I’ve Decided Media

🚀 Streamline for Success: The Power of Simplicity In this insightful conversation, Andy Thorton, CEO of the Greater Peoria YMCA, sits down with Harvard Business School Executive Leadership Coach Matt George to unpack one of the most overlooked strategies in leadership and life: streamlining. Through real-world wisdom and executive-level insight, Andy and Matt challenge the myth that “more” means “better.” They explore how intentional simplification—cutting out the clutter, focusing on what truly matters—can unlock greater impact in business, personal growth, and even spiritual development. If you're feeling overwhelmed by endless tools, tasks, or information, this episode will help you refocus, refuel, and realign your energy toward purposeful progress. 🎯 Less noise. More results. 👉Learn More at www.ivedecided.org

🎙️ Living a Life Decided: Jerry Harkness – From Retirement to Purposeful Service In this episode of Living a Life Decided, we sit down with a man who proves that retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. Meet Jerry Harkness from Peoria Illinois, a retired Caterpillar Inc. professional who, instead of slowing down, chose to step up. After decades of hard work, Jerry found himself in a maintenance role at a retirement home. But something stirred in him—a desire for more clarity, more purpose, and more impact. That’s when he joined I’ve Decided in February 2023, seeking what we provide in “all the pieces of the puzzle.” With his wife Jeannine by his side, Jerry made a bold decision: to retire—again—in December 2023. But this time, it wasn’t about stepping away. It was about stepping into something greater. Together, they launched Happy 2 Help, a business built on compassion and community. Their mission? To serve and support individuals in their area, offering practical help and heartfelt connection. Jerry’s story is a powerful reminder that living a life decided means choosing purpose over passivity, and service over stagnation. He didn’t just retire—he re-fired his passion to make a difference. 📞 Want to connect with Jerry or see how Happy 2 Help can support you or someone you love? Reach out at 309-922-9630. Let him know you found his number from the podcast.

Michelle R. King currently works as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) stabilizing patients after surgery. She has worked in health care for over 35 years. She resides in Illinoi with her daughter, grandson, and son. When she’s not working in the hospital or writing she is focused on health, nutrition, wellness in addition to balancing her Mind, Body and Spirit. She knew young that she wanted to help people and decided to write this book as an extension of that. she aspires to help as many people as possible in life because she finds it fulfilling, Michell also believes that everyone has a story about how to overcome different tests and trials in life. Something that she follows is, "I have learned that nobody knows you better than you. Wholistic care is essential to having a balance. Internal love supersedes any other form of love outside of us. Once we begin to look within our own heart, we will meet our "true self" and not who society has suggested you should be or become. To God be the Glory, Michelle R. King BSN, RNL Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Peggy Jacques - Founder of Graceland Center for Purposeful Aging as a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission to enhance the lives of older adults through connections, education, and innovation! Masters prepared Registered Nurse with experience in Critical Care, Public Health, Employee Health, Infection Control, Nursing Management, Nursing Education for BSN Students and Nursing Leadership, Patient Education Coordinator, Faith Community Health Nursing, and Outpatient Palliative Care. Professional goals are to continue the advancement of nursing professionalism in every aspect of health care delivery, particularly nursing care provided to vulnerable populations such as those living in poverty, the elderly, and the disadvantaged. Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Pursue is not just chasing after fleeting pleasures, but having the courage and faith to pursue the God-given dreams planted in your heart. It’s about taking bold, consistent steps toward a life that honors God and brings true meaning, not just to your life, but to the lives of those around you. The life you've imagined, the dream you've been given, the calling on your life, it’s all waiting on the other side of a courageous decision to pursue. What you pursue matters! Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Reverend Craig Williams, Executive Director of South Side Mission, about this weeks, weekly winning word, Pursue! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

There are seasons for waiting and preparing, but there are also moments when the next right step is to move forward. You’ve done the research, you’ve weighed the options, you’ve prayed, and now, it’s time to act. Sometimes, success is just waiting on you to go. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Marcellus Sommerville, CEO, Peoria Friendship House of Christian Service, about this weeks, weekly winning word, GO! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

If you want to succeed, you need to identify what truly contributes to your progress and what holds you back. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Christine Bare Kemper, Candidate for ICC Board of Trustees, about this weeks, weekly winning word, attribute!

By preparing for the future and taking proactive steps today, you’re safeguarding yourself against potential obstacles. As the saying goes, “What you do today determines your tomorrow.” Every effort you make now—whether in health, finances, personal growth, or spirituality—is an act of coverage, a way of protecting and equipping your future self. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with David Bell, Owner of Life Line to Health, about this weeks, weekly winning word, coverage! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Without clarity on what truly matters, it’s easy to fall into the trap of expending urgency on distractions that yield little progress. We challenge you to embrace urgency with intention. Be quick to act on what God is calling you to do, but just as quick to discern what is truly necessary. By focusing your energy on the right priorities, you’ll be one step closer to living the purpose-filled life you’re designed for. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Kim Martin, Founder of I've Decided, about this weeks, weekly winning word, urgent! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Just as a seamstress uses a pattern to create a well-tailored garment, you must establish patterns in your life that align with the success you desire. Without these guiding structures, it becomes almost impossible to know where to begin, what steps to take, or how to ensure your actions are leading you toward the outcome you seek. Success doesn’t happen by accident; it follows a blueprint. And that blueprint is your pattern. Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

When you honor your individuality, you unlock the potential to contribute to the world in ways that no one else can, no matter how hard they try. Instead of blending in, remember that your uniqueness is your greatest asset. It’s what makes you extraordinary! What sets you apart? Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Jim Barrack, President and C.E.O. of Barrack's Cater Inn, about this weeks, weekly winning word, Distinct! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Before you can truly make an impact on the world, it’s crucial that you first convince yourself of the value of your own beliefs, goals, and purpose. The journey toward success begins with unwavering self-confidence and a deep conviction in the mission you’re pursuing. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Lindsey Kerr, Executive Director of Lifeline Pilots, about this weeks, weekly winning word, Convincing! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

There is only one you and you were put on this earth to do something that no one else can do. To accomplish your highest goals and dreams, you must stay focused and exclusive to who you are and what it is you should be doing. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Willie "Winky" Williams, Owner of HOOPS, INC. about this weeks, weekly winning word, exclusive! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Lauren Yoder, Married to husband Chris for 17 years, together they have 2 children, Laney, 16, and Oliver, 12. She has been employed with MH Equipment for almost 10 years, and in current position of Warranty Manager for the last 3 1/2. Also does photography, mainly family, senior and sports action shots. She is an author of 4 books, From the Weeds, 100 Days Sober, Another 100 Days Sober, and co-author with her daughter of My Mommy is an Alcoholic. She is a recovering alcoholic/addict with 10 years of sobriety. Currently leads AA meetings at Woodford Co Jail. Is involved in entrepreneurial mentoring those incarcerated in prison with Defy Ventures. And most recently joined forces with Prison Fellowship in seeking justice that restores. She is also involved with a group, Women In Leadership and is always seeking to improve leadership skills and networking.

Sharonda Romero is a dedicated and multifaceted individual with a rich background of service and entrepreneurship. With 16 years of honorable service in the Army, Sharonda has developed a wide array of skills and a passion for meeting new people and embracing diverse experiences. In addition to her military service, Sharonda is the founder of Tru-treasures, a family-owned online store specializing in all-natural and handcrafted products. Tru-treasures offers a variety of items including disability awareness jewelry, self-defense keychains, skincare products like turmeric facial pads, and unique hair and beard care essentials. The store is committed to serving civilians, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities, providing high-quality products that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. Sharonda's dedication to her business and community is evident in the thoughtfully designed products and the personal touch that goes into each item. Tru-treasures is not just a store but a testament to Sharonda's commitment to making a positive impact and supporting awareness for various important causes.

We got spirit yes we do, we got spirit how about you! Spirit, in the context of success, goes beyond mere enthusiasm; it’s about cultivating an energetic, passionate, and resilient mindset. This spirited approach can profoundly impact your journey towards achieving your goals and dreams. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Coach Bre, Owner of Bre Cottage about this weeks, weekly winning word, spirit! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Your ability to take decisive action, persevere through challenges, and learn from your experiences will greatly influence the outcome of whatever it is you want to accomplish. Ultimately, how you execute is what matters most on your success journey. Listen in as host Andy Thornton talks with Stacey Reed, Owner/Agent at Integrity Plus Insurance Company about this weeks, weekly winning word, execute! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Superficial commitments often waver when confronted with obstacles, but a deep commitment acts as an unyielding anchor that keeps you fixed on your goals. Listen in as the host Andy Thornton talks with Ryan Deemer, Principal at Skid Steer Nation about this weeks, weekly winning word, depth! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

What you’re capable of exceeds what you most likely believe about yourself. Keep going, keep working, keep growing, and keep fighting the fight! You can and will achieve whatever it is you desire if you recognize the vastness of your capabilities. Whatever you believe you’re capable of, the reality is, you’re capable of more! Listen in as the host Andy Thornton talks with Evan Jenkins about this weeks, weekly winning word, capability! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

Setting goals for yourself and pursuing them is an effective process that goes far beyond the accomplishment of whatever it is you want to achieve. Goal setting is a powerful tool that not only propels you toward success but also shapes your character, enhances motivation, and fosters personal growth. Listen in as the host Kim Martin, Founder of I've Decided talks with TJ Martin, Founder of Do the Dream as they have a discussion about the most rewarding reasons for setting and pursuing your goals! Learn more at www.ivedecided.org