In this episode of The Values Exchange, Mike Crews sits down with Dennis Connors — U.S. Marine veteran, former special operations intelligence professional, and Paralympic silver medalist — to explore what perseverance really means.

After multiple traumatic brain injuries, two strokes, severe PTSD, and relearning how to walk, Dennis refused to give up on the passions that defined him: climbing, cycling, competing, and serving others. His journey from combat to the Paralympic podium is a powerful story of resilience, identity, and long-term perseverance.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The difference between grit and perseverance

• Overcoming adversity after trauma and life-altering setbacks

• Rebuilding identity after military service

• Mental health, vulnerability, and asking for help

• The four pillars of perseverance: vulnerability, self-love, disciplined action, and community

If you are navigating a transition, pursuing a demanding goal, or facing a difficult season, this episode offers practical insight and lasting perspective.

Perseverance is not just pushing harder. It is staying committed to what you love, even when the path changes.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and values-based decision-making.

#Perseverance #Resilience #Paralympics #VeteranStories #MentalHealth #Leadership #TheValuesExchange

What changes when everything you thought mattered suddenly falls away?

In this powerful episode of The Values Exchange Podcast, Mike Crews sits down with renowned aviator and entrepreneur Mark Patey to explore his near death experience and the perspective it reshaped forever. Mark shares what it felt like to face death, what he experienced beyond it, and how that moment fundamentally altered how he views life, success, identity, and connection.

This conversation goes far beyond aviation. Together, they unpack the value of perspective, the freedom that comes from letting go of ego and labels, and why we do not have to wait until death to live with clarity, peace, and purpose. Mark reflects on spirituality versus religion, the idea of being enough, the danger of division, and what truly matters when achievement and possessions no longer define us.

If you have ever questioned your priorities, struggled with anxiety, or wondered what gives life real meaning, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that perspective can change everything.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding your specific situation.

Discover how your wardrobe shapes first impressions, influences confidence, and
impacts your professional success. In this episode of The Values Exchange, Mike
Crews sits down with style strategist and author Elisa Ellis to explore the hidden
advantage of dressing with authentic intention.

If you have ever questioned what to wear, how to stand out professionally, or why
certain outfits make you feel more confident, this conversation breaks it all down
in a practical and relatable way.

What you’ll learn:
• How clothes communicate before you ever say a word
• Why authentic style boosts confidence and decision making
• The real impact of first impressions in a post-COVID world
• How to build an on-brand wardrobe without overspending
• Tips for setting clear style expectations in the workplace
• Simple strategies to refresh your closet and dress with purpose

Elisa shares insights from her new book The Style Advantage and explains how
authentic style can help you show up with clarity, confidence, and presence in
both your personal and professional life.

#FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #MoreThanWealth #AuthenticStyle
#ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipPresence