Welcome to a very special and bittersweet day. This is the series finale of Make Your Day Richer TV! It has been an incredible journey, and I wanted our final guest to be someone who truly embodies the spirit of honesty and finding purpose.
Now, many of you know Matt Check as a career musician with a catalog of amazing Americana and country rock albums. But he’s here today to talk about his new memoir, a book where he truly 'put it all out there'. It has one of the most unique premises I’ve ever seen: it's written as an imagined conversation with the legendary author Philip Roth.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Philip Roth Connection: Matthew explains the unique conceit of his memoir—an imagined conversation with the late, great Philip Roth.
Manhattan in the Mid-Aughts: We look back at the "cringe" and the struggle of his 20s.11 Years of Recovery: Matthew shares his journey through recovery and how he makes sense of past failures.
Finding the Humor: Why he used his father’s "ridiculous" sayings as a source of comic relief in an otherwise heavy story.
BIG NEWS TOMORROW ABOUT WHAT'S NEXT!
I am so excited to be talking with Hilary Momberger Powers. You might recognize her voice—she started her career at just five years old as the voice of Sally Brown in the Peanuts cartoons!
Hilary shares the fascinating story of her life, which she describes as a 'cauldron' or 'soup' filled with the good, the bad, and everything in between.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Early Years: What it was like to be a child voice actor for one of the most famous cartoon franchises in history.
The "Helga" Alter-Ego: Hilary explains her 'turbo' personality that she calls Helga and how she learned to embrace her.
Finding Gratitude: Why she spends every morning in bed practicing gratitude for even the smallest things.
Self-Acceptance: Why she stopped 'driving in the rearview mirror' and learned to love the woman she has become.
Jump into the chat and tell us your favorite Peanuts memory!
I'm sitting down with Jeffry Krafft, artist, educator, and creator of @thecompletepaintertv Jeffry shares his journey from teaching in galleries to producing his own public access TV show, and how a chance encounter led him to discover the magic of creating art for broadcast.Often compared to Bob Ross, Jeffry opens up about the challenges of living under that shadow, the reality of mistakes in painting, and why persistence—not perfection—is the true secret to creativity. He explains how layers, patience, and problem-solving transform a blank canvas into something extraordinary, and why anyone can learn to paint with the right guidance.From teaching at universities and art centers to hosting sip-and-paint nights, Jeffry’s mission is clear: to help people step away from screens, embrace the arts, and discover the joy of making something with their own hands.Stay tuned for insights on technique, creativity, and the life-changing power of picking up a brush.
Bonnie Clevering, legendary Hollywood hairstylist and author of "Continuity" is here! With a career spanning over 50 years and more than 120 film and television projects, Bonnie shares stories from her time at MGM Studios, her work with icons like Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Al Pacino, and even Elvis Presley, and the meticulous art of maintaining continuity on set. Bonnie opens up about her journey from Florida to Hollywood, the challenges of breaking into the union, and the creative spark that fueled her career. She recounts unforgettable moments—like nearly singeing Elvis’s famous pompadour and attending Priscilla Presley’s baby shower—that reveal the human side of life behind the camera. Her book "Continuity" explores not only the technical demands of hairstyling for film but also the deeper theme of continuity in life itself. Now at 84, Bonnie reflects on her legacy, her joy in seeing readers embrace her memoir, and her exciting new chapter as a film producer. Stay tuned until the end for a playful game of Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow—where Bonnie proves that even Hollywood legends love a good laugh.
Jacquelynn Wolfheart, the creative force behind Midnight Masquerade and the children’s album Bad Day Blues (released under her whimsical alter ego, Pixie Faerun) is here!
Jacquelynn opens up about her journey from writing poems and kids’ stories to transforming them into music, her unexpected path into recording two albums in just weeks, and the deeply personal inspirations behind her songs.
She shares how her background in psychology and storytelling shaped her children’s music, why one track reminded her of Taylor Swift, and how her supportive partner helped her embrace the dream of making art simply for joy. From love songs to trauma bonds, from playful fairy tales to empowering messages for kids, Jacquelynn’s work is all about connection, courage, and creativity.
Stay tuned until the end for a fun rapid-fire game of Sing or Fling—and discover why Wolfheart’s music is resonating with listeners of all ages.
I'm joined by author Norman Woolworth, who brings historical mystery to life with his latest book, The Bolden Cylinder! This book is the second in his Bruno Abelard series, set in New Orleans.
What we discuss:
Buddy Bolden: The fascinating, tragic figure known as 'the first jazz player' whose peak was at the turn of the 20th century, but who left no known recordings. We discuss how he rose to be known as 'King Bolden' before his life ended in a sanitarium.
The Book's Mystery: Norman explains how his character, the curmudgeonly antiques dealer Bruno Abelard, and a detective friend uncover the mystery surrounding Bolden.
Historical Mystery Genre: The conversation touches on how Norman uses flashbacks to historical points and makes the city of New Orleans a character unto itself.
BONUS: We play the game, "Jazz or Jive!"
Jump into the chat and let us know your favorite historical mystery!
I’m talking with my new friend, Ennis Pepper, who is doing incredible work with the Agape Dental Ministry.
Ennis explains why this nonprofit is so vital: it is the only standalone dental charity operating in Mecklenburg County. They provide comprehensive dental services to people who need care but cannot afford it or do not have insurance—all at no cost to the patient.
In this powerful conversation, we discuss:
The huge impact a simple smile can have, especially when people are seeking employment or need better confidence.
How Agape Dental Ministry is flexible with qualification requirements to ensure people who truly need the help receive it.
The urgent need for volunteer dentists (especially retired professionals!) to help them fulfill their mission.
How you can get involved by calling the executive administrator, Becky Faircloth.
Jump into the chat and thank Ennis for supporting such important work!
I'm joined by the incredibly fun and inspiring Merit Kahn, who is here to talk about her one-woman comedy show, Optimistic Personality Disorder!Merit shares the hilarious story of how she was inspired to put "write a one-woman comedy show" on her list of 50 things to do before turning 50. She describes the show as a way to look back at difficult parts of her life and rewrite them as a comedy set to change her future!We also discuss how Merit, who is primarily a keynote speaker for sales and leadership audiences, uses the stories and anecdotes from her comedy sets in her business programs. Plus, she tells us about the timeline exercise she leads in her programs to help others turn their own challenges into new possibilities.Jump into the chat and let us know what part of your story you would turn into a comedy set!
Ray Scott from Greater Things Ministry is discussing his ambitious holiday mission: to provide every foster child in South Carolina with a brand-new pair of shoes . Ray shares his goal to raise over $240,000 to give 3,500 kids a $65 shopping pass to Shoe Show, ensuring each child gets to choose the shoes they want and own something that is truly theirs . Find out how you can help them hit their December 20th deadline at greaterthingsministry.com .
THEN
Richard Moon is talking about his historical fantasy novel, To Conquer Death. Richard explains the massive global event that inspired his book: the mysterious Bronze Age Collapse . He shares his transition from screenwriting to novel writing, stating that his latest idea was simply "too big" for a script, and how this shift has allowed him to build a more expansive world.
Ian Spandow, co-founder of Spandow House Dog Rescue in Northern California, is here!. What began as a passion for fostering has grown into a sanctuary for high-care dogs—those often overlooked or deemed “unadoptable.” Ian shares how he and his wife transformed their nine-acre countryside home into a haven where over 250 dogs have found healing, hope, and forever families.You'll learn:- The origins of Spandow House and Ian’s lifelong connection to dogs- Stories of resilience, including how some dogs “choose” their adopters- The challenges of running a rescue with limited resources and high veterinary costs- How social media and community support fuel adoptions and awareness- Ian’s book "Rescuing Dogs and Salespeople", a memoir that blends his career highs and lows with lessons learned from rescue workThis episode is a moving reminder of the impact one family can make when they dedicate themselves to compassion. Whether you’re a dog lover, an aspiring rescuer, or simply someone who believes in leaving the world better than you found it, Ian’s story will inspire you to act with heart.
I'm making slime with educator and founder Jayme Diehl to explore the remarkable evolution of Smart Diehl Academy. What began as a small tutoring center in 2023 has blossomed into a nonprofit private school serving over 70 students with flexible, hybrid programs and a nature-based curriculum right here in Mint Hill, NC and the surrounding area. Jayme shares candid reflections on the challenges of leadership, the joy of lifelong learning, and the creativity sparked by her students—including their entrepreneurial slime business!
Jayme an I chat about:
- The Academy’s growth from tutoring to nonprofit private school
- How flexible models support homeschool and hybrid learners
- The importance of delegation and building a supportive team
- Student-led innovation, like the slime business and enrichment classes
- Smart Fest 2026, the Academy’s annual fundraiser and family celebration
This episode is a celebration of courage, creativity, and community impact. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or entrepreneur, Jayme’s journey will leave you inspired to keep learning and keep building.
I'm checking in with nonprofit leader Deanna Terry to celebrate an incredible year of growth and impact at KeyStep, a non-profit dedicated to guiding foster youth toward independence.
The founder shares the success stories of the young people they serve—from graduating high school and earning their GEDs to starting college, landing better jobs, and attending therapy. We discuss why the community's support has been 'humbling' and personally healing for the founder, who didn't realize how much she still needed to heal from her own past experience.
We also dive into KeyStep's unique approach to support: their food and essentials pantry, located in Indian Trail, is not a giveaway. Instead, youth must commit to a Goal Plan—whether that's studying for a driver's license, attending therapy, or sending a picture of a meal they cooked. It's a system built on respect for their journey to independence.
In this episode, we discuss:
The importance of non-profits being specific about their needs to better serve the youth.
Successes in education, employment, and mental health (with five youth currently in therapy).
How the community stepped up to provide specific items—from laptops to Native brand body wash for sensitive skin.
How listeners can help meet their most urgent needs right now (toilet paper, snacks, and cleaning supplies).
I'm honored to be joined by Robert J. Wolf, author of the four-time award-winning biography, Not a Real Enemy: The True Story of a Hungarian Jewish Man's Fight for Freedom.
Robert shares the incredible true story of his father's life—a Hungarian Jewish man who became a four-time escape artist, miraculously surviving both the brutality of Nazi-occupied Hungary and the repressive Communist regime of 1956. This gripping biography is a testament to the human will to survive, the devastating trauma of war and political oppression, and the ultimate path to redemption.
Robert discusses the seven-year journey he took to convert his parents' autobiography into this vital book. We explore the powerful, urgent message this story holds for today's world, serving as a crucial tool in the ongoing fight against anti-Semitism and hatred.
In this episode, we discuss:
The true accounts of surviving two repressive 20th-century regimes.
How Robert's background as a Radiologist influenced his dedication to the 'preservation of life' in his writing.
The lasting impact of intergenerational trauma and the possibility of redemption.
Why his father's story is so relevant to the current global climate.
I'm with author Nkrumah Mensah for an inspiring conversation about turning personal challenges and big life changes into captivating fantasy fiction.
Nkrumah shares her deeply personal journey from being severely dyslexic and not reading as a child to becoming a published author, carrying on a family tradition of oral storytelling. She reveals how her passion project turned into a full book series, including her latest, Anne of Survivors.
We also discuss a major new chapter in her life: becoming an empty nester as her youngest graduates in May. Hear why she's ready to sell the house she's lived in for 17 years and is exploring a potential move to places like New Zealand or Japan.
In this episode:
*How her family, especially her "voracious reader" daughter, pushed her to publish her first novel.
*The writing process where her characters often take control and "totally trash" her plot lines.
*Why becoming a mother forced her to rewrite parts of her first book to be "kinder to the parents".
*The excitement and uncertainty of planning a move after 17 years in Greensboro.
What happens when you take the road less traveled in the Land of Oz?
Join me for a fascinating conversation with Carlos Perez, the author of the new book, THE OTHER ROAD. Carlos shares the inspiration behind his Young Adult novel, which explores the untold stories of Oz and answers the question: where did all those other roads from the start of the Yellow Brick Road go?
We dive into Carlos's unique background as a dedicated educator and talented musician, and how his diverse creative life fuels his imaginative writing. This episode is a must-listen for fans of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked, and anyone who believes the greatest adventures lie just beyond the familiar path.
In this episode, we discuss:
The moment of inspiration that led to the creation of The Other Road.
How his background as an educator and musician influences his storytelling.
The enduring legacy of The Wizard of Oz and its power to inspire new narratives.
Details on his upcoming nine-city book tour.
I'm joined by David Tunstall, CPA and head of The Tunstall Organization, and he is making finances approachable! David shares the incredible (and hilarious) origin story of how he named his business after a successful New York organization when he started in 2002!
What we discuss:
The Core Services: David breaks down the fundamentals of his work: taxes, bookkeeping, and payroll.
Going Deeper: Moving beyond the basics, David explains how he helps business owners use financial analysis—looking at P&L statements and balance sheets—to understand the drivers behind their revenue and make smart decisions.
Client Focus: While he primarily works with businesses (ideally over $1 million in revenue), he also provides personal tax preparation services for high-income W-2 earners.
Expertise: David is experienced and licensed to file taxes in all 50 states!
BONUS: We play the game, "Write Off or Rip Off"!
Jump into the chat and ask David your burning finance questions!
I am thrilled to welcome local entrepreneur, dog-lover and nonprofit founder, Jackie Adams, to the show!
Jackie recognized that shelters are at or over capacity nationwide. She developed a brilliant, innovative solution: a guest house where visitors can rent a room and, if they wish, learn about the full realities of dog fostering.
We discuss how her venture, which is the only one in the US offering dog fostering outreach and education in a guest house setting, creates an immersive learning space for the community to see firsthand "what it takes, the good, the bad, the ugly".
We also chat about her plan to go out to schools to promote shelter jobs and fostering to the next generation and her new children's book series based on the lessons kids can learn from foster dogs!
Joining me today is the powerhouse duo behind the book HEALTHY EATING ADVENTURE: Chef Nick Iula and Dr. Elizabeth George! This conversation is absolutely packed with life-changing information.
We dive into the science behind why a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle leads to amazing results—not just in cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes, but also in improving sleep, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Liz explains how the book reviews the Standard American Diet and why this lifestyle is "not just woo woo, this is real, this is how our body works".
And you have to hear Chef Nick's story: He dropped 80 pounds and reversed severe conditions like gout, acid reflux, and sleep apnea—all in the first few months. He credits this lifestyle with saving his life!
Join the chat and let us know what plant-based dish you are excited to try!
This chat with the incredibly talented Dennis Welch is one of those that warms your soul! If you haven't heard his album, Strong, you need to—it is one of the most personal and moving records I have ever heard.
Today, we're talking about his powerful approach to songwriting: he explains how he strives to 'say for people what they don't know how to say for themselves' and why his focus is on creating uplifting conversations, not chasing charts. You'll want to hear his take on what true success looks like for an artist.
Jump into the chat and let us know which song from Strong is your favorite! ❤️
I'm kicking off the week with a guest whose music is exactly what we all need: high-energy, positive, and genuinely motivational! He is the one and only Tony Saint Tone!
I am obsessed with his music and how good I feel when I listen to it. Today, Tony shares the fascinating origin of his sound. He reveals how he used to listen to classic motivational speakers like Zig Ziglar and Tony Robbins, and he decided to ask one question: "How can I get these messages into a song?".
We'll talk about that creative journey, the power of putting positive messages on repeat, and how you can use his music to keep your motivation high every single day.
Join the live stream and let us know your favorite motivational song! 👇