A few years ago, I was interviewed by Scott Pinyard on This Naked Mind podcast, and he asked me “who would play you in a movie about your life?”. This was an unexpected question, so I answered on the spot “Reese Witherspoon”. It was a fun moment, but what I have come to realize since then is that the person I really want to play the lead in my life story is ME!
I think the most courageous thing we can do is be the lead(er) in our own life. Becoming alcohol-free has allowed me to be not only the lead in my life story, but also the director and the scriptwriter. What a difference from when I just drifted along, going through the motions and drinking each day to try and feel some sense of pleasure or control. Now I design my life with intention, paying attention to my choices, opportunities and identity along the way. This doesn’t happen overnight, in fact, I am still learning things about myself 8+ years into this AF journey. But, the cool thing is that I now take responsibility for my direction, creating my own happiness and building a life I don’t want to escape from. It might be just me, but have you ever played this game in your head: “I wonder what it would be like to be that person. I wish I had their life. It looks so amazing.” Now, when I look at other people’s lives, I recognize that I am only seeing part of it; I know that even if I was transported into Reese’s life, it would come with its own set of fears, doubts and troubles. So, I find myself more contented each day to be me.
My guest on the podcast today is Toni Will, Senior This Naked Mind Coach, General Manager of the Kalamazoo Wings and champion for women in pro sports. Toni is an amazing leader who has focused her career on creating and leading winning teams, both on and off the ice.
We had a rich conversation about how living your authentic life helps you show up in EVERY area of your life. Toni is candid about what it takes to be a woman in pro sports and what sponsors are doing about offering non-alcoholic beverages. Toni shares her ‘pinch me’ moment when she was reading a recent article written about her rise in the male-dominated field of pro sports and her personal journey to alcohol-freedom. I am so excited to share this conversation with all of you!
Here are some highlights:
- Toni’s 6 leadership pillars
- The toxic work culture that changed her career path
- What it looks like now to ‘belly up to the bar’ to cut business deals
- How to stick your neck out
- Creating gratitude for where you are right now
- How dyeing the ice ‘rainbow’ is changing lives
Here is the article that was written about Toni for National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 7th): Glass Shattered and a Seat for Everyone
Connect with Toni here: Mindfulness Elevated
More about Hockey: Kalamazoo Wings
Want to check out T.E.A. with Teri or share with a friend? You can view and subscribe to my YouTube Channel HERE
