Thinking That Matters with Elizabeth Mahusay

https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Elizabeth is a dynamic professional committed to empowering individuals and organizations through thought transformation. With a background in chemistry education, she initially taught science before discovering her passion for mentoring and coaching. Over the years, Elizabeth has trained thousands to overcome limiting beliefs and implement systems that foster personal and professional growth.

In 2024, she published her latest book, Pick Your Path, which offers practical insights and encouragement to help readers align their careers and personal lives with their true calling. Elizabeth is also a certified keynote speaker and leadership coach with Southwestern Consulting, specializing in sales, management, and leadership development.

As the host of the Thinking That Matters podcast, she shares valuable content on business, motivation, and personal growth. Elizabeth and her husband, Fred, have been married for over 28 years and have two grown sons. They are active members of Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen, Texas.

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

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#112 Beyond Bookkeeping: Why Every Small Business Needs a Fractional CFO Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Are you running your business, or is it running you?

Many business owners get so caught up in the daily grind that they never take a step back to plan for the future. Without financial strategy and leadership, growth can feel like a guessing game. So, how do you take control?

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I sit down with Graham Brooks, Managing Partner at MMB Tax CPA and a fellow classmate from the Leadership McKinney Class of 2025. Graham shares his journey into accounting, from a high school elective to becoming a leader in the field. He discusses his firm’s innovative approach to tax strategy, bookkeeping, and the launch of their fractional CFO service, which helps small businesses gain financial clarity without the high cost of a full-time CFO.

We also dive into the challenges of public accounting, the importance of leadership development, and the role faith plays in Graham’s approach to business. Whether you're a business owner looking for financial guidance or an entrepreneur navigating growth challenges, this episode is packed with practical insights on strategic planning, overcoming limiting beliefs, and building a business that works for you.

Key Takeaways:

Why small businesses need fractional CFO services for sustainable growth
The crisis in public accounting and the need for fresh talent in the field
The power of strategic planning and financial forecasting for business success
How overcoming limiting beliefs helps entrepreneurs step into leadership
The role of faith in business decisions and trusting the journey

Connect with Graham Brooks & MMB Tax CPA:

Website: www.mmbtaxcpa.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahambrookscpa/
Phone: 972-562-2100

In honor of service men and women, MMB Tax CPA always offer a 10% discount for military, first responders, and teachers.

Join the Conversation: 💡 What’s one financial or leadership shift you can make today to grow your business? Share your thoughts with us!

Subscribe & Leave a Review! If you found value in this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

More about Graham:

Graham Brooks is a Certified Public Accountant and the sole owner of Murray, Mensch & Brooks, P.C. (MMB), a trusted McKinney-based CPA firm serving individuals and small businesses since 1986. With a background in middle-market firms, Graham is dedicated to expanding and elevating MMB’s services while maintaining its strong community focus.

His approach blends strategic tax planning, bookkeeping, and fractional CFO services, challenging traditional public accounting models to better serve clients. Passionate about innovation in the industry, Graham is committed to helping small business owners navigate financial complexities with clarity and confidence.

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com.

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#111 How to Overcome Fear and Build a Successful Business with Jason Liu Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

How do you go from feeling out of place in a networking event to running a thriving business? What happens when you step into a networking event for the first time and feel completely out of place?

Jason Liu, owner of NSW Electric (Never Stop Working), shares how he went from feeling like an outsider to building a thriving electrical business through persistence, relationship-building, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.

In this episode, Jason reveals: ✔️ How he overcame the fear of networking and learned to connect with people. ✔️ The power of communicating your value as a business owner. ✔️ Why belief in yourself—and in your team—is the key to long-term success. ✔️ The mindset shift that allowed him to take a month-long vacation without his business falling apart. ✔️ How humor and authenticity help him stand out in a crowded industry.

If you’ve ever doubted whether you can grow your business while maintaining balance, Jason’s story will inspire you to take bold steps forward.

Listen now and discover how to cultivate thinking that truly matters!

Need an electrician you can actually trust? From small fixes to full-scale projects, NSW Electric delivers expert service with integrity, precision—and maybe even a few laughs along the way. Visit NSW Electric today to schedule your service! https://nsw-electrical.com/residential-commercial-electrical-services/

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone who needs a little extra encouragement to take action today!

More about Jason:

Jason Liu is the most optimistic person on earth, who happens to be the ultimate problem solver, he started with car problems, home repairs, then he advanced to love problems, and career problems and life problems. He has an electrical business which solves electrical problems at an extremely high level. His nickname at work is The Fortune teller.

https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com.

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Keys to a Thriving Blended Family with Ken Ussery Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ken Ussery, a life coach, and founder of Family Redesign. Ken shares his incredible journey from 40 years in ministry to creating a nonprofit that helps blended families navigate their unique challenges. With personal stories of faith, resilience, and transformation, Ken reveals key insights on overcoming hardships, embracing change, and building a thriving blended family.

Ken Ussery has dedicated his life to helping others, from his early ministry days to his passion for strengthening blended families. In this conversation, he reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his purpose—starting with childhood visits to elderly neighbors, navigating life as a single dad, and blending a family of four children. Ken also opens up about the emotional toll of divorce, the struggles of remarriage, and the mindset shifts that allowed him to embrace his calling in a new way.

We further discuss the importance of asking for help, maintaining a strong marriage in a blended family, and shifting limiting beliefs to create a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of blending a family, visit FamilyRedesign.org to access resources, coaching, and support. Also, be sure to check out Ken’s podcast, The Goodness of God, for more encouragement and faith-based insights.

Links & Resources Mentioned

Family Redesign Website – FamilyRedesign.org
The Goodness of God Podcast – Available on YouTube and podcast platforms

More about Ken Ussery:

Ken has been in the ministry for 40 years, serving in many different capacities. His credentials include BBA in Accounting, MBA in Marriage and Family Counseling, Theological Training through Dallas Theological Seminary, and certified life coach. In addition, Ken has been a REMAX Realtor in North Texas for the past 12 years, specializing in the residential market. Ken and Teri have a not-for-profit organization called Family [re]Design, providing resources for blending families, and provide coaching sessions to individuals and couples. Their office is in downtown McKinney. In addition, Ken and Teri host a weekly podcast called "The Goodness of God". For more information go to their website: www.familyredesign.org.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from Ken’s story, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and inspire others to embrace Thinking That Matters.

https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#109: Building a Business & Life Together with Trish & Mark Littlejohn of Trimark Home Construction Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I sit down with Trish and Mark Littlejohn, the dynamic duo behind Trimark Home Construction. As business partners and life partners, they share their journey of entrepreneurship, overcoming challenges, and the values that drive their success.

Trish and Mark Littlejohn open up about their unique career paths and the story behind Trimark Home Construction. Trish, a seasoned roofer and co-owner, shares how she found her passion in an industry she never expected to enter. Mark discusses his transition from the corporate world—where he worked for Ericsson—to joining Trish in the family business after an unexpected layoff.

Throughout this conversation, they highlight the power of partnership, the importance of faith in overcoming obstacles, and how embracing failure has played a key role in their growth. They also offer practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of networking, mentorship, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Key takeaways:

The importance of passion and mutual support in a business partnership
Embracing failure as a stepping stone to success
The role of faith and positive thinking in overcoming challenges
Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on building a supportive network and seeking guidance

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on resilience, faith, and making business work—together!

Want to learn more about Trimark Home Construction? Connect with Trish and Mark through their website or meet them at local chamber events:

Website: https://www.trimarkhomeconstruction.com/app/index.html

Chamber events: https://members.planochamber.org/list/member/trimark-home-construction-24572.htm

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from Trish and Mark’s story, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and inspire others to embrace Thinking That Matters.

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Addiction to Empowerment: Jeffrey Mercier's Journey of Transformation Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Today, I sat down with Jeffery Mercier, a project manager at Blue Hawk Construction and a passionate advocate for personal development. Jeffery shares his powerful journey of overcoming addiction, finding confidence through Toastmasters, and learning the importance of vulnerability in both life and business.

We discuss: ✅ His path to sobriety after a 2020 DWI and the lessons learned ✅ How Toastmasters transformed his communication skills and self-belief ✅ The impact of grace, forgiveness, and tough conversations—especially with family ✅ Breaking free from “nice guy syndrome” and setting healthy boundaries ✅ The role of faith in his personal and professional growth ✅ His big goals: Becoming a developer and competing in a bodybuilding show

We also discuss his children’s book, Timmy and the Circle of Change, which teaches kids the importance of choosing the right friends—an essential lesson for any stage of life.

Tune in to this powerful conversation and get inspired by Jeffrey’s journey of resilience and transformation. Grab a copy of his book on Amazon and help the next generation make smarter choices! https://www.amazon.com/Timmy-Circle-Change-Jeffery-Mercier/dp/B0DP648KQJ

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from Jeffery’s story, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and inspire others to embrace Thinking That Matters.

More about Jeffery:

Jeffery R. Mercier is a project manager at Blue Hawk Construction, a company specializing in transforming distressed properties into homes. He is also the author of the children's book Timmy and the Circle of Change, which follows Timmy on an adventure where he learns the importance of choosing the right friends.

Jeffery has been featured on podcasts such as "Lvl Up The Podcast," where he discusses current projects and insights from his professional journey. He is active on social media, sharing reflections on personal growth and spirituality.

His diverse experiences and commitment to personal development make him a compelling guest for discussions on resilience, transformation, and the importance of intentional relationships.

Connect with him:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oratorofdivinity/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferymercierbh

linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/oratorofdivinity

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#107 How Theater Builds Community and Connection with Davina Gazo Stampfel Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I had the pleasure of chatting with Davina Gazo Stampfel, executive director of McKinney Repertory Theater (MRT) and a passionate advocate for the arts. As a fellow member of Leadership McKinney’s Class of 2025, I was excited to dive into how theater isn’t just about performing—it’s about building connections, fostering empathy, and transforming lives.

Davina’s love for theater started when she was a kid, putting on puppet shows and writing stories. With her mom’s encouragement, she auditioned for Alice in Wonderland in eighth grade—and landed the lead role! That moment sparked a lifelong passion. While she tried professional acting, she found her true home in community theater, where it’s all about collaboration and support.

She shared how MRT is powered by volunteers, from selecting productions to engaging audiences through fun awards. When she moved to Texas and was pregnant, the theater community became her lifeline, showing just how powerful the arts can be in creating real connections.

Beyond the stage, Davina talked about how theater teaches empathy and why storytelling matters. She also gave a fresh perspective on nonprofits—seeing other organizations as collaborators, not competitors—leading to amazing initiatives like student tickets and programs for seniors.

Key topics discussed:

How community theater brings people together
The impact of COVID-19 on local arts organizations
Finding confidence and passion through theater
Why empathy in storytelling makes a difference in everyday life

Don't miss MRT's FREE student ticket show, 12 Angry Jurors! Sponsored by H-E-B, this gripping performance will be in March. Spread the word and make sure students get their tickets to this must-see event!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from Christina’s story, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and inspire others to embrace Thinking That Matters.

More about Davina:

Davina Gazo Stampfel is the Executive Director of McKinney Repertory Theatre (MRT), McKinney’s nonprofit community theater based at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Since moving to Texas in 2019, she has been deeply involved in the local arts scene, starting as an actor in MRT’s A Christmas Carol and eventually taking on a leadership role.

Beyond theater, Davina serves on the Board of Directors for Chestnut Square Heritage Village, organizes McKinney Creative Community, and is part of Leadership McKinney’s Class of 2025. She’s also an active member of the McKinney Historic Neighborhood Association and Power In Numbers (PIN).

Before MRT, Davina spent 17 years leading award-winning content marketing campaigns for brands like Bank of America, Google, Microsoft, and top recording artists, including Rihanna, Mariah Carey, and The Killers. When she’s not immersed in the arts, she enjoys time with her husband and four-year-old son.

Connect with Davina:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davina.gazo/

Website: https://mckinneyrep.org/

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#106: The Goodness Game: Bryan Driscoll on Making a Difference Through Kindness Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I had an incredible conversation with Bryan Driscoll, author of The Goodness Game.

Bryan, a Pittsburgh native and father of three, shared his inspiring journey from a troubled youth to a successful entrepreneur and advocate for small acts of kindness. While he owns a digital marketing company that generates leads for real estate investors, his true passion lies in making a difference in the world.

We started by discussing how fatherhood completely transformed Bryan’s perspective on life. One of the most moving parts of our conversation was his story about running away to Orlando with just $200 in his pocket. The kindness of strangers during that time left a lasting impression, inspiring his “pay it forward” philosophy that continues to guide him.

Bryan also opened up about his journey into digital marketing and shared valuable insights on overcoming limiting beliefs. He emphasized the importance of taking action instead of waiting for perfection and how his impulsive-yet-calculated approach to risk-taking has helped him seize opportunities while staying grounded.

Faith has been a cornerstone of Bryan’s life, helping him manage stress and focus on what truly matters. He left us with a powerful challenge: to act on opportunities to help others—without overthinking or hesitating—because even the smallest gestures can create a big impact.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

The significance of measuring impact through data and key performance indicators (KPIs).
How to overcome limiting beliefs that hold you back from taking action.
The role of faith in personal and professional development.
Practical tips for cultivating a mindset that fosters positive change.

Don’t forget to grab Bryan’s book, The Goodness Game, at goodnessgame.com or on Amazon. It’s a must-read!

More about Bryan:

Bryan Driscoll is a first-time author driven by a passion for kindness and positive change. A stranger’s small act of generosity 20 years ago inspired his mission to pay it forward, leading to The Goodness Game.

Based in Pittsburgh with his wife and three sons, Bryan runs a digital marketing agency, invests in real estate, and helps others grow through speaking and teaching.

Connect with Bryan:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegoodnessgame/shorts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoodnessgame/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodnessgame
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegoodnessgame/
Website: www.goodnessgame.com
Email: bryan@goodnessgame.com

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com.

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay
Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#105 Navigating Cultural Clashes and Career Growth with Christina N Nwachukwu Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I have the privilege to sit down with a friend and management consultant, Christina N Nwachukwu. Christina shares her journey of immigrating to the United States from South Sudan at the age of 10, describing the significant cultural adjustments she faced.

Our conversation delves into Christina's rich background, her career in management consulting, and her deep connection to Texas, which she proudly calls home.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about cultural clashes, resilience, and the wisdom gained through Christina's experiences.

Key Takeaways:

The cultural challenges and adjustments of moving to a new country as a child
The importance of embracing and navigating cultural differences
The importance of overcoming people-pleasing tendencies
The value of leveraging personal strengths and self-assessments to enhance career development and personal fulfillment
The significance of cultivating positive thinking and using faith and practical strategies to navigate challenging situations

More about Christina:

Christina Nykanyirri Nwachukwu, known as CNN, is a seasoned People Developer and Corporate Finance Transformation Strategist with a passion for helping individuals and organizations unlock their undiscovered potential. Leveraging 16 years of business experience, she is currently seeking opportunities to drive operational excellence and strategic execution within organizations. Christina is a people developer at heart with a deep passion for executive, career, and personal coaching. A lifelong learner, she is dedicated to living a bold, authentic, and unapologetic lifestyle—both personally and professionally—while fostering meaningful, impactful connections.

Connect with her. https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-n-nwachukwu-a3603846/

For more episodes and resources, visit elizabethmahusay.com.

Stay connected with me on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay
Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/

Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:

Ready to shift the way you think and lead?

Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.

👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#104 Turning Your Passion into a Full-Time Career with Fred Mahusay of FredShots Photography Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my husband, Fred Mahusay, also known as the "Fred of FredShots Photography." In this episode, Fred shares his unique upbringing, balancing traditional Filipino culture with mainstream American life, and how that shaped his perspective.

He recounted a pivotal moment from his childhood when his father introduced him to photography through a Polaroid camera, igniting a passion that would shape his future.

As we reminisced about his journey, Fred opened up about the self-doubt and limiting beliefs that held him back from pursuing photography full-time for many years. He emphasized the importance of having a clear definition of what being a "full-time photographer" meant, as well as the necessity of overcoming comparison with others in the industry.

We discussed how he navigated these challenges through a strong prayer life and by seeking support from close friends.

Key takeaways:

The importance of clarity and support in pursuing your dreams
Overcoming limiting beliefs and self-doubt
Explore your interests, no matter how small they may seem and investing in your passion

Fred’s insights on gratitude and perspective serve as a powerful reminder that, even in challenging times, there is always something to be thankful for.

This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to turn their passion into a fulfilling career, with practical advice on overcoming obstacles along the way.

Looking for a professional photo that truly represents you? Let Fredshots bring your vision to life. Whether for business, family, or personal projects, we’re here to capture the moments that matter. Reach out today to schedule your session and see the difference.

Visit Fredshots here! https://fredshots.com/

More about Fred Mahusay:

Fred founded Fredshots in 2000 and relocated to McKinney TX in late 2010. He specializes in the business headshot with an emphasis on providing convenient and affordable photography excellence. He brings the same energy to every photo session whether he is serving a large corporation such as IBM and New York Life or a small business owner. He enjoys photographing within the local DFW metroplex and has been commissioned to fly to various locations around the country. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth, and together they have two grown sons.

Thank you for tuning in to Thinking That Matters!

If you find value in this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from Fred’s story, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and inspire others to embrace Thinking That Matters.