#HPA2019

As I sit here amongst the trees on The Farm at South Mountain, I’m reminiscing of the incredible event I attended the past four days. My dreams are soaring beyond immeasurable heights. I couldn’t even imagine until now, the powerful changes that could be made from being around people who truly see the world in a different light. People who think outside of themselves. People who not only want success, but individuals who want to make a Bigger Impact in the World.

My heart is full. Something I’ve not felt in years. You know that kind of passion that can’t be contained when you see a glimpse of hope through endless windows of opportunity.

There comes a point in time when we ask ourselves, “Are we truly making a difference in the world?” What IS our purpose. Is there a reason for our existence? Do we sit in complacency, or do we stretch out our arms as far as they can reach, step out in faith, and dream beyond what we’ve dreamed before.

I attended a young man’s conference that “lit” my world…as my daughter would say. There were approximately 1,000 people in attendance who decided, like myself, to join a movement of believers who stand for Good in the world. The American Dream IS alive and well, but for some it lies dormant in the shadows for whatever reason.

It’s been an incredible four days of connection, excitement, aspiration, and love. I am completely filled to the brim with dreams that are possible and a hope for the generations to come. It’s about time we Rise, step out of the caged life, and Live the Life that we are Called to Live! It’s time we look beyond ourselves, and know that God has created us to do Big Things, because we serve a Big God!

As a nutritionist, cook, ceramic artist, photo-taker, stylist, and someone who stands for Food First over Pills, the time has come for me to give back. When you and I participate, we have a role in our society to be a part of change. We can stand for good or choose to stand for nothing. We have a choice.

As an American, I am so grateful to be a part of this life-giving country where we can participate in freedom of speech and have the choice to continue to build the American Dream. I’m thankful we can attend events where people come together for a higher purpose where we can feel free to hug, dance, encourage, and laugh; a place to connect in our deepest of deep…soul, that is.

I was extremely grateful that my daughter, Shea Forcade, was able to join me for the event in Phoenix, AZ. It’s a memory I’ll always cherish. We were both so blessed to be a part the joy, the love, the connection, and camaraderie.

By now, you might be wondering if I’m on my way to the “woo-woo farm” Ha! No, just here enjoying the peaceful presence at a local Arizona farm…replaying every moment in time from a four-day, incredible experience. The love and gratefulness I feel for so many people who filled my heart exponentially at that event was life-changing.  

So, let me tell you about some of these amazing people at the HPA experience. Drumroll please! He’s a #1 New York Times best-selling author and “the world’s leading high performance coach.” He’s one of the most sought-after motivational speakers who is transforming the world with his online courses, podcasts, YouTubes, and events! You name it, and he’s Owning It! His name is Brendon Burchard, and his warm-hearted, integrity-filled, witty-spirited self is hitting the world map at an unprecedented pace. His High Performance Academy event in Phoenix, Arizona, was beyond what I expected. I’ve attended a few conferences in my lifetime, and Brendon’s HPA2019 was by far the BEST with the dynamic awakening of “Owning It” in every avenue of your life.

The spectacular event was filled with some of the most giving and loving people I’ve ever met. First, I’ve got to mention sweet Sherry. Now, just because I say she’s sweet, let’s not mistake that sweetness for weakness. She may be a petite thing, but she’s a “doer” and a total “spitfire” on Brendon’s amazing team. Sherry is a creative soul with a heart of gold and such a blessing to everyone she meets. She was the most hospitable and welcoming “light” who Shea and I can’t thank enough. Being a part of “Bring the Joy” was the most humbling experience that we’ll hold in our hearts forever. We so appreciated her enthusiasm and kind heart!

Next would be Anthony. Anthony Trucks, Y’all. He’s a former NFL linebacker and American Ninja Warrior, and he’s currently a life coach, author, and motivational speaker. We saw first hand his enthusiasm on the stage, and his ability to get the message across was undeniable. Creative, funny, most energetic, and not to mention, he’s just a good lookin’ young man. Anthony’s infectious, energetic personality is one you wouldn’t want to miss.  His “How to Trust Your Hustle” program is soaring to incredible heights touching the lives of many! I was honored to meet him in the lobby before the event even started…what a servant’s heart.

Next, is a man you might not have heard of, because he’s not known on social media for his thousands of followers, but he’s made his mark elsewhere. He’s Ethan Willis. He’s a humble man of faith with a huge heart who has tremendous love and respect for his wife alongside their eight children. Ethan is not only an author and speaker, but the Co-founder and Managing Member of growth.com and Co-founder and investor in Shine Solar. He also serves as a Founder and Managing Partner of RoundSquare Ventures, a member on the board of the Young President’s Organization and the President’s Advisory Council for Brigham Young University. He brings to the table a breath of fresh air in authenticity that we rarely see in our lifetime. His stage presence was as real as it could be. His teachings are to the point, and he has an uncanny gift to story-tell. 

As Shea and I headed back into the hotel after our lunch break, we had the pleasure of running into Ethan. As we were short on words, we simply could not fully express our gratitude of appreciation. Hopefully, he could feel the love by our hugs. The same hugs that were so openly given to us throughout our whole experience at Brendon Burchard’s High Performance Academy.

A hug. Such a simple sign. Sometimes we take for granted the very thing that Connects the Love from one person to another.

A Big Shout Out to Brendon Burchard for his undying dedication to people all over the world AND his hard-working team!!! To All the Huggers and Givers at HPA 2019, the love is mutual. And so it’s time…time to “GO OWN YOUR DREAMS!”

It’s Never Too Late To Live Your Best Life!