We’re starting 2026 with a powerful and deeply human conversation.

In the first episode of 2026, I’m joined by Barbara Legat-Kasel - Mental Fitness & Resilience Coach, author, speaker, and founder of Aspire Academy.

Barbara brings a rare blend of real-world corporate experience and profound inner work. She spent over 30 years in a fast paced, international corporate career in fashion buying, operating at the top of her field while navigating intense performance demands, responsibility, and expectations. In this episode, we explore how hustle culture quietly impacts people - especially women - and why “pushing through” is no longer the answer.

Barbara also shares her deeply personal and tragic story of losing her son, and how life was irrevocably changed in the aftermath. With honesty, compassion, and strength, she speaks about what it truly means to navigate grief, rebuild identity, and find a way to live - not just function - after loss.

Together, we discuss:

• What high performance really means - and how we need to redefine it
• How hustle culture affects our health, identity, and nervous system
• Why nervous-system regulation is essential for sustainable success
• How to support yourself through grief, uncertainty, and life transitions
• The concept of Inner Fitness First - working hard without burning out
• Building trust with yourself as the foundation of confidence and leadership

We also dive into Barbara’s incredible book, Held by the Unseen, which carries a powerful message about fear, trust, identity, and how we are held - even in life’s darkest moments.

This episode is for anyone who wants to succeed, lead, and grow - without sacrificing their wellbeing, humanity, or inner peace.

🔗 Connect with Barbara

• Instagram: @barbara.mentalfitness
• Email: AspireAcademy@web.de
  
  
• LinkedIn: Barbara Legat-Kasel
• Book: Held by the Unseen - available on Amazon

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