Second Chances Podcast Banner Christy Belz

Conversations about second chances, life-changing choices and perspectives that embrace the messy details of life to illuminate our most authentic, unique, and beautiful soul.

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If you know of someone who would be an inspiring guest for Second Chances, please contact Christy. She is always interested in listening to women share stories of resilience and transformation. Oh God of Second Chances, we belong to quite the sisterhood!

Featured Conversations

Second Chances with Donna Lynne

Public health leader Dr. Donna Lynne, CEO of Denver Health, joins Christy Belz to discuss her remarkable career spanning healthcare operations and public service. Explored are Lynne’s pivotal moments, the challenges facing the U.S. healthcare system, and her advocacy for universal health care. The conversation offers insights into Lynne’s leadership style, her thoughts on the intersection of politics and healthcare, and her optimism about the industry’s future.

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Second Chances with Janine Davidson

Christy Belz speaks with Dr. Janine Davidson, President of Metropolitan State University of Denver, as they explore the power of second chances and pivotal life decisions. Davidson shares transformative experiences, from overcoming challenges in Air Force pilot training to navigating personal and professional shifts, including her transition from Undersecretary of the Navy to leading MSU Denver.

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Second Chances with Christine Marquez Hudson

The Power of Authentic Leadership and Balancing High-Pressure Careers with Christine Marques Hudson
In this episode of “Second Chances with Christy Belz,” Christy sits down with Christine Marques Hudson, Vice President of University Advancement at MSU Denver. Christine shares her journey through various leadership roles, including her transformative experience at Mi Casa Resource Center. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced at the Denver Foundation and the lessons learned about authenticity and self-worth. Discover how Christine achieved a harmonious work-life balance and why MSU Denver stands as a beacon of excellence and access in education.

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Second Chances with Jen Lester

This week on Second Chances, I sit down with my friend and longtime collaborator, Jen Lester, co-founder and CEO of Philosophy Communications. Jen built a 25-year PR/marketing agency on one radical question corporate America rarely asks women: “What kind of job do you want?” From hiring Emmy-level talent on flexible terms to rethinking partnership exits, she shows how brave pivots and clear values can create great work and great lives.

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Second Chances with Christine Benero

Christy Belz speaks with Christine Benero, the President and CEO of Mile High United Way, a historic organization dedicated to improving education, health, and financial stability in Colorado communities. Christine is noted for being the first woman to ever hold this significant role in the organization’s 135-year history.

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Second Chances with Better Together Productions

How Two Women’s Second Chance Transformed into Emmy-Winning Synergy with Lara Smedley and Rachel Farha
Christy Belz speaks with Lara Smedley and Rachel Farha, co-founders of Better Together Productions, about their inspiring journeys of leaving successful careers, facing challenges like imposter syndrome, and building a thriving production company.

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Second Chances with Meghann Conter

Meghann Conter, founder and CEO of The Dames, a supportive network for high-achieving women entrepreneurs. Meghann shares her journey from burnout in corporate America to starting her own business, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and self-love.

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Second Chances with Maureen McDonald

Maureen McDonald, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in non-profit organizations, primarily focusing on education, healthcare, and the arts. Maureen emphasizes the importance of community health and her role with HCA Healthcare’s initiative with the American Heart Association.

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Second Chances with Helene Lerner

Helene Lerner, an Emmy award-winning executive producer, bestselling author, TV host and a trailblazer in women’s empowerment. Helene shares moments in her career journey, emphasizing mindset shifts and the importance of authenticity.

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From Breakdown to Breakthrough: Embracing the Power of Audacious Love with Simone Ross

On this episode host Christy Belz welcomes Simone Ross, a dynamic leader and CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce. Simone embarked on a transformative journey from navigating panic attacks and a challenging marriage to embracing her power through self-discovery and second chances to pursue a mission of audacious love and empowerment.

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Second Chances with Pam Gagel

Pam Gagel, the Trailblazer of Title IX on Embracing Transitions and Redefining Success
Join host Christy Belz in a compelling conversation with Pam Gagel, a retired attorney and co-founder of the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System. Hear stories from her pivotal role in a landmark Title IX case that reshaped athletic opportunities for women.

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Reclaiming Self Care: Your Second Chance to Belong to Yourself

Following major back surgery, Christy reflects on releasing identities and roles that no longer serve her, emphasizing that self-care is not selfish.

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Second Chances with Dr. Rebecca Chopp

Join Christy Belz as she welcomes Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver, for an inspiring conversation on embracing second chances and living with Alzheimer’s

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Second Chances with Michelle Medrano

Michelle shares pivotal moments of her life, from her teenage discoveries of spirituality to her transformative experience at Mile Hi Church.

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Second Chances with Richard Rodgers

Join Christy Belz for a soul-stirring conversation with Reverend Richard Rogers, a distinguished spiritual teacher and coach with over 30 years of experience and senior minister at Unity of Naples.

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Second Chances with Rev. Christina Jones

Christy Belz welcomes Rev. Christina Jones, a minister and founder of the Divine Feminine Evolution and serves as the spiritual director of the Althea Center for Engaged Spirituality in Denver, Colorado.

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Second Chances with David Goldberg

Christy talks with Dr. Reverend David Goldberg, a spiritual counselor, life coach, and ordained minister. They explore David’s career transitions from corporate public relations to his current role as a spiritual leader, emphasizing pivotal life moments shaped by his journey of second chances.

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Second Chances with Jean East

Dr. Jean East, a retired professor from the University of Denver, brings over 27 years of experience in social work, teaching, and leadership. She co-founded Project WISE, empowering women, and currently supports refugees through her work with Angelica Village.

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Second Changes with Dana Crawford

Dana Crawford is a renowned preservationist, best known for her transformative work in Denver, including the redevelopment of Larimer Square in the 1960s, Denver Union Station, and the Oxford Hotel. Her vision and leadership have made her a key figure in historic preservation, not just in Denver but across the country.

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Second Changes with Joyce Foster

Joyce Foster recounts her journey from Benton Harbor to becoming the first Jewish woman on Denver’s city council. She also reflects on her vibrant life, her dedicated political career, and the challenges of aging, emphasizing the importance of love, service and activism.

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Second Chances with Judy Moore

Judy Moore discusses the transformative power of Second Chances and the importance of pursuing one’s passions at any age. Judy is an 83-year old marathon-running psychologist who has been a guiding light for many women, including Christy.

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Second Chances with Cathy Hawk

Cathy Hawk discusses Clarity International which offers extensive knowledge in energy work and the Get Clarity operating system. She is a well-known Clarity coach who provides priceless advice for personal development and fulfillment in addition to assisting people in discovering what really excites them.

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Second Chances with Chrissie Gillies

Chrissie Gillies reflects on her remarkable journey through personal and professional transformations, and discuss the wisdom of aging, the art of resilience, and the beauty of reinvention

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Second Chances with Karon Harris-Hicks

Karon Harris-Hicks talks about her climb to become the first female chairman of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City, celebrating the power of mentorship, resilience, and breaking barriers in the corporate world.

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Second Chances with Susan Kenney

Susan Kenney discusses women’s empowerment, social justice and the power of community and mentorship.

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Second Chances with Phoenix Jackson

Phoenix Jackson explores the importance of invoking growth in oneself, overcoming compassion fatigue, and making the courageous decision to step into one’s authenticity.

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Second Chances with Gretchen Gagel

Gretchen Gagel shares her journey of overcoming insecurities and intimidation, making life-changing choices, and finding her passion for empowering women.

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Second Chances with Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas

Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas, an expert in suicide awareness and prevention.

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Second Chances with Laura Thomas

Laura Thomas shares her personal story of transformation through grief, starting with the unexpected loss of her brother to suicide.

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Second Chances with Nikki Dority

Dr. Nikki Dority, a successful entrepreneur, physical therapist, biomechanist, movement specialist, and mother who shares her journey of living with bipolar disorder.

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Second Chances with Pat Jacques

Pat Jacques skillfully blends her proficiency in athletics and life coaching to create a well-rounded educational environment uniquely customized for women.

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Second Chances with Dafna Michaelson Jenet

Dafna Michaelson Jenet is a passionate champion of change who defies expectations by pursuing a political career.

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Second Chances with Betsy Wiersma

Betsy Wiersma is a social entrepreneur, a creative genius and a gift to so many.

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