Surviving Cancer, Finding Joy

Brooks Bell’s shift from CEO stress to purposeful living

At 38, Brooks Bell was a successful CEO when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. That moment forced her to rethink everything — from work and perfectionism to connection and joy. Her story is a reminder that listening to our bodies can change and even save our lives.

🎧 Listen on the website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s4e218

For Brooks, cancer wasn’t just a health battle. It was a reset. She shares how letting go of the armor of achievement helped her step into a life filled with more fun, presence, and purpose. Her story will leave you reflecting on what matters most.

Three things to think about

  1. Health signals are easy to ignore — but listening to your gut can save your life.

  2. Armor built from success and perfectionism can hide our truest selves.

  3. Joy, fun, and play are not luxuries. They are essential parts of living fully.

Two things to ask yourself

  1. What is my body telling me that I might be dismissing?

  2. Where am I tying my worth to achievement instead of presence or joy?

One thing to try this week

Schedule one small act of fun — a dance, a silly game, or music (perhaps Disco Snails? - IYKYK) that makes you move. Notice how you feel afterward.

I’d love for you to listen to Brooks’ full story. And if something here sparked a thought, hit reply — I’d love to hear what’s on your mind.

🎧 Listen on the website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/follow

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PS: I created a short-form podcast, “It’s Okay If…” Each episode is under three minutes long and provides a permission slip to be human. I’d be honored if you subscribed to the show. New episodes are released every Wednesday at noon ET.

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