Becoming Heart Strong isn’t about what you’ve built or what broke you—it’s about who you’ve become. Hosted by Jess Lindberg, this podcast invites leaders, founders, and everyday changemakers into honest conversations about the challenges that shape us—and the strength we forge through them. These aren’t surface-level interviews. They’re vulnerable, grounded, and real. We talk about the losses, pivots, breakthroughs, and decisions that transformed not just someone’s path, but their character and lives. Because it’s not what happened to you or what you’ve accomplished that defines you—it’s who you choose to become, and what you create from the hard things. Every episode goes beyond the story to offer tools, strategies, and insights—especially from experts—to help you grow stronger in your own life. You’ll leave with not just inspiration, but practical ways to take your next step. If you’re ready to grow through what you go through, lead with heart, and live with deeper courage, this show is for you.
Episodes
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Heart Strong, Jessica Lindberg interviews Dr. Donna Pisani, a pastor and Bible teacher with over 40 years of ministry experience. They discuss Donna's new book, 'Entrusted to Lead,' focusing on leadership, particularly for women, and the distinction between being entrusted with leadership versus feeling entitled to it. Donna shares her personal journey of overcoming insecurity and the importance of recognizing the gifts we have been entrusted with. The conversation also touches on the significance of self-leadership, navigating life's crossroads, and the power of speaking resurrection into our lives and the lives of others. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the need for confidence, curiosity, and the courage to embrace our unique callings.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Mentorship
02:02 Entrustment vs. Entitlement in Leadership
06:05 Personal Challenges and Perspective Shifts
09:56 The Importance of Self-Leadership
12:05 Navigating Crossroads and Curiosity
17:52 Speaking Resurrection into Our Lives
26:57 Building Confidence and Overcoming Insecurity
36:52 Offering and Surrender in Leadership
38:58 Living in Light of Eternity
40:57 Cultivating an Abundance Mindset
44:39 Learning from Vulnerability and Mistakes
48:55 Women in Leadership: Confidence and Humility
59:52 The Importance of Process in Growth
Get Donna’s NEW Book: Entrusted to Lead
Follow Donna: https://www.instagram.com/donnapisani/
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now take what’s left and live it properly.” Marcus Aurelius
In this episode, Jessica and her husband, Erik openly discuss the process they went through over the last couple of years as Erik chose to leave his corporate job of 15+ years and begin his own law practice. They discuss how our careers are so deeply intertwined with our personal lives. They also discuss how the death of Ethan and the illness of their son Bodey impact Erik’s career and their family’s choices.
Erik shares the five stages he went through to become honest with himself about the need to change and then his personal work to get to the other side.
This episode is vulnerable and transparent, offering a perspective that will encourage and equip you to make bold changes in your life.
Some key takeaways:
- Short life, do what excites you.
- Being honest and clear about what you want. Success is having a goal and working towards it each day.
- If you don’t have a goal, someone else will make one for you.
- Change is hard, but staying where we are is ultimately harder.
- The challenges in our lives are an opportunity to grow.
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
In this conversation, Jessica Lindberg and Sarah Freiesleben explore the complexities of systemic change, emphasizing the importance of healthy conflict within teams, the challenges of navigating entrenched systems, and the need for curiosity and nuance in discussions. They discuss the moral implications of our current societal issues and the need for self-leadership and personal values to drive change. The conversation highlights the importance of seeing individuals as more than just their viewpoints and the collective responsibility we share in addressing systemic problems.
Sarah and Jessica explore narratives in political and organizational contexts, the challenges of speaking up within organizations, and the importance of embracing nuance and diverse perspectives. They discuss the characteristics of effective leaders, the role of courage in decision-making, and how sensitivity can be a strength in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity, respectful disagreement, and the value of understanding oneself and others in fostering a positive organizational culture.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Systemic Change
03:03 The Role of Healthy Conflict in Teams
05:51 Navigating Change in Complex Systems
09:05 Incentives and Resistance to Change
11:47 Controlling What You Can Control
14:55 The Importance of Curiosity and Nuance
17:53 The Moral Issue of Our Time
21:06 Embracing Paradox and Complexity
23:58 Influencing Change at a Local Level
26:57 The Meta-Crisis and Collective Responsibility
30:06 Self-Leadership and Personal Values
33:07 Seeing People as Individuals
38:08 The Power of Narratives in Politics and Work
41:28 The Dilemma of Speaking Up in Organizations
43:01 Embracing Nuance and Diverse Perspectives
45:31 Conflict Resolution and Finding Common Ground
50:18 Characteristics of Effective Leaders
55:03 Courage in Leadership and Decision-Making
01:02:40 The Role of Sensitivity and Embodiment in Leadership
You can follow Sarah on LinkedIn
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
In this episode, Jess sits down with Dr. Jeremy DeWeerdt, a dynamic leader and Senior Pastor of City First Church in Rockford, IL. Jeremy is known for blending faith and culture in innovative ways. Drawing from his popular sermon series "At The Movies," we explore how fear, anxiety, and personal challenges can shape us but don't define us. Jeremy shares wisdom on renewing the mind, replacing negativity with faith, and the concept of living a greater story.
As we navigate a time filled with uncertainty—politically, socially, and economically—Jeremy speaks to the role of faith, the church, and leadership in today’s culture. This episode also delves into leadership lessons he’s learned from years of pastoring a diverse community and how to lead with principles and courage.
Finally, we talk about Gen Z—how Jeremy’s research for his doctorate offers key insights into this generation and what parents and leaders can take from it to guide and support young people today.
Follow Jeremy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremydeweerdt/
Follow City First Church: https://www.instagram.com/cityfirstchurch
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
In this inspiring conversation, Jessica Long, the most decorated active Paralympian in the United States, shares her journey from adoption in Russia to becoming a champion swimmer. She discusses the challenges she faced, including numerous surgeries and the struggle for self-acceptance, while emphasizing the importance of resilience, mindset, and the power of vulnerability. Jessica also highlights her advocacy work for the Paralympic movement and the need for greater awareness and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Her story encourages others to embrace challenges and pursue their dreams with determination and grace.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jessica Long and Her Journey
02:57 Overcoming Adversity: Adoption and Early Life
05:59 The Power of Sports: Finding Freedom in Swimming
09:00 Resilience Through Surgeries and Challenges
12:02 The Impact of Mindset and Determination
15:00 Navigating Identity: Adoption and Self-Perception
17:52 Faith and Healing: A Personal Journey
21:02 Motivation and the Pursuit of Excellence
24:10 The Role of Advocacy in the Paralympic Movement
27:02 Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth
29:54 Visualizing Success: The Mental Game
33:06 Future Aspirations and Legacy in Swimming
36:02 Vulnerability as Strength: Encouragement for Others
38:49 Advice for Young Athletes: Commitment and Goals
41:58 Reflections on Hardships and Personal Growth
Follow Jessica Long on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicatatianalong/
Follow Jessica on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicatatianalong
Order her new book, Beyond The Surface: A Gold Medalists Guide to Finding and Loving Yourself
Learn more about Jessica: https://www.jessicalong.com/
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Heart Strong, host Jess Lindberg interviews Lena Taylor, a visionary content creator and entrepreneur behind the YouTube channel Flipping Gorgeous. They discuss the parallels between home renovation and personal transformation, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, self-awareness, and courage in pursuing one's passions. Lena shares her journey from running a cosmetic brand to finding her true calling in home renovation, highlighting the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. The conversation also touches on the significance of building a strong foundation in life and the power of community support in overcoming adversity.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Lena Taylor and Flipping Gorgeous
02:08 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship
06:53 The Journey from Cosmetics to Home Renovation
11:38 Finding Clarity During the Pandemic
16:44 The Power of Authenticity in Content Creation
20:35 Listening to Your Inner Voice
26:11 Building a Platform: Steps to Success
34:42 Navigating YouTube Growth
39:01 Renovating Your Life: A Deeper Connection
46:52 Establishing a Strong Foundation
51:02 Personal Story: Overcoming Adversity
56:18 Encouragement for Women Facing Challenges
Follow Lena on Instagram: @LenaBTaylor
Lena’s YouTube: @FlippingGorgeous
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Follow Lena on Instagram: @LenaBTaylor
Lena’s YouTube: @FlippingGorgeous
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
In this conversation, Jess Lindberg sits down with Ethan Getchell, a men's mental health advocate, graduate student, and speaker, to discuss his personal journey and how it changed the course of his life. Ethan shares his experience of losing his brother to suicide and how it led him to pivot from a career in commercial real estate to pursuing a master's in social work. They explore the challenges of grief and the surprising gifts that come from it. They also discuss the importance of listening and vulnerability in supporting others and standing on your own story.
Ethan emphasizes the need to break societal stereotypes and embrace the full human experience. In this conversation, Jess and Ethan discuss the importance of vulnerability and emotional intelligence in men's mental health. They explore the idea of healthy masculinity, which involves being strong and caring for oneself and others. They also discuss being a Gen Z Man today and the challenges facing this generation. They emphasize the importance of creating a safe and loving environment for young men, where they can explore their emotions and feel valued for who they are, not just for their accomplishments.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:25 The Tragic Loss of Ethan's Brother
08:11 The Power of Listening and Journaling
15:37 The Impact of Losing a Sibling
19:00 Comparing Grief and Acknowledging Individual Experiences
21:26 Surprises and Gifts of Grief
26:47 Standing on Your Story and Making Career Changes
29:38 Embracing the Full Human Experience
32:26 Understanding Your Why and Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People
36:16 Challenging Toxic Mentalities and Embracing Emotional Intelligence
41:27 Redefining Strength and Masculinity
46:06 The Malleability of Gen Z and Charting a New Path
49:28 Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment for Young Men
55:11 The Power of Active Listening and Reflecting
Connect with Ethan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethangetchell/
Hire Ethan to speak: https://sites.google.com/view/ethangetchell/home
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Dr. Ben Baran, an organizational psychologist and management professor, discusses adversity and leadership. He defines crucibles as unexpectedly hard experiences that have the potential to transform us. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that suffering is universal and that we are not alone in our challenges. Dr. Baran also explores the synergy between social science and ancient wisdom, highlighting the value of integrating evidence-based research with philosophical and theological insights. In terms of leadership, he emphasizes the need for leaders to have a deep sense of purpose and strong values, as well as the willingness to make tough decisions even when they are unpopular. He also discusses the challenges of developing courageous leadership and the importance of character development in children.
The conversation covers various themes, including leadership, self-leadership, trust in leaders, the importance of institutions, the role of the U.S. Constitution, and the power of service and making an impact. The guests share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for self-awareness, values, and character development in leadership. They discuss the challenges and blessings of raising children and the importance of instilling values and a sense of agency in them. The conversation also touches on the significance of September 11th and the impact of personal crucibles on shaping individuals and their ability to empathize and help others.
00:00 Introduction: Adversity and Leadership
03:31 Crucibles: Transforming Through Unexpected Challenges
16:19 The Synergy Between Social Science and Ancient Wisdom
31:22 Developing Courageous Leadership: Purpose, Values, and Tough Decisions
36:45 Character Development: Fostering Courageous Leadership in Children
41:03 The Foundation of Leadership: Self-Leadership and Values
43:19 The Importance of Trust in Leaders and Institutions
49:14 Raising Courageous Leaders: Instilling Values and Agency in Children
59:41 The Impact of Personal Crucibles on Empathy and Influence
01:10:47 Service and Making an Impact: Bringing Joy and Inspiring Others
Follow Dr. Baran and check out his Substack: https://www.benbaran.com/
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Jess Lindberg encourages you to listen to this episode not just for details of this inspiring story but also as a model for what you, too, can do when faced with an insurmountable problem.
Dr. Tracy Dixon Salazar, a mother, neuroscientist, geneticist, and patient advocate, shares her journey of discovering a novel precision therapy for her daughter's Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). LGS is a collection of symptoms characterized by seizure onset before the age of 18, multiple types of seizures, developmental delay or intellectual disability, and specific brainwave patterns. Tracy's research focused on understanding the wiring defect in the brain that leads to LGS and the possibility of rewiring to improve the condition. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of diseases and the need for more research in developmental epilepsies.
Tracy's story is a testament to the power of persistence and the impact a mother's love can have in driving change. Tracy Dixon-Salazar and Jess Lindberg discuss the e role of caregivers in finding treatments for rare diseases. Tracy shares her personal journey of discovering a treatment for her daughter's epilepsy through genetic sequencing and the off-label use of a calcium blocker drug. They emphasize the need for caregivers to be tenacious, curious, and advocate for their loved ones' health. They also discuss the challenges and underappreciation caregivers face and the importance of empowering women in caregiving roles. Tracy Dixon-Salazar discusses the importance of recognizing the expertise of caregivers and the need for collaboration between caregivers and medical professionals. She emphasizes the need for education, empowerment, and support for families living with rare diseases like Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS). Tracy also highlights the importance of advocacy and the work being done by the LGS Foundation to provide resources and support to families.
Chapters
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tracy Dixon Salazar
04:11 The Wiring Defect in the Brain: LGS
08:35 The Importance of Understanding Underlying Causes
19:50 Unraveling the Impact of De Novo Mutations
22:12 The Journey of Genetic Sequencing and Treatment Discovery
26:05 Empowering and Valuing the Role of Caregivers
29:25 The Need for Knowledge and Expertise in Rare Diseases
42:02 The Care Expert
44:2 1Lived Experience Experts
50:56 About LGS Treatment Kits
54:11 Living in a Constant State of Crisis
57:22 Throwing Ourselves Against the Wall
Follow Tracy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tracy-dixon-salazar-5162921b/
LGS Foundation: https://www.lgsfoundation.org/
Read Tracy’s Story: https://www.today.com/health/disease/mom-gets-phd-daughters-epilepsy-rcna148783
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Dr. Lee Warren is a neurosurgeon, Iraq War Veteran, and author. In 2013, his son Mitch died. In this episode, Dr. Warren discusses his experiences with grief, faith, and the interplay between science and spirituality. He shares his journey of healing from PTSD and the importance of facing and unpacking emotional baggage.
Dr. Warren emphasizes the need to find purpose in our pain and not let it define us. He also explores the difference between our brains and minds, challenging the idea that we are limited by our genetics or brain chemistry. Instead, he encourages listeners to embrace the power of neuroplasticity and the ability to change our thoughts and beliefs. Dr. Lee Warren shares his concept of “self-brain surgery,” which gives us the power to change our thoughts and shares the impact the thoughts we think have on our brain and body. He explains the difference between our mind and brain and says that when we think differently, our brain changes how it acts. He also discusses the science of epigenetics, which shows that we control how our genes are switched on and off. By changing our thinking, we can switch certain genes on and off, leading to better responses to stress and trauma. Dr. Warren intersperses the conversation with his own journey of faith and healing.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Lee Warren
08:07 Unpacking Emotional Baggage and Finding Purpose in Pain
13:23 The Power of Neuroplasticity and Changing Our Thoughts
19:46 Grief as a Refining and Informing Process
31:02 The Interplay Between Science and Spirituality
34:55 The Power of Changing Your Thoughts
39:20 The Science of Epigenetics and Gene Switching
47:02 Retraining Your Brain for Resilience
52:53 Preparing for Difficult Times
Dr. Warren’s Website: https://wleewarrenmd.com/
Follow Dr. Warren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleewarren/
Dr. Warren’s Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-lee-warren-podcast/id863481502
Follow Dr. Warren on Substack (this is a great place to get his content):
https://wleewarrenmd.com/newsletter/
Dr. Warren’s Books: https://wleewarrenmd.com/books/
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective