When life pulls the rug out from under you, do you sink into the struggle or choose how you rise?

Grab the companion episode Activation Guide.

In this powerful episode of The Story I'm Telling Myself, host Rita Ernst sits down with inspiration specialist Russ Hedge.

After spending years as a caregiver for his parents through Alzheimer’s and cancer, Russ received his own Stage 4 melanoma diagnosis just one week after his mother passed away. From emergency brain surgeries to severe physical setbacks, Russ shares how he transformed terminal news into an empowering movement of radical resilience and self-leadership.

If you are looking for an impactful self-improvement or self-help podcast, this conversation delivers a masterclass in emotional ownership and personal transformation.

Russ introduces the "Divine Equation" (Circumstances + Perspective = Experience) and explains why authentic positivity isn't about ignoring pain, but reclaiming control over your internal narrative.

Key Takeaways & Frameworks:

• The C + P = E Formula: Why your perspective—not your circumstances—defines your total life experience.
• Avoiding Toxic Positivity: How to honor heavy emotions without wallowing in them.
• The Awesome Filter & RAS: Rewiring your Reticular Activating System through daily morning routines.
• Ditching the Victim Narrative: Reframing life's sucker punches into purpose-driven growth.

Whether you need a mindset pick-me-up or actionable tools for your personal growth journey, this self-development episode will equip you to reframe your hardest moments.

Connect with Russ and get his book, "Life Happens, Then You Choose"Connect with host Rita Ernst.