Guest: Gary Roberts - 20-Year Firefighter & Founder of Neurovus

Host: Julie Riga

Julie sits down with Gary Roberts, a 20-year Fort Lauderdale firefighter who transformed personal tragedy into mission. After losing his daughter to an opioid overdose on her 27th birthday, Gary created Neurovus, an AI-powered mental health platform combining biometrics, voice-driven AI, and evidence-based therapies to provide support before crisis hits.

Gary shares three essential ingredients for building unbreakable resilience: consistency, continuous learning, and mental toughness. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone overcoming obstacles, this episode offers actionable insights on moving forward when life knocks you down.

Gary is a 20-year veteran firefighter and founder of Neurovus. His journey includes breaking nearly every bone in his body, being stranded in Florida with nothing, building multiple fitness studios, and facing devastating loss. As a hazmat special operations team member, Gary combines fitness discipline, firefighting mental toughness, and compassionate understanding from profound personal loss.

Fun Fact: Despite being a fitness professional, Gary's favorite food is strawberry cheesecake!

1. Consistency: Moving the Needle Forward

• Do one thing daily to create momentum
• Take one step at a time (staircase principle)
• Track progress visually
• Focus on the end result, not difficulty

2. Continuous Learning: Every Experience is Education

• Treat failures as curves to overcome, not mistakes
• Listen more than you speak
• Build partnerships through genuine curiosity
• Learn from every experience

3. Mental Toughness: Work Through What You Don't Want to Do

• Physical and mental fitness work together
• Focus on post-completion feelings
• The 100 pull-ups principle: if you can do one, you can do 100
• Practice breathing techniques for decompression
• Teach loved ones to ask for "help" not present "problems"

Gary reveals harsh truths: no formal mental health training, "suck it up" culture, 24/7 alertness, constant worst-case thinking, high divorce rates, and PTSD indicators. First responders live in perpetual readiness, impacting home life.

"It's not how hard you get punched down, it's how many times you get back up."

"Think of the end result first, not what you're doing to get there."

"Resilience becomes part of you, not an obstacle to overcome."

Innovative platform using biometric integration, voice-driven AI, and evidence-based therapies for proactive mental health support—designed for first responders and high performers.

Website: www.neurovus.com

Instagram: @GRoberts_PIR

Email: garyroberts@neurovus.com

1. Consistency beats intensity
2. Learn from failures
3. Mental and physical health connect
4. Visualize end results
5. Resilience is built through persistence
6. Your story determines outcomes
7. Seek help before crisis
8. Take one step at a time

Legacy: Honoring Gary's daughter and Julie's father, whose teaching "seven times down, eight times up" captures resilience.

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#StayOnCourse #Resilience #MentalToughness #FirstResponders #Leadership

This episode marks an exciting milestone for the podcast. After launching in 2022, the show has officially begun charting on Apple Podcasts, and the momentum is just getting started. The focus for this year is clear and ambitious becoming a Top Ten podcast in the Entrepreneurship category.

Listeners are invited into the Before I Lead community on Skool, a free space designed for small business owners who want greater visibility, stronger leadership skills, and real connection. The community offers weekly networking and conversations centered on growing and leading a business with intention.

The heart of the podcast is learning directly from small business owners and experts who share their real world ingredients for success. Topics include marketing, sales, lead generation, podcasting, social media visibility, and using speaking as a powerful accelerator for business growth.

This episode also highlights the importance of visibility through podcasting and stages both local and virtual, along with a behind the scenes look at attending Podfest in Orlando to deepen conversations around podcast monetization and audience growth.

Rooted in legacy, the podcast continues to honor the influence of Julie’s father, Ennio Riga, whose mentorship and impact shaped generations. His legacy inspires the mission to help others share meaningful messages that create transformation.

The episode closes with insight into the Before I Speak program, which supports emerging speakers in building confidence, presence, and a powerful internal story before stepping onto any stage.

This podcast exists to educate, inspire, and equip listeners to grow intentionally, lead boldly, and stay on course as they build businesses and legacies that matter.

To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

🌐 www.julieriga.com

🌟 Explore transformative coaching sessions at www.beforeilead.com

🔗 Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/julieriga

I'm Julie Riga—a leadership coach, speaker, certified trainer, author, voice actor, and proud host of the Stay On Course podcast. With over 20 years of experience in the pharma, biotech, and life sciences industries, I specialize in empowering high-achieving professionals to lead with clarity, purpose, and resilience.

I work with:

• CEOs, Founders, and Executives who want to lead with authenticity and impact
• C-suite leaders and senior managers looking to improve executive presence and public speaking
• Entrepreneurs and business owners navigating growth, leadership challenges, and career fulfillment
• HR and operations leaders seeking strategic development tools and confidence coaching

Many of my clients come to me when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or out of alignment. They’re looking to:

• Boost leadership clarity and overcome self-doubt
• Develop executive presence and master public speaking
• Reignite their purpose and unlock their full potential
• Balance career ambition with personal fulfillment
• Stay resilient in high-pressure environments

Whether you're a tech founder, a service-based business owner, or a corporate executive ready to elevate your leadership game, my programs—including Before I Lead, Before I Speak, Before I Sell, and Before I Calendar—are designed to help you take action, grow sustainably, and leave a lasting legacy.

Discover your purpose. Stay on Course. Leave a Legacy.

Embark on an unbelievable journey with Blaine Bartlett, a leadership expert and bestselling author, as he unveils the secrets to entrepreneurial success and the soul of business on the latest episode of the Stay on Course Podcast. Discover the transformative power of mindset, overcoming fear, and the terror barrier as essential steps in personal and professional growth. Dive deep into the realms of imagination and learn how it shapes reality, driving innovation in the business world. Blaine Bartlett, with his #1 international bestseller "Compassionate Capitalism," guides you on a thought-provoking exploration of leadership development, compassionate capitalism, and the journey of the soul, offering valuable tips and insights that will motivate you to lead with purpose and abundance in both your professional and personal life. Tune in to Stay on Course Podcast for an enriching conversation that challenges your inner dialogue, paving the way for scrumptious success and an extraordinary journey toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. 🚀💡 #LeadershipDevelopment #CompassionateCapitalism #JourneyOfTheSoul #StayOnCoursePodcast #Success #Mindset #Imagination #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #ThoughtLeadership #BusinessInsights #BlaineBartlett #Motivation

The Unbelievable Journey to the Soul for Leadership with Blaine Barlett

Join me on the latest episode of the Stay on Course Podcast, featuring the remarkable Blaine Bartlett! 🚀 We're diving deep into the profound wisdom of leadership development, compassion in capitalism, and the journey of the soul. ✨

In this episode "Journey of the Soul," Blaine Bartlett takes us on a transformative exploration into the heart and soul of leadership, revealing the essential elements that connect us all in the world of business and beyond. 🌍

Here are some key takeaways from our enlightening conversation:

1️. Mindset: Uncover how our mindset is everything and learn how overcoming fear and terror barrier is crucial for personal and professional growth.

2️. Imagination: Explore the power of imagination in shaping our reality and driving innovation in the business world.

3️. Conversation: Discover how our experiences of the soul are intricately tied to the conversations we have within ourselves. These inner dialogues can either hold us back or propel us toward success, shaping the very essence of our personal and professional lives. 🗣️✨

Blaine Bartlett, the author of the #1 international bestseller "Compassionate Capitalism: A Journey to the Soul of Business," has personally impacted the lives of over one million people worldwide. 📚✨

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode on Stay on Course Podcast and let's embark on a journey to the soul together with Blaine Bartlett! 🎧💫

#LeadershipDevelopment #CompassionateCapitalism #JourneyOfTheSoul #StayOnCoursePodcast #Leadership #Mindset #Imagination #InnerConversations #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #ThoughtLeadership #BusinessInsights #julieriga #pharma #pharmacoach

To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you Stay On Course, visit her website: www.stayoncourse.io

Julie Riga is a certified coach, trainer, speaker and author with over 20 years of experience in the Pharma Industry. Julie’s education is vast with studies that include business, communications, training and executive coaching.

Julie started on this journey because she had a strong desire to pass on the knowledge and skills passed on to her by her father, Ennio Riga, and inspirational man who taught her how to keep going irrespective of the challenges that life may present you with.

Based in New Jersey, Julie have travelled the world supporting corporations, business leaders and individuals on their journey of empowerment and growth.

Discover your purpose, Stay on Course, Leave a Legacy

#pharma #lifescienceleadership #biotech #leadership #stayoncourse #julieriga

Guest: Doris Fink, President of Plan B 2000 Inc | Host: Julie Riga

Julie sits down with Doris Fink, who turned an unexpected $300,000 opportunity into two decades of helping professionals create their Plan B. Doris shares her journey from single mom working three jobs to successful business owner, revealing the truth nobody talks about—why the first two years are hardest and how franchise ownership provides the structure that makes all the difference. If you're stuck in corporate America or ready for your Phase 2 career, this conversation will inspire you to leap with clarity and confidence.

Doris and Julie explore Phase 1 versus Phase 2 careers, the power of structure in entrepreneurship, and why passion alone isn't enough. Doris shares authentic insights including sleepless nights, tough decisions, and realizing she'd built someone else's dream—plus practical guidance for professionals ready for business ownership with purpose.

Doris Fink, President of Plan B 2000 Inc, has over 20 years helping professionals build lives of freedom, fulfillment, and legacy through smart business ownership. Her journey spans healthcare executive to diagnostic business owner to franchise success.

Fun Fact: Favorite dessert is sunshine cake with chocolate in the frosting.

The Entrepreneurship Journey:

• A $300,000 opportunity that changed everything
• Phase 1 (career you need) vs. Phase 2 (career you want)
• Years 1-3 truth: Year 3 is when you turn the corner

Three Ingredients for Success:

1. Interest in business development
2. Great interpersonal skills
3. Business sense or knowing where to get help Bonus: A clear WHY
4. 
   

• Year 1: Investment phase, expenses outweigh income
• Year 2: Steady but supplemental
• Year 3: The turning point
• Capital needs often misunderstood

Professionals 45-65 who've climbed the ladder, been passed over or laid off, or asked to compromise values. Anyone with sleepless nights knowing they need change—with family support and right timing.

Don't confuse passion with business sense. Many love pets but a pet business might be wrong. Find the intersection of interest, skill set, and market opportunity.

No-fee, no-pressure consultations assessing family support, timing, capital, and skills. Doris builds friendships, not just client relationships.

1. Do I have the energy?
2. Do I have the personality for uncertainty?
3. Do I have family support?
4. Is timing right?
5. What's my WHY?

• LinkedIn: Doris Fink (in Florida, not Germany!)
• Company: Plan B 2000 Inc

1. Corporate skills transfer
2. Structure accelerates success
3. Year 3 is the turning point
4. Family support essential
5. Get guidance from experienced advisors.

"Try the sunshine cake!" But seriously: "Follow your heart. Just do what you feel is right and get advice from someone who has the experience and not only is talking the talk but is walking the walk."

Perfect for anyone in corporate America wondering "is there something more?" and leaders ready to create their Plan B with clarity and confidence.

🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course

💡 Share with professionals ready for Phase 2

What if the key to your greatest success isn't waiting until you feel confident but acting despite your fear? Marine Corps veteran Jill Schulman reveals why professionals are stuck in comfort that masquerades as happiness, and how developing bravery transforms your career and life. Drawing from 25 years of leadership development and positive psychology research, Jill shares three evidence-based ingredients to build your "bravery muscle."

Guest: Jill Schulman, US Marine Corps Veteran, Leadership Consultant & Author

Host: Julie Riga

1. Warrior Mindset (Cognitive Psychology)

• Use the Power of Yet: shift from "can't" to "can't yet"
• Reframe stress as enhancing rather than debilitating
• Embrace challenges as stepping stones to growth

2. Brave Action (Behavioral Psychology)

• Stop waiting to feel ready or confident
• Attack the Day: do hardest tasks first when cognitive resources are highest
• Plan the night before like Marines preparing for a mission

3. Build a Brave Tribe (Social Psychology)

• Surround yourself with people pursuing ambitious goals
• Seek mentors operating at higher levels
• Ask for feedback to elevate performance

"Bravery is voluntary action taken in the presence of fear toward a worthwhile goal."

"People confuse comfort with happiness. So many live a life of 'ugh' but they're not seeking discomfort."

"Stop waiting to feel ready. You have to attack the day."

"Feedback is the breakfast of champions."

1. Comfort does not equal happiness
2. Confidence comes from action, not before it
3. Do hardest things first when cognitive resources are highest
4. Your tribe shapes you
5. Bravery is a muscle built through daily practice
6. Embrace the suck: harder journeys create sweeter victories
7. Seek feedback fearlessly

Add "Yet": Transform "can't" to "can't yet"

Attack the Day: Plan before bed, tackle hard tasks first

Build Your Tribe: Connect with people at higher levels

Seek Feedback: Ask what you can do better

Leadership consultant, keynote speaker, and author of The Bravery Effect. With 25+ years developing leaders from battlefield to boardroom, she combines Marine Corps discipline with University of Pennsylvania positive psychology expertise. Her mission: help professionals go from "safe and stuck" to "bold and brave."

Website: www.jillschulman.com

• Free Bravery Assessment
• Brave Action Guide
• Discussion Guide for teams

Book: The Bravery Effect

Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook

Podcast: Stay On Course Podcast

Program: Before I Lead

Website: julieriga.com/lead

Focus: Leadership coaching, purpose-driven transformation, legacy building

When you consistently practice bravery, you look in the mirror with pride, accomplish goals you once thought impossible, and stop looking back at life with regret. You become the person you're meant to be and live your most fulfilled, successful, authentic life.

The choice is yours: Stay safe and stuck, or become bold and brave.

Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts

Guest: Theresa Benvenuto, Doctor of Connections

Host: Julie Riga

Episode Type: Special Holiday Edition - Year in Review

Overview

In this special holiday edition, Julie sits down with Theresa Benvenuto (affectionately known as "Benvenuts" and the "Doctor of Connections") to reflect on an extraordinary year of growth, transformation, and meaningful relationships. Together, they celebrate the wins, share lessons learned, and look ahead to the opportunities awaiting in 2026. This episode is a heartwarming reminder that success isn't just about what you achieve. It's about who you become and the connections you nurture along the way.

Julie and Theresa reflect on an extraordinary 2025 filled with networking adventures, leadership growth, and meaningful transformations. From the Vault Conference to building the Before I Lead program, they share behind-the-scenes stories and remind us that the sweetness of business lies in the relationships we build.

Theresa Benvenuto brings 20+ years of pharmaceutical experience into her second career as a business development specialist and connector extraordinaire. Her nickname "Doctor of Connections" reflects her gift for getting people "Directly On Calendar" (DOC) and creating meaningful business relationships that lead to transformation.

Fun Fact: Theresa's favorite holiday cookie is the Christmas Tree, an Italian S-cookie from her grandmother's recipe that she makes every year in her memory.

The Birth of "Doctor of Connections": How Theresa's identity evolved from Doctor of Pharmacy to Doctor of Connections, capturing her passion for business development and networking.

2025 Highlights:

• The Vault Conference in Florida
• Building the Before I Lead Program
• The Before I Sell Initiative and LinkedIn strategy
• Epic Networking Group and holiday networking events

The Power of Accountability: How the Before I Lead program provides leaders with accountability that accelerates growth and proves that prospecting work done today shows results 30 days later.

"We planted a lot of seeds this year, and our plants and roses and beautiful flowers are gonna grow in 2026."

"We get lost in the flurry of all the work that we have to do that we forget the sweetness of business. And the sweetness of business is the relationships that we build."

"If I can help you change the way you're doing something that is plaguing you, then I've done my job."

1. Relationships Are the Sweetness of Business - Prioritize authentic connection over tasks
2. Accountability Accelerates Growth - Join groups that challenge your limiting beliefs
3. The 30-Day Rule Works - Consistent prospecting today creates results in 30 days
4. Challenge Your Stories - Rewrite the narratives holding you back
5. Invest in Yourself First - Make your growth a non-negotiable investment
6. Network with Purpose - Show up authentically everywhere
7. Aha Moments Change Everything - Stay open to transformation

Theresa Benvenuto: Doctor of Connections specializing in Business Development, LinkedIn Strategy, and Networking

Julie Riga: Leadership Coach offering Before I Lead program

Holiday Wishes: Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year! Here's to a healthy, purposeful, and transformational 2026. Stay on course! 🌟

🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts

#LeadershipGrowth #PurposeDrivenLeadership #StayOnCoursePodcast #BeforeILead #AuthenticConnection