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Welcome to the Dare to Be Great, Dare to Be You Podcast.
If you like honest, vulnerable, and real stories about what it takes to not only become great, but more self-confident and bold enough to be yourself, then this show is for you.
Join me each episode for inspiring, encouraging, and meaningful conversations with diverse people from all walks of life and industry.
Each of my guests started as ordinary people like you and me but have accomplished extraordinary things in their lives to be considered great, masters, or experts at what they have been called to do.
Leaders and brave individuals who offer unique insights into the fields of Arts, Entertainment, Business, Finance, Technology, Healthcare, Sports, Psychology, Recovery, Self-Improvement, Personal Growth, and so much more.
Whether you are in the same fields as my guests or not, I guarantee you will walk away from each episode feeling better about yourself and inspired to take the next bold step toward your own goals and aspirations.
Your life will improve if you,
Dare to Be Great and Dare to Be You!
Episodes
Wednesday May 13, 2026
Wednesday May 13, 2026
Embracing the Joy of Life without the Ankle Weights of Shame or Guilt
Join me for another honest, open and vulnerable conversation about business, life and emotional sobriety with my friend who's got a heart for service.
About Anthony:
Anthony Amunategui is the Founder of CDO Group, a National Commercial Construction firm he started almost 25 years ago with a small group in his basement. Today CDO group has worked with some of the world’s largest brands to build an estimated one million square feet of retail space per year.
His podcast Future Factory explores fascinating topics that are shaping the world as we know it. He loves discussing the advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the game changing technology that is developing before our eyes.
Anthony has a true passion for finding out what makes people successful in business and in life. He loves diving into conversations about what the future holds for us personally and professionally, and the adventures that shape that journey.
About the host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, Teacher, and Gap Mindset Coach/ Communications Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers Branch, and Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma. Shawn lives in Northern California.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Sunday May 03, 2026
Sunday May 03, 2026
24 seasons. 20,000 fans. One unforgettable voice.
And a story you never saw coming.
If you've ever been inside Chase Center when the Warriors take the floor, you've heard Franco Finn before you ever saw him. That voice — electric, commanding, unmistakably Bay Area — has been the heartbeat of Dub Nation for 24 seasons. And full disclosure? I'm one of those fans. I love this team. I love the sport and everything it represents about life.
Getting the opportunity to sit down and have a real conversation with the man behind the mic was a huge honor. But what I didn't expect was how deep this conversation would go — past the championships, past the crowds, past the hype — into the story of a son on a quiet, determined search for his father. Franco Finn is so much more than a hype man. And this episode proves it.
About Franco:
Franco Finn is a San Francisco native, small business owner (Franco Finn Productions, LLC), and member of the San Francisco Film Commission. He is best known as the In-Arena MC and TV Personality for the Golden State Warriors, now in his 24th season, where he energizes 20,000+ fans each game as the iconic “Warriors Hype Man.” Franco has appeared on ABC-7 KGO-TV, KRON 4, and serves as an MC/host for Cal Bears Football & Basketball. His hosting career spans major national and international sporting events, including NBA All-Star, FIBA World Cup, Major League Cricket, SailGP, Rugby World Cup, and EuroBasket.
A professional benefit auctioneer, Franco is a graduate of the prestigious Mendenhall School of Auctioneering and holds the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (B.A.S.) designation. He has helped raise millions for organizations such as the American Red Cross, March of Dimes, Ronald McDonald House, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
More Images: Finn@ City Hall 
Finn with Fitz & Buike
Find him here:
https://www.instagram.com/francofinn/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/franco-finn-07a9524/
https://www.facebook.com/franco.finn/
Articles:
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4218492/2023/02/17/nba-all-star-warriors-hype-man-franco-finn/
About the Host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, Teacher and Gap Mindset Coach & Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers, Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Thursday Apr 23, 2026
Thursday Apr 23, 2026
Grit, guts, tenacity, and humble boldness.
These are a few words I would use to describe Raven Divito.
She's a self taught photographer who broke the gender barriers starting in little league. She went on to become a union electrician in a male dominated industry, and was a key player leading the Sir Francis Drake High School (Now Archie Williams) Womens Basketball team to a state Championship in 1982.
Her whole life exemplifies the title of this podcast.
Join us as we dive into her recent solo journey to the Far East and talk about what shaped her to become the confident, kind and compassionate woman she is today.
Here's a little more about Raven in her words:
Fearless, relentless, and always evolving—at 61, I’ve spent a lifetime rewriting the rules. From one of just three girls who fought Marin County’s system to play in boys’ Minor League, and Little League baseball, to defying my 1978 West Marin Elementary dress code in a bold blue suede suit, I’ve never waited for permission.
A 1982 state champion in basketball, I carried that same fire into the trades as an IBEW union electrician in 1989—one of the few women in a gritty, male-dominated field. I also became a self-taught concert photographer in 1999, capturing the music scene with a Pentax film camera before going digital, contributing to magazines, and exhibiting my work in a San Pedro gallery.
In 2026, I retired from both the trades and the music industry to chase new horizons. Now I’m a solo backpacker, avid nature lover, and perpetual adventurer—embracing reinvention and the thrill of the unknown.
Social Media - Facebook @ravendivito
About the host:
Shawn Langwell is an Author, Teacher, Speaker, Gap Mindset Coach/Sales & Marketing Communications Consultant. He's written several transformational, self-improvement books. He's served as president of Redwood Writers (CWC) and is currently on the board of directors as vice president, speaker and conference chair, as well as pr director. Find him at shawnlangwell.com.
Saturday Mar 28, 2026
Saturday Mar 28, 2026
Grief isn't Bad
We all experience grief, loss, and the emtional pain of change. But many of us do not have the tools necessary to process it in healthy ways that heal.
Dr. Korie Leigh is a keynote speaker, thanatologist, and child life specialist with more than two decades of experience helping people navigate grief, loss, and major life transitions. She teaches healthcare professionals, educators, and leaders how to communicate with clarity and compassion when it matters most. An award-winning professor and author of three books on grief for children and families, her work blends clinical insight with practical tools people can use right away. She is also the founder of Willow Ritual and is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Find her books on Amazon
Website: www.korieleighphd.com
Social Media links: https://www.instagram.com/drkorieleigh https://www.linkedin.com/in/korie-leigh-phd-ccls-ft-99a5073a/
About the host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, Teacher, and Gap Mindset Coach, Sales & Marketing Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers Branch, and Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma. Shawn lives in Northern California.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
Burning Flame Sculpture, College of Marin, CA
Harkin Lucero Jr. — Sculptor of Monuments, Keeper of Memory
A Navajo-descent master sculptor who has spent decades carving history into stone and bronze — from Alcatraz Island to the halls of justice in Colorado.
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Career span 41+ yrs |
Largest work 72,000 lb |
Reach Worldwide |
About Harkin
It’s not every day you sit down with a gifted artist and sculptor of Navajo descent whose work has graced public spaces across the globe. Harkin Lucero Jr. has dedicated his career to creating monumental artwork in marble and granite — guiding projects from concept through completion. Based in Northern California, his commissions span diplomatic institutions, spiritual centers, and civic landmarks.
Notable projects
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14,000 lb |
Chung Tai Zen Center sculpture Sunnyvale, CA |
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72,000 lb |
Buddha restoration — Kim Son Temple Mt. Madonna, Watsonville, CA |
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8,000 lb |
Sun and Moon granite sculpture New Justice Center, Pueblo, CO |
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1994 |
Honor plaque — Native Occupation Alcatraz Island |
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Recent |
Medal of Honor Monument restoration 4 bronze soldiers, 14 ft tall on granite bases |
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Public |
Totem Pole Lake Merritt, Oakland, CA |
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Civic |
California Mission Indians monument Sonoma, CA |
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Intl |
Commissions: Bank of Spain SF, Bank of Portugal SF, Irish Consulate SF
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Honors & recognition
- Eagle Emmy Award — Southern CA Motion Picture Council
- Lifetime Achievement Humanitarian Award — Southern CA Motion Picture Council (1999)
- Oakland City Council Humanitarian Award
- Inductee — Bojack Native Hall of Fame
In the news
College of Marin — Burning Flame sculpture dedication
Connect with Harkin
About the host, Shawn Langwell:
Shawn Langwell is an inspirational author, speaker, teacher, marketing mentor and Gap Mindset Coach. He's written several transformational, self-improvement books. He's been in media sales for 34+ years and lives in Northern, CA.
Find him at shawnlangwell.com.
Sunday Feb 22, 2026
Sunday Feb 22, 2026
AUTHOR, YOGA TEACHER AND SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR, MARYELLEN WHITTON
Join us for another unscripted conversation about serving those in recovery at Pura Vida who need rides to and from meetings and appointment, and a transportation model that can be expanded across the country.
MaryEllen moved from New York to Northern California to attend San Francisco State University. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Marketing and enjoyed many years in sales.
As an entrepreneur, she has started several businesses and most recently Co-Founded a nonprofit, RECOVERY TRANSPORTATIONS SYSTEMS and serves on the Board of Directors.
She’s also a dedicated fitness enthusiast, having discovered yoga after the birth of her daughter. It became a huge passion, and she enrolled in an Advanced Studies/Teacher Training program. She is an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) with the Yoga Alliance and has been leading classes, workshops, and retreats for over 23 years.
When not on her yoga mat, she loves traveling to explore new cultures. Closer to home, she can be found hiking the local hills, walking her dogs, and spending time with family.
Find her book here: Lean Into Your Light
Find her on here: Facebook Page
About the host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, Teacher, and Gap Mindset Coach/ Communications Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers Branch, and Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma. Shawn lives in Northern California.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
What's Bringing You Joy?
Join me and Natalie as we discuss her process of writing her inspiring memoir. She talks about how she nagivated her way through a disabling illness to transform pain into a rich and vibrant life and is now offering workshops to help others live more sustainably and with greater purpose.
Natalie Gould is a coach, storyteller, and retreat leader who guides people and organizations
through transformation using embodied practices rooted in nature, narrative, and nervous system regulation.
After a post-viral condition left her disabled, Natalie recovered using somatic and mind-body
approaches. This journey transformed her work—she now helps people make change in their
lives—particularly learning to live more sustainably and with greater purpose.
Her approach integrates her background in theater and outdoor education with extensive training in spiritual formation and leadership development. She spent over a decade in corporate leadership, including as CFO of a small multinational software company, before dedicating herself fully to coaching and retreat work.
Natalie is writing a memoir about her farm and healing journey and publishes a free monthly
newsletter on Substack where she weaves farm stories with practical teachings on nervous
system regulation and living with greater presence and wholeness.
Connect with Natalie:
Website: www.sparrowcrowfarm.com
Social Media links:
• https://www.instagram.com/sparrowcrowfarm/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-gould-20b7b3155/
• https://sparrowcrowfarm.substack.com/
About the host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, Teacher, and Gap Mindset Coach/ Communications Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers Branch, and Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma. Shawn lives in Northern California.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Sunday Jan 25, 2026
Sunday Jan 25, 2026
About Chris:
Chris Hennessy is an award-winning filmmaker, author, and speaker. A Rice University graduate, he spent 28 years producing over 1,500 films for major clients including Google, eBay, and the SF 49ers.
Since retiring from commercial filmmaking in 2018, Chris has built a multi-platform creative presence with 6.8 million combined views. His TV series Yolo YoYo's won Best New TV Cable Series in 2019. His documentary Miracles on College Street earned the Film Heals Award at the 2022 Manhattan Film Festival and Top Five Best Documentary honors.
Chris shares monthly essays through his HennSchtick newsletter on Substack, blending humor with unflinching honesty about living with stage IV cancer. His memoir Touched by Hannah—A Man with cancer. His one-pound newborn. And their fight for life—launched to 125 standing-room-only crowd November 2024. Chris and Hannah are planning a 2026 Northern California book tour and national podcast tour.
Member: California Writers Club Sacramento and Elk Grove Writers Guild.
Find Chris Here:
Website: https://www.henchris.com
Social Media links:
https://www.facebook.com/Chris.Hennessy.Uniondale/
https://www.facebook.com/touchedbyhannah/
IG @chrishennessyfilms
About The Host:
Shawn Langwell is an Inspirational Author, Speaker, and Sales & Executive Gap Mindset Coach/Consultant. He has written several transformational books including, Beyond Recovery, Ten Seconds of Boldness and its companion workbook, Morning Motivation, and Chill. He’s also the Past President of The California Writers Club (CWC), Redwood Writers Branch, and Past President of Toastmasters of Petaluma. Shawn lives in Northern California.
Find him at www.shawnlangwell.com.
Shawn Langwell
My personal mission is to add value to people and businesses everywhere. More specifically: To encourage, inspire, and help people like you become brave and confident enough to believe you can accomplish your dreams and goals. This podcast is one of the ways I do that. I’m also an inspirational author, speaker, coach, and business consultant who is passionate about helping others dare to take a chance on themselves.
I’ve also authored four books —Beyond Recovery a memoir, Ten Seconds of Boldness and a companion workbook to overcome challenges and build self-confidence, and Today’s the Day, a pocket muse to inspire and encourage you to find joy and gratitude in all you do.
You can find me at www.shawnlangwell.com