Listen to Previous Episodes of The Mary Gardner Show
Celebrities. Culture. Communication. Legacy. Purpose. Passion.
Catch up on recent conversations and hear the kind of inspiring, insightful, and entertaining content listeners love on The Mary Gardner Show.
Episode 1:
Civility and Peace with Lamar Hunt Jr.
On the debut episode of The Mary Gardner Show, Mary sits down with Kansas City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt Jr. for a rare, behind-the-scenes conversation on faith-driven leadership, navigating disagreement, and restoring civility in a noisy world. Thoughtful, hopeful, and deeply human, this episode blends leadership, family, and real-world wisdom—setting a powerful tone for the show’s very first chapter.
Episode 2:
Persuasion, Debate, and Forming Future Leaders with Michael Knowles
In Episode 2 of The Mary Gardner Show, Mary sits down with Michael Knowles—bestselling author, Daily Wire host, and sharp cultural commentator—for a fast-moving conversation on persuasion, debate, and communicating truth in an emotionally charged world. With humor, faith, and fearless intellect, Michael shares how to engage disagreement well, live convictions publicly, and form the next generation to think clearly and lead wisely.
Episode 3:
The Best Sales Skills with Joe Pici
Sales isn’t just business—it’s life, and on The Mary Gardner Show Joe Pici reveals why service-driven sales fuel confidence, leadership, and income. With decades of experience, he shows why even great ideas fail without ethical, clear selling.
Take the next step: Join Joe’s FREE SalesEdge Webinar (text SalesEdge to 59925), or connect directly with A Cup of Joe at (407) 947-2590 or piciandpici.com (mention Mary for $500 off).
Episode 4:
Courage, Boldness, and Leadership with Jay Collins
Jay Collins, former Lieutenant Governor and current gubernatorial candidate, joined the show following his announcement to run for governor. A former Special Operations leader, Jay brings intensity, discipline, and deep strategic thinking to public service. Our conversation explored leadership, service, and what it takes to step boldly into the public arena with conviction and vision.
Episode 5:
Faith and Stewardship with Alicia Kaufman
In this episode, Mary sits down with Alicia Kaufman, a serial entrepreneur with expertise spanning mining, cryptocurrency, Airbnb investing, and alternative income streams. Having built and diversified income throughout her career, Alicia shared practical wisdom, real-world experience, and insights on creating financial resilience and opportunity outside traditional career paths.
Episode 6:
A Crucial Conversation about Children’s Safety with Jan Edwards
Joining Mary in this episode is Jan Edwards, leader of a national organization dedicated to the prevention and education of sex trafficking. This powerful and important conversation focuses on protecting children and vulnerable populations, recognizing warning signs, and equipping families and communities with knowledge to combat this global crisis.
Episode 7:
The Making of a Leader with Marnie Forasteri Zettler
In this encouraging episode, Mary sits down with Marnie Forasteri Zettler, a highly successful entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, author, and leader in education innovation. She is at the forefront of preparing young people for entrepreneurship, leadership, and real-world success. Our discussion centered on reimagining education and empowering the next generation with skills, confidence, and vision.
Episode 8:
Faith, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation with Tim Taylor
In this inspiring episode, Mary sits down with Tim Taylor—entrepreneur, sales and marketing expert and former pastor who worked closely with Rick Warren—to explore how faith, business, and innovation intersect. Together, they discuss turning expertise into impactful courses, how dreams move from vision to reality, and what it takes to build meaningful work rooted in purpose.
Episode 9:
The Gratitude Exchange with Thane David Martin
If you’re ready for a boost of hope and joy, then you’ll love this episode with Thane David Martin, creator of The Equation of Life and Abundant Happiness, as they explore healing through gratitude and the practice of intentional joy. Together they unpack how gratitude can transform childhood wounds and emotional pain—offering a path to real peace, healing, and a joy you can feel in both body and soul.
Episode 10:
Finding the Light with Judy Henderson
In this deeply moving and unforgettable episode, Mary sits down with Judy Henderson, whose life was forever changed after being unjustly imprisoned for 36 years. Rather than emerging with bitterness, Judy chose humility, gratitude, and relentless faith—transforming unimaginable loss into a story of redemption and light. Drawing from her book When the Light Finds Us, Judy shares how hope can survive the darkest circumstances and how choosing grace can rewrite even the most painful chapters.
Episode 11:
The Power of Belief with Coach Jim Johnson
In this inspiring episode, Mary sits down with coach Jim Johnson to explore how miracles are built—not the kind that fall from the sky, but the kind created when someone believes in you before you believe in yourself. Together, they unpack the transformational power of coaching and the invitation each of us has to become that miracle in someone else’s life. Through stories, insight, and lived wisdom, Jim reveals how belief, consistency, and presence can quietly change the trajectory of a human life.
Episode 12:
Dreams Don’t Age: Fear, Reinvention, and Record-Breaking at 67
In this energizing episode, Mary sits down with her dear friend Deborah Gardner to talk about fear, reinvention, and building a life that keeps expanding instead of shrinking. Deborah shares why fear isn’t a stop sign but a starting block, how she’s breaking records instead of retiring, and what it takes to compete, negotiate, and own your lane at every stage of life. If fear has been louder than faith, this conversation will remind you it’s never too late to gear up, step forward, and pursue the dream that’s still calling your name.
Episode 13:
The Power of One: How Real Change Happens
Join Mary as she sits down with national change leader Andrae Bailey, founder of Breaking Through and president of Change Everything. Andrae has led groundbreaking initiatives addressing homelessness, opioid overdose, poverty, and the growing youth mental health crisis. In this powerful conversation, Mary and Andrae explore how one individual can spark transformational change and why the problems we see may actually be our calling.
Episode 14:
Unlocking Brilliance: From Being Fired by Disney to Empowering Leaders Globally
Join Mary as she interviews Simon T. Bailey, a renowned motivational speaker and author, who shared his journey from being fired from Disney to becoming a global leadership development expert. He emphasized the importance of resilience, confidence, and creativity in achieving brilliance. Simon highlighted the need for leaders to value people, communicate effectively, and inspire hope. Simon also stressed the significance of serving others and maintaining a positive attitude. His story underscored the power of overcoming setbacks and the importance of humility and purpose in leadership.
Episode 15:
Solving the Youth Mental Health Crisis with Dwight Bain
In this important and timely episode, Mary sits down with nationally recognized mental health expert Dwight Bain to address the growing youth mental health crisis. Together, they explore what’s really driving the rise in anxiety, depression, and directionlessness among teens—especially young boys—and why meaning and purpose are essential to restoring hope. Dwight offers practical insight for parents, leaders, and young people navigating uncertainty, sharing how meaningful work, strong identity, and intentional support can help the next generation move from confusion to confidence. This is a powerful conversation about clarity, resilience, and creating a path forward filled with hope.
Episode 16:
Overcoming Obstacles & Achieving Your Dreams with Ruben Gonzalez
In this high-impact episode, Mary sits down with four-time Olympian Ruben Gonzalez to explore what it truly takes to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams. From starting his Olympic journey at 21 with no experience to competing in four Winter Games—and now training in his 60s for 2030—Ruben shares powerful lessons on visualization, resilience, mental toughness, and building the right environment to win. This conversation is a masterclass in perseverance, proving it’s never too late to chase a bold goal.
Episode 17:
A Journey of Purpose and Impact with Derreck Kayongo
In this inspiring episode, Mary sits down with Dr. Derreck Kayongo—humanitarian, innovator, and global changemaker—to explore what it means to live a life of purpose and impact. From his journey from Uganda to the U.S. to founding the Global Soap Project and leading initiatives that protect public health, Dr. Kayongo shares how identifying real problems and taking bold action can create lasting change. This conversation is a powerful reminder that each of us has the ability and responsibility to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Episode 18:
Against All Odds: From Cancer to Everest – with Sean Swarner
In this extraordinary episode, Mary sits down with Sean Swarner, a cancer survivor, Everest climber, and inspirational speaker, to explore what’s possible when resilience meets purpose. After facing a near-zero chance of survival and losing a lung, Sean went on to summit Mount Everest and complete the Seven Summits, proving that mindset and meaning can defy even the greatest odds. This powerful conversation will challenge you to set bold goals, push past limitations, and live a life driven by purpose, not circumstance.
Episode 19:
Stress Management, Focus, and Leadership with Dr. John Havlik
In this high-impact episode, Mary sits down with Dr. John Havlik—retired Navy SEAL and leadership expert—to explore stress management, focus, and what it takes to lead under pressure. Drawing from elite military and athletic performance, Dr. Havlik shares how discipline, routine, and mental toughness create clarity in high-stakes environments. This conversation is a masterclass in staying grounded, leading with humility, and performing at your best when it matters most.
Episode 20:
Life Transitions and Financial Planning with Cindy Price
In this insightful episode, Mary sits down with certified financial planner Cindy Price, founder of Ask the Money Lady, to talk about navigating life’s transitions with confidence and clarity. From practical financial strategies for every stage of life to preparing for the unexpected, Cindy shares wisdom shaped by both professional expertise and personal loss. This conversation is a powerful guide to building security, strengthening your support system, and aligning your finances with what’s most important.
Episode 21:
Know Your Purpose, Change Your Life with Kevin W. McCarthy
In this thought-provoking episode, Mary sits down with Kevin W. McCarthy, leadership expert, author, and creator of OnPurpose.me, to explore the life-changing power of discovering your purpose. Together, they discuss why so many people feel stuck or unfulfilled, how clarity creates confidence and direction, and the simple yet powerful steps anyone can take to begin living with greater meaning. Whether you’re navigating a transition, seeking deeper fulfillment, or searching for your next chapter, this conversation will inspire you to live with intention and purpose every day.
Episode 22:
Walking the Leadership Tightrope with Chris Ice
In this insightful episode, Mary sits down with Christopher P. Ice—educator, author, and leadership expert—to explore the challenges of leading with wisdom, faith, and purpose in a rapidly changing world. Drawing from his book Walking the Leadership Tightrope, Christopher shares practical lessons on balancing career and family, navigating uncertainty, and staying grounded when the demands of leadership feel overwhelming. This thoughtful conversation offers encouragement and guidance for anyone striving to lead well at home, at work, and in their community.
Episode 23:
Building a Life That Matters with Patrick Chapin
In this inspiring episode, Mary sits down with Patrick Chapin, CEO of Camp Boggy Creek, to discuss leadership, legacy, and the profound impact of serving others. Together, they explore what it means to lead with purpose, create meaningful experiences for children and families facing serious illnesses, and build a legacy that extends far beyond personal success. This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that the greatest leaders are often those who dedicate their lives to helping others thrive.
Episode 24:
From Calling to Career with Rachel Griffith
In this inspiring episode, Mary sits down with Rachel Griffith, Senior Vice President at King Operating, to explore the power of reinvention and the courage to embrace unexpected opportunities. Rachel shares her remarkable journey from mission work to leadership in the oil and gas industry, offering insights on adaptability, resilience, and staying open to where life’s path may lead. This conversation is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t limit your future—and that some of life’s greatest opportunities emerge when you’re willing to step into the unknown.
Episode 25:
Building Better Communities with Chris Messina
In this engaging episode, Mary sits down with Chris Messina—Harvard MBA, tech entrepreneur, and community leader—to discuss what it takes to build thriving communities in a rapidly changing world. Together, they explore the intersection of leadership, innovation, economic growth, and public service, examining how transparent leadership and forward-thinking solutions can create opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve lives. This conversation offers a thoughtful look at the role each of us can play in shaping a stronger future for the next generation.
The Mary Gardner Show
Broadcast Saturdays at 1pm EST on 94.9 FM and AM 950
Produced in partnership with Salem Media Group Orlando