This week on the podcast, Bernie sits down with Michele A. Mathews, a powerhouse in HR, safety, and risk management, and the president of HR Tampa. Michele’s story is a testament to how unexpected life events can reshape not only our personal journeys but also how we strive to make a difference for others.

Here are three key highlights from our conversation:

1️⃣ Turning Trauma into Purpose
At just 10 years old, Michele suffered a freak accident resulting in temporary paralysis. Forced to step back from her original ambitions, she watched her father’s construction business up close, sparking her lifelong dedication to worker wellness, safety, and listening to those who often go unheard.

2️⃣ The Superpower of Active Listening
Michele credits her ability to tune in deeply, not just to words, but the intent behind them, as her “superpower” that shapes her leadership. She’s known for truly hearing people’s stories and concerns, making those around her feel valued and seen, which are traits that set her apart in both HR and life.

3️⃣ Impact Over Titles
Though she reached her goal as a chief HR and safety officer for a business, Michele found greater fulfillment running her own consultancy. By working with multiple organizations and directly impacting real people’s lives (sometimes life-savingly so), she pursues what she calls the “second paycheck,” the internal satisfaction of meaningful work.

Main Takeaway:
Michele’s journey is a powerful reminder that fulfillment isn’t just about titles or ticking off career boxes, it’s about purpose-driven impact, kindness, and using your unique story to lift others up.

Want to connect with Michele? All her links are in the show notes below!

Connect with Michele A. Mathews

Website
LinkedIn
Instagram

Connect with Bernie Borges

LinkedIn
Instagram
Website

Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.com
Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter

Get in touch with Bernie to:
Explore hiring Bernie as a keynote speaker at your next event.
Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.

Watch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube

Music attribution:
Old Bossa Twin Musicom
Suno

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On this episode Bernie welcomes Joanie Musser—an accomplished instructional designer, educator, and the host of the “Mindset to Learn” podcast—for a vulnerable conversation.

🗝️ 3 key discussion points discussed:

1️⃣ Childhood Dreams & Unforeseen Change
Joanie takes us back to her middle school years and athletic dreams, particularly her passion for speed skating and her hopes to compete in the Olympics. Her story takes a turn when her mother suffers a cerebral hemorrhage, dramatically changing Joanie’s family dynamics. Joanie was faced with adult responsibilities at a young age, navigating emotional challenges, and ultimately having to give up her skating aspirations.

2️⃣ The Power of Connection & Letting Go
A poignant moment comes when Joanie discovers her former skating partner, Jennifer Rodriguez, featured as an Olympic athlete in a school library book. While Joanie cheered Jennifer on from afar, reading about her journey brought up complex emotions—gratitude, longing, and what-ifs.

3️⃣ Perspective, Growth, and Fulfillment
Joanie reflects on the lessons learned from carrying heavy family responsibilities as the eldest child. She speaks honestly about maturing quickly, making tough but necessary choices, and how these experiences gave her a deeper perspective on life.

Main Takeaway:
Life’s detours—sometimes outside our control—can lead us to unexpected forms of fulfillment and personal growth. Joanie’s story is a testament to resilience, the importance of perspective, and the transformative power of vulnerability and connection.

Connect with Joanie Musser
Website
Mindset to Learn Podcast
Email: joanie@mindsettolearn.com
LinkedIn

Connect with Bernie Borges

LinkedIn
Instagram
Website

Email: bernie@midlifefulfilled.com
Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter

Get in touch with Bernie to:
Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.
Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.

Watch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube

Music attribution:
Old Bossa Twin Musicom
Suno

Text us your feedback on the podcast.

Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode!

On this episode, Bernie Borges sits down with Joe Weaver, the operations manager and program director at Salem Media Group’s Tampa studio. Joe shares the fascinating story of how a 30-second radio commercial sparked a major career pivot from installing tile to running multiple radio stations and FM translators.

🗝️ 3 key points discussed:

1️⃣ Say Yes & Stay Curious: Joe attributes much of his growth to always saying yes when opportunities knock, even before the question is finished. It’s a powerful reminder that openness to new roles (even the menial ones!) can lay unexpected foundations for your career.

2️⃣ Understand the Impact of Your Work: Joe’s life changed because of a single radio commercial. He encourages us to never underestimate the power of what we create. Our work can change lives in unseen ways, whether it’s a 30-second ad or a meaningful project.

3️⃣ Fulfillment Beats Titles: Joe finds deep fulfillment not just from “big” wins like meeting famous people, but from positive relationships and knowing he’s made a difference. He stresses being grateful for our circumstances, not comparing ourselves to others, and striving to be a blessing to those around us.

Main takeaway: No matter where your career takes you, pursue what you’re good at, choose gratitude, and remember that real success is about the impact you leave on people’s lives and the fulfillment you find in doing meaningful work.

Connect with Joe Weaver
Salem Media Group website
Joe Weaver LinkedIn
Twitter/X

Connect with Bernie Borges

LinkedIn
Instagram
Website

Email: bernie@midlifefulfilled.com
Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter

Get in touch with Bernie to:
Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.
Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.

Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube

Music attribution:
Old Bossa Twin Musicom
Suno

Text us your feedback on the podcast.

Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode!