Stories of Change & Creativity: Recent Episodes
Judy Oskam
Everyone has a story to share. An idea-generator, Judy Oskam explores how people deal with change and embrace creativity. University Professor+Gallup Certified Strengths Coach+Tiny Habits Certified Coach | Host & Producer - Dr. Judy Oskam www.judyoskam.com
At 20 years old, Queen Margaret University student Laura Stevenson traveled from Scotland to Martha's Vineyard for a six-month study abroad internship. At the time, it felt like nothing more than a graduation requirement.
She had no idea she was living through a defining moment.
In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, Laura reflects on the experience that changed her life. And she didn't recognize it until years later. Together, we explore how defining moments sometimes reveal their true value - in the rear view mirror.
Laura shares how living and working in the United States helped build her confidence and independence. It wasn't until she began helping students prepare for their own international experiences that she realized the greatest value of study abroad wasn't the work itself—it was the personal growth that came from stepping outside her comfort zone.
So far, Laura has traveled to nearly 50 countries and serves as an International Officer at Queen Margaret University. In this role, she helps students recognize the life-changing value of international education while they're still living it.
As I listened to Laura's story, I was reminded that defining moments rarely jump up and grab us. Sometimes we only understand their significance when we look back and connect the dots. I certainly can relate.
In This Episode
- Why Laura almost overlooked one of the most important experiences of her life
- How a study abroad internship became a defining moment
- Why reflection is essential to personal growth
- How international experiences prepare us for life—not just careers
- Laura's passion for travel, including why Paris captured her heart
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What happens when a restaurant encourages people to put away their phones and simply talk to each other?
At Bella Italia in North Berwick, Scotland, a simple sign on the door reads: "We do not have Wi-Fi. Talk to each other. Pretend it's 1995."
That sign caught my attention while I was teaching at Queen Margaret University in Scotland. But it was what happened inside the restaurant that stayed with me. In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I talk with Loredana (Lora) Calabrese about family and why creating a place where people truly connect may be more important today than ever.
I noticed something special about the restaurant. Yes, the food was great but so was the atmosphere.
Lora shares the story of her father, Giovanni Mastrocinque, and his journey from Italy to Scotland. Through hard work, he built a successful family business that continues to bring people together more than four decades later.
What struck me most about Lora's story is that Bella Italia isn't really a story about a restaurant. It's a story about people. It's about creating a place where families gather and memories are made.
When I later told local interior designer Emma Cross that I was planning to interview Lora, she said, "That's where everyone goes for celebrations." This simple comment made me even more curious about the story behind Bella Italia and the family who built it.
In this Episode
• The story behind Bella Italia and its founding in 1981
• Giovanni Mastrocinque’s journey from Italy to Scotland
• The famous "No WiFi" sign and why it resonates with customers
• Lessons Lora learned from her father about hard work and perseverance
• Building a family business across generations
• Creating a place where people feel welcome and valued
Connect with Bella Italia
Bella Italia Restaurant
North Berwick, Scotland
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur Emma Cross shares how childhood experiences, creativity, travel, and a willingness to say yes shaped her life and career.
Emma Cross knew she wanted to be a designer when she was five years old.
In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I sit down with Emma Cross, a Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur, to explore the experiences that shaped her life and career.
I first discovered Emma's shop while exploring North Berwick, Scotland. It's a 20 minute train ride from Queen Margaret University, home of our Texas State University Hub program. Drawn in by the color and design, I was curious about the person behind the brand. Two of my Texas State University students selected Emma's business for our class branding project. This gave me the perfect reason to reach out to Emma and learn more about her story.
During our interview, Emma talked about growing up in the servants' quarters of a grand estate and how that experience shaped her dreams. She told me she finds inspiration from travel, family and classic films. Emma was captivated by Doris Day's role as an interior designer in Pillow Talk, an early influence that helped spark a lifelong passion for design. She still goes back to Doris Day's iconic style for ideas.
Emma's path to becoming an interior designer and entrepreneur wasn't a straight line. She didn't get into art school. Instead, she built her career through experience, curiosity and a willingness to say yes when opportunities appeared—even when she didn't have everything figured out. She said yes.
In This Episode
• How childhood experiences influence creativity and career choices
• Doris Day, Pillow Talk, and early influences on design
• The role of color, creativity, and personal style
• Building an interior design business through experience and opportunity
• Lessons from entrepreneurship and creative business ownership
• Learning to say yes before everything is figured out
Connect with Emma Cross
Interior Designer | Entrepreneur | Creative Business Owner
Website: emmacrossonline.com
Emma Cross - The Store
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What experiences shape who we become?
In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with Kelly Engram, educator, Texas State University graduate, and founder of Prairie Fire Hair.
Kelly's journey has been full of challenges and turning points. As a young single mother, she was busy working and raising her son. Kelly started college but life got in the way. She returned and finished school years later, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree. Along the way she discovered a passion for teaching and helping others succeed.
One of the experiences that shaped Kelly most was a personal struggle with hair loss. It challenged her confidence and self-image. She talks candidly about this during our interview. And now she helps other women regain their confidence and embrace who they are.
Together, Judy and Kelly explore confidence, identity, and what happens when we give ourselves permission to grow. It's a conversation about discovering passion and finding purpose in a way you never thought possible.
The Experience That Shaped Kelly
Hair loss challenged Kelly's confidence, self-image, and sense of identity. Through that experience, she learned to give herself grace, embrace change, and stop letting fear define how she saw herself. Her struggle ultimately became the foundation for her purpose and life's work.
Lessons from Kelly's Journey
• Confidence grows when we stop focusing on how others see us and start accepting ourselves.
• Passion is often discovered through action and experience.
• The experiences we would never choose often become the experiences that shape us most.
• It's never too late to discover a new direction, a new passion, or a new purpose.
Memorable Quote
"The world doesn't see my heart. The world doesn't see my mind...."
— Kelly Engram
About Kelly Engram
Kelly Engram is the founder of Prairie Fire Hair, a Texas-based company dedicated to helping women experiencing hair loss regain confidence through education, personalized support, and luxury wigs. A Texas State graduate, educator, and entrepreneur, Kelly combines lived experience with compassion and expertise to help women navigate issues of identity, confidence, and personal transformation.
CONNECT WITH KELLY
https://prairiefirehair.com/
https://www.instagram.com/prairiefirehair/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Prairie-Fire-Hair/61572911695599/
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Graduation season always makes me reflective. In this first short solo episode from my new Making Life Work series, I share some thoughts from commencement weekend at Texas State University. The stories unfolding behind every graduate walking across the stage — stories about growth, creativity, and figuring out what comes next.
Our students have experience in journalism and storytelling projects, student media, internships, national competitions, and education abroad courses. I also reflect on my own unexpected journey from journalism and public relations into higher education.
This episode also features remarks from Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse recognizing graduates, mentors, faculty, family members, and the support systems that help students move forward.
In this Episode
- Graduation and personal growth
- Student success and storytelling
- Internships, study abroad, and leadership experiences
- Reinvention, uncertainty, and career journeys
Thanks for listening to Stories of Change & Creativity — documenting growth and making life work, one story at a time.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
In this Mother’s Day episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with her daughters, Danielle and Jessica, about adoption, family, and experiences that shape identity and creativity.
Judy reflects on the decision to adopt from China. She shares how motherhood changed her understanding of creativity and personal growth.
Dani and Jess share their perspective on parenting, identity, and what it means to grow together across generations. They also talk about foster families, adoption stories, and the Chinese belief in the “red thread of fate” — the invisible connection between people who are meant to find one another.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How adoption shaped Judy’s journey to motherhood
- Lessons children teach parents about creativity and perspective
- Reflections on infertility, IVF, and adoption
- The meaning behind the “red thread of fate”
Memorable Comments
- “There’s no rulebook when it comes to parenting.”
- “Maybe we all have red threads in our lives.”
- *"I always like to say that in every lifetime I think that you're my mother."
- Jess*
If you enjoy conversations about adoption, motherhood, famil, and personal growth, this episode is for you.
Follow Danielle Oskam on Instagram: @danioskam
Follow Jessica Oskam on Instagram: @jessicaoskam
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
How innovation is transforming Texas—and where the biggest opportunities are emerging.
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I had the chance to talk with entrepreneur Justin McKenzie, host of The Building Texas Show. We explore innovation across Texas—from small towns to major cities—and discuss workforce development and emerging industries.
Justin shares insights from his career journey, along with lessons from interviewing leaders across the state.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in innovation and career opportunities in Texas.
You’ll Learn
- Where innovation is happening across Texas
- Why workforce development matters for future jobs
- How local leaders shape economic growth
- About Justin's passion for Texas and Texas State University
- Advice for entrepreneurs and students
Key Takeaways
- Opportunity exists across Texas—not just in big cities
- Strong communities and leadership drive innovation
- The future of work is evolving quickly
- Success starts with taking action and learning as you go
About Justin
Justin McKenzie is an entrepreneur and host of The Building Texas Show, a podcast focused on highlighting innovation and economic development across Texas. He is a two-time Texas State graduate with experience in manufacturing, startups, and workforce strategy.
- Follow Justin McKenzie on LinkedIn
- Visit The Building Texas Show website
- Subscribe on YouTube
This interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What does it really mean to solve a problem in the age of AI?
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sat down with Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we think about problem solving. I met Dr. Bora when I moderated a panel at South by Southwest (SXSW) at Texas House as part of the Texas State University Global Innovation Roundup.
From his early interest in science in India to his work in applied mathematics, Dr. Bora shares how interdisciplinary thinking can lead to meaningful innovation. I found Bora to be smart, kind and a joy to be around. His energy is contagious.
Key Takeaways
- Problem solving starts with the right questions—not just the right tools
- AI is most powerful when combined with mathematics and real-world data
- Innovation often happens at the intersection of disciplines
- Understanding what you don’t know is essential to learning
- The future of education is about guiding curiosity, not just delivering answers
Why This Episode Matters
As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, the ability to think critically and solve meaningful problems is more important than ever. This episode offers a fresh perspective on how curiosity and creativity can drive real-world impact.
Learn more about Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, and his work in artificial intelligence and real-world applications here.
This podcast episode was recorded at the Live Oak Podcast Studio at Texas State University. Photo by Texas House.
🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with a colleague, student, or friend who’s interested in AI and creative problem solving.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
How does experiential learning prepare college students for real-world careers?
At Texas State, journalism students don’t just study reporting — they do it. They cover major news events and interview real people. Students report on impactful stories like the aftermath of the school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde and the 2025 deadly Central Texas flooding.
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with Dino Chiecchi, associate professor of practice at Texas State University. He's a veteran journalist with more than 30 years of newsroom experience.
During our conversation, we explore how classroom instruction meets professional practice. We talk about why mentorship and real-world experience matter in higher education.
What You’ll Learn
• Why experiential learning helps students build professional skills
• How expert faculty elevate classroom learning
• The importance of mentoring in developing confidence and resilience
• How students can publish meaningful work before they graduate
• Why telling the stories about real people matters
The articles written by Texas State University students were published in the Austin American Statesman and the Texas Standard. Check out the SJMC website for more information.
You can learn more about Professor Chiecchi's book here:
Josue: A Young Man's Life Lost to Suicide.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
If you’re a high-achieving professional who feels successful everywhere except your health, this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity might be for you. I can certainly relate!
Many driven professionals excel in their careers but struggle with health in midlife because they apply the same optimization mindset that works at work to their bodies. In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with Tony Sherock, Certified Personal Trainer— Health Behavior Specialist and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach. He explains how identity-based habits can create lasting health change.
This conversation reframes health as part of who you are, not another project to manage. You’ll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately to rebuild your health in a way that lasts.
What You’ll Learn
• Why high-achieving professionals often struggle with health in midlife
• Why traditional diets and fitness plans fail busy professionals over 40
• The role identity plays in health behavior change
• How tiny, adaptable habits create lasting health improvements
About Tony Sherock
Tony Sherock is a Health Behavior Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach. He is the founder of Habits To Health – Tony Sherock, LLC, and works with busy midlife professionals (40+) who are juggling demanding careers, family life, and caregiving responsibilities.
Tony helps high achievers rebuild their health by shifting away from fast, optimized effort toward slow, sustainable habit change that fits real life. His work is informed by a background in broadcasting and higher education, as well as his own personal health transformation—from being pre-diabetic and on multiple medications to creating lasting change through behavior science.
https://www.habitstohealthcoach.com/
You can find Tony Sherock on Facebook, Instagram, & Skool:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1605709083060117
https://www.instagram.com/tonysherock_habits_to_health/
https://www.skool.com/the-habit-hub
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
If you’re a fan of Outlander, the historical fiction series set in Scotland, like I am, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I talk with Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold, a literary scholar and historian known as the “Doctor of Outlander,” about her academic journey and career path. We discuss how historical fiction can become public history — inviting people to connect with history beyond textbooks and classrooms.
During this episode, you’ll learn how Outlander and other historical fiction can build bridges between fans, public audiences, and academic inquiry. Alex also shares insights from her own path — from studying literature in Germany to completing a PhD in Scotland on Outlander as public history. You'll hear how that journey reshaped her understanding of how stories can make reading and history more accessible for everyone.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
- How historical fiction functions as public history
- Why stories like Outlander make history feel accessible and emotionally resonant
- Dr. Alex Dold’s academic journey — from pursuing language and literature to transforming it into public-facing scholarship
- Practical ways listeners can continue engaging with history and reading outside formal academic spaces
Why This Matters
Historical fiction often gets dismissed as “just entertainment.” Alex’s work reframes it as public history. It's a way that everyday readers and viewers connect with the past and develop meaningful questions. This episode invites listeners to:
- see the Outlander stories they love as gateways to learning,
- recognize curiosity as a valid path to knowledge, and
- think about how reading habits can lead to deeper exploration.
Guest Info
Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold is a literary scholar and historian whose research focuses on historical fiction as public history. She completed her PhD in history examining the Outlander novels at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for History, Dornoch. Dr. Dold explored the role of Outlander in shaping how people engage with history beyond traditional academic spaces.
You can find out more about Dr. Dold and her scholarship below:
https://alexdold.com/
Outlander
Dr. Diana Gabaldon is the author of the award-winning The Outlander series. You can learn more about about the series and Diana here.
The final season of Outlander airs in March 2026.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
In this music-filled episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam sits down with singer-songwriter and education leader Dr. Candace Hastings to explore what it means to live a creative life of purpose. They talk about identity, community, and meaning. Along the way, you’ll hear excerpts from Candace’s new album, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind,” songs shaped by memory, place, and belonging.
Dr. Hastings is the Associate Vice Provost for the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship at Texas State University, an acclaimed Americana singer-songwriter and a tribal member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her Potawatomi name is Mskwagishgokwe [Red Sky Woman]. Candace shares how being adopted and later discovering her Indigenous heritage helped her come “full circle,” shaping both her leadership and her songwriting. This episode features excerpts of Candace’s music, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind.”
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How Candace integrates creative practice and leadership in higher education
- How identity and heritage shape her songwriting
- The Potawatomi concept of mno-bmadzewen - walking in a good way on the earth—a life guided by balance, responsibility, and relationship with community and the land
- Why curiosity and creativity are essential for learning, teaching, and innovation
- How work and play overlap when your work is aligned with meaning
Creativity and Letting the Song Lead
Candace describes her musical genre as Americana—and says each song “tells her what it needs to be.” Sometimes that means swing (as in “Lone Star Christmas”) and sometimes it means a fully layered studio production.
The song “Horses I Left Behind,” was written during Candace’s trips to Oklahoma where she deepened her connection to her Potawatomi roots. She told me that she later learned she drove past the cemetery where her grandmother was buried. This gives special meaning to the song.
Candace has a new album coming out in spring 2026, featuring the following songs:
- Soft Place to Land (title track)
- Horses I Left Behind
- Love and Cowboys
- It’s Too Damn Hot
- Call Your Mama
You can find out more about Candace Hastings and her music here:
https://www.candacehastings.com/
This episode was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What do you say when someone you love is dying—and you know your time together is limited? In this practical and compassionate episode, Judy Oskam talks with Dr. Maureen Keeley, a leading researcher on end-of-life communication, from Texas State University.
Dr. Maureen Keeley offers a research-based framework for anyone caring for an aging parent, supporting a loved one through illness, or anticipating loss. Listeners will learn what matters most in end-of-life conversations and how small, everyday moments can become the memories that last a lifetime.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How to rethink “final conversations” so you don’t wait until it’s too late
- Why there is no perfect goodbye
- How everyday routines can provide comfort, meaning, and connection at the end of life
- How these conversations help you, not just the person who is dying
The Six Themes of Final Conversations (Research-Based)
- Love messages – expressing love, reassurance, affection, and presence
- Identity messages – affirming strengths, values, and who someone has been in your life
- Spiritual or religious messages – faith, meaning, beliefs about death or the afterlife
- Everyday talk – routine conversations, humor, shared activities, normal life
- Healing difficult relationships – addressing unresolved tension, softening anger, finding peace
- Taking care of the business of death and dying – wishes, living wills, memorial plans, passwords, and practical guidance
Dr. Maureen Keeley is a Professor of Interpersonal Communication at Texas State University. She has studied end-of-life communication for more than two decades.
Check out Dr. Keeley's TEDX talk.
You can find Dr. Keeley and Dr. Yingling's book below:
The Good Goodbye: The Transformative Power of Conversation at the End of Life by Maureen P. Kelley, Ph.D. and Julie M. Yingling, Ph.D.
This episode was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University.
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
January is often framed as a month of restriction—Dry January, less sugar, less indulgence, less everything. But what if January wasn’t about giving things up? What if it was about trying?
In this Try January episode, Judy Oskam weaves together powerful insights from past conversations to explore how meaningful change begins. Experts comment on building identity capital and setting goals, mentorship, creativity, adventure, and kindness. This episode reminds us that change often starts with a choice… and the courage to try.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why trying is powerful
- How everyday choices shape identity and personal growth
- An effective way to think about goals: learning vs. performance
- The lasting impact of mentorship and paying it forward
- How stepping into unfamiliar places can transform who we become
- Why creativity begins with our surroundings
- A gentle reminder to be kind—to others and to yourself
Featured Voices
- Dr. Meg Jay, psychologist and author, on identity capital and why we are shaped by what we do, not just who we think we are. You can hear our podcast interview here.
- Caroline Adams Miller, goal-setting expert, on dreaming boldly and balancing learning goals with performance goals. We discussed Caroline's goal strategy in our 2025 interview.
- Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, on mentorship and paying it forward. I'm honored Dr. Damphousse was my 100th podcast episode.
- Wendy Conklin, artist and founder of Chair Whimsy, on how our environments spark joy and creativity. Wendy wrote the book on creativity - you can find it here.
- Dr. Cliff Redford, veterinarian and global adventurer, on kindness. You can listen to our interview at this link.
- Students Jamin Ochoa and Angie Olmos, reflecting on how studying abroad in Scotland changed their perspective and confidence. Check out my Scotland mini series here.
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement to try something new this January.
Thanks for listening—and here’s to making it a Try January
Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!
Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.
Learn, grow, teach.
Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What is home?
Is it a place, a memory, a landscape—or a journey? In this episode, Judy Oskam explores the transformative meaning of home with Amy Denet Deal. She's the founder of 4 Kinship, Indigenous Futures Forever, and the Diné Skate Garden Project.
Amy’s story is one of remarkable courage and clarity. In her mid-50s, she left the corporate fashion world and returned to her Navajo roots. Her journey home reveals how healing and creativity intersect in powerful ways.
In this episode, Judy and Amy talk about adoption and culture. They both share an adoption connection.
Returning to Her Roots
- Amy shares her early life story of being adopted out of her Navajo community in the 1960s—before the Indian Child Welfare Act.
- Amy describes the moment she chose to “come home” in 2019. Selling everything and driving to New Mexico to reconnect with her culture.
Healing and Identity
- Amy shares about meeting her birth mother for the first time
- .The emotional work of reconnecting with family, community, and heritage.
From Fashion Executive to Indigenous Fashion Leader
- A look inside Amy’s career in corporate fashion and the ethical concerns that pushed her toward sustainable design.
- The founding of 4 Kinship, a brand rooted in Indigenous artistry and community impact.
Creating Spaces for the Next Generation
- Why skateboarding became a tool for youth empowerment, health, and suicide prevention.
- Long-term dreams of a fiber farm—possibly in Scotland—to support her daughter’s fashion future.
- The deep connection between land and clarity of purpose.
Memorable Quote“Home to me is a feeling of calmness and clarity. Coming back to my homelands quieted the noise and helped me understand exactly why I’m here.” - Amy Denet Deal
A Reflection for You
Judy closes the episode with a question for listeners:
What does home mean to you?
Is it a place, a person, a memory—or a journey you're still traveling?
Photo by Shaun Price.
Hi Friend - Thanks for listening!
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
What if celebration isn’t something “extra,” but something essential to living a meaningful, connected life? If you're like me, you're always looking for reasons to celebrate and enjoy life.
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sit down with Dr. R. Jon McGee—anthropologist, author, and longtime Texas State University professor— to explore the topic of celebration. We met at the Live Oak Podcast Studio on the campus of Texas State University.
For more than forty years, Dr. McGee lived with and learned from Maya communities in southern Mexico. He explained how rituals create order in chaotic times and help people navigate change.
Inside Maya Ritual Life
Professor McGee takes us inside ceremonies shaped by rainforest ecosystems and centuries of tradition—
- incense drifting
- prayers spoken in a distinct ritual voice
- balché, a fermented mead used to open a sacred, altered state
He reveals how metaphors woven into healing incantations—birds, winds, heat, and fever—carry cultural memory and symbolic meaning.
Why Rituals Matter in Our Everyday Lives
From Christmas and communion to Thanksgiving tables and graduation, Professor McGee helps us see how our own traditions carry histories and stories forward. These familiar symbols—colors, foods, candles, music—are anchors that help us mark time and feel connected.
How to Bring More Celebration Into Your Life
If you’re craving more meaning, we discuss some practical ways to create moments of celebration:
- Gather the people who matter most
- Choose symbols your group already loves
- Engage all five senses
- Make space for recognition and storytelling
- Keep it small—simple gestures can make a big difference
How do you celebrate? I’d love to hear.
If you enjoyed this episode subscribe, share with a friend who might need to celebrate more often, and leave a review. Tell me the one ritual you’d never give up.
Learn more about Dr. R. Jon McGee here.
Recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University.
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How do sports, culture, and communication shape who we are? In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with University of Alabama Sports Scholar Dr. Kenon Brown.
Dr. Brown is a professor of advertising and public relations, co-director of the Beyond Sports Initiative, and co-author of the book - The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture.
During our conversation we explore how sports reflect American society, how branding and communication shape identity, and how career pivots can open doors to purpose and passion. From the rise of women’s sports to the connection between hip-hop and the NBA, Dr. Brown offers a powerful look at creativity and change through the lens of sport.
In this episode you'll learn:
- The 'perfect storm' moment that connected passion and purpose, resulting in a career change
- How sports mirror American culture — from equality in pay to pop culture and hip-hop
- Why authenticity and consistency matter in personal branding, especially for NIL athletes
- The powerful link between sports, mental health, and communication
- What’s next in global sports: the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics
Quotes - Dr. Kenon Brown
*“It was the perfect storm — the right people at the right time helped me make the pivot.”
“Sports are a microcosm of society. Every major cultural shift is reflected on the field or court.”
“Be authentic. Be consistent. That’s the foundation of a strong personal brand.”
“The intersection of communication, culture, and sports is where real change happens.”*
Resources and Links
-
The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture by Kenon Brown, Josh Dickhaus, and Mia Long Anderson
-
Beyond Sports Initiative, University of Alabama
Dr. Brown kicked off a university lecture series in sports media at Texas State University, coordinated by Professor and Regents' Teacher of Advertising Dr. Mike Devlin.
This interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Texas State University.
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What’s your relationship with money? Do you worry about having enough? Does money guide all of your decisions?
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I talk with Mary Liz Burns about the psychology of money. She has more than two decades of experience in personal finance communications and media. Mary Liz has an MBA with a focus on financial psychology and is a certified senior advisor.
After a successful career in corporate communications and public relations — including 22 years with AARP — Mary Liz realized the missing piece in most money conversations: the human connection. Now, she helps people understand their personal “money stories” and develop healthier, more compassionate relationships with money.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why our relationship with money is emotional, not rational — and how fear and shame can hold us back
- The four money scripts that shape financial behavior
- How childhood experiences and “financial flashpoints” form our money beliefs
- How our relationship with money changes in different stages of life
- Practical steps to begin your own money awareness journey — where to start
Quotes“My goal from now until the day I die is to reduce the fear and shame we have around money — and to help people have open, honest conversations, starting with themselves.” — Mary Liz Burns“Financial education alone is not enough to change behavior. We have to bring the human piece to it.” — Mary Liz Burns
Resources & Links
- Take the free Money Scripts Test (by Dr. Brad Klontz)
- Learn more about Mary Liz Burns and her work in financial psychology https://www.marylizburns.money/
Note: This content is not intended as specific legal or financial advice, and listeners should consider their individual circumstances when applying this information and to seek professional assistance if needed.
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For our 100th episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Damphousse, the 10th president of Texas State University. A sociologist by training, President Damphousse talks candidly about the midnight moment that set the tone for his presidency. He shares his personal journey – from growing up in a trailer court with no plans for college to becoming a university president.
We also discuss the university’s momentum — from a campus master plan to the research trajectory toward R1 and a move to the Pac-12 that reshapes TXST’s national profile.
In this episode you’ll learn:
- Why athletics is the “front porch” of a university
- The power of mentorship and paying it forward
- What belonging looks like in practice: presence, notes of gratitude, and saying “yes” to students
- Highlights of TXST’s 10-year master plan
- Practical advice for students: engage beyond class, build faculty relationships, and find your “why”
Quotes - Dr.Kelly Damphousse
- “You belong here.”
- “If someone poured into you, your job is to pay it forward.”
- “I’m duty-bound to show up — not for me, but because the presidency matters to people.”
Hi Friend - Thanks for listening!
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Do you know your values? You might think you know your values, but are you living your values, right now?
In this solo episode, Judy Oskam reflects on a recent experience she shared with her daughter, Danielle. Together, they attended the Becoming You intensive led by Dr. Suzy Welch at the NYU Stern School of Business. The New York workshop centered on values and purpose. It encouraged participants to explore what matters most and to design a life that aligns with those priorities.
Judy shares insights about tools such as the Values Bridge assessment, the Enneagram, and various aptitude tests. She also includes a short soundbite with Dr. Welch, about advice for new graduates. Later, Dani offers her perspective on how what the process revealed to her.
In this Episode You’ll Learn
- Why self-discovery is a lifelong journey
- How the Values Bridge assessment measures the gap between your current and ideal life
- How Dr. Suzy Welch advises students to begin their careers
- What the “Four Horsemen” framework reveals about barriers to growth
- Dani's insights from the workshop
Quotes
“Self-discovery isn’t a one-time thing. It’s really an ongoing journey.” – Judy Oskam
“You have to know your values. You can’t be guessing.” – Dr. Suzy Welch
“The more you know about yourself, the better you are able to navigate through undiscovered things.” – Danielle Oskam
I hope this episode encourages you to keep learning, reflect on your values, and stay open to growth. Thanks for listening!
Resources and Links
- Suzy Welch – NYU Stern Initiative on Purpose and Flourishing
- Try the Four Horsemen Quiz – a free tool
- Learn more about the Becoming You program and methodology.
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What does it really mean to be free?
In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam sits down with Christian Ray Flores—a high-performance coach, entrepreneur, and author of the Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America: A Love Letter from an Immigrant.
Christian has lived through revolutions and the fall of the Soviet Union. From that perspective, he offers a powerful take on the American spirit and freedom. He also shares how living your brand and leaning into your unique expertise can open the door and make a real impact.
In this episode you’ll learn
- Why freedom is personal power
- How the spirit of America shapes opportunity and resilience
- The risks of trading freedom for comfort and certainty
- How to live your brand and turn your expertise into impact
Contact Christian Ray Flores
- Website
- Book: 10 Reasons to Love America
- X
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In this powerful episode, Ontario veterinarian Dr. Cliff Redford shows us what it truly means to live with passion and a sense of adventure. He's called the Worldwide Vet. Dr. Redford travels the world combining his veterinary practice with global volunteer work. Over the years, he has helped animals and communities in Jamaica, India, Panama, India and Ukraine.
Dr. Cliff's journey proves that change is something to embrace no matter what your age. Whether he's performing surgeries in a war zone, learning to surf, or starting boxing at age 48, Dr. Redford lives life to the fullest. He reminds us it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, take risks.
In This Episode You'll Learn
-Why embracing change fuels growth and resilience
-How travel and service can deepen passion for your profession
-The art of becoming “comfortable with being uncomfortable”
-Why adventure—no matter your age—is the key to life
-The importance of kindness in all forms
Key Takeaways
- Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. By leaving your comfort zone, you expand your skills and passion for life.
- Take a risk to discover a full life – Trying something new later in life, adventure keeps you energized and connected.
Dr. Cliff Redford’s Motto
"Be kind to animals, be kind to each other, and be kind to yourself."
Visit the Dr. Cliff's site: drcliff.ca
Dr. Cliff on Instagram
instagram.com/drcliffworldwidevet
Dr. Cliff on Facebook
facebook.com/drcliffworldwidevet
Twitter - X
x.com/vet905
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Why are companies firing Gen Z employees — and what can be done to help them succeed?
In August, I attended the 2025 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication conference in San Francisco.
My colleague, Dr. Nandini Bhalla of Texas State University, led a stellar panel titled “Why are companies firing Gen Z employees? Workforce Strategies and Solutions for PR’s Next Generation.”
The panel featured an all-star lineup of experts:
- Caitlin Haskins – Vice President of AI, Big Data & Cloud at 10Fold Communications
- Michelle Galey – Washington State University
- Jeffrey Ranta – Coastal Carolina University
- Caitlin Cieslik-Miskimen – University of Idaho
- Moderator - Nandini Bhalla, Texas State University
After the panel, I pulled out my iPhone and asked Caitlin Haskins a couple of questions about what she sees in the workplace. In this short interview, Caitlin shared practical strategies that every Gen Z professional can use to thrive in today’s workplace. The AEJMC Public Relations Division co-sponsored this panel with the Internships & Careers Interest Group.
Caitlin's tips are clear and actionable. Listeners will walk away with 3 strategies they can use immediately.
- Reliability — show up, meet deadlines, and build trust
- Proactive communication — keep projects and teams aligned
- Growth mindset — turn feedback into a tool for long-term success
You can learn more about Caitlin Haskins from her LinkedIn profile and in this Ragan PR Daily article.
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On this episode I talk with Christine Blosdale – expert authority coach and podcaster – about how to overcome imposter syndrome and establish yourself as a leader in your field. Christine offers real-world strategies to boost your confidence and elevate your personal brand.
Christine had a challenging childhood and it taught her resilience and the power of voice. Her mom was a single mother who worked nights. Christine's mother instilled a knowingness in her that her opinion mattered. You'll learn more about her background during our interview.
Whether you’re a business leader or creative professional, this conversation is packed with tools to help you own your expertise.
My Takeaways
1. Move Beyond Imposter Syndrome
- Identify the different ways it can show up
- Shift focus from self-doubt to serving your audience
2. Build a Professional Media Kit
- Include high-quality, professional photos
- Craft a short, impactful bio
- Highlight “as seen on” media mentions to add credibility
3. Be Easy to Feature
- Provide suggested interview topics and questions
- Make it simple for podcast hosts and media outlets to book you
4. Reach the Right Audience
- You don’t need millions of followers—just the right ones
- Focus on resonance over reach
5. Choose Authenticity Over Perfection
- Let go of perfectionism
- Be real and authentic
6. Visibility Matters
- Show up and consistently share your expertise.
💬
“If you’re not seen and heard, you’re not hired.” – Christine Blosdale
📌 Resources & Links
- Christine's Official Website: ExpertAuthorityCoach.com
- Share your story with Judy: judyoskam.com
Hi Friend - Thanks for listening!
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
In this short solo episode, I share some thoughts about my study abroad experience in Scotland. It pushed me and my students out of our comfort zone, but that was a very good thing.
I taught one of the first Edinburgh hub classes for Texas State University based at Queen Margaret University. Our hub programs are short-term study abroad experiences where students earn credit while spending 3-weeks living and learning overseas.
Takeaways
• Students connected with each other while developing deeper connections with themselves
• Examples of Transformative Learning Theory
• Students learned about course content and the local community
• Freedom to explore. Students visited Edinburgh (6 minutes by train) and coastal villages like North Berwick
• New experiences built confidence and positive self-esteem
Homework:
Choose one way to step into something new this week.
What surprised you the last time you tried something new?
How did you grow from the experience?
Want to hear the real story? You can listen to the podcast interviews featuring my students here. They are fantastic!
Hi Friend - Thanks for listening!
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
How do you keep moving forward when the road isn’t clear? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity – Scotland Edition, I sit down with Bety Téllez Mora, Content and Campaigns Officer at Queen Margaret University - Edinburgh. Bety navigates challenges and career pivots—across countries and creative fields.
From journalism to digital storytelling, Bety shares how embracing change, taking risks, and staying curious has helped her shape a meaningful creative journey—one step at a time.
“I was self-conscious about having three degrees and not much experience, but now I see every part of that journey helped me get here.”
Bety opens up about adapting to life abroad, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to say yes—even when the path was unclear. This candid conversation explores what it means to build a career through risk, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Key Takeaways
• Growing up as a diplomat's daughter gave Bety the skills to adapt
• Studying journalism provided a foundation, but an internship revealed her true path
• Balancing perfectionism with practical experience helped her prioritize opportunities outside the classroom
• Learning to embrace uncertainty and recognize that career paths don't need to be linear
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence is important
• Using international experience as a strength rather than seeing it as a limitation
• There's a constant challenge to maintain brand consistency while reflecting the university community
“Even if you don't get it right the first time, that is part of the process.” — Bety Téllez Mora
🎧 Tune in to hear how taking initiative, embracing uncertainty, and saying yes can lead to a career filled with purpose and possibility.
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Study abroad Scotland. An unforgettable experience of culture, courage, and personal growth. Texas State University junior Jamin Ochoa signed up for a public relations class in Scotland and it's been a life-changing experience.
Jamin shares his journey of personal transformation from the campus of Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh.
Key Takeaways
• Jamin connected to his family heritage in Scotland
• Campus-based programs allow students to truly experience living in another country
• Explore Edinburgh Castle, Dean's Village, and the Highlands while finding joy in simple activities
• Study abroad is an opportunity to reinvent and experiment with self-expression - without worrying about others' judgment
• Scotland is surprisingly progressive and open-minded despite its traditional historical image
• Texas State study abroad students build strong bonds and friendships
• Scotland's public transportation system is efficient and fun
• Might explore opportunities to return to Scotland for a master's degree
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Just say yes to opportunities.
Grace White, a rising sophomore public relations major at Texas State University, shares her transformative experiences about her three-week study abroad program in Scotland. Grace was a student in my Intro to Public Relations class at Queen Margaret University. We sat down in the library on campus and I recorded our conversation on my iPhone. We talked about how a classroom presentation evolved into a life-changing journey.
Key Takeaways
• Overcoming imposter syndrome as a first year student considering study abroad
• Surprised by the warmth and friendliness of Scottish locals
• Completing public relations projects with real local businesses
• Exploring Edinburgh's tourist highlights and hidden gems
• Building unexpected friendships with fellow Texas State students
• Learning to embrace mistakes as valuable experiences
• Discovering Calton Hill as a perfect sunset viewing location
• Navigating public transportation and finding adventure in wrong turns
• Pride in being among the first Texas State students at Queen Margaret University
• Taking home a new philosophy of saying "yes" to opportunities
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Education abroad gives students the chance to discover the world beyond their familiar borders. On this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity: Scotland Edition, I had the chance to talk with Angie Olmos. Angie is a sophomore Mass Communication major minoring in International Studies at Texas State University. She's in the Intro to Public Relations class I'm teaching this summer at Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh.
Together we chat about how global experiences shape who we are and prepare us for the future.
Key Takeaways
• Living on campus creates a more authentic, cozy experience
• Developing routine habits like studying at local coffee shops is part of the cultural experience. Angie's favorite is Black Sheep Coffee!
• Weekend travels to North Berwick, the Highlands, and plans for London expand cultural understanding
• Working with local businesses for class projects provides real-world experience
• Collaborative projects highlight individual strengths and allow students to support each other
• Study abroad challenges stereotypes and teaches students not to "judge a book by its cover"
• Traveling independently builds confidence and personal growth
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What’s it like to leave the U.S. for the first time and study in a new country? In this short series I'm highlighting our Texas State University education abroad program in Scotland. Students and faculty spent three weeks living and working on the campus of Queen Margaret University, near Edinburgh, Scotland. Join me as I sit down with students, faculty, and local professionals to capture their stories.
Tori, a sophomore advertising major, shares her journey as a first-time international traveler. From navigating airports solo to building confidence through creative PR projects with local Scottish businesses, Tori’s experience shows how studying abroad can transform your perspective—and your future.
Tune in to hear how Tori made meaningful connections and gained real-world skills that go beyond the classroom.
Key Takeaways:
- Study abroad builds independence and resilience
- Tips for navigating cultural differences and public transportation
- The impact of working on real PR projects in a global setting
- Creating connections through collaborative, creative student work
- Making meaningful connections with classmates through projects like her National Gallery photography series
- Finding confidence in a new environment where Tori could define herself without preconceptions
- Discovering confidence and community in a new environment
You can learn more about our summer Texas State University Edinburgh program here.
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Are you a professor, researcher or writer? Do you battle with distraction and writer's block? If so, a writing retreat might be just what you need to finish your project. Retreats provide academics with distraction-free environments to focus solely on their writing projects, helping them make significant progress in a short time.
While teaching a class at Queen Margaret University in Scotland, I stumbled upon a writing retreat just down the hall from my classroom. I asked Dr. Vani Naik, Researcher Developer at Edinburgh Napier University, for a quick interview on my iPhone. I'm fascinated with the creative process and thought it could make for an interesting podcast episode. Let me know what you think.
"When you're writing, you're writing, and when you're not writing, you're not writing" - Vani Naik
Key Takeaways
• Writing retreats separate participants from daily demands and distractions
• Structured 90-minute writing sessions create focused blocks of productive time
• Creative elements like guided walks, yoga, and puzzles enhance productivity
• Building community and acknowledging participants personally creates a supportive environment
• Sustainable practices academics can incorporate into their regular routines
• Separating writing time from non-writing activities is crucial for productivity
• Creative approaches to academic writing challenge traditional views of academic seriousness
• Participants consistently are surprised at how much they accomplish in short periods
• Setting clear boundaries around writing time (out-of-office replies, phones away) enhances focus
Bio:
Dr Vani Naik is Researcher Developer at Edinburgh Napier University, where she supports researchers with their professional development. She’s particularly interested in supporting career development, as she recognises how much enjoying your work impacts on wellbeing. She’s carved out an enjoyable working life so that the “Sunday Scaries” don’t apply, and works to foster this in others. Apart from curating creative writing retreats, she is also keen to support professional development for researcher developers. She is part of an international committee creating one-to-one mentoring pairs, and a UK scheme for peer mentoring circles.
What Vani loves about her work is that she can create practical impact from her theoretical PhD thesis work on academic career pathways to the professoriate for women engineers. She has also started her own business with a view to sharing creative practices, providing consulting services
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For college grads
In this short solo-episode, I hope to send a message of encouragement to college grads.
Standing at life's crossroads after graduation doesn't mean you need to have all the answers—just take that first step. You've got this.
The path reveals itself through action, so it's important to make a start.
Key Takeaways
• Feeling uncertain is normal and where the significant growth begins
• Life isn't about having a perfect plan, but about learning as you go
• A recent reunion with former Texas Tech University students Traci Balmos and Jarret Mallon reminded me to stay open to change and curiosity
• Growth happens through bold, unprepared action rather than waiting for certainty
• The metaphor of driving uphill—you can't see what's ahead but the view becomes clear as you move forward
• Potential isn't about perfection; it's about perseverance and practice
If this message resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement. If you have a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me at judyoskam.com.
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Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Judy Oskam shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating and delivering her TEDx talk at Texas State University. She turned the microphone over to her long time friend and mentor Carole Barasch about the process, challenges, and insights gained. Earlier in her career, Carole was an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter and public relations professional.
This is an honest conversation about the emotional and strategic work that powers a successful TEDx talk—mentorship, message clarity, and showing up vulnerable.
In this episode, we talk about:
• The application process - it begins months before the actual TEDx event
• How working with multiple coaches helped refine content and delivery
• Creating a "personal advisory board" of mentors and friends for guidance
• Developing a theme: "take action and figure it out along the way"
• Vulnerability as a key component of an impactful presentation
• The importance of pacing, connecting with the audience, and practicing
• The value of having someone "in your corner" during challenging projects
Check out my TEDx talk - Why you should take action - then figure it out.
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Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I talk with Kyle Hawley, founder of Letterpress PLAY and creative director at 26 Keys. Kyle shares how growing up in a multi-generational household shaped her creative journey and her approach to entrepreneurship and motherhood.
🎙️ In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Kyle’s path from a theater and mass communication student at Texas State University to entrepreneur
- How a thesis project on post-WWII playgrounds led to the creation of Letterpress PLAY
- Life lessons from Kyle's grandparents
- Balancing motherhood, art, and business by staying grounded
- Using printmaking to explore the broader archetypes of motherhood
- Unfolding the Rainbow of Motherhood, an exhibition by Kyle Hawley with Flatbed Press
- The power of consistent creative practice: “You have to show up for yourself and do that consistently”
Bio
Kyle Hawley is the founder and creative director of Letterpress PLAY, an Austin-based letterpress studio and stationery store. The studio designs and prints beautiful, high-quality goods, while also curating products from artisans around the world.
Her mission with Letterpress PLAY is twofold: to share the heritage craft of letterpress printing and to foster community and play for everyone through her products. Kyle also serves as the creative director of the award-winning 26 Keys Productions, an Austin-based film and television company known for producing cinematic, character-driven stories.
As a fine artist, Kyle explores the topics of beginnings and closures regarding developmental phases of life through photographic technics, printing, and textiles. Current exhibitions include the Wichita Falls Museum of Art and Flatbed Press. She is a graduate of The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA and earned her first Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, Broadcast Journalism, and Theater at Texas State University. Her diverse educational background enriches her work across multiple creative fields. Additionally, Kyle serves as a board of trustees for Sarah Lawrence College.
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Andy Bell had a life changing event that rocked his world. And now he's working to change the world of education. As CEO of Thinkery, Andy shares his vision for revolutionizing education by combining AI technology with joyful learning experiences.
During our conversation you'll learn:
• how a brain cancer diagnosis gave Bell clarity and urgency about his mission to transform education
• that our traditional education system was designed for industrial era skills, not the critical thinking needed today
• the statistics that show 95% of preschoolers test as creative geniuses while less than 10% of college students do
• how parents can model a growth mindset by learning alongside children
• about a revolutionary new model that combines formal education with museum experiences
• how AI can free educators to focus on nurturing creativity instead of delivering content
Check out Andy Bell's TEDx Talk: Education Revolution: How AI and Joy will Transform Learning
You can learn more about Thinkery, a nonprofit organization that celebrates play-based STEAM learning, at this link.
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Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Mark Paz II shares his journey from shy kid to award-winning communication professor and TEDx coordinator and coach at Texas State University. He's on a mission to build strong relationships and develop good people.
Mark was my TEDx coach and I think he's a rock star. Thanks to his coaching, I was able to find my voice, craft my message and deliver my talk from the red carpet.
During our interview, you will learn how:
• Growing up with parents who emphasized service and education created the foundation for Mark's life
• Moving to a small school taught Mark essential relationship-building skills
• Using a strength-based approach to coaching helps people overcome their fears and deliver powerful messages
• Finding the redeeming quality in everyone builds connection and understanding
• Stepping outside your comfort zone and "doing it afraid" leads to growth and unexpected opportunities
• Maintaining a positive but realistic mindset helps navigate life's challenges
You can find out more about Mark Paz here.
Check out my TEDx talk and learn why you should take action - then figure it out.
If you enjoyed this interview, please rate and review the show. It really does help the algorithms. Remember, if you've got a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me at judyoskam.com.
Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show.
Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
On this episode, I'm excited to share my interview with J.R. Gonzales. J.R. shares his remarkable journey from growing up in South Texas to becoming a successful entrepreneur, speaker, and podcaster. He's also a proud Texas State University graduate.
J.R. recognizes his Latino heritage as a superpower that changed the trajectory of his life and career. He traces his family roots to the 1700's and says 'my ancestors never crossed the border, the border crossed them."
A passionate and engaging storyteller, J.R. Gonzales talks about the importance of family, culture and education.
You will learn how:
- J.R. navigated Texas State University in the late 1970s as one of the few Latino students
- Family can support a growth mindset
- Education is a tool to combat discrimination
- Why the Latino Business Report podcast was created
- J.R. met six US presidents and stood on the Great Wall of China 13 times
- Confidence and social intelligence are key elements of success
- Asking the right questions shapes your future
- Swimming with Ralph, the swimming pig, impacted the course of J.R.'s career
If you've got a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me and let's connect.
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Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
In this solo-episode, I share some insight about the graduate class I'm teaching - Creative Problem Solving in Mass Communication. I designed the class to connect students with creative entrepreneurs, business and media leaders. This semester, my students have met with three fantastic guest lecturers.
- Wendy Conklin, founder of Chair Whimsy
- Dr. Carrie Angell, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau
- Fred Poston III, Exec. Director - Texas Media Production Alliance
When we open ourselves to different perspectives, we unlock powerful creative resources for personal and professional growth.
Key Points:
• Creativity is a process that can be learned
• A growth mindset and curiosity leads to creativity
• Creative processes don't need to be neat to be authentic and effective
• Embracing uncertainty can transform negative situations into positive catalysts
Think about how you can apply these creative insights to your own life.
How might you bring more creativity to the problems you're facing and take creative action today?
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Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.
Happy Valentine's Day!
In this short solo episode, I celebrate the support we receive from friends, family, and colleagues. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the kindness that helps us navigate life’s challenges and embrace change.
Key Takeaways
• A grocery store encounter highlights the hidden struggles of others
• Navigating change requires a strong support system
• Friends and colleagues play vital roles in our journeys
• Family support is invaluable during tough times
• Kindness is an action, not just a feeling
• A reminder we are not alone in our struggles
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Are you navigating your 20s? or know someone who is? Many young adults in their 20s think their life should be carefree and non-stop fun. We've all heard that these should be 'the best years of your life.' But in reality, the decade of your 20s is challenging and often not the happiest time of life.
On this episode I talk with Dr. Meg Jay, a developmental clinical psychologist, and faculty member at the University of Virginia. She's an expert in the crucial challenges young adults face in their 20s regarding mental health, identity, and relationships.
Through valuable insights and personal anecdotes, Dr. Jay emphasizes the importance of using this decade to build identity capital and foster supportive relationships.
Key Topics:
• The significance of the 20s as a crucial developmental period
• Understanding and building identity capital
• Normalizing common mental health challenges in young adulthood
• The importance of relationships and social capital for support
• Emotional maturity and managing anxiety in your 20s
• Debunking the "best years of your life" myth
• Practical advice for navigating this complex decade
Bio:
Meg Jay, PhD, is a developmental clinical psychologist who specializes in twentysomethings. She is the author of The Twentysomething Treatment, The Defining Decadeand Supernormal. Her books have been translated into more than a dozen languages and her work has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review and on NPR, BBC and-- maybe most important for her audience--Tik Tok.
A New York Times profile called Dr. Jay "the patron saint of striving youth" and her TED talk “Why 30 Is Not the New 20” is among the most watched to date. Dr. Jay earned a doctorate in clinical psychology, and in gender studies, from the University of California, Berkeley. She is on faculty at the University of Virginia and maintains a private practice in Charlottesville.
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Goal-Setting for Women: Understanding your Strengths with Caroline Adams Miller - Part 2
In part two of my interview with Caroline Adams Miller, she explores goal setting for women. We talk about gender differences and what women can do to achieve their dreams.
The episode explores how women can effectively achieve their big goals by understanding their character strengths and confiding in the right supportive networks. Carolyn Adams Miller shares valuable insights into goal setting, the significance of a strong support system, and practical steps for personal growth.
In this episode, you will learn:
• Gender differences in goal achievement
• The importance of confiding in the right people for support
• Why women benefit from a mastermind group
• The difference between learning goals and performance goals
• Understanding and utilizing character strengths for success
• Empowering conversations about strengths with family and friends
• Resources for listeners to assess and leverage their strengths
You can take the VIA Character Strength Survey here. The survey is free.
Bio:
For over 30 years, Caroline Adams Miller has been a trailblazer in advancing these fields, helping individuals and organizations reach their most ambitious goals and improve overall wellbeing. She was among the first to earn a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) from the University of Pennsylvania in 2006, a program pioneered by Dr. Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology. Caroline also graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, laying the groundwork for her future achievements in
psychology and personal development. She is a black-belt martial artist and a Masters swimmer.
Caroline is the author of nine influential books, including:
• My Name is Caroline (Doubleday 1988, Gurze 2000, Cogent 2014), a pioneering recovery memoir that has given hope to countless individuals battling eating disorders.
• Getting Grit (SoundsTrue 2017), which explores the science of perseverance and was recognized as one of the “top ten books that will change your life” in 2017 and one of the “top 25 books that will help you find your purpose” in 2023.
• Creating Your Best Life (Sterling 2009, 2021), a #1-ranked book on goal-setting that combines the science of success with research on happiness and was the first mass-market book to bridge these fields using Locke and Latham’s goalsetting theory.
• Big Goals (Wiley, 2024), which offers an accessible, updated framework for
achieving significant goals, incorporating modern research on mindset, grit,
artificial intelligence, and resilience. It provides practical strategies for both
personal and organizational success, grounded in 15 years of new research in
positive psychology. This book is destined to change the way people view
goalsetting and has been selected as a must-read for The Next Big Idea Club.
Her books have been translated into multiple languages, including German, Korean, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian, reaching a global audience
You can find more information about Caroline Adams Miller
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Big Goals with Caroline Adams Miller - Part 1
In this episode, Caroline Adams Miller explores effective goal setting and presents a research-backed approach to achieving personal and professional aspirations.
In this episode, you will learn:
• The limitations of the SMART goal system
• Introduction of Locke and Latham's goal-setting theory
• Key differences between performance and learning goals
• Importance of goal clarity in personal and professional settings
• Real-life examples of goal-setting failures
• Using the Oura Ring to maximize health and well-being
• Advice for cultivating a growth mindset
• Encouragement to embrace challenges and setbacks as learning experiences
• Insights on tracking progress and measuring success
Bio:
For over 30 years, Caroline Adams Miller has been a trailblazer in advancing these fields, helping individuals and organizations reach their most ambitious goals and improve overall wellbeing. She was among the first to earn a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) from the University of Pennsylvania in 2006, a program pioneered by Dr. Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology. Caroline also graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, laying the groundwork for her future achievements in
psychology and personal development. She is a black-belt martial artist and a Masters swimmer.
Caroline is the author of nine influential books, including:
• My Name is Caroline (Doubleday 1988, Gurze 2000, Cogent 2014), a pioneering recovery memoir that has given hope to countless individuals battling eating disorders.
• Getting Grit (SoundsTrue 2017), which explores the science of perseverance and was recognized as one of the “top ten books that will change your life” in 2017 and one of the “top 25 books that will help you find your purpose” in 2023.
• Creating Your Best Life (Sterling 2009, 2021), a #1-ranked book on goal-setting that combines the science of success with research on happiness and was the first mass-market book to bridge these fields using Locke and Latham’s goalsetting theory.
• Big Goals (Wiley, 2024), which offers an accessible, updated framework for
achieving significant goals, incorporating modern research on mindset, grit,
artificial intelligence, and resilience. It provides practical strategies for both
personal and organizational success, grounded in 15 years of new research in
positive psychology. This book is destined to change the way people view
goalsetting and has been selected as a must-read for The Next Big Idea Club.
Her books have been translated into multiple languages, including German, Korean, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian, reaching a global audience
You can find more information about Caroline Adams Miller here.
Big Goals: The Science of Setting Them, Achieving Them, and Creating Your Best Life.
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover the show. Here’s to a year full of change and creativity.
What if a career change could unlock your creativity and transform your life? That's what happened to Content Creator and Podcaster Kelsey Graves. She is the creator and host of the Trip Tales podcast.
Kelsey inspires listeners with her journey from marketing to content creation. During our conversation, Kelsey showcases the power of embracing change while nurturing creativity. She shares her experiences of manifesting dreams, family travel adventures, and navigating the gig economy. Kelsey encourages others to take baby steps towards their passions.
In this episode, you will learn:
• How Kelsey pivoted her career from advertising to social media
• The importance of transferable skills
• How to find your passion and make a career work for your lifestyle
• The significance of manifestation resulting in a memorable trip to a Taylor Swift concert
• How you can use social media to engage authentically with your audience
• The importance of taking baby steps to move your career forward
• Social media tips to promote your online brand
Kelsey's Bio:
Kelsey Graves is the host of the Trip Tales Podcast, where she shares real travel stories and inspires her engaged community of travel lovers. A mom of three and a seasoned travel content creator, Kelsey has spent 12 years turning her passion for exploration into a thriving career. With a dedicated following on Instagram at @kelsey_graves, she shares vacation destinations, family travel tips, and viral travel Reels that drive real bookings and vacation plans. Kelsey's work has lead her to partner with top brands like JW Marriott, Dollywood, and Dagne Dover, making her a trusted voice in the travel industry.
Kelsey Graves website:
https://www.triptalespodcast.com/
You can listen to our Amsterdam Taylor Swift trip interview here. Kelsey interviews me and Wendy Conklin of Chair Whimsy about our adventure.
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In this solo episode, I share some personal insight about how we can start 2025 and embrace new beginnings.
Takeaways
- Embrace new beginnings
- Let go of the past to make room for new starts
- Find opportunities to make a new start in your day
- Recognize and celebrate moments of joy
- Give yourself permission to begin again
- Think tiny. Take a small step forward
Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year.
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover the show. Here’s to a year full of change and creativity.
As 2024 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible conversations we've had this year. In this short solo episode, I’m revisiting some of the most impactful interviews that touched on leadership, resilience, health, and personal growth. These episodes have sparked new insights, challenged old paradigms, and shared inspiring stories that I hope have resonated with you and contributed to your own journey of self-discovery and transformation.
When I set out to bring these conversations to life, my goal was simple: to provide listeners with tools, inspiration, and perspectives that help embrace change and design the life they want. It’s been an incredible year of growth—both for me and, I hope, for you, too.
As we wrap up 2024, I want to take a moment to thank you for being part of this journey. I wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season.
Thank you for listening, and I look forward to what 2025 will bring.
With gratitude,
Judy
Episodes mentioned include:
Leadership Playbook
Linda Fogg Phillips - Pearl Habits
Glen Lubbert - Sleep for Success
Dr. Nydia Tijerina Darby - Therapeutic Yoga Works
Celebrating 93 years
Dutch Dreams with Connie Dassen
AI's Impact on your career - Tim Hayden
Trip Tales Podcast featuring Wendy Conklin and Judy Oskam
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Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping our world and what it means for your future career? I'm certainly following this topic along with my university colleagues.
Join me for an enlightening conversation with TIM HAYDEN, CEO of Brain+Trust Partners and Texas State University alumnus, as we dissect the rapid evolution of AI. Discover how intuitive models like Perplexity are transforming the way we access information and why hands-on experimentation with AI tools is crucial to understanding their full potential. We also explore how students and faculty can harness AI to enhance their academic endeavors while maintaining the integrity of their educational experiences.
In this episode, Tim draws a fascinating parallel between the historical impact of the shipping container on global trade and the revolution AI promises to bring to various sectors. We discuss the importance of adopting a growth mindset and empathy to successfully navigate technological advancements.
And, as I do with all my guests, I asked Tim about his strengths and natural talents. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Resources:
Contact Tim Hayden on LinkedIn
The Box: How the Shipping Container Made the World Smaller and the World Economy Bigger by Marc Levinson
The Signals are Talking: Why Today's Fringe is Tomorrow's Mainstream by Amy Webb
Quantitative Futurist Amy Webb
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I’m excited to share my interview with Conny Dassen. I met Conny in The Netherlands….she and my husband went to high school together and have been friends for decades. I interviewed Conny from the charming setting of her historic farmhouse in eastern Holland, near the German border.
Career
Join us as we explore the heartwarming and adventurous life of Conny Dassen, whose career journey has taken her from busy Amsterdam to the tranquil countryside of rural eastern Holland. Conny’s diverse professional background includes positions in the hotel industry, a travel company, a car rental agency, an employment firm and in television entertainment. Her late father was award-winning filmmaker and director Jan Dassen. Throughout her varied career, Conny’s unwavering passion for human interaction guided her to find roles that connected her with others. Now retired, Connie shares her reflections on balancing her love for people with her need for solitude and nature.
Love
Can a rekindled high school romance lead to happily-ever-after nearly five decades later? In this episode, you'll hear Conny and JanTon's compelling love story, their travel adventures, and their dream to immigrate to Australia. They were recently married on their farm.
Key Takeaways
- Connect with people, be open to new people and experiences
- Create a home that let's you live like you're on holiday
- Talk with the elderly to learn history
- Talk with young people, they are the future
- Love might be right in front of you
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Are you training for the next decade? Can therapeutic yoga revolutionize the way we approach back pain and functional mobility?
Join us for a captivating conversation with Dr. Nydia Tijerina Darby, a physical therapist and therapeutic yoga specialist. Dr. Darby is always training for the next decade. Discover how Nydia’s passion for movement helped her combat anxiety and depression, setting her on a path to a rewarding career that blends physical therapy and yoga.
Nydia Tijerina Darby is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga Specialist and Certified Yoga Therapist. She is an experienced yoga educator, writer, published author, and international presenter on Therapeutic Yoga Lifestyle practices.
Dr. Darby developed the Therapeutic Astanga Method© over 40 years and is the Owner & Creative Director of the Open Hand Institute and Nydia’s Yoga Therapy Studio in San Antonio, Texas. Nydia offers continuing education to clinicians in various fields introducing integrative methods of practicing into their lives and clinical work. She also provides community access to therapeutic yoga through her studio.
During our conversation we break down common misconceptions about yoga, challenging the idea that you need to be extremely flexible or fit a certain mold to benefit from its practice. Nydia shares the reasons why she wrote her book "Therapeutic Yoga Works:A Gentle Approach to Eliminating Back Pain and Improving Functional Mobility for Life." Her book is dedicated to making yoga accessible to everyone, emphasizing inclusivity and body positivity. We talk about the gentle yet effective methods she teaches to alleviate back pain and improve functional mobility, all backed by scientific research.
Dr. Nydia collaborates with faculty at The University of Texas Health in San Antonio on scientific research. Her research, with Dr. Amelie Ramirez, focuses on therapeutic yoga for cancer survivors. Their research found that yoga can be as effective as traditional exercise in improving health outcomes for cancer survivors. Their study revealed significant improvements in respiratory capacity, mental health, and reduced inflammation. We also talk about the importance of self-care for clinicians and the integration of therapeutic yoga into physical therapy practices. In 'preparing for the next decade,' Dr. Darby promotes preventative care to achieve holistic health and balance.
You can find Dr. Darby's book here: "THERAPEUTIC YOGA WORKS: A Gentle Approach to Eliminating Back Pain and Improving Functional Mobility for Life."
Therapeutic Yoga Lifestyle Immersions, Therapeutic Yoga Trainings & Medical Continuing Education. The Open Hand Institute.
You can watch some of Dr. Nydia's videos on her YouTube channels:
https://www.youtube.com/@openhandinstitute
https://www.youtube.com/@NydiasYogaTherapy
https://nydiasyogatherapy.com/
Online scheduling for on-site and livestream classes and video on demand
https://app.ubindi.com/Nydia.Darby
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Have you ever wanted or needed to change your life and wondered how to do it? Well, this interview may be for you.
On this episode, I'm excited to share my conversation with Elisabeth Sharp McKetta. Author of 13 books, Liz teaches writing for Harvard and Oxford and is the founder of the Book Year Writer's Circle.
McKetta's latest book is entitled Edit your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World. Elisabeth knows about what she writes. During our interview, she shares the story of her own major life edit.
You can find out more information about Liz, on her website.
Key Takeaways:
- Intentional Living: Elisabeth emphasizes the importance of living with intentionality. Much like editing in writing clarifies and refines, intentional living helps us clarify our priorities and align our actions accordingly.
- The Power of Editing: Drawing from her background as a writer and teacher, Elisabeth discusses how editing principles can be applied to life.
- Elisabeth's Journey: Elisabeth shares her personal journey of undergoing a significant life edit. This experience forms the core of her insights into navigating change and making intentional choices.
- Her book, Edit Your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World. The framework is examine, edit and enjoy.
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This is a Happy Birthday episode. Join me for an unforgettable conversation with my incredible mother, Joan Barnes, as she celebrates her 93rd birthday.
Hear about the early years of her marriage to my dad, their adventures during his Navy service, and their 1st year together in Bermuda. Joan's stories offer a unique perspective on the wisdom, love, and resilience that have been the backbone of our family for generations.
In this heartwarming episode, Mom and I dive deep into the fabric of our family, exploring the joys and challenges that come with seeing grandchildren grow and great-grandchildren arrive.
My Mom shares her secret to a long and happy marriage—embracing individuality and finding someone who makes you a better person. We reflect on our unique family and the importance of being kind. This episode is a testament to cherishing life's blessings and staying positive amidst life's ups and downs. We both agree that life can be really messy - but it's important to keep moving forward.
Key Takeaways
- Celebrate each person's unique qualities
- Find a partner who makes you a better person
- Kindness is key
- Be good examples for your children
- Build a solid family foundation
Have you ever felt the ground beneath you shift so profoundly, it alters the course of your life?
Peiming Sun, known as Sunny, certainly has.
From her days as a molecular biologist to her transformative journey to become a holistic lifestyle mentor, Sunny's story is one of self-discovery and resilience.
Sunny applies ancient wisdom and modern science to help her mid-aged women clients change the story narratives and raise awareness about mind-body connection at the genetic level so that they can live with more energy, creativity and joy. Her Tiny Habits course is called Happiness Habits for People In Transition.
Today's episode takes you on a remarkable journey, where Sunny opens up about navigating the challenges of raising a special needs child and going through a difficult marriage.
Navigating Life's Changes:
- Sunny shares her journey from East to West, from a science-focused career to embracing spirituality and self-employment.
- She emphasizes the importance of experiencing change.
Transition to Holistic Coaching:
- Facing burnout while balancing work and family responsibilities, Sunny found ways to prioritize her well-being.
- She discusses her transition to coaching, integrating the Tiny Habits Method during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eastern and Western Tools:
- Judy and Sunny discuss the integration of Eastern practices, such as meditation and mindfulness, with Western lifestyle to reduce stress and increase happiness.
- We discuss why ancient practices may be undervalued in Western society.
Tiny Habits Coaching:
- Sunny explains the ABCs of Tiny Habits: Anchor, Behavior, and Celebration, emphasizing the power of celebrating small achievements to rewire the brain and boost motivation.
Finding Alignment and Flow:
- Sunny shares her framework "SLOW" (Self-awareness, Lifestyle, Openness, Wisdom) to help individuals align with their energy flow. SLOW emphasizes the significance of acceptance and finding one's unique path.
Heart-Brain Coherence Technique:
- During our interview, Sunny shares a simple practice for calming the mind called Heart-Brain Coherence. The technique involves heart focus, heart breathing, and heart feeling, as a way to reduce anxiety and connect with one's energy.
You can contact Sunny at https://www.keysforprosperityclub.com
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'As a functional medicine doctor, I have an opportunity of 20 to 30 years, before someone develops symptoms, to help them change, because a lot of the preventive strategies that we use for prevention of Dementia are lifestyle related.'
- Dr. Shabnam Das Kar
Dr. Shabnam Das Kar transformed her medical career so she could help her patients avoid Dementia. Before transitioning to functional medicine, Dr. Kar was practicing as an obstetrician gynecologist for more than 20 years in Mumbai. She lives in Calgary, Canada, and Mumbai, India.
On this episode, Dr. Kar shares her extraordinary shift from traditional obstetrics and gynecology to a more holistic practice with a focus on brain health. She takes an integrative approach to healthy aging, emphasizing the deep connections between our body's systems. You'll learn about the importance of the brain and how to develop tiny habit recipes to improve your overall health.
As a medical doctor, a brain health coach and a certified Tiny Habits coach, Dr. Kar helps people improve their focus, get rid of brain fog and prevent dementia down the line. Together we talk about the Fogg Behavior Model, developed by BJ Fogg, founder of the Stanford University Behavior Design Lab. Healthy habits can lead to profound improvements in brain health and, subsequently, your overall sense of well-being. Shabnam and I were trained in behavior design by Dr. BJ Fogg and Linda Fogg-Phillips.
Dr. Kar is determined to help her patients avoid dementia by creating healthy habits. She shares some examples in our conversation. She's also on the cutting edge of research into hypertension.
This episode isn't just about the brain; it's an invitation to learn lifestyle enhancements that start tiny and have big results. Reach out to us for more information about how to create habits for healthy aging and celebrate your success.
You can connect with Dr. Kar at drkarmd.com
"Sleep isn't everything, but it impacts everything." - Glen Lubbert
Peak performance in life and business often starts with the foundation of a good night's sleep. Entrepreneur Glen Lubbert understands - first hand - the transformative influence that prioritizing sleep has on energy and focus.
A technology serial entrepreneur, Glen Lubbert is a certified sleep and behavior design expert, trained in mindfulness, nervous system management, and the Tiny Habits® and Thrive Global methodologies. He founded Stamina Lab to help people improve energy, focus, and resilience through data-informed sleep and health coaching.
Stamina Lab's two-week bootcamp stands as a testament to the power of 'Tiny Habits', demonstrating that small, intentional actions, like giving your phone its own bedtime, can lead to profound improvements in rest and, by extension, daily life.
In the ever-evolving odyssey of sleep and habit formation, Glen shares how cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and the discipline of a consistent wake-up time are essential in harmonizing our internal clocks. We recognize the patience required as sleep patterns recalibrate, bolstered by self-compassion and the recognition that sleep optimization is a continuous journey, not a destination.
This episode inspired me to rethink the role of sleep in my life. You can connect with Glen and Stamina Lab for more information about their pioneering approach to wellness.
Thank you for joining us on Stories of Change and Creativity – We appreciate you leaving a review and any feedback.
Glen Lubbert's website
Stamina Lab
Restful Revolution 14-Day Reset
https://staminalab.io/restful-challenge/
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Challenge and change are a part of life. And it's often difficult to find the strength to carry on and keep moving forward.
In this episode, Linda Fogg-Phillips shares her personal story of resilience and determination. She faced the triple blow of a family business collapse during the 2008 financial crisis, the heart-wrenching loss of her son Garrett and the death of her husband. These tragic events eventually led to the creation of the Pearl Habits Method.
The Pearl Habit Method was created by BJ Fogg Ph.D. and developed by Linda Fogg-Phillips as a way to implement behavior change through small, easy steps. During our interview, you'll hear some of Linda's most successful Pearl Habits. Pearl Habits are simple. There are two parts: the irritant and the pearl.
Linda Fogg-Phillips has spent more than 30 years studying health behaviors, including nutrition, fitness, and mental health. She is on a mission to help others live a happier and healthier life. As the CEO and Co-Founder of the Tiny Habits® Academy, Linda's work focuses on behavior change and habit design. She is a regular guest lecturer at Stanford University and is a featured family health expert in the media and in publications.
As the mother of eight children, Linda has had her own behavior change and habit design laboratory for more than 40 years. During our interview, Linda and I talk about grief, the power of choice and gratitude. She always tells her children, "Be better, not bitter." During tragedy, Linda worked hard to be her 'best self' for her children.
BIO
Fogg-Phillips has a master’s degree in Health Promotion and Exercise Physiology. She has spent more than 35 years studying health behaviors, including nutrition, fitness, and mental health. Linda has virtually coached over 15,000 people worldwide. She is recognized by the American Council on Exercise as an expert in virtual coaching, habit formation and behavior change. She is a contributing author and expert for the ACE Behavior Change Certification Program.
Linda is an international author, public speaker, and consultant. She is the author of two books about understanding the online behavior of adolescents; Facebook for Parents and Facebook for Educators. Linda is the host of the podcast, Pearl Habits; Creating beauty and positivity from life’s challenges.
Fogg-Phillips is a featured social media and family health expert in the media and in publications such as the New York Times, CNN, ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC. During 2009 - 2013, Linda was the adolescent behavior expert and online safety consultant for Facebook, Inc. Linda was commissioned by Facebook to write their first Facebook Online Safety Guide for Educators. Linda is a regular guest lecturer at Stanford University.
Find out more about Pearl Habits here.
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Ok - now you know your strengths and natural talents. You understand the proven formula for creating habit recipes. You also know why it's important to practice compassion for others and yourself. What's next? It's time to take action.
In part 5 of this short audio series, I focus on how you can 'take action' to chart your own path and create your Leadership Playbook.
Here's my 4-step process:
1. Discover your strengths
2. Understand the science of change
3. Practice compassion and
4. Take action.
Topics:
- Gallup CiftonStrengths Assessment
- Free High 5 Test - strengths
- Break down the process
- Celebrate each step
- Review your calendar or planner
- Make sleep a priority
- Professional development is personal development
Experts mentioned in this episode include:
- BJ Fogg, Stanford University Behavior Design Lab Founder. NY Times bestselling author of Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything
- Glen Lubbert, Stamina Lab Founder and Tiny Habits Coach
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In part 4 of this short audio series, the focus is on COMPASSION.
Here's my 4-step Leadership Playbook:
1. Discover your strengths
2. Understand the science of change
3. Practice compassion and
4. Take action.
Throughout my career, I've earned how important it is for leaders to practice compassion and self-compassion. It makes a difference in the workplace and at home. But sometimes practicing self-compassion is easier said than done.
Dr. Kristin Neff is a pioneer in the study of self-compassion. She's on the educational psychology faculty at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Neff shares some great resources about compassion on her website. In this episode, I summarize the key elements of self-compassion. You can read Dr. Neff's detailed description of self-compassion here.
Topics:
Compassion vs. Self-Compassion
Self-care
Your role as a leader
Growth opportunities
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In part 3 of this short audio series, the focus is on the science of change.
Here's my 4-step leadership playbook:
1. Discover your strengths
2. Understand the science of change
3. Practice compassion and
4. Take action.
Watch this short video by Dr. BJ Fogg.
Topics:
Fogg Behavior Design
Fogg Behavior Model
B=MAP
Tiny Habit Recipe (A-B-C)
Emotions create habits
Thrive Global - Microsteps
Tiny Habits Academy
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In part 2 of this short audio series, the focus is on discovering and understanding your strengths and natural talents.
Here's my 4-step leadership playbook:
1. Discover your strengths
2. Understand the science of change
3. Practice compassion and
4. Take action.
Topics:
Gallup CiftonStrengths Assessment
Donald Clifton
The 4 Domains - Executing, Influencing, Relationship Bulding, Strategic Thinking
Dial up your strengths
Dealing with weaknesses
Communicating strengths
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I'm excited to share this 5-part series, Create your Leadership Playbook. Whether you're a seasoned leader looking to refine your approach or someone just stepping into your career, this short audio series is designed to empower you with actionable insights and strategies. Let me guide you through the process and help you generate some ideas for your journey.
Here's my 4-step leadership playbook:
1. Discover your strengths
2. Understand the science of change
3. Practice compassion and
4. Take action.
Topics:
Segment overview
What's your Why?
What's your timeline?
Leadership styles
Mindset
Your personal advisory board
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Nothing can change your life like an injury. It’s challenging - both mentally and physically. I’ve experienced this firsthand. I fell and broke my ankle at the end of August and realized I had a lot to learn about recovery. It became a creative challenge for me - so I reached out to an expert.
On this episode I’m excited to share my conversation with Toronto-based functional exercise and health expert GEOFF GIRVITZ. He’s also a Tiny Habits® certified coach. Geoff and I talk via Zoom about the mindset and physical challenges that come with an injury and the rehab that follows. He shares his proven framework for recovery along with some exercise and nutrition tips.
BIO
Geoff is the host of The Dad Strength Podcast, the founder of Bang Personal Training in Toronto, and a father. He explores the topics of health, mindfulness, and fatherhood through writing, The Dad Strength Podcast, and by hosting weekly calls for men who want to be healthy, present, intentional dads.
https://dadstrength.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thedadstrengthpodcast/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffgirvitz/
For more information about Tiny Habits®, check out the book:
Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything by BJ Fogg.
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Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in your career? Longing for purpose in your work and life? You're not alone. In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of playing to your strengths.
On this episode our guest is CHARLOTTE BLAIR, a seasoned Gallup certified strengths coach and the author of "Career Unstuck: How to Play to Your Strengths to Find Freedom and Purpose in Your Work Again." You can purchase the book on Amazon and various platforms.
Charlotte Blair is one of the longest-established and most experienced Gallup®-accredited Strengths coaches in Australia. She works with individuals and teams across the world to discover and apply their strengths to meet their goals. Charlotte describes herself as a proud dyslexic with amazing superpowers. She is a retired equestrian, a bee keeper, a mother of two grown boys, a wife and a social butterfly.
Charlotte's book, Career Unstuck, is born from her experience as someone who left the corporate nine-to-five, and all the trappings that come with that, to discover her unique talents and strengths.
BIO:
Charlotte has been a Gallup-Certified coach since 2014 and is also an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC). After transitioning from a sales role for one the world largest IT companies, she now runs two successful businesses and partners with other coaches and learning organizations to deliver great outcomes. Charlotte is a founding partner in The Strengths Partners, as well as a coach and mentor to other global coaches www.charlotteblair.com.au She is dedicated to helping people get their career unstuck and love their work again.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotteblair/
www.careerunstuck.com.au
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How do we help our children succeed academically in a world that's increasingly challenging?
On this episode, I talk with JENNIFER LEE, Assistant Director of the Tiny Habits Academy, and Mom. Jennifer takes us back to her journey as a young teacher, her transition into a behavior design specialist and her role at the Tiny Habits Academy, unpacking her experiences along the way.
Jennifer's expertise comes to life as she discusses the importance of creating daily routines, tailored to each child's unique needs and preferences. Drawing from her own journey homeschooling her kids, she shares how she's used behavior design to create 'Tiny Habit recipes' with her children. To illustrate the impact of these methods, Jennifer gives us a glimpse into managing her son who grapples with strong emotions and her daughter who dealt with test anxiety.
Need more proof of how transformative Tiny Habits can be? Jennifer shares a personal success story. Her sixth-grade daughter picked up the violin, and through the creation of a small, specific practice habit and celebrating small wins, she went from panic to performing at the Kennedy Center.
Through Jennifer's experiences and insights, we learn that academic success goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. It's about creating Tiny Habits that stick, recognizing each child's unique learning style, and most importantly, celebrating the wins along the way.
BIO
Jennifer Lee is the assistant director of the Tiny Habits Academy, where she helps train and certify coaches in the Tiny Habits method. She has an M.Ed in teaching and learning and 20+ years of experience in childhood, secondary, and adult education. She has a life-long fascination with how our learning shapes our behavior and our behavior shapes our learning.
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Don't we all want to feel younger? I know I sure do. Aging is part of life. But HOW we age makes a difference. Community is also an important component of aging younger. On this episode, I talk with Tiny Habits Certified Coach JULIE BERGFELD about her journey into the world of wellness coaching. I also ask Julie to share some tips for growing younger.
JULIE BERGFELD coaches adults 50 years and older to feel their youngest. She changes their relationship with food, movement and mindfulness. Through her signature SOAR methodology, Julie guides her clients to lasting success.
An accomplished marathon and ultra-marathon runner, she was once the USATF Women’s 50K Trail champion. The cumulative stress to both body and mind took its toll and she vowed to learn to heal herself. Although her degrees in French Literature and Journalism hadn’t prepared her for it, as an avid learner she became a Human Potential coach, Certified Personal Trainer, Yoga Teacher, Nutritionist and Human Movement Specialist in addition to being a Certified Tiny Habits coach. Ultimately, she founded her own yoga studio Metro Power Yoga where she applied all her wisdom and was considered THE place for athletes to chill out.
"I want to be fully functional until my dying day." - Julie BergfeldJulie has been a guest on the podcast Mindful Money and a guest expert on several Tiny Habits Academy Panels. She is a sought-after teacher, workshop facilitator and speaker on topics related to sustenance, mindset, movement and sleep.
Related Links:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-bergfeld-8a9138/
Facebook - Facebook.com/juliebergfeldcoaching
instagram - instagram.com/juliebergfeldcoaching
Tiny Habits Academy
Julie Bergfeld's Tiny Habits Coach Listing
Join me for a conversation with Anna Orenstein-Cardona, a certified financial educator, author, and Puerto Rico native. We discuss how her personal experience with Hurricane Maria inspired her heartwarming children's book, The Tree of Hope. Anna shares her emotional journey of witnessing the hurricane's destruction from afar and its impact on her family back on the island.
Discover the powerful intersection of Puerto Rico's culture, history, and U.S. citizenship as Anna opens up about her unique path from grief and loss to writing a children's book that celebrates hope and the human spirit. Hear how her hard work and determination secured her a job on Wall Street and how it fueled her passion to help others learn about finance. We also dive into Anna's creative process, her experience with Faber Academy, and valuable insights into the world of children's book writing and publishing.
Finally, we discuss the ongoing impact of The Tree of Hope and the joy it brings to children and readers alike. Anna reflects on the supportive community that came together to rescue the famous Banyan tree in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, and the powerful message of hope it represents.
BIO:
Anna Orenstein-Cardona was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and is an alum of Faber Academy (Writing a Novel and Writing for Children). She is active in the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
Anna is an NFEC-certified Financial Educator (CFEI) and Wealth Coach with over 22 years of experience working in global financial markets. In 2020, she founded Wear Your Money Crown® - an empowering, woman-owned financial education and coaching firm that is passionately dedicated to bridging the financial inequality gap.
Her debut picture book, The Tree Of Hope, was published by Beaming Books in 2022.
Currently, Anna is working on developing various projects, including more children books. She lives in London with her two very special furbabies and her Southern Gentleman husband, although spends as much time as she can in Puerto Rico. Where she regularly gets involved in rescuing abandoned animals and supporting local charities.
Learn More About Anna's Author Journey and The Tree Of Hope:
http://www.annaorensteincardona.com/
Purchase the Book:
Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Indiebound, and/or your local bookstore!
Follow Anna:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BoricuaAnna
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wearyourmoneycrown/
Are you caring for an aging parent? If so, you'll appreciate this podcast episode featuring Kim and Mike Barnes, founders of Parenting Aging Parents.
Award-winning Austin journalists Kim & Mike Barnes provide actionable solutions about how to care for aging parents. Their mission and passion is calledParenting Aging Parents. While sharing their own experiences and providing guidance from experts, Kim and Mike help others navigate the journey.
5 Important Conversations you need to have about your aging parents.
- Talk with your siblings. Get on the same page.
- Housing. Where do your parents want to live?
- Finances. (Pensions, Debt, Expenses)
- Legal. (Wills, POA, Medical Directives)
- Passwords. (Cell phones, computers, accounts)
About Parenting Aging Parents
Over the past five years, Kim and Mike Barnes found themselves navigating problems they never saw coming from their parents: Alzheimer’s, pacemakers, COVID pneumonia, and the tough decision to move parents into retirement communities. They’ve learned to balance the many facets of parenting aging parents, including medical, financial, and everyday-life decisions, emotional rollercoasters, protecting their parents from scams, and more, all while parenting college-age kids and building their own careers. Many struggle in silence—which is why Parenting Aging Parents provides information, resources, and support.
Through their free Facebook Group, expert interviews, and guide for gathering essential information, Kim and Mike provide access to the knowledge desperately needed for adult children. Parenting Aging Parents is a safe space and a second family for anyone in a position of support and caregiving for the elder relatives in their lives, and especially those who are struggling. Caregiving happens in the margins of life and tugs people (especially women) in so many directions – being a supportive child, a good parent, a productive employee – that it’s too easy to forget yourself in the mix. Parenting Aging Parents strives to provide content, connection, and community for its members so that adult children know how to be better prepared for the challenges ahead as their parents get older.
Youtube Channel
Facebook Group
Have you ever wanted to pack up everything you owned and move to a new country?
That's exactly what Dan and Nisha Ferguson did in the early 90's. They bought a 1976 Volkswagen bus, packed up their business and two young children and headed south. The trip from Toronto, Canada to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico took six weeks. It was an adventure.
Dan is a sculptor and Nisha is a painter. Their business is called DaNisha. Together they collaborate and create ceramic and bronze work. For many years Dan and Nisha traveled the arts festival circuit in the United States. Now they're part of a global network of artists living in San Miguel.
During our conversation, Dan and Nisha talk about their artistic journey and the life choices they made to live life to the fullest. You'll hear that creativity is part of their DNA.
*"100% go for it."
"We've never regretted anything we did, only the things we didn't do."*
I was honored to visit Dan and Nisha while on a visit to San Miguel de Allende with my friend Wendy Conklin, founder of Chair Whimsy. You can watch Wendy's video tour of Dan and Nisha's studio here.
www.danishasculpture.com
www.facebook.com/danishasculpture/
www.instagram.com/danishasculpture/
University faculty share their research and expertise with various audiences. In doing so, faculty build a brand that promotes their own careers and the university they serve.
On this episode, I talk with Regents' Professor Dr. Rodney E. Rohde - chair of the Clinical Laboratory Sciences program at Texas State University. When the pandemic hit, media outlets around the world were looking for answers about COVID 19. Journalists and news outlets turned to Distinguished Professor, Microbiologist, and Virologist Dr. Rodney E. Rohde. During our interview, we talk about how faculty can leverage their expertise for the benefit of their career and the university.
BIO
Rodney E. Rohde, PhD is a Texas State University System Regents’ Professor, University Distinguished Professor, and Chair of the Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) Program in the College of Health Professions at Texas State University. He also serves as Associate Director for the Translational Health Research Center.
Dr. Rohde is a Global Fellow, Fellow of the Association of Clinical Scientists, and Honorary Professor of International studies. He is an ASCP board-certified Specialist in Virology, Microbiology and Molecular Biology. He spent a decade as a public health microbiologist and molecular epidemiologist with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Bureau of Laboratories and Zoonosis Control Division prior to his academic career, including two terms as a CDC Visiting Scientist. His research interests include Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs), antimicrobial resistance, and clinical/public health microbiology especially zoonotic diseases (Rabies, Hantavirus, and others). He also continues to enjoy his role as an Associate Adjunct Professor of Biology with Austin Community College (28 years) where he teaches fundamentals of biology and microbiology courses.
Dr. Rohde has published more than 80 research articles and abstracts, two books, and is a highly sought keynote presenter with over 100 international, national, and state conference presentations. During the #SARSCoV2 / #COVID19 pandemic, Doc R is the #1 quoted Texas State subject matter expert and has conducted over 150 interviews for podcasts, TV, newspapers, and internet sites as well as delivered dozens of webinars and workshops at the international, national, state, and local levels.
Personal Website: https://rodneyerohde.wp.txstate.edu/
Twitter
Linkedin
YouTube
Do you want to live a more CREATIVE life? On this episode, I talk with Chair Whimsy founder Wendy Conklin. She is a designer, an artisan, an educator and an entreprenista.
A visionary thought leader, Wendy is leading a MOVEMENT to live more creatively. Her brand includes custom chairs, online courses, business retreats and more. Wendy's new book is entitled Life Whimsy: How to Think, Play and Work more Creatively.
WENDY'S BIO
Many people dream about making their passion project their career but few are able to turn their dreams into reality. Enter Wendy Conklin, who transformed her hobby into a powerhouse brand, Chair Whimsy, inspiring clients the world over to bring a sense of whimsy and joy into their living spaces.
Wendy was an educational consultant, busy writing books and helping teachers implement the latest in teaching techniques. While she enjoyed her job, she felt there was something missing from her career. She’d always had a creative streak but wasn’t sure how to incorporate it into a lucrative business. In 2012, she took an upholstery course and was hooked. It wasn’t long before friends began asking Wendy to help them “zhuzh” up their homes. Realizing she was onto something, she opened an Etsy store, offering custom refurbishing of antiques and flea-market finds.
Before long, Wendy found herself juggling her full-time job and the Etsy store, to the point something had to give. She realized that her misery as an employee was greater than the fear of becoming an entrepreneur. Springing into action, she took out a loan, asked for a six month leave of absence from work and set out to make her hobby a viable business. Within two days, she knew she could never return to her job and with the determination to make this new venture a success, she dug in.
Traction came quickly but in order to really make her new business soar, she knew she needed some outside advice and began working with a business coach. Contrary to popular belief that offering more options is the key to success, she niched down to a single focus - chairs. Wendy always had an artistic bend and by deciding to play by her own rules of fun, joy and lots of color, her Chair Whimsy brand caught flight, capturing the imaginations of clients around the world. In addition to her custom refurbished chairs, she expanded her line to include a collection of her unique designs made by artisans in Italy as well as fabric selection services.
In 2020, Wendy introduced her first course, DIY Upholstery, to teach others the joy of creating their own works of art. The response prompted her to create five more courses: Styling with the Chair Stylist, Sourcing Swoon-Worthy Fabrics, Fabric Mixology, Just the Bottoms, and The Business of Chairs. Dovetailing with the pandemic, the courses struck a nerve with thousands of women looking to learn a new skill while brightening up their homes. In under 18 months, sales for the courses hit over $500k. Encouraged by Wendy’s enthusiasm and gentle instructions to play, create and not worry about somebody else’s rules, these “Whimsies” are living the Chair Whimsy motto of “create the life you desire and a home that inspires you to live more creatively.”
Wendy lives in a personality-filled home in Round Rock, Texas with her husband, two daughters and little furry friend Maui, where she enjoys greenhouse gardening, mixing tasty cocktails and renovating motorhome as the “Camper Revamper.”
Discover more at: https://chairwhimsy.com/
Check out our Season 1 interview here.
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Show Notes
I couldn't believe it...you could get paid for visiting people.
Reena Philpot is an accomplished business owner and expert salesperson. She loves connecting with people and, after hearing her story, you will too. Reena' s approach to sales is all about helping others.
I just wanted everybody to fall in love with helping other people.
Reena (pronounced Re-nay) went from her telemarketing job - making calls in a closet - to a successful career in sales. Today she teaches owners and sales teams her simple formula for success.
Sales is the vehicle that I use to have and do whatever I want to do.During our conversation, we talk about mindset, goals, planning and focus. We also talk about Reena's latest 'renovation' project.
A lot of times my clients don't have to do more - they just have to be consistent.
BIO Info
Reena Philpot is the co-owner of PDS Copiers and founder of Reena Philpot Sales Coaching. She has spent the last 27 years as a salesperson and absolutely loves sales! Reena's passion is teaching owners and sales teams simple sales techniques allowing them to hit their targets and goals with ease. Issues with anything from prospecting to closing, reach out, and Reena would be happy to help.
Visit ReenaPhilpot.com or email Reena at Reena@ReenaPhilpot.com.
Online Course
Learn Your Strengths & Create Tiny Habits for Success.Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment +
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Geoff Girvitz is a father, a business founder, and the host of the Dad Strength Podcast. He has learned to work with his Unique Strengths to build an intentional, meaningful life. Geoff is the owner of Toronto-based Bang Fitness. He's also a Tiny Habits Certified Coach.
Geoff built Dad Strength as a community for purpose-driven dads who want to have regular conversations about the stuff that matters—as fathers and as men. During our conversation, we talk about the important role Dads play in the family.
You can find the Dad Strength podcast at https://dadstrength.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thedadstrengthpodcast/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffgirvitz/
Online Course
Learn Your Strengths & Create Tiny Habits for Success.Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment +
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Happy New Year -
I want to share a quick preview of some of my upcoming episodes.
- Geoff Girvitz is host of the Dad Strength Podcast. He's creating community with and for Dads. Geoff is an entrepreneur, Tiny Habits Coach and owner of Bang Personal Training in Toronto.
- Reena Philpot - Sales Mentor and Consultant. Check out the Selling with Charm Podcast.
- Boston-based Corrie Legge is a Mom, voice over artist and filmmaker. We talk about creativity, motherhood and the freelance lifestyle.
- Award-winning Austin journalists Kim and Mike Barnes are building a community focused on Parenting Aging Parents.
My new friend, Reena Philpot, sets goals for the year with her family. She also has a 'word' of the year. My word for 2023 is GRATEFUL. Listen to this short preview and you'll hear why.
If you've a story to tell, or know someone who does - please send me an email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com
I wish you the best in 2023. Thanks so much for listening. - Judy
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Are you on a JOURNEY?
What's your relationship between your body, your mind and food? Are you working through challenges related to food, health and body image? Society and social media send mixed message that can impact our mindset and behavior. JULIE BOUCHE has traveled this journey. and now helps others.
JULIE is an Intuitive Eating Coach and Tiny Habits Certified Coach. She helps people interested in transforming their mind, body and relationship with food. Julie uses an intuitive, integrated approach to help others understand what to do when things get hard.
Our bodies know what we need......we're born that way. We know what we need as babies... we cry when we're hungry, we stop when we're full. We intuitively know what our body is asking us for. At some point in the process, we lose that. Whether it's conditioning, or whether its family habits, or whatever it is...we lose that ability to kind of sense what our body wants and needs, and to respect it.
Intuitive eating is about coming back to us, coming back to ourselves.
Julie's Bio:
Julie Bouche is an author (The Journey Blueprint), teacher (writing and literature), and all-around learning nerd. Her own journeys have led her to becoming yoga, meditation, Intuitive Eating, embodiment (and a few more!) certified so she can share what has changed her life for the better. Drawing from her time in the classroom, raising six kids, working in residential treatment, owning a small yoga studio, living in foreign countries, and life taking her in a completely different direction than she thought, Julie brings to any conversation an ability to get to the core of the issue and find the “and” behind the “either/or.” As a student of journeys and the experiences that we have that are both unique and universal, her goal is to help support people in finding an empowered relationship with the process and framework of journeys and then begin creating the life they've longed for but couldn't seem to find.
She can be contacted at julie@thejourneyblueprint.com. Buy the book on Amazon or visit thejourneyblueprint.com.
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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JUNI FELIX was born into a whirlwind of trauma, abuse and poverty. Her mother was adopted from Tokyo when she was 4 years old. Juni says her mother never healed from her adoption abandonment wound. She watched her Mom struggle with loss her entire life. Juni spent her entire childhood on suicide watch over her mother. Today, Juni Felix is an advocate and champion for mental health, helping others begin their own healing journey.
JUNI calls trauma 'bad code in the brain." During our interview, Juni talks about her mother's death, her own sugar addition and lifelong healing journey. Her story was featured in BJ Fogg's bestselling book, Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything. Juni is the bestselling author of You are Worth the Work – Moving Forward from Trauma to Faith, a member of Dr. BJ Fogg’s (Stanford University) Behavior Design Teaching Team, a C.S. Lewis Institute Fellow, speaker, radio and podcast host. In her spare time, she’s a distance runner, video gamer and sci-fi movie buff.
Juni's motto is “Kindness is a superpower” She offers the following guidance:
- Be kind to yourself
- Speak the truth
- Learn who you are
- Celebrate your healing journey
As a woman of faith, Juni explains that God is a 'systems guy."
Juni has offered our listeners “The Gift of Sorrow” eBook as a free gift. The Password for the gift is FAITHFUL1
Reach out to Juni Felix for more information or to volunteer to be a mentor.
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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Yolanda J Nagy is the founder of Eatin' and Sippin' Locally LLC. She's a Farmers Market Consultant and Social Media Manager. A native Austinite, Yolanda showcases the best Texas markets, vendors and helps them build their business. She also writes for Edible Austin, a magazine dedicated to the Austin local scene.
Yolanda helps Farmers Markets and vendors connect with their customers through social media. Her podcast, Eatin' and Sippin' Locally, features local farmers' markets and shopping tips.
I had a great time talking with Yolanda. We discussed her journey and how she helps entrepreneurs succeed. Her message is Dream Big, Sell More, Eat Local.During our interview, you'll hear the ice cream man drive by.... he's a regular in the neighborhood every Wednesday .
You can find out more information about Yolanda below:
https://linktr.ee/eatinandsippinlocally
www.eatinandsippinglocally.com
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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Mother's Day Spotlight
On this episode, I'm super excited to share this interview with my MOM - Joan (pronounced Jo Ann). She talks about what it was like to be a woman in the 1950's. During our conversation, Mom and I discuss the importance of family, travel, love and the power of choice.
Resilient
My folks were from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and met in high school. They started out with little money, worked hard and had to start over again in their 60's. I've always admired their resilience.
Character
I asked Mom to share some wisdom for her 5 grandchildren.
"If my grandchildren realized how important it is to be honest and decent, then that will get you through everything. ...."
"*You are known by the friends you keep."
"Don't hide your light under a bushel."*
Relationships
"Every couple remembers the time that they fell in love. It's always just a moment in time.'"For my Mom and Dad, their moment was at the top of a carnival Ferris wheel. You'll hear her relive the story.
"I remember the touch, the colors, the lights.."
"It just happens.."
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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Mom, Fitness Expert, Tiny Habits Coach
Brittany Power is a powerful woman. She is a mom of six ---3 sons from a previous marriage, 2 stepdaughters & a toddler.
Throughout her life, Brittany has used her struggles as life lessons. A Leukemia cancer survivor, she experienced the life changing loss of her younger brother and watched her Dad disintegrate from Alzheimer’s.
Brittany knows life is tough but women are tougher.
Her success started with a rock bottom moment that was transformed because of habits & resilience. You'll hear more in our conversation. You might want to take some notes.
According to Brittany, PINK SPRINKLED DONUTS are a lot like LIFE.
TINY HABITS FOR MOMS
Brittany and her Mom, Linda Fogg-Phillips, created the course Tiny Habits for Moms. As a mother of 8 children, Linda knows how to design systems that work. Brittany and Linda will teach you effective strategies you can use immediately.
In their course you'll learn:
- How to design habits that stick in 5-7 days
- What has been successful for other moms in the top 7 areas you juggle as a mom
- Fun ways to teach your kids behavior change
You can learn more about Brittany here.
Buy BJ Fogg's book - Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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Do you struggle with sugar? Are you on a journey to live a healthier life? This is the interview for you.
On this episode I talk with Certified Tiny Habits Coaches Andrea Spyros and Juni Felix.
Juni Felix is a bestselling author of You are Worth the Work – Moving Forward from Trauma to Faith. She's a member of Dr. BJ Fogg’s Stanford University Behavior Design Teaching Team, a C.S. Lewis Institute Fellow, and a radio and podcast host.
Learn more about Juni at junifelix.com.
Behavior Design expert Andrea Spyros shows leaders and their teams a simple, science-based system to solve challenges with ease. Her keynotes and workshops help organizations break through the Myth of Motivation to see real results.
Contact Andrea at Andrea.Spyros@TinyHabitsCoach.com and learn more on her website: AndreaSpyros.com
Check out Juni & Andrea's new online course - Tiny Habits for Sugar Free Living
They'll help you create a Sugar Free Master Plan using an internationally proven method for behavior change called 'Tiny Habits.'
I also recommend you buy BJ Fogg's book: Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Maci Wescott is a digital marketer and messaging strategist who brings words and solutions together like magic. She works with clients on their copy, brand and launch planning. I've experienced Maci's expertise first hand. Maci dives deep to get to know her client and their business.
But that's not where she started. Listen in and you'll hear how Maci took an unpaid internship that changed her career.
Since taking that leap, Maci has worked on more than 200 launches, some resulting in multiple six-figure success for her clients. Her secret sauce is making sure brand, values, and offers all align.
What makes Maci super savvy is her understanding of her own strengths and how to leverage them for her clients and their businesses. She learned about her natural talents by taking the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment.
Maci helps entrepreneurs develop their brand ethos, create evocative messaging and refine their offers for maximum impact. You can connect with Maci at:
https://www.maciwescott.com/
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Listen in as three good friends meet over margaritas and talk about family and the meaning of friendship. I've wanted to do an interview with my two friends - Wendy Conklin and Grace Capwell - for some time. Wendy is the founder of Chair Whimsy. Grace Capwell is a strategic communications leader.
Over the years we've shared our experiences as women......moms, wives, daughters, aunts and sisters. We're all different ages and in various stages of our lives. We met when our children were young and have been friends for years.
Wendy, Grace and I sat around the dining room table and shared dinner, margaritas and stories about friendship. And yes, we laughed a lot.
Key Take Aways
- Good friends happen when you least expect it. Be open to the possibility
- You don't need a lot of friends, one or two is all you need
- Make friends with interesting people who are doers, go-getters
- Be honest with your friends, tell them the pains not just the 'good' stuff
- Look for people who are real, down-to-earth and will meet you in the trenches
- Keep struggling until you find deep, lifelong friendships
I'd love to hear your feedback about this episode. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com. www.judyoskam.com
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Travel - Just do it
Talking with Lea Lane is like having coffee or a glass of wine with a dear friend. Interesting, educational and just plain fun.
Over the years, Lea's been to more than 100 countries. During the pandemic she started her award-winning podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane.
Lea Lane has written more than a thousand travel pieces and columns, and contributed to Fodor’s guidebooks and Unofficial Guides. She’s authored eight books, including award-winners Solo Traveler, Travel Tales I Couldn’t Put in the Guidebooks, and Places I Remember: Tales, Truths, Delights from 100 Countries.
I know that Lea has so many stories to share - which means I need to do a follow-up interview or meet her somewhere on the road. I've got so many questions about how she navigated life as a wife, mother, communications professional, writer and now starting a podcast and Youtube channel......as she turns 80 years old! I love this.
Habits that work for Lea:
- Work in the earlier part of the day
- Balance your work and life (her computer is always nearby!)
- Stay curious
Quotes:
People around the world are the same and can be a little different too.... we all love and care but we have little cultural differences.
Some of us have more luck than others, we were born in the right time and the right place. So many times I have seen people who have been through many wars and many famines and this sort of thing and they're just like I am, they're just not lucky and it makes you a better person if you realize this.
Prioritize what you want to do. If you're comfortable, do it.
Realize that time is short - so find a way to get out and go. Find someone to travel with or travel on your own.
You can buy Lea's book - Place I Remember: Tales, Truths and Delights from 100 Countries, on Amazon.
Places I Remember with Lea Lane - Podcast
Lea's Blog - Places I Remember
Lea Lane's column in Forbes
Bio Info
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
I'm honored to share this interview with my Texas State University colleague Dr. Cassandra LeClair. She's an author, professor, communication consultant, and motivational speaker.
Dr. LeClair's story is powerful. For many years as a child, Cassandra was the victim of sexual abuse. For decades, she never told a soul. She shares the heartbreaking story of her abuse in her book Being Whole: Healing from Trauma and Reclaiming My Voice.
Cassandra's mission is to educate individuals about how to have effective and healthy communication to enhance their relationships. She works to help others gain understanding of their communication practices to improve their connections with friends and family members, in the workplace, and beyond.
In April 2018, Dr. Cassandra LeClair survived a car crash that not only broad-sided her daily existence, it sent her careening back to childhood trauma. The car crash was the just the catalyst - the beginning of her journey to reclaim her voice. Dr. LeClair spent her days teaching others to communicate effectively and share their stories all while keeping a devastating secret that prevented her from feeling truly whole and living an authentic existence.
Check out Being Whole with Dr. Cassandra LeClair on your favorite podcast player.
You can buy Cassandra's book, Being Whole: Healing from Trauma and Reclaiming My Voice, here.
https://cassandraleclair.com/
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Pivot (verb) to make a significant change in position, strategy, or process
On this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Personal and Professional Development Coach Pam Danyluk from her office in Canada.
Pam Danyluk is an engineer-turned-coach, with a life story full of pivots.
Her personal experience with CliftonStrengths shifted the way she approaches not only her career, but the rest of her life as well.
In addition to coaching individuals and teams, Pam has helped hundreds recognize and appreciate their innate talent through facilitating CliftonStrengths workshops, webinars, university lectures and group coaching sessions.
Through her coaching practice - Awareness in Bloom - she uses her training and life experiences to help people transform their lives both personally and professionally.
SPECIAL OFFER: Connect with Pam for a FREE coaching session.
https://www.awarenessinbloom.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-danyluk/
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Do you want to improve your public speaking skills? In this episode, you'll learn 5 simple tips to help you become a more effective communicator.
Andrea Spyros, Behavior Design expert and Tiny Habits Certified Coach, shows leaders and their teams a simple, science-based system to solve challenges with ease. Her keynotes and workshops help organizations break through the Myth of Motivation to see real results in all areas of operation.
Andy talked about her entrepreneurial journey and how she builds community in our season 2 interview (episode 34). Because she's a professional speaker, I asked Andy to share some strategy about public speaking. Practice Andy's tips and you'll most certainly improve your public speaking skills and increase your confidence. #100%
When she's not practicing her presentations, you can find Andrea Spyros painting, playing bass guitar, or amusing her friends with geeky math jokes.
Contact Andrea at Andrea.Spyros@TinyHabitsCoach.com and learn more on her website: AndreaSpyros.com
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Adoption, Culture and Family
On this episode I was honored to interview Natalie Pappas. She was adopted from the Hunan Province of China when she was two years old. I was there on that September day. My husband and I adopted our oldest daughter from the same orphanage. A life changing event.
Natalie Pappas created the online project Tiger Lily Stories to provide a space and a platform for adoptee voices and stories. During our conversation, we talk about race, adoption and Asian American identity.
Pappas graduated from The New School in 2019 with a degree in Literary Studies. Natalie is passionate about fashion, photography, and writing and pursues these interests in her creative and professional work.
Tiger Lily Stories
https://www.tigerlilystories.com/
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Andrea Spyros, Behavior Design expert and Tiny Habits Certified Coach, shows leaders and their teams a simple, science-based system to solve challenges with ease. Her keynotes and workshops help organizations break through the Myth of Motivation to see real results in all areas of operation.
Spyros admits that she never really 'fit the mold.' She says her journey was messy. You'll love her honesty and humor. I think that's what makes her an effective, authentic communicator.
For Andy, community is everything. As a successful business owner and entrepreneur, she created a vibrant community of artists. Now, she's sharing her expertise with the Tiny Habits coaching community - led by Stanford University researcher Dr. BJ Fogg.
During our interview she talks about how she instinctively blends strategic thinking and creativity. She's learned to listen to her intuition and offers some guidance for our audience.
When she's not practicing her presentations, you can find Andrea Spyros painting, playing bass guitar, or amusing her friends with geeky math jokes.
Contact Andrea at Andrea.Spyros@TinyHabitsCoach.com and learn more on her website: AndreaSpyros.com
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
On this episode you'll hear my interview with entrepreneur, author and fitness enthusiast Jack Lowe. I reached out to Jack after reading an article on the Ageist media site. I'm fascinated by his successful business career and what Jack calls his "end of career story. " At almost 80 years old, he's on a mission to change the idea of aging.
Early this year, Jack Lowe released his new book Get Fit for Life: My Journey with Fitness, Health and Aging. You can find the book on Amazon.
With a lifelong passion for health, Jack was the driving force for the Fit for Life Foundation. The organization was founded in 2020 to support lifelong fitness and health.
Fit for Life Foundation Bio:
Jack Lowe, Champion of the Fit for Life philosophy *A successful entrepreneur and all-round athlete, Jack has been involved in amateur and professional sports for decades. He has climbed the highest peaks in Europe, Africa, and South America, and traveled 22 countries by bike. He has sponsored cycling teams and helped lead basketball camps for youth in Switzerland. He has also participated for many years in a Geneva-based study on how aging athletes perform physically over time.
Jack’s business and charitable activities span several continents, from Asia to Europe and North America. He is President of Lomastar SA, a private equity fund advisory firm in Nyon, Switzerland, and the former Chairman of the VNH Foundation, a Zurich-based charity focusing on disabled children in Vietnam. From 2010 to 2014, he served as Chairman of Azure Partners, a Swiss asset advisory firm specializing in microfinance funds. From 2004 to 2008, he was CEO of Blue Orchard Finance SA, the largest private microfinance lender in the world with assets in excess of 1 billion. As an entrepreneur, he has created a half-dozen businesses in his 50-year career.
Jack lives in Switzerland, and he is fluent in English, French, Japanese and Spanish. He is 79 years old, and is married with three adult children and seven grandchildren.*
For more information:
Fit for Life Foundation
Ageist Magazine
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
On this episode, I talk with Anna Orenstein-Cardona. She's a London-based financial coach and an FEC certified financial educator. Anna is on a mission to close the gap in financial literacy. You'll hear about her fascinating journey and why she started her business, Wear Your Money Crown. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Key Takeaways
- For well being, we all need mental, spiritual, physical and financial health.
- Understand your financial behaviors.
- Financial freedom means having the choice to say 'no'. 'No' to bad relationships, bad jobs, bad circumstances.
- Financial savviness is a life skill.
- Explore your transgenerational money beliefs.
Bio
ANNA ORENSTEIN-CARDONA was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She grew up in a multicultural home, where although money was tight, love was plentiful. From a young age she was constantly coming up with inventive ways to raise and save money.
Anna received her Bachelor of Science degree in Brain & Cognitive Sciences from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and for the past twenty-one years, she has worked on the trading floors of various large financial institutions, both on Wall Street and in the City of London. A fun fact is that in 2006, she was asked to advise Colin Firth in a trading scene for Born Equal, a television film directed by Dominic Savage for the BBC.
Aside from her day job, Anna is an NFEC certified financial educator (CFEI) and coach who is passionate about closing the gap in Financial Literacy. She recently founded Wear Your Money Crown to empower others with the knowledge and tools to make smarter financial decisions, align their financial behaviors with personal goals, and take actionable steps to rule their finances.
Anna is a Board member for the MIT Club of Great Britain and is actively involved in various charities, supporting both children and animal welfare. She currently lives in London with her two very special rescue cats and her Southern Gentleman husband.
You can check out Anna's new book on Amazon. The Tree of Hope: The Miraculous Rescue of Puerto Rico's Beloved Banyan.
Website: https://wearyourmoneycrown.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/wearyourmoneycrown/
Join Anna’s email list & receive a Free PDF Guide (Top Tips for Financial Health) - https://successful-composer-5444.ck.page/ac0d024952
Free Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/wearyourmoneycrown
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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1000 Day Streak - September 24, 2021
Athlete Sandra Mikulic is an inspiration. She's been running or walking 5 kms EVERY DAY since January 1, 2019. Sandra keeps MOVING and encourages us to do the same.
"I don't fear showing up. I don't fear being seen."
Sandra Mikulic is a mother of 4, a Plus-size Athlete, full-time banker and advocate for all size athletes. She wants all size athletes to be "fairly represented in media to change the stereotype that only " thinner" people can run or be athletic."
She writes, "My mental health has drastically improved which is why I promote everyday movement for the improvement of mental health."
"I now have a mechanism to deal with the lows of life, whereas before I didn't."
I found my interview with Sandra to be inspiring and motivating. I've started my own fitness streak (biking as often as possible).
Sandra on Change:
"365 days is going to happen. Whether or not you like it. So 365 days from today is going to happen. But are you going to be the same person you were 365 days from now? If you change one thing in your life on a daily basis, you will be different."
During our interview Sandra mentions the book, The Body Keeps Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel A. van der Kolk.
Follow Sandra on Instagram
You can checkout Sandra here.
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show
Many people search for their purpose. For Mindy Henderson, purpose found her. She gave her first speech at the age of 4. Mindy was the Texas representative for the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Telethon.
I was honored to talk with speaker, author and coach Mindy Henderson about change, determination and life as an entrepreneur. She was recently recognized by Austin Woman Magazine as a Woman to Watch.
About Mindy:
Mindy Henderson is a Motivational Speaker, Writer, Coach, Host of “The Truth About Things That Suck” podcast and guest contributor of “Morning Motivational Tips” on CBS Austin’s “We Are Austin” lifestyle morning show.
Living life from a wheelchair, the challenges Mindy has overcome have cultivated the very skills she needed to achieve almost every goal she's ever set for herself. This makes her uniquely qualified to motivate others to see their potential.
Despite living life from a wheelchair, on her list of credits are:
• Bachelors and Masters degrees
• A 15-year career in software, leading teams of highly skilled professionals
• Multiple singing appearances on national television
• A CD recorded with George Strait’s guitar and bass players accompanying her
• A long list of public speaking credits, addressing thousands of volunteers of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), MDA staff and corporate executives
• A one-on-one battle fought and won with the government of China and a successful trip to one of the least wheelchair accessible countries on the planet to adopt her daughter
• A passion for making the impossible, possible.
Mindy helps people see how to live more productively and positively, to roll with the punches and to work to accomplish all they are capable of. Her mission is to move and inspire people to realize when they take responsibility, stop making excuses and OWN their adversity, they become better, stronger people and their potential is revealed.
Host of “The Truth About Things That Suck” Podcast
Website - www.mindyhendersonspeaks.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mindyhendersonspeaks/
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Augusto Valverde is the creative force behind Global Child TV, the new generation world travel show that blends luxury, adventure and life lessons. He is also the founder of the BIG Foundation, a non-profit organization that brings together Christians, Jews and Muslims to help people in need, regardless of their faith or beliefs.
Augusto Valverde grew in Mexico City and moved to Canada at the age of 19. He returned to Miami where he launched SWAY Magazine and worked as it's Chief Editor. Augusto became a top event promoter and was selected as the #1 event promoter in the United States by Telemundo, He hosted a prime-time national daily show called La tijera in Telefutura. After moving to the West Coast in 2009, he earned a UCLA certificate for Feature Film writing and honed his acting skills. Augusto uses his life experience, travel adventures and degree in theology to connect and communicate with his audience. You'll hear more about his journey during our Zoom interview.
You can check out Global Child TV and buy Augusto's new book below.
Global Child on Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B08HVZV3FL/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r
You can buy Augusto's book on Amazon - Global Child: Wisdom from Travel Adventures to Unlock Your Potential
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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I've been moved by recent violence and racism against our Asian American communities. Years ago my husband and I adopted two daughters from China. Our family is a blend of culture and color.
I found a thoughtful Facebook post by Asian adoptee Anna Rochelle Rangel. I contacted Anna and interviewed her on Zoom. Anna describes herself as Phenomenally Asian & Proud Adoptee.
Here's part of her Facebook post:
The Asian American Experience to me is:
•Staying small, invisible, out of trouble, & quiet
•Being the Model Minority
• Constantly being told I look like “insert any female Asian actor”
•Down playing my experiences because someone else always has it worse
Anna encourages all of us to speak out against hate and racism. She offers the following suggestions for connecting with Asian American communities:
- Reach out to Asian Americans. Ask how they are doing. Start a conversation. Ask about their story.
- Visit and support Asian-owned businesses.
- Share anti-racist posts in social media.
- Message your friends and family in the Asian community.
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Lisa Byrne is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Pilates Instructor and Movement Coach. I noticed her creative posts on Instagram. Lisa inspires me to find simple ways to keep moving. She is studio owner and the creative force behind MoveMoreToday, Pilates for Sport, GardenCore and The Sidekick Stick®. Based in Pennsylvania, she works with adults in her studio and online via zoom.
We talked about exercise and change. Movement and mindset.
Key Takeaways
- Look for any opportunity to move
- When you feel better you do better
- 3 barriers to fitness: no time, unsure what to do, hate exercise
- Step into the start, mix up movements
- Lace up and go for a walk
Lisa Byrne contributes regularly to:
- The Health Sciences Academy as Research Analyst
- Boomer-Living as their female Fitness Director
- Retire-Net.com as their Exercise and Fitness Expert
- National Association of Baby Boomer Women as their Fitness Expert
You can find out more about Lisa Byrne below.
Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
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Show Notes
March is Women’s History Month. And Monday, March 8, 2021 is International Women's Day. The 2021 International Women's Day theme is is Choose to Challenge. To recognize women who choose to challenge, I’m shining the spotlight on some of our outstanding guests from season 1.
A solo entrepreneur for more than 25 years, Elisa Victoria Jimenez decided at the age of 15 that her life would be her greatest work of art. She's interested in the relationship between art, life and humanity.
If you follow fashion - you might recognize Jimenez from her work with celebrity clients like Cher, Sarah Jessica Parker, Serena Williams and more. Over the years, her designs have graced the pages of Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Elle. Elisa is also a Project Runway alum. Her creative roots run deep - she’s the daughter of famed designer and fine artist Vicky Balcou and the late internationally known sculptor Luis Jimenez. (You can listen to my interview with Vicky Balcou from season 1.)
Key Takeaways
- Where you spend your money matters
- Art is life, life is art movement
- Learn about business so you can help change it.
“Keep change as your best friend, Elisa, and the unknown as your constant lover. If you know this about life, you will be better for it.” – Words of wisdom from mother Vicky Balcou to daughter Elisa Jimenez.
Resources
Elisajimenez.com
@elisajimeneznyc
https://shor.by/ElisaJimenez
International Women's Day
You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram @judyoskam and Twitter @judyoskam
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Marla Lackey's life changed when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her mother had been her best friend, her rock. Now the roles were reversed. Marla, a registered nurse for years, took on the role of caregiver.
Throughout her journey, Marla started to experience what she describes as ‘full-circle” or ‘spiritual aha’ moments. She wrote her memoir to share her story and help others.
Key Takeaways:
● Be open to spiritual ‘aha’ moments
● There are many blessings in the midst of pain during the caregiving process
● The importance of gratitude and reflection
About the BookFaith and a Tube of Lipstick: A Daughter’s Memoir of Hope Through Cancer, Caregiving, and Grief. You can find the book on Amazon.
An inspirational memoir about love, caregiving, and grief, Faith and a Tube of Lipstick shows just how powerful the bond between a mother and daughter can be. Whether you’ve experienced cancer in your life, served as a caregiver, grieved a parent, or need to find your faith, this story is sure to capture your heart.
Bio-
Marla Lackey is a nurse, author, blogger, speaker and former caregiver to her beloved parents. Marla uses her soulful energy and personal stories to offer hope and inspiration to caregivers and grievers to find the blessings in the midst of their own painful journeys.
Marla speaks to healthcare professionals on the topic of mindfulness in healthcare. Using stories from her own journey, she encourages and inspires her colleagues to connect with their patients while working in a stressful environment.
Marla lives in Texas with her husband and four adult children.
Website- marlalackey.net
Facebook: @FaithandLipstick
Instagram: @marlalackey
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Anna Mazurek's number one priority in life is to travel. So far, she has traveled to more than 50 countries around the world. And she's done it on a budget.
Anna Mazurek is a freelance travel photographer, writer and university lecturer based in Austin, Texas. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, AFAR and Rolling Stone. She is a budget travel expert and author of the book, Good With Money: A Guide to Prioritizing Spending, Maximizing Savings, and Traveling More - available on Amazon. The book is also available from Anna's website.
You can find out more information about Anna from her website - Travel Like Anna. You can also check out her travel buddy, Alfred The Globe Trotting Gnome.
During our conversation we talk about budgeting for travel, safety, the art of slow travel, and virtual career options post-covid.
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Show Notes
Have you ever wanted to buy a van, hit the road and travel the United States? Well, that's just what YoungWa decided to do. She moved to Austin from Seattle two years ago. YoungWa grew tired of corporate life and decided to make a life change. Using her savings, she bought a Storyteller Overland van and started making plans.
In late October 2020, YoungWa and her dog, Kimchi, started out on their new RV adventure. Kimchi is the cutest Australian Cattle Dog you've ever seen. You can find him on Instagram and YouTube. Check out YW & K-Dawg
I met YoungWa at an Austin Podcasters meetup in January 2020. She is the creator and host of A & E with YoungWa, an unniche podcast. Her Anything & Everything podcast 'explores inspirational stories, love and relationships, vulnerabilities, health, science, politics, conspiracy theories, and anything else that impacts society.'You can find YoungWa's podcast on YouTube and all the podcast streaming platforms.
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Show Notes
Stories of Change and Creativity - Shorts Takes features savvy strategies and life lessons from experts.
Best-selling author and Ramsey Personality Anthony ONeal connects with young people and college students with a positive message about how they can reach their goals.
In this short take, Anthony talks about the importance of relationships and planning.
You can buy Anthony's latest book on Amazon.
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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Stories of Change and Creativity - Shorts Takes features savvy strategies and life lessons from experts.
Chair Stylist Wendy Conklin created her company, Chair Whimsy, in 2012. She designs custom, one of a kind chairs and shares her expertise consulting and teaching online classes.
In this short take, Wendy talks about what she hopes her daughters learn from her journey. We discuss courage, change and mindset. She shares some practices that help her succeed as an entrepreneur.
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
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Includes CliftonStrengths Managers Assessment + Tiny Habits Training
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Todd Salzman is on a mission to help people deal with and understand depression and anxiety. He knows about it first hand. At the top of his game, Todd struggled with what he calls, the dragon.
You can find Salzman's book, Slaying Dragons: A Layman's Guide to Understanding Depression and Anxiety and Killing It!, on Amazon. Book DescriptionOne day while driving, Todd Salzman drifted toward a bridge abutment—fully ensnared in the dragon’s grip. An outside observer would have been shocked, because he was at the top of his personal and professional career. Deep down, however, he could barely take hold of his own life, and the realization that he almost took it drove him to seek help. In this guide to slaying the dragon, he gives the reader a glimpse into the often unknown and complex world of depression and anxiety. He shares his journey of seeking medical attention and therapy, within an institution where the warrior spirit reigns supreme, as well as his views on wellness. He explores how four aspects of wellness—physical, social, mental, and spiritual—can come together to strengthen the whole and create what he calls “The Adamas Effect”.
Bio - Todd SalzmanJohn T. (Todd) Salzman is a husband, father, author, mentor, and public/motivational speaker.
He served 30 years in the USAF from 1982 to 2012 and attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest Air Force enlisted grade. Todd logged over 2700 hours of instructor and evaluator time in KC-135R and deployed globally in support of numerous operations and contingencies.
As a Command Chief Master Sergeant, he was the key advisor to senior officers on the proper utilization, development, and training of assigned enlisted personnel. While serving in the Pacific, Todd was instrumental in developing groundbreaking enlisted leadership development programs alongside sixteen US partner nations and allies. His final assignment was at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he continued to advise the senior staff on enlisted issues and the leadership development of America's newest Air Force Second Lieutenants.
Todd earned a bachelor's in Business Administration from the University of Southern Colorado and a master's in Human Resource Development and Training from Webster University.
Todd is married to Kelly and has two children, Jadyn and Jared.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
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LaVonna Roth is a savvy thought leader who blends education, science and psychology. She works with educators and business professionals, teaching them how to connect, engage and motivate.
Roth is the creator and owner of Ignite your S.H.I.N.E. The acronym stands for:
Self
Heart
Ignite
Navigate
Exceptional
LaVonna Roth is on a mission to provide professional development – virtual or on-site - for educators and corporate clients. She’s written books on brain research and engaging instruction. As an elementary and secondary educator, keynote speaker, author, consultant and mom, she teaches educators how to effectively serve students through the lens of brain research, social-emotional needs and the whole child. She also works with business clients on staff development and corporate culture initiatives.
During our conversation, LaVonna and I talked about the importance of focusing on our strengths. In my role as a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, I can relate to this strength-based approach.
You will love learning about LaVonna’s journey. She talks about how moments in life don’t define us but instead, refine us. I hope you enjoy the interview.
You can check out some of her presentations.
Her books are available from Teacher Created Materials.
For more information, contact:
Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.®
Phone: (813) 360-0630
Email: LaVonna@igniteyourSHINE.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Please join me for a two-part interview with Texas Fine Art Photographer Melissa Fontenette-Mitchell. In our first episode, we talk about Melissa's career path and some of her landmark projects.
In part two of our interview, Melissa comments on the power of images and how video and photographs help illustrate stories about racial injustice.
Hope you enjoy our conversation.
ARTIST STATEMENT from MELISSA FONTENETTE-MITCHELL
My Photography Fine Art takes a critical view of social, women, political and cultural issues. Often referencing African American and Global History, my work explores the varying relationships between popular culture and fine art.
Having engaged subjects as diverse as the Civil Rights Movement, Women's Rights and Community Issues. My work reproduces familiar visual and conceptual art. While I use a variety of materials and processes in each fine artwork my methodology is consistent.
My work has been exhibited at numerous venues in Texas, Florida and New York. The Bydee Art Gallery, The Contemporary Art Museum, Mattie Kelly Art Gallery, Heath Gallery, Open Doors Gallery, People’s Art Gallery, Round Rock Art Space and Conception Art Gallery.
The subject matter of each body of work celebrate a rich diversity to encourage young minds to dream and follow their purpose. During research and production new areas of interest arise and lead to the next body of work. Art remains as a strong contender of how we share our thoughts and ideas.
Melissa’s most recent accomplishment as a featured artist in a short documentary film produced and directed by Kyndal Workman, a Pflugerville Girl Scout Gold Star recipient, “Women + the Arts = Social Impact” 2020 Black History Month Artist at Round Rock Public Library exhibition “The Struggle in Black and White”, selected as one the 200 Artist out of 1250 submissions to exhibit her artwork at Austin City Hall. 2017 Melissa was awarded Top 100 Achievements in Black Austin Fine Art Artist. In 2015 Melissa was awarded 1st place in Digital
Photography and People’s Choice Award at Texas State University. In 2014 Villager’s Newspaper Photographer of the week.
Please follow Melissa on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/north_starphotography/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lissiaz/
https://www.facebook.com/North-Star-Photography-220674192456/
https://twitter.com/lissia007
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Texas Fine Arts Photographer Melissa Fontenette-Mitchell knows the power of images. In part two of our interview, Melissa discusses how video and photographs help tell important stories about racial injustice.
In our first episode (#016), we talked about Melissa's career path and some of her landmark projects.
Hope you enjoy our conversation.
ARTIST STATEMENT by MELISSA FONTENETTE-MITCHELL
My Photography Fine Art takes a critical view of social, women, political and cultural issues. Often referencing African American and Global History, my work explores the varying relationships between popular culture and fine art.
Having engaged subjects as diverse as the Civil Rights Movement, Women's Rights and Community Issues. My work reproduces familiar visual and conceptual art. While I use a variety of materials and processes in each fine artwork my methodology is consistent.
My work has been exhibited at numerous venues in Texas, Florida and New York. The Bydee Art Gallery, The Contemporary Art Museum, Mattie Kelly Art Gallery, Heath Gallery, Open Doors Gallery, People’s Art Gallery, Round Rock Art Space and Conception Art Gallery.
The subject matter of each body of work celebrate a rich diversity to encourage young minds to dream and follow their purpose. During research and production new areas of interest arise and lead to the next body of work. Art remains as a strong contender of how we share our thoughts and ideas.
Melissa’s most recent accomplishment as a featured artist in a short documentary film produced and directed by Kyndal Workman, a Pflugerville Girl Scout Gold Star recipient, “Women + the Arts = Social Impact” 2020 Black History Month Artist at Round Rock Public Library exhibition “The Struggle in Black and White”, selected as one the 200 Artist out of 1250 submissions to exhibit her artwork at Austin City Hall. 2017 Melissa was awarded Top 100 Achievements in Black Austin Fine Art Artist. In 2015 Melissa was awarded 1st place in Digital
Photography and People’s Choice Award at Texas State University. In 2014 Villager’s Newspaper Photographer of the week.
Please follow Melissa on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/north_starphotography/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lissiaz/
https://www.facebook.com/North-Star-Photography-220674192456/
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Show Notes
The global pandemic has changed the way we live, work and learn. And colleges and universities will transition to meet these new demands. On this episode, I talk with Anthony ONeal. Ramsey personalities Anthony ONeal and Rachel Cruz wrote the award-winning book, The Graduate Survival Guide: Five Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make in College.
"This is the generation that can change our future..." - Anthony ONeal
Key Takeaways
- Avoid debt
- Be strategic about your own social media
- Use social media to build your brand
- Surround yourself with people who help you make good decisions
- Educators can help plant a seed of support for students
- Put your vision on paper, make a plan
"The caliber of your future will be determined by the choices you make right now."
- Anthony ONeal
You can find out more about Anthony here. Check out his student loan payoff calculator.
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
In this episode, I interview Vicky Cardwell Balcou - about art, life and the creative process. We also talked about how she embraces change and keeps moving forward.
Fort Worth native Vicky Cardwell Balcou was destined to be an artist. Born into a family of artists, designers and teachers, her mother and father supported her creativity. Since graduating from The University of Texas, Vicky has had a long, successful career in commercial art, product design, illustration and advertising. Vicky's vast portfolio includes book design at top university presses and freelance projects from portraits to murals. For more than 25 years, Vicky was a lead product designer for Fitz and Floyd.
Balcou's daughter, Elisa Jimenez, followed her family's creative lead and is building a prosperous career in interdisciplinary art. You can hear Elisa's interview in episode 5, released earlier this season.
In 2017, Balcou and long time college friend and fellow artist, Tina Woodruff, collaborated on a joint exhibit. Their work was part of an art show entitled, Old Friends, New Directions. The Austin American Statesman wrote about the show and their friendship.
I loved Ms. Balcou's strategy about reinvention every 5 years. Now with macular degeneration, she is updating her artistic style once again. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
The COVID-19 virus has impacted the way we work, learn and live our lives. On this episode, I talk with Amy Webb. We recorded this interview on May 15, 2020. Amy Webb is a quantitative futurist and a bestselling, award-winning author. She is the Founder of the Future Today Institute, a leading foresight and strategy firm that helps leaders and their organizations prepare for complex futures. She's also a professor of strategic foresight at the NYU Stern School of Business. During our interview, we'll hear about Amy's career path and get her thoughts on how we can deal with change and lean into uncertainty.
Bio Info
Webb is a Visiting Fellow at Oxford University’s Säid School of Business, a Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Atlantic Council’s GeoTech Center, a Fellow in the United States-Japan Leadership Program and a Foresight Fellow in the U.S. Government Accountability Office Center for Strategic Foresight. She was a Visiting Nieman Fellow at Harvard University, where her research received a national Sigma Delta Chi award. She was also a Delegate on the former U.S.-Russia Bilateral Presidential Commission, where she worked on the future of technology, media and international diplomacy. Webb has advised CEOs of some of the world’s largest companies, three-star generals and admirals and executive government leadership on strategy and technology.
Webb is the author of several popular books, including The Big Nine: How the Tech Titans and Their Thinking Machines Could Warp Humanity, which was longlisted for the Financial Times & McKinsey Business Book of the Year award, shortlisted for the Thinkers50 Digital Thinking Award, and won the 2020 Gold Axiom Medal for the best book about business and technology, and The Signals Are Talking: Why Today’s Fringe Is Tomorrow’s Mainstream, which won the Thinkers50 Radar Award, was selected as one of Fast Company’s Best Books of 2016, Amazon’s best books 2016, and was the recipient of the 2017 Gold Axiom Medal for the best book about business and technology. Webb was named by Forbes as one of the five women changing the world, listed as the BBC’s 100 Women of 2020, and the Thinkers50 Radar list of the 30 management thinkers most likely to shape the future of how organizations are managed and led.
"As a futurist, I'm always saying, what would it take for X to be Y?" - Amy Webb
Check out Amy's latest book on Amazon. The Genesis Machine: Our Quest to Rewrite Life in the Age of Synthetic Biology.
Future Today Institute: http://www.futuretodayinstitute.com
Twitter: @amywebb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FuturistAmyWebb
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywebb
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
On this episode, I feature an interview with talented harpist, singer and performer Kristen Gibbs. She and her band perform in and around Austin, Texas. As a professional musician, the global pandemic has impacted her performance schedule. So Kristen created a free neighborhood concert series to share her music with the local community.
"The Kristen Gibbs Band," also known as "The KGB," is a contemporary three piece cover band (Harp, Vocals, Drums and Bass). Take a look at these videos to see some of her recent performances. This is one of my favorites - from her 2019 Trail of Lights performance.
The music in the podcast was performed by Kristen Gibbs. The music clip at the end of the podcast was recorded live during a May Concert in the Cove.
You can contact Kristen at http://www.kristengibbs.com/contact.html
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
This mini-series focuses on how the COVID-19 virus is impacting and changing colleges and universities.
In this episode, I interview college success strategist Katy Oliveira, founder of Collegehood Advice. Her popular Collegehood Advice podcast, coaching sessions, resources and presentations work together to create a 21st century toolkit that teaches students how to maximize their college experience and create a meaningful life. She provides some tips about how students can educate themselves, gain experience and prepare for future opportunities. We both agree on the value of education and a growth mindset. Hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did. Thanks Katy!
Key Takeaways
- When you go out into the world, people will want to know, "What did you do during this time?"
- Planning is a part of preparation...and things often don’t go as planned
- Give yourself compassion and space, if needed
- Grow your knowledge base, build a network and connect with other people
- Realize that our pathways are not linear. The 21st century model gives you opportunities to work in line with your curiosity, talents and passion
- Learn about and lean into your strengths
- College provides an excellent way to get every single thing you need to launch your life --if you do it strategically
Guest Bio
Katy Oliveira helps teenagers and young adults align with who they are, identify what they want to do, and intentionally use education and experience to make it happen. She is the creator of the Life Launch Lab, a guided course to help you deepen your understanding of yourself and contribute your superpowers to the world. She is also the creator and host of the Collegehood Advice show where she helps students make the most of their college experience.
Katy has guided thousands of college students through their college experience over the last 15 years in her roles as a professional academic advisor, college success coach, Associate Director of Academic Counseling and Exploration, and an instructor of U.S. History and American Social Dilemmas. When she’s not helping others figure out their life you’ll find her in a kitchen, near a garden, or on a yoga mat in Austin,Texas.
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Many of us love to travel...meet new people...explore new places. But because of the global pandemic, all we can do now is reminisce about our past journeys, while we look forward to future adventures.
On this episode, I interview Danielle Brossart. She has traveled to six continents and 38 countries, many as a solo traveler. Brossart shares her passion for travel and talks about how it's changed her life. Danielle's practice of jotting notes, recording memories and saving mementos from her adventures led her to create Pack This Journal. I hope this episode inspires listeners to make plans now for the exciting journeys ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The journey from traveler to entrepreneur
- Travel shifts your mindset and builds self confidence
- Check reviews and plan your trip
- It's never too late to start
- Explore your own city, town, state
- Volunteer abroad
- Keeping a journal of your adventures can be fulfilling
- More travel info from Danielle at https://packthisjournal.com/blog/
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Show Notes
In this mini-series, we hear how the COVID-19 virus is impacting and changing colleges and universities. For this bonus episode, I interview graduating college senior Conner Yarbrough. Conner is an Electronic Media major in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University. He offers some great insight and perspective.
Key takeaways
- Concern about uncertain job prospects
- Media will change and may become more transparent
- Recognize that not all students have access to resources
- Education will change
- Businesses are becoming more innovative
- People are very conscious of how they interact with each other
- The change in routine can be challenging
- For some, the value of in person relationships has increased
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Show Notes
In this mini-series, we hear how the COVID-19 virus is impacting and changing colleges and universities. For this bonus episode, I interview graduating college senior Anne Cox. Anne is a Digital Media Innovation major in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University. You might recognize Anne from our trailer - she's the audio engineer and multimedia editor for this podcast.
Key takeaways
- Some graduating college seniors face an uncertain future
- Find a company or organization you want to work for, try and get in at any level, then move up
- Recognize and value essential workers at all levels
- Practice self care during this time
- You can find a story everywhere you look
- Use free time to update your LinkedIn profile, resume and portfolio
- Embrace technology
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Business goes Virtual with Scott Carson
Business is changing. Because of the Coronavirus or COVID-19, everyone is thinking virtual. We're teaching, shopping, working and connecting online. On this episode, I interview Investment Entrepreneur Scott Carson about ways to take traditional business meetings and conferences and turn them into virtual money making events.
Scott Carson is known as the Note Guy. He's founder and CEO of We Close Notes, a Texas-based real estate investment company that buys distressed assets on residential and commercial properties from banks and hedge funds. Over the last few years, Carson has become an expert in online meetings. Scott canceled a conference with low attendance and turned it into a successful virtual summit. He's a savvy entrepreneur, business coach and podcaster.
Key Takeaways
- Don't cancel your in person meeting, instead create a virtual, online summit
- Online meetings and virtual summits are easier than most people think
- The best thing you can do is start doing something online
- "You've got to evolve in today's markets with everything that is going on or you are going be extinct, out of business and working for somebody else."
- Listen and you'll learn a little known fact about Scott Carson
"And so if there's a way for you to serve a need, or be able to solve a problem then you've got something there, and I think that's the beautiful thing about online, summits, live streams. If you're answering an issue, solving a problem even if it's for one person."
- Scott Carson
Resources We Close Notes
The Note Closers Show Podcast
Scott Carson's LinkedIn contact
You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram @judyoskam
and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
If you love soccer, you'll enjoy listening to my interview with Dave Simeone. He is the technical director for the Red River National Professional League, United States Club Soccer.
You'll hear Dave's perspective on what passionate soccer fans call the 'beautiful game' and the changing soccer landscape. Simeone is an expert on the development of soccer in the United States.
Please make sure you listen to the end of our conversation- you're in for a real treat. You might learn something new about Dave Simeone.
Conversation Topics
- Growth and development of soccer in the U.S.
- Soccer connections like John Cossaboom, Schellas Hyndman, Carla Overbeck, Becky Burleigh, The Agoos brothers
- The sporting industry is a people business
- Bonnie Raitt
Resources:
- Soccer Development Strategies
- Red River National Professional League
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
Interdisciplinary Artist Elisa Jimenez
This episode features my interview with Elisa Victoria Jimenez – one of the most unique human beings I’ve ever met. I interviewed Elisa in New York in late 2019. My daughter, Danielle, worked with her as part of her internship with the New York Arts Program. A solo entrepreneur for more than 25 years, Elisa Jimenez decided at the age of 15 that her life would be her greatest work of art. She's interested in the relationship between art, life and humanity.
If you follow fashion - you might recognize Jimenez from her work with celebrity clients like Cher, Courtney Love, Sarah Jessica Parker, Serena Williams and more. She makes spontaneous… on-the-spot couture, sewing with monofilament or fishing line. Over the years, her designs have graced the pages of Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Elle. Elisa is also a Project Runway alum. Her creative roots run deep - she’s the daughter of famed designer and fine artist Vicky Balcou and the late internationally known sculptor Luis Jimenez.
Key Takeaways
· Where you spend your money matters.
· Change is the only constant.
· Learn about business and then you tweak it so it’s socially relevant.
· Empathy is a lost art.
“Keep change as your best friend, Elisa, and the unknown as your constant lover. If you know this about life, you will be better for it.” – Words of wisdom from mother Vicky Balcou to daughter Elisa Jimenez.
Resources
Elisajimenez.com
@elisajimeneznyc
https://shor.by/ElisaJimenez
You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram @judyoskam and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
In this episode, I talk with Chair Stylist Wendy Conklin. Wendy created her company, Chair Whimsy, in 2012. She designs custom, one-of-a-kind chairs and shares her expertise consulting and teaching online classes. During our interview, we talk about her journey and how she changed her career and her life. You'll also learn a little known fact about Wendy and hear a couple of her expert tips and practices.
"When you get more miserable and more miserable it’s easier to make the switch. I don’t think you make that switch until your misery is greater than the fear of the unknown."
- Wendy Conklin
What do you hope your daughters learn from your journey?
“I really hope, more than anything, that they see that life is about an adventure and not to be afraid of taking calculated risks, not to be afraid of change - if it be in their career or their life.” – Wendy Conklin
Key Takeaways:
- Take on challenges to keep growing
- "Courage is different than fear. You can have a lot of fear and still act in a courageous way."
- Think abundance and not scarcity
- Adopt some form of meditative practice
- Invest in a business coach
- Feedback is important
"Pattern mixing and color coordination are kind of my superpower and I enjoy it."
Resources:
- Chair Whimsy
- Chair Whimsy Etsy Shop
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
In this episode, I interview Emmy Award-Winning Journalist Lynn Walsh. Lynn is assistant director of the Trusting News Project.
Discussion topics
- Advice for journalists and news consumers
- Engagement roles in journalism
- The future of journalism
- The importance of your personal brand
Resources:
- Trusting News Project
You can connect with me on Instagram or Twitter @judyoskam or email me at drjudyoskam@gmail.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
This episode features Stacy Johnson. Stacy is the founder and CEO of Central Texas Table of Grace, an emergency center for children and teens in the foster system who have nowhere else to go. Stacy talks about her own journey through the foster system and how she beat the odds and changed her life. I found her story inspiring and motivating.
Key Takeaways
- The creative vision behind Central Texas Table of Grace
- The book that changed Stacy’s life
- The importance of setting goals
- How you can partner with Central Texas Table of Grace
Resources:
- Central Texas Table of Grace
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey
- Make Your Bed: Little Things that Can Change Your Life…and Maybe The World by Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret)
For more information, please contact:
Stacy Johnson, Founder/CEOCentral Texas Table of Grace
stacy@ctxtableofgrace.org
Office (512) 244-4335
Fax (512) 717-6336
Post Office Box 52
Round Rock, TX 78680
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
In this episode, I talk with Anthony ONeal about how students can change their future by earning a debt free degree. ONeal is the author of the best-selling book, Debt Free Degree: The Step-by Step Guide to Getting your Kid Through College Without Student Loans.
“The caliber of your future is determined by the choices you make today” – Anthony ONeal
Key Takeaways:
- Tips for college visits
- Identify a profitable major
- Consider community college or a gap year
- The importance of financial literacy
- Internships and negotiation
- Valuable routines, systems and relationships
- Everyone should have a plan
Resources:
- Debt Free Degree: The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Kid Through College Without Student Loans
- Downloads and resources to avoid student debt
Please share, subscribe and review this podcast. You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Tiny Habits & Strengths - Entrepreneurs
Includes CliftonStrengths Top 5 Assessment + Tiny Habits Method
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)
We're excited to bring you Stories of Change and Creativity. This interview podcast features interesting insights from professionals who inspire, educate and motivate. In this trailer, Audio Engineer Anne Cox and Producer Judy Oskam talk about the focus of the podcast.
You can connect with me via email at drjudyoskam@gmail.com or on Instagram and Twitter @judyoskam
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/storiesofchange)