Amy Newmark, publisher and editor-in-chief of Chicken Soup for the Soul, shares how stories can inspire, heal, and transform our lives. We talk about forgiveness, gratitude, synchronicities, and the kinds of stories the world needs most right now.
The Chicken Soup For The Soul Website
The Chicken Soup For The Soul Podcast
Try OfferingTree for free, plus 50% off your first three months or 15% off your first year with my link here. (My sponsor)
Download your free SEO Checklist for yoga instructors & entrepreneurs
Follow me on instagram:
Come on my Costa Rica yoga retreat in January 2026:
https://www.shawnakru.com/sweet-simplicity-retreat
Time Stamps:
00:00 intro
02:06 the power of stories
04:32 where does your interest in human stories come from?
06:35 finding chicken soup for the soul
10:54 how did working on wall street shape your path?
13:03 entering the publishing world
14:57 change your habits, change your life
15:58 the editing process
18:31 the best stories will make you feel something
19:59 you have a to-do list, but do you have a to-enjoy list?
22:01 do you ever feel self-help overwhelm or advice-overwhelm?
23:02 a gratitude practice can change your life
24:22 the power of forgiveness
25:37 if you’re convinced you have a good story: keep submitting
28:11 what kinds of stories do you think the world needs the most right now?
32:07 “pre-forgiveness”
33:36 the freedom of letting go of resentment
35:25 what do you think is happening when we read a story that sets us free?
37:20 the chicken soup for the soul podcast
39:55 consistency in creative work
42:17 have you included any of your own stories in the books?
44:21 a flat tire and the power of positive thinking
46:00 a synchronicity story: the family reunion
49:21 what makes an exceptional leader?
51:54 what’s your greatest joy?
52:58 billboard question