “juggling elephants” mindset leads to burnout and what to do instead Why breathing, napping, and setting boundaries are power moves (not signs of weakness) How to stop over-functioning and stop waiting for someone else to give you permission to rest Ways to model healthy habits for others…especially if you're in a leadership role Two takeaways you can try today: Take micro-breaks like a bee. Even the hardest-working bees take 40 mini-naps per day to recharge. Pause for a deep breath or a short walk between tasks. Start your day with intention, not email. Ask yourself, “What do I want to get out of today?” before letting distractions drive your to-do list. Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out Jones’s website: JonesLoflin.com Connect with Jones on LinkedIn: (in/jonesloflin) Take Jones’s free Focus Assessment at jonesloflin.com/podcast Learn more about his books: Focused As A Bee 🐝 Juggling Elephants Always Growing About Jones Loflin Jones Loflin has made it his life’s work to deliver powerful ideas and practical solutions to individuals around the world so they can achieve more of what is most important to them. Prior to becoming an internationally-recognized speaker, Jones was an educator. His past work also includes serving as the "Trainer of Trainers" for the best-selling book, Who Moved My Cheese? Jones holds a BS and M.Ed. from North Carolina State University. Jones believes the key to success is being passionate about certain things in life, including family, spiritual beliefs, career, and relationships. His favorite quote is by Zig Ziglar: “Go as far as you can see by faith, and when you get there you can see farther.” When not working with some amazing individuals and organizations seeking better results, Jones resides in North Carolina with his wonderful wife Lisa. They have two perfect daughters and one really cool son-in-law. Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

    52 min
  6. 07/24/2025

    51. Ask Questions, Create Possibilities with Dr. Michael White

    What happens when you stop waiting for permission, start asking better questions, and lean into what’s always come naturally to you? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michael White – someone who turned curiosity and asking the right questions into a career that fits. From corporate analyst to CEO of his own training company, Michael’s story is a reminder: your strengths are always showing up. The key is being curious enough to notice. What You’ll Learn: In this conversation, we explore how curiosity, asking the right questions, and paying attention to what comes naturally can create new opportunities – sometimes in unexpected ways. You'll hear: How Michael’s curiosity and love of asking questions led him to build a whole new career The surprising parallels between business analysis, coaching, matchmaking – and how it all comes down to asking better questions Why you don’t need to wait for permission to try something new How peeling back the layers often leads to clarity (in work, life, and relationships) The myth of job security and how to trust yourself to take the next step How connecting the dots backward often reveals how aligned you already are with what you’re meant to do If you’re interested in business analysis, you’ll appreciate this one. But even if you’re not, this conversation goes beyond the technical. It’s really about curiosity, confidence, and creating a career – and life – that aligns with who you are. Because your dash deserves more than autopilot. About Dr. Michael White:      Dr. Michael F. White is the founder of The Business Analysis Doctor, LLC, a global business analysis (BA) training provider specializing in certifications administered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) as well as hands-on business analysis training. Through his rich and consistent content, Michael has transformed social media into an educational platform for individuals pursuing a BA certification and those wanting to learn more about the BA profession. His training programs offer a unique blend of flexibility, application, and practicality, presenting course material to adult learners in ways they can easily incorporate into daily life. With an incredible thirst for knowledge, Michael holds a Doctor of Business Administration, CBAP, IIBA-AAC, IIBA-CBDA, and CSSGB. Where to Find Dr. Michael White Website: TheBadoc.com LinkedIn: Michael White YouTube: The Business Analysis Doctor - IIBA Certification Podcast: The Business Analysis Doctor Podcast Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

    1 hr
  7. 07/10/2025

    50. "Why Would You Want to Be a Glorified Waitress?" with Kathy Healy

    Why would you want to quit being a CPA to be a glorified waitress? This is one of the questions Kathy Healy was asked after making the decision to leave her public accounting career and become a flight attendant. And she did it anyway. In this episode, I'm joined by Kathy Healy and her daughter Dana for a fun conversation about making bold moves later in life. After more than 20 years as a CPA, Kathy made the decision to become a flight attendant at age 52. While most people her age are counting down to retirement, she left her job just months before 9/11 turned the airline industry upside down. We Talk About: What motivated her to make the change The surprising challenges and rewards of flight attendant training What it’s like to completely shift your day-to-day life and start over How age doesn’t have to be a limitation (unless you decide it does) Why it’s okay to want something different — and actually go for it Kathy shares her story with honesty, humor, and the kind of perspective that only comes from doing the thing most people talk themselves out of. If you’ve ever thought you’re not the “right” age for something, or you just want to hear from someone who took a risk and doesn’t regret it…This is proof that possibility doesn’t expire. And the best chapters of your story might be the ones you haven't written yet. 🎥 Watch the short video from Kathy’s final flight (also her YouTube debut) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g8rTeeR9VU About Kathy Healy Kathy Healy spent over 20 years as a CPA, including roles in corporate accounting, teaching, and public accounting (McGladrey & Pullen brought her back three separate times - but that's another story!). In 2001, at age 52, she traded spreadsheets for airplane aisles, becoming a Southwest Airlines flight attendant until her retirement in 2022. She now enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, attending Iowa women's basketball games, cheering on Caitlin Clark, and spending time with family and friends. If this conversation with Kathy inspired you to think differently about what's possible, please share with a friend who might need to hear it too, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Thanks for listening!  Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me here to schedule a free consult, gain clarity, and determine if we’re a good fit. Contact me here to share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

    47 min
  8. 06/26/2025

    49. Love, Limiting Beliefs, & Letting People In with Cat Cantrill

    Ever find yourself (or your friends) dating the same type of person over and over? Wondering why it never works out? Or maybe you're not dating at all…because the whole thing feels exhausting, confusing, or like it just isn't working anymore? In this episode, I'm joined by my dear friend Cat Cantrill, a professional matchmaker and dating coach who's not afraid to tell it like it is with honesty and kindness. Cat shares her own unexpected journey from corporate life to dance studio ownership to helping people find love for a living. And, of course, we talk about why people stay stuck in the same patterns, how early experiences shape our approach to love, and what it really takes to find (and keep) a meaningful relationship. It’s not about having a longer checklist or perfecting your profile (although pics without shower curtains, toilets, or dead fish is a great start). Whether you're swiping, settled, or somewhere in between, you'll be entertained and reminded why we're all a little weird, especially when it comes to love. What You’ll Learn Why your dating “wants” might be blocking your actual needs How limiting beliefs and early experiences shape your love life (and how to change them) What attachment styles are and how they play out in relationships and even at work Common dating mistakes and how to refine your dating behavior without changing or faking who you are Why being “open for business” is the #1 tip for finding love Whether you're single, supporting a friend, or just fascinated by human behavior, you'll find insights and entertainment about relationships, vulnerability, and what it means to truly connect. Some Highlights Cat’s collaborative and global matchmaking network and database Cat’s live dating gameshow in 2022 Why secure attachment styles are relationship gold About Cat Cantrill Cat Cantrill is a professional matchmaker and dating coach who has been helping singles find meaningful connections since 2015. With a background in psychology and sociology, she combines her deep understanding of human behavior with a passion for guiding clients through the complexities of modern dating. Cat is the founder of The Scottsdale Matchmaker (formerly The Heart Agency), with offices in Iowa and Scottsdale, Arizona, where she offers bespoke matchmaking services tailored to each client’s unique needs. Cat’s approach is grounded in empathy and relationship science, offering practical, no-nonsense coaching to help clients refine their dating strategy and gain clarity about what they’re truly seeking in a partner. In 2021, Cat launched the podcast, Dear Matchmaker, which ranked in the top 5% globally and was nominated for the Iowa Podcast Award’s Best Relationship Podcast in 2024. She has been a featured speaker at the Global Love Institute and has been a guest expert on over 20 podcasts. Cat has made appearances on CBS and PBS, and has been featured in Datingadvice.com (July 2024) as a leader in her industry and Fortune Magazine (June 2024) as an elite matchmaker. Additionally, she was honored as a nominee for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Woman of the Year in 2016 and received the HER Magazine Women of Achievement Award in 2018. Where to Find Cat Cantrill Instagram: catcantrill Facebook: catcantrill TikTok: @catcantrill LinkedIn: catcantrill Website: ScottsdaleMatchmaker.com Podcast: Dear Matchmaker All the Links 💬 “Don’t dull your shine. The brighter you shine, the more people can find you.” – Cat Cantrill Thanks for listening!  If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend, and subscribe for future insights and inspiration! If you love The DASH Mindset Podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! On iTunes, simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” On Spotify, select “Rate show.” Your rating and review will help more people lead their lives and lead others in a way that truly matters. Let’s Connect! Learn more about working with me at The DASH Mindset website. Find me on LinkedIn. Contact me to see how I can be a resource for you! Share your ideas for future episodes! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The DASH Mindset Podcast!

    58 min
5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Welcome to The DASH Mindset Podcast with Sheri Zevenbergen. A show that helps you live authentically & unlock your true potential in all aspects of your life.