If you’ve ever felt stuck in your story or wondered how your everyday struggles could become creative fuel, this episode is for you. I sat down with Lara Luna, author of Trailer Park Angel and host of the Trailer Park Angel Podcast, to talk about turning real-life experiences — even fear, suffering, and strange signs from the universe — into art that heals. You’ll hear how meditation and humor help Lara approach heavy topics in a light-hearted way, and why embracing your “weirdness” can actually bring people together. Two things you’ll take away: First, how to transform negativity, personal setbacks, and even family drama into source material for your writing, instead of letting it hold you back. Second, why starting small, like with the right notebook or pen, makes it easier to begin sharing your story. If you’re curious about mixing spirituality, creativity, and a bit of laughter into your writing, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here — plus tips for staying joyful and authentic while you create.
Connect With Lara Luna
Website: https://laralunacreations.com
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome, National Novel Writing Month
00:24 Introducing Lara Luna
01:26 Real-life to Story Awakening
03:11 Helping Others Leave Suffering
04:07 Storytelling as Spiritual Practice
06:05 Healing Through Meditation
08:35 Choosing Love Over Fear
10:24 Owning Your Weirdness
11:21 Embracing Our Differences
12:03 Connecting at One Table
12:37 Signs Worth Writing About
13:53 Channeling Your Higher Self
15:00 Humor and Handling Heavy Topics
17:05 Advice for New Writers
18:44 Turn Negativity Into Story Fuel
22:05 Transmuting Pain Into Joy
25:38 Acts of Kindness Chain Reaction
28:29 Where to Find Lara’s Work
29:31 Wrap Up and Next Steps
If you’ve ever wondered how stress, trauma, and emotional wellbeing really tie into chronic health conditions like diabetes, this episode is for you. I’m talking with Magic Barclay, who openly shares her personal journey navigating life after major health diagnoses—and how she went beyond just managing symptoms to find deeper healing.
In this conversation, you’ll hear why it’s so important to look for root causes when something feels off in your body (and how to spot early warning signs your doctors might overlook). Magic also unpacks the PNEI of trauma—a tongue-twister framework—that explains how our thoughts, nervous system, hormones, and immunity are all connected.
Podcasters and creators will pick up practical takeaways, like how to rethink mainstream advice about “blame” in diabetes and why self-love is so crucial in healing (and not just a cliché). Plus, you’ll hear how to approach lifestyle changes without falling into shame or overwhelm, using baby steps that feel true to you.
Get ready for a refreshing perspective on whole-person health and a reminder to treat yourself with kindness.
Connect With Magic Barclay
Website:https://www.wholisticnaturalhealth.com.au/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/magicbarclay/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Magic’s Journey
00:57 Surviving Multiple Health Crises
01:17 Facing Diagnosis and Early Signs
02:50 Ignored Symptoms and Body Clues
03:40 The Hidden Role of Trauma and Stress
04:41 Turning Point: Seeking Root Causes
05:39 Hidden Factors Beyond Blood Sugar
07:16 Understanding the PNEI of Trauma
10:40 Misunderstandings About Diabetes
13:09 First Healing Steps That Really Help
14:36 How Diet and Plants Fit In
16:25 Why Self-Love Matters
17:20 One-Minute Mindset Shift
18:22 National Diabetes Month Message
18:46 Lightning Round with Magic
19:46 How to Connect With Magic
20:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell
If you’ve ever wondered how your habits, hormones, and the food you eat affect your long-term wellbeing (even if you don’t have diabetes), this episode is for you. I sit down with Hannah Bethman, a gut and hormone health coach, to explore women’s health from a fresh perspective. You’ll hear Hannah’s personal journey overcoming years of gut and hormonal issues, and what she’s learned about daily choices that help you feel better — no extremes required. Tune in for simple ways to rethink blood sugar (beyond just carbs or diabetes talk), and why balance is about far more than what’s on your plate. You’ll learn practical tips, like how your morning routine can boost energy and mood, and the real impact that small food swaps and lifestyle habits can have. Podcasters and creators will walk away with new inspiration for curious, meaningful conversations around health and everyday observances. Specifically, you’ll hear how to avoid the trap of all-or-nothing diets, plus three realistic habits anyone can start this week for better hormone harmony and energy.
Connect With Hannah Bethman
Website:https://www.hannahbwellness.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-bethman/
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Chapters
00:00 Introducing Observeday and National Diabetes Month
00:43 Meet Hannah Bethman and Her Story
01:14 Unpacking Years of Gut Issues
03:19 Discovering Nutrition’s Role in Wellness
04:58 Why Blood Sugar Matters for Women
05:56 How Insulin Resistance Develops
07:32 Blood Sugar’s Impact on Hormones
09:36 Real-Life Signs and Symptoms
10:46 The Danger of Extreme Restriction
12:11 Quality vs. Quantity in Carbs
14:45 Easy, Sustainable Changes for Blood Sugar
16:33 Three Simple Habits to Start This Week
19:55 Lightning Round: Everyday Wellness Rituals
22:08 Debunking Nutrition Myths
23:19 Nightly Routines for Better Sleep
24:29 What Feeling Balanced Means
25:17 How to Connect With Hannah
25:58 Wrapping Up and Next Steps
If you’ve ever wondered how to move beyond the surface level of diversity, this episode is for you. I sit down with Dr. Thomas Becker, an organizational psychologist and author, for a conversation about what it really takes to make diversity and inclusion meaningful—every day, not just during campaigns or holidays. You’ll hear Dr. Becker share why true cultural competence goes far beyond checkboxes and how “whole person appreciation” can help teams reconnect on a human level, even when opinions or backgrounds are drastically different.
As a listener, you’ll come away with clear ideas for fostering a sense of belonging in any group or workplace. We dig into:
How leaders (and everyone) can use the “detente mindset” to build bridges, even when there’s conflict
Simple but effective things you can do to help people feel seen for who they really are—not just a label or a checkbox
Tune in if you want new perspective on diversity and practical tips that work both at work and in everyday life.
Connect With Thomas Becker
Website: https://thomasebecker.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasebecker
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Why This Matters
00:30 What Sparked Dr. Becker’s Book
02:38 Rethinking Cultural Competence
05:34 Whole Person Appreciation Explained
09:10 Leaders and Creating Belonging
12:34 The Impact of Inclusion & Exclusion
14:06 Moving from Slogans to Daily Practice
19:46 Lessons from Global and Remote Teams
22:49 How to Connect with Dr. Thomas Becker
23:36 Wrapping Up and Takeaways
If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to break free from an unhealthy relationship and rediscover your sense of self, today’s episode is for you. I sat down with Amanda J Scott, author of Finding My Way Back to Me, for National Reading New Book Month. Amanda shares her journey of leaving a 17-year abusive marriage and how that experience transformed her identity—and her willingness to help others reclaim theirs. In this heartfelt conversation, you’ll hear what it’s really like to admit the truth about abuse, the subtle signs that go unnoticed, and why self-worth is at the core of recovery.
Podcasters and creators will especially take away these nuggets: 1) How sharing personal experiences can break silence and offer hope; 2) What emotional and financial abuse looks like behind closed doors; 3) The real importance of self-care in healing—step by step, not all at once. If you’re seeking inspiration, or practical insights about difficult topics, this episode will give you both. Make each day count by tuning in.
Connect With Amanda J Scott
Website:https://www.amandajscott.com/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and episode introduction
00:30 Amanda’s story and book background
01:00 Understanding hidden forms of abuse
02:05 Why Amanda started writing
03:05 Writing as a path to healing
03:57 Wisdom asks about the hardest part
04:08 Facing the truth and first steps
04:57 How abuse takes control
08:55 Newsletter invitation and next topic
09:19 The 43 pivotal days explained
10:31 Realizing it’s abuse and first breakthroughs
12:28 The role of self-worth and friendships
14:14 Describing personal changes after leaving
16:19 Defining healthy vs unhealthy relationships
18:10 Small moments of realization
19:39 Rethinking signs of love and control
21:06 Self-care and the healing journey
21:59 How to connect with Amanda
22:46 Supporting other women
22:54 Closing thoughts and gratitude
23:15 Episode wrap-up and newsletter invite
Looking for ways to spark your creativity, find meaning in your story, and learn from someone who’s blended music, service, and reinvention? In this episode, I sit down with Steven Boehm—army veteran, music producer, educator, and novelist—to explore how military experience can unexpectedly fuel artistic growth and community building. You’ll hear how Steven’s journey through punk rock and service shaped not only his creative discipline but also the way he helps others navigate change and find their creative voice.
If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll discover:
How bridging different life experiences can make your creative work richer and more rewarding
Why helping others enter creative communities can give your own projects deeper meaning
Practical advice from Steven on setting yourself up for success when making life transitions
Plus, Steven shares what inspired his debut novel, how teaching brings fresh purpose, and why connecting with people beyond stereotypes leads to the best stories.
Connect With Steven Boehm
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-boehm/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Observe Day
00:29 Honoring Veterans Day & Guest Intro
01:26 Creativity, Service, and Healing
01:38 Punk Rock Roots and Military Life
02:32 Finding Community in Service
03:14 The Transition Back to Civilian Life
04:39 Music as a Bridge
05:20 The Need for Veteran Support
06:04 Breaking Veteran Stereotypes
07:30 Creative Outlets in the Military
08:02 Writing “Invasion of the Punk Rockers”
09:19 Found Families and Story Inspiration
09:45 Stories from Touring and Creating
10:18 Smooth Transitions After Service
11:01 Advice for Veterans Transitioning Careers
11:59 Helping Creatives and Students Thrive
13:01 Steven’s Mission as Teacher and Father
14:52 Biggest Lesson from the Army
15:55 Finding Common Ground in Service
17:26 New Writing Projects Revealed
19:08 How to Connect with Steven
20:10 Wrap Up and Next Steps
Curious about how tolerance goes beyond just “putting up with” differences, and what real inclusion looks like in everyday life and in business? In this episode, I sat down with Michael Bach to talk about why organizations—and even small teams—need to move past symbolic gestures to genuine inclusion that works for everyone. We dig into why treating diversity as a simple checklist just doesn’t work, and what it means to build equity and accessibility into your daily actions.
Together, we unpack exactly what inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility really mean, both for organizations and individuals. If you’re wondering how “privilege” can become a practical tool for allyship instead of something awkward to talk about, this episode is for you. You’ll hear ideas for everyday actions that anyone can take to make their workplace or community more inclusive. Key takeaways for creators: you’ll learn why connecting with diverse communities is good business, and how small, consistent steps are more impactful than big gestures when making real change on your team or in your audience.
Connect With Michael Bach
Website:https://www.michaelbach.com/
Twitter:https://x.com/themichaelbach
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/themichaelbach/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and International Day for Tolerance
00:41 Introducing Michael Bach’s Work
01:42 What Does Tolerance Really Mean?
02:40 Moving From Tolerance to Inclusion
03:28 The Business Value of Inclusion
05:10 Explaining IDEA in Simple Terms
08:15 Newsletter Invitation and Transition
08:41 Symbolic Gestures vs. Real Inclusion
09:03 Shifting to Systemic Inclusion
12:31 How Real Diversity Improves Hiring
12:48 Clearing Up Misconceptions
13:48 Understanding Reverse Discrimination
14:53 Why Diversity Fatigue Happens
15:53 Breaking Down Privilege
16:19 How Privilege Can Be Used For Good
18:12 Small Actions to Build Inclusion
22:33 Where to Connect With Michael
22:58 Episode Wrap-Up and Next Steps
Looking to discover what really matters when you’re building a podcast — beyond the downloads and fancy gear? In this episode, I sit down with Rose Davidson, someone who’s spent years helping business owners and survivors share their stories, both on the mic and in their communities. We go deep on how to find your authentic voice—even when you’re worried your story “isn’t big enough.” You’ll hear Rose’s gentle but practical take on starting before you’re ready and why you don’t need expensive equipment to launch a show that actually means something to you and your audience.
If you’re wondering how to grow a podcast in a way that feels genuine (and not all about vanity metrics), this conversation is for you. You’ll pick up two key strategies: how to pace yourself so you don’t burn out, and why authenticity always wins over trying to sound like someone else. Plus, Rose shares simple steps for building brand awareness and community with your show. Whether you’re new or experienced, there’s quiet wisdom here for every creator.
Connect With Rose Davidson
Website: https://rosedavidson.com
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Observe Day
00:22 Meet Rose Davidson
01:21 Early Influences and Starting Out
02:02 Creating Healing Through Love
02:28 Finding Strength in Your Voice
03:36 Lessons From 650 Interviews
04:41 From Stage Fright to Podcast Ease
05:14 Podcasting for Healing or Business?
06:33 Handling Burnout and Taking Breaks
06:58 How “Talking With the Experts” Began
08:11 When It All Started: July 2020
08:53 The OPAL System Explained
09:45 Organize vs. Arrange in OPAL
10:45 Newsletter Invitation
11:09 The SHINE Formula for Guests
12:37 Authenticity in Podcasting
13:29 Why Being Yourself Matters
15:25 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
17:17 Lessons for Aspiring Podcasters
19:16 Podcasting for Brand and Community
20:22 Quick Fire Questions with Rose
21:03 Podcasting Myths and Podfade
24:27 Final Advice for Podcasters
25:33 Where to Find Rose 26:15 Thanks and Wrap Up
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to support children in foster care, this episode is for you. I chat with Sharon Dunlevy, an educational advocate and trainer for foster parents, who opens up about the overlooked challenges facing foster children — especially when it comes to education and trauma. We talk about why so many foster kids fall through the cracks, the real impacts of trauma in the classroom, and why traditional approaches simply aren’t enough.
You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what trauma-informed teaching looks like and why it matters. Plus, you’ll hear specific ways you can support a foster child — whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone in the community who just wants to help. We also touch on myths about foster care laws and the practical steps you can take to make a real difference, starting this week. If you care about reimagining a better future for all kids, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
Connect With Sharon Dunlevy
Website:https://sharondunlevy.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharondunlevy/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and World Children's Day
00:27 Meet Sharon Dunlevy
01:20 Realities Facing Foster Children
02:46 Why Foster Kids Fall Behind
03:29 Are We Honoring Children's Rights?
04:40 Culture, Community, and Foster Care
05:56 The Importance of Empathy
07:10 How Children Are Affected Most
07:29 Training Foster Parents as Advocates
08:46 Misconceptions About Education Laws
09:30 The Every Student Succeeds Act
10:32 Legal Nuances and Foster Children
12:16 Why Law Awareness Matters
13:21 What Trauma-Informed Teaching Means
14:27 How Trauma Impacts Learning
15:08 Effective Classroom Approaches
16:27 Supporting All Kids in the Classroom
17:40 Creativity, Graduation, and School Gaps
18:25 Needed Changes to Support Foster Youth
21:01 Simple Ways Anyone Can Help
22:24 Where to Find Sharon Dunlevy
22:47 Wrap Up and Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever felt that men are expected to keep their emotions bottled up or that conversations around masculinity are missing something deeper, this episode is for you. I’m sitting down with transformation coach Andrew Wilson for a refreshingly honest chat about what strength and vulnerability can really mean for men today—especially around International Men’s Day. We dig into the hidden struggles many men face, but don’t talk about, and why facing our fears and emotions is actually a sign of courage. You’ll hear Andrew’s powerful story of turning loss and pain into growth, and his practical advice for men (or anyone) who wants to start their healing journey.
Listen in to discover:
How simple practices like journaling or meditation can actually help men move from burnout to breakthrough.
The subtle yet life-changing impact of the words we use about ourselves—and how you can reset your internal story.
What it looks like to move from a “victim mindset” to feeling empowered, both in leadership and everyday life.
Connect With Andrew Wilson
Website:https://www.andrewfwilson.com/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Newsletter Invitation
00:24 Why International Men’s Day Matters
00:46 Introducing Andrew Wilson
01:46 The Quiet Fears Men Face
02:07 Bottled Emotions & Communication Challenges
03:20 Turning Pain Into Purpose
04:39 Changing from Victim to Healer
06:31 Hidden Emotional Costs for Men
07:28 Tools to Empower Men
08:40 Lessons Behind Emotional Triggers
09:14 Empowered Masculinity in Leadership
10:38 When Work Replaces Self-Care
11:39 How Men Start Their Healing Journey
13:32 Lightning Round: Reflections on Manhood
15:51 Where to Find Andrew Online
16:35 Closing & How to Stay Connected
If you’ve ever wondered what your dog is really trying to say or how to spot early signs your pet may need some TLC, this episode is for you! September is National Guide Dog Month, and I sit down with Dr. Jeff Feinman — a veterinarian and holistic educator — to talk about deepening the human-dog bond and tuning into the subtle signals our pets share every day. We dig into “the beam method,” Dr. Feinman’s easy framework for noticing changes in your dog’s behavior, energy, appetite, and mood. You’ll hear practical tips for becoming a mindful, present pet parent, plus why embracing symptoms as messages (not fears) can help you support your dog’s wellbeing. Dr. Feinman shares everyday examples and stories that will spark ideas for connecting on a whole new level with your canine companions. Tune in if you want to learn:
How to spot early signs your dog isn’t feeling their best using the beam method.
The value of presence and pausing to truly understand your pet.
Simple habits to bring more joy to your bond with your dog.
Connect With Jeff Feinman
Website: https://holisticactions.com
Book Pre-order Page: https://holisticactions.com/book
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Chapters
00:00 Welcoming Dr. Jeff Feinman
00:23 Celebrating National Guide Dog Month
00:41 Dr. Feinman’s holistic pet philosophy
01:02 Why human/dog bonds are unique
01:54 How “listening” evolved for Dr. Feinman
02:37 Example: A mindful walk with Maya
03:55 Explaining the beam method
05:13 Beam in action: The Happiness Protocol
06:05 From symptoms to wellness
07:04 Why symptoms matter
08:17 Moving from fear to trust
10:40 Mindfulness and working with animals
11:58 Presence and unconditional love
12:57 One simple daily habit for pet parents
14:19 About The Path to Pet Wellness
15:04 Symptom checklist for listeners
15:45 How to connect with Dr. Feinman
16:44 Wrapping up and next steps
When you listen to this episode, you’ll discover how storytelling can actually help us through tough moments — especially when life feels overwhelming. My conversation with Jeffrey Barnes, a two-time brain tumor survivor known for teaching the very first accredited college course on Disneyland, is about finding hope, even when you don’t see a way forward.
Jeffrey shares how Walt Disney’s struggles, from repeated failures to bouts of depression, shaped the worlds and stories we now love. You’ll learn why showing the “messy” parts of our stories matters far more than hiding them, and how taking even one small step (action!) can spark real change in our lives. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll walk away with ideas for turning your own challenges into stories that connect with your listeners — and see how courage often means simply moving forward, imperfectly.
You’ll also walk away with:
The value of sharing conflict and vulnerability in your work
How to use imagination to create a hopeful future for yourself and your audience
Tune in if you could use a bit of courage for your own next chapter.
Connect With Jeffrey Barnes
Website: https://thewisdomofwalt.com
Wednesdays with Walt blog: https://thewisdomofwalt.com
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Today’s Observance
00:22 Introducing Jeffrey Barnes
01:09 The Power of Storytelling for Hope
01:34 Walt Disney’s Story of Resilience
02:27 Facing Fear and Hardship Head-On
03:22 Turning Personal Struggles Into Lessons
04:43 When Your Story Feels Over
05:51 Walt Disney’s Mindset and Moving Forward
06:34 The Real Struggle Behind the Magic
08:18 Why We Need Messy Stories
09:20 Conflict Makes Stories — and Lives — Interesting
10:13 Finding Your Moment of Courage
11:44 Imagination and Building a New Future
13:00 Becoming the Hero in Small Steps
14:43 Dealing with Depression and Hard Emotions
15:22 Jeffrey’s Direct Advice for Those Struggling
16:24 Where to Find More From Jeffrey
17:14 Wrap Up and Newsletter Invitation
If you’re curious about how AI can make work more human, this episode is for you. I sit down with Yaakov Sash, founder of Kasu AI, to unpack what it means to create truly intelligent automation—not just faster processes, but systems that are reliable and aligned with real people. We talk about how “vibecrafting” can help teams turn ideas into clear requirements before a single line of code is written. You’ll learn why the magic really happens before the prompt ever hits the AI, and why quality matters more than speed when stakes are high. For anyone building with AI or leading creative teams, Yaakov shares fresh ways to keep people, intent, and alignment at the heart of automation.
Listen in to discover:
How to avoid the pitfalls of “vibe coding from hell,” and set up your AI projects for success
Why smart planning and shared vision matter even more when AI enters the workflow
Practical advice for creators to stay creative and ethical while bringing AI into their projects
Connect with Yakov Sash
Website:https://www.casso.ai/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaakovsash/
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Chapters
00:00 What Makes Automation Intelligent
00:46 Introducing Yaakov Sash and Vibecrafting
01:08 Lessons from High-Stakes Finance
02:32 Why Vibecrafting Beats Vibe Coding
04:00 Fun vs. Responsibility in Building with AI
06:32 The Pitfalls of Rushing AI Projects
07:22 Keeping Teams Aligned with AI
09:41 Balancing Speed and Quality with AI
11:14 Writing Better, Safer Code
13:40 How Kasu AI Makes Automation Smarter
16:23 Fixing Technical Debt with Intelligent Automation
17:36 Skills for Future Developers
19:20 Startups: Blending AI, Creativity & Ethics
22:01 The Manual Process You Should Never Automate
23:57 Managing Teams vs. Managing AI
25:03 Where to Find Out More About Yaakov Sash
If you or someone you care about is navigating the challenges of brain injury recovery, you’ll find real insight and support in this episode. I sat down with Kelly Tuttle, an award-winning ortho healthcare advocate and traumatic brain surgery survivor, to talk about the unexpected turns on the journey to healing. You’ll hear Kelly open up about moving from nurse to patient overnight, the invisible symptoms that linger beyond the initial trauma, and the emotional ups and downs of rediscovering a sense of self. We get practical, covering simple tools for returning to work after a brain injury and the five pillars for recovery that every survivor should know. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll pick up actionable takeaways on building resilience during life challenges and the power of journaling to gain insight and clarity. This episode is full of compassionate advice and firsthand moments — a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand, support, or personally face brain injury recovery.
Connect with Kelly Tuttle
Website:https://kellytuttle.org/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-tuttle/
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Chapters
00:00 – Why Join the Newsletter
00:24 – Intro to Observe Day Podcast
00:46 – Meet Kelly Tuttle: Her Story
01:39 – The Night of the Crash
02:28 – The Diagnosis: Facing Reality
03:13 – Struggles After the Brain Injury
03:45 – Critical Moment: Falling Asleep Driving
04:33 – Invisible Symptoms Explained
06:01 – Realizing Something Was Wrong
06:50 – Identity, Journaling, and Acceptance
08:43 – Life After Change: Mindful Healing
09:56 – Inspiration Behind Writing the Book
11:08 – Writing: Experience Over Memoir
12:11 – Lessons Learned and Shared Mistakes
13:22 – Returning to Work: Small Steps
14:25 – Five Pillars of Recovery
17:05 – Advice for Survivors
18:15 – How Family and Friends Can Help
19:43 – Where to Find Kelly Tuttle
20:26 – Closing Thoughts and Farewell
If you’re curious about what truly makes diverse workplaces thrive, this episode is for you. I sit down with Julia Rock to unpack the real meaning of diversity — beyond just buzzwords and frameworks — and talk about how leadership shapes our work environments. You’ll hear why burnout isn’t just about doing too much work, but about inclusion, feeling valued, and being understood. Julia shares simple ways leaders can notice how their team members are showing up and what that reveals about their wellbeing. If you manage a team or want to lead with more impact and humanity, you’ll walk away with two or three clear takeaways:
— Why recognizing and celebrating differences boosts team performance and belonging
— How paying attention to subtle changes in employee behavior helps prevent burnout
— The five key traits that define uncomplicated, effective leadership
Listen in for honest stories and practical tips that will help you build better teams — and maybe rethink what leadership really means.
Connect With Julia Rock
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-rock/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejuliarock
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thejuliarock
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejuliarock
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Chapters
00:00 Why Leadership and Inclusion Matter
00:37 Meet Julia Rock and Her Work
01:12 What Diversity Really Means
02:05 Experiences That Shape Leaders
04:16 How Inclusion Affects Burnout
06:00 Signs Leaders Should Watch For
08:23 Noticing How People Show Up
10:06 Why Leadership Isn’t Complicated
11:52 The Five Cs Formula
13:35 Unpacking Confidence vs. Competence
14:43 Stepping Up for the First Time
16:28 Technical Skills vs. Leading People
17:44 Lightning Round Fun
19:13 Where To Find Julia Rock
20:00 Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered how books can help us heal, especially after loss, this episode is for you. I sat down with Angela Clement, a certified grief coach and author, as part of National Reading New Book Month, to talk about why reading and writing can be gentle lifelines during hard times. You’ll hear about Angela’s journey through grief after losing her husband and how her book, Awakening Through Grief, was both a record and a tool for healing.
Angela opens up about what makes grief such a complex experience and why it’s not just an emotion, but a process. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll learn how personal storytelling can transform your work and why blending practical exercises with stories makes a book more approachable for those going through tough seasons. Plus, Angela shares how interviewing experts on grief shaped the pages of her own book—and might just inspire new ways for you to invite guests to support your audience.
Connect with Angela Clement
Website:https://healingenergy.world/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/aclementvm/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-clement
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction & Today's Observance
00:25 Why Books Matter in Grief
01:17 How Writing Helped Angela Heal
02:16 The Spiritual Side of Grief
02:34 What Readers Might Discover
03:48 Blending Stories and Guidance
04:41 Starting To Read When Overwhelmed
05:27 Mother's Day Reflections
06:22 Finding Perspective Through Grief
07:01 Lessons from Grief Experts
08:32 Fears Around Grief Books
10:17 The Value of Support in Healing
12:18 Preparing for Life's Losses
13:30 Can Books Change Our Healing?
14:25 Angela’s Favorite Idea from Her Book
16:11 Everyday Grieving Explained
17:05 Where to Find Angela Online
17:46 Book & Podcast Titles
18:37 Angela’s Book Cover Story
18:45 Wrapping Up and Farewell
Are you a caregiver, or do you know someone who is supporting aging parents or loved ones? In this episode, I sat down with Ingrid Hanson-Popp to talk about the deeply personal journey of caregiving — and why it matters to approach it with love, humility, and presence. If you sometimes feel like you’re just surviving, you’ll want to hear Ingrid’s honest advice for finding ways to truly thrive, even in the hardest moments. We touched on the importance of building a team around you, and how humility (not heroics!) can lead to real support and connection. You’ll also discover why learning to ask for help and taking practical breaks can transform not only your experience, but your well-being. And if family dynamics are making things messy, you’ll pick up a few tips for finding peace and unity when siblings disagree or emotions run high. You’ll leave with new perspectives on what it means to lovingly let go, and how to care for yourself as much as you care for others.
Connect with Ingrid Hanson -Popp
Website:https://www.droppedpencil.com/becoming-an-orphan
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-hanson-popp
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Chapters
00:00 Beginning the Caregiving Journey
00:53 From Surviving to Thriving
01:03 The Role of Pain in Caregiving
03:26 Compassion Without Overwhelm
06:04 What Thriving Looks Like
08:47 Family Dynamics and Letting Go
10:59 Finding Unity During Conflict
15:22 Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver
22:11 Encouragement for Unseen Caregivers
26:13 Resources and Support Groups
27:30 Final Thoughts and Goodbye
If you’ve ever felt like “self-improvement” is just another word for chasing perfection, this episode is for you. I sat down with Jane McGuiness, author of On Always Hungry, to dig into the real meaning of change, healing, and self-acceptance. Jane’s story isn’t just about weight loss, but about everything underneath — how society treats us based on appearance, how to spot emotional eating, and what it actually takes to feel at peace with who we are.
We talk honestly about why tying your worth to your looks, job, or status can silently sabotage happiness, and Jane shares simple ways to break free from diet culture and toxic comparison. Creators and podcasters will learn:
How real transformation requires self-compassion before any “fixing” happens.
How mindfulness and body awareness can change your relationship with food, work, and creativity.
Practical signs and questions to spot when you’re being driven by emotion instead of presence.
If you’re curious about making real, sustainable changes — beyond the latest trends — this conversation offers a fresh perspective and some gentle tools to try.
Connect with Jane MCGuiness
Website:https://www.janemcguinnesstheauthor.com/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/janemcguinnesstheauthor/#
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Chapters
00:00 Why Observeday Exists
00:23 Jane’s Book Title Journey
00:34 Hidden Meaning of Hunger
01:06 Finding Inspiration to Write
01:24 Thin Privilege & Moderation
02:30 Breaking Free From Diet Culture
03:21 Self-Improvement Without Shame
04:00 The Dangers of Appearance-Based Worth
04:33 Professional Help and Resources
05:05 Accepting Others, Accepting Ourselves
05:20 Redefining Real Self-Improvement
06:04 Healing Through Writing a Memoir
07:02 Shame, Secrets, and Acceptance
08:10 Emotional Eating Unpacked
08:36 Mindfulness and Body Awareness
09:09 Signs of Emotional Eating
09:43 Practicing Presence With Emotions
10:22 Lightning Round: Life & Change
11:13 The Next Chapter: What’s Ahead
12:13 How Freedom Feels Now
13:00 Self-Improvement is Love
13:13 Where to Find Jane’s Book
13:56 Wrapping Up & Newsletter Invite
On this episode of Observeday, we’re diving into Global Diversity Awareness Month with community engagement consultant Matthias Lemos Castillo. If you’re looking to understand how real inclusivity goes far beyond just ticking boxes, this conversation will spark ideas for your own team, podcast, or creative projects. You’ll hear why celebrating what makes us different AND what makes us similar matters, and how cultures can be bridges instead of barriers.
Two key takeaways for creators and podcasters: First, Matthias unpacks the practical ways you can build true cultural competence without waiting for a workshop — think cookbooks and community meetups instead of slideshows. Second, you’ll learn how to use trusted messengers to reach beyond your own networks authentically and why collaboration is often more effective than trying to do it all yourself.
Plus, you’ll get some quick tips on engaging new communities and hear a lightning round of Matthias’s go-to ways to break the ice across cultures. If you want to take diversity beyond lip service and make it a true daily habit, this episode is for you!
Connect with Mathias Lemos Castillo
Website:https://consultantmlc.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlemoscastillo/
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Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.
Sign up here: https://observeday.com/join
Chapters
00:00 What is Global Diversity Awareness Month?
00:23 Meet Matthias Lemos Castillo
01:19 Global Diversity: What It Means
02:24 From Uruguay to the US
03:34 Finding Belonging Amid Culture Shock
05:20 Common Mistakes Leaders Make
06:14 Differences and Similarities
08:53 Cultural Competency Explained
09:40 Building Cultural Competence Daily
10:55 Libraries, Social Media, and Local Exploration
13:14 Lessons from Leading Diverse Teams
16:04 Bridging Cultural Gaps: Stories from the Field
20:19 The Next Decade: Moving to True Belonging
21:21 Lightning Round: Inclusion Rapid Fire
23:15 Where to Find Matthias Online
23:44 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever felt stuck in old patterns or wondered if real change is still possible for you, this conversation is for you. In today’s episode, I talk with Hilary Momberger-Powers, whose story takes us from childhood Hollywood fame, through addiction and darkness, to decades of recovery and mentoring others. We explore why self-improvement is less about “fixing” yourself and more about re-discovering who you truly are.
Listen and you’ll find practical wisdom on how to spot when your past pain is running the show — and what to do about it. You’ll learn:
Why transformation has to begin on the inside, not just with new habits or outside changes.
Simple, doable ways to stabilize yourself and shift out of old patterns.
How leading with your wound can shape relationships and choices, and how to notice when it’s happening.
Hilary’s honesty is refreshing, and her down-to-earth advice will help you make every day a new beginning.
Connect With Hilary Momberger-Powers
Instagram: https://instagram.com/hillarypowers
If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.
Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.
Sign up here: https://observeday.com/join
Chapters
00:00 Discovering the Days That Matter
00:39 Hilary’s Hollywood Childhood
01:46 The Cost of Fame and Family
06:05 Falling Into Addiction and Shame
08:37 Hitting Bottom and Asking for Help
10:38 Why Real Change Starts on the Inside
12:16 Turning the Funnel Around
14:10 Escaping Victimhood and Reclaiming Agency
17:09 How Wounds Lead Our Choices
19:33 People-Pleasing, Loneliness, and Control
21:06 Grounding Ourselves to Grow
22:40 The Search for Belonging
24:09 It’s Never Too Late to Start Over
26:04 Reinventing Yourself at Any Age
28:43 Protecting Your Inner Life