Pockets of Knowledge
Pockets of Knowledge

Pockets of Knowledge

Pockets of Knowledge

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Episodes

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Sharing illuminating stories and knowledge in the areas of business, health, finance, philanthropy, art, entrepreneurship (and so much more!) designed to inform, educate, inspire, and empower you on your journey to reaching your goals.

Recent Episodes

#124. Find Your Confident Voice: Public Speaking & Communication Tips with Susan Murphy
FEB 26, 2025
#124. Find Your Confident Voice: Public Speaking & Communication Tips with Susan Murphy

n this engaging episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Susan Murphy, founder of VOSOT Better Broadcast Voices, a broadcast veteran with over 40 years of experience in radio, television, and public speaking. Susan has worn many hats—news director, TV reporter, weather anchor, talk show host, and now, an expert voice coach helping people across industries find their most authentic, confident voice.

Susan shares how voice and communication shape personal and professional success, breaking down the psychology behind vocal tone, pitch, and confidence. She explains why many women struggle to find their natural voice due to childhood experiences, societal expectations, and ingrained speech patterns. Through her coaching, she helps professionals, from CEOs to orthodontists, ministers to game show hosts, develop a bold, authoritative voice that commands attention.

Listeners will learn practical techniques like breath control, diaphragmatic breathing, and posture adjustments to improve vocal strength and clarity. Susan also reveals why pauses in speech matter, how storytelling builds trust, and the power of intentional communication in any setting—whether delivering a presentation, leading a team, or even having a conversation with family.

If you’ve ever felt unheard, struggled with public speaking, or simply want to improve your confidence through voice, this episode is packed with insightful strategies to help you speak with authority, presence, and authenticity.

Susan will be sharing a curated list of recommended podcasts, which will be included in the show notes.

Bio:

Susan Murphy likes to say, "You can't shoot at a moving target."

She's been in the broadcast industry for over 40 years.  She's been a radio news director...a TV news reporter and "weather girl" back when they called them that!...a talk show host and producer for radio...a Public Television producer and on-air personality...a college dean and instructor...a voice over artist...and now a broadcast voice coach. So many people have so many great things to say.  But do you say them in a way that makes me want to listen? Susan started voice coaching for broadcasters to "elevate" their voices by drilling down to their authentic pitch and tone.  You just have to look to your gut - your diaphragm is where you LIVE. This not only works for broadcasters but for anyone who speaks to anyone.  And that's all of us.

Connect with Susan:

Email: susanmurphyvosot@gmail.com

Website: https://susanmurphyvosot.com/

Instagram: VOSOT_Better_Broadcast_Voices

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-murphy-a649406/

Recommendations on experts for public speaking tips:

Vinh Giang – Public Speaking & Communication Expert

George Torok – Presentation & Communication Coach

Claire Frye – Voice Teacher & Communication Specialist






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49 MIN
#123. From Overwhelmed to Empowered: How to Think Like a CEO with Donna Dube
FEB 19, 2025
#123. From Overwhelmed to Empowered: How to Think Like a CEO with Donna Dube

In this informative episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Donna Dube, founder of CEO Amplify, a certified director of operations, growth strategist, and podcast host dedicated to helping entrepreneurs shift from overwhelmed business owners to empowered CEOs. Donna shares her unique journey from ICU nurse to business strategist, highlighting the lessons she’s learned in scaling businesses, improving operations, and creating sustainable growth without burnout.

Donna breaks down why so many entrepreneurs get stuck working in their businesses instead of on them, leading to constant hustle with little progress. She shares the key differences between maintenance tasks and growth-focused activities, explaining how shifting priorities can lead to better efficiency, profitability, and work-life balance.

Listeners will learn practical strategies like the CEO Power Hour, a structured way to review business performance, set clear goals, and take intentional steps toward success. Donna also introduces the Eisenhower Matrix, a tool for prioritizing tasks and eliminating distractions, helping business owners focus on high-impact activities.

Whether you’re a solopreneur looking to scale, a CEO aiming for smarter operations, or a business owner searching for clarity, this episode is full of actionable insights to help you think and act like a true CEO.

Donna reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Tune in to discover how to streamline your business, reduce stress, and make decisions that truly move the needle.

Bio:

Donna Dube is a certified Director of Operations, business growth strategist and host of the CEO Amplify podcast.  She works with established online service-based business owners who are ready to make a bigger impact and maximize their profit.

Donna is passionate about helping business owners work smarter, not harder, escape the hustle and grind culture, and go from stressed-out to confident CEOs. With several years of experience in project planning and strategic growth planning with 6- and 7-figure businesses, she has seen the momentum that can happen in a business when the CEO leverages their time, talent, and tactics.

Connect with Donna:

Website: https://ceoamplify.ca/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donna.dube.96/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoamplify

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-dube/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ceoamplify

Resources:

https://ceoamplify.ca/powerhour

Books mentioned:

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman (Author) -https://amzn.to/3EATPzm

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (Author) - https://amzn.to/4hKaYFK

Podcasts mentioned:

CEO Amplify with Donna Dube - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-amplify-small-business-operations-systems-processes/id1700001741

EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Podcast






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35 MIN
#122. How to Start a Business with Confidence and Purpose: Expert Advice with Suzy Wraines
FEB 12, 2025
#122. How to Start a Business with Confidence and Purpose: Expert Advice with Suzy Wraines

In this empowering episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Suzy Wraines, founder of Starting a Business Simplified and a certified trauma energetics coach. Suzy shares her transformational journey from corporate roles and military service to entrepreneurship, revealing the challenges she faced while launching her own business—and the lessons she now teaches to help others start with confidence.

Suzy discusses the missing pieces in traditional business advice, particularly for solopreneurs who don’t have a corporate team behind them. She explains how past experiences, subconscious beliefs, and even trauma can create roadblocks in entrepreneurship, leading to self-sabotage and fear around money and success. Through her coaching and mentorship, she helps new business owners uncover and heal the limiting beliefs that prevent them from thriving.

This episode is packed with practical strategies for anyone considering starting a business or struggling to gain momentum. Suzy emphasizes the power of intention and energy, sharing her best tips on clarifying your business idea, overcoming limiting beliefs, and taking aligned action. She also introduces the Higher Purpose Entrepreneur Community, where entrepreneurs can connect with like-minded individuals and build confidence in a supportive environment.

If you’ve hesitated to leap into entrepreneurship or feel stuck in your business growth, this episode will inspire you to move forward with clarity and confidence. With warmth and insight, Suzy reminds us that starting a business is more than just strategy—it’s about personal growth and transformation. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!

Bio:

Introducing Suzy Wraines, a trailblazer in the world of entrepreneurship and a passionate advocate for medical professionals looking to transition into business ownership. With years of experience guiding entrepreneurs from the structured healthcare environment into the dynamic business realm, Suzy combines her extensive corporate and medical background with her deep understanding of mindset and personal growth.

As the founder of Starting a Business Simplified and a certified Trauma Energetics Coach, Suzy is dedicated to helping others overcome limiting beliefs and succeed on their own terms.

My mission is to help people turn their professional expertise into thriving businesses, just as I did after healing from my own trauma. I’m eager to share my journey and the lessons I’ve learned as a guest on podcasts focused on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and career transitions. I believe that with the right support and a commitment to healing, anyone can achieve success on their own terms—and I’m here to help make that happen.

Connect with Suzy :

Website

Facebook

LinkedIn

YouTube

Resources:

Starting A Business Simplified

Higher Purpose Entrepreneur Community

Books:

Discovering Something Greater: Find Joy, Purpose, and Fulfillment on Your Terms Paperback by Mary Reiss Farias, Kristin Gudenkauf, Kimberly Crossland, Casie Rendon

Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender by David R. Hawkins

Podcasts:

Ep. 1 Crystalizing Your Business Vision: Defining the Service You Want to Offer

Starting a Business Simplified with Suzy Wraines

Pockets of Knowledge Podcast hosted by Desiree Stanley

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If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired & empowered!

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This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. This episode may contain advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

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49 MIN
#121. Tax Debt Solutions: How to Resolve IRS Issues and Take Control of Your Finances with Morgan Anderson
FEB 5, 2025
#121. Tax Debt Solutions: How to Resolve IRS Issues and Take Control of Your Finances with Morgan Anderson

In this insightful episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Morgan Anderson, founder of Golden Lion Tax Solutions and an enrolled agent licensed by the IRS with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and businesses navigate complex tax situations. With tax season just around the corner, Morgan shares practical advice, insider tips, and expert guidance on managing tax debt, dealing with the IRS, and setting up your finances for success.

Morgan explains how tax issues arise, from personal income tax challenges to business-related sales and payroll tax debts. She shares real-life stories of clients struggling with unexpected tax burdens—whether from natural disasters, financial hardships, or simple filing mistakes—and walks listeners through the best ways to resolve tax debt without fear. She breaks down how to communicate with the IRS, set up manageable payment plans, and understand your rights, emphasizing that there’s always a solution—no matter how overwhelming the situation may seem.

Desiree and Morgan also discuss proactive financial planning for entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of bookkeeping, tax planning, and working with knowledgeable professionals to avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re an individual facing a tax bill you can’t pay or a small business owner looking to stay compliant while maximizing deductions, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert strategies to help you take control of your finances with confidence.

Morgan’s passion for helping others is evident throughout the conversation, making tax talk less intimidating and more empowering. Tune in to learn how to face tax challenges head-on, protect your financial future, and find peace of mind in the process.

Bio:

Morgan Q. Anderson, EA, has been relentlessly representing her clients before the IRS and state tax agencies for over 24 years.  During that time, she has resolved thousands of clients' personal and business tax debt issues for income, payroll, and sales taxes.  To say she has handled pretty much any tax debt problem you can imagine is an understatement!  Her experience and knowledge have led to her publishing a book called "Tax Debt Rule #1... There's ALWAYS a Solution!" that individuals and tax professionals can use as a guide for identifying where they are in the tax debt collection process and the steps they can begin to take to move towards a resolution.

Connect with Morgan:

Website: https://www.goldenliontaxsolutions.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065009094636

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-anderson-ea/

Resources: 

Free Training: Intro to Resolving IRS or State Tax Debt - 

https://corn-chimpanzee.webinarninja.com/automated-webinars/22667/register?wid=10636606

https://www.goldenliontaxsolutions.com/am-i-a-candidate.php

Books mentioned:

Tax Debt Rule #1: There's ALWAYS A Solution Kindle by Morgan Anderson (Author) - https://amzn.to/40P2VQq

The Accountability Code: Wake Up and Show Up by Marci Barker (Author) -https://amzn.to/42LvG30

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Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered!

Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening!

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This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

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47 MIN
#120. Overcoming Addiction: Healing and Transformation with Mary Beth Schrudder
JAN 29, 2025
#120. Overcoming Addiction: Healing and Transformation with Mary Beth Schrudder

In this heartfelt and deeply inspiring episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Mary Beth Schrudder, founder of Day One Life Coaching, spiritual transformational coach, and creator of the Recovery with the Law of Attraction card deck. Together, they share an open and honest conversation about Mary Beth’s incredible journey from the depths of addiction and personal struggle to finding her purpose as a life coach, guiding others toward healing and self-discovery.

Mary Beth courageously reflects on her past, sharing how childhood trauma, including her parents’ divorce and early experiences with addiction, shaped her life and led to decades of denial about her struggles. She talks about her turning points, including the realization that alcohol, so normalized in society, was disrupting her life and health. Through insights from the book Alcohol Explained and her own journey of spiritual awakening, Mary Beth discovered the profound impact of self-awareness and the role of spirituality in recovery.

The conversation is filled with wisdom and practical advice. Mary Beth introduces her Recovery with the Law of Attraction card deck, which helps individuals reframe their mindset and raise their vibration as part of their healing journey. She also shares her "LOVE" acronym for intentional dating, offering guidance to those navigating relationships with clarity and purpose.

This episode is a source of hope and encouragement for anyone facing addiction, seeking personal growth, or simply wanting to live a more intentional and authentic life. Mary Beth’s story is a testament to the power of self-love, resilience, and the courage to change.

Bio:

After decades spent in the corporate world, juggling being a single mom while secretly battling addictions to alcohol, food, and toxic relationships, today's guest is now an expert in Spiritual Recovery, and she is passionate about empowering others to live their best life. Mary Beth Schrudder is a Spiritual and Transformational Life Coach and founder of Day One Life Coaching. 

Mary Beth is the creator of Addiction Recovery with the Law of Attraction, a unique deck of cards used to help people recover from addictions and destructive habits. Mary Beth is also an International Best-Selling Author in multiple categories including Healthy Relationships and Leadership Training (Life Coach's Tool Kit, Vol 3). As the host of the “Spiritual Transformation Podcast with Mary Beth” she does interviews with healers and the spiritually gifted, along with solo episodes on Spiritual Upliftment for her audience. 

Connect with Mary Beth:

Email

Website

Linktr.ee

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

TikTok

Books mentioned:

 Alcohol Explained by William Porter

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by  Eckhart Tolle

 Dr. Wayne Dyer, Louise Hay, 

Becoming Supernatural: How Common People are Doing the Uncommon by Dr Joe Dispenza

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr Joe Dispenza

Podcasts mentioned:

Spiritual Transformation Podcast with Mary Beth

Next Level Soul Podcast with  Alex Ferrari

Documentary:

 One Little Pill

———

If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired & empowered!

Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com.

———

This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. This episode may contain advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.

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51 MIN