Kevin Polky - The Journey

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on a powerful truth: learning to distinguish between what we can control and what we must learn to accept. He explores how our actions and responses are, in fact, the only things truly within our control. Kevin offers thoughtful insights on how embracing this mindset requires both wisdom and courage—and how doing so can bring greater peace, clarity, and strength in the face of life’s uncertainties.

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on the stress we all face in our daily lives and how it can often feel overwhelming. He explores practical tools to shift focus away from worry and toward gratitude, offering actionable steps to help listeners find balance and peace. Kevin also shares his personal morning ritual—a consistent practice that sets the tone for his day and supports effective stress management.

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin reflects on the importance of developing the whole person by focusing on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through personal stories, he highlights how intentional effort can lead to spiritual formation and growth. Kevin also shares an inspiring example from a football program that prioritized a character-first approach, focusing on the individual rather than just the athlete. These stories emphasize a powerful concept: thinking of ourselves as a collection of interconnected areas and understanding how working intentionally on each can help us become whole. Tune in for insights on creating balance and harmony in your journey toward personal growth.

On this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin is joined by Ashley Phillips, founder of Becoming Free Counseling Services in Rockford, Illinois. With over a decade of experience as a therapist, Ashley has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and embrace healing. In this episode, Ashley shares her personal story, reflecting on the childhood and young adult experiences that shaped her path and inspired her to create a counseling agency that prioritizes growth and freedom. Her vulnerability and insights offer a powerful look at how life’s challenges can lead to purpose and transformation. To learn more about Ashley and Becoming Free Counseling Services, visit their website and discover the resources they offer to support mental health and wellness.

This week on The Journey, Kevin sits down with Peggy Anderson, a true embodiment of resilience and determination. Peggy shares her upbringing on a family farm, where she developed a strong work ethic that has guided her through life’s challenges. She also takes us through her incredible journey into the world of fitness and bodybuilding, where she’s achieved remarkable success, earning her pro bodybuilding card for the third time. Peggy opens up about the physical and mental challenges of competing in bodybuilding and how the sport has shaped her into the person she is today. Peggy’s story is one of perseverance and transformation, and her dedication to helping others achieve their goals extends beyond fitness into all aspects of life. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to chase your dreams or insights into the discipline it takes to excel, this episode will leave you motivated and empowered.

This week on The Journey, Kevin welcomes back Ralph Velasco, a seasoned traveler, entrepreneur, and author. Ralph shares the evolution of his business over the past few years, transforming his photo enrichment company into a unique travel enterprise that immerses clients in the food, sights, and rich cultures of foreign lands. As an author of the three-book series The Mindful and Intentional Traveler, Ralph emphasizes the importance of being fully present during travel experiences. He offers insights on how to approach exploration with curiosity and purpose, allowing travelers to create deeper, more meaningful connections with the places they visit. Join Kevin and Ralph as they discuss the transformative power of travel, the joy of embracing new cultures, and the value of intentionality when experiencing the world. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your next adventure, this episode is sure to inspire you.

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and reset. In this episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin shares his thoughts on the power of reflection. He encourages listeners to look back at the moments, captured in photos and memories from the past year and use those insights to shape their desires and intentions for the year ahead. Join Kevin as he offers guidance on how to embrace this opportunity for growth and create a meaningful vision for the future.

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the timeless classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, uncovering the profound life lessons it holds. Through the lens of this beloved story, Kevin explores themes of self-reflection, transformation, and the power of embracing change. Drawing connections to the Hero’s Journey, he discusses how life’s challenges and setbacks often serve as a call to growth and renewal. By examining Scrooge’s journey of redemption, Kevin inspires listeners to consider their own paths of transformation and the importance of compassion, gratitude, and living with purpose—not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Join Kevin for this thoughtful exploration of a story that continues to resonate with audiences, offering valuable insights for personal growth and reflection.

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the profound idea of joy during this special time of year. Drawing inspiration from his connection to both Christianity and Native American traditions, Kevin explores the concept of a light placed within each of us at the moment of conception—a light deeply rooted in love and connection. Kevin shares how embracing this inner light can guide us to a sense of joy that transcends circumstances. By reflecting on the spiritual dimensions of love and our shared humanity, this episode invites listeners to reconnect with the source of their own joy and to let their inner light shine. Join Kevin for a thoughtful and inspiring reflection on the deeper meaning of joy and its role in our lives.

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the beauty of the changing seasons and the deeper lessons they offer. Just as nature transitions from one phase to the next, our lives are full of transformations that invite us to grow and evolve. Kevin discusses the importance of embracing these changes with an open heart and being present in the moment. By doing so, we create space to find gratitude and appreciation for the processes of transformation that surround us—both in nature and in our personal journeys.

In this episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the importance of taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. Life’s greatest opportunities often come with uncertainty, and Kevin discusses how to embrace those moments without the fear of failure holding you back. He explores how mistakes and setbacks are not only inevitable but also essential for growth. By focusing on what you can control and learning from each experience, you can develop resilience and move forward with greater confidence. Join Kevin for this thought-provoking reflection on the value of risk-taking and how overcoming the fear of failure can lead to personal transformation.

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky continues the discussion on cultivating a growth mindset by exploring Jocko Willink's concept of Extreme Ownership. This powerful principle challenges us to resist the temptation of blaming others for our circumstances and instead focus on our own actions and decisions. Kevin reflects on how embracing personal responsibility can lead to profound growth and learning, even in the face of adversity. By taking ownership of our role in any situation, we unlock the potential to learn, adapt, and improve—key elements of a growth mindset. Tune in to discover how Extreme Ownership can transform your perspective and help you navigate life’s challenges with accountability and purpose.

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky reflects on the transformative power of gratitude. Through intentional practice and taking time to acknowledge what we’re truly grateful for, gratitude can become a powerful tool for personal growth. Kevin explores how gratitude not only fosters a sense of appreciation but also builds resilience and promotes emotional and spiritual development. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or simply seeking a deeper connection to the present moment, this reflection offers valuable insights on the benefits of gratitude and how to incorporate it into your daily life. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that reminds us of the profound impact gratitude can have on our lives.

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin sits down with Lynne Conner, a seasoned freelance writer and journalist with over 20 years of experience covering stories in the greater Rockford area. Lynne shares insights from her career journey, highlighting the joys and challenges of freelance writing, and the importance of staying true to one’s passions. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply curious about the world of journalism, Lynne’s story is a powerful reminder of the fulfillment that comes from following what you love. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the value of passion, purpose, and persistence.

In this week’s episode of The Journey, Kevin Polky is joined by Olivia Gaumond, who courageously shares her story of living with and ultimately overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Olivia opens up about the darkest moments of her experience, revealing the struggles and challenges she faced and the pivotal turning point that marked the beginning of her recovery. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and strength, aiming to inspire and encourage those who may be struggling with OCD or know someone who is. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that reminds us that even in our darkest times, there is always hope and a path forward.

In this episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin shares his thoughts on why fall is his favorite season. From warm days and cool nights to the vibrant colors of the changing leaves and the excitement of football, Kevin talks about the beauty and simplicity of autumn. As he reflects on a peaceful walk with his dog through the park, Kevin discusses how the sights, sounds, and feel of nature serve as powerful reminders of God’s presence. Join Kevin as he shares a heartfelt reflection on finding peace, joy, and connection in the small moments of life during this special season.

Building Emotional Intelligence and Resilience in Children with Dr. Joe Mullikin In this week's episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin sits down with Dr. Joe Mullikin, an award-winning educator and leader with extensive experience across all levels of PreK-12 education. As the former Assistant Superintendent and Acting Superintendent of Meridian CUSD 223, Joe brings a unique perspective to the conversation on how we can better equip children for success. Together, Kevin and Joe dive deep into the concept of emotional intelligence—what it is, why it matters, and how we can nurture it in our children. They also discuss the importance of resilience and embracing failure as part of the learning process. This thought-provoking conversation offers valuable insights for educators, parents, and anyone invested in the development of the next generation. Tune in for a powerful discussion on raising emotionally intelligent, resilient children who are unafraid of failure!

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this week’s episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky tackles the critical issue of domestic violence. Kevin dives deep into how domestic violence starts, exploring the warning signs and the factors that contribute to this harmful behavior. He also offers practical advice on how individuals and communities can take action to help end domestic violence. Whether you or someone you know is affected, this episode provides valuable insights on how to support victims and create safer environments. Join us as we raise awareness and work toward ending the cycle of abuse. #DomesticViolenceAwareness #EndDomesticViolence

In this heartfelt episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin is joined by Sherrie Barch, an accomplished author, speaker, and CEO with a deep passion for storytelling. Sherrie opens up about her motivation behind writing Heaven’s Bell, a children’s book that focuses on helping families navigate the often challenging conversations around death and dying. Sherrie shares her vision of creating a safe and supportive space where loved ones can openly share memories and discuss grief in a meaningful way. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on the power of storytelling, healing, and the importance of addressing life’s most difficult moments with care and compassion.

Empowering Adoptive and Foster Families: A Conversation with Laura Adams In this week's episode of The Journey with Kevin Polky, Kevin is joined by Laura Adams, the passionate president and CEO of iCARE4 Adoptive And Foster Families. Laura shares her inspiring story of raising two internationally adopted daughters and how that experience fueled her mission to educate, equip, and empower those who support adoptive, foster, and kinship families. Through her organization, iCARE4, Laura provides vital resources to future parents and educators, helping them understand the unique challenges adoptees face throughout their lives. Tune in as Laura discusses her journey, the joys of adoption, and the importance of offering the right support and education to ensure every child has a chance to thrive.