Finding Your Inspiration
byJill Van Balen
BusinessNon-ProfitEducationSelf-Improvement
Ignite a spark of inspiration, unlock your boundless potential, and pursue your passion with the Finding Your Inspiration podcast! Join host Paul Tully as he delves into captivating stories of individuals who have defied odds, conquered challenges, and pursued their dreams with unwavering courage. Each story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, celebrating the resilience and triumphs of individuals from all walks of life. Co-created by National CORE Founder Jeff Burum, FYI Host Paul Tully, and National CORE SVP of Marketing/Communications Jill Van Balen, Finding Your Inspiration is a National CORE Production benefiting the Hope through Housing...
Episodes(40 episodes)
Season 2 - Episode 111
#111 | Graffiti, Survival & Second Chances: How Efrain Turned It Around
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Efrain Aguiar — former graffiti tagger, street kid, and survivor — to talk about identity, survival mode, and the moment that forced him to choose a different path. Growing up, tagging wasn't just about spray paint and walls. It was about belonging. It was about recognition. It was about navigating an environment where survival came first and consequences felt distant. But street life doesn't stay small. Efrain shares what it was like living in that world, the pressure that comes with it, and the reality check that made him...
Published: Feb 23, 2026Duration: 57m 40s
Season 2 - Episode 110
#110 | When Life Gets Heavy, You Keep Going: Ralph Bracco's Story
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, host Paul Tully sits down with longtime friend Ralph Bracco for a real, honest conversation about family, loss, and what it means to keep going when life gets heavy. As two old friends catching up, Ralph opens up about caring for his parents, losing them, and how that experience reshaped his perspective on success, gratitude, and purpose. He also reflects on life as a working actor — staying consistent, grounded, and committed to the dream while never losing sight of what matters most. This episode is about perseverance in its truest fo...
Published: Feb 11, 2026Duration: 23m 17s
Season 2 - Episode 109
#109 | She Turned Life's Challenges into Strength: Theresa Farrell
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Theresa Farrell to talk about resilience, self-belief, and what it really means to keep going—especially when life doesn't unfold the way you expected. Theresa's story is one of growth shaped by challenge. From navigating difficult moments early on to learning how to stand confidently in who she is today, her journey is a powerful reminder that strength isn't about avoiding hardship—it's about how you respond to it. But this conversation goes deeper than the past. This episode is about strength, perspective, and progress—about being...
Published: Feb 5, 2026Duration: 25m 0s
Season 2 - Episode 108
#108 | NFL Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson: Legacy Beyond the Game
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Eric Dickerson — NFL Hall of Famer, Rams legend, philanthropist, and entrepreneur — to talk about legacy, purpose, and what it means to make an impact far beyond the game of football. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1983, Eric didn't just enter the NFL — he changed it. With 13,259 career rushing yards (8th all-time) and the NFL single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, a mark set in 1984 that still stands today, his on-field dominance is undeniable. But this conversation goes deeper than stats and highlights. Eric opens up abou...
Published: Jan 27, 2026Duration: 33m 7s
Season 2 - Episode 106
#106 | Transformation Doesn't Happen Overnight: Aram Ramirez on Film Directing & Entrepreneurship
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Aram Ramirez to talk about navigating uncertainty, staying grounded when life feels heavy, and what it really takes to keep moving forward when the next step isn't clear. Aram shares how seasons of doubt, responsibility, and internal pressure shaped his outlook — and how learning to trust himself became the turning point. Through reflection and honesty, he opens up about choosing growth over comfort and showing up even when progress feels slow or unseen. His story is a reminder that transformation doesn't happen overnight. It ha...
Published: Jan 26, 2026Duration: 55m 8s
Season 1 - Episode 105
#105 | What Happens When You Stop Playing It Safe W/ Kandice Gonzalez
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Kandice Gonzalez to talk about navigating uncertainty, trusting yourself when the path isn't clear, and what it really takes to keep going when things feel heavy. As an actor chasing her dreams while also caring for her brother who has Down syndrome, Kandice shares how responsibility, love, and resilience have shaped her perspective — and how stepping into a new year became an opportunity to choose growth over comfort. Her story is a reminder that transformation doesn't happen overnight. It happens thro...
Published: Jan 5, 2026Duration: 43m 59s
Season 2 - Episode 103
#103 | Portraying Lenny Bruce: The Play That Changed Ronnie Marmo's Life
In this episode of *Finding Your Inspiration*, Ronnie Marmo opens up about the realities behind the craft — the struggle, the discipline, the honesty, and the purpose that drives an artist forward. Ronnie, known for his powerful one-man show on Lenny Bruce, talks about: * What inspired him to bring Lenny's story to life * Why authenticity is everything for an actor * His own battles, setbacks, and breakthroughs * The discipline and resilience required to stay in the game * How storytelling becomes healing — for both the artist and the audience ...
Published: Dec 9, 2025Duration: 41m 25s
Season 2 - Episode 102
#102 | The Story Behind the D'Ellena Winery (In Memory of Claude Ellena)
This episode was filmed on September 29, 2025, just weeks before Claude's passing. We are deeply honored to share his story — his family's incredible journey, the history behind the D'Ellena winery, and the legacy that shaped generations. Claude welcomed us into a world built on grit, craftsmanship, and heart. As National CORE becomes the new steward of this historic land, we remain committed to preserving the D'Ellena legacy and everything it represents. Thank you, Claude, for trusting us with your story. Your family's legacy will continue to inspire everyone who steps foot on the property. ––––– The F...
Published: Nov 25, 2025Duration: 45m 32s
Season 2 - Episode 101
#101 | Johnny Canizzaro on Pursuing His Acting Dream and Portraying Steven Van Zandt
Johnny Canizzaro shares how he pursued his acting dream, the defining moments that shaped his journey, and the incredible opportunity to portray Steven Van Zandt in the new Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere. Before stepping into an iconic role, Johnny had to understand who he was becoming — as an artist and as a man. In this episode, he opens up about the moments of doubt, the discipline behind the craft, and the identity work required to transform into someone as legendary as Van Zandt. This conversation is about chasing the dream, staying ready, and...
Published: Nov 19, 2025Duration: 48m 17s
Season 2 - Episode 100
#100 | How Sheila Conlin Built a Legacy That Shaped Modern Entertainment
Sheila Conlin is more than a casting director—she's a trailblazer who helped define an entire genre of television. Over a 15-year span, she evolved from talent agent to casting visionary to executive producer, leading the charge on some of primetime's most iconic unscripted series In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Sheila shares how she broke into the entertainment industry, built a new standard for casting and production, and what it truly means to trust your gut when no one else sees the vision. Whether you're building something from scratch, navigating uncharted waters, or simply wondering if...
Published: Nov 11, 2025Duration: 57m 33s
Season 2 - Episode 99
#99 | Inside the Mind of a Psychic Medium (Laura Cifaldi Explains the Unseen)
What do people really come to mediums for? In this episode, we explore grief, closure, "signs" from loved ones, and how readings can bring clarity when you need it most. We also dig into ethics, evidence, and what the afterlife might be like — including pets crossing over and the power of automatic writing. Laura's Socials 🌐https://www.lauracifaldinewjerseymedium.com/ 📸https://www.instagram.com/laura_cifaldi/ 📸 https://www.facebook.com/lauracifaldinewjerseymedium National CORE & Hope Through Housing 🌐 https://nationalcore.org 📘 https://facebook.com/nationalcore <...
Published: Oct 27, 2025Duration: 58m 11s
Season 2 - Episode 98
#98 | The Power of Hope: Finding Your Inspiration Season 2 Highlights
From heartbreak to healing, struggle to strength — every guest this season had one thing in common: hope. This compilation celebrates the moments that reminded us why we do what we do — to share stories that inspire transformation and remind us that no matter where you are, hope is always the first step toward change. ✨ Watch. Feel. Believe. Subscribe for more stories that prove one spark of hope can change everything. External Links Section 📲 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fyi.findingyourinspiration?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=NnMxMTB6NmE5NDRo 💙</p...
Published: Oct 14, 2025Duration: 3m 57s
Season 2 - Episode 97
#97 | How We Said Yes to a Half Ironman with Only 6 Months to Train
What started as a simple chat with past guest and para-athlete David Whelan became a life-changing decision: the Finding Your Inspiration team would run a Half Ironman in Muncie, Indiana — with only six months to train. In this special segment, host Jack Rothman sits down with Paulie, Norma, and Andrew to unpack the decision, the training struggles, and the emotional moments that came with race day. From nutrition battles to mental breakdowns, from last-place finishes to unexpected breakthroughs, the team proves that saying yes to something bigger can change everything. Alongside David Whelan, whose resilience co...
Published: Oct 6, 2025Duration: 58m 18s
Season 2 - Episode 96
#96 | How One Man is Making Sure Thousands of Kids Are Getting Fed
What does it take to change a community? For Greg Quezada, it starts with a single meal. Through Allison's Project, Greg provides hot meals to kids in after-school programs—giving hope, consistency, and connection to families who need it most. In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Greg shares why he started Allison's Project, how it honors the legacy of a close friend, and why service in your own backyard is more powerful than you might think. His story is proof that one person's calling can ripple out to impact thousands. Chapters 0:00 – Am I do...
Published: Sep 23, 2025Duration: 30m 55s
Season 2 - Episode 95
#95 | How a Young Country Artist is Marketing Her Music in 2025: Macie Rae
At just 14 years old, singer-songwriter Macie Rae Lewis is already learning what it takes to chase a dream. From her first garage band to performing at the O.C. Fair, auditioning for America's Got Talent and The Voice, and preparing for American Idol, Macie is building her career one step at a time. In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Macie shares how she uses merch, social media, and pure determination to promote herself as an artist in today's world. Her story is a reminder that inspiration knows no age—and that success comes from per...
Published: Sep 16, 2025Duration: 29m 22s
Season 2 - Episode 97
#94 | The Power of Saying Yes: Bella Balsamo's Life-Changing Story
On this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, Bella Balsoma shares her powerful story of survival. After a near-death experience, Bella was forced to reimagine what life truly means — and she chose to embrace every moment with her mantra: say yes to life. Her journey is a reminder that we don't get forever. Every day is a choice, every opportunity is a gift, and every "yes" can lead to transformation. 👉 If this conversation resonates with you, don't forget to subscribe and join us each week for more stories that inspire. 📍 Learn more about Bella Balsamo <...
Published: Sep 15, 2025Duration: 36m 57s
Season 2 - Episode 96
#93 | Stop Waiting. Start Trying: Liam Fountain
What if the only thing between you and your next chapter is… trying? Liam Fountain wears many hats—actor, USA Masters amateur boxing champ, stunt/fight performer, and president of an Irish Catholic fraternity. His story proves a simple rule: if you don't try, nothing happens. From hotel housekeeping to PA gigs, bar security, Jimmy Kimmel Live! bits, and stepping into the ring over 40—Liam shows how discipline and action beat doubt every time 📍 Learn more about Liam Fountain 📸 https://www.instagram.com/liam_fountain_/ 🌐 https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1446680/ National...
Published: Sep 2, 2025Duration: 35m 57s
Season 2 - Episode 95
#92 | Breaking Barriers in Politics: Fiona Ma's Inspiring Story
In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Fiona Ma, the California State Treasurer. From growing up as the oldest child of immigrant parents in New York, to becoming one of the most influential women in California politics, Fiona's journey is rooted in perseverance, public service, and financial expertise. She shares her story of breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces, her passion for affordable housing and homeownership, and the personal experiences that shaped her belief in equity, education, and opportunity for all Californians. Fiona's message is clear: get involved, stay informed, and never underestimate the...
Published: Aug 18, 2025Duration: 31m 36s
Season 2 - Episode 93
#91 | 34 Years, One Mission: Shannon D. Dicus Serving the People of San Bernadino County
In this episode, we sit down with Shannon D. Dicus, the 36th Sheriff of San Bernardino County, to explore his powerful journey from a small desert town to leading one of the largest sheriff's departments in the U.S. From his military roots to working the jail system, from VA policing to turning down a shot at the FBI, Sheriff Dicus shares what really led him to a career in law enforcement—and why he's stayed for over 34 years. You'll hear untold stories about jail rehabilitation, fighting addiction and homelessness, confronting offi...
Published: Aug 5, 2025Duration: 46m 9s
Season 2 - Episode 93
#90 | Building Wealth Isn't Magic—It's a Plan: Malik Mallory's Financial Journey
Malik Mallory isn't just a financial advisor—he's a self-made entrepreneur who built his own wealth management firm from the ground up. In this episode, he shares how growing up around crime, hardship, and systemic disadvantage fueled his desire to do better—for himself, his family, and his community. He breaks down money myths, how anyone can start investing, and why owning your time is the ultimate wealth. ============================================================ 0:00 – Is the stock market only for the wealthy? 1:30 – From Moreno Valley to money mindset 5:00 – Skateboarding, leadership & financial awakening 9:45 – Le...
Published: Jul 28, 2025Duration: 49m 31s