Fate vs. DestinyIs What It Is What It Is? Aired on Monday, December 22, 9AM   In this episode of the Up and Running Morning Show, host Rick chats with Caroline Phipps, founder of Living with Inner Elegance, about the big, timely topic of fate versus destiny. As the winter solstice and holiday season approach, they explore how people interpret the circumstances they’re born into, whether life is fixed by fate, or whether we can shape our own destiny through choices and actions. Caroline and Rick unpack definitions and contrasts—fate as what happens to us and destiny as what we do with it—bringing in thoughtful quotes (including Voltaire), historical examples (Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela), and complex cases like the Dalai Lama and the dangerous side of delusional destiny seen in figures such as Hitler, Stalin, and Jim Jones. The conversation moves to practical: how to influence your future, build emotional self-discipline, and create space between events and reactions. Caroline offers steps listeners can practice—pausing before reacting, strengthening the mental “muscle” of response, cultivating kindness and conscience, and choosing actions that uplift others. Rick and Caroline emphasize empathy, responsibility, and mindful choices as ways to transcend challenging circumstances. Listeners can expect an uplifting, reflective discussion with real-life examples, gentle guidance for holiday stress and relationships, and actionable tips for developing resilience and purpose. Caroline shares seasonal plans and ways to connect—she’ll be visiting the Renaissance Rehabilitation Center in Staatsburg, NY, on Christmas Day—and invites listeners to reach her at caroline@carolinephipps.com or explore archives at carolinephipps.com for past episodes and resources.   carolinephipps.com

Join Rick on the Up and Running Morning Show (98.1 KZE) for a thoughtful Thanksgiving-week conversation with monthly guest Caroline Phipps. In this episode, Caroline explores the surprising rise of boredom despite the constant access to information and entertainment, and offers practical insight into how solitude, reflection, and choice can become powerful tools for creativity and well‑being. Topics covered include the paradox of being more connected but less inspired, the social psychologist Timothy Wilson’s study showing people would rather electrocute themselves than sit quietly, the differences between childhood and adult responses to boredom, and the dangers of always reacting to external stimulation. Caroline and Rick discuss how overscheduling and instant gratification can create restlessness, and why making time to sit quietly — even briefly — helps people reconnect, spark ideas, and make better choices. The episode also highlights parenting challenges around “I’m bored,” practical strategies for turning boredom into productive time (from picking up a pen to using drive time for reflection), and the bigger theme that we are our greatest resource — every thought, word, and choice matters. Caroline emphasizes the value of connection, collaboration, and creativity as antidotes to boredom and encourages using quiet moments for inward work and inspired action. Caroline Phipps appears monthly on the show; listeners can explore archived chats and resources at CarolinePhipps.com. For a chance at a complimentary consultation, Caroline sometimes offers one to a listener; email caroline@carolinephipps.com. Tune in for compassionate guidance on living with inner elegance, practical tips to reduce restlessness, and ideas to make everyday moments more meaningful. Key Insights and Conclusions Boredom is paradoxically rising despite unprecedented access to information and entertainment. Meaningful human connection and creativity are crucial antidotes to boredom, more so than instant digital gratification. Avoidance of introspection contributes to restlessness and poor decision-making during boredom. Quiet, unstructured time fosters creativity, self-awareness, and constructive choices. Recognizing one’s own inner resources and the power of choice is vital for overcoming boredom and enhancing life quality. Communication and interaction carry significant power in shaping personal and collective well-being. Study Aspect Details Researcher Timothy Wilson Published In Science magazine, July 2014 Recommendations from the Discussion Embrace moments of boredom and quiet to connect with oneself. Use boredom as a tool to generate creativity and solve problems. Resist the urge for constant digital distractions and instant gratification. Recognize the power of choice in shaping experiences and relationships. Foster meaningful human connections to enrich life and combat restlessness. Explore holistic health resources, such as those offered by Caroline Phipps, for guidance on Living With Inner Elegance. Caroline Phippswww.carolinephipps.com

Limited Resources?Nurturing Resilience and Connection.Summary In this insightful episode of the Up and Running Morning Show on 98.1 WKZE, host Rick engages in a profound discussion with Caroline Phipps, founder of Living with Inner Elegance, about leveraging non-material resources to enrich our lives. They explore how inner strengths such as creativity, communication, courage, and caring serve as invaluable assets in navigating feelings of scarcity and worry. Caroline emphasizes the importance of relationships, kindness, and gratitude as powerful forces that shape our communities and personal well-being. Key takeaways include conducting a self-inventory to uncover hidden internal and relational strengths, prioritizing positive interactions, and cultivating generosity to build reputation, trust, and goodwill. Caroline also invites listeners to her upcoming “Keeping Your Sanity” workshop and highlights local cultural events, encouraging community engagement and personal growth. Overall, this episode inspires listeners to recognize and mobilize their inner and social capital to overcome stress and create meaningful connections. Watch the Zoom Broadcast of Keeping Your Sanity Here:  Highlights 🌟 Inner strengths like creativity and courage are vital non-material resources. 🤝 Relationships and kindness act as powerful tools for community and personal growth. 🌱 Overcoming scarcity thinking fosters positivity and resilience. 💡 Performing a self-inventory helps uncover hidden resources beyond possessions. 💬 Positive daily choices create upward momentum in interactions. 🎉 Upcoming “Keeping Your Sanity” workshop offers practical strategies for wellbeing. 🎬 Local arts events, including film festivals, nurture cultural connection and engagement. Key Insights 🌿 Inner Strengths as Lifelines: Caroline highlights creativity, communication, courage, and caring as essential inner resources that help individuals thrive despite external limitations. These strengths provide resilience and empower meaningful action, reminding us that true wealth lies within. 🤲 The Priceless Power of Relationships: Relationships are portrayed not as burdens but as vital resources. Trust, goodwill, and reputation built through consistent kindness generate a ripple effect, enhancing both individual and communal well-being in ways material wealth cannot replicate. 💭 Transforming Scarcity Thinking: Scarcity mindset, often fueled by fear and worry, can be overcome by shifting focus to abundance found in everyday interactions and inner capacities. This mental shift creates a positive feedback loop that nurtures hope and opportunity. 🔎 Self-Inventory for Hidden Assets: Conducting self-reflection to identify non-material resources such as talents, supportive relationships, and emotional strengths enables individuals to tap into reservoirs of power they may have overlooked. This awareness is foundational to personal growth. 🌞 Choosing Positivity Daily: Every interaction is a chance to choose positivity and generosity, which cumulatively builds momentum toward more supportive and joyful environments. Small acts of kindness amplify and contribute to a thriving community fabric. 🛠 Practical Workshops for Sanity: Caroline’s “Keeping Your Sanity” workshop embodies the translation of these ideas into actionable strategies, offering participants tools to manage stress and cultivate inner peace within supportive community settings. 🎥 Cultural Engagement Fosters Connection: Highlighting local arts events, including film festivals, reinforces the idea that cultural participation enriches our social resource pool and strengthens communal bonds, vital for emotional and psychological health. Outline Introduction to the episode and host Rick’s guest, Caroline Phipps Exploration of non-material resources sustaining individuals Discussion on inner strengths: creativity, communication, courage, caring The significance of relationships, kindness, and gratitude as community res

Summary In this conversation, Caroline Phipps, founder of Living With Inner Elegance, and Rick Schneider, host of the Up and Running Morning Show at WKZE 98.1 FM, explore the powerful concept of resourcefulness as a key to navigating boredom, scarcity, and life’s uncertainties. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, as well as cultural examples like the creation of Motown, Caroline and Rick highlight how creativity, courage, and proactive action enable individuals to thrive even in challenging conditions. They emphasize that resourcefulness is not about having abundant resources but rather about making the most of what you have with confidence and faith. Caroline's upcoming resilience workshop will offer practical strategies to cultivate this mindset, helping people adapt, recover, and grow stronger in today’s changing world. This dialogue encourages listeners to take action, share resources, and foster community, reinforcing the remarkable capacity of human beings for innovation and support. Key Insights and Takeaways Resourcefulness is a critical skill for overcoming boredom, scarcity, and major life challenges. Scarcity can enhance creativity and problem-solving rather than hinder it. Taking leaps of faith—acting despite imperfect conditions—is essential to unlocking resourcefulness and attracting new opportunities. Collaboration with others and sharing resources amplifies impact and builds community resilience. Historical and contemporary examples prove that resourcefulness fuels innovation and success, even from modest beginnings. Current global and economic shifts heighten the need for flexible, creative, and resourceful mindsets. Building resourcefulness requires courage, confidence, and proactive action. Support networks and coaching (such as Caroline’s workshop and sessions) can help develop resilience and resourcefulness. Definitions and Concepts Term Definition/Explanation Resourcefulness The ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties using what is available. Resilience The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness, closely linked to resourcefulness. Scarcity Limited availability of resources, which can drive creativity and innovation. Leap of Faith Taking action despite uncertainty or fear, trusting that solutions and support will emerge.   Caroline PhippsLiving With Inner Elegancecarolinephipps.com  

Pay Attention! What Distracts You?Aired on August 28th, 2025 Summary In this insightful conversation on the Up and Running Morning Show, hosted by Rick Schneider and Caroline Phipps, the founder of Living with Inner Elegance delves into the critical issue of attention in the modern age. She highlights how the overwhelming influx of information and constant digital distractions have made attention a rare and valuable resource. Drawing on the work of the economist Herbert Simon, Caroline explains that as information overload increases, our capacity to focus and prioritize what truly matters diminishes. The discussion examines the risks of overstimulation, addictive tendencies, and desensitization resulting from incessant scrolling and digital engagement, which can hinder genuine human connection and creativity. Caroline urges listeners to assess their distractions, prioritize meaningful tasks, and reconnect with their inner creativity. The conversation also explores the therapeutic benefits of horses in fostering authentic relationships and announces upcoming workshops and events designed to promote resilience and wellness. Overall, Caroline inspires listeners to consciously reclaim their attention, nurture their creativity, and foster kindness and community for a more connected and fulfilling life. Highlights 📱 The modern world bombards us with unprecedented information, making attention a scarce and precious resource. 🎯 Prioritizing what to pay attention to shapes both our personal and collective realities. 🧠 Overstimulation and digital distractions can desensitize us and impair meaningful connections. 🎵 Creativity flourishes when we disconnect from distractions and tune into our own unique gifts. 🐴 Horses offer a powerful metaphor and practical tool for authenticity and emotional awareness. 💡 Assessing and managing distractions is essential for mental well-being and productivity. 🌟 Building resilience through community and kindness enhances both individual and collective growth Key Insights 🌍 Information Overload Threatens Attention: In a world saturated with data and opinions, our ability to focus becomes fragmented. Herbert Simon’s insight from the 1970s remains profoundly relevant today, emphasizing that attention—not information—is the true currency of our time. This scarcity challenges us to develop intentional focus strategies to avoid being overwhelmed. 🎯 The Power of Prioritization: What we choose to pay attention to directly shapes our experience of reality and influences the kind of world we create collectively. By consciously directing our focus, we exercise agency over our emotional and mental landscapes, enabling purposeful living. 📵 Digital Distractions Erode Authentic Connection: The habitual checking of phones—averaging over 200 times daily—fractures our presence, undermining genuine communication and human connection. This erosion of direct interaction risks fostering isolation despite the illusion of constant connectivity. 🔄 Desensitization and Addiction Cycle: Continuous digital stimulation leads to craving the next “hit” of information, which not only distracts but also dulls our sensitivity to important issues. This cycle can be exploited to divert attention from critical matters, echoing the “bread and circuses” strategy from ancient Rome to pacify societies. 🎨 Creativity Requires Stillness and Focus: True creative expression emerges when we unplug from external noise and engage deeply with our inner selves. Overconsumption of media often results in repetitive and derivative outputs, whereas solitude and intentionality enable originality and authentic contributions. 🐎 Horses as Emotional Mirrors: The equine ability to instantly read human intent serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity. Their perceptiveness can help individuals, including veterans and healthcare workers, cultivate genuine relationships and emotional resilience. 🌱 Resilience and Community as Antidotes

Aired on July 24, 2025 Summary The conversation on the 98.1 KZE Up and Running Morning Show between host Rick and guest Caroline Phipps, founder of Living with Inner Elegance and holistic health counselor, explores the complex and powerful emotion of shame. They discuss the deep-rooted role of shame in human psychology, social cohesion, and cultural history. Shame is described as one of the most intense and low-level emotions because it threatens social connection, which is crucial for human survival. The dialogue explores the origins of shame in early human societies, where it served as a mechanism for maintaining group cohesion and survival by discouraging behavior that could lead to ostracism. They also examine how shame is embedded in religious teachings, such as the Biblical story of Adam and Eve, where shame arises as a consequence of moral transgression but can be alleviated through confession or redemption. Furthermore, they highlight the dual nature of shame: while it can guide moral behavior, it can also be weaponized to divide and marginalize groups on the basis of differences such as race or sexual preference. This weaponization of shame fosters social division and polarization rather than unity. Caroline emphasizes the importance of understanding whether feelings of shame are justified (rooted in one’s own actions) or externally imposed without basis, as this distinction is critical for personal well-being. She advocates moving away from shaming others, as it isolates and alienates people, and instead encourages seeking common ground and connection. The conversation concludes with a call for self-reflection on the motives behind shaming others, urging restraint to avoid contributing further to societal division and to promote a more just and peaceful world. Caroline also shares ways to connect with her for further discussion and directs listeners to her website and YouTube channel for additional resources and content, including a podcast featuring Divine G. Whitfield, which includes theatrical performances.   Highlights 💡 Shame is one of the most intense and low-level emotions because it threatens social connection, essential for survival. 🌍 Shame historically evolved to maintain social cohesion by discouraging behavior that might lead to ostracization from the group. 📜 The concept of shame is deeply embedded in religious and moral teachings worldwide, such as the Biblical story of Adam and Eve. ⚔️ Shame can be weaponized to divide groups, creating social polarization and marginalization. 🤔 Differentiating between justified internal shame and externally imposed shame is vital for emotional well-being. 💬 Shaming others rarely leads to positive change; it isolates and entrenches behaviors rather than resolving conflicts. 🌱 Encouraging connection and understanding over shame promotes healing and a more peaceful society.   This interview with Caroline Phipps offers a nuanced exploration of shame, prompting listeners to reflect on their own experiences and interactions with shame, thereby promoting emotional health and social harmony. Caroline Phippscarolinephipps.com  

Aired on June 26th, 2025ENTITLEDUNDERSTANDING YOUR PRIVILEGE The Up and Running Morning Show on 98.1 KZE featured Caroline Phipps, a recurring guest, discussing the complex topic of entitlement. Caroline explores how entitlement manifests both individually and historically, influencing social dynamics, environmental degradation, and personal relationships. She reflects on the evolution of societal attitudes, contrasting the duty-bound “Greatest Generation” with the self-focused “Me Generation” of the 1970s, which emphasized individualism and personal expression but sometimes led to excessive self-centeredness. Caroline highlights the pitfalls of feeling entitled, including damaged relationships and persistent disappointment, urging listeners to cultivate gratitude and community-mindedness instead. She cautions against believing in special treatment, emphasizing that the universe operates on collective existence rather than individual entitlement. Caroline also shares an upcoming podcast project and offers free coaching sessions, inviting listeners to explore her work further through her website. The conversation blends philosophical insights with practical advice, encouraging self-awareness and empathy. Highlights Caroline Phipps returns monthly to discuss thought-provoking topics on the Up and Running Morning Show. Entitlement is examined as a historical and contemporary phenomenon with far-reaching social and environmental implications. The contrast between the selfless “Greatest Generation” and the self-focused “Me Generation” highlights changes in societal values. Excessive entitlement leads to disappointment, damaged relationships, and a fractured sense of community. Gratitude and sharing are proposed as antidotes to the negative effects of entitlement. Caroline promotes an upcoming podcast featuring John Divine G. Whitfield, related to the film Sing Sing. Listeners are invited to connect with Caroline for free coaching sessions and explore her extensive archives online. Conclusion Caroline Phipps’s conversation on entitlement provides a nuanced exploration of a pervasive and often misunderstood concept. By combining historical analysis, generational perspectives, psychological insights, and practical advice, she offers a comprehensive view that challenges listeners to reconsider their assumptions about privilege and special rights. Her emphasis on gratitude, community, and interconnectedness serves as a powerful corrective to the divisive effects of entitlement, opening a path toward greater empathy and collective well-being. Through ongoing engagement and resources, Caroline supports her audience in applying these principles to their daily lives, making her contributions both intellectually rich and deeply practical.   carolinephipps.com Follow me on Substack

Caroline Phipps and Deborah Kelly lead a discussion on resilience, redefining it as more than just bouncing back—it’s about adapting, transforming, and self-reflection. They address modern challenges like fear, uncertainty, and societal pressures, especially for younger generations. The conversation highlights the importance of community, supportive relationships, and shared stories, including the inspiring case of John Devine G. Whitfield, who transformed his life through inner strength while wrongfully incarcerated. The hosts encourage listeners to cultivate resilience through reflection, authentic fulfillment, and connections, inviting them to future events for personal growth and empowerment at Wisdom House Retreat.

What does it really mean to be resilient when life throws curveballs your way? On a recent episode of the Up and Running Morning Show with Rick on 98.1 KZE, Caroline Phipps—founder of Living with Inner Elegance—dives into this question with her guest, Divine G. Whitfield. Divine’s story is nothing short of extraordinary: wrongfully incarcerated for 25 years, he embraced the arts to not only survive but thrive, turning his pain into purpose and inspiring others to do the same. Through heartfelt conversation, the show uncovers practical wisdom for building resilience and spotlights what’s possible when you choose to rise above your circumstances. If you’re searching for real-life inspiration and actionable strategies to handle life’s toughest moments, this episode delivers.

In 2011, I produced a play at Woodbourne Correctional Facility with Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA). There, I met John Divine “G” Whitfield, who was wrongfully imprisoned for twenty-five years. Despite his situation, he earned degrees and published books, showing great resilience. His story raises important questions about overcoming challenges and maintaining balance in life. Resilience requires a strong sense of self and purpose. Divine demonstrates this by helping others and understanding the impact of his actions. Divine’s background in the performing arts helped RTA succeed, with a recidivism rate of less than three percent. After his release in 2012, he worked for his exoneration and toured with a rap star. He even received an Oscar nomination. His journey shows the power of resilience and its ability to transform lives.

Aired on May 2, 2025Welcome to the "Wisdom with Inner Elegance Roundtable Series," where hosts Deborah Kelly, Executive Director of the Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, and Caroline Phipps, founder of Living with Inner Elegance, take you on an enlightening journey in these turbulent times. This episode explores how individuals worldwide unite against injustice, inspiring a global movement of peace and community despite the chaos. Caroline shares her observations on the growing phenomenon of people coming together, transcending specific causes, and advocating for one another in peaceful resistance. This global solidarity is analyzed through both scientific and spiritual lenses, touching upon Isaac Newton's laws of motion and the philosophies of karma and Christian teachings. The episode delves into the power of truth, the contagious nature of courage and kindness, and the role of technology in mobilizing communities worldwide. Historical anecdotes highlight how figures like Mahatma Gandhi used non-violent resistance to inspire mass movements and challenge powerful empires. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their power and live intentionally, fostering unity and empathy. The discussion highlights the simplicity of truth and the exhausting complexity of sustaining untruths, offering insights into the importance of standing up for justice and equality. Don't miss the chance to join Caroline Phipps for an inspiring live program at Wisdom House on May 13th, and explore more resources on living with inner elegance at carolinephipps.com. Stay connected with Wisdom House at wisdomhouse.org for updates and inspiring programs to uplift your spirit.

If you’re searching for a fresh perspective on living with truth, peace, and community, the latest episode of the Up and Running Morning Show on 98.1 KZE is a must-listen. Host Rick welcomes Caroline Phipps, founder of ‘Living with Inner Elegance,’ for a heartfelt conversation that weaves together personal stories, timeless wisdom, and practical guidance. From the enduring message of John Lennon’s “Give Peace a Chance” to the subtle art of horsemanship as a metaphor for human connection, Caroline’s insights invite us to rethink how we relate to ourselves and others. Whether you’re curious about mindfulness, drawn to stories of historical changemakers, or simply looking for tools to keep your sanity amid life’s chaos, this episode offers a transformative journey—sprinkled with plenty of laughter along the way.

Caroline Phipps explores how truth and community can overcome division and injustice, using examples like the Berlin Wall and Gandhi’s non-violent movement to show the power of unified, peaceful action. She stresses that deceit and division can’t last, and that aligning with universal truths leads to unity and justice. Caroline urges listeners to recognize the impact of their choices, act with integrity and courage, and stay grounded in spiritual values. The episode encourages reflection on how each person contributes to building a just, connected world.

Caroline Phipps and Deborah Kelly discuss how to navigate a rapidly changing, chaotic world by building resilience, fostering community, and encouraging interfaith dialogue. They highlight the Wisdom House as a peaceful space for people of all backgrounds to come together, learn, and grow. The episode addresses the challenges posed by technology and fast-paced living, and stresses the importance of kindness and the far-reaching impact of positive actions. Caroline and Deborah also explore the role of younger generations in driving social and environmental progress, calling for greater unity and connectivity to create a more harmonious future. Listeners are invited to engage with the Wisdom House community and join upcoming workshops.

Caroline Phipps interviews Jane Strong, co-founder of The Equus Effect Program, about how horse-assisted learning helps veterans, first responders, and healthcare workers find healing and meaning. Jane describes how her program uses horses’ intuitive nature to teach trust, leadership, and authenticity, helping participants build stronger, more genuine relationships. The conversation covers Jane’s journey from horse riding to developing this therapeutic approach, and highlights how The Equus Effect addresses issues like loneliness and mistrust by fostering connection and personal growth. The program is also expanding to support children and others seeking stress relief and self-improvement.

Discover practical strategies for resilience and personal growth in uncertain times with 98.1 KZE’s Up and Running Morning Show. Host Rick and Caroline Phipps of Living with Inner Elegance share insights on mindfulness, community, and emotional strength. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiring stories.

Caroline Phipps uses this episode of ”Living with Inner Elegance” to reflect on how chaos can spark growth and transformation. She critiques society’s focus on materialism and constant acquisition, linking it to widespread loneliness and mental health struggles. Drawing from her personal journey, Caroline urges listeners to build resilience, focus on their sphere of influence, and act in ways that foster positive change. Her message centers on empowerment, collective action, and finding inner peace during turbulent times, inviting listeners to join her in creating a more just and connected world.

Caroline Phipps, in this episode of ”Living with Inner Elegance,” addresses the struggle to stay sane in a chaotic, globally connected world. She warns against “weapons of mass distraction” that spread cynicism and division, urging listeners to stay aware of manipulative information overload. Caroline emphasizes our interconnectedness and the power of individual and collective action, drawing on spiritual wisdom and leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. She encourages balance, avoiding both apathy and hyper-vigilance, and recommends practical steps: staying informed, building positive connections, and making a difference through small acts of kindness. Ultimately, Caroline calls listeners to focus on achievable impacts, use their personal power for good, and recognize the lasting effect of even modest, compassionate actions.

Caroline Phipps and Rick Schneider discuss how to maintain mental well-being during harsh winter months, particularly focusing on issues like isolation and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Drawing inspiration from John Steinbeck and Martin Luther King, they highlight unity and love as essential tools for overcoming winter blues. The conversation touches on the pandemic’s and technology’s effects on social connection, emphasizing the importance of personal outreach and small acts of kindness. Caroline encourages listeners to use the arrival of spring as a time for renewal and to foster real-life connections, inspiring community support and collective compassion. The episode concludes with a call to create safe, supportive spaces and includes an offer for a free coaching session.

Caroline encourages a more meaningful approach to New Year’s resolutions by focusing on nurturing the human spirit and practicing kindness, rather than pursuing traditional goals like weight loss or saving money. Inspired by Jimmy Carter, she stresses prioritizing compassion and spiritual growth. The episode urges listeners to reframe challenges as learning opportunities and to set resolutions that support others and foster personal growth. Stories of community support, like LA musicians helped by Guitar Center, illustrate the impact of unity and service. Caroline invites further connection and offers a free coaching session, promoting ongoing personal and spiritual development for the year ahead.