For Jonathan Wells, resilience turned life's toughest challenges into a foundation for growth. In this episode of SUPERPOWER, host Kristine Milkovich uncovers an extraordinary story of perseverance and transformation. She sits down with Jonathan Wells, whose journey from adversity to success is a testament to the power of hope and determination.

Jonathan Wells shares his remarkable path from growing up as the son of a music minister and a beauty queen in a conservative religious household to confronting addiction and navigating his identity as a gay man.

Now a thriving HR professional, Jonathan opens up about the battles he fought, the lessons he learned, and the mindset shifts that changed his life. His honesty, vulnerability, and wisdom will leave you uplifted and ready to tackle your own challenges.

In this episode, you'll learn how Jonathan's journey may just inspire you to discover how embracing life's creative and emotional experiences can transform your professional and personal life.

In this episode:

[2:22] Meet Jonathan Wells

[4:08] Growing up in a conservative, religious household

[7:55] Struggles with identity

[20:00] Journey through addiction

[25:02] From acting to HR

[33:07] Path to recovery

[42:00] Jonathan’s SUPERPOWER

Connect with Kristine Milkovich

themilkovichteam.com | IG - @stylebymilkovich | @kristine.milkovich on Facebook & LinkedIn

What fuels a successful and fulfilling career? How can creativity and business seamlessly blend? What lessons can we take away from navigating life’s challenges with resilience and joy?

In this episode of SUPERPOWER, Kristine Milkovich sits down with Leigh Canlis, a seasoned real estate professional and former art consultant, to explore these compelling topics. Leigh’s journey offers an inspiring look at how a passion for helping others and embracing authenticity can shape both personal and professional success.

From her early career working with the legendary glass artist Dale Chihuly to building a thriving real estate business, Leigh shares her unique story. She delves into the pivotal moments that shaped her career, including how she landed her first job and navigating the challenges brought by COVID. Through her experiences, Leigh demonstrates the art of blending creativity with business acumen, all while staying true to herself and supporting others in reaching their dreams.

Listeners will uncover valuable insights about resilience, authenticity, and finding joy in their pursuits. Leigh’s story highlights the importance of adaptability in the face of adversity and the power of embracing one’s individuality. Whether you’re navigating your own career path or seeking inspiration, this episode is filled with wisdom to help you unlock your SUPERPOWER.

In this episode:

[1:56] Meet Leigh Canlis

[2:54] Leigh’s journey into the art world

[6:41] Moving into real estate

[16:41] Navigating COVID & personal growth

[21:40] Regional vs. global brands

[28:08] A woman in a “man's” world: a story from Leigh

[31:34] Creativity in business

[36:56] Finding joy in what you do

[47:34] Leigh’s SUPERPOWER

Links & Resources

leigh.withwre.com

Follow Leigh: @leighcanlis LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Connect with Kristine Milkovich

themilkovichteam.com | IG - @stylebymilkovich | @kristine.milkovich on Facebook & LinkedIn

In this powerful episode of SUPERPOWER, host Kristine Milkovich sits down with former Air Force Lieutenant Steven Marose to explore his extraordinary journey of resilience and advocacy after being court-martialed and imprisoned in 1990 due to his sexual orientation.

Steve grew up in the Tacoma area and joined the Air Force as an officer in 1988. While in service, he was court-martialed for “consensual sodomy” and “conduct unbecoming an officer” and spent 18 months in prison at Fort Leavenworth. He emerged as a militantly out gay man and although he has in many ways never looked back, he continues 30 years later to carry the stigma of a felony conviction and dishonorable discharge.

Steve’s story was told last year on stage for the Seattle Men's Chorus and on CBS National News. This year when President Biden announced pardons for LGBTQ military veterans who had been convicted of consensual sodomy, news organizations once again turned to Steve for his reaction as the "face" of the issue.

Steve is a true change-maker and puts words and experience to the challenges many groups are facing when it comes to human rights in our country. He encourages us to keep fighting, stand up for what’s right, and be an ally and advocate for those around us.

In this episode:

[0:55] A story of resilience: meet Steve Marose

[3:55] Steve’s early life and military career

[7:58] Facing criminal charges

[12:12] Life after court marshall

[16:41] Fighting for a presidential pardon

[23:30] Challenges with military discharge and benefits

[32:03] Some urgency with presidential pardons

[35:03] Inspiration from Greta Kammermeyer

[40:44] The broader battle for human rights

[47:11] Steve’s SUPERPOWER and closing thoughts

Links & Resources:

Seattle Times: WA Veteran Imprisoned for Being Gay Among Just 7 Seeking Biden Pardon

BBC: Pardoned former officer says military gay sex conviction 'hangs over me'

CBS News: Air Force veteran once imprisoned for being gay still endures the stigma of a felony record

Seattle Gay News:The struggles of obtaining VA benefits for LGBTQ service members: Local Gay veteran hopes to obtain pardon before Trump inauguration

LGBTQ Nation: This gay veteran spent 2 years in jail because he had sex. He can finally get a pardon.

Advocate: Gay man fights for pardon after he was jailed for being LGBTQ+ in the military 30 years ago

Seattle Men’s Chorus on IG - @seattle.mens.chorus

Connect with Kristine Milkovich

themilkovichteam.com | IG - @stylebymilkovich | @kristine.milkovich on Facebook & LinkedIn