Episodes

What if your biggest challenge became your greatest strength? Amy Truesdale — Paralympic gold medalist and trailblazer in Para taekwondo — joins Spirit of Gratitude to share her powerful journey from childhood adversity to standing atop the podium at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Born without a left forearm, Amy began taekwondo at age seven for self-defense. Over the years, she transformed personal challenges into a decorated career, including multiple World and European titles. In this ep...

What if your greatest struggle was also the key to unlocking empathy, leadership, and resilience? Amanda Talty — President & CEO of the Tourette Association of America — joins Spirit of Gratitude for a powerful and eye-opening conversation on Tourette Syndrome, self-advocacy, and embracing what makes you different. In this episode, Amanda breaks down the myths and misconceptions around Tourette, revealing the wide spectrum of symptoms and lived experiences. She opens up about the emotiona...

What does it take to lead a team flying 18 inches apart at 700 mph — and still stay grounded? “Boss” Gil Rud — former Flight Leader of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels — joins Spirit of Gratitude to share his incredible journey from a one-room schoolhouse in North Dakota to piloting the lead jet in one of the most elite aerobatic teams in the world. In this gripping conversation, Gil opens up about growing up with humble beginnings, overcoming bullying, and the mental fortitude it took to fly inche...

What if getting lost was the only way to truly find yourself? Luke Russert — acclaimed journalist and New York Times bestselling author of Look for Me There — joins Spirit of Gratitude for a deeply reflective conversation on self-awareness, grief, and the spiritual clarity that can only come from stepping into the unknown. After leaving a high-profile career at NBC News, Luke embarked on a three-year global journey that transformed his understanding of identity, gratitude, and purpose. Thro...