Episodes

  • A Fresh Perspective on First Generation Professionals and Why it Matters Now with Author Michelle Hoover

    A Fresh Perspective on First Generation Professionals and Why it Matters Now with Author Michelle Hoover
    Mar 25 2026
    What happens when you’re the first in your family to navigate a world no one has prepared you for? First-generation professionals often find themselves balancing unspoken rules, hidden expectations, and a deep sense of responsibility—all while trying to succeed in environments that weren’t built with them in mind. This experience goes far beyond being a first-generation college student; it’s about learning how to operate, communicate, and grow in professional spaces without a roadmap. And for millions of people, it’s a reality that’s rarely named, let alone understood. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with leadership expert Michelle Hoover to explore the powerful and often overlooked experience of first-generation professionals. Michelle shares her personal story, the inspiration behind her upcoming book From First to Fearless, and the insights she’s uncovered from interviewing dozens of individuals navigating this path. Join me and Michelle and we talk about: The hidden struggle no one talks about: why doing your job well isn’t enough to succeed in the professional world “Straddling two worlds” — what it really feels like to grow up between cultures and carry that into your career The surprising reason first-generation professionals often stay stuck (even when they’re highly capable) Why relationships—not just results—are the real currency of career growth The untapped strengths first-gen professionals have… but rarely recognize or articulate How playing “small” becomes a survival strategy—and what it takes to finally break out of it The massive opportunity employers are missing by overlooking first-generation talent already on their teams If this conversation sparked something for you, it’s a reminder that your story—no matter how ordinary it may feel—is filled with meaning, insight, and impact. Take a moment to reflect on your own journey and ask yourself: what experiences have shaped the way you show up today? And if you identify as a first-generation professional, start recognizing the strengths you’ve built along the way—and how they can propel you forward. Your story isn’t just something you’ve lived—it’s something that can lead. Subscribe to my podcast — “The Inside Story Podcast with April Adams Pertuis” — and be inspired by the stories we bring to you every week. Text the words INSIDE STORY to 833-228-9446 to get notified every time a new episode drops. If you haven't already, please don't forget to leave us a review … I’d love to hear from you! >> Rate The Inside Story Podcast << Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • Ep255 – Why Storytelling Matters More Than You Think (Honoring Women’s History Month)

    Ep255 – Why Storytelling Matters More Than You Think (Honoring Women’s History Month)
    Mar 18 2026
    Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect, inspire, and create change. Long before social media and digital platforms existed, stories were how ideas spread, communities formed, and movements gained momentum. They allow us to share not just information, but lived experiences that others can see themselves in. When we tell our stories, we give people permission to reflect on their own – and sometimes even find the courage to share them. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m reflecting on the importance of storytelling as we celebrate both Women’s History Month and World Storytelling Day. I’m sharing why women’s voices matter more than ever and offering a few simple ways you can start sharing your story—no matter where you are on your journey. Join me today as I share with you: Why stories create connection faster than facts or information ever could The surprising reason many women still hesitate to share their stories How even small, everyday story shares can create meaningful impact A simple storytelling framework anyone can use to start sharing today Why speaking up in rooms where decisions are made matters more than you think The power of sharing your struggles—not just your successes How your lived experiences can encourage someone who is walking a similar path Your story doesn’t have to be perfect, polished, or extraordinary to make a difference. The truth is, the experiences you’ve lived and the lessons you’ve learned could be exactly what someone else needs to hear right now. So I encourage you to think about one story you’ve been holding onto. Something that taught you a lesson, shaped your perspective, or helped you grow. If that story could help someone else feel less alone, maybe today is the day you share it. When you share your story, you shine a light – and that’s exactly how you become a Lightbeamer in the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 mins
  • Ep254 – The Real Strategy Behind Podcast Guesting (It’s Not Just Getting Booked) with Lyndsay Phillips

    Ep254 – The Real Strategy Behind Podcast Guesting (It’s Not Just Getting Booked) with Lyndsay Phillips
    Mar 11 2026
    Podcasting has quickly become one of the most powerful visibility platforms available to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and experts today. Whether you're hosting your own show or appearing as a guest, podcasts create a stage where your voice, message, and story can reach audiences all over the world. But simply showing up on podcasts isn’t enough — there’s a strategy behind turning those conversations into real connection, credibility, and business growth. When done right, podcasting can become a powerful extension of your brand and your storytelling. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with podcast strategist and agency owner Lyndsay Phillips, CEO of Smooth Business Podcasting. Lyndsay shares her journey into the podcasting world and pulls back the curtain on what actually works when it comes to podcast guesting, visibility, and leveraging podcasts as a marketing tool. Listen in as Lyndsay and I talk about: Why podcast guesting doesn’t automatically lead to clients (and what most people get wrong) The surprising reason being on the wrong podcasts can actually hurt your visibility How to approach podcast guesting with a clear strategy instead of just “getting booked” The behind-the-scenes reality of what podcast hosts and audiences actually respond to Why storytelling is the secret ingredient that makes podcast interviews unforgettable The key shift from promotion to connection that makes listeners want to work with you How to turn a single podcast appearance into long-term authority and opportunities If you want your voice to stand out on podcasts, storytelling is the skill that makes the difference. When you learn how to share meaningful stories instead of just information, you create the kind of connection that keeps listeners engaged and coming back for more. And if podcasting is part of your visibility strategy, this episode will help you think more intentionally about how you show up and where you share your voice. Tune in to hear the full episode and start approaching podcast guesting with a strategy that actually supports your message and your business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    58 mins
  • Ep253 – Breaking the Good Girl Code with Carly Clark Zimmer

    Ep253 – Breaking the Good Girl Code with Carly Clark Zimmer
    Feb 25 2026
    So many of the women I work with are brilliant, heart-led, and deeply called to do meaningful work — and yet they find themselves hesitating, overthinking, or holding back from being fully seen. Not because they aren’t ready, but because they’ve been conditioned to be “good.” The good girl keeps the peace, follows the rules, doesn’t take up too much space, and definitely doesn’t risk getting it wrong. In this episode, we’re talking about what it really takes to break that conditioning and step into your confident era — not through force or perfection, but through self-trust. I’m joined by the incredible Carly Clark Zimmer for a conversation that felt both deeply validating and powerfully activating. Carly shares her journey from being painfully shy and disconnected from her own voice to becoming a coach who helps women decondition from people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the patterns that keep them small. Join me and Carly as we talk about: The subtle ways good girl conditioning keeps you from being seen and fully expressed Why confidence isn’t the first step — self-trust is How to stop tying your worth to your work or other people’s responses The importance of surrounding yourself with spaces that normalize your growth A practical tool you can use to move through overthinking and into aligned action How to start collecting your own evidence so you can truly believe in yourself If you’ve been feeling the nudge to show up more boldly, to use your voice in a bigger way, or to make a move you know is aligned — but you’ve also been feeling that internal pull to stay safe and small — this episode is for you. Your confident era doesn’t begin when you finally feel ready. It begins the moment you decide to trust yourself. Listen in, and if this conversation speaks to you, share it with a woman in your world who’s ready to break the good girl code and step into the visibility and leadership she’s meant for. And be sure to connect with Carly through the links below — her work in the world is truly transformational. Interview links: Connect with Carly Instagram Check out Carly’s 5-part mini-audio series, Trust Issues Get Carly’s 5-Minute Laser Coach Custom GPT here for FREE with the code FREECLARITY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 mins
  • Ep252 – Mother Daughter Duo of HOPE with Evelina and Hope Solis

    Ep252 – Mother Daughter Duo of HOPE with Evelina and Hope Solis
    Feb 18 2026
    There is nothing that lights me up more than watching someone step into their voice—especially when it’s the next generation. Because when a young person learns that their story matters, that they are seen, and that they are not alone, everything changes. This conversation is about what it looks like to intentionally create those spaces, to raise leaders who are grounded in faith and identity, and to model visibility in real time. It’s about the ripple effect that happens when one “yes” turns into many. Today’s episode is special to me because I’m sitting down with two people I care about—Evelina Solis and her daughter Hope, the beautiful voices behind the Hope & Ev Show. I’ve had a front-row seat to their journey, and we’re talking about the heart behind their podcast, the impact of Shine Your Light Camp, and the calling they are boldly walking out together. Tune in as Hope and Ev talk to us about: The goal isn’t to be seen — it’s to make space for someone else to be seen. You don’t grow confidence first and then use your voice — you use your voice and that’s how confidence grows. Introverted does not mean invisible. When one woman says yes to her calling, an entire generation benefits. Safe spaces don’t happen by accident — they are created on purpose. Our kids are not the future… they are leaders right now. Your story in motion gives someone else permission to begin. This conversation is the ripple effect in real time. Watching Evelina step into her calling, and now watching Hope find her voice because of it, is exactly why this work matters so much to me. This is what happens when we stop playing small and start living in obedience to what God is asking us to do. So here’s what I want you to do: 🎧 Go listen to the full episode. 💛 Share it with a teenager in your life—or a mama who is raising one. ✨ Go introduce them to the Hope & Ev Show. Because the more voices we empower, the more light we put into the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Ep251 – Not Letting Chronic Illness Define You with Wendy Bjork

    Ep251 – Not Letting Chronic Illness Define You with Wendy Bjork
    Feb 11 2026
    Living with a chronic illness can impact every area of life—physically, emotionally, and mentally—but it doesn’t have to define who you are or limit what’s possible. For many, the journey involves navigating pain, medical systems, unanswered questions, and the challenge of advocating for yourself when symptoms aren’t always visible. This conversation explores what it really means to reclaim agency, seek holistic support, and redefine what “living well” can look like alongside a diagnosis. It’s about empowerment, curiosity, and taking ownership of your healing journey one step at a time. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, April sits down with Wendy Bjork, known as The Empress of MS, to talk about living with Multiple Sclerosis and refusing to let chronic illness dictate her identity or her life. Wendy shares her personal journey, the lessons she’s learned navigating the medical system, and how holistic approaches and self-advocacy have transformed the way she manages her health. Join me and Wendy as we talk about: Chronic illness doesn’t have to become your identity—you can live with it without letting it define you Being dismissed by doctors is common, which makes self-advocacy a non-negotiable skill Healing isn’t just about medication—your environment, stress levels, and daily habits matter more than most people realize The products you use in your home and on your body can quietly fuel inflammation and symptoms Small, consistent changes often create bigger results than dramatic “overnight fixes” You don’t have to choose between traditional medicine and holistic care—you get to decide what works for you Empowerment begins the moment you stop ignoring your body and start listening to it Wendy’s story is a powerful reminder that a diagnosis doesn’t get to write the ending of your story—you do. If this episode resonated with you or someone you love, share it with them and help spread this message of empowerment and possibility. Be sure to check out Wendy’s free resources and connect with her work, linked in the show notes. And as always, go share your story—you never know who needs to hear it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Ep250 – What Got You Here Won't Get You There -- What I'm Changing for 2026.

    Ep250 – What Got You Here Won't Get You There -- What I'm Changing for 2026.
    Feb 4 2026
    There comes a moment in every business and creative journey when you realize that the strategies, habits, and choices that helped you grow may no longer be the ones that will carry you forward. Growth requires reassessment, honesty, and sometimes a willingness to let go of what once worked. This episode explores that pivotal idea — the space between where you’ve been successful and where you’re being called next. It’s about evolution, alignment, and giving yourself permission to shift. In this milestone 250th episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I’m reflecting on two major markers: ten years in business with Lightbeamers and five years of podcasting. After a short break, I’m back behind the mic to share what these milestones have taught me — and how they’re shaping the next chapter of my work, my leadership, and my life. Join me today as I share with you: Why starting before you’re ready is often the reason clarity eventually finds you The hidden cost of holding onto offers, strategies, or identities that have already run their course How seasons of life influence the way you’re meant to build and lead The difference between scaling digitally and creating deeply human, in-person experiences What long-term sustainability actually looks like after a decade in business How speaking, storytelling, and visibility can evolve as your goals evolve The powerful questions you should be asking when you feel an internal “nudge” to change As I recorded this episode, I realized how much clarity comes from looking back with honesty and looking forward with intention. If you’re feeling that quiet pull to do things differently — to simplify, deepen, or realign — this conversation is for you. I invite you to listen with an open heart, reflect on what got you here, and consider what might be calling you next. And if something in this episode resonates, come find me — send me a message on Instagram, join our community, or step into one of our in-person experiences this year. Let’s stop doing this journey alone and start building the next chapter together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • Ep249 – How to Be Better at Sales with Joe Graham

    Ep249 – How to Be Better at Sales with Joe Graham
    Dec 17 2025
    Sales doesn’t have to feel pushy, awkward, or manipulative—but for many entrepreneurs, it still does. At its core, sales is really about problem-solving, building relationships, and helping people make confident decisions. When done with integrity and intention, sales becomes less about pressure and more about service. This conversation explores how systems, mindset, and human connection can transform the way we sell. In this episode of The Inside Story Podcast, I sit down with sales expert and my longtime friend Joe Graham for a real, honest conversation about sales and life. Joe shares his journey from growing up on food stamps to becoming a top-performing enterprise sales leader, along with the lessons he’s learned along the way about integrity, resilience, and building sustainable success. Get ready to be inspired by Joe as we talk about: Why sales is really about problem-solving-not persuasion or pressure How removing emotion from sales starts with building a bigger pipeline The importance of systems, follow-up, and always setting a clear next step Why relationship-building beats funnels, tactics, and one-call closes How women entrepreneurs can lean into their natural strengths in sales Simple ways to gamify sales and stay motivated as an entrepreneur Why integrity and long-term trust will always outperform short-term wins If sales has ever felt heavy, intimidating, or misaligned for you, this episode is a must-listen. Joe brings practical wisdom, real-life experience, and a refreshing reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice who you are to be successful in business. Listen in, take notes, and then ask yourself where you can simplify, systemize, and show up more fully in your own sales process. And when you’re done, be sure to connect with Joe and let him know what resonated most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins