The Circle of the Panda Podcast
Self-Improvement
About
Circle of the Panda is a podcast about rising, rebuilding, and leading with purpose. Host JD Ross sits down with leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday fighters to talk faith, business, mindset, and what it really takes to get back up when life knocks you down. Whether you’re growing your leadership, navigating challenges, or fighting your own battles, these conversations will encourage you forward and point you toward truth.
Episodes
- Dogs - Our Companions - Marilyn Doss
Marilyn Doss shares her personal journey into dog grooming on The Circle of the Panda podcast, highlighting the deep connection between people and dogs, which she views as companions and healers offering unconditional love.
- Endee Coaching Collective - Michelle Cates and Gentry Hamrick
Michelle Cates and Gentry Hamrick co-founded Endee Coaching Collective, a neurodivergent-led business offering situational coaching and body-doubling for ADHD and autistic clients. They emphasize working with clients' brains instead of aga…
- Shawn Robert Johnson Episode 3 - What is Next
Shawn Robert Johnson details his post-prison life, emphasizing intentional rebuilding through faith, service, and entrepreneurship. He shares lessons learned, his published works, and his current ventures in public speaking, preaching, and…
- Shawn Johnson Episode 2: Staying Encouraged
In Part 2 of his conversation with JD, Shawn Johnson explains how his faith in God provided the endurance needed during a 60-year prison sentence. He shares insights on praying authentically, finding purpose in strengthening others, and th…
- Shawn Johnson Episode 1: Clemency
Shawn Johnson details his experience of being sentenced to 60 years, his time in prison, and his eventual release through executive clemency. The episode explores his personal growth, faith, and efforts to positively impact prison culture.
- Contented Canine - Colonial Tom Kelly
Colonel Tom Kelly, a retired U.S. Army officer, shares his journey of becoming a professional dog trainer and the philosophy behind his business, Contented Canines. He connects his military background with principles of leadership and purp…
- What Gets Into Your Heart with Athena Dean Holtz
JD sits down with Athena Dean Holtz, founder of Redemption Press and author, to discuss guarding your heart in a world of competing voices. They explore topics such as subtle deception, unresolved wounds, spiritual counterfeits, discernmen…
- Fight the Good Fight - Episode 12: Summing it Up
In this episode, JD Ross concludes the "Fight the Good Fight" series. The discussion centers on spiritual warfare, emphasizing discipline, consistency, and reliance on God's word. Listeners are encouraged to remain steadfast in their spiri…
- Fight the Good Fight - Episode 11: The Role of Worship in Warfare
In this episode, JD Ross discusses worship as a weapon in spiritual battles, referencing Psalm 22:3, Acts 16:25, and Psalm 28:7. He explains how worship shifts focus to God, invites His presence, and combats fear and discouragement, encour…
- Fight the Good Fight - Episode 10: Overcoming Fear
In this episode, JD Ross shares ways to overcome fear with faith. He discusses speaking scripture, using affirmations, seeking faithful voices, and remembering God's faithfulness.
- Fight the Good Fight - Episode 9: Walking in Daily Obedience
This is episode 9 of The Circle of the Panda Podcast, titled "Walking in Daily Obedience." The episode is presented by JD.
- Fight the Good Fight - Episode 8: Guard Your Heart
In this episode, JD Ross discusses guarding your heart, drawing from Proverbs 4:23, Psalm 51:10, and Matthew 5:8. He explains that protecting your heart involves intentionally monitoring influences and offers three practical steps: checkin…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 7: Guarding Your Mind
In this episode, JD Ross shares how to guard your mind by capturing destructive thoughts and replacing them with scripture. He discusses breaking cycles of fear, shame, worry, and regret to live with peace and purpose, referencing 2 Corint…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 6: Wisdom
JD Ross explores the difference between worldly wisdom and godly wisdom, referencing James 1:5, Proverbs 2:6, and James 3:13–17. He discusses how true wisdom comes from God and contrasts it with worldly wisdom, emphasizing purity, peace, m…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 5: Fighting Together
In this episode, JD Ross explains the importance of choosing the right people to fight alongside you in spiritual battles, drawing from Ecclesiastes 4:9–12. He discusses the role of accountability and the encouragement that comes from comm…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 4: The Power of Prayer
In this episode, JD Ross explores the power of prayer in spiritual warfare, referencing Philippians 4:6–7, James 5:16, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18. He encourages listeners to incorporate daily prayer into their lives for strength, peace, a…
- Terrance Randolph - National Alliance on Mental Illness: Piedmont and Tri-County
In this episode, Terrence Randolph from NAMI Piedmont Tri-County shares his personal experiences with grief and healing, and discusses mental health advocacy. He highlights the importance of community, accessible mental health resources, a…
- Globe Aware: Kimberly Haley-Coleman
Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder of Globe Aware, joins the podcast to discuss her journey from a corporate career to leading short-term service projects. She highlights ethical and culturally immersive volunteering and the life-changing exp…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 3:Training for Endurance
This episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast features JD Ross discussing spiritual endurance. He shares practical ways to keep moving forward, drawing from Hebrews 12:1–3, and focusing on fixing eyes on Jesus, removing distractions, and…
- Tosha Dash - She Dreams Academy
Tasha Dash, CEO of She Dreams Consulting and creator of She Dreams Academy, guies women in transitioning from corporate roles to business ownership. She discusses her personal journey, the importance of mindset and a strong business founda…
- Fight the Good Fight Episode 2: Standing Strong in the Battle
JD Ross explores spiritual battles and how to stand firm using Ephesians 6. The episode discusses the armor of God: truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer, highlighting how these tools can help viewers resp…
- Barrett Counterman Episode # 3
This is the third part of a series with Barrett Counterman. The episode discusses perceptions of people with disabilities, their representation in churches, prayer for people with disabilities, and how Barrett Counterman would run a Bible…
- Fighting the Good Fight Episode 1
In this episode, JD Ross introduces a new 12-week series, "Fight the Good Fight of Faith," based on 1 Timothy 6:11-12. He discusses the concept of focusing on spiritual battles for peace and purpose.
- The Swaggy Life - Barrett Counterman Episode 2
Barrett Counterman shares his vision and experiences, discussing his struggles, dreams, and the meaning behind "Swaggy Life." He also offers advice for individuals in assisted living homes.
- Through Their Eyes - Barrett Counterman - Episode 1
Barrett Counterman shares motivations for launching a podcast for individuals with disabilities, recounting experiences and vision. JD Ross discusses the importance of inclusion for the disability community and outlines initiatives.
- Curbside Flowers - Oklahoma City
This episode features a conversation with Haley, the location manager at Curbside Flowers in Oklahoma City. The discussion focuses on their model for helping the homeless population.
- The Doctors Freeman - Trust
JD discusses where people place their trust. This episode features an on-location recording where JD met a couple who provided an answer to this question.
- Finding the Good - Curbside Apparel
This episode features an interview with Whitley O’Connor, manager of Curbside Apparel, a nonprofit T-shirt shop with a mission to end homelessness through supportive employment. The discussion covers how Curbside Apparel helps individuals…
- John Leary - Follow the Cairns
This episode features John Leary, who discusses how cairns, used by hikers to stay on track, can also be applied as a concept in business and life journeys.
- John Leary - Health Perspectives
John Leary, founder of Health Perspectives, discusses Medicare complexities. His company addresses the needs of a workforce with a growing percentage of people over 65.
- Domonique Boone - Leslie's Laundry Care
Domonique Boone, founder of Leslie's Laundry Care and a non-profit that provides sandwiches for the homeless, is interviewed on The Circle of the Panda Podcast. The discussion highlights the growth of her business.
- Marina Ivanov - Apex Transit Solutions
Marina Ivanov, Co-Founder and CEO of Apex Transit Solutions, shares her journey in the industry, leadership approach, and philosophy of respect. She exemplifies a growth mindset.
- Helping People Change Lives - Joe Dalton
Joe Dalton discusses his mission to help business owners and entrepreneurs transform their personal and professional lives. He draws on over 30 years of experience in sales, human behavior, and leadership to guide others toward their full…
- Paving the Future While Preserving the Past - Fort Gibson Oklahoma: James Walters
James Walters, Fort Gibson's Town Administrator, discusses how the town is "paving the future while preserving the past" on The Circle of the Panda Podcast. He shares insights into maintaining old-school values in a small town while embrac…
- You are Change - Danny Hall
JD and Danny Hall discuss the topic of change. Listen to "You are Change" on The Circle of the Panda Podcast.
- You are Unique - Danny Hall
This episode, titled "You are Unique," features JD from The Circle of the Panda Podcast. Listeners are invited to send messages to JD through a provided link.
- Christine Spagnolo - Live Life to the Fullest
Christine Spagnolo, a recruiter with 20 years of experience, discusses her work finding talent for various industries. She also coaches professionals on life design and assists recruiters in starting their own businesses. Spagnolo, a digit…
- You are Strong - Danny Hall
JD discusses the topic of strength. Listen to the episode to learn more.
- You are Needed - Danny Hall
This episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast is titled "You are Needed." It features JD discussing a message.
- You are Loved - Danny Hall
This episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast features a message from JD titled "You are Loved." Listen". Listen as JD shares a message of love with listeners.
- Hannah Keller - A Bright Future in Business
Hannah Keller, a sophomore at the University of South Carolina, is a repeat guest on The Circle of the Panda Podcast. She discusses her view on how to succeed in business at any age, providing helpful information for listeners.
- You are not Perfect - Danny Hall
In this episode, Danny Hall discusses his "You Are..." series, focusing on the idea that imperfection is a valuable and positive aspect of life. He addresses common concerns people have about not being perfect and explains why this can be…
- Steve Price and Fred Robinson - Senior Pro Pickleball
Fred Robinson and Steve Price discuss senior pro pickleball and the current state of the game. Fred Robinson is the founder of Body Helix, and Steve Price is a pastor and senior pro pickleball player.
- A Little Bit of Hope - Camp Blue Skies
JD shares his recent experience at Camp Blue Skies, highlighting its profound impact on his and others' perspectives on life and sense of hope.
- Fred Robinson - Mental Toughness
Fred Robinson, founder of Body Helix and former #2 ranked amateur tennis player, discusses the importance and application of mental toughness. He shares his insights and experiences related to the topic.
- Tom Barnes - Selkirk
Tom Barnes, Co-Owner and Director of R&D for Selkirk, joins the podcast. He discusses the founding principles, processes, and ongoing operations of Selkirk.
- The Power of Pickleball - Abby Sullivan
Abby Sullivan shares her experiences with pickleball. The episode also mentions Bethany Christian Services.
- The Power of Pickleball - Blake McMurray
Blake McMurray shares her experience with pickleball, highlighting its positive impact on her physical and mental well-being. She now helps others achieve similar improvements.
- How to Pray - Ann Harvey
In this episode, JD and Ann Harvey discuss the power of prayer and different ways to approach it. They explore the personal aspects of prayer.
- The Power of Pickleball - Julia Farella
In this episode of The Circle of the Panda Podcast, Julia Farella discusses her journey with pickleball. She shares how the sport helped her with depression and its impact on many people.