
EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward
EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward is a motivational podcast hosted by Zander Sprague, a bestselling author and licensed professional clinical counselor. Each episode features interviews with people who have overcome challenges to achieve remarkable goals. The show offers practical resources and insights for entrepreneurs, leaders, authors, athletes, and anyone seeking to maximize their potential. Listeners learn how to plan, achieve, and enjoy the journey toward their own EPIC goals.
Episodes

He Had A Stutter. Now He Teaches People To Speak With Confidence With Peter George
Imagine being afraid to speak your entire childhood, and then making public speaking your career.On this episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander talks with public speaking coach, speaker, and author Peter George, who grew up with a lisp and stutter and rarely spoke in school, only to build a career helping others become calm, confident, and credible communicators.Peter shares the lesson

You Always Have A Choice - Even When It Doesn't Feel Like It With Rosie Aiello
On this episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander talks with Rosie Aiello, co-founder of the Love Is Kind Network, about her extraordinary journey from decades in an abusive marriage to freedom, healing, and helping other women reclaim their lives.Rosie shares how she slowly recognized the abuse, secretly planned an international escape with her daughter, and found the courage to move for

Stop Waiting For The Perfect Time—It's Never Coming With Hadley Nightingale
What are you waiting for before you finally take that first step?On this episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander talks with New Zealand entrepreneur and property expert Hadley Nightingale about mistakes, uncertainty, analysis paralysis, and why waiting for the perfect moment can keep you stuck.Hadley shares how an early real estate decision sent him on an unexpected journey from farming

Stop Chasing The Next Achievement And Start Living With Art Blanchford
What happens when you achieve the success you spent years chasing—and discover it still isn’t enough?On this episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander talks with executive coach and Life in Transition host Art Blanchford about achievement, burnout, purpose, and finding meaning beyond the next accomplishment.Art shares his remarkable journey from running multibillion-dollar businesses and

Your Brain Is Trying To Protect You—But Is It Keeping You Stuck? With Dr. Albert Bramante
What if the biggest obstacle standing between you and your next big opportunity is you? On this episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague talks with Dr. Albert Bramante, talent agent, psychology professor, and performance mindset coach, about fear, self-sabotage, perfectionism, and the stories that keep us stuck.Albert shares his unexpected journey from psychology to the entertain

Bullied, Asthmatic, And Unstoppable: Adam Strong’s Epic Journey
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur, author, and business strategist Adam Strong, whose journey began with an unlikely business—collecting and selling lost golf balls at just 11 years old. Despite growing up with financial hardship, bullying, alopecia, and asthma, Adam developed the resilience that later helped him compete alongs

She Beat Cancer…Then Lost Her Husband Six Weeks Later With Kim Sorrelle
In this heartfelt episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur, author, and speaker Kim Sorrelle to discuss resilience, love, and finding purpose after unimaginable loss. After building multiple successful businesses, Kim faced an unexpected battle with breast cancer. Just four months later, her husband was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away

Kicked Out At 18. Built A $40 Million Company.
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with entrepreneur, author, and EndoDNA co-founder Len May to explore a remarkable journey of resilience, innovation, and purpose. After immigrating to the United States as a child, being diagnosed with ADD, and finding himself homeless at 18, Len refused to let adversity define his future. His unconventional path led

What Therapists Wish More People Understood About Mental Health With Dr. Gregory Obert
In this thought-provoking episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Greg Obert for an engaging conversation about mental health, leadership stress, trauma, and the evolving role of therapy in today’s world. Drawing from more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Greg shares insights into anxiety, emotional regulation, executive stress, and the i

From Homeless And Addicted To Building A Global Community With Bryan Blackmon
It’s possible to reconstruct your entire life even when you’ve reached absolute rock bottom, and Overcoming Deep Addiction is the first decisive step. Host Zander Sprague sits down with social media creator and recovery advocate Bryan Blackmon to unpack his journey from homelessness to long-term sobriety. He describes how a single, powerful moment in front of a bathroom mirror shifted his mindset

You Are More Than Your Diagnosis: Jeffrey Bone’s Epic Journey
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with chronic illness coach Jeffrey Bone to explore resilience, identity, and what happens when life takes an unexpected turn. After exposure to black mold triggered a cascade of debilitating symptoms, Jeffrey spent years searching for answers before being diagnosed with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID), a rare im

The 99-Pack Of Beer That Broke The Internet With T. Christian Helms
In this creative and insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with T. Christian Helms, founder of Austin-based creative agency Helms Workshop, to explore the intersection of branding, curiosity, and innovation. Christian shares his winding path from journalism student to award-winning creative director, revealing how some of the best ideas emerge when you sto

Finding Your Voice: Confidence, Identity, And The Fear Of Being Seen With Wolfe Lanier
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with voice and communication coach Wolfe Lanier, whose journey from child actor to public speaking expert led him to explore one powerful question: Why are people so afraid to use their voice? Wolfe shares his experiences navigating stage fright, rejection, identity, and vulnerability while pursuing a career in acting

Why Conquering Yourself Matters More Than Conquering The Mountain With Dr. Jack Groppel
In this deeply inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with performance expert, author, and leadership pioneer Dr. Jack Groppel, who talks about the beauty of conquering yourself through resilience, reinvention, and purpose. From a painful childhood and relentless drive for achievement to becoming a nationally recognized tennis coach, sports scientist, entrep

How One Simple $15 Filter Is Fighting Cholera, Malaria, And Child Death With Kurt Avery
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur and humanitarian Kurt Avery, founder of Sawyer Products, whose innovations are transforming access to clean water around the globe. What began with outdoor products and water filtration evolved into a mission that has already impacted more than 40 million people in 80 countries. Kurt shares how

Success Didn’t Make Him Happy—So He Changed Everything With Stefanos Koutsoumpis
In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with men’s coach Stefanos Koutsoubis, who helps men break free from burnout, depression, and the illusion of success. Stefanos shares his personal journey—from achieving academic and professional milestones, including a PhD and corporate career, to realizing that external success didn’t create internal happiness. Toget

Fear Of Success Is Real—And It Might Be Holding You Back With Greg Bennick
In this energizing episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with keynote speaker, author, and performer Greg Bennick, whose career began with a simple mistake that turned into a life-changing path. What started as a missed coin-collecting class led Greg to discover juggling—and ultimately a lifelong passion for engaging audiences around the world. Greg shares insights from his

From Rock Bottom To Creative Purpose: Nick McGowan’s Journey Back To Himself
In this raw and powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with creative strategist and podcast expert Nick McGowan for a deeply honest conversation about identity, purpose, and transformation. Nick shares his journey from childhood struggles and emotional disconnect to building a successful career that ultimately left him feeling empty and lost. After hitting

Marathons, Ironman, And The Power Of Starting Late With Jeffrey Weiss
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with endurance athlete and author Jeffrey Weiss, whose journey proves it’s never too late to rewrite your story. Starting with his first 10K at age 48, Jeffrey went on to complete marathons, ultra races—including a brutal 72-mile run—and multiple Ironman competitions in his late 50s and early 60s. He shares

Think Like A Fighter Pilot: The Secret To Staying Ahead In Life And Business With Christian “Boo” Boucousis
In this high-impact episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with former fighter pilot Christian “Boo” Boucousis, who now helps leaders navigate overwhelm and thrive in the AI-driven world. Boo shares how the fighter pilot mindset—built on clarity, discipline, and constant reflection—translates directly into business and life. From operating at high speed in the co

45 Years Of Caregiving – And The Aha Moment That Changed Everything With Debbie Weiss
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with author and speaker Debbie Weiss, whose life was shaped by over four decades of caregiving. From supporting her father after a devastating stroke at age 17, to raising a son with special needs, to caring for her terminally ill husband, Debbie shares the emotional toll—and resilience—behind her journey. A

From Baptist Pastor To FBI Agent: Eric Robinson’s Epic Career Pivot
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Eric Robinson, a recently retired FBI agent whose career path is anything but ordinary. Eric shares how he went from serving as a Baptist pastor to spending 24 years in federal law enforcement. He discusses the surprising reasons behind his career shift, the reality of life inside the FBI, and the le

Work Rewritten: How To Navigate Careers In The AI Era With Sam Alvita
In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with career strategist Sam Alvita, founder of Work Rewritten, to unpack the rapidly evolving world of modern employment. From shrinking skill lifespans to AI-driven disruption, Sam explains why traditional career advice no longer works—and what to do instead. They discuss layoffs, the emotional toll of job

From Schoolteacher To Circumnavigator: Alison Gieschen’s Epic Leap
In this breathtaking episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with former schoolteacher and author Alison Gieschen, who sold everything with her husband and moved aboard a 43-foot sailboat to circumnavigate the globe. Eight years, 49 countries, four continents—and countless epic unexpecteds—later, Alison shares stories of 20-foot waves, ripped sails, Chinese fishin

50 State High Points, One Kidney: Dr. Matt Harmody’s Record-Breaking Mission
In this extraordinary episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with retired emergency physician, author, and living kidney donor Dr. Matt Harmody, whose story redefines what it means to live with purpose. Matt shares how he became part of a five-person team that set a Guinness World Record by summiting the highest point in all 50 U.S. states in record time – after

Rest Is Not Laziness: Dorota Kosiorek On Neuroscience, Leadership, And Balance
In this thought-provoking episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander is joined by Dorota Kosiorek, a go-to-market leader in AI, certified neuroscience-based coach, and writer from Poland. Dorota shares her journey from high-pressure consulting to a more intentional life built around rest, boundaries, and sustainable performance. Together, they explore why hustle culture misunderstands

3,102 Miles On A Tandem: Trust, Trauma, And Taking The Road Forward With Teri M. Brown
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with author and podcaster Teri M. Brown, whose life changed when she and her husband rode 3,102 miles across the United States on a tandem bicycle. What began as an adventure became a powerful journey of healing after Teri escaped an emotionally abusive marriage and doubted her own worth. She

From Burnout To Bandwidth: The Doctor’s Exit Plan With Dr. Maureen Gibbons
Emergency medicine veteran Dr. Maureen Gibbons joins Zander Sprague to talk about what happens when your calling becomes your whole identity, and what happens when you finally. After 15 years in the ER and 13 years at a Level 2 trauma center, Dr. Moe made the terrifying choice to execute her exit plan and step away, even though she still loved the chaos. She talks about her mission to he

Volun-Vacation? Globe Aware’s Kimberly Haley-Coleman On Adventure With Purpose
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder of Globe Aware, an organization offering short-term adventure with purpose through “adventure in service” trips in 26 countries. Kimberly explains how their one-week, fully coordinated experiences combine meaningful hands-on service—like building homes, installing concret

From CNN To Healing Words: John DeDakis On Grief, Writing, And Resilience
In this moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague is joined by John DeDakis, former CNN editor for Wolf Blitzer, longtime journalist, novelist, writing coach, and motivational speaker. Together, they talk about grief, purpose, and healing. John shares the heartbreaking losses of his sister to suicide and his son to a heroin overdose, and reflects on how those experie

Every Mile Matters: Ironman, Cancer, And The Fight You Never See Coming With Dr. Jeff Reynolds
In this powerful and deeply human episode, Zander Sprague sits down with Dr. Jeff Reynolds, nonprofit CEO, endurance athlete, author, and two-time cancer survivor. Jeff shares how training for Ironman Florida unknowingly prepared him for the hardest races of his life: prostate cancer and stage 3B colorectal cancer. From finding out he had cancer via text message to enduring surgery, chemo, ra

Lazy Leadership, Hard Truths, And The Power Of Intentional Growth With Corinne Gavlinski
In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with executive coach and former corporate leader Corinne Gavlinski for a candid conversation about leadership, identity, and reinvention. Corinne shares her journey through multiple career pivots, unexpected layoffs, and the identity jolts that come from tying self-worth too tightly to professional ti

Running Into The Unknown: Teresa Bowser On Mindset, Mountains & Massive Miles
In this electrifying episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with ultra-runner and adventure coach Teresa Bowser, a woman who says “yes” to the kind of challenges most people sprint away from. Teresa shares how she transformed her life—from heavy partying to heavy mileage—by discovering Spartan Races, then trail running, and ultimately tackling her self-designed Project

Lights, Camera, Bookings: The New Rules Of Speaking Success With Cam Beaudoin
In this high-energy episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with video marketing expert Cam Beaudoin, whose mission is simple: help speakers get booked by mastering the power of video. Cam shares how he discovered a massive gap in the speaking industry—experts want more stages, but few are willing to watch their own footage or create compelling reels. So he buil

Move To Heal: Lisa Manca On The Power Of Dance Therapy
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander reconnects with fellow LPCC Lisa Manca, a board-certified Dance/Movement Therapist helping clients heal through the wisdom of the body. Lisa breaks down what dance therapy really is—no, it’s not interpretive dance with your therapist—and explains how movement, mirroring, and somatic awareness unlock emotions that words o

From Therapy To Toughness: Lessons From Navy SEAL Training With Michael Ostrolenk
In this powerful and insightful episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with Michael Ostrolenk, a psychotherapist-turned-human optimization coach whose 30-year career spans transpersonal psychology, somatic therapy, and elite Navy SEAL training programs. Michael shares lessons from decades of studying self-mastery, martial arts, and mental toughness—revealing how true s

Dressing For Success—Powered By AI And Epic Determination With Anya Cheng
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander chats with Anya Cheng, founder and CEO of Taelor—a groundbreaking fashion-tech company using artificial intelligence to style busy professionals. From her beginnings as a reporter in Taiwan to her work at McDonald’s, Target, and Meta, Anya’s journey is one of relentless persistence, bold pivots, and saying yes to oppo

From Soldier To Survivor: Naomi Reynolds’ Epic Journey Of Resilience
In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander speaks with Naomi Reynolds—Army veteran, author, and advocate—for an unfiltered conversation about courage, trauma, and triumph. Naomi shares her extraordinary life story, from serving proudly in the military to facing the devastating realities of sexual assault and homelessness, and ultimately finding pur

Six Lives, One Spirit: How Cyndee Beat The Odds Again And Again
In this profoundly moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes poet and survivor Cyndee Dhalai, whose life story redefines resilience. From growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, challenging cultural expectations, and facing ostracism for speaking her truth, to flatlining five times and living allergic to all medication, Cyndee’s journey is nothing short of miracu

Parenting, Publishing, And Performing: Troy Horne’s Not-Yet Dreams
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Troy Horne—musician, Broadway actor, author, and dedicated dad—to explore a life built on bold decisions. From driving to Los Angeles with $1,500 and no plan, to signing a record deal, touring with legends, and starring in Rent on Broadway, Troy’s story proves the power of simply saying “yes” to your

Effort Over Results: Rethinking Success With Quinn Magnuson
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague is joined by former CFL athlete, teacher, and executive coach Quinn Magnuson to explore a game-changing philosophy: Effort Over Results. Drawing from his professional sports background, coaching experience, and leadership training, Quinn reveals why focusing solely on wins and losses sets us up for burnout, wh

Episode 100 Special: Turning Goals Into Reality With Danny Lehr
For the 100th episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague celebrates this epic milestone with Danny Lehr—author, coach, and master of making extraordinary achievement accessible to everyone. Danny shares how he went from a PE teacher to building businesses, training alongside Olympians, and even transforming a used beach cruiser into a bike capable of conquering 72 miles arou

Belief, Grit, And Focus: The Real Game-Changers In Sports And Life With Sandy Cohan
In this motivating episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague talks with Coach Sandy Cohan, a former hockey player turned mindset development coach and author. After years of coaching elite athletes – from Olympians to college players – Sandy discovered that skill alone does not separate the good from the great. The real difference? Mindset. Together, they explore the power

Breath, Body, And Breakthroughs: Angel Howard On Somatic Therapy
In this enlightening episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague speaks with somatic movement therapist and author Angel Howard about the powerful connection between body and mind. With decades of experience, Angel explains how somatic therapy addresses unresolved trauma and stress stored in our tissues, shaping emotions, thoughts, and even life patterns. From breathwork

From Radiation To Revelation: Dr. Matt Kutz On Living Epic
In this inspiring episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes Dr. Matt Kutz, professor, author, global leader, and prostate cancer survivor. Matt shares his extraordinary journey from athletic training and academic research to writing leadership books that reached Fortune 500 companies worldwide. But his most powerful lessons came after a life-altering diagnosis. Dur

The Creativity Explorer: Lessons From 75 Countries With Fredrik Haren
In this thought-provoking episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Fredrik Haren, self-described “Creativity Explorer,” who has spent 25 years interviewing creative minds across 75 countries. From jazz guitarists who play “imaginary instruments” to watchmakers who solve design problems in their dreams, Fredrik reveals the surprising and powerful ways creativ

Addiction, Recovery, And Renewal: Trent Carter’s Mission In New Mexico
In this powerful episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague speaks with Trent Carter, board-certified nurse practitioner, addiction medicine specialist, and founder of Renew Health in New Mexico. Trent shares how his passion for helping others led him to build a network of clinics dedicated to treating substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders in some of

One Step At A Time: Hiking, Healing, And Hope At 72 With Rand Timmerman
In this unforgettable episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with retired attorney, Marine Corps veteran, and author Rand Timmerman to explore his extraordinary hiking adventure on the Appalachian Trail. At 72, Rand and his brother set out to conquer over 2,000 miles of rugged wilderness, facing snowstorms, relentless climbs, falls that nearly ended the jo

From Stroke To Strength: Trevor Schade’s Epic Reset
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with serial entrepreneur Trevor Schade, whose life was transformed by what he calls a “total life implosion.” Within 18 months, Trevor underwent an epic reset: he endured divorce, career loss, real estate setbacks, and two strokes – events that shattered his belief in control and reshaped his outlook on li

From Cringe Footage To Camera Confidence With Marianne Hickman
In this candid and laughter-filled episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with speaking coach and facilitator Marianne Hickman to unpack the real challenges of professional speaking—both on stage and in the virtual world. They tackle the sting (and value) of feedback, the art of reading a room you can’t see, and the mental gymnastics of staying engaged wit

From Gorillas To Global Good: Morgan DeNicola’s Epic Journey
In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with philanthropist and global changemaker Morgan DeNicola. From running her family’s foundation to serving as Vice Chair of an NGO that partners with the United Nations, Morgan’s work spans humanitarian awards, global health, cultural diplomacy, and conservation. She shares transformative stories from her tra

Secrets Of A TEDx Organizer: How To Make Your Idea Stand Out With Juanita Wheeler
In this powerhouse episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with TEDx Brisbane curator and public speaking coach Juanita Wheeler to unpack the art—and science—of persuasive communication. Juanita shares her personal journey from self-described “screaming introvert” to global speaking strategist, revealing the deep research and psychology behind becoming a comp

From Snow Peaks To Brain Surgery: The Epic Life Of Jennie Milton
In this thrilling episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes Jennie “AdrenaJen” Milton—a world-traveling adventurer whose life reads like an action movie. From heli-skiing down remote Alaskan peaks to surviving a near-fatal crevasse fall, Jennie shares what it takes to face fear head-on. But her most epic challenge didn’t come on the mountain—it came in the form of

From Cubicle To Global Citizen: An Epic Leap With Tsvety Roo
In this inspiring episode of EPIC Begins with One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes solo travel coach and global citizen and storyteller Tsvety Roo. From leaving behind a corporate life to living in 22 countries and counting, Tsvety shares the empowering truth about traveling alone – and thriving while doing it. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just dreaming of your first solo

Fire, Family, And The Fight To Come Home: A Firefighter’s Unthinkable Journey With AJ Otjen
What does it take to survive the unthinkable? In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with author and professor AJ Otjen to share the raw, harrowing, and ultimately inspiring story behind his book, Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen. When a wall of fire swallowed Dan during what should have been a routine

Boundaries Or Burnout? Why Pleasing Everyone Is Killing Your Joy With Zoia Ye (ZY)
Are you burned out… or just chasing someone else’s dream? This week on Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with success catalyst Zoia Ye (ZY) for a brutally honest, no-fluff conversation about authenticity, boundaries, and why so many of us feel stuck in lives that don’t fit. Zoia shares her personal journey of surviving domestic abuse, finding her true voice, and

Stop Ignoring Your Gut: How To Finally Trust Your Inner Superpower With Sarah Gregg And Jill Ritchie
Do you ever feel like you know something deep down… but you ignore it anyway? You’re not alone. In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague is joined by Sarah Gregg and Jill Ritchie, co-founders of The Intuitive Psychology Association, to explore why we’ve become so disconnected from our intuition—and how to reclaim it. You’ll learn why modern life

When Life Breaks You, Break Through: The EPIC Way To Heal With Mark Collins
In this moving episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague is joined by special guest Mark Collins for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, and the journey to reclaim purpose after profound loss. Mark shares his personal story of navigating sibling loss and how it reshaped his outlook on life, purpose, and resilience. Together, Zander and Mark explore what i

Manifestation, Self-Worth, And The Joy Of 'Not Yet' With Manal El-Ramly
What if your purpose isn’t something to search for—but something you already are? In this transformative episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes engineer-turned-spiritual guide Manal El-Ramly for a soul-expanding conversation about self-worth, manifestation, and embracing the power of “not yet.” Manal blends a sharp analytical mind with deep spiritual insigh

Beyond The Handbook: Real Talk About Leadership, Loss, And Listening With Traci Austin
What does it take to create a workplace where people feel truly seen, supported, and inspired to grow? In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with Traci Austin—HR strategist, leadership expert, and founder of Elevated Talent Consulting—to explore the intersection of people strategy and compassionate leadership.With over 20 years in HR

Overcoming Challenges & Achieving Your Dreams With Rhonda Britten
Fear can hold us back from the life we truly want, but taking just one step forward can change everything. In this episode, we dive into how small, intentional actions lead to lasting transformation. Special guest Rhonda Britten, Emmy Award winner and founder of Fearless Living, joins the conversation to share her powerful insights on overcoming fear, building confidence, and embracing p

The EPIC Mindset: Transform Challenges Into Triumphs With Gina Economopoulos
Taking the first step toward change can feel intimidating, especially when navigating the overwhelming weight of overcoming loss. But what if that first step, no matter how small, is the key to unlocking an EPIC life? This episode explores that very question as End-of-Life Doula Gina Economopoulos shares her deeply personal journey through grief and adversity. It's a narrative woven with threads o

The Power Of One Step: Transforming Your Life With Action With Shannon Russell
Taking the first step toward your dreams can feel overwhelming, but it’s the key to creating an EPIC life. Just ask today’s guest and career transition coach, Shannon Russell, as she tells us more about gearing up for our second act. In this episode, she joins Zander Sprague to explore how small, intentional actions can lead to incredible transformations. Whether you’re facing challenges, fee

Food, Fitness, And Freedom: The Key To Sustainable Weight Loss With Esther Avant
In this Epic Begins With One Step Forward episode, host Zander Sprague sits down with bestselling author and health expert Esther Avant to uncover the secrets to sustainable weight loss and lasting wellness. They dive into mindset shifts, breaking free from all-or-nothing thinking, and why structure is key to success. Esther shares practical tips for balancing nutrition, fitness, and rea

Epic Connections: Building Strong Professional & Personal Networks With Michael Morgan
Michael Morgan, author and motivational speaker, explores the power of networking and how it shapes careers, personal growth, and opportunities. He shares insights from his book, The Power of Networking, and recounts his journey from working at major corporations like JP Morgan, Amazon, and Walmart to thriving in cybersecurity at Netskope.Discover practical strategies to build meaningful conn

Fear, Firewalking, And Finding Your Epic: A Conversation With Harriet Bratt
In this electrifying episode of EPIC, Begins with 1 Step Forward, I sit down with international speaker and firewalking instructor Harriet Bratt. We dive into fear, resilience, and the power of stepping outside your comfort zone. From firewalking to skydiving, we explore how embracing fear leads to epic transformations. Plus, we discuss the magic of “not yet” and why small steps create a big

From Rock Bottom To Gym Flow: Austin Page’s Epic Transformation
Sometimes, life’s biggest transformations come from its toughest challenges. In this episode of Epic Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes Austin Page, founder of GymFlo Coaching. Austin shares his powerful journey from a near-fatal accident to building a thriving fitness business. He dives into the mindset shifts, daily habits, and resilience that fueled his fitn

The Truth About Wills Vs. Trusts: Oscar Vasquez On Estate Planning Mistakes
Wills vs. trusts – which one truly protects your legacy? In this episode of EPIC: Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with estate planning expert Oscar Vasquez to break down their key differences and why having the right plan in place matters. Learn how living trusts can help you avoid probate, secure your assets, and ensure your loved ones are cared for without court interfe

Mind Mapping For Success: John Diggs On Overcoming Setbacks And Thriving
In this episode of EPIC: Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes John Diggs, a former pro football player turned mind mapping expert. John shares his extraordinary journey from the NFL to building a multimillion-dollar mortgage business—only to lose it all in the Great Recession. Discover how mind mapping became the key to his comeback, helping him rebuild, refocus, and thrive. Le

Balancing Law & Literature: How Michael Stockham Writes His EPIC Story
Balancing law and creativity—can it be done? Host Zander Sprague sits down with Michael Stockham, a Dallas-based lawyer turned novelist, to discuss his journey from courtroom battles to crafting legal thrillers. Michael shares how a lifelong passion for writing led him to create the Jake Fox series, the challenges of balancing a demanding career with creative pursuits, and the power of persistence

Speak, Listen, Connect: Mastering The Art Of Global Communication With Mario Wissa
In this insightful episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes communication expert Mario Wissa to dive into the art of global communication, exploring the power of verbal and nonverbal communication across cultures. From decoding global gestures to understanding how language shapes interactions, they take a closer look into the nuances that impact relationships, busin

Why 99% Commitment Fails – The EPIC Power Of Going All In With Tim Thomas
In this EPIC episode, Zander Sprague sits down with Tim Thomas, a former Australian Special Forces soldier and professional fighter turned breathwork and sleep expert. Tim shares his incredible journey from combat to coaching, revealing the power of breathwork, overcoming adversity, and why commitment fails when you're not fully in. He breaks down the mindset shift needed to go from hesitation to

Play Dumb And Sabotage: Unlocking Language Skills In Kids With Jeaneen Tang
In this episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes speech-language pathologist Jeaneen Tang to discuss her groundbreaking book, Play Dumb and Sabotage. Jeaneen shares her personal journey as a parent of a disabled child and offers valuable tips for parents on fostering language skills in young children. Learn practical strategies for early intervention, mindful communicati

Mastering PR On A Budget: Mickie Kennedy Shares Insider Tips
In this episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, to dive into the art of mastering PR. Mickie reveals how small businesses can craft impactful press releases, maximize earned media, and integrate AI tools to create way more effective PR campaigns. He also shares expert storytelling techniques, strategic planning tips, and valuab

Why Your Comfort Zone Is Sabotaging You – And How To Break Free With Dr. Axa Yox
In this inspiring episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with Dr. Axa Yox, a former scientist turned entrepreneur, to explore the power of failure, reinvention, and stepping beyond your comfort zone. Dr. Yox shares her journey from the peak of academic success to hitting rock bottom—and how she found clarity, resilience, and new opportunities by embracing change.

Unlocking Your Happiness Equation: Insights from Leighton Campbell
In this episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with Leighton Campbell, author of Your Happiness Equation. Together, they explore the science of happiness, how to overcome negativity bias, and the importance of gratitude and purpose. Leighton shares his transformative seven-question equation for measuring happiness, inspiring stories from his travels to all seven

From Hollywood Dreams To Real Estate Reality: David Sidoni's Story
Today, host Zander Sprague sits down with David Sidoni, a former actor turned real estate expert, to explore the power of reinvention, following your passions, and turning Hollywood dreams into reality. David shares his inspiring journey from a successful acting career to founding the How to Buy a Home company, where he empowers first-time homebuyers with the tools they need to succeed. This engag

Epic Choices, Epic Results: How Kim Overcame MS To Compete In Weightlifting
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with Kim Rahir, a competitive weightlifter and life coach who proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. At 55, Kim embarked on an epic journey from battling chronic illness, including a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, to becoming a competitive weightlifter. Kim shares how she overcame fear, embraced

TEDx, Tunes, And Transformation: Crafting An Epic Journey
Join host Zander Sprague and guest Jason Browne in this episode as they explore the transformative power of music, the art of embracing failure, and the importance of taking that all-important first step toward your epic journey. Jason shares his unique perspective on privilege, the emotional depth of creativity, and the unexpected ways life’s challenges can lead to profound personal growth. Along

The Healing Path: Conversations On Grief And Growth With Annie Sklaver Orenstein
Sibling loss is a unique grief journey, often hidden in the shadows, but finding healing and connection is possible. In this heartfelt episode, Zander Sprague sits down with Annie Sklaver Orenstein, researcher and author of Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourner's Guide to Grief. Together, they dive into the unique and often overlooked experience of sibling loss, sharing personal stories and disc
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