Episodios

  • #171: Intention Over Outcomes: Why God Handles the Results (and We Don't Have To)
    Feb 2 2026

    Do the Work, Release the Results: A Leadership Lesson in Faith and Integrity

    There's a revelation many leaders, creators, and high performers eventually come to—but often only after burnout, anxiety, or frustration sets in:

    We are responsible for intention and integrity.
    God is responsible for outcomes.

    In this solo episode, I share a recent personal reflection that reshaped how I approach leadership, creativity, and faith—rooted in wisdom from legendary producer Rick Rubin and anchored in a deeply spiritual truth.

    Rick Rubin is known for an unconventional creative philosophy: he is not concerned with the audience at all. Instead, his focus is singular—making the truest, most honest work he can make. He describes the process as a devotional practice. Once the work is complete, the outcome is no longer his responsibility.

    That insight stopped me in my tracks.

    Because it reveals something many of us struggle to accept:
    faithfulness and results are not the same thing.

    In a world obsessed with metrics, validation, reach, and reaction, this episode invites you to release what was never yours to carry. You'll hear why obsessing over outcomes drains presence, compromises integrity, and quietly disconnects us from our calling—while intention and integrity restore peace, clarity, and trust in God's timing.

    This conversation is especially for:

    • Leaders navigating pressure, visibility, or uncertainty

    • Creators and entrepreneurs exhausted by outcome-driven culture

    • High performers wrestling with control, anxiety, or perfectionism

    • Anyone longing to lead, create, and serve from a place of faith rather than fear

    Inside the episode, we explore:

    • Why intention matters more than reception

    • How integrity keeps your leadership aligned when outcomes feel uncertain

    • What it means to treat your work as an offering, not a transaction

    • How releasing control becomes a spiritual discipline

    • Why God never asked you to manage the results—only your obedience

    This isn't about doing less.

    It's about doing what actually belongs to you and trusting God with the rest.

    If you're ready to stop striving, start creating with devotion, and lead with lighter hands and deeper faith, this episode is for you.

    This is what faith-centered leadership looks like—gratitude for the calling, responsibility for our integrity, and trust in God for the outcome. Follow the podcast for more conversations that help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

    What does GRASP stand for?


    Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose.
    These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling.

    🎙️ Have you subscribed yet?
    Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you.

    🎧 Available on:
    Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio

    Share the inspiration
    Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.

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    33 m
  • #170: AI Is Moving Faster Than Leadership—How to Lead Without Losing What Makes Us Human
    Jan 26 2026
    Data, AI, and the Identity Crisis Facing Modern Leadership In this powerful, forward-thinking episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast, host Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Michael Clark — esteemed strategist, author, and global advisor on artificial intelligence (AI), data, and emerging technologies. If you're a leader, innovator, creator, or change-maker today, you already know this: technology isn't just transforming what we do — it's reshaping who we are. And the real question isn't whether AI will impact our future… it's how we will respond, lead, and live without losing what makes us human. Why This Episode Matters Now As AI accelerates faster than organizations and institutions can absorb, the confidence gap becomes a strategic vulnerability. Leaders feel the pressure to adopt AI, harness data, and modernize work — but many struggle to reconcile rapid innovation with human-centered purpose, identity, and community. In this episode, Michael Clark challenges the traditional narrative around technology. Rather than viewing AI as a disruptor to be feared or a tool to be controlled, Michael reframes it as a catalyst moment — a pivotal opportunity for humanity to rethink our systems and realign our values. Through deep insight, strategic clarity, and narrative wisdom, he shows listeners how to lead with confidence in the age of AI, unlocking not just productivity but purpose. Who Michael Clark Is — Credibility You Can Trust Michael Clark is a globally recognized strategist and advisor with an unparalleled ability to help leaders, governments, and investors understand what to do with AI, data, and emerging technology — not just what to think about. He bridges the worlds of innovation and human potential with humanity, ethics, and long-term thinking. His work is rooted in: Leading large-scale transformation and innovation across sectors Advising decision-makers on the responsible deployment of AI Developing new models for education and work that are being adopted globally Reframing data as a real-world asset Clarifying strategy for organizations facing disruption Integrating human identity, community, and purpose with technology Michael's perspective isn't theoretical — it's shaped by real-world experience, both at the intersection of innovation and implementation. About His Book — Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential In his breakthrough narrative work, Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential, Michael captivates early readers and thought leaders alike. Described by reviewers as a modern-day Alchemist for the digital age, Our Moment goes beyond instruction and analysis — it uses story to explore how humanity can learn, work, build, and live alongside AI, data, and emerging technologies without losing what makes us human. Rather than prescribing technical steps or theory, the book: Illuminates how identity and purpose shape our relationship with technology Articulates a vision of human-centered innovation Reimagines the future of learning, work, and society Inspires readers to lead with confidence in an AI-infused world This narrative-driven approach sets Our Moment apart as both a philosophical guide and strategic compass for leaders of all kinds. What You'll Learn in This Episode Listeners to this episode will gain: ✔ New frameworks for leading with confidence in the AI era ✔ Actionable insights on integrating data and technology into strategy without sacrificing human dignity ✔ Visionary perspective on how future systems — from education to governance — must evolve ✔ Clarity around AI as a catalyst for purpose, not just change ✔ Strategies for resilient, ethical leadership in uncertainty Whether you are a CEO, entrepreneur, educator, policymaker, or aspiring leader, this conversation will equip you with the tools, mindsets, and confidence to thrive — not just survive — as technology reshapes our world. Who This Episode Is For This episode is essential listening for: Executives and founders looking to integrate AI strategically Leaders in technology, innovation, and transformation Professionals navigating career reinvention in the digital age Human-centered thinkers focused on purpose and impact Anyone curious about the future of work, learning, and community Connect With Michael Clark 📘 Book: Our Moment: A Story of Destiny and Human Potential 🌐 Official website: https://ourmoment.ai/ 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mclarkglobal 📧 Contact: info@ourmoment.ai
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    33 m
  • #169: From CITGO to Caracas: Jose Pereira on Maduro's Capture and Venezuela's New Era
    Jan 23 2026

    What happens when a nation stands at the edge of history?

    In this powerful return to GRASP Confidence, former CITGO Petroleum CEO Jose Pereira joins the conversation to unpack the capture of Nicolás Maduro and what this pivotal moment could mean for Venezuela, the United States, and the future of global leadership.

    Drawing from his experience leading one of the world's most critical energy organizations and navigating geopolitical pressure at the highest levels, Jose offers rare insight into the political, economic, and human implications of this unfolding chapter. He speaks candidly about power, corruption, global influence, and the long road toward rebuilding trust, stability, and sovereignty.

    But above all, this conversation is rooted in hope.

    Hope for a Venezuela restored.
    Hope for ethical, values-driven leadership.
    Hope that even after decades of turmoil, a nation can heal, rebuild, and rise again.

    For listeners who want deeper context on Jose's personal journey—including his five years of captivity in Venezuela and the events that shaped his leadership—be sure to listen to Episode 30 of GRASP Confidence, where Jose shares his story in full.

    This is not just a conversation about politics or energy. It's a conversation about resilience, responsibility, faith in the future, and the belief that transformation is still possible, even when the road forward feels uncertain.

    Connect with Jose Pereira:

    🌐 Website: https://joseconnect.com/
    🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-angel-pereira/
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JosePereira-nz4ps

    What does GRASP stand for?


    Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose.
    These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling.

    🎙️ Have you subscribed yet?
    Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you.

    🎧 Available on:
    Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio

    Share the inspiration
    Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.

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    38 m
  • #168: When Success Outgrows Your Capacity to Hold It | Brent Perkins
    Jan 19 2026

    What happens when your success outgrows your capacity to hold it?

    In this episode of GRASP Confidence, Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Brent Perkins, former seven and eight-figure entrepreneur, two-time Inc. 5000 leader, author of Papercuts: The Art of Self-Delusion, and Fractional CEO for high-performing fathers.

    Brent's story is one many elite leaders quietly relate to: rapid growth, global influence, and external validation—followed by a personal collapse. His marriage ended. His health declined. And the life he built no longer aligned with who he wanted to be.

    Instead of rebuilding with hustle, Brent rebuilt with capacity.

    In this conversation, we unpack:

    • Why success without expanded capacity eventually breaks you

    • The hidden self-delusions high achievers fall into without realizing it

    • How leaders can expand their internal capacity to sustain growth, impact, and presence

    • Why integration—not balance—is the future of leadership

    • How rebuilding your inner life changes the way you lead your business and your family

    This episode is especially meaningful as Tara shares how these same principles are woven into her upcoming book, From Calling to Confidence, which dedicates an entire chapter to increasing capacity so calling doesn't turn into burnout.

    If you're a high-demand entrepreneur, CEO, author, or founder building something meaningful—and you want to grow without losing yourself—this episode is required listening.

    👉 Learn more about Brent Perkins' process and how he helps leaders expand their capacity for sustainable success:
    https://www.3xbold.com/my-process

    Grab a copy of Brent's book, Papercuts on Amazon!

    What does GRASP stand for?


    Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose.
    These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling.

    🎙️ Have you subscribed yet?
    Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you.

    🎧 Available on:
    Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio

    Share the inspiration
    Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.

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    52 m
  • #167: Bishop Kevin Foreman on Faith, Calling, and Becoming Who You're Meant to Be
    Jan 15 2026
    Have you ever felt like you were made for more but your circumstances don't match your future? In this episode of GRASP Confidence, Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Bishop Kevin Foreman—widely known as "The People's Bishop"—for a grounded, practical conversation on leadership, faith, discipline, and personal evolution. Bishop Foreman shares his journey from humble beginnings in Denver and the inner city of Memphis to becoming an influential pastor, church planter, success coach, author, entrepreneur, and founder of Harvest Bible College. His story is a testament to breaking generational limits, transcending statistics, and leading with wholeness rather than burnout. This conversation explores what it truly means to evolve—spiritually, physically, and professionally—without waiting for perfect conditions. Drawing from his own experience, including restoring his health and losing over 95 pounds through the Fit Harvest movement, Bishop Foreman explains why sustainable transformation happens through daily discipline, faith-led decisions, and consistency over time. In this episode, you'll learn: Why leaders must stay full before they can pour into others How resistance often confirms alignment with your calling The importance of daily habits over emotional motivation What it means to evolve without abandoning who you are How faith, stewardship, and responsibility intersect in leadership Why saying "yes" one step at a time leads to lasting confidence and growth This episode is especially relevant for leaders, entrepreneurs, faith-driven professionals, and anyone navigating growth, pressure, or transition while striving to lead with clarity and purpose. Books by Bishop Kevin Foreman Sins of the Fathers: Breaking Generational Curses https://a.co/d/3kj73gq Making Money Moves: The Art of Getting Your Finances in Order https://a.co/d/iDTzUyE Evolutionaries: Unlocking the New You https://a.co/d/j8mnDQC Getting Your Finances in Order: Your Guide to Good Success https://a.co/d/3jTiLAB History Makers https://a.co/d/5PhSwyG Website & Social Media Website: http://www.bishopforeman.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bishopforeman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bishopforeman/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bishopforeman X (Twitter): https://x.com/bishopforeman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bishopforeman1/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bishopforeman What does GRASP stand for? Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose. These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling. 🎙️ Have you subscribed yet? Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you. 🎧 Available on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio Share the inspiration Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.
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    39 m
  • #166: From Vision to 500 Million Books: Mark Victor Hansen on Confidence & Calling
    Jan 12 2026
    The Belief That Built Chicken Soup for the Soul: Mark Victor Hansen on Confidence, Purpose, and Legacy


    What does it take to create a message that reaches hundreds of millions of people—and still stays rooted in purpose?

    In this powerful episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast, Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Mark Victor Hansen, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, one of the most influential and best-selling book franchises of all time. With over 500 million copies sold worldwide, Mark's work has shaped generations of readers, leaders, and visionaries—but the real story behind that success is not just publishing. It's belief.

    Mark pulls back the curtain on the inner foundation that made global impact possible. From facing repeated rejection to holding unwavering confidence in a vision long before the world validated it, Mark shares what most people never see: the internal discipline required to sustain external success.

    Together, Tara and Mark explore why confidence isn't personality-based; it's cultivated. They discuss the power of storytelling as a leadership tool, the responsibility that comes with influence, and why clarity of purpose matters more than ever in a noisy, competitive world. For authors and thought leaders, this conversation is a masterclass in aligning message, mission, and impact without losing authenticity.

    If you've ever felt called to write a book, lead a movement, or scale your influence but questioned whether your voice was enough—this episode will shift something in you.

    Mark explains how belief becomes a multiplier, how responsibility sharpens leadership, and why intentional action is what separates ideas that fade from messages that endure. You'll hear how confidence, when grounded in service and purpose, creates ripple effects far beyond personal success. This is not about chasing fame; it's about building a legacy that lasts.

    Whether you're an entrepreneur scaling a mission-driven business, an author preparing to share your story, or a leader navigating visibility and growth, this conversation will remind you that the most powerful success begins from the inside out.

    Listen now to this inspiring episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast and rediscover the belief, clarity, and responsibility required to step fully into your calling.

    If this conversation resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who's ready to turn their message into meaningful impact.

    Learn more about Mark & support his work: https://markvictorhansen.com

    What does GRASP stand for?


    Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose.
    These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling.

    🎙️ Have you subscribed yet?
    Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you.

    🎧 Available on:
    Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio

    Share the inspiration
    Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.

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    1 h y 3 m
  • #165: Why Authenticity Is the Ultimate Advantage in the Age of AI | Harvey Castro, MD, MBA (5x TEDx Speaker)
    Jan 8 2026
    Thought Leadership Isn't Claimed. It's Proven. In a world flooded with AI-generated content, polished prompts, and recycled ideas, authenticity has become the most valuable currency a speaker can offer. In this powerful episode of GRASP Confidence, Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Harvey Castro, MD, MBA — 5x TEDx Speaker, physician, entrepreneur, and AI thought leader to explore what it actually takes to stand out in the age of artificial intelligence. This isn't a surface-level conversation about AI tools or trends. It's a masterclass on credibility, thought leadership, and using AI as a mirror not a mask. Harvey shares how he landed five TEDx talks in just twelve months, why most speakers get rejected before they ever hit "submit," and how authenticity is what ultimately earns trust, influence, and stage invitations. Together, Tara and Harvey unpack: Why credentials, lived experience, and clarity of perspective matter more than ever How AI can reveal your blind spots in speaking, presence, and delivery The difference between having an idea and being the authority Why generosity of knowledge builds more influence than gatekeeping ever will How to prepare for TEDx (and high-stakes stages) without losing your voice Harvey also introduces SpeakerPlus AI, a groundbreaking tool that analyzes voice, tonality, body language, and micro-expressions giving speakers feedback most humans simply can't catch in real time. At its core, this episode is a reminder that AI doesn't replace speakers, it exposes them. And in an age where everything can be replicated… authenticity is the one thing that can't be duplicated. 💬 Powerful Quotes from the Episode "TEDx isn't about just having a good idea. It's about proving you are the credible voice to carry it." "AI shouldn't write your talk for you but it can absolutely help you see what you're missing." "We don't know what we don't know. And that's where AI can become a powerful mirror for speakers." "Generosity of knowledge is one of the highest forms of authority." 🎯 Who This Episode Is For Speakers pursuing TEDx or global stages Physicians, CEOs, and founders building thought leadership Leaders navigating AI without losing their humanity Anyone who wants to stand out by being more real, not louder If this episode resonated with you: Follow GRASP Confidence on your favorite podcast platform Share this episode with a speaker or leader who needs to hear it Leave a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps this message reach more people who are ready to lead with confidence, credibility, and authenticity 🎙️ Because the world doesn't need more noise, it needs more truth. Connect with Dr. Harvey on LinkedIn Hire Harvey to speak at your next event! What does GRASP stand for? Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose. These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling. 🎙️ Have you subscribed yet? Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you. 🎧 Available on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio Share the inspiration Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.
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    28 m
  • #164: Come Off Mute: How Faith-Anchored Confidence Unlocks Women's Leadership With Dr. Rita Renee
    Jan 5 2026
    What happens when women stop shrinking and finally use the voice God gave them? Too many women are leading quietly; minimizing their voice, second-guessing their authority, and staying hidden in spaces they were called to influence. In this powerful episode of GRASP Confidence, Tara LaFon Gooch sits down with Dr. Rita Renee, international speaker, author, leadership coach, and TEDx Raleigh 2025 speaker, for a faith-filled conversation about visibility, obedience, and the courage it takes to come off mute. With over 34 years in nursing and 20 years in corporate healthcare leadership, Dr. Rita Renee brings executive wisdom and biblical truth together to help women lead with confidence, communicate with authority, and stop waiting for permission to step into their calling. In this episode, you'll learn: Why confidence is rooted in obedience—not titles or validation How faith and leadership intersect in seasons of visibility The real cost of shrinking and the freedom that comes from alignment What it means to lead boldly without apology How your voice becomes a catalyst for influence, impact, and legacy This episode is a reminder that leadership is not about being louder, it's about being faithful. 🎧 Listen now and remember: your voice isn't optional. It's part of your assignment. Top Quotes from the Episode "God never called you to be quiet about what He assigned you to do." "Confidence doesn't come from position, it comes from obedience." "Your voice isn't optional. It's a responsibility." Meaning Behind "It Is Finished" The Greek word Jesus spoke on the cross for "It is finished" is Tetelestai (τετέλεσται), a perfect tense verb meaning the action is completed with lasting results, signifying triumph, victory, and the completion of redemption, often interpreted as "paid in full" in a commercial sense or fulfilling scripture. Meaning & Significance Completion: It declares that the work of salvation, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the payment for sin are all done."Paid in Full": While debated, it strongly suggests the idea of a debt being fully settled, a powerful concept in ancient commerce.Triumph: It's a declaration of victory over sin, death, and darkness, not a sigh of defeat.Perfect Tense: In Greek, the perfect tense (like in tetelestai) emphasizes a completed action with ongoing, future effects, meaning it's finished forever. Connect with Dr. Rita Renee Continue the conversation and learn more about faith-anchored leadership and visibility: 👉 Add your headshot link here 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drritarenee 🌐 Websites: https://ultimatepowerhousecoach.com https://drritarenee.com Follow Dr. Rita Renee for insight on confidence, calling, communication, and leading boldly in every room God places you in. What does GRASP stand for? Gratitude. Responsibility. Action. Sight. Purpose. These five pillars form the foundation of authentic, confident leadership and every episode of the GRASP Confidence Podcast is designed to help you embody them more fully in your life, business, and calling. 🎙️ Have you subscribed yet? Join thousands of high-performing leaders who tune in weekly for powerful conversations with world-class guests sharing real stories, mindset shifts, and actionable insights. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you loved today's episode, don't forget to leave a review—it helps us reach more leaders like you. 🎧 Available on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon/Audible | iHeartRadio Share the inspiration Send this episode to a friend or post it on your favorite social platform, we rise by lifting others.
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    36 m