Shows
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 21 - Two Storytellers, One Faith A father–son story that God is still writingWhat happens when a life spent translating Scripture across cultures meets a heart shaped by unwavering faith and simple devotion? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Arthur Lightbody—a retired missionary, storyteller, actor and lifelong servant whose journey spans continents, decades of Bible translation, and a deep love for people. Arthur sees God's hand woven through every season of his life. But the conversation doesn't stop there. Arthur is joined by his son Titus, whose faith is as profound as it is pure. Titus lives with intellectual and developmental disabilities, yet his life is...
2026-02-0127 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 20 - Brothers Beyond LimitationsKick off 2026 with a story that will touch your heart and set the tone for a year filled with purpose, hope, and fresh perspective. I am honored to open the year with "Brothers Beyond Limitations" — a powerful conversation with Vann and Scott Dowless. Scott, a Special Olympics star, jewelry maker, singer, and true joy-spreader… And Vann, a devoted brother, veteran, leader, and advocate whose love and commitment shine through every word. Together, they share a story of faith, family, perseverance, and what it really means to live beyond limitations.
2026-01-0133 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 19 - A Seat at the Table – Where Everyone BelongsToday's episode is a beautiful celebration of faith, family, and full inclusion. I'm thrilled to welcome Michael & Deena McDowell of Joyful Table Church — two leaders who show what it truly means to build a community where every ability and every story matters. Pull up a chair… there's room for all of us at the table.
2025-12-0142 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 18 - Living the SpectrumAutism isn't just a diagnosis — it's a daily journey. In this episode, Kayla opens up about what it means to live on the spectrum: the hardships, the victories, and the fight for dignity and understanding. Kayla doesn't hold back as she shares the reality of long waiting lists, scarce resources, and the emotional toll of autism — not just for herself, but for countless others she's walked alongside. Her voice is raw, honest, and full of resilience.
2025-11-0143 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 17 - Beyond the Diagnosis; Coaching for real lifeSupporting adults on the autism spectrum goes far beyond theory — it's about showing up in the moments that shape daily life. In this episode, we sit down with Holly Burdick, a certified autism coach, to pull back the curtain on what meaningful support truly looks like. Together, we unpack common myths and misunderstandings, explore the quiet traumas that too often go unseen, and discover the powerful ways Holly helps her clients find not only their voice, but their value. Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, or simply someone who wants to understand autism through a mo...
2025-10-0152 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 16 - A Mother's StandWhat happens when a mother refuses to let adversity define her family? In this moving episode of Soaring Through Adversity, Marla O'Neill shares her journey as a mother, advocate, and "Momager" who has walked through autism, addiction, and heartbreaking loss — and turned those experiences into a mission of hope. Listeners will hear how Marla's fierce love helped her son find his voice, earn a degree, and launch a career in journalism, while also honoring the memory of her son Jake and supporting her son Joshua's ongoing recovery. This conversation is raw, real, and deeply inspiring — for parents, care...
2025-09-3054 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 15 - Gold Medals and Bigger GoalsHe's got wrestling hot takes, football opinions that'll make you laugh (or argue), and a heart so big it fills the room. Jared is 40 years young, a Special Olympics legend, and a firecracker of joy, resilience, and unforgettable This episode is packed with laughs, legacy, and life lessons from someone who's been breaking barriers and making people smile for over three decades. Trust us—you don't want to miss Jared.
2025-09-3015 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 14 - See Me as Special, Not Special NeedsWhat do gold medals, scary movies, and early mornings on an egg farm have in common? Meet the incredible woman behind it all in our latest episode of Soaring Through Adversity. This week, we sit down with Mary, a tech-savvy, fiercely determined dreamer who's not only mastered bowling and bocce ball—but is also chasing her dreams of college, independence, and a driver's license. She doesn't see herself as someone with a disability—and she doesn't want you to either. She sees herself as a kind, capable, and normal person… because that's exactly who she is...
2025-07-0117 min
Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 13 - Where Everyone BelongsIn this episode of Soaring Through Adversity, host Renee Breazeale welcomes Amanda Kotter and Nicole Thompson, two passionate leaders and coaches within the Special Olympics community. Together, Amanda and Nicole share inspiring stories about the power of inclusive sports to foster confidence, connection, and community for individuals with disabilities. They discuss the origins and global impact of Special Olympics, highlight the challenges and triumphs of athletes, and emphasize the importance of advocacy and volunteerism in creating a world where everyone belongs. This episode is a celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the unstoppable spirit that drives the Special...
2025-06-0229 minSoaring Through AdversityWhere Everyone BelongsIn this episode of Soaring Through Adversity, host Renee Breazeale welcomes Amanda Kotter and Nicole Thompson, two passionate leaders and coaches within the Special Olympics community. Together, Amanda and Nicole share inspiring stories about the power of inclusive sports to foster confidence, connection, and community for individuals with disabilities. They discuss the origins and global impact of Special Olympics, highlight the challenges and triumphs of athletes, and emphasize the importance of advocacy and volunteerism in creating a world where everyone belongs. This episode is a celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the unstoppable spirit that drives the Special...
2025-06-0229 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 12 - Embracing God's PlanSome stories stay with you forever, and Pastor Scott Garwood's is one of them. Born two months premature and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Scott could have let life's challenges define him. Instead, he found a deeper purpose through faith, hope, and an unshakable spirit. Hear how a shy young man became a voice of love and encouragement for so many. His journey will touch your heart, lift your spirit, and remind you that God writes the most beautiful stories through our struggles.
2025-05-0122 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 11 - One Choice, One MomentA New Year's Eve call changes everything. Join Renee Breazeale as she speaks with Karla and Scott Dougan about a life-altering accident. Hear their raw, emotional story of unexpected challenges, and the long road to recovery. 'One Choice, One Moment' explores resilience and the strength in the face of unimaginable adversity, and shows that anyone can become disabled at the blink of an eye.
2025-04-011h 01Soaring Through AdversityEpisode 10 - Seeing The UnseenIn this episode of Soaring Through Adversity, host Renee Breazeale welcomes Eva and Kevin Potts, co-founders of the Mary Carmel's Light Foundation, to discuss a condition that often goes unrecognized—Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Eva and Kevin share their personal journey, inspired by their late mother, Mary Carmel, who lived with the condition and was misdiagnosed with dementia. Their experience navigating the medical system and the lack of resources led them to create a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals affected by Charles Bonnet Syndrome and their families. Together, they break down what Charles Bonnet Syndrome is, ho...
2025-03-0348 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 9 - Life ReimaginedIn this heartfelt and empowering episode of Soaring Through Adversity, "Life Reimagined", host Renee Breazeale is joined by her friend Christa Tyson for an unforgettable conversation. Christa, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at just 44, opens up about the challenges and lessons of navigating life with a disability. Together, Renee and Christa share personal stories, including Renee's journey of discovering a life-altering brain tumor. This episode dives into how they've both turned life's unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth, resilience, and even a bit of humor.
2025-01-0151 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 8 - Unstoppable VoiceThis episode of Soaring Through Adversity, titled "Unstoppable Voice," features Susan and Lexi Haas, a mother-daughter duo dedicated to disability advocacy and education. Together, they co-authored The Year of the Buttered Cat, which shares Lexi's extraordinary journey. Susan and Lexi share their story of resilience, advocacy, and triumph, inspiring listeners to embrace the potential within every challenge.
2024-12-0133 min
The Servant Leadership PodcastThe Nuts and Bolts of LeadershipRenee Breazeale is an author, speaker, leader and founder of the Victory Advantage Foundation. She discovered her leadership purpose though as the CEO of Victory Bolt & Specialty Company. As a business owner and leader, Renee had to learn how to build relationships and establish her own position as a women owned business in a predominately male run industry. Today, Renee and her husband Ray run the Victory Advantage Foundation, focusing on education and empowerment for those with disabilities. You can connect with Renee here:LinkedInThe Victory AdvantageVictory in Time
2024-11-0532 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 7 - Stronger Than YesterdayToday's guest is Madison, a 36-year-old professional with roots in West Palm Beach, Florida, who grew up in Union County, North Carolina. Madison's story is one of determination, from balancing single parenthood, a full-time job, and her studies to earn a communication degree from East Carolina University, to her successful corporate career as a business analyst at Siemens, where she's worked since 2014. On New Year's Day in 2017, Madison's journey took a sharp turn when she suffered a massive stroke that initially left her unable to walk and permanently affected her left arm and leg. With six weeks...
2024-11-0117 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 6 - Empowering IndependenceIn this short episode of the Soaring Through Adversity podcast, host Renee Breazeale delivers a message about empowering people with disabilities. As the previous CEO of Victory Bolt & Specialty and co-founder of The Victory Advantage, Renee highlights their mission to make independent living more accessible. Through financial assistance for housing, education, and employment, The Victory Advantage is breaking down barriers to independence.
2024-10-1104 min
BrandBuilders373: Renee Breazeale, Victory in Time
Welcome to another episode of the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast! Today, we are delighted to have Renee Breazeale, the founder of Victory in Time here with us. Renee has dedicated her career to providing innovative solutions and strategies that empower her clients. If you’re not following her on LinnkedIn, do it – and listen in now to find out what’s in it for you.
Renee, welcome to the BrandBuilders Podcast!
2024-10-1043 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 5 - Faith, Flight, and ResilienceThis episode, titled "Faith, Flight, and Resilience," features Chuck Hoyle. Born in 1952 in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Chuck grew up in a devout Christian home. His love for sports and aviation led him to the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he strayed from his faith but later found his way back. After a tragic plane crash left him paralyzed, Chuck's resilience only grew. He became a foster parent to ten children, participated in adaptive sports, and got involved with a nonprofit offering water skiing opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Chuck now lives with his youngest son...
2024-10-0139 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 4 - Forklift and FlyIn today's episode, titled "Forklift and Fly," the spotlight is on two remarkable guests: David Casper and Nate Clewell. David, a Union County native and CEO of Union Diversified Industries, has been a leader in the IDD, MH, and SU fields. He's a trailblazer in nonprofit innovation, an ordained minister, and a dedicated community member. Joining him is Nate Clewell, a 33-year-old forklift operator at UDI. Despite challenges like scoliosis and ADD, Nate has thrived in his role and enjoys fishing, family time, and cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles. Both guests share inspiring stories of perseverance and...
2024-09-0150 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 3 - From Silence to a Voice of DistinctionMichael Wayne O'Neill is a 2023 graduate of Wingate University with a bachelor's degree in sports communications, and he is working toward his dream of becoming a play-by-play announcer. Currently, Michael Wayne is a general assignment reporter at the Enquirer Journal in Monroe, North Carolina, where he has written over 1,000 articles. Despite experiencing delays in speech and communication as a child, Michael Wayne found his voice at the age of 8 and developed a passion for broadcasting during high school after being inspired by sports commentator Al Michaels. His journey began with announcing middle school football games, and his dedication to...
2024-08-0133 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 2 - Empowerment Through GraceGrace Trumpower, diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 18 months old, overcame multiple barriers to become a disability rights advocate. Despite battling an autoimmune condition in her teens, she pursued a GED and received accolades for advancing inclusive education. Grace's advocacy has led to victories promoting equal educational opportunities for people with disabilities, inspiring others with her resilience and determination.
2024-07-0133 minSoaring Through AdversityEpisode 1 - Life UnflippedAs the owner of Dawn Rock Drilling and Blasting, Daniel McGuirt was living every young boy's dream of being paid to blow things up. However, Daniel's life was forever changed in 2021 when he was paralyzed from a Jeep accident on his family farm. This wasn't the first time in Daniel's life that he had faced adversity however. 30 years prior, he broke his neck, and he also survived a cancer diagnosis in his thirties. Daniel McGuirt is no stranger to overcoming obstacles, as he's proven his whole life and ever more so today. Daniel McGuirt joins h...
2024-06-0135 minSoaring Through AdversityTrailerThe Soaring Through Adversity podcast delves into the lives, experiences, and perspectives of individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities, as well as their caregivers. Through candid conversations and insightful interviews, your host Renee Breazeale provides a platform to these often unheard voices to shine, while empowering our listeners to take flight with awareness, empathy and understanding the importance of independent living solutions, fostering inclusivity and respect, and truly embodying the "Eagle Way".
2024-05-2001 min
Business LegendsEp. 98 - Soaring to Success - Renee BreazealeWelcome to the Business Legends Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Renee Breazeale, the influential Author, Speaker, and Facilitator for Victory Circles, and the Co-Founder and CEO of Victory Advantage Foundation.
In this episode, we'll discuss her unique approach to leadership, which intertwines elements of diversity, equity, inclusion, and a service-first mindset, has established her as a trailblazer in leadership and team dynamics.
Additionally, we'll discuss her contributions to the field through her newly released book "Soaring Through Adversity," which showcases her insights into overcoming challenges and leading with faith and determination.
Interested...
2024-04-1136 min
Business LegendsEp. 98 - Soaring to Success - Renee BreazealeWelcome to the Business Legends Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Renee Breazeale, the influential Author, Speaker, and Facilitator for Victory Circles, and the Co-Founder and CEO of Victory Advantage Foundation. In this episode, we'll discuss her unique approach to leadership, which intertwines elements of diversity, equity, inclusion, and a service-first mindset, has established her as a trailblazer in leadership and team dynamics. Additionally, we'll discuss her contributions to the field through her newly released book "Soaring Through Adversity," which showcases her insights into overcoming challenges and leading with faith and determination. Interested in learning more about Renee and her...
2024-04-1136 min2024-03-2100 min
Nuts and Bolts of LeadershipVictorious Leadership with Renee Breazeale Welcome to another episode of The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership podcast! Join Billy and Hali as they welcome Renee Breazeale, founder of Victory Bolt and Victory In Time and the inspiring author of "Soaring Through Adversity". Get ready to dive into the power of having a destination in mind, even when the path isn't crystal clear. Renee shares her journey, emphasizing how her faith has been a guiding light on her path to becoming a victorious leader, offering insights that resonate with anyone seeking inspiration. Discover the importance of planning for the future and p...
2024-02-0751 min
Ms. FitOne Lifestyles with Elizabeth ColenEP 159: Servant CEORenee J. Breazeale is scattering knowledge all throughout this podcast! She is talking to us about her latest venture, Victory in Time, a mastermind group for business owners, executives, and emerging leaders. In this group, she is helping others become visible and have a voice. We go deep into her personal story, how she leads by faith, and how her book, Soaring Through Adversity, was developed. Renee shares her phrase Faith First, what it means to her, and how she overcame adversity in order to soar. Of course, she talks to us about her self-care too. Connect with Renee on...
2023-12-0733 min
Anything But Typical105: Renee Breazeale Dominating A Male Dominated IndustryIt’s easy to look at Renee & think that the comforts of Easy Street & a golden parachute allowed her to build the 13th largest woman-owned business in the Charlotte area & the only woman-owned industrial business in Union County (not to mention authoring a book & forming a foundation), but nothing could be further from the truth.
A small-town girl introduced first to banking & then manufacturing sales, Renee created a name for herself in a male-dominated industry by working hard & maintaining her integrity. Where others took shortcuts (morally & otherwise), she sought higher ground.
Amidst incredible challenges, including do...
2023-12-061h 01
Practice to Profit: Simple Business Growth Strategies for Sustainable SuccessA Story about Overcoming AdversityMost people never go through the things Renee has and yet she was able to overcome these obstacles and is here to share her story about overcoming adversity. She passes on her knowledge and inspiration through her Victory in Time and new book.Renee Breazeale (rhymes with Chick-fil-A) was the 30-year owner of a company called Victory Bolt & Specialty, which was in a fastener business in industrial sales, which was a male-dominated industry. She imported, distributed, and did light manufacturing to make nuts and bolts. She currently runs a company called Vic...
2023-11-2723 min
American Made Stories with Mackenzie Moser#4- Soaring Through Adversity- Servant CEO Leading the Eagle Way- Guest: Renee BreazealeServant CEO Leading The Eagle Way with Guest: Renee Breazeale If being a woman determined to build a multimillion-dollar business in a male-dominated industry wasn’t enough of a challenge, Renee found her faith being put to the ultimate test on many fronts. From living out of a suitcase, domestic violence, and chauvinism to a broken back and a brain tumor while being a single mom of two daughters, each adversity helped her realize lessons to soar in any given moment that life threw at her. In 2019, she sold her company for millions as one of t...
2023-04-201h 04