Jump Start Your Joy: Recent Episodes
Paula Jenkins
Jump Start Your Joy is a podcast by Paula Jenkins, a business coach and podcast producer living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Inspired by the quote “Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day (Henri Nouwen),” this lively show looks at the inspiration, intention, and action that lead to joy in your life, the world, and other people's lives.
I’m excited to welcome back Andrea Owen! A lot has happened since her last visit in 2021, and she’s here to share her powerful journey over the past few years.
We dive into Andrea’s experience during the pandemic and how ‘pandemic time’ reshaped her perspective on life and relationships. She opens up about navigating divorce, facing health challenges, and receiving an autoimmune diagnosis, all while maintaining her commitment to personal growth and self-discovery. Andrea also highlights the importance of advocating for yourself in medical situations and what she’s learned along the way.
We explore how Andrea has embraced sex and intimacy as a path to personal growth, the transformative role of psychedelics therapy, and her journey toward living authentically. This conversation is full of honesty, inspiration, and actionable insights for anyone navigating life’s transitions.
In this episode, we cover:
- The last 4 or so years in Andrea's life, and how the pandemic, health issues, and divorce have shaped who she is today.
- Why we all need to slow down and take stock in life's difficulties, and not gloss over the hard stuff.
- Andrea's perspective on relationships and divorce.
- Challenges Andrea faced with her health and the impact of an autoimmune diagnosis.
- The importance of advocating for oneself in medical situations.
Resources:
Read the full show notes on Jump Start Your Joy
52 Ways to Live a Kick-Ass Life: BS-Free Wisdom to Ignite Your Inner Badass and Live the Life You Deserve by Andrea Owen
How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t by Andrea Owen
Make Some Noise: Speak Your Mind and Own Your Strength by Andrea Owen
Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat.
Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com
To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.
This episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Judith Tripp, a multifaceted leader who brings together spirituality, psychology, and art in her work. Judith is the force behind DreamQuest retreats at Grace Cathedral, a labyrinth facilitator, a transpersonal psychotherapist, and a musician.
In this episode, we explore:
- Judith’s impressive array of roles and talents, from leading DreamQuest to her work as a transpersonal psychotherapist and musician.
- The significance of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco as a central hub for DreamQuest retreats and labyrinth walks.
- The labyrinth’s deep personal and spiritual significance, and how it connects to the broader themes of interconnectedness in Judith’s work.
- How Judith integrates spirituality, psychology, and art in her career to create meaningful transformation.
- The importance of gathering and community, particularly in the context of post-pandemic reflections and the human need for connection.
We also discuss the beauty of stepping into liminal spaces, the power of collective inner work, and how these experiences can lead to profound joy and transformation. Judith shares reflections on her early life joys, the importance of intentional gatherings, and upcoming DreamQuest retreats.
This episode is filled with insights on spirituality, interconnectedness, and the transformative potential of community and inner work.
Read the full show notes at Jump Start Your Joy
Judith Tripp's website: CircleWay
DreamQuest Retreat registration
Judith Tripp's book: Circleway, The Story of Women's Dream Quest
Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com
To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.
In this week's episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I'm talking about the concept of 'glimmers,' which are the small instances of joy, hope, or inspiration that counterbalance life's triggers. The episode aims to provide listeners with ways to identify and cherish these glimmers, especially during times of chaos and uncertainty.
It's my intention that Jump Start Your Joy continues to be a comforting space through this podcast, offering weekly moments of respite and inspiration for all listeners.
I'd love to hear from you about how you've seen glimmers in your world, and you can email me a jumpstartyourjoy@gmail.com or tag me in a photo of your glimmer on instagram https://www.instagram.com/jumpstartyourjoy/
Highlights include the significance of glimmers, personal reflections, and a warm welcome message aimed to make listeners feel seen, heard, and cared for.
How to Look for Glimmers in Daily Life:
- Start each day with an intention to notice joy.
- Find calm in small moments: a sunrise, a warm cup of tea.
- Connect with nature, pets, or creativity for grounding.
- Capture glimmers mentally—relish and store them.
- Share glimmers with a friend or in a gratitude journal.
Read the full show notes on Jump Start Your Joy.
Resources
- USA Today article on glimmers
- URMC article on ambiguous loss
- Cory Allen on Instagram
- Julia Samuel on Jump Start Your Joy
- Fred LeBlanc on Jump Start Your Joy
Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024.
Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com
To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m thrilled to welcome Lars Howlett, a Master Labyrinth Builder and Advanced Labyrinth Facilitator, to explore the captivating world of labyrinths! Lars brings extensive knowledge about labyrinth building, labyrinth symbolism, and the power these sacred spaces have to transform lives.
We dive into Lars’ unique journey from photography teacher to apprentice with a renowned labyrinth master builder, giving listeners an inside look at what it means to create these intricate paths. Lars also shares fascinating insights about the historic labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral and its influence on today’s labyrinth movement.
Whether you’re new to labyrinths or a dedicated labyrinth enthusiast, this episode offers something special for everyone. Join us as we uncover the beauty and significance of labyrinths with Lars Howlett, and get inspired to explore this sacred art form in your own life!
Resources:
Read the full show notes on my website.
Find Lars Howlett's website, "Discover Labyrinths"
Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress
Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024.
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:02 Meet Lars Howlet: Master Labyrinth Builder 00:59 Exploring the World of Labyrinths 01:31 Lars' Early Sparks of Joy 03:50 Understanding Labyrinths: Definition and Symbolism 05:08 Labyrinths vs. Mazes: Key Differences 11:35 Lars' Journey to Becoming a Labyrinth Builder 19:26 The Calling of the Labyrinth 29:00 Exploring Labyrinth Designs 30:23 Creating Labyrinths for Different Spaces 31:03 The Process of Building a Labyrinth 31:39 Labyrinths as Unique Artworks 32:33 Designing for Accessibility 38:16 Historical Significance of Labyrinths 43:49 Guiding First-Time Labyrinth Walkers 48:14 The Joy of Labyrinth Creation 49:41 Connecting with Lars and Final Thoughts
In this heartwarming episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m taking you along with me on a journey back to Yale Divinity School for my 25th reunion—a place where old friendships, profound growth, and life’s deeper questions all come together. Reuniting with friends, revisiting cherished memories, and even leading a Labyrinth walk, I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to reconnect with both people and places that have shaped who we are.
I’ll share the magic of the labyrinth as both a spiritual tool and a metaphor for life’s journey—how its twists and turns mirror our own paths and how it can guide us through the beautiful complexities of growth, purpose, and joy.
In this episode, I'm sharing:
- The themes of reunions, self-discovery, and finding one's purpose through heartfelt conversations and experiences from recent events.
- My recent reunion with her friends from Yale Divinity School and UC Santa Barbara, and the special moments of revisiting cherished places.
- My deep connection with labyrinth walks and how they have been a source of inspiration and guidance in her life.
- The journey of her podcast, Jump Start Your Joy, from its inception in 2015 to its current focus on retreats and labyrinth facilitation.
- The importance of showing up, the transformative power of retreats, and how self-confidence can lead to personal and professional growth.
Resources
Interview with Christopher Freimuth: Gardens, Labyrinths, and Spiritual Journeys
The First episode: Kathleen Davies on 'More Light,' Love and Acceptance
Compassion Quest: Join us on November 23rd
Dr. Aimee, The Egg Whisperer: Choosing to Sparkle Everyday
Morgan Bolander on Singing, Songwriting, and Finding Joy
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Exciting Reunions 01:38 Welcome to Jump Start Your Joy 02:28 Reconnecting with Old Friends 04:34 Reflections on Life and Career 06:22 The Journey of Jump Start Your Joy 12:52 The Power of Showing Up 18:27 Rediscovering Purpose and Joy 25:33 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward
In this episode of 'Jump Start Your Joy,' join Paula in a rich conversation with Christopher Freimuth, a Yale Divinity School student and owner of CF Gardens in New York City. The episode unpacks Chris's journey from his rural upbringing in Connecticut to becoming a professional gardener in New York City, with a focus on the spiritual and ecological significance of gardening. Chris shares how he employs gardening to create ecological habitats and foster a connection to nature for his urban clients, emphasizing a meticulous approach to sourcing materials and plants.
In this coversation, we talk about:
- Christopher Freimuth's journey from rural Connecticut to professional gardening in NYC
- Gardening as a spiritual and ecological practice
- Chris’s transformative work on the Yale Divinity School Labyrinth
- The historical, cultural, and inclusive spiritual significance of labyrinths
- A reflection of the Minotaur's story from a queer perspective, inwhich Chris finds deep meaning in asking why the Minotaur was cast from his family and pushed into the realm of "other"
- What we can learn from embracing our "inner minotaur" (or those parts of ourselves that feel more difficult to embrace)
- Navigating life’s complexities through the metaphor of a labyrinth
- Practical ways to cultivate joy and community through public gardening initiatives
Resources:
CF Gardens website: https://cfgardens.com/
The Well Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith
Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress
Walking the Labyrinth: A Spiritual and Practical Guide by Sally Welch
Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024.
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
In this episode, Paula is joined by the remarkable Illana Burk, a coach and consultant with a passion for helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs thrive. Illana shares her journey from being a dancer to becoming a successful business mentor, diving into her philosophy on building values-based businesses. The conversation is filled with practical advice, laughter, and a fresh perspective on modern entrepreneurship.
Key Points That We Discuss:
- Illana Burk's background and journey from dancer to business mentor.
- The concept of 'feral preneurs' and how it differs from traditional solopreneurship.
- Practical advice on overcoming common 'stuck points' in solopreneurship and entrepreneurship.
- The significance of aligning your business with personal values over following mainstream business advice.
- How Illana successfully monetizes her podcast through live coaching sessions.
- Insight into Illana's 'Go For the No' program, which encourages embracing rejection as part of the growth process.
- The impact of moving to Portugal on Illana’s personal and professional life, highlighting the importance of life-work balance.
Additional Resources:
- Visit Illana Burk's website
- Check out Illana’s podcast 'Good Business with Illana Burk'
- Join the 'Go For the No' program
- Information about the 'Compassion Quest' retreat in Danville, California on August 17, 2024
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Jump Start Your Joy 00:17 Meet Illana Burk: Coach and Consultant 01:09 Warm Welcome and Episode Overview 03:08 Illana's Earliest Sparks of Joy 05:25 Journey from Dancer to Business Mentor 08:55 Challenges and Realizations in Entrepreneurship 15:28 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business
Liminal space is defined as the transitional space that can be physical, metaphorical, spiritual, or emotional. Pulling from examples in Disneyland, Proper People, & Station Eleven I'm looking at how we navigate through liminal space when we encounter it.
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/02/liminal-space/
In this episode, I'm discussing:
-
the definition of liminal space
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the four types of liminal space: physical, emotional, metaphorical, and spiritual
-
examples of liminal space in every day life
-
intentional liminal space and happenstance liminal space, and how they are different
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5 ways to work with liminal space when you encounter it in your life
Resources
Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ
What is Liminal Space on "A Liminal Space"
The Impact of Liminal Space on Mental Health on Very Well Mind
The Proper People on YouTube
Liminal Space at Disney Parks by Offhand Disney
Station Eleven on HBO Max
Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube
Love the show, and what to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/navigating-politics-and-self-care-with-expert-tami-hackbarth/
In this episode, I'm joined by Tami Hackbarth, a seasoned author, activist, and advocate for 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care. Together, they explore the crucial intersection of self-care and activism, especially vital in today’s political climate. Tami shares practical strategies for sustaining joy and energy, even when the world feels overwhelming.
Key Takeaways:
Self-Care is Essential: Prioritize self-care to maintain your energy and effectiveness in activism. Incorporate daily practices such as walking, meditation, and screen-free time to manage stress and enhance your well-being.
Know Your Values: Use your core values as a compass for your actions and decisions, helping you stay grounded and focused amidst political challenges.
Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Utilize deep canvassing techniques to have constructive, impactful discussions about politics, fostering understanding and collaboration within your community.
Resources
Tami Hackbarth's website and podcast
Tami's book: The Essential Guide to 100% Guilt Free Self Care
The Persuaders by Anand Giridharadas The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
Words to Win By with Anat Shenker-Osorio (podcast) The NewsWorthy with Erica Mandy (podcast) Resistance Live with Elizabeth Cronise McLaughlin (YouTube)
Mobilize US – Find and join local activism events.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 Deep Dive into Self-Care and Activism 03:51 Practical Self-Care Tips 06:43 Meditation and Self-Compassion 10:56 Political Landscape and Activism 20:42 Effective Communication in Activism 27:56 Discovering Trusted News Sources 29:27 The Impact of News on Mental Health 32:45 Understanding Stress Responses 34:35 The Importance of Self-Care 37:53 Deep Canvassing and Political Engagement 39:09 Building Community and Connection 42:31 Tami Hackbarth's Offerings 51:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/transforming-life-and-leadership-through-kindness-with-lara-heacock
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, host Paula Jenkins welcomes Lara Heacock, executive coach, and Editor-in-Chief of Kind Over Matter. We discuss the practices of kindness and joy, and how these have become essential tools in navigating today's world. Lara shares her journey from corporate America to becoming an advocate for kindness, including tangible tips for practicing self-kindness and integrating these values into professional settings. With a deep dive into the emotional facets of empathy, integrity, and resilience, this conversation offers valuable insights the audience can apply in their daily lives.
Resources:
Kind Over Matter: https://kindovermatter.com/
Lara Heacock's website: https://laraheacock.com/
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock: https://amzn.to/3Y9PrPI
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 05:01 Practices of Kindness and Joy 31:19 Self-Kindness and Practical Tips 24:18 Kindness in Leadership 40:06 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/08/return-to-nature-emma-loewe/
Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this month’s theme of “finding home,” and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.
In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:
- How the idea of this book came about
- A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature.
- My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees.
- What a forest bath is, and how to experience one
- The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans
- How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming way
Resources
Emma Loewe’s book, “Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us” on Bookshop.org
Emma Loewe’s website
Emma Loewe on Instagram
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Reflecting on Nature's Restorative Power
01:04 Engaging with the Audience
02:24 Introducing Emma Lowey and Her Book
03:18 Emma's Early Inspirations and Environmental Path
04:26 The Personal and Passionate Journey of Writing
06:21 The Impact of Nature on Mental Health
09:20 The Science Behind Nature's Benefits 09:48 Creative Processes During the Pandemic
12:14 Exploring Different Landscapes 13:35 The Healing Power of Water and Forests
23:08 Practical Steps for Environmental Action
26:21 Emma's Personal Practices and Final Thoughts
31:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/celebrating-37-years-of-joy-an-interview-with-retiring-educator-molly-barnes/
In this heartfelt episode, Paula interviews Molly Barnes, the beloved principal and superintendent of Sunol Glenn Elementary. Molly shares her passionate journey in education, reflecting on the joy and challenges of her career. Listeners get an inside look at her unique approach to fostering a welcoming and enthusiastic school environment. Discover the powerful moments and intentional choices that have made Sunol Glenn Elementary a special place for students, parents, and staff alike. As Molly prepares for her well-deserved retirement, she discusses the importance of building strong community relationships, supporting educators, and creating joyful learning experiences. Tune in to hear moving stories, valuable insights, and the impactful legacy of a dedicated educator who truly made a difference.
Resources:
Molly receiving the Woman of the Year Award from Alex Lee
Coverage of Molly's retirement in the Pleasanton Weekly
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Here are some of the key moments in this interview:
Earliest Sparks of Joy in Education: Molly Barnes talks about her childhood experiences that ignited her passion for education, including her love for school supplies and the excitement of preparing for a new school year.
Impact of Political Climate in Education: Molly reflects on the challenges posed by the political environment and its influence on the school district, emphasizing the importance of keeping the focus on students' well-being and learning.
Importance of Community in Education: Molly shares the significance of building a strong sense of community within the school, highlighting the roles of teachers, parents, and students in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Molly Barnes' Retirement Plans: As she approaches retirement, Molly discusses her future plans, including spending time with her family and potentially volunteering in local schools to continue her passion for education.
Supporting Educators and Teachers: Both Paula and Molly discuss the critical role parents and the community can play in supporting teachers and school staff. They emphasize the need for understanding, communication, and collaboration to foster a positive educational experience for all.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:19 Meet Molly Barnes: A Celebrated Educator
02:13 Molly's Early Sparks of Joy
03:11 The Excitement of Back-to-School
06:20 The Role of Community in Education
09:19 Navigating Political Challenges
13:03 A Unique Commuter School
20:25 The Benefits and Challenges of a Small School
26:16 Memorable Moments at Sunol Glen
30:41 Heartfelt Reflections
32:05 The Changing Landscape of Education
35:36 Supporting Teachers and Administrators
36:50 Challenges in the Teaching Profession
42:27 Memorable Teachers and Experiences
45:22 Award Recognition and Community Support
47:22 Retirement Plans and Future Aspirations
51:02 Spreading Joy and Final Thoughts
52:56 Closing Remarks and Reflections
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/activism-and-resilience-with-christy-tending-writing-through-grief-and-joy/
I'm welcoming back my friend and author Christy Tending. Christy is joining me to discuss her new book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," which is a lyrical exploration of disobedience, grief, healing, and climate activism. Packed with heartfelt reflections and practical advice for activists, Christy's book offers a unique blend of memoir and guide.
We also dive into a thoughtful conversation about the personal and societal challenges we've faced over the last few years, highlighting the importance of community, preparedness, and personal resilience. We discuss the practical aspects of activism, the emotional toll of recent global events, and how Christy's writing has navigated these complex landscapes.
Key Highlights:
- Christy talks about the inspiration and process behind writing "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," including the challenges of writing about deeply personal and societal issues.
- The importance of community and collective efforts in activism and beyond.
- Practical tips for personal and activist preparedness, including a PSA about phone security.
- The process of submitting work to literary magazines and dealing with rejection as a writer.
- Encouragement for creators to pursue their projects without waiting for external validation or permission.
Resources:
- Find Christy's book: ChristyTending.com/books
- Follow Christy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christytending
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Buy Christy's book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3W71dc4
-
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
- Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
- Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
00:20 Introducing Christy and Her New Book
00:33 Exploring the Themes of the Book
01:04 Community and Resources for Listeners
02:08 Christy's Journey and Writing Process
03:37 Navigating Modern Challenges
10:47 Practical Tips for Activists
15:13 Emergency Preparedness and Community Support
21:39 The Power of Community in Publishing
26:56 The Weird Book Thing
27:05 Self-Publishing Journey
27:48 Making Cool Stuff Without Permission
29:04 The Challenges of Writing a Book
30:18 Processing Isolation and Loss
39:37 The Role of an Editor
41:16 The Importance of Specificity in Writing
48:58 Finding Joy in the Little Things
50:59 Final Thoughts and Inspiration
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/finding-joy-through-structure-and-elegance-with-jennifer-l-scott/
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, Paula interviews Jennifer L. Scott, the New York Times bestselling author of the Madam Chic Series and content creator behind The Daily Connoisseur, who shares how adding structure and more formality to life can bring intentional joy.
Jennifer highlights her experiences living with a traditional family in Paris, her journey as a YouTuber through the Daily Connoisseur, and how she navigates homeschooling while balancing her professional life.
The conversation dives into how self-discipline and mindful living can transform daily routines, and Jennifer offers tips on being present, observing nature, and incorporating lifelong learning into one's lifestyle. Paula also introduces a new segment on inspiration, intention, or action, encouraging listeners to continually seek personal growth.
Resources:
Buy Jennifer's Book, Lessons From Madam Chic: https://amzn.to/3KYSCln
The Daily Connoisseur on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEnEnLT5wBVnK56QFRg_Iwg
Jennifer L. Scott's website: https://jenniferlscott.com/
Jump Start Your Joy's website: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/
Labyrinth Walk information: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:42 Jennifer L. Scott's Background and YouTube Channel 03:34 The Joys of Childhood and Early Inspirations 05:40 Writing the Madam Chic Series 08:08 Living a Formal Life: Lessons from Paris 10:43 Pandemic Reflections and Seeking Structure 16:23 Community Feedback and Personal Transformations 22:28 The Struggles of YouTube Content Creation 22:58 Taking YouTube Seriously 24:25 Balancing YouTube and Personal Life 26:36 The Chic Assignments 29:54 Homeschooling and Delegation 31:17 The Reality Behind YouTube Success 34:21 Future Plans and Community Building 37:37 Final Thoughts and Inspirations
Get the full show notes: Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy Alison Arngrim, the actress best known for her role as Nellie Oleson on 'Little House on the Prairie' joins Paula in this look back episode. This episode, originally recorded a few years ago, is revisited as Paula and her son prepare to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead and on the 50th anniversary of the TV show. Alison shares her journey from suffering abuse as a child to finding empowerment through acting. She discusses her audition for Nellie Oleson, her experiences working with Michael Landon, and her transformation into an AIDS activist after her co-star Steve Tracy's death. Alison also touches on the dynamics with her castmates, the impact of the show globally, and her post-'Little House' work, including her standup comedy and public speaking on surviving abuse. The episode emphasizes Alison's decision to turn her situation into a source of joy and advocacy. Listeners are also guided to check out the show notes and follow Paula's adventures in Kansas on Instagram. Resources Alison Arngrim's Bonnetheads.com website (sign up for the Nellie Newsletter here) Alison Arngrim's Book, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch on Amazon Love the show, and want to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:31 Revisiting a Classic Episode 01:04 Welcome New Listeners 01:48 Introducing Alison Arngrim 03:04 Alison's Early Career and Little House on the Prairie 05:13 The Audition for Nelly Olson 11:42 The Global Impact of Little House on the Prairie 14:42 Behind the Scenes with Michael Landon 19:25 The Friendship with Melissa Gilbert 21:58 Public Reactions and Personal Reflections 31:29 Navigating Early Uncertainty 32:02 Building a Support System 32:54 A Love Story Blossoms 33:26 Shared Values and Compatibility 35:44 Embracing Public Recognition 39:31 Turning Fame into a Force for Good 43:05 Confessions of a Prairie Bitch 45:21 Empowering Women Through Lectures 51:03 Practical Advice for Aspiring Changemakers 56:03 Finding Joy in Everyday Life
Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/exploring-trauma-and-joy-with-author-jen-soriano
Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy
In this episode of Jumpstart Your Joy, Paula interviews Jen Soriano, a Filipinx writer and movement builder, about her experiences with trauma and healing. They discuss Jen's book 'Nervous Essays on Heritage and Healing,' the effects of trauma, and the importance of addressing collective pain. The conversation delves into the difference between trauma-informed and trauma-wise approaches, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the pressing issues within local communities, such as the banning of pride flags in schools.
Jen also shares her personal journey through grief and chronic pain and offers practical advice and insights into the fundamentals of healing and finding joy.
Find Jen Soriano's website: https://www.jensoriano.net/
Jen Soriano on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensorianowrites
Buy the book: https://amzn.to/4cfAkrw
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00:00 Welcome to Season Eight! 01:03 Introducing Jen Soriano 01:38 Diving into Trauma and Healing 04:16 Jen's Childhood Joys 06:21 The Birth of a Book 10:17 Understanding Trauma 15:23 Chronic Pain and Trauma 22:54 The Fluidity of Our Nervous Systems 25:09 Rewiring Neural Circuits for Joy 27:25 The Pandemic's Collective Trauma 29:44 Addressing Global and Local Issues 32:28 School Board Controversies and Trauma 42:15 Healing Trauma and Finding Joy 46:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/what-do-you-stand-for/ In the first episode of Season 8 of 'Jumpstart Your Joy,' I'm returning after an 18-month break to discuss the profound changes and reflections experienced during the hiatus. The episode dives into themes of intentional living, navigating grief, the importance of setting boundaries, challenging hustle culture, and the reverberating impact of focusing on internal growth over external validation. Emphasizing the significance of finding joy even amidst hard times, the host also introduces upcoming topics and invites listeners to join a vibrant community centered around positivity and personal growth. Want to Learn More About Labyrinths and get a Labyrinth Walking guide? Sign up on my website. https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Resources:
Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan: Discover the Joy of Spending Less, Sharing More, and Living Generously by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller
Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie
High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out by Amanda Ripley
Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate)
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00:00 Welcome Back to Jumpstart Your Joy 01:00 Reflecting on a Long Break 01:28 Intentional Living and Time Management 01:59 Navigating Grief and Personal Loss 03:20 Understanding Growth Beyond Hustle Culture 09:07 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 14:05 Finding Joy Amidst Societal Challenges 24:29 The Power of Intentionality and Reflection 25:11 Embracing Labyrinth Work 29:48 Looking Forward: Season Eight Plans
This week's episode is the finale of season seven where I've been talking all about intentional comfort and how to bring more comfort and ease into your everyday life.
If you have not yet listened to the episode where I did the countdown of the top 10 most downloaded episodes, you can tune in here.
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Choose comfort, and build it into our lives. I think we are looking for a way to wind down and a way to hold space for the things that we've done and to take a breather. It may be that the world feels heavy, and that you need a break. Mirror what you choose to do with what the seasons do. Winter is a time of darkness and quiet and solitude. And so I think comfort and joy are bookends for each other, but I think they also go hand in hand.
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See it as riding the wave. If youcan ride the wave of whateverdifficult thing you're facing, and intentionally schedule in comfort, you will be in a better place. It can be helpful to know that this current situation is temporary, and ride it out. And, you can get through it by clinging to that intentional comfort that we are setting up for yourself.
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Everything is cyclical. Hard times, good times. Comforting times, overwhelming times. It's all cyclical. Knowing that there is a season for each thing that sometimes will be easier. Sometimes it'll be harder. And knowing this can maybe help you find comfort in one that the season will change just like if you ride out the wave. But in two, that, that this is part of the bigger plan and pattern.
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Learn to live an "Untethered Life," as inspired by the book by Michael A Singer. The really big takeaway for me with that book is that you can start to question some of the patterns and habits that you recognize that you have after you spent some time looking at them. Because comfort can come from getting to know yourself instead of fighting whatever comes up and ruminating on whatever comes up.
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Joy and happiness is comforting. Make time for whatever it is that makes you happy. Let go of the expectations and the pressure of day-to-day life that's telling us what we "should" do or want. Learning to let yourself be in the present moment, without feeling the need to document for social media or feel the pressure to share every detail with anyone else.
Resources:
Season 7 Countdown (finale pt 1)
Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate)
Join me for a Virtual Labyrinth walk (free) on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 1pm PST | 4pm EST
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Andrea Scher has thrilled and inspired others for nearly twenty years through her award-winning blog Superhero Journal, her international workshops, her Creative Superheroes podcast, and her joyful e-courses. In this episode, we discuss Andrea’s new book, Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today, and how and she describes why this is the perfect time to tune into the small things that bring you joy.
Read the full show notes on my website. Click here.
In this episode, Andrea and I talk about:
- Why Andrea was inspired to write her book to inspire others to add more wonder and magic to their lives
- What a Wonder Seeker actually is and how wonder relates to joy
- Becoming braver and more resilient as you pivot your attention towards wonder and joy
- How Wonder Seekers create comfort by being open-hearted and cultivating a spirit of kindness and love
- Some of the exercises in Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today and why 144 is her personal favorite
- How Andrea sets intentions and the magic the practice can bring
- How to move past the rigid routines of the last 18 months and embrace the magic and wonder your world has to offer
- Andrea’s e-courses, retreats, and creative workshops, and how to find out more about her
- Three ways Andrea recommends to jump-start joy in your life, in the world, or other people’s lives?
Resources
Preorder Andrea Scher's book: Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake Up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy
Get your free gift from Andrea after purchasing Wonder Seeker here
Andrea Scher's Superhero Life
Andrea Scher on Instagram
Other books and resources we mention in this episode
The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Wisdom, and Love: Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson
Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence by Rick Hanson
Camera Obscura in San Francisco
Intentional Comfort is the theme of this season, and in this episode I'm taking inspiration from Priya Parker's Art of Gathering, and using her 3 rules of gathering to consider new ways to reconnect with what nourishes, fortifies, and supports you. While her Ted Talk is about how to interact in groups and gatherings in new ways, I find that her rules and thoughts offer insights on how to connect with yourself, and how to determine what is meaningful to you when looking for intentional comfort.
Here are the basics of what I'm covering:
Don't leave it to chance
This is the intentional part of things. If we leave the relationship and connection we have to and with ourselves to chance, it's far too easy to focus on the basics and logistics of life, and ignore time for self care. If you're longing for more time for yourself, or time to do thoughtful, comforting things, schedule that time in.
Embrace your purpose
For many of you, especially over the stretch of the pandemic, you may have developed some habits that aren’t really serving you. And, while they likely did serve you for a period of time, now that we’re nearly into the third year of all of this, I think the way we look at comfort and what fortifies us has likely changed. It’s become super apparent that this isn’t about a sprint, this is about a transition. What is the purpose, or meaning, behind setting up time for intentional comfort?
How can you craft something that supports and nourishes you, as we all work through this transition together?
What is the purpose of what you want to do, in finding comfort?
What would meet your needs?
If you’re looking for an escape, what does that look like given any of your current constraints?
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, why?
And if you dig a layer deeper, is there something you feel is missing?
Cause good controversy
Priya says that “human connection is as threatened by unhealthy peace as it is by unhealthy conflict.” And, I’d add that this connection is true for gatherings as it is for the connection you and I have with ourselves.
For this, I’d ask yourself what do you need, right now? Drop any sort of “shoulds” or polite answers. You're answering this just for yourself.
Some of these answers might be overly simple: a walk, a shower, a drink of water, a meal
Some of these answers might be more complicated and feel harder to figure out: a feeling of connectedness, quiet time when I’m not needed by anyone else, a day to just bake cookies and connect with the holiday spirit
How can you do this? It might feel like it involves creating some good controversy, especially if it involves speaking up to divide up housework with your family, to find quiet time, to find time to pursue a hobby, or to interview for a new job. You may need help from other people to do these things. So, dive in and ask yourself what you need and then figure out what kind of help you need from other people in your family.
The other side of this good controversy could be a totally inside job. It could be that you’ve been sitting with something for a long time that doesn’t feel so great, and in order to find comfort and joy on the other side, you need to work through it. You may need to break through a Story - or something you’re assuming is true but isn’t really true.
Use "pop up" rules
Priya suggests this for groups that gather that don’t necessarily share the same background, or are part of the same generation, culture, or rules for etiquette. She says in those situations, you can set up pop up rules to encourage meaningful connection.
What if you changed your own rules for a bit? What rules could you set for yourself, just for a day or a week, to support yourself?
An example might be: set a bedtime for yourself for the next week if you are tired.
Make a rule for yourself that this week, you will slow down and have an afternoon snack and see how that feels.
Limit your interaction with people who stress you out, if possible.
Maybe if there’s a particular person that tends to upset you but you know you’ll see at a holiday event, maybe set a rule that you can leave after a certain amount of time at the event, or request that you not be seated next to them?
This might mean that you’re asking for something slightly different of yourself and other people - and that could be uncomfortable. So, let it be an experiment. Try out what something new looks like.
Wrap up
These ideas are all so applicable to how we can find intentional comfort and joy in our lives. It’s so easy to get into habits that don’t really support you, but have addressed discomfort you may have been feeling. Intentional Comfort is all adding a layer of mindfulness to what you do every day. I have been looking for ways to intentionally add nurturing and nourishing habits to my days, and find that when I make those choices, I do find more joy, too.
Resources
Priya Parker's Ted Talk
Stasia Savasuk on Jump Start Your Joy (episode 303)
The Joy Diet by Martha Beck
The Work of Byron Katie
Loving What is by Byron Katie
Signe Myers Hovem is a spiritual counselor, an energy worker, and the author of The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide. In this interview on Jump Start Your Joy podcast, we are talking about empaths and highly sensitive people (HSPs).
If you are a highly sensitive person, or if you have a sense that you may be an empath, then I think you're going to get a lot out of this conversation (which ties so closely to this season's theme of intentional comfort on the podcast). HSPs and empaths notice the energy around people and places and things, and this can be overwhelming to them. The Empath's Field Guide, and this conversation, offers a lot of insight on how to manage your energy, hold space, and work with your gifts.
In this episode, Signe Myers Hovem talk about:
- What it means to be a functional empath.
- The difference between empathy versus being an empath.
- Exploring what it means to identify as a highly sensitive person.
- The power of our words and what we choose to call things.
- Minding your energy, and holding space without having your own energy drained.
- How to set up strong boundaries with people, places, or things if you feel an energetic drain and decide if you want to get involved further.
- How do we navigate through the space of being an empath or an HSP in everyday life?
Resources
Signe Myers Hovem's website
The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide by Signe Myers Hovem
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Season 7 was all about "Intentional Comfort." This episode shares the top ten most downloaded and beloved episodes from season 7.
They are:
10. Emma Loewe, author of Return to Nature
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
9. 5 Tips to Bring More Mindfulness to You Everyday
Listen to the episode
8. Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth on Finding a Mardi Gras State of Mind
Listen to the original episode
Buy their best of album.
7. Heather Hall, Author of Step Up and Stand Out: 20 Tips for Aspiring Introverted Leaders
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
6. Jenn Oglesbee: Intentional Comfort and Joy in the Midst of Grief
Listen to the original episode
5. Stasia Savasuk: Wearing Your Word of the Year
Listen to the original episode
4. 10 Things to Inspire More Passion and Joy in Your Life and Work
Listen to the original episode
3. Finding Your Heart's Second Home
Listen to the original episode
2. William J. Peters, Author of At Heaven's Door
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
1. Scott Leftwich, owner of "Weiners and Losers," and 80s arcade, Airbnb and band member.
Listen to the original episode
Resources
Brene Brown's "Living Our Values" Exercise
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Are you looking for ways to define what brings you joy, and identify your passions? In this episode I'm sharing 2 exercises to help figure out what you're passionate about and 10 ways to bring more of that passion to your work and your life.
Read the full show notes on my website
- Introspection - Using the tools above, or working with a coach, a mentor, or a journal can provide a lot of insight for you. It's also important that you take time to heal any sort of past trauma or issues that might be making it hard for you to define or get in touch with your passions.
- Just start moving and working on things. Lots of times people think that they need to have everything all figured out before they can take the first step. Instead, think of the first logical step and give it a try.
- Let your passion stand on it's own. If you're interested in something, give it a try. Sometimes, instead of taking a first step, you may think that you need to have a plan to monetize a hobby, or have an end goal in mind for why you'd begin working on it. Passion and creativity are often most joyful when they are done for the sake of being fun and playful. You don't need an end "result" on the horizon to begin.
- It's OK to make bold moves. You often learn the most when you try something that is out of your comfort zone. Many people worry that they will "fail" when they try something they haven't done before. What if you removed that idea from the equation, and decided that there was no such thing as failure when it comes to following your passion?
- It's OK to "go back" to something if your first try doesn't work the way you'd planned. If you are working on building a business, and it doesn't work the way you'd envisioned the first time, it's OK to go back to work that supports you and your family. There's no shame, and nothing lost in continuing your quest as a side hustle, or starting over with a new focus.
- Notice if you've had "enough." You might discover that something that once brought you joy no longer does. Or, you might realize that you've had enough at a job that isn't serving you, or that you're no longer interested in continuing a hobby or a business that you once enjoyed. This is natural and part of being human.
- Look for the pivot points. I also call this being "well planned and loosely held," but notice when you see something shifting before your eyes in your plans. Often times, as you begin to build something your focus changes. You can also shift your business or your hobby or your interests to match those changes.
- Follow what feels right. If you've grown tired of doing something, stop. If something else feels interesting or bring you joy, do that. Resist staying with something just because you "should."
- The universe will give you opportunities to show you that you can do it. As you begin to grow your hobby or your passion or business, you'll see that the universe will show you that you're very capable of doing something. Looking back, you'll be able to see that you overcame challenges to get to where you are. Stop to celebrate those wins. You grow and change as your interests do, and it's always good to notice that you did something you once thought might be impossible.
- You'll get more of something when you're ready. This may have to do with manifesting, or with growth. You'll see that once you've got a grasp of how to do something, you'll often be faced with opportunities that allow you to grow. Be intentional about the growth. You might find that old versions of what you thought you wanted resurface. It's OK to say no to things that don't fit you, anymore
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Resources
Resources
Brene Brown's "Living Our Values" Exercise
ClaimPodParity List and Website
Heather Hall, Coach for Introverts
Interview with Lauren Artress about Labyrinth
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I'm really excited to have author Renee Linnell back on JSYJ!. This is her second time on the podcast, and in this brand new conversation, we're talking about her book that came out on August 16, 2022, which is titled "Still on Fire: A Memoir."
Renee first came on the show when her first book, "The Burn Zone," came out. This book was was all about how she found herself in a cult several years ago. Her new book is a delightful continuation of her amazing craft of storytelling. The themes that come through in her new book are all around trusting your intuition, manifesting things in your life, and the idea that this life is a continuation of your soul's ongoing journey.
Of course, these are some of my very favorite themes and there's such joy and delight in this conversation with Renee.
Resources:
Renee Linnell's first interview on JSYJ
Renee Lineell's book: "Still on Fire: A Memoir"
Renee Linnell's book: "The Burn Zone"
Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this month’s theme of “finding home,” and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.
Read the full show notes on my website.
In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:
- How the idea of this book came about
- A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature.
- My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees.
- What a forest bath is, and how to experience one
- The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans
- How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming way
Resources
Emma Loewe’s book, “Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us” on Bookshop.org
Emma Loewe’s website
Emma Loewe on Instagram
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Creativity and joy are closely related. If you're feeling stuck, and need some inspiration on how to tap into creativity - Marion Abrams of Grounded Content and I have 8 ideas for you to jumpstart your creativity and joy.
Here they are:
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Just do the thing. Starting is the hardest part.
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Double down on what you've been doing. Recommit to it.
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Take yourself on an "artist's date. " (as inspired by Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way)
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Revisit the source of your inspiration. What started you on your creative journey? Spend time with that, and DO some of it.
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If you're creating something and have data that can inform you as to what has done the best (on your blog, podcast, social media), spend some time looking at what past episodes or posts have done the best. Go back and look at what some of your favorite past work has been, and take inspiration from that.
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Take a break or a breather.
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What has been the favorite thing you've created for your show / blog / art? What did you love about it, or love about creating it? Use your past favorite work as inspiration for what comes next.
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Go pro, as inspired by Steven Pressfield's "War of Art." Sometimes, you are not going to love your art or the thing you create. And, that's when you need to go back to it and do the work.
Bonus: try "Morning Pages" as an exercise, (Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way)
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Resources:
Podcasting and Content Creator Insights / Our YouTube Show
Marion's site and Grounded Content
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
The Art of War by Steven Pressfield
Big Magic by Liz Gilbert
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
The weighty-ness of the past two years means we're all working through difficult things. Joy is as important now as ever before. Joy gives you room for "overflow" which allows you to be more present & available for the things that matter most.
In this episode, I'm sharing:
-
a quote that made me rethink the role of joy in the world, and why we must keep choosing it.
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How the current news cycle, and use of fear by many politicians and mass media keeps us stuck in feeling like we can't do anything but stay plugged in to the fire hose of fear that they create.
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Why and how joy is important: taking time for joy-filled things like concerts, writing, creative outlets, and other things means you build overflow.
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How overflow allows you to do more of the important things you love. And how that can change the world.
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Follow Jump Start Your Joy on your favorite podcasting app
Resources:
Episode with Sonya Renee Taylor
Support "The Body is Not an Apology"
Support "ARD (Anti-Racism Daily) Newsletter"
Find & Subscribe to The Newsworthy (a daily news podcast)
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Jenn Oglesbee is a certified life coach and licensed clinical social worker, and the discussions that she and I had last summer on Instagram Live are what me to choose the “Intentional Comfort” for season seven on Jump Start Your Joy. We had a series called “What the Hell?,” and in it we discussed the events of the past couple of years, and how they impacted our lives. Jenn and I share a love of talking about joy, and have both woven it into our work.
It’s an honor to have Jenn come back a year later, and share more about her own journey. In December of 2021, Jenn lost her sister to a rare form of brain cancer. She has been open in sharing about how the grief has shown up in her life, and how losing someone as close as a sibling has felt. She and I had had an interview on the books at the end of last year, and she asked to reschedule our discussion until after she felt ready to talk about things. And, she offered to dive into how finding and making space for intentional comfort in the midst of grief has looked for her over the past few months.
Resources
Jenn Oglesbee’s website: https://www.jennoglesbee.com/
Our three Instagram lives from last summer: Part One Part Two Part Three
The mashup of the three Instagram Lives, as heard on Jump Start Your Joy
In this episode, Jenn Oglesbee and I talk about: * her joy as a child, doing dance parties, writing, and playing * the uncertainty involved around her sister’s illness and diagnosis, and navigating supporting her during the COVID pandemic * the difference between coaching and therapy * looking for the little joys in life during hard times, even when joy feels like it is hard to grasp * the grief and uncertainty that many of us felt during the pandemic * surrendering to grief * giving yourself permission to take a break for emotions other than grief during mourning * how writing can help you process big emotions * sharing what feels right, to the right people, when you are ready * reconnecting with joy * how she jump starts her joy: with downtime, making time for creativity, giving yourself permission to look weird and feel foolish
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Mindfulness is a great way to find more joy and center yourself. In this time of transition, when things feel difficult, it's great to have a few easy, go-to mindfulness tools.
The five are:
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Notice your emotions, and share them with someone else.
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Breathe, as taught by Thich Nhat Hanh. I share his practice of inhaling, exhaling, and smiling.
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Observe (or spend time in) Nature. As discussed in my previous episode with Emma Loewe, author of Return to Nature, nature has restorative properties for humans. When you feel stressed, take a moment to look out your window or take a break for a walk if you have the time.
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Meditate, using a visual or guided meditation.
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Spend time walking a labyrinth, either by physically walking a labyrinth or using a hand labyrinth.
Resources:
Emma Loewe on Jump Start Your Joy
Insight Timer (Sarah Blondin) - for guided meditations
Insight Timer (my channel: Paula Jenkins) - for guided meditations
World Labyrinth Locator to walk a labyrinth
Veriditas, a non profit that offers courses on about labyrinths
Kennolyn Camp
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In tying in with this season's theme of "Intentional Comfort," and the mini series on "Finding Home," I'm excited to share about how finding and honoring your heart's second home. The idea of having homes beyond the physical place you dwell is one that hit me in about 2004, when I attended a retreat at San Damiano in Danville, CA. It became clear to me that some places feel like home, usually because of the community or the connection I had to them. In this episode, I'm sharing a few of those places, what they mean to me, and how you can also find and honor your heart's second home.
Read the full show notes on my website.
Resources
Laura Joyce Davis on Jump Start Your Joy, talking about Shelter in Place
San Damiano Retreat in Danville, CA
Kennolyn Camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Sea Ranch
UC Santa Barbara
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Laura Joyce Davis started her podcast, Shelter in Place, just as the pandemic shut California and the United States down on March 17, 2020. We talk about finding joy in hard times, defining the meaning of home, and sheltering in place as parents. Laura is a Minneapolis native who now calls Oakland home. She is an award-winning fiction writer, a Fulbright scholar, a WNYC Podcast Accelerator finalist, and a two-time Pushcart Prize nominee. She is a mom of three young kids who believe that anything is possible if you have a cape, a crown, and a very good book (she doesn’t disagree). In past lives she’s been a collegiate running coach, a Big Ten athlete, an award-winning a cappella singer, and a blue ribbon winner at the 4-H county fair. Both at Shelter in Place and in Laura’s past writing are grounded in the conviction that changing our communities begins with changing ourselves.
In this episode, Laura and I talk about:
- what sheltering in place was like with children
- the overwhelming impacts of the fires in California in August 2020
- Laura's family moving to Massachusetts during the pandemic
- the first two seasons of Shelter in Place the podcast
- how we look to define "home"
- the three ways that Laura jump starts joy: playing, speaking, and listening
Resources:
Shelter in Place Podcast website
KASAMA Collective
She Podcasts Live
Claim Pod Parity
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Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
In this interview, I am so honored to be joined by author Sonya Renee Taylor. Sonya is the author of the the New York Times Bestselling book, “The Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love.” She just recently released an updated version of that book, and the “Your Body is Not an Apology Workbook: Tools for Living Radical Self Love.” Sonya is joining me to talk all about radical self-love and joy. And, she shares that when we start to love ourselves, we can transform how we interact with others in the world. Sonya Renee Taylor and I talked about:
– her early joys of creating radio shows with her friend
– slam poetry festivals, and how entering them fed her soul
– how “The Body is Not an Apology” got started
– how the Genesis story in the Judeo-Christian tradition relates to shame and body image
– how to tell if your joy is coming from an altruistic place, or if it may have residue on it
– embracing radical self love
– why radical self love is not easy work
– the indoctrination of all of us in a society where the hierarchy has a vested interest in keeping us from embracing self love
– giving from your overflow, and how that can help you steer clear of burnout
– that choosing to spread radical self love feeds itself, and creates room for more radical self-love
Resources
Sonya Renee Taylor’s Website
The Body is Not an Apology Website
Support The Body is Not an Apology by making a contribution
Sonya Renee Taylor on Unlocking Us with Brene Brown
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
for mindbodygreen, and she has just released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this month’s theme of “finding home,” and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.
Read the full show notes on my website.
In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:
- How the idea of this book came about
- A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature.
- My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees.
- What a forest bath is, and how to experience one
- The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans
- How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming way
Resources
Emma Loewe’s book, “Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us” on Bookshop.org
Emma Loewe’s website
Emma Loewe on Instagram
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Fred LeBlanc is back for the third time on Jump Start Your Joy, and he’s joining me this time to talk about his new single, “Mardi Gras State of Mind” and his reflections on how things changed for him (and all of us) during the pandemic. In refreshing Fred style, we also dive into talking about the influences that shape people (including Elvis and Anne Rice), and how dreaming big can change the world.
Read the full show notes on my website.
In this episode, Fred LeBlanc and I talk about:
- His time during the pandemic: getting married, shelter in place, doing online concerts, and revisiting music
- Playing Lundy Gras and the Jazz Festival
- Tupolo Mississippi, the birth place of Elvis, and how our environments have a profound impact on our lives.
- Anne Rice, and how she was a friend of Cowboy Mouth
- The inspiration for Mardi Gras State of Mind
- His excitement about touring again.
- Their San Diego, CA concert.
Resources
Mardi Gras State of Mind by Cowboy Mouth
The Things You Wanted to Do by Cowboy Mouth
The Secret of Life by Dr.Joseph Murphy
Cowboy Mouth’s Website
Fred LeBlanc’s Frist Two Interviews On Jump Start Your Joy
Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth on Learning to Create Your Own Joy From the Inside Out (Open Wide)
Energy, Joy, and Cowboy Mouth with guest Fred LeBlanc
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In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m so excited to welcome Heather Hall, a transformative Leadership Coach, strategic Executive Coach, and evocative Spiritual Director whom I met through CLCC. She’s also the author of Step Up and Stand Out: 20 Tips for Aspiring Introverted Leaders. Heather helps aspiring introverted leaders, and their managers, connect with their voices and values to bring their ideas and vision to life. I hope that you enjoy this episode about stepping up and standing out for introverts with Heather Hall.
In this episode, Heather and I discuss:
- What is an introvert, extrovert, and ambivert? What goes on inside the mind of an introvert?
- How discussions around “following your passions” puts pressure on introverts to prove themselves or go for something seemingly larger than life.
- The corporate world was created by extroverts for extroverts. So, how do you navigate leadership as an introvert?
- Why Heather wrote Step Up and Stand Out and the lessons she’s learned throughout her corporate career.
- How workplace boundaries can improve your quality of life, your relationships with co-workers, and even prevent burnout.
- The power of saying “tell me more” before accepting opportunities or new commitments.
- Tips and advice for transitioning from a specialist role to a leadership-focused management role.
- How introverts give away their power at work and how to fully own your introverted skillset without people-pleasing or perfectionism.
- Networking, collaborating, and creating effective partnerships with extroverts.
- How to cultivate more joy in life.
Resources:
Heather Hall’s website: Discover with Heather
Step Up and Stand Out: 20 Tips for Aspiring Introverted Leaders by Heather Hall
Connect with Heather on LinkedIn
ClaimPodParity List and Website
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10 Things That Will Inspire More Passion and Joy in Your Work and Life 1. Introspection - Using the tools above, or working with a coach, a mentor, or a journal can provide a lot of insight for you. It's also important that you take time to heal any sort of past trauma or issues that might be making it hard for you to define or get in touch with your passions. 2. Just start moving and working on things. Lots of times people think that they need to have everything all figured out before they can take the first step. Instead, think of the first logical step and give it a try. 3. Let your passion stand on it's own. If you're interested in something, give it a try. Sometimes, instead of taking a first step, you may think that you need to have a plan to monetize a hobby, or have an end goal in mind for why you'd begin working on it. Passion and creativity are often most joyful when they are done for the sake of being fun and playful. You don't need an end "result" on the horizon to begin. 4. It's OK to make bold moves. You often learn the most when you try something that is out of your comfort zone. Many people worry that they will "fail" when they try something they haven't done before. What if you removed that idea from the equation, and decided that there was no such thing as failure when it comes to following your passion? 5. It's OK to "go back" to something if your first try doesn't work the way you'd planned. If you are working on building a business, and it doesn't work the way you'd envisioned the first time, it's OK to go back to work that supports you and your family. There's no shame, and nothing lost in continuing your quest as a side hustle, or starting over with a new focus. 6. Notice if you've had "enough." You might discover that something that once brought you joy no longer does. Or, you might realize that you've had enough at a job that isn't serving you, or that you're no longer interested in continuing a hobby or a business that you once enjoyed. This is natural and part of being human. 7. Look for the pivot points. I also call this being "well planned and loosely held," but notice when you see something shifting before your eyes in your plans. Often times, as you begin to build something your focus changes. You can also shift your business or your hobby or your interests to match those changes. 8. Follow what feels right. If you've grown tired of doing something, stop. If something else feels interesting or bring you joy, do that. Resist staying with something just because you "should." 9. The universe will give you opportunities to show you that you can do it. As you begin to grow your hobby or your passion or business, you'll see that the universe will show you that you're very capable of doing something. Looking back, you'll be able to see that you overcame challenges to get to where you are. Stop to celebrate those wins. You grow and change as your interests do, and it's always good to notice that you did something you once thought might be impossible. 10. You'll get more of something when you're ready. This may have to do with manifesting, or with growth. You'll see that once you've got a grasp of how to do something, you'll often be faced with opportunities that allow you to grow. Be intentional about the growth. You might find that old versions of what you thought you wanted resurface. It's OK to say no to things that don't fit you, anymore
Resources
Brene Brown’s “Living Our Values” Exercise
ClaimPodParity List and Website
Jen Edds of Brassy Broadcasting Company (she created the #ClaimPodParity song)
Heather Hall, Coach for Introverts
Interview with Lauren Artress about Labyrinth
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In this interview, I'm excited to be joined by Scott Leftwich. Scott originally started collecting console video games, and then began collecting early arcade games. He now owns 125 video games, and has the largest privately held collection of video games on the East Coast. Once a month, he opens the arcade for "Wieners and Losers," where people can play games for three hours and enjoy hot dogs and other food. He also has a band named Scott Leftwich and The Atarians, and in 2021 he opened an 80s themed Airbnb in his home. I hope you enjoy this conversation celebrating the 80s!
Read the full show notes on my website.
In this episode, Scott Leftwich and I talk about:
- the 1980s, and how as kids we had so much fun
- his love of early 1980s arcade games (1984 and earlier)
- how his collection of early 1980s arcade games grew, and how he learned to work on them
- Wieners and Losers, his monthly arcade event
- that he has 9 games of which there are 10 or less remaining in the world
- his band, Scott Leftwich and the Atarians
- the inspiration for his 80s themed Airbnb that opened in 2021
- the joy that the arcade brings the community
Resources
Long Live the 80s! Wieners and Losers Website (find out more about the arcade)
Scott Leftwich and The Atarians
Scott's 1980s themed Airbnb in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Scott and Wieners and Losers on The Daily Woo
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In this, interview, I'm really excited to be joined by Dr. Barbara de Latorre of Third Opinion MD. She is an amazing doctor who leverages her knowledge of Eastern and Western medicine in a brand new way to help people get in touch with their intuition and navigate the healthcare system, using their own Third Opinion.
In this episode, Dr. Barbara de la Torre and I discuss:
- How she created Third Opinion MD after being in corporate medicine for many years.
- The strain that the pandemic put on the medical system, and how it revealed issues that had been present for a long time.
- The impact of collectively from small practices to managed practices on health care.
- The definition of medical qigong and how it fits in to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- The role her mother played in her journey as a doctor.
- A transformative quote from her teacher, Master Liu He.
- How you can become your own best doctor.
- Cancel culture and how as a culture we've become focused on the extremes of yin and yang, and how to balance it.
- The shift to balance in the healthcare system.
Resources
Dr. Barbara de la Torre's Website: Third Opinion MD
Dr. Barbara de la Torre's Podcast: Third Opinion MD Podcast
Schedule a consult with Barbara
Episodes with Dr. Shelly Smith-Acuna on Third Opinion MD: Part One and Part Two
William J Peters on JSYJ
Lauren Artress on JSYJ
Matthew Wood on JSYJ
Fashion by Mayhem on Instagram
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In this episode, I'm honored to be interviewing Lauren Artress. She is an author, Canon of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, founder of Veriditas, and a spiritual pioneer and a leading force in popularizing the Labyrinth in the US and around the world. I have been fascinated with Labyrinths for years, and this last December became a trained Labyrinth facilitator. I'm excited to have Lauren joining me to talk about her experience with the Labyrinth, The Labyrinth Movement, and how it offers parallels and insights into our lives. In this episode, Lauren and I talk about:
- the labyrinth and what it is
- her journey in finding the labyrinth in Cathedral de Chartres, France
- the role of the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral, San Francisco - both now, and during the AIDS epidemic
- the Holy Fool and how it relates to the Labyrinth
- Hand labyrinths: how they work and how they came about
- The parallels and metaphors of our lives and the walk of the labyrinth
Resources
Lauren Artress' Website
Veriditas Website
World Labyrinth Locator
Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ
Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube
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Liminal space is defined as the transitional space that can be physical, metaphorical, spiritual, or emotional. Pulling from examples in Disneyland, Proper People, & Station Eleven I'm looking at how we navigate through liminal space when we encounter it.
In this episode, I'm discussing:
-
the definition of liminal space
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the four types of liminal space: physical, emotional, metaphorical, and spiritual
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examples of liminal space in every day life
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intentional liminal space and happenstance liminal space, and how they are different
-
5 ways to work with liminal space when you encounter it in your life
Resources
Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ
What is Liminal Space on "A Liminal Space"
The Impact of Liminal Space on Mental Health on Very Well Mind
The Proper People on YouTube
Liminal Space at Disney Parks by Offhand Disney
Station Eleven on HBO Max
Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube
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Marion Abrams of Grounded Content joins the show and we're talking all things content creation, with a special lens around pocasts.
I know so many of you that listen, have some sort of entrepreneurial pursuit where you are creating content week over week or on a regular basis. And some of those past episodes about content creation and creativity have been the most downloaded here on JSYJ.
Good content all comes back to purpose. What is your mission and why are you creating this thing? This applies to whatever it is that you are making if you are an entrepreneur, whether that be social media, videos, blog posts or written work, etc. It all comes down to your filter and purpose, and offering up something that other people want to engage with.
What is a podcast? Is it the same as a video on YouTube? Is it another word for interview?
How do you approach editing a podcast or other content? What do you need to know about crafting something for an audience?
What about publishing options? (specific to podcasting - where do you publish, why you need a podcast host and more)
And, how do you grow your podcast or following? What are the best methods?
Be sure and check out part one of this episode over on Grounded Content.
Resources
Read the full episode notes on my site.
Join me for a Quarterly Podcast Planning Session on February 4th, or sign up for a mini VIP day to launch or optimize your show.
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I am interviewing William J. Peters. He is the founder of the Shared Crossing Project and the director of its research initiative. He is the author of the new book, "At Heaven's Door: What Shared Journeys to the Afterlife Teach about Dying Well and Living Better." Recognized as a global leader in the field of shared death studies, he has spent decades studying end of life experiences. He is a practicing grief and bereavement therapist, and he holds degrees from Harvard and UC Berkeley. In this interview, we are talking about understanding shared death experiences.
Read the show notes on my website.
In this episode, William J. Peters and I discuss
- the definition of The Shared Death Experience
- Near Death Experiences
- An NDE (near death experience) that occured to William in his teenage years
- His new book, "At Heaven's Door"
- The research he has done on death, dying, and shared death experiences
- My own personal story of a shared death experience
- The work he does with the Shared Crossing Project
- How understanding death, dying, and shared death experiences can allow more comfort in your life
- The three ways he jump starts joy in his life: be kind to yourself, do what you love in life, helping other people
Resources
At Heaven's Door (the book) by William J. Peters
The Shared Crossing Project
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I'm delighted to have guest Tami Hackbarth back for a second interview on Jump Start Your Joy. Tami is the host of a hundred percent guilt-free self-care podcast, and she runs a very successful coaching business where she works with women to help them define and follow up with self care. In this conversation, we're talking about taking the best care of yourself by addressing "deferred maintenance."
In this episode, Tami and I talk about:
- how to approach deferred maintenance.
- what happens when you leave things unattended in your life, and how they can cause problems when they are not addressed. These can include getting the right amount of sleep, or getting basic checkups for your health.
- that taking care of the basics honors our future senior citizen selves, as it allows us to remain healthy and independent as we age.
- how our bodies change as we enter our 30s and beyond, and how it's important to intentionally make time and space for our own daily care
- the decline in muscle mass that all women experience after age 30
- what's brought us joy in the last year: unexpected laughing, spending time outside, and swimming. I share that I have been enjoying Cobra Kai and Ted Lasso.
Resources
Tami's Deferred Maintenance program (sign up here)
Tami Hackbarth’s website
100% Guilt Free Self Care Podcast on Apple Podcasts
Tami on Instagram
Tami's first interview on JSYJ
Subscribe to JSYJ on YouTube
Signe Myers Hovem is a spiritual counselor, an energy worker, and the author of The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide. In this interview on Jump Start Your Joy podcast, we are talking about empaths and highly sensitive people (HSPs).
If you are a highly sensitive person, or if you have a sense that you may be an empath, then I think you're going to get a lot out of this conversation (which ties so closely to this season's theme of intentional comfort on the podcast). HSPs and empaths notice the energy around people and places and things, and this can be overwhelming to them. The Empath's Field Guide, and this conversation, offers a lot of insight on how to manage your energy, hold space, and work with your gifts.
In this episode, Signe Myers Hovem talk about:
- What it means to be a functional empath.
- The difference between empathy versus being an empath.
- Exploring what it means to identify as a highly sensitive person.
- The power of our words and what we choose to call things.
- Minding your energy, and holding space without having your own energy drained.
- How to set up strong boundaries with people, places, or things if you feel an energetic drain and decide if you want to get involved further.
- How do we navigate through the space of being an empath or an HSP in everyday life?
Resources
Signe Myers Hovem's website
The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide by Signe Myers Hovem
Sign up for the January 14, 2022 Podcaster meetup (online) and Ask Me Anything
Sign up for the January 21, 2022 Podcasting Quarterly Content Planning Session
I truly enjoyed getting to speak with Jonni, and felt myself sinking into the conversation in a deep way. One of the most inspirational parts of the discussion for me was when we walked through the Four Golden Insights, which are the pillars for the work Jonni does.
- Life is Sacred
- Love is our Nature – we serve, nature, and find connection
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Wisdom is our Power – Jonni talks about finding the intelligence of love, and reconciling the appearance of resistance and opposites.
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We also talked about “embodied leadership power, which equals the ability to influence the environment around us.”
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Wisdom can enliven and awaken the truth of who we are
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Fulfillment is our Purpose – we find our purpose by fully understanding who we are
Resources
Jonni Pollard’s website
The Golden Sequence by Jonni Pollard on Amazon
Jonni Pollard and I talk about:
- His earliest sparks of joy as a child – playing with other kids, playing games, and any kind of games where he could evolve and find excitement
- Being a multipassionate, where he reflected that he felt that the many different things he enjoys in his life are all just different ways that his soul and purpose is revealing itself
- The filters that we use from the outside looking in, and how it changes the way we see ourselves
- The desire of creative beings to become expressive
- Our conditioning as children and the pervasive ideology that we learn as young people
- How adopting and conforming to social ideals causes immense suffering
- The four golden insights that set the pillars for the Golden Sequence
- What happens when energy does not flow naturally
- The dissonance that fear creates
- Why we need to connect to our purpose and our humanity
- Jonni’s thoughts How to Jump Start Your Joy: wake up and connect to the world around you, meditate for success and to affirm your humanity, and to show your best connected self to whomever you first have contact with in the morning
Intentional Comfort is the theme of this season, and in this episode I'm taking inspiration from Priya Parker's Art of Gathering, and using her 3 rules of gathering to consider new ways to reconnect with what nourishes, fortifies, and supports you. While her Ted Talk is about how to interact in groups and gatherings in new ways, I find that her rules and thoughts offer insights on how to connect with yourself, and how to determine what is meaningful to you when looking for intentional comfort.
Here are the basics of what I'm covering:
Don't leave it to chance
This is the intentional part of things. If we leave the relationship and connection we have to and with ourselves to chance, it's far too easy to focus on the basics and logistics of life, and ignore time for self care. If you're longing for more time for yourself, or time to do thoughtful, comforting things, schedule that time in.
Embrace your purpose
For many of you, especially over the stretch of the pandemic, you may have developed some habits that aren’t really serving you. And, while they likely did serve you for a period of time, now that we’re nearly into the third year of all of this, I think the way we look at comfort and what fortifies us has likely changed. It’s become super apparent that this isn’t about a sprint, this is about a transition. What is the purpose, or meaning, behind setting up time for intentional comfort?
How can you craft something that supports and nourishes you, as we all work through this transition together?
What is the purpose of what you want to do, in finding comfort?
What would meet your needs?
If you’re looking for an escape, what does that look like given any of your current constraints?
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, why?
And if you dig a layer deeper, is there something you feel is missing?
Cause good controversy
Priya says that “human connection is as threatened by unhealthy peace as it is by unhealthy conflict.” And, I’d add that this connection is true for gatherings as it is for the connection you and I have with ourselves.
For this, I’d ask yourself what do you need, right now? Drop any sort of “shoulds” or polite answers. You're answering this just for yourself.
Some of these answers might be overly simple: a walk, a shower, a drink of water, a meal
Some of these answers might be more complicated and feel harder to figure out: a feeling of connectedness, quiet time when I’m not needed by anyone else, a day to just bake cookies and connect with the holiday spirit
How can you do this? It might feel like it involves creating some good controversy, especially if it involves speaking up to divide up housework with your family, to find quiet time, to find time to pursue a hobby, or to interview for a new job. You may need help from other people to do these things. So, dive in and ask yourself what you need and then figure out what kind of help you need from other people in your family.
The other side of this good controversy could be a totally inside job. It could be that you’ve been sitting with something for a long time that doesn’t feel so great, and in order to find comfort and joy on the other side, you need to work through it. You may need to break through a Story - or something you’re assuming is true but isn’t really true.
Use "pop up" rules
Priya suggests this for groups that gather that don’t necessarily share the same background, or are part of the same generation, culture, or rules for etiquette. She says in those situations, you can set up pop up rules to encourage meaningful connection.
What if you changed your own rules for a bit? What rules could you set for yourself, just for a day or a week, to support yourself?
An example might be: set a bedtime for yourself for the next week if you are tired.
Make a rule for yourself that this week, you will slow down and have an afternoon snack and see how that feels.
Limit your interaction with people who stress you out, if possible.
Maybe if there’s a particular person that tends to upset you but you know you’ll see at a holiday event, maybe set a rule that you can leave after a certain amount of time at the event, or request that you not be seated next to them?
This might mean that you’re asking for something slightly different of yourself and other people - and that could be uncomfortable. So, let it be an experiment. Try out what something new looks like.
Wrap up
These ideas are all so applicable to how we can find intentional comfort and joy in our lives. It’s so easy to get into habits that don’t really support you, but have addressed discomfort you may have been feeling. Intentional Comfort is all adding a layer of mindfulness to what you do every day. I have been looking for ways to intentionally add nurturing and nourishing habits to my days, and find that when I make those choices, I do find more joy, too.
Resources
Priya Parker's Ted Talk
Stasia Savasuk on Jump Start Your Joy (episode 303)
The Joy Diet by Martha Beck
The Work of Byron Katie
Loving What is by Byron Katie
Stasia Savasuk is an amazing style coach, and the super power behind Stasia's Style School, The REVEL-You-Tion, and Wear Our Word. She helps women find "inside out congruency," which is all about how you can do the inner work to define your values, and match those in the clothes that you choose to wear. I've thoroughly enjoyed her leadership over the last year, and her program encourages beautiful, authentic growth that has people shining from the inside out.
In this episode, Stasia and I talk about:
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Bell Hooks' book, "All About Love"
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Self-regulation, and how to regulate when you feel triggered
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How Stasia chooses themes for her REVEL-You-tion program
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Inside-out congruency: Who are you on the inside, and how can you reflect that on the outside?
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Becoming happy with yourself now, just as you are
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The BS of the standard cultural beliefs around what is beautiful
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Why community is important in making change
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Why self acceptance is so important and how it is life changing
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Why New Years Resolutions don't work, and how they are just part of the problem
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Wear Our Word workshop
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Her top ways to jump start your joy: get outside
Resources
Stasia's Wear Our Word workshop waitlist (click here)
Stasia Savasuk's website
Stasia Savasuk on Instagram
Stasia Savasuk on JSYJ, from Season 4: Dressing for Joy and Confidence
Stasia's TedX Talk
"All About Love" by Bell Hooks
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
I am delighted to be joined for a second time by Marsha Flowers, who is the owner of Five B and Co Candles, and the newly launched Little Bee Scents. In our conversation, she shares how she has listened to her heart to expand her business in new ways. After thinking about what she likes best about candle making (the creativity, creating scents, and community), she realized that she also wanted to help other candle makers (and soap makers too!) bring their dreams to life. In the spirit of mentoring and helping others in the field she loves so much, Little Bee Scents was born.
In this episode, Marsha and I talk about:
- The launch of Little Bee Scents and becoming the candlemaker for Boulevard Brewing Company in Kansas City.
- How she is helping people get creative and produce quality products by offering custom scents for them to use in their own business, without having to buy a large minimum order
- Why Marsha wanted to change things up in her business
- The process of crafting scents that match the smell of beer, hay, and the fresh smell of the earth after the rain
- Why candles offer comfort to people and connect us to memories in a powerful way
- How Marsha let her heart lead her to the place that made her feel good about her business
- Mad, glad, sad, or ewwww: Marsha’s new way of identifying her emotion over things, and following her first impulse about them.
- How to jump start your joy: through smiling and helping other people create things that they love
Resources
Marsha Flower's candle website: Five Blessings Candles
Marsha Flower's scent website: Little Bee Scents
5BandCo on Instagram
Marsha Flowers on JSYJ: Creating “Happiness in The Form of a Flicker”
Jacqualyn Jackson is the small business owner behind Investment Inspectors, LLC, who provides home inspections, home healings, and sound baths. Jacqualyn has embraced her multi-passionate personality by leaning into several of the things she loves to do: offering objective findings for people buying or selling a home, and in nourishing the more spiritual side of things in providing home healings and sound baths. I’m delighted to share how she’s woven these unique offerings into a single business that integrates with her personal values.
Between 11/26/21 and 12/06/21, Jacqualyn is offering a sale on all Home Healing Services (including Sound Baths!) for virtual services in 2022.
In this episode, Jacqualyn and I talk about:
- Jacqualyn’s early passions and why dance sparked joy in her as a child
- What led her to home inspections as a career and why she became so fascinated by the art of spiritual energy protection for homes
- How Jacqualyn clears negative energy from a home
- What people may notice if they have bad vibes in a house and what can they do if they feel like it's energetically not right for them
- Jacqualyn shares her interest in sound baths, what they are and how they work to help you ground yourself
- The biggest problems that Jacqualyn sees with maintenance when she is inspecting a home
- Ways that people can create intentional comfort and peace for themselves, either in their home or for themself as an individual
- Jacqualyn’s commitment to self-care as an essential aspect of her brand values and how she has set up her business to support her own and her clients’ comfort and joy
- How to connect with Jacqualyn to hear more about home healing or home inspection
- The three ways Jacqualyn jumpstarts joy in her life, the world, and in other people's lives — including listening to others, expressing love and gratitude, and shining your light in the world
Resources
Investment Inspectors LLC
Investment Inspectors LLC on Instagram
Email Jacqualyn at jacqualyn@investmentinspectorsllc.com
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
It's episode 300!! I'm sharing my top 3 reflections of having a podcast (and a business) over the past 7 years. Hear stories about staying inspired, how to remain consistent, why just starting is the hardest, and all about the magic of trying new things. Thank you to YOU for tuning in, for sharing JSYJ with others, and for bringing joy into the world. I am sending you love, and wishes for comfort and joy.
Over the past 300 episodes, I've had some learnings and find myself reflecting on them. Here's what I know to be true:
- Just start.
Whatever it is that you're longing to do, take that first baby step. The first step is always the hardest, and it's often the thing that keeps us from moving towards our purpose and our dreams. Recognize that it's likely fear that's holding you back, and that fear just wants to keep you safe. That doesn't always serve you, or your dreams.
And, if you're already doing "the thing," you might find yourself dragging your feet to take future steps. Sometimes I dread editing my own show, but once I sit down, open the editing software, and get starting I love it, just like I always do. Procrastination is a dream killer. Get your momentum going by just starting.
- Consistency.
Consistency is about more than posting on a regular schedule. It's about the timing, about what you share, about the core of your message, it's about alignment between yourself and your business. It's also about showing up for yourself, and for your audience (or your customer, because consistency plays a role in product based businesses too), so they know when and where to find you.
When I started I took the advice of Pat Flynn about remaining consistent with my podcast. In this episode, I also share a story about meeting Lewis Howes, and how that impacted my first year of podcasting.
Consistency becomes easier when you're aligned across the board with what you love, what you do, what you talk about, and what feels right for your and your business or show.
- Try New Things (or, living out "Well Planned, Loosely Held")
When I started my show, and made the commitment to try it out for a whole year before making a decision on if I wanted to continue, my fried Christine Petty asked me the beautiful question of "imagine what is possible when you say yes to something for a year?" Her words have continued to inspire me, as they speak to the never ending possibilities that are out there when you say yes to your dreams.
"Going off script" is another part of trying new things, and something that Andrea Scher shared about in episode 299. In her brand new book, "Wonder Seeker," Andrea talks about the idea of trying something brand new, and out of the ordinary and seeing what happens.
In playing with my format for this show over the past 7 years, I have literally learned to go off script. I started with writing every solo episode out in its entirety. I no longer do this.
In your show, or your blog, business, or life - find ways to keep things fresh. You can always keep with the core idea, and try on new "seasons," which offer a different way to look at a topic you've stuck with for a long time.
Thank you all for tuning in! I have such deep appreciation for you, and wish you so much love, comfort, and joy.
Resources:
Pat Flynn's Smart Passive Income
Lewis Howes' School of Greatness Podcast
Matthew Wood on Jump Start Your Joy
Amy Bernhardt of Mimi's Little Loveys on Jump Start Your Joy
The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck
The Desire Map by Danielle LaPorte
Free Her Spirit Podcast by Christine Petty
Andrea Scher on Jump Start Your Joy
Wonder Seeker by Andrea Scher
Andrea Scher has thrilled and inspired others for nearly twenty years through her award-winning blog Superhero Journal, her international workshops, her Creative Superheroes podcast, and her joyful e-courses. In this episode, we discuss Andrea’s new book, Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today, and how and she describes why this is the perfect time to tune into the small things that bring you joy.
Read the full show notes on my website. Click here.
In this episode, Andrea and I talk about:
- Why Andrea was inspired to write her book to inspire others to add more wonder and magic to their lives
- What a Wonder Seeker actually is and how wonder relates to joy
- Becoming braver and more resilient as you pivot your attention towards wonder and joy
- How Wonder Seekers create comfort by being open-hearted and cultivating a spirit of kindness and love
- Some of the exercises in Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today and why 144 is her personal favorite
- How Andrea sets intentions and the magic the practice can bring
- How to move past the rigid routines of the last 18 months and embrace the magic and wonder your world has to offer
- Andrea’s e-courses, retreats, and creative workshops, and how to find out more about her
- Three ways Andrea recommends to jump-start joy in your life, in the world, or other people’s lives?
Resources
Preorder Andrea Scher's book: Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake Up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy
Get your free gift from Andrea after purchasing Wonder Seeker here
Andrea Scher's Superhero Life
Andrea Scher on Instagram
Other books and resources we mention in this episode
The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Wisdom, and Love: Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson
Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence by Rick Hanson
Camera Obscura in San Francisco
Amy started Mimi’s Little Loveys after disability and chronic illness forced her to stop teaching and working with young children. She followed her heart and her own curiosity to create a business that honors her values, and allows her to take care of herself. Amy joins the show to talk about how she's found intentional comfort, and built a life that supports her, and allows her to do the things she loves.
In this episode, Amy and I talk about:
- The single thing that Amy brought with her after her marriage broke down and how it became the key to her new life
- What brought Amy sparks of joy growing up in a large family
- Amy shares how she came up with the business name and who her little loveys are
- We reflect on why it’s often a more extended and quieter journey to finding our own comfort and joy and why it’s vital to understand the importance of taking care of ourselves
- How getting involved with the community during in-person events made Amy feel like part of another type of supportive family
- The shifts Amy and Dan have had to make in their business since the COVID-19 pandemic hit
- Amy’s advice for artisan business owners on how to get their products into the hands of potential customers
- The range of products that Mimi’s Little Loveys offers — including sweet winter themes, holiday bibs, and napkins — and how to find them online
- Three ways that Amy jumpstarts the joy in her life, in the world, and other people's lives
Resources
Mimi’s Little Loveys
Mimi’s Little Loveys on Instagram
Mimi’s Little Loveys on Facebook
uy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
What is Intentional Comfort? Why is it important? I'm sharing 3 conversations that paved the way for comfort to be the season 7 theme. Tune in to hear from Jenn Oglesbee, Ilene Smith, and Julia Samuels and learn more about what intentional comfort.
In this episode, I'm taking a look at some of the foundational conversations that paved the way for me to choose a theme of intentional comfort and joy for season seven here on the podcast.
-
One was with Jenn Oglesbee, who is a life coach and a licensed clinical social worker. We had three conversations on Instagram Live over the summer (which you can find at my Instagram account: conversation 1, conversation 2, conversation 3).
-
Ilene Smith, the author of Moving Beyond Trauma who shared that the last 18 months have been a trauma vortex in a discussion we had in season 5.
Listen to the full discussion with Ilene Smith here.
- Julia Samuel, who is a psychotherapist who specializes in grief and wrote the book, Grief Works. She and I spoke about the importance of balancing grief with intentional times of happiness or joy.
Listen to that conversation here.
I wanted to synthesize some of these ideas so that you get this kind of juicy background of how we got to intentional comfort and joy for season seven (and give you a little bit more space to play with the theme).
Resources
Jenn Oglesbee's website
Ilene's Smith website
Julia Samuel's website
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
What is Intentional Comfort? Why is it important? I'm sharing 3 conversations that paved the way for comfort to be the season 7 theme. Tune in to hear from Jenn Oglesbee, Ilene Smith, and Julia Samuels and learn more about what intentional comfort.
In this episode, I'm taking a look at some of the foundational conversations that paved the way for me to choose a theme of intentional comfort and joy for season seven here on the podcast.
-
One was with Jenn Oglesbee, who is a life coach and a licensed clinical social worker. We had three conversations on Instagram Live over the summer (which you can find at my Instagram account: conversation 1, conversation 2, conversation 3).
-
Ilene Smith, the author of Moving Beyond Trauma who shared that the last 18 months have been a trauma vortex in a discussion we had in season 5.
Listen to the full discussion with Ilene Smith here.
- Julia Samuel, who is a psychotherapist who specializes in grief and wrote the book, Grief Works. She and I spoke about the importance of balancing grief with intentional times of happiness or joy.
Listen to that conversation here.
I wanted to synthesize some of these ideas so that you get this kind of juicy background of how we got to intentional comfort and joy for season seven (and give you a little bit more space to play with the theme).
Resources
Jenn Oglesbee's website
Ilene's Smith website
Julia Samuel's website
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
What is Intentional Comfort? Why is it important? I'm sharing 3 conversations that paved the way for comfort to be the season 7 theme. Tune in to hear from Jenn Oglesbee, Ilene Smith, and Julia Samuels and learn more about what intentional comfort.
In this episode, I'm taking a look at some of the foundational conversations that paved the way for me to choose a theme of intentional comfort and joy for season seven here on the podcast.
-
One was with Jenn Oglesbee, who is a life coach and a licensed clinical social worker. We had three conversations on Instagram Live over the summer (which you can find at my Instagram account: conversation 1, conversation 2, conversation 3).
-
Ilene Smith, the author of Moving Beyond Trauma who shared that the last 18 months have been a trauma vortex in a discussion we had in season 5.
Listen to the full discussion with Ilene Smith here.
- Julia Samuel, who is a psychotherapist who specializes in grief and wrote the book, Grief Works. She and I spoke about the importance of balancing grief with intentional times of happiness or joy.
Listen to that conversation here.
I wanted to synthesize some of these ideas so that you get this kind of juicy background of how we got to intentional comfort and joy for season seven (and give you a little bit more space to play with the theme).
Resources
Jenn Oglesbee's website
Ilene's Smith website
Julia Samuel's website
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
Pamela Seelig began her yoga journey more than 25 years ago when an illness (Bell's Palsy) interrupted her Wall Street career. As part of her recovery from that diagnosis, she she began meditating and it brought her some amazing results. Not only did it speed up her recovery, but the impact of meditating at during that time in her life led to a lifelong pursuit of sharing yoga wisdom with others. In this interview, she joins me to talk about Stress Relief, Meditation and "Threads of Yoga," her new book.
What that means for you is whether or not you are currently practicing yoga, there will be something for you to glean from this conversation.
We talk about:
- The importance of breath and breathing to calm down
- Calming your nervous system.
- Meditation and the various kinds of meditation that can help you deal with every day stress
- Santosha, which means contentment or gratitude in Sanskrit
- Breath practices to try right now, or anytime you need to re-center
- Her new book
I feel like this weaves in so beautifully with the theme for season seven, which is all about intentional comfort and joy.
Resources
Threads of Yoga: Themes, Reflections, and Meditations to Weave Into Your Practice by Pamela Seelig (on Bookshop.org)
PamelaSeelig.com
Centering Prayer Meditation by Paula Jenkins on Insight Timer (free)
Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle
Comfort and Joy is the new theme for Season 7 and I'm thrilled to sharing all about "intentional comfort." After spending time in the messy middle, over the last 18 months our nervous system needs a pause and a reset and some intentional comfort. So that's what we're looking at in this episode.
Here's what you'll find:
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Intentional Comfort: It's the mindful activity of embracing comfort, and finding down time for yourself. It's important because we're all been in a "trauma vortex" since early 2020. (hat tip Ilene Smith)
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What's the messy middle? (it's this weird undefined time we've been in, where we don't fully know when this pandemic will end, and know that we can't get back to where we were.)
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It's time drop the idea that we should embrace "courage over comfort" or "living your big bold life" without balance of intentional comfort.
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Introverts and highly sensitive people need to slow down and embrace comfort to be in a good place in their lives.
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That we need comfort for comfort's sake. We need to rest for the sake of resting and wellness. (And not so that we can go do anything else. Just because.)
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Finding intentional comforts, and the difference between comfort and numbing out. Comfort is affirming, nurturing and is taking care of oneself. Numbing out is doing something to an extreme, and losing oneself in the activity. Comfort is making space for life. Numbing out is usually an activity that takes over one's life.
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Inspiration for the idea of Intentional Comfort:
Tami Hackbarth of 100% Guilt Free Self Care Podcast, and guest on Jump Start Your Joy
The Nap Ministry of Instagram
Jennifer L. Scott, author of the Madame Chic series of books. Also on YouTube.
Stasia Savasuk, Jump Start Your Joy guest and founder of Stasia's Style School
Jackie of Super Enthused, on YouTube and Instagram
Sonya Renee Taylor, author of The Body is Not an Apology, leader, poet, activist, and guest on Jump Start Your Joy.
Buy Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle on Amazon (affiliate link)
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
Welcome to Jump Start Your Joy's Top 10 of Season One. As I round out the 6th Season of the podcast, I found myself wanting to take a look back at how the show started. Season One was magical, and memorable in so many ways.
You can read the full episode notes on my website.
Here's the sampling of who you'll hear in this episode:
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Kathleen Davies, from Episode 1. She is a preaching pastor in Houston Texas, and my former room mate at Yale Divinity School.
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Matthew Wood, Senior Sound Editor at Skywalker Sound and the voice of General Grievous in the Star Wars universe. Matt and I attended grade school together, and he shares how George Lucas chose him for the General Grievous role. He was on Episode 3.
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Molly Larkin, a life coach, and registered nurse. We discussed Loving Kindness in Episode 10.
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Liz Ross, advertising agency veteran and past president of Periscope agency in Minneapolis. We talked about leadership and putting people first in Episode 21.
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Lexi Koch, a life coach and farmer. We talked about the courage it takes to be vulnerable in life. She was on Episode 35.
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Holly Becker is the powerhouse behind the blog Decor8, and founder of "Blogging Your Way." She came on to talk about how to find your voice, and joined me Episode 36.
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Jennifer Lee is the author of "Right Brain Business Plan," and a great business coach. She was on Episode 38 and we talked about how to build a sustainable creative business.
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Sharon Aldeguer is a body builder and an IT professional. She had a brain tumor removed, and suffered nerve damage during the surgery. She joined me to talk about hope in Episode 45.
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Flylady Marla Cilley has a successful website and helps people reign in the chaos of their homes. She joined me for Episode 46, and we talked about how habits and routines can help you find more joy in life.
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Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block, and founder of Remember Betty was my guest on Episode 20. He had released a new album "Look at Me," which benefitted his nonprofit which supports breast cancer patients. He shared about losing his mother, Betty, to breast cancer and his family, and the fans.
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Stasia Savasuk is an amazing style coach, has an outstanding Tedx Talk, and is the founder of Stasia’s Style School. She’s joining me on the show, and I’m delighted to share this interview. We giggled our way through our discussion, and had a hilarious time talking about style, what lights us up, how to find what kinds of styles fit YOU, and, all about Stasia’s inspiring story of becoming an entrepreneur.
In this episode, Stasia and I talk about:
- Her early entrepreneurial work as a child, collecting and selling worms
- How she broke up with style, and wore very bland clothing for many years
- That one size fits all is bullshit
- How to discover style that works for you and reflects who you really are
- How to get in touch with who you really are
- What it looks like to belong to yourself
- How her differently abled child has taught her so much about inside out congruency
- Her thoughts on how to jumpstart your joy: asking yourself how you want to show up, don’t participate in body shaming, and getting outside
Resources
Stasia Savasuk’s website
Stasia on Instagram
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
Andrea and I are talking about the many ways that you can make some noise, own your strengths, and speak your mind. It’s a big topic, and it could not come at a better time. At the heart of making noise is first getting comfortable with accepting the unique things that make you great. I know that many times, it feels more comfortable to play down your strengths because maybe somewhere back in your childhood or formative years you were told that you shouldn’t bring too much attention to yourself, or “brag” about what you are good at.
The thing is, that’s all a bunch of BS. Each person on this planet has a very unique set of talents and gifts, and it’s your job to uncover them and share them with others. When you get stuck in the messaging that you need to hide your talent or play down what you do best, it means that you are not owning all of who you are. And it means that you are playing into fear: the fear that you’re not enough and the fear of outshining others. The truth is that no one wins when you hide your greatness, AND everyone wins when you do share your strengths and talents.
And that’s what Andrea has written about in this new book. How you can make some noise.
Here’s what else we talk about:
– how women and girls are conditioned to play down strengths and fit in, even to the point that we will hold ourselves back so we don’t outshine friends or colleagues
– why hiding your strengths doesn’t help you or anyone else
– understanding the role of intuition in stepping in to your greatness
– resilience
– the mindset of greatness
– internalized misogyny: why some women align themselves with a misoynistic point of view, and how it keeps women from stepping into their own greatness
– why we all need to make some noise, now, in the #metoo era
Read the full show notes on the website.
Resources:
Order Make Some Noise by Andrea Owen
Andrea Owen on How to Be Taken Seriously Even When You’re Not a Serious Person (on Jump Start Your Joy)
How to Stop Feeling Like Shit and Live a Kickass Life with guest Andrea Owen (on Jump Start Your Joy)
Andrea Owen’s Website
Andrea Owen on Instagram
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts
Follow Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify
John McEuen reached out to share 2 new songs with us, and I'm releasing "Hey Joe" with the Oak Ridge Boys, and "Back in History" with John Russell in this episode as we listen to John talk about his book, the Life I've Picked.
I could not be more excited to share this week’s interview. John is one of the most celebrated and best known banjo players in the world, and has had a long and exciting career in music. It was amazing to get to speak with him about his book, “The Life I’ve Picked,” his early days at the magic shop in Disneyland (where he became friends with Steve Martin), and about being the first American musical group to tour Russia in 1977.
I also loved getting to hear about John’s creative process, and how much he delights in creating music to share with others. You can hear the joy in his voice as he talks about his experiences. Plus, he talks about “bone records” which made to bootleg music into Russia in the 70s, and that is not something you are gonna hear on any other podcast today.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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Season 6 has been all about finding joy in the messy middle. In the season finale, I'm looking back and the 5 most memorable conversations I've had with guests over the last year. For each one, I'm sharing a bit about what stood out about our conversation, and, playing a bit of the episode so you can hear them explain things in their own words.
Dr. Jeff Speiss is the author of "Dying with Ease," and he joined me early on in the season. I love that he shared about what he's learned from working with people who are dying, and what we can all do to feel more joy while we are alive. He also talked how listening to someone in a difficult time is often the most profound gift you can give them. Tune in to our original full length conversation in episode 268.
Molly Knoderer and I went to high school together and played softball on the same team. She's a co-owner of Legacy Concierge Services, and an author. Her business works with finding care for the elderly, both in working with families and with aging people. I loved that she shared about overcoming obstacles and self doubt. And she also talked about some of the lessons she's learned about how to face hard times (like 9/11) from working with elderly clients. Listen to our whole conversation right here in episode 270.
Lan Cao, and her daughter, Harlan Margaret Van Cao wrote an amazing memoir together title "Family in Six Tones." As an immigrant from Vietnam during the Vietnam war, Lan Cao has interesting perspectives on belonging and family. She shared about how learning the syntax of English as a child gave her a framework for understanding complexities in life, and she talks about how that layered in to her understanding of her daughter as a high school student. You can listen to episode 274 by clicking here.
Erica Courdae is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant, and a life coach, and small business owner. She is also the host of Pause on the Play. I had the pleasure of meeting her in 2019 and was really inspired by her talk about "Imperfect Allyship" at She Podcasts. I loved having Erica come on to share what imperfect allyship looks like, and how we can all approach anti-racism in a way that leaves room for honest mistakes as individuals grapple with difficult topics in an earnest way. Listen to episode 283 here.
Sonya Renee Taylor is the author of "The Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love," and Radical Executive Officer of The Body is Not An Apology, a digital media and education company promoting radical self-love and body empowerment as the foundational tool for social justice and global transformation. It was a true joy to have her on the show, and I loved that she shared about how she defines radical self love. And, I was inspired hearing her talk about she only "gives from her overflow" in regards to activist work. You can listen to this whole delight-filled conversation here on episode 287.
Read the episode notes on the website
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A lot of people are talking about FOMO, especially as the US is opening back up after the pandemic. As everything and everyone starts to come out of quarantine and shelter in place, and we are feeling safer about being in public, it seems that a lot of people are feeling he push to rush back into life, and, rush back to returning to life at the same pace we'd all been keeping in the end of 2019 (if not faster). And, many people are layering this return to "normal" with an urgency to catch up for "lost" time, or, trying to cram in more during this time because we fear what's to come after losing so much over the past 16 months. Because 2020 was a total sh*tshow, it's reasonable to be cautious and concerned, but I think it's amping up our anxiety.
In this episode I'm sharing about how it's OK to slow down, and it's also totally OK to Opt Out during this transition time. Maybe you realized that you like a slower pace of life while you were in quarantine. Maybe you discovered you needed more quiet time for yourself. And now that invitations are going out about social gatherings, and people getting together you might feel like you "should" go (and not really want to).
I want to give you full permission to do a couple of things:
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Take stock in what you really want to do. If you're craving alone time, don't feel like you need to go to an event, or go do anything. Opting out is an option.
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Notice where you feel like things are "too much." We've all just been through a lot, and our brains and nervous systems have been on high alert for over a year. We've been living in a time where even basic tasks were not as safe as usual, and it will take time to re-acclimate. If it feels like you've done enough today as far as socializing or going out in public goes, let it be enough. Opting out of doing more, or doing anything, is an option.
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Resources
Effortless: Make It Easier to Do What Matters Most by Greg McKeown
There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called Languishing by Adam Grant in the NY Times
Make Some Noise by Andrea Owen
Get it Done: The Email Course by Alexandra Franzen
In this episode, I'm talking about the term "languishing," which is something that Adam Grant recently wrote about in the New York Times. His article was titled "There's a Name For The Blah That You're Feeling, and It's Called Languishing." When I read it, it struck me that languishing really is one of the predominant emotions that you find in the messy middle. It's languishing. Isn't full on depression. It's not boredom or anger. It's not any of those. It's just that vague feeling, that things aren't great.
Adam Grant describes it this way, "Languishing is a sense of stagnation and emptiness. It feels as if you're muddling through your days, looking at your life through a foggy windshield, and it might be the dominant emotion of 2021." And, in reading this I felt similar to the way I did when I read about people naming the feeling of grief that was a predominant emotion at the beginning of the pandemic. It has also given me something to call the annoyance and mild overwhelm I've felt recently, and that I even did a podcast episode about.
This low-level funk made me feel that I needed to try and do something, anything, to find my way out and into something else. And so I signed up with Tami Hackbarth's "Deferred Maintenance" program and I tackled just one thing.
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Resources:
Adam Grant's Article in the New York Times: "There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called Languishing"
Revenge Bedtime Procrastination
In this interview, I am so honored to be joined by author Sonya Renee Taylor. Sonya is the author of the the New York Times Bestselling book, “The Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love.” She just recently released an updated version of that book, and the “Your Body is Not an Apology Workbook: Tools for Living Radical Self Love.” Sonya is joining me to talk all about radical self-love and joy. And, she shares that when we start to love ourselves, we can transform how we interact with others in the world.
One of my favorite parts of our discussion sits at the heart of something that has bothered me about joy recently; the question of “how can I embrace joy if that joy possibly comes at the expense of someone else’s freedom, joy, or access to things?” In other words, where does my own privilege enable me to experience joy when others may not have that same access to it.
In talking about altruistic joy, Sonya and I talked about how this relates to her frame work of “interest buying” or “detriment buying” – in other words, there are things that we do or things that we consume that are in the better interest of all people (altruistic) and there are things that we consume or do that are at the detriment of others.
And here’s where it got really juicy. Sonya shared that she feels that true, altruistic joy is the kind of joy that has no residue. And, this is perhaps one of the most amazing reflections I’ve heard about joy in the 7 years I’ve been talking to guests about it. Here’s what she had to say about it:
“What it brings up for me is: joy doesn’t have a residue. There’s no residue on joy. It’s beautiful. If there’s a residue, that’s information for you. That’s information to say, “this might not actually be best interest. This might actually be detriment by it. There is something on it that is not about simply living into the most joyful, highest vibration of myself in the world. There is something that says, ‘I’m trying to clean up something. I’m trying to fix something. I’m trying to extract something externally because it’s coming from a place of lack or scarcity.'”
That’s what the residue piece is. And so I think if we can start noticing and getting present with the question of is there a residue after I do a thing? And then, how can I let that be an indicator of whether or not I’m actually in a joy practice. Am I in an interest / buying practice? Or am I in a detriment practice?”
Sonya Renee Taylor and I talked about:
– her early joys of creating radio shows with her friend
– slam poetry festivals, and how entering them fed her soul
– how “The Body is Not an Apology” got started
– how the Genesis story in the Judeo-Christian tradition relates to shame and body image
– how to tell if your joy is coming from an altruistic place, or if it may have residue on it
– embracing radical self love
– why radical self love is not easy work
– the indoctrination of all of us in a society where the hierarchy has a vested interest in keeping us from embracing self love
– giving from your overflow, and how that can help you steer clear of burnout
– that choosing to spread radical self love feeds itself, and creates room for more radical self-love
Resources
Sonya Renee Taylor’s Website
The Body is Not an Apology Website
Support The Body is Not an Apology by making a contribution
Sonya Renee Taylor on Unlocking Us with Brene Brown
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In this episode, I’m delighted to have Fred Waitzkin return for his second interview, this time to talk about his brand new book “Strange Love.” Fred is the author of “Searching for Bobby Fischer,” which is based on his experiences with his son Josh who was a chess prodigy at age 7. In this new interview, we talk about his latest book (Strange Love), his time during COVID in New York and Costa Rica, and what drew him to write a story based in Costa Rica, and his writing process.
What I love about this conversation is the way that Fred talks about his creative process. I find that creating a podcast weekly also takes a good deal of creativity, for my clients and for myself. It’s always interesting to me to learn how other creative people tap into creative flow. Fred uses real life to inspire the events of his book, and he talks about three key things as far as how he goes about writing.
In this conversation, Fred Waitzkin and I talk about:
– his new book, Strange Love, and how he crafted the characters
– his inspiration for writing, often taken from day to day life and people he knows
– Costa Rica and New York City during the COVID pandemic
– his creative process in writing
– how the pandemic has changed us as people
– the resurgence of interest in his book, Searching for Bobby Fischer, after the release of The Queen’s Gambit
Resources
Fred Waitzkin’s website
Strange Love by Fred Waitzkin
Searching for Bobby Fischer by Fred Waitzkin
Fred’s first interview on Jump Start Your Joy
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In this episode, I am sharing about a couple of parallel "paths" I've noticed in the past few months: those of Labyrinths, making mindful choices about what to do next, and setting boundaries to support those choices and new directions.
Your Unique Path
In December 2020 I took a week long course and became a trained labyrinth facilitator. The labyrinth has been around for centuries and is a helpful mindfulness tool, and a lovely walking meditation. It struck me that much like there are parallels between the center of a labyrinth and the messy middle of this pandemic.
Mindful choices on What's Next
This time in the messy middle has offered us a lot of time to think. I hear from other people that they are reflecting about what really matters, what things merit their time, what they really want to do when they can go back out in the world and do things with other people.
Boundaries
These two things (Labyrinths and honoring one's path) benefit from boundaries. A labyrinth without a clearly marked path is confusing, or, just a field. A life without boundaries is a free-for-all. So I want to mark things more mindfully, and make clear choices based on what I want and who I know I am. There is simplicity and beauty in knowing those things, and I want to honor them too.
For you:
What can you learn from your time in the Messy Middle of the pandemic?
Where has your path led you? Is it different than where you thought you'd go?
What kinds of boundaries could help define your path?
Resources
Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
Walking a Sacred Path by Lauren Artress
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In this episode, I'm honored to be interviewing Lauren Artress. She is an author, Canon of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, founder of Veriditas, and a spiritual pioneer and a leading force in popularizing the Labyrinth in the US and around the world. I have been fascinated with Labyrinths for years, and this last December became a trained Labyrinth facilitator. I'm excited to have Lauren joining me to talk about her experience with the Labyrinth, The Labyrinth Movement, and how it offers parallels and insights into our lives.
In this episode, Lauren and I talk about:
- the labyrinth and what it is
- her journey in finding the labyrinth in Cathedral de Chartres, France
- the role of the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral, San Francisco - both now, and during the AIDS epidemic
- the Holy Fool and how it relates to the Labyrinth
- Hand labyrinths: how they work and how they came about
- The parallels and metaphors of our lives and the walk of the labyrinth
Resources
Lauren Artress' Website
Veriditas Website
World Labyrinth Locator
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In this episode, Erica and are diving in to the important topics of racism in the US, and what it means to be an imperfect ally. I had the pleasure of meeting her at ShePodcasts Live, and I was deeply inspired by her presentation there on imperfect allyship and anti-racism.
Erica is an an entrepreneur and certified coach, and her work is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), imperfect allyship, and imposter syndrome. I deeply appreciate her insights on how white people, like myself, can be better allies for people of color. I know from experience that it can be vulnerable to make changes and that there's an underlying fear that we may do something (with good intentions) that is more harmful than helpful. And, that if it's not right, it could backfire. And so many of us freeze and do nothing.
The truth is, action is what is needed. We can't continue to do nothing because of our own discomfort. And, the only way to make any change is to start trying it out, in small steps, and in little ways.
And that's what the heart of imperfect allyship is all about.
If you've been feeling deeply unsettled by what you've felt over the many acts of racial injustice that have been happening, and you know you want to do something (but you don't know what or how) - this is the episode for you.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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Intuition can give you powerful information about what you want and what brings you joy, but too often we ignore it. What can you learn from intuition, and what can you discover from getting curious about what annoys you?
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It’s so exciting to have Heather Chauvin back for a second time on the podcast!
She has just released her brand new book, “Dying to be a Good Mother” and I was delighted that she reached out to connect again. Our interview is all about her journey with what she learned about self care after being diagnosed with cancer, and how 2020 has changed so much for so many of us. As a former social worker, and mom of three boys Heather was juggling family, health and happiness, and in doing so putting her own well being last on her priority list. And then, she was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just one year after the birth of her youngest son. That’s when she took a hard look own self care, and how to place a priority on her own health, happiness and wellbeing. In battling through chemo, illness, and recovery she realized it was time to start living, not just for her family but for herself.
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During the pandemic, it's been hard to find our joy. In this episode, I share how to change your perspective when the horizon shifts, and how to find joy in the messy middle. Also learn about how to craft an "easy week" to bring more joy to your life.
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Purchase my book, Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle
In this interview, I’m delighted to be joined by life coach Mackenzie Eason. She is a love and relationship coach who specializes in helping her clients break free from toxic dynamics, develop emotional mastery, clear up communication, reclaim their power, and cultivate unshakable self love. In other words, she’s the most amazing person to have on to talk about how we look at love, how we can learn to love ourselves, and how we can talk about Valentine’s Day in a very different way. In this episode we are talking all about how to love yourself first, and looking at how COVID and shelter in place has taken a toll on existing relationships.
Kenzie and I met through life coach training, and it’s a real treat to have her on the show. She fully embodies joy and love and she’s one of the most genuine and lovely people you’ll ever meet. I love that she’s dedicated her work to helping womxn through the breakups, and that she holds space for them to find transformation and joy on the other side of those hard times. I’m so excited to have her on Jump Start Your Joy.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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Purchase my book, Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle
Barron Steffen is a Siddha Yoga practitioner, a big band crooner, and a widower. He is also the author of the book, “The Final Gift of the Beloved: Her Disappearance - 13 Days,” where he shares the story of the death of his wife Dr. Seana Lowe Steffen and the 13 days that follow. It is a joy to speak with him, and it is an honor to have him share his journey of saying goodbye to the love of his life, and the peace and joy that came with that journey. Barron now focuses his life’s work on “The Yoga of Mindset,” a program that helps children and other people to give them the “tools necessary to live harmoniously among our thoughts,” and spread the art of mindfulness.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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Purchase my book, Jump Start Your Joy: Heart-Centered Ways to Find Joy in The Messy Middle
How do we welcome in a new year, after 2020 was full of so many difficult things? In this first interview of 2021, I'm so delighted to be joined by the five podcasters behind "The Best Parts Podcast:" Louise Neil, Nikki Baker Wulf, Laura Lively, Sara Doell, and Kim Romain. Their philosophy is that all parts of our lives are the best parts. I know that there is a really big desire to slam the door on 2020, and call it a dumpster fire. Instead, I want to focus on what is going on for each of us as we enter into a new year
That said, there's something that's really juicy about the middle of all of this, because:
One: I don't think all the problems that we've come up with and seen in 2020 are just going to end. We've already seen that that isn't true.
Two: Much of the turmoil that's been put into motion across the board is also going to stay in play.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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In this episode, we’ll be looking at how to bring joy into your life, even when it’s hard. Many of us are sitting in the midst of extremes right now: feeling isolated and wishing for connection, being overwhelmed and wishing for calm. We are sad over the current situation of the world, and also want to feel joy. In this episode I’ll share how you can integrate these things in your life, by looking for the “and.”
Finding Joy in The Messy Middle
When we get into a place like the pandemic, and things have been difficult for a sustained amount of time, finding joy becomes a practice. And, it becomes more important than ever before. One way of doing this is to make sure that you become mindful of adding joy into your day, and scheduling in time (or taking the time) to do something that helps to connect you to joy each day.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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I could not be more excited to share this week’s interview with John McEuen of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. John is one of the most celebrated and best known banjo players in the world, and has had a long and exciting career in music. It was amazing to get to speak with him about his book, “The Life I’ve Picked,” his early days at the magic shop in Disneyland (where he became friends with Steve Martin), and about being the first American musical group to tour Russia in 1977.
I also loved getting to hear about John’s creative process, and how much he delights in creating music to share with others. You can hear the joy in his voice as he talks about his experiences. Plus, he talks about “bone records” which made to bootleg music into Russia in the 70s, and that is not something you are gonna hear on any other podcast today.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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In this interview, I’m joined by Lan Cao and Harlan Margaret Van Cao, who are the mother and daughter team who have written the beautiful duet memoir, “Family in Six Tones: A Refugee Mother, an American Daughter.” Lan Cao immigrated to the United States in 1975, after the end of the Vietnam War. She raised her daughter, Harlan, in the US. In their beautiful memoir, they both share about their journey in growing up.
In this interview, we talk about:
- Lan and Harlan’s experiences growing up
- The importance of the role of both of their fathers in their lives
- How they wrote a duet memoir as mother and daughter
- The relationships between mothers and daughters
- The awkwardness of high school
- Dealing with isolation and the longing to belong
- Vietnam, the war, and what it was like to move to the US as a Vietnamese immigrant
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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This episode’s interview is with Marsha Flowers of Five Blessings Candles in Leavenworth, Kansas. She’s been an entrepreneur for years, making candles and creating “Happiness in a Flicker” with unique scents and joyful names. She has had both a brick and mortar version of her business, and she is now all online.
Marsha and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy: playing as the candlemaker
- How she and her sister started making candles and began their entrepreneurial
- Why Marsha left the business for a bit, and why she’s back
- Going from brick and mortar to online sales (and why that’s great during COVID)
- The magic that’s happened along the way to discovering the pieces that have made her business work
- Ways to make the holidays feel a little merrier this year, even during COVID
- Her favorite scents and how she makes and names them
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The author of “You Were Not Born to Suffer,” Blake Bauer and Paula talk about the themes of initiation, struggle, and hardship as a path to knowing yourself and finding your purpose wove through the conversation and finding joy in the messy middle.
In this episode, Blake and I talk about:
- Early joys of falling in love
- His “initiation” into adulthood in high school, when he was arrested for a DUI and was deep into addiction and drug use.
- How he found his way back to his own purpose and center after a rough time in his teen years
- Getting curious about your interests, and giving yourself permission to follow them
- What to do when you feel that your energy, blood, or emotions are stuck
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This week’s podcast is a new solocast all about the courage and joy … and I also share some of my favorite things that might not seem to all match at first glance. Princess Diaries, Battlestar Galactica, and Brené Brown ?!?! Well, they all have a thing or two to say about courage, about facing our fears, and about being vulnerable and embracing joy.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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This week, Molly McGlynn Knoderer joins me on the podcast. Molly is the co-founder of Legacy Concierge Services in Northern California. She also recently published a chapter in her first book, “Awakening and Deepening to Truth.” She has deep experience as an entrepreneur, and has followed her own curiosity and passion in her career in elder services after graduating from UC Davis. In the last year, she also wrote about her own journey and truth and so many powerful things to say about the writing process, and how to overcome shame that was present in her life and in so many of our lives.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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In this episode we talk about:
- Molly reflects on her work with elderly people and families who are looking for elder care for people they love.
- The importance of being part of a team, even when you’re not on a “winning” team.
- Curiosity of trying things out, like when she shared what she wanted to do and then did an internship.
- Listening to other people’s stories and recognizing and learning from the history they share
- Being very present in others lives to really hear them.
- Sharing your story, even when it’s hard, and the freedom that it brings.
- The evolution and transformation that comes from sharing the fullness of your story.
- Understanding the legacy we want to create and the legacy elders in our life want to create.
In this episode, Megan Gallagher joins me to talk about anxiety, and how to navigate it. After living with intense panic attacks (up to 20 a day) and anxiety as a teenager, Megan made it her life mission to inspire teenagers and parents on how to deal with anxiety in today's modern world by speaking at countless middle schools and high schools about her story.
Megan has written an amazing book, and she's a two time TED Talk giver. Today, she is a resource and inspiration for so many teenagers navigating the world of mental health. I'm really excited to have her join me on the show.
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy podcast, I’m delighted to be sharing an interview with Dr. Jeff Spiess. Author of the book, “Dying with Ease: A Compassionate Guide for Making Wiser End-of-Life Decisions,” Dr. Spiess was an oncologist, and later a hospice physician. He spent his medical career working with people were facing serious illness and death, and had a lot of experience in how to navigate both for all who are involved.
I’m honored to have Dr. Spiess on the show, and really excited to talk to him about how to find joy now, when we are alive. And, we talk about how to find joy even with the existential knowledge of knowing we are all headed toward death. What do we need to do now, to set ourselves up for more joy while we’re alive?
How do we help others who are facing death feel contentment and joy in their time here?
What’s it like to hold joy and the reality of our own mortality in the same moment?
Get all the show notes and a full transcript at the website.
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In the season 6 opener, I'm looking at the Messy Middle, and how we are living in it right now. What is the Messy Middle? Why is it hard? Why do we long to know the ending, while still needing to lean into this time of transformation? Join me.
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Recorded live from the She Podcasts Live Conference, we are sharing the six most joyful things we've seen and heard here - from podcasters doing innovative things, to the community, to the spirit of altruism and inclusion, it's been an amazing conference.
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I share my aha moments about how to make lasting change in your life without getting overwhelmed. How can you take what inspires you, and make it work for you?
Episode 219: Flylady Marla Cilley on How Form Habits and Routines to Create More Joy In Your Life
Episode 18: Flylady Marla Cilley on Finally Loving Yourself
Episode 19: Flylady Marla Cilley on “Finding Joy in Everything You Do”
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Mari Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
Marla Cilley's Website
How do you find a career that you love, especially when you're working a 9 to 5 that feels soul sucking? Have you decided it's time to make the change? Laura Simms is the expert in helping people find careers that feel like home.
In this episode, Laura Simms and I talk about:
- The kinds of people she works with
- Marketing during a pandemic
- The trends she’s seeing in people looking to make a career change now
- How to make the change: define what you want, and then make a plan to get there
- Developing Quiet Confidence
- How to know if you’re ready for a career transition
Read the full show notes on the website.
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Oren Jay Sofer is a communication expert and mindfulness teacher at Spirit Rock in Woodacre, California. He recently wrote the book “Say What You Mean: A Nonviolent Approach to Communication,” and I’m delighted to have him as a guest on the podcast.
In this look back episode episode, Oren and I talk about:
-Mindful communication
-That language is an inherited phenomenon
-How to stop ruminating over anger when you are upset
-The work of Marshall Rosenberg around non-violent communication
-Active listening and how to build understanding in communication
-His thoughts on how to Jump Start Your Joy: find ways to be kind and generous, attune to beauty, connect to meaning and purpose, and play more
Read the full show notes on the website.
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Resources
Say What You Mean: A Nonviolent Approach to Mindful Communication by Oren Jay Sofer (on Amazon)
Oren Jay Sofer’s Website
Sign up for Oren’s class that starts October 17, 2019
Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg
From mindfulness to lunar abundance, and quiet bohemians to happiness coaches, and self care and creative process, this season has been an amazing gathering of people who embrace playing small in their own way. This is the finale for Season 5.
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How do you move forward and find joy when you're in the middle of upheaval, tough times, and everything has changed? And how to you build a foundation during that time? In Part one of my season 5 finale, I share thoughts on joy during the pandemic.
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The pandemic has added a layer of stress to basic things like school and daily family life for many. Tami Hackbarth joins to talk about how you and your family can honor what what each person needs, adding kindness, grace, and ease to your days.
This week on Jump Start Your Joy, I'm sharing 6 ways to create a foundation for a joy-filled life during the pandemic. It's no secret that living in 2020 has brought many of the things that we considered foundational to our world into question. Health, school, our work, groceries, equality, safety, and freedom have all come into question as the world grapples with the immense change that COVID-19 has brought with it.
One of the questions I'm getting asked on interviews and from listeners is: how do I find joy now, in the midst of the pandemic?
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Author, artist, and entrepreneur, Colin Egglesfield joins to talk about creating connection authentic connection, listening, and how to become an "Agile Artist." He also shares testicular cancer, his role on All My Children, and his new online courses.
Starting a business can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you embrace starting small, and following what lights you up - it doesn't have to be. Inspired by a listener's question, this episode tells you how to embrace your dreams.
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I'm delighted to have the founder and CEO of Remix PR joining me today. Andi Albin works with big names in the music and entertainment industry, and she has lovingly built her business from the ground up. With clients like Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block, Matthew Morrison (of Glee), and Colin Egglesfield, Andi and her team focus on creating digital experiences and building relationships for clients. I'm honored to have her join the podcast to talk about the key to finding joy after hitting rock bottom.
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Elsie Escobar of She Podcasts and Libsyn joins me today to talk about finding your voice, how to pick a name for your show, that change is the only constant, and how she learned to ground in and get connected (and encourages others to do the same).
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In this podcast interview, Elsie Escobar and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy, having soft serve ice cream with her grandmother, and playing with the contents of her wallet.
- Starting her podcast back in 2005 (Elsie’s Yoga Class)
- How to name your podcast (and why you should not stress that much about it)
- Change being the only constant in podcasting and life
- How to create a community
- How podcasters can ground into their truth and share their stories
- What’s bringing her joy: gardening, and walking in nature
Resources
Elsie Escobar’s Website
Elsie on Twitter
Elsie on Instagram
She Podcasts on Facebook
She Podcasts Live
Recode Decode with Kara Swisher
My recap on the 2019 She Podcasts Live Conference
The author of "Moving Beyond Trauma," Ilene Smith is a somatic experiencing practitioner, trauma healer and speaker. She shares the role trauma plays in our lives, how to work with trauma, and how to approach the current trauma vortex we're all living in, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read the full show notes on the website.
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It takes a lot of heart, courage, and vulnerability to reject the pressure to "play big." By letting go of the expected hustle, and efforting, you can find joy in ways that are small, manageable, and noticeable, everyday.
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Inspired by the Erica Cordea's presentation at She Podcasts Live, in this episode I'm reflecting on how you can use the inspiration, intention, and action framework to embrace Imperfect Allyship and the work of dismantling racism.
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Here are the actions I will take (to begin): 1. Show up in "imperfect ally-ship"
Learn more about this from Erica Cordea at Pause on the Play or tune into Erica on Amy Porterfield's Online Marketing Made Easy podcast.
-
Keep working, and doing the work, while acknowledging that "The line of progress is never straight."
You can read more about this, which is in Martin Luther King, Jr's "Where do we go from here?" -
Be mindful of intent AND Impact
Jamie Utt talks about this on Everyday Feminism -
Provide feedback to other allies in a way that the person can hear it.
When sharing feedback with other white allies; insight from Kathryn Britton in Positive Psychology News. -
Honor that "the hidden work is the heart work is the hard work." Doing the work doesn't need to be done real-time or publicly. Doing the work means I will share learnings and resources.
Read about this quote from Ashlee Eiland on Instagram.
Resources mentioned in this episode Erica Cordea Pause on the Play
Rachel Cargle The Great Unlearn Patreon
Trudi LeBron
Nicole Cardoza's Anti-Racism Daily Newsletter
Layla Saad: Good Ancestor Podcast and Me and White Supremacy
How do you find a career that you love, especially when you're working a 9 to 5 that feels soul sucking? Have you decided it's time to make the change? Laura Simms is the expert in helping people find careers that feel like home.
In this episode, Laura Simms and I talk about:
- The kinds of people she works with
- Marketing during a pandemic
- The trends she’s seeing in people looking to make a career change now
- How to make the change: define what you want, and then make a plan to get there
- Developing Quiet Confidence
- How to know if you’re ready for a career transition
In this episode, I’m delighted to be joined by Dr. Ezzie Spencer, author of “Lunar Abundance” and the “Lunar Abundance Journal.” After first hearing her interview with Jess Lively in 2017, I was deeply inspired by her story. Ezzie started out as a lawyer in Australia, and also holds a Ph.D in emotional well being. Starting in childhood, Ezzie found herself drawn to the moon and its phases in cycles, and found herself returning to its magic and cycles as she looked for ways to cope with the stress of life as a lawyer.
In this episode, Dr. Ezzie Spencer and I talk about:
-Her early sparks of joy in watching the moon
-Working as a lawyer, and finding herself at the brink of burn out
-Returning to the inspiration of the moon and its cycles and phases
-How to take inspiration from the lunar phases and cycles as a way to pace our own lives
-Re.love, and her work with women who have experienced toxic relationships
-How to jump start your joy: set an intention to be joyful, meditation, asking what is the one thing you’re grateful for, right now?
Resources:
Lunar Abundance: Cultivating Joy, Peace, and Purpose Using the Phases of the Moon by Dr. Ezzie Spencer
Lunar Abundance Journal (on Amazon)
Re.Love program for recovering from toxic relationships by Dr. Ezzie Spencer
Dr. Ezzie Spencer on The Lively Show Episode 212
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Jennifer Louden is a coach, author, and all around delightful powerhouse of self care, and I’m delighted to have her on the show to talk about her upcoming book: Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next. Considered a pioneer in the self care movement, Jennifer wrote her first book, The Woman’s Comfort Book, in 2005. I really enjoyed talking to Jennifer, and it was an honor to have her on the show.
Jennifer Louden and I talk about:
-How masterminds and coaches can help shed light on things that you can’t see for yourself
-Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next
-Using what bothers you as an invitation to dig deeper and create transformation
-Rock bottom as a place to transform from
-Why we need to normalize that life has hard parts to it, and struggle
-Taking action is the key transforming
-Living a human scale life - one that honors your need for boundaries and care instead of being focused on hustle
-Why “faster” and “hacking” and “hustle” don’t equate to “better” and why we need to set kind goals for ourselves
-“Net joy” and how to keep it as a compass for your life
-Change and growth are not linear
-How Wonder can help you get your bother on
-Grit without compassion is just grind
Resources
Jennifer Louden’s website
The Life Organizer: A Woman’s Guide to a Mindful Year by Jennifer Louden on Amazon
Order Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next by Jennifer Louden on Amazon
Episode 247: Why it's time to embrace playing small
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This week, Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh (also know as The Egg Whisperer) is back for her second interview here on the podcast. Dr. Aimee is a fertility specialist, living in the San Francisco Bay Area, and she works with people who want to grow their families. It’s a treat to have her on Jump Start Your Joy to talk about how she has developed a positive mental attitude, not letting the virus steal her joy, and how she’s advising fertility patients to approach treatment during the coronavirus pandemic.
In this episode, Dr. Aimee and I talk about:
- What and who inspired her unique way of treating patients with such care
- What’s changed for fertility patients (treatment-wise, and emotionally) during COVID-19
- How to learn more about your fertility: understand when you are fertile, how fertility declines over time
- The TUSHY Method for getting a snapshot of your fertility: T is for falloppian tubes, U is for Ultrasound of your uterus, S is for Sperm, H is for Hormones, and Y is for Your Genetic profile
- Why sperm is important to the fertility equation
- How to approach a doctor with the questions you have
- That more people should trust their intuition when it comes to health questions
- Aimee’s mindfulness and meditation practice
- How to sign up for Egg Whisperer School
Resources
Dr. Aimee on Episode 2 of JSYJ
Dr. Aimee’s Egg Whisperer Show podcast
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While there is a lot of noise out there about "Playing Big," I want to encourage Playing Small. What happens when you embrace that you ARE enough, just as you are, and that it is OK to live a life that fits you, right now? Let's dive in!
Managing your stress, and looking for ways to find joy, contentment, and peace during the pandemic will help you stay positive. Mallory Wisong joins to talk about practices and ideas on how to keep centered.
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Some of what we cover:
In this episode, Mallory and I talk about:
-Moon cycles, yin and yang, and the cosmic shift happening
-Grief, and the collective grief we’re all experiencing
-How trees communicate through their roots, and our connection to each other
-Examples of mindfulness tools we use, and that we’re finding especially helpful right now
Read the full show notes here.
I’m delighted to be sharing this interview with Tiffany Han, host of Raise Your Hand Say Yes on the podcast this week. Tiffany is an amazing life coach, leader of her year long “Inner Circle” class, and offers up a lot of guidance on how to “have a life that feels as good on inside as it looks on the outside.”
In this interview, Tiffany and I talk about:
- Life feeling like we’re all drinking from a firehose since the beginning of the pandemic
- How to invite calm into your life as an ambitious person
- Embracing self care, and taking the steps you need to take to feel good about yourself and your routine
- Being a teacher and sharing your current experience and integration points with others as a way of teaching and validating experiences
- Taking time to grab the bull by the horns, the first time around, to get something done (knowing that you’re going to have to do it that way sooner or later, and any other way is delaying the pain)
- Why she’s returned to the title of “Life Coach”
- What people really mean when they say they want freedom
- What it means to be a truth teller, and how that is hard and how it can change your life
- Continued evolution
Resources
Tiffany Han’s website
Early Bird registration for the Inner Circle (through 4/17/20)
Tiffany’s 31 Days to Flow Class (starts 4/27/20)
Join the Free “Plan Your Podcast 5 Day Challenge” starting 4/20
Sign up for “Jump Start Your Podcast” to create your own podcast
Grief and grieving is a big part of what the society is going through right now with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, I'm looking at the work of David Kessler and a past interview with Julia Samuel for thoughts on how you can name and process the emotions and grief you're feeling.
In this episode:
- I share the article in Harvard Business Review where David Kessler names the discomfort we're feeling: grief.
- Her first love of swinging on her garden swing as a child Starting Child Bereavement UK, and her work as a patron
- Her early influences, including the bereavement of her parents
- Her love of personal connection, and how that led her from a role in publishing to becoming a grief and bereavement counselor
- The roots and starting point for her book, Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving
- Why people shut down and isolate when they grieve, and why they judge themselves on a right or wrong way of grieving
- Why allowing yourself to feel the emotions of grief is important
- How to feel the emotions of grief and loss without being overcome by it
- The impacts of losing important figures like Princess Diana to society, and why so many people are deeply stirred by these tragic losses
- How a country processes the loss of children in tragedies like school shootings, as it raises the questions of “the existential cruelty of life”
- How Julia reacts to resistance, by continuing on her path
- How to jump start your joy: by enjoying her grandchildren’s giggles, getting in touch with nature, and watching romantic comedies and The Amazing Miss Maizel
ResourcesJulia Samuel’s Website
Harvard Business Review : That Discomfort You're Feeling is Grief (an interview with David Kessler)
David Kessler on Dr. Brene Brown's Podcast, Unlocking Us
Julia Samuel’s book, Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving on Amazon
If you are grieving: Julia’s 8 pillars of strength (a free download)
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss by Elizabeth Kubla-Ross
Waking the Tiger, by Peter Levine (a book on healing trauma)
The Marvelous Mrs Maisel on Amazon Prime
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Fred LeBlanc, the energetic drummer and lead singer of the band Cowboy Mouth is back for a second visit this week to talk about his brand new release, “Open Arms.” It was fun having him join me for this interview about the new music the band is putting out, along with an updated version they’ve done of their hit, “Jenny Says.”
What Fred LeBlanc and I talk about in this interview:
- His new EP, Open Wide
- Thank God I’m a Country Boy, which is on the new EP
- “King of The World,” a song that is about him, on the new EP
- How the Coronavirus impacts touring, and his take on it
- How to reconnect with joy, and keep choosing it
Get the New EP, Open Wide.
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How do you embrace change, when everything feels like everything has turned on it's head? In this short episode, Paula talks about the inspiration, intention, and action you can take to find calm in the storm.
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Tara McMullin joins Paula to talk about the many ways she's pivoted in her life and business in recent years. In this fun interview, we talk about "What Works" and how you can jump into authentic leadership as a business owner.
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-Running a small business
-Podcasting and how it’s a growing industry
-Our backgrounds, which are both in religious studies
-The What Works network, and how she engages with small businesses
-What happens when your personal values are misaligned with your business
-The importance of independent thinking and personal agency
-The What Works rule of “no advice,” and valuing experience over expertise
-What happens when we “live a Story”
-Being an Enneagram 3, and not chasing accomplishments
-Our similarities: softball, religious studies, podcasting
-How to Jump Start Your Joy: do what you say you will, question your assumptions, and expect success
Resources
The Art of Gathering by Pria Parker on Amazon
Company of One: Why Staying Small is the Next Big Thing for Business by Paul Jarvis on Amazon
War of Art by Stephen Pressfield on Amazon
Enneagram Institute
Get the full show notes here: http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2020/03/9-ways-to-cope-with-overwhelm-during-hard-times
Join the Thursday live chats: https://paulajenkins1-gmail-com.ck.page/73765b29a5
Amidst the Coronavirus pandemic, school closures, and shelter in place announcements, no doubt you're feeling a bit overwhelmed. In this episode, Paula shares 9 ways to work with, and tame, overwhelm in your life.
4 Things to Try:
Stop worrying about trying to find the silver lining, or the bright side of the situation
Embrace “let it be” instead of “let it go”
Notice the emotions and feelings that are present
Mindfully choose what is most important, and what (or who) you want to give your energy to
Five things to consider when working with overwhelm:
Can this thing wait?
Take a break from the situation
It’s OK to treat yourself
You are not your thoughts
Sleep is important
Kayla Butler of Ivory Mix is joining me this week to talk about how she started her business, what it’s been like growing a stock photography site, and how community has been the center of her business from the beginning. In this episode, I'm delighted to be talking all about joy, creativity, and stock photography at 'Ivory Mix' with Kayla Butler.
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-Her early love of drawing Disney stories, and desire to be a Disney artist
-Going into interior design as a career
-Getting burnt out once she was in a director position and no longer creating designs regularly
-Choosing the name “Ivory Mix” as a blank canvas for her to try new things
-How creative people keep hitting up against the wall of possibly becoming more involved in running a business than doing the creative pieces, and how to juggle that
-How giving away quality, free, incentives can help build a strong community
-Growing a business while working a 9 to 5 job
-Creating a business that is niched, and different than a standard stock photo site
-Importance of building authority and how to do it
-Ways to jump start your joy: gratitude, random acts of kindness, and creating boundaries
Christy Tending is back for her sixth visit, and this time we’re talking about how our lives and businesses have recently evolved. It’s a living discussion, and one that started when we met to co-work at a cafe this summer and found ourselves diving into a conversation about how we’d recently had a very mindful and impactful experience of making decisions that have intrinsically changed who we are, and how we approach things.
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In this episode, Christy Tending and I talk about:
- How things can reach a point where it’s no longer possible for you to continue doing what once worked for you
- How Christy quit drinking and the reasons why she chose to make that change
- The intrinsic connection between making decisions as a consumer, capitalism, and politics
- How I called bullshit on the idea that “the other shoe was about to drop” in my personal life and marriage
- How nagging is a choice, and how to stop nagging (zen moment: just stop)
- How you can create a business or an offering, or a podcast, by focusing on the things that seem easy to you
- What’s easy for you is not necessarily easy for anyone else (and how that leads you to discount the power of what comes easily)
- Why it’s important to talk about the role of racism, alcoholism, climate, and other pieces of our heritage that we don’t find acceptable with our children
- Why and how stating what your business stands for, and how it has evolved helps you find your true audience (and why that’s OK)
- How we evolve and become more comfortable with stating what words fit us (anarchist, Buddhist, etc)
- The roles of studentship and conversely, being a “guru”
- Studentship: What it looks like to be a student of your own process, and of learning new things as you go
- The possible role of self doubt and the inner critic when you complicate things
- The balance of really not knowing the outcome of any situation, and finding our way to be confident and share our expertise around something
- The wisdom of leaning on others in your community for knowledge and leadership, instead of acting like one person knows everything (which they don’t)
- The importance of having community in business
- We all have access to the divine any time we want it, and we all have access to politics and power whenever we want it
- That capitalism tells us that if we are good at something and it is lucrative: we’re supposed to do that thing until we drop
Resources
Christy Tending’s beautiful new website
Christy Tending’s podcast: Tending Your Life
This week on the podcast, I’m delighted to be talking about changing the narrative for small businesses and entrepreneurs in marketing with JinJa Birkenbeuel of Birk Creative and the Honest Field Guide podcast. JinJa and I had the pleasure of meeting at She Podcasts Live, and I truly enjoyed her sense of humor, realness, and her enthusiasm for podcasting. It’s a treat to have her on the show.
In this episode, JinJa and I talk about:
-Her early love of candy and the magic and freedom she felt going to the store to buy some each week with her friends
-How to help businesses keep up with the pace of change these days
-Coaching women and entrepreneurs in finding success in business
-How she is changing the the narrative for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs
-Using LinkedIn for networking, connecting, and growing your business (more than looking for a job)
-How it’s sometimes uncomfortable to own your own expertise, and your own narrative
-Taking a good look at what motivates you and how much you really need
-Focusing on the conversation that’s at the heart of marketing no matter what medium you’re working in
-Finding what fits for you in marketing, regardless of what everyone else is doing
-Owning your introversion / extroversion
-The reality of being a solo-preneur and juggling so many things. (Automation is great, but it’s still hard to keep up).
Resources
Birk Creative
Episode 14 of The Honest Field Guide Podcast: “I hate networking”
Honest Field Guide Podcast
Laura Li’s Quietly Bohemian Podcast
Forbes Article about Jinja this week “How Google-Sizing Her Mindset Propelled This Founder’s Career Forward”
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Marketing yourself or your small business is a journey. In this episode, I'm focusing on what happens when you talk about what makes you unique, as inspired by Taylor Swift's journey as seen in Netflix's Miss Americana.
Action: Look at your social media feeds. Look at what you’re sharing. Look at the pictures you’re posting. And get honest with yourself.
What are you sharing because it’s expected?
What language are you using because it’s a turn of phrase that’s popular right now?
What images are you posting to keep up with an image of what’s expected or cool?
Where are you censoring yourself, and why?
On the flip of it, notice what you’re sharing that feels like you, to the core.
What are you saying that you want to say more of?
What in your social media brings you joy and highlights the things you love about yourself and your life?
And, where have you been hiding out and wanting to say something, but you’ve been quiet because of an external expectation?
Tune in to Miss Americana on Netflix.
Listen to Episode 234 (Six Ways to Make Marketing More Joyful) by clicking here.
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Having been a project manager in marketing and advertising for 20 years, it was a shock to me when I moved into marketing myself. If you have listened for awhile you’ll know that I started my podcast as the marketing arm for a life coaching practice. The podcast took off, and, I started learning a lot about what to know about being successful at marketing as an entrepreneur, and how to make it joyful.
I’m sharing my thoughts with you here this week about how I have found my way to the Joy of marketing.
Find the whole article and show notes on the website. Click here.
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Marketing your small business doesn't have to feel gross, or like an effort or hustle. This week I'm sharing the inspiration I found in my conversation with Suzie Soloviev, and sharing how you can look to your past to find your joyful through line, now.
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the Inspiration this week is to look at your life from a place of wonder. If you drop the accolades and list of things you’ve accomplished (which are all amazing, btw!), how would you introduce yourself to someone else? If you look at what you love and what lights you up, how do you define yourself?
Intention: I will start to notice how I see myself. I will notice when I identify with accolades and degrees, and I will notice when I see myself as the things I’m passionate about, that bring me joy. I will look for and uncover those things if it seems like I can’t remember what they are.
Action: On a sheet of paper, take 5 minutes and list out the top 5 things that you loved doing and being in these age ranges:
Ages 1-5 (or your earliest memories)
Ages 5-10 (this is early elementary school)
Ages 10-20 (think about middle school and high school)
Ages 20-30 (college, and a lot of “adulting” firsts happen in this range)
30 and after (adult life, with it’s shifts. Also, feel free to add in 30-40, 40-50 if you like. I’m not suggesting that life remains static after 30. I might also add in “Life after having a kid”)
Take a look, after you’ve made your list, and look for patterns. Was interacting with people a major part of your life? How about planning or leading? Creativity?
Now, I want you to look at your current life and see if the major through lines are still present.
This is your story, your narrative, something you love. Can you craft a new bio or a new description of yourself that involves what you found, above?
And, would you consider using that description the next time someone asks what you do?
In this episode, I’m delighted to have Suzie Soloviev of Your Sacred Record coming on to talk about how you can have more fun and more joy in your marketing. She’s a story teller at heart, and helps people discover how they can tell their story clearly - from bios, to copy for websites, to crafting your message, Suzie digs in and finds the truth and clarity for her clients. Plus she shares how she incorporates puppets into her business, which you’re going to want to learn more about, and we dig into why you need to be sharing your pricing up front, as part of your marketing information.
In this episode, Suzie Soloviev and I talk about:
-Her earliest sparks of joy: performing and video taping those performances as a kid
-Her background writing copy for businesses
-How she landed her first client on a call
-Why marketing can feel arduous or like a chore (hint: You’re pushing something you don’t really want to be doing)
-Why Suzie has a puppet in her Instagram feed
-How to embrace your own truth and let it become your business (we both fought it)
-How it’s hard, as a multipassionate, to own the Thing you want to do
-How to write a great bio
-Pricing and Marketing are part of the same conversation
-Three ways to jump start your joy: Add plants to your home or living space, do something silly and share it with a child (or online), and sing with other people.
Resources
Suzie Soloviev’s website: Your Sacred Record
Brene Brown: The Call to Courage on Netflix
Brene Brown: Joy is Terrifying
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Marketing is the focus this month, and I'm taking a look at the inspiration from Lisa Princic of Scaling Deep. Learn how to make marketing more joyful and fun, based on who you are, and your personality.
Resources
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Take the Myers-Briggs personality indicator test.
Lisa Princic’s Website: Scaling Deep
Lisa’s podcast: Scaling Deep
Paula on Lisa Princic’s Scaling Deep Podcast
his week kicks off “The Joy of Marketing” month, where I’ll be talking with small business owners and marketing experts about how they have found ease and joy in their marketing.
Lisa Princic is the branding and growth specialist behind “Scaling Deep,” which is the name of both her business and podcast. I knew she was a great fit for “Joy of Marketing Month” here on the show because her approach to growing your business is refreshingly distinctive. Instead of doing “all the things” or feeling like you need to be “everything to everyone,” she encourages entrepreneurs to scale deep. In other words, identify your niche that matches your zone of genius (aka the work you REALLY want to do) and build your business around that.
In this episode, Lisa Princic and I talk about:
- Loving adventures with her parents as a child and sharing those same things with her son
- Her evolution: a journey from life coach to business coach, and now a business strategist who also helps people set up Facebook Ads
- The importance of finding your own niche that lights you up
- The confidence that comes from finding your way to a business that feels authentic, and like a match for your personality
- That there are many successful solo and entrepreneurships out there that are not doing mass marketing
- it’s OK if the tactics that others are doing isn’t a match for you or your business
- You can have a successful small or solo business without the mass marketing we’re all seeing, and by focusing on a few key outreach components
- How to simplify and pick something that provides tangible results for people
- When to pivot your business or marketing if it feels off to you. You may not have yet landed on your true message or path.
Lisa Princic’s Website: Scaling Deep https://scalingdeep.com/
Lisa’s podcast: Scaling Deep https://scalingdeep.com/podcast/
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How do you set yourself up for personal, heartfelt, meaningful success for a new year? I'm inspired by the words of Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh and Kate Courageous this week, as I look back on "How to Plan Your Year" month.
Psychiatric nurse, life coach, and intuitive eating specialist, Molly Larkin joins Paula to talk about how you can look at body image, food, and eating in a new way. By learning to trust your own intuition, you can achieve a balanced, joyful approach.
In this episode, Molly Larkin and I talk about:
-Intuitive eating
-Finding your set point range for your weight and habits: What have you been doing and what worked?
-How you can attune to what your body wants and needs, and allow that to direct your eating habits
-Why society demonizes food groups like carbs and fat
-How many of people are terrified of letting go of the diets and restrictive eating because it’s the only way you’ve know so far
-Asking what works for your body?
-The 10 principles of intuitive eating
-Looking for what pulls you from the present moment
-The ties between Byron Katie and intuitive eating
-Learning to “Wage Peace” with your body and your own size
-How to jumpstart joy: tell the truth, beginning with yourself, showing up and dropping into the present moment, being grateful
Resources
Molly Larkin’s Website
Molly in Episode 10 “Meeting All Things With Loving Kindness”
Molly’s course: Waging Peace
Byron Katie's book "Loving What Is" - my favorite of her books, on Amazon - it's simply brilliant and I know you'll love it!
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When I first heard Dr. Ezzie Spencer on another podcast back in 2017, I knew I had to talk to her. She’s the author of Lunar Abundance, and she’s defined a framework for creating a natural balance in your life that is all based on the moon, it’s cycles and phases. Now, before you shut this email thinking this is some new-fangled out-there hippy talk (this would be exactly why I’d keep reading, but, to each their own) … keep reading because there’s some big aha moments ahead.
One of the things that Ezzie talks about, and that feels like a missing piece of my life’s puzzle was that the moon has two different kinds of cycles: those with “doing” or Yang cycles that have a more masculine quality, and those cycles that are Yang, or “being” and have more feminine qualities. And the moon goes through four of each of those cycles every month.
Action: The marriage of being and doing: and there are a couple of ways to try this out.
Starting tomorrow, we hit the first new moon of the year and you could try out Ezzie’s Lunar Abundance approach. I love the structure and process that she’s set out.
If that seems like a bit much for you right now, allow yourself to be inspired by the idea of following the phases of the moon and build in down time to your day, your week, and your month. Where can you mindfully note that you might like a break? For example, my coach, Jennifer Lee, sets aside Fridays for creative time. I’ve started blocking off Wednesdays for myself so I know I have a breather in the middle of the week. Where can you block off some time to rest?
Resources:
Lunar Abundance: Cultivating More Joy, Peace, and Purpose Using the Phases of the Moon
Lunar Abundance Journal
Dr. Ezzie Spencer on The Lively Show Episode 212
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In this episode, I’m delighted to be joined by Dr. Ezzie Spencer, author of “Lunar Abundance” and the “Lunar Abundance Journal.” After first hearing her interview with Jess Lively in 2017, I was deeply inspired by her story. Ezzie started out as a lawyer in Australia, and also holds a Ph.D in emotional well being. Starting in childhood, Ezzie found herself drawn to the moon and its phases in cycles, and found herself returning to its magic and cycles as she looked for ways to cope with the stress of life as a lawyer.
In this episode, Dr. Ezzie Spencer and I talk about:
-Her early sparks of joy in watching the moon
-Working as a lawyer, and finding herself at the brink of burn out
-Returning to the inspiration of the moon and its cycles and phases
-How to take inspiration from the lunar phases and cycles as a way to pace our own lives
-Re.love, and her work with women who have experienced toxic relationships
-How to jump start your joy: set an intention to be joyful, meditation, asking what is the one thing you’re grateful for, right now?
Resources:
Lunar Abundance: Cultivating Joy, Peace, and Purpose Using the Phases of the Moon by Dr. Ezzie Spencer
Lunar Abundance Journal (on Amazon)
Re.Love program for recovering from toxic relationships by Dr. Ezzie Spencer
Dr. Ezzie Spencer on The Lively Show Episode 212
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Let's look at laying a strong foundation in your life, and take inspiration from how coach Casey Jourdan defines change and evolution. This time of year is a great chance to look at what still fits and works in your life, and what it's time to let go of.
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I’m delighted to have Casey Jourdan joining me as our guest for this week. Casey is a business strategist extraordinaire. She works with entrepreneurs and solopreneurs as they navigate getting their businesses up and running, and helps them navigate the overwhelm that often comes with the first few years of business. It's a real treat to have a conversation with Casey on change, and the pursuit of evolution. The host of “Steady She Grows” podcast, Casey's done some really interesting work around the pursuit of evolution and how change is a part of everything that we do.
In this episode, Casey Jourdan and I talk about:
-Her early sparks of joy: teaching others
-Creating various iterations of her business as a multipassionate
-Evolution as a practice
-The difference between evolution and growth
-How her religious beliefs changed and shifted after coming home from the Iraq War
-Progress and baby steps living with PTSD
-Navigating the first few years of business and why so many businesses fail
-How to jump start joy in your life: be nice and kind to others, find out what fires you up and go try it, set and observe boundaries.
Resources:
Casey Jourdan’s Website
Steady She Grows Podcast
Casey on Instagram
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Inspired by my discussion with Laura Li of Quietly Bohemian, and her love of Depeche Mode, this 3 Joyful Things episode looks at how you can slow down, and very intentionally take time to immerse yourself in whatever brings you joy. Let's take a look at the inspiration, intention, and action that you can take to be more present in joyful moments.
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Resources
Spotify List: Planning Your Year
Laura Li in Episode 222 on Jump Start Your Joy
Laura Li’s podcast, Quietly Bohemian
Depeche Mode
U2: I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
U2: Where the Streets Have No Name
The Shins: New Slang
The Shins: Girl Sailor
The Eagle by Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Short Stories by Penelope Fitzgerald
In this episode, Laura Li and I talk about:
-Winning a reading competition as a child as her earliest spark of joy.
-She enjoys reading and the magic that lyrics and words to bring to the world, how to support introverts and highly sensitive people.
-What “Quietly Bohemian” means to her and why she chose it for her podcast name
-How to develop an inside out understanding of life inspiration
-Transformation as explained through Depeche Mode as understood by the lyrics of Martin Gore
-British Synth Pop: Depeche Mode, OMD, and more
-What the labels that society puts on each of us mean
-How to start a podcast
-How to be guided by your inner wisdom, and not your inner critic.
-What it means to dance in between fear and excitement
-How to jump start your joy: listening to music, really embodying what it feels like to spending alone time and allowing yourself to be seen and understanding the freedom and lightness of being seen because it is a choice of being oneself.
Resources:
Laura Li’s Website: Quietly Bohemian
Quietly Bohemian Podcast on Spotify
Laura’s upcoming class for planning your 2020 - Creating for the Masses
Spotify List: Planning Your Year
Planing and intention setting for a new year - You'll hear how to take inspiration, set an intention to be more present and mindful, and take action with a centering meditation and journaling exercise.
Spotify List: Planning Your Year
Byron Katie: Loving What is on Amazon
The Mandalorian on Disney +
Jennifer Louden Episode on Jump Start Your Joy
Centering Prayer on Insight Timer
Sister Michelle L'Allier on Jump Start Your Joy
Christy Tending On Jump Start Your Joy
Learn how to create a focused, intentional, joy filled bucket list that you'll actually use for 2020. Tap into what you really want, mindfully say yes to the things that serve you, and discover a list making idea that really works for you.
I share my aha moments about how to make lasting change in your life without getting overwhelmed. How can you take what inspires you, and make it work for you?
Episode 219: Flylady Marla Cilley on How Form Habits and Routines to Create More Joy In Your Life
Episode 18: Flylady Marla Cilley on Finally Loving Yourself
Episode 19: Flylady Marla Cilley on “Finding Joy in Everything You Do”
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Mari Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
Marla Cilley's Website
It’s a true pleasure to have Flylady Marla Cilley back on the podcast for her third episode, this time to talk about how we can form habits and routines to create more joy in our lives. The last time I spoke with Marla, she shared about her work at Flylady.net, and we agreed to regroup closer to the end of my first season to talk about habits and routines. Whether you go back to listen to Episode 18 and 19 to catch up with the conversation, or not, I know you’re going to love this episode.
Resources
Flylady.net – Marla’s website
Episode 18: Flylady Marla Cilley on Finally Loving Yourself
Episode 19: Flylady Marla Cilley on “Finding Joy in Everything You Do”
Jerry Mills’ website: Singer and song writer (who wrote about having ADHD)
David Burns, The 10 Types of Stinkin’ Thinkin’
Marla is the author of “Body Clutter,” and “Sink Reflections,” both are best sellers, and I can not recommend them highly enough.
Sink Reflections – Marla’s first book (on Amazon)
Body Clutter – Marla’s second book (on Amazon)
The launch of 3 joyful things! Paula takes a look at how you can bring Jennifer Louden's idea of living a "human scaled life" into your everyday by unpacking the inspiration, intention, and action and steps to follow so you can give it a try.
Jennifer Louden is a coach, author, and all around delightful powerhouse of self care, and I’m delighted to have her on the show to talk about her upcoming book: Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next. Considered a pioneer in the self care movement, Jennifer wrote her first book, The Woman’s Comfort Book, in 2005. I really enjoyed talking to Jennifer, and it was an honor to have her on the show.
Jennifer Louden and I talk about:
-How masterminds and coaches can help shed light on things that you can’t see for yourself
-Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next
-Using what bothers you as an invitation to dig deeper and create transformation
-Rock bottom as a place to transform from
-Why we need to normalize that life has hard parts to it, and struggle
-Taking action is the key transforming
-Living a human scale life - one that honors your need for boundaries and care instead of being focused on hustle
-Why “faster” and “hacking” and “hustle” don’t equate to “better” and why we need to set kind goals for ourselves
-“Net joy” and how to keep it as a compass for your life
-Change and growth are not linear
-How Wonder can help you get your bother on
-Grit without compassion is just grind
Resources
Jennifer Louden’s website
The Life Organizer: A Woman’s Guide to a Mindful Year by Jennifer Louden on Amazon
Pre-Order Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What’s Next by Jennifer Louden on Amazon
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Dr. Julie Kinn is a clinical psychologist, working at the Department of Defense in their Defense Health Agency’s Connected Health department, creating health technology to teach mindfulness to veterans and those in the armed forces. It was a treat getting to have Julie on the show, she is lovely mix of innovation, smarts, and passion, and I think you’ll just love getting to meet her.
In this episode, Dr. Julie Kinn and I talk about:
-Health technology to teach mindfulness
-DHA Connected Health and its role in the DoD (Department of Defense)
-Behavioral health and mental health
-Sleep, and the importance of good sleep in your day
-Military healthcare innovations
-Apps to support military children
-Free apps and podcasts that are available to everyone, worldwide
-DoD’s partnership with Sesame Street to create apps to support kids
-How to approach the overuse of apps and screen time by children
-Living beyond pain
-Her thoughts to jump start your joy: indulge in hobbies, bake bread, and learn to quilt
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To see the full show notes for this episode, click here.
Francesca Hogi is a dating and career coach, 2 time Survivor contestant, and a lawyer. We had a fun and light filled discussion and I feel so grateful that she joined me this week.
n this episode Francesca Hogi and I talk about:
-Her early love of reading, and not knowing what she wanted to be for a career
-Working as a lawyer
-How she was interested early on in relationships and dating
-Attending the Match Making Institute
-How baby steps brought her to become a match maker, and later a coach
-Becoming an entrepreneur
-Advice for finding the right relationship
-Celebrating our “unconscious genius”
-Aiming for contentment and joy in a relationship, and looking at what you prioritize in finding a partner
-Jumpstarting your joy by talking to strangers, taking a social media break, and keeping a gratitude journal
To sign up for the weekly newsletter and get more inspiration, intention, and action around bringing joy into your life, click or tap here.
Learn the ten things you need to know about crafting a creative process for your podcast, blog, or other creative pursuit. Find out why you need to set aside time, the lies we've all been told about what creativity is (and isn't) and how to define process
To read the full show notes, click here.
Fred Waitzkin is the author best known for “Searching for Bobby Fischer,” the story about his son Josh, who was a chess prodigy at age six. It’s with great pleasure that I have Mr. Waitzkin on the show to talk about his new book, “Deep Water Blues.”
In this episode, Fred and I talk about:
-His writing process and how he approaches his craft
-Early influences in his life, including his father and fishing
-His new book, Deep Water Blues
-Tips on how to approach writing and how to craft a story
-How to jump start your joy: meet a friend for a great talk, fishing, and allowing your work to be transformative
Resources
Fred Waitzkin’s Website
Deep Water Blues by Fred Waitzkin (on Amazon)
The Night of the Gun by David Carr (on Amazon)
The Old Man and the Sea in Life Magazine
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Read the full show notes by clicking or tapping here.
In this episode, I’m really thrilled to have the dream catcher coach, Anabell Bender joining me to talk about believing in your dreams, and allowing yourself to live a happy and authentic life. In addition to coaching, Anabell is a a multi-passionate, and has had a lot of experience with the creative process. You can only imagine the massive amounts of joy, delight, and laughter that come from this conversation.
In this episode, Anabell and I talk about:
-Her early joys of altruistically supporting others
-Starting with baby steps to reach your dreams
-How perfectionism can stop you in your tracks
-An introduction to mindfulness
-Finding happiness that is not fleeting
-Human design readings and how they work
-Jump starting joy in the world: smile at others to bring joy to your day and their day
Get the full show notes for this episode by clicking or tapping here.
Kedma Ough is a business development and business funding expert. Having experienced homelessness and abuse in her life, she’s made it her mission to help under-represented entrepreneurs find a way to get their businesses funded. Her book, “Target Funding” is all about how to find unique options for small businesses. Being a multi-passionate, she has focused her own entrepreneurship on two things: helping women and people of color get funding for their small businesses, and niche-ing down to serve and advocate for differently abled individuals.
In this episode, Kedma and I talk about:
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How get funding for your small business
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Looking for superheroes in your life
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How to build a niche business that will support your dreams and be a match for your interests and strengths
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Owning who you are and bringing that into your business
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How to Jump Start Your Joy: practice gratitude, serve others, helping kids
Recorded live from the She Podcasts Live Conference, we are sharing the six most joyful things we've seen and heard here - from podcasters doing innovative things, to the community, to the spirit of altruism and inclusion, it's been an amazing conference.
Sign up for "Three Joyful Things" Newsletter on my website.
Oren Jay Sofer is a communication expert and mindfulness teacher at Spirit Rock in Woodacre, California. He recently wrote the book “Say What You Mean: A Nonviolent Approach to Communication,” and I’m delighted to have him as a guest on the podcast.
In this episode, Oren and I talk about:
-Mindful communication
-That language is an inherited phenomenon
-How to stop ruminating over anger when you are upset
-The work of Marshall Rosenberg around non-violent communication
-Active listening and how to build understanding in communication
-His thoughts on how to Jump Start Your Joy: find ways to be kind and generous, attune to beauty, connect to meaning and purpose, and play more
Resources
Say What You Mean: A Nonviolent Approach to Mindful Communication by Oren Jay Sofer (on Amazon)
Oren Jay Sofer’s Website
Sign up for Oren’s class that starts October 17, 2019
Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg
You can find the full show notes by clicking here.
In this episode I talk about:
- Joy being a choice
- Akashic Records
- The releasing practice that I followed over the summer
- Being a “Full Stop Change Agent”
- Realizing the large role that choice plays in my life every day
- Choosing to let go of alcohol
- Choosing to address trauma in my life
- How my husband and I chose to let go of the Story that “the other shoe was about to drop at any time”
- How my husband and I have chosen to try on new ways of communicating with each other, by working through Oren Jay Sofer’s book together
- The role of curiosity and care in our communication
- My increase in clients that are a perfect match since I went through the practice of releasing what was no longer serving me
- The increase in joy in my life
Sign up for "Three Joyful Things" on my website.
Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Non-Violent Communication by Oren Jay Sofer
The Akashic Records
She Podcasts Live 2019
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Show Notes:
Jess Ekstrom is the energetic CEO and founder of Headbands of Hope, and the developer of the Mic Drop Workshop. I had the pleasure of meeting Jess in Atlanta last year, and knew from the moment she shared the mission of her company (and it only further made me love her when she quoted Will Ferrell) that I wanted to talk to her more, and to have her on the show.
Jess Ekstrom and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy: food, and going on a scavenger hunt for a new skateboard that had her name spray painted on it
- How she started Headbands of Hope
- The insights she learned working for Make a Wish, and having met the owner of Toms shoes as she was creating her company
- Sometimes the things that are most earth shattering and game changing are the simplest
- How to get to inspiration from frustration
- Her Mic Drop workshop, and how it fills the need of having more women speakers at conferences and conventions
- Why we both love Will Ferrell and how we feel that he creates connection with others through humor
- What schools and parents can do to provide children with a more well rounded point of view and better life skills
- Her upcoming book, which is due out in November 2019
- How to jump start joy in your life: unplug: remove yourself from the screen, play more, and develop a writing habit
Resources
Jess Ekstrom’s Headbands of Hope website
Jess Ekstrom’s Mic Drop Workshop website
This week on the show, I’m taking a look at how I grew my business while working a 9 to 5 job. I’ll walk you through the inspiration, intention, and actions I took, and share reflections on how you can use these same tips to start or grow your own business.
Resources
Do a Ten in Three.
The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Kelly Denithorne is an educator, transgender advocate, and the blogger behind “Unordinary Style.” Kelly started her blog in 2010, and began it as a place to explore with her love of style while she was exploring women’s fashion. Born as a male, Kelly tried on several different titles for herself, from transvestite, to cross dresser, and then to transgender non-binary. In the last year, Kelly has begun teaching in her middle school as a woman, and has started the process of transitioning.
In this episode, Kelly Denithorne and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy, hanging out with her sister
- Her experience of growing up as a male, and the confusion that she experienced around having unidentified gender variance
- Being a teacher, and transitioning from dressing as a male to dressing female this school year
- Seeking therapy with someone who specializes in gender variance
- The reactions of her students and parents to her presenting as a woman
- Her path to discovering her true self
- The role being a fashion blogger played in her journey
- Her inspiration in starting to take on speaking opportunities
- How to jumpstart your joy: learn to accept who you are and how you work with it, sharing your story, and always be humble enough to learn
Resources
Kelly Denithorne’s blog: Unordinary Style
Kelly Denithorne’s Speakering Website
How to Create Cleavage, as found on Kelly’s blog
Kelly (as Nadine Spirit) on Instagram
Jessica Lynn’s website
Stasia Savasuk is an amazing style coach, has an outstanding Tedx Talk, and is the founder of Stasia’s Style School. She’s joining me on the show, and I’m delighted to share this interview. We giggled our way through our discussion, and had a hilarious time talking about style, what lights us up, how to find what kinds of styles fit YOU, and, all about Stasia’s inspiring story of becoming an entrepreneur.
In this episode, Stasia and I talk about:
- Her early entrepreneurial work as a child, collecting and selling worms
- How she broke up with style, and wore very bland clothing for many years
- That one size fits all is bullshit
- How to discover style that works for you and reflects who you really are
- How to get in touch with who you really are
- What it looks like to belong to yourself
- How her differently abled child has taught her so much about inside out congruency
- Her thoughts on how to jumpstart your joy: asking yourself how you want to show up, don’t participate in body shaming, and getting outside
Resources
Stasia Savasuk’s website
Stasia on Instagram
This week, two big things hit me at once: the joy that comes naturally to children, and the Netflix special with Brene Brown, where she talks about the vulnerability that adults experience around joy, making it THE most vulnerable of emotions. What gives?
The quick synopsis? Over time, we're conditioned to be cautious with our emotions, and we build up self doubt. What does it look like when you are wrangling a slow build up of self doubt?
Eventually, this can lead to much of what many of us spend so long trying to unwind as you get into your adult life:
- Feeling like you are “too much” or “not enough”
- The impact of mean girls on your life
- Imposter syndrome, or, feeling like you’re a fraud and people are about to find out that you don’t know what you’re doing
- The “who am I to?” question that inner critics love so much
- Inner critics
- Resistance
- Feeling like you’re out of control
- Not trusting yourself to make decisions
- Confidence
- Self – image: how you dress and see yourself
The good news? Once you recognize that you are missing joy, you can find your way back to it.
- Choose joy, daily. Own that you want more joy in your life, and aim for joy, as a “wayfaring” emotion.
- When you feel yourself in that space of being excited and terrified about trying something new, lean in to that. It’s leading you back to a place that feels joyful to you. Don’t let the old conditioning of shying away from excitement or something new stop you.
- Schedule time for joy in your life. Look for places you’ve always wanted to visit, but haven’t. Return to places that have brought you joy. Make space in your schedule to do something joyful, for the sake of joy. Remember, if it’s not on your calendar, it’s not going to happen.
- Think back to what brought you joy as a child. So many guests on the show find that there is a strong tie to whatever they loved as a child in their present life.
- Some thoughts on the top things guests suggest to jump start joy in your life: hang out with animals, do something creative, get in touch with nature.
- Brene Brown found that people who have a gratitude practice, and who believe in a higher power in the universe, are often those who are more likely to be joyful. Try listing or noticing what you’re grateful for each day.
- Catch yourself if you hear yourself spreading “shoulds” or conditioning that is limiting how someone else experiences joy for themselves.
- Do something that surprises or delights someone else.
- Let joy be important to you.
Resources
Brene Brown: the call to courage on Netflix
Kennolyn Camps
The Inspiration of the Four Golden Insights
I truly enjoyed getting to speak with Jonni, and felt myself sinking into the conversation in a deep way. One of the most inspirational parts of the discussion for me was when we walked through the Four Golden Insights, which are the pillars for the work Jonni does.
- Life is Sacred
- Love is our Nature – we serve, nature, and find connection
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Wisdom is our Power – Jonni talks about finding the intelligence of love, and reconciling the appearance of resistance and opposites.
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We also talked about “embodied leadership power, which equals the ability to influence the environment around us.”
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Wisdom can enliven and awaken the truth of who we are
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Fulfillment is our Purpose – we find our purpose by fully understanding who we are
Jonni Pollard and I talk about:
- His earliest sparks of joy as a child – playing with other kids, playing games, and any kind of games where he could evolve and find excitement
- Being a multipassionate, where he reflected that he felt that the many different things he enjoys in his life are all just different ways that his soul and purpose is revealing itself
- The filters that we use from the outside looking in, and how it changes the way we see ourselves
- The desire of creative beings to become expressive
- Our conditioning as children and the pervasive ideology that we learn as young people
- How adopting and conforming to social ideals causes immense suffering
- The four golden insights that set the pillars for the Golden Sequence
- What happens when energy does not flow naturally
- The dissonance that fear creates
- Why we need to connect to our purpose and our humanity
- Jonni’s thoughts How to Jump Start Your Joy: wake up and connect to the world around you, meditate for success and to affirm your humanity, and to show your best connected self to whomever you first have contact with in the morning
Resources
Jonni Pollard’s website
The Golden Sequence by Jonni Pollard on Amazon
1 Giant Mind Podcast
1 Giant Mind App
In Part 2 of the Season 4 Finale, host Paula Jenkins counts down the top ten most downloaded episodes. Listen to short clips from Jonni Pollard, Stasia Savasuk, Jess Ekstrom, Sharon Prentice, and Renee Linell and hear the favorite solocasts, too.
To get links to all of the episodes, click here.
In Part 2 of the Season 4 Finale, host Paula Jenkins counts down the top ten most downloaded episodes. Listen to short clips from Jonni Pollard, Stasia Savasuk, Jess Ekstrom, Sharon Prentice, and Renee Linell and hear the favorite solocasts, too.
To get links to all of the episodes, click here.
Host Paula Jenkins takes a look at the top lessons, aha moments, and unexpected learnings of having been podcasting now for four years. There are tips, tricks, and lots of mindset and inspiration discussed in this Season 4 Finale.
Sister Michelle L’Allier is a Franciscan Sister from Minnesota, and I’ve had the absolute pleasure of getting to know her through leading retreats at San Damiano Retreat here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Sister Michelle and I got to know each other over the course of several years, when she was the adviser for the retreat team I led. She’s a person that I feel so very lucky to know; she’s deeply spiritual and also approachable, meeting each person she encounters where they are. I’m really excited to have her on as the last guest of Season 4.
One of the things that I love about our discussion is that we dive into the question of “how do I be myself?” It’s a question that embodies the inspiration, intention, and action that have been the focus of this season. For Sister Michelle, the question of being herself led to the Franciscan faith, and an understanding of love, and what divine love means. For myself, I think that being myself means saying yes to Joy, listening to it, looking for it, and living by it.
In this episode, Sister Michelle L’Allier and I talk about:
- Growing up in Minnesota
- Finding love
- The story of St Francis and Clare of Assisi
- Loving all parts of yourself
- How we can begin to break down walls and dismantle things like human trafficking
- Working through trauma is important for everyone, and how to do it
- How you can learn to talk about emotions even if it wasn’t something you did growing up
- How people bundle a wider range of emotions under a single word, and why that doesn’t serve them
- The gifts of joy and compassion and how they are needed by every person
- How to jumpstart your joy: letting go of the addiction that fuels perfectionism, finding connection and love, and living a life of adventure.
Resources
The Wisdom Jesus:Transforming Heart and Mind -- A New Perspective on Christ and His Message by Cynthia Bourgeault on Amazon
Eager to Love: The Alternative Way of Saint Francis by Richard Rohr
John Duns Scotus on Wikipedia
A Franciscan Moral Vision on Amazon
The Dark Side of the Light Chasers by Debbie Ford on Amazon
Catholic Means Universal: Integrating Spirituality and Religion by David Richo
Christy Tending is back for her sixth visit, and this time we’re talking about how our lives and businesses have recently evolved. It’s a living discussion, and one that started when we met to co-work at a cafe this summer and found ourselves diving into a conversation about how we’d recently had a very mindful and impactful experience of making decisions that have intrinsically changed who we are, and how we approach things.
In this episode, Christy Tending and I talk about:
- How things can reach a point where it’s no longer possible for you to continue doing what once worked for you
- How Christy quit drinking and the reasons why she chose to make that change
- The intrinsic connection between making decisions as a consumer, capitalism, and politics
- How I called bullshit on the idea that “the other shoe was about to drop” in my personal life and marriage
- How nagging is a choice, and how to stop nagging (zen moment: just stop)
- How you can create a business or an offering, or a podcast, by focusing on the things that seem easy to you
- What’s easy for you is not necessarily easy for anyone else (and how that leads you to discount the power of what comes easily)
- Why it’s important to talk about the role of racism, alcoholism, climate, and other pieces of our heritage that we don’t find acceptable with our children
- Why and how stating what your business stands for, and how it has evolved helps you find your true audience (and why that’s OK)
- How we evolve and become more comfortable with stating what words fit us (anarchist, Buddhist, etc)
- The roles of studentship and conversely, being a “guru”
- Studentship: What it looks like to be a student of your own process, and of learning new things as you go
- The possible role of self doubt and the inner critic when you complicate things
- The balance of really not knowing the outcome of any situation, and finding our way to be confident and share our expertise around something
- The wisdom of leaning on others in your community for knowledge and leadership, instead of acting like one person knows everything (which they don’t)
- The importance of having community in business
- We all have access to the divine any time we want it, and we all have access to politics and power whenever we want it
- That capitalism tells us that if we are good at something and it is lucrative: we’re supposed to do that thing until we drop
Resources
Christy Tending’s beautiful new website
Christy Tending’s podcast: Tending Your Life
Learn the 7 things to consider when you're looking to follow your joy, passion, or bliss in creating a business or coaching practice. You CAN build a business that feels easy, you just need to take some key things into consideration.
In this episode, I talk about:
- How to embrace letting things be easy
- Why you tend to add complexity to something
- The change in vibe and acceptance when you keep things simple and focused on what comes naturally to you
- How you can create a business or an offering, or a podcast, by focusing on the things that seem easy to you
- What’s easy for you is not necessarily easy for anyone else (and how that leads you to discount the power of what comes easily)
- Your zone of genius as explained by Gay Hendricks
- Don’t shy away from doing whatever feels easy for you
- The possible role of self doubt and the inner critic when you complicate things
- How to jumpstart your joy: petting puppies, listening more than you talk, and “eat the ice cream”
Resources
Join me at "She Podcasts Live" in Atlanta, October 11-13
How to Be Everything: A Guide For Those Who (Still) Don't Know What They Want To Be When They Grow Up by Emilie Wapnick on Amazon
The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to The Next Level by Gay Hendricks on Amazon
In this episode, I’m overjoyed to have EB Sanders joining me to talk about her work as a career coach, and how to design a career and a life that works for you. She has an amazing background of being a teacher, then a staffing and recruiting professional, and now she is a full time career coach helping creative people discover work that makes them happy. EB and I hit it off from the moment we said hello, and it was such a treat getting to pick her brain about how people design a career, as both a full time employee in a corporation, or as an entrepreneur.
In this episode, EB Sanders and I talk about:
- Her joys of creating a book about being strong as a little girl
- Working with creative people to help them get to the next level of whatever they are working on in their lives
- The various definitions of what it means to be creative, from engineers to CPAs, to those trained in the traditional arts
- Her road to becoming a business coach: from teaching, to staffing and recruiting, to coaching
- How people approach wanting to change careers, or look for something new in their job, and what else is usually going on in their lives
- Being creative is not being lazy
- Taking a nap can be a creative reboot
- Why keeping a salaried job may be the best choice for you
- Why being challenged at work is so key to your enjoyment
- How defined roles and responsibilities play a role in your job satisfaction
- Defining your values to help lead the way in discovering what you want and need from a job
- How to have the difficult conversations you need to have, to keep a healthy working environment alive (and why it’s not just up to management to create that environment)
- How to turn around a toxic working environment yourself
- How to structure a successful one on one meeting with your manager or supervisor
- Don’t shy away from doing whatever feels easy for you
- How to jumpstart your joy: petting puppies, listening more than you talk, and “eat the ice cream”
Resources
EB Sander’s Website
Use the code “FRIENDFAM” to get 15% off any of EB’s programs
EB Sanders on Instagram
The Artists Way by Julia Cameron on Amazon
This week on Jump Start Your Joy - I’m sharing all about how you can be both a planner, and allow room for creativity and spontaneity to play a role in your life or your business. As a planner at heart, I feel a sense of calm and “everything is right with the world” when I’m able to make a list, or, plan a trip.
What I’ve come to discover after doing a podcast for awhile is that the magic of any creative process happens, though, when you make the plan and then don’t cling to it too tightly. I struggled with doing that for a really long time - of planning, but not needing to control the outcome once I’d figured out the plan.
This week on the podcast I’m sharing how:
- You can make a plan, start working towards it, and leave yourself the space for creativity to take hold
- Set aside purposeful space to allow creativity to show up
- Become comfortable with releasing control of a situation
- Joy shows up when you leave room for it
- Artists Dates and how they can give you new ideas
- Trusting others can help you get your work done, and aid in further trusting yourself
- Rethinking what success looks like for you may shift how you approach what you “need” to do
Franny Burkey is a baker, shop co-owner, and pastry maker at the dreamy “Franny’s Cup and Saucer” in Point Arena, California. She whips up gorgeous cakes, delicious donuts, some amazing gluten free treats, all while working with her mom (and co-owner), Barbara. The shop itself feels like the embodiment of joy, with it’s sweet gifts, tasty treats, and loving atmosphere. When I started creating my list of who I wanted to interview for Jump Start Your Joy, Franny Burkey was definitely one of the first names I wrote down.
And, Franny herself is really one of the most joyous and endearing folks I’ve ever met, and so it was a real treat to get to chat with her for a bit about her childhood, her outlook on life (and business), and what she loves about her work.
In this interview, you’ll hear about:
– Franny’s childhood, growing up in Northern California, and having two parents in the food industry
– How Franny comes up with flavors for her delicious Friday donuts<
– How Franny and her Mom work together, and run the bakery
– The secret of how Franny gets up early, and her positive outlook on why it’s not “so bad”
– What she does to relax, including mixed martial arts and running
– How they’ve established what to buy for their shop in a small town, and what their ideal price point is
– How many wedding cakes Franny makes in a year, and why she loves working on wedding cakes
– My own wedding cake and how Franny designed the cake for our four year old son (with a robot, rabbit, Yoda, and Lightning McQueen)
Resources
Franny’s Cup and Saucer website
Franny’s Cup and Saucer Facebook page (check out the donuts here)
Sunset Eating Up the West Coast from Amazon (Franny has two recipes in this 2015 book)
In this solocast episode, I’m exploring the topic of finding joy in uncertain times. In the midst of the shifting world events, I’ve felt weighed down recently. In this episode, I’ll talk about how it takes real courage to follow a muse like Joy in hard times, and following joy, and love, and our own hearts is more important now, than ever before. I’ve spent a lot of time mulling over why joy has felt so awkward recently, and why it still beckons me on. And, I’ve found a lot of uplifting quotes and thoughts from others to share with you, too.
The six ways ways of finding joy in uncertain times I share in this episode are:
1. Define what’s true for you – regardless of what else may feel uncertain, what do you know is true for you, right now?
2. Take comfort that it’s perfectly OK (and natural) to grieve or feel sadness at the same time as you feel excitement or joy.
3. Take action: joy is an act of defiance and self care
4. Take action: caring for others spreads joy
5. Baby steps: Joy builds more joy. Little Bits of joy brought to life make room for more joy in your life
6. Look at joy in a new way: explore what joy looks like at the crossroads of whatever else you’re feeling
Resources
Helen McLaughlin’s delightful “Weekly Findings” Newsletter
Laura Simms post on “Finding Purpose in Uncertain Times”
Laura Simms in episode 34
Molly Larkin in episode 10 (where we talk about Byron Katie)
Jennifer Ching’s inspiring CAKEooh Blog
Jenny Mahan is a registered nurse and certified health and wellness coach, owner of Pine Creek Wellness, and a soap maker. Jenny works with people to help them reclaim their health in a way that invites them to reconnect with what delights and nourishes them. She lives on a farm in far northern Wisconsin and she is truly a multipassionate person - she’s also a singer and songwriter, author, jogger, and hammocker. It’s really a pleasure to have her on the podcast this week.
In this episode, Jenny Mahan and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy as a child: music, being outdoors, and making things with her hands
- The role Outdoor Education played in her life
- Ecological design, and how she has looked for a reliable way to support her family
- The nurturing and comforting properties of plants and animals
- Therapeutic Communication and being a home care nurse
- What motivates people to make changes in their health
- How to plan for the challenges of life
- How to jump start your joy: by keeping what really matters in mind and by “letting it rip,” or giving it your all
Resources
Jenny Mahan’s website
The 5 day “Nourish” mini course
Order soaps made by Jenny
If you're starting a podcast, or another creative pursuit, you'll come across three things: Fear once you've said yes to the thing, Commitment to yourself, and, you'll run into a Nellie Oleson Moment. Mine just happened to be with Nellie herself!
You can read the whole show notes here: www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/meangirl
Kelly Denithorne is an educator, transgender advocate, and the blogger behind “Unordinary Style.” Kelly started her blog in 2010, and began it as a place to explore with her love of style while she was exploring women’s fashion. Born as a male, Kelly tried on several different titles for herself, from transvestite, to cross dresser, and then to transgender non-binary. In the last year, Kelly has begun teaching in her middle school as a woman, and has started the process of transitioning.
The true inspiration that I see in Kelly is her dedication to being curious, and to “always be humble enough to learn.” As she and I spoke, it was clear that she is a powerful example of someone who is a lifelong educator, and learner. Inspired by another trans woman, Jessica Lynn, Kelly has started sharing her story so that other people can learn more about transgendered individuals, and to spread awareness.
In this episode, Kelly Denithorne and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy, hanging out with her sister
- Her experience of growing up as a male, and the confusion that she experienced around having unidentified gender variance
- Being a teacher, and transitioning from dressing as a male to dressing female this school year
- Seeking therapy with someone who specializes in gender variance
- The reactions of her students and parents to her presenting as a woman
- Her path to discovering her true self
- The role being a fashion blogger played in her journey
- Her inspiration in starting to take on speaking opportunities
- How to jumpstart your joy: learn to accept who you are and how you work with it, sharing your story, and always be humble enough to learn
Resources
Kelly Denithorne’s blog: Unordinary Style
How to Create Cleavage, as found on Kelly’s blog
Kelly (as Nadine Spirit) on Instagram
Jessica Lynn’s website
Podcasting is a great way to get your voice, mission, or story out there, and it's changed my life completely. In this week's episode I'm sharing 10+ reasons you should start a show of your own if you're a life coach, doctor, or healer.
- Increases the know / like / trust factor with people quickly
- It’s a flexible way to express your creativity and interests
- Podcasting establishes you as an expert, and can provide you with a way to explore skill sets if you are coming back into the workforce after having kids)
- It’s a hobby that can grow into more (or doesn’t have to)
- It sets you up to network like a champ and make connections in an authentic way
- Itss fun, and playful, which makes it easier to do
- You can naturally grow your network
- Learn new skills in your area of interest by asking your questions from experts
- It's a media outlet like no other (you're in the same bucket with huge publishers)
- A show gives you something to talk about in your marketing, giving you topics to include in newsletters and social media
- It’s still a growing market where women are under-represented
Podcasting is a great way to get your voice, mission, or story out there, and it's changed my life completely. In this week's episode I'm sharing 10+ reasons you should start a show of your own if you're a life coach, doctor, or healer.
- Increases the know / like / trust factor with people quickly
- It’s a flexible way to express your creativity and interests
- Podcasting establishes you as an expert, and can provide you with a way to explore skill sets if you are coming back into the workforce after having kids)
- It’s a hobby that can grow into more (or doesn’t have to)
- It sets you up to network like a champ and make connections in an authentic way
- Itss fun, and playful, which makes it easier to do
- You can naturally grow your network
- Learn new skills in your area of interest by asking your questions from experts
- It's a media outlet like no other (you're in the same bucket with huge publishers)
- A show gives you something to talk about in your marketing, giving you topics to include in newsletters and social media
- It’s still a growing market where women are under-represented
Zoha Abbas is the amazing powerhouse behind the site “Multidoer,” and she works with creative entrepreneurs to help them craft process in their businesses. Here’s what makes Zoha so interesting and special (and why she’s an entrepreneur after my own heart): she is a multipassionate herself, and has artfully meshed the worlds of creativity and organization together to create a unique business and offering.
In this interview, Zoha Abbas and I talk about:
- Being a Multipassionate and starting a business
- How Multipassionates can balance work and life
- The separate aspects of being creative: both in money, and in art
- How to define your purpose by looking at your Values
- The Three Anchors that will help you create your own structure and process
- How people are motivated by different forms of accountability, and how to figure out what kind of accountability is right for you
- Why you should be using Values as a cornerstone for your business
- How to set up boundaries
- How to jumpstart your joy: with boundaries, paying it forward with kindness, and remaining open and curious
Resources
The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris on Amazon
The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies Quiz
Zoha Abbas in Episode 92
Sally Hogshead’s Zone of Genius site
Zoha Abbas is the amazing powerhouse behind the site “Multidoer,” and she works with creative entrepreneurs to help them craft process in their businesses. Here’s what makes Zoha so interesting and special (and why she’s an entrepreneur after my own heart): she is a multipassionate herself, and has artfully meshed the worlds of creativity and organization together to create a unique business and offering.
In this interview, Zoha Abbas and I talk about:
- Being a Multipassionate and starting a business
- How Multipassionates can balance work and life
- The separate aspects of being creative: both in money, and in art
- How to define your purpose by looking at your Values
- The Three Anchors that will help you create your own structure and process
- How people are motivated by different forms of accountability, and how to figure out what kind of accountability is right for you
- Why you should be using Values as a cornerstone for your business
- How to set up boundaries
- How to jumpstart your joy: with boundaries, paying it forward with kindness, and remaining open and curious
Resources
The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris on Amazon
The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies Quiz
Zoha Abbas in Episode 92
Sally Hogshead’s Zone of Genius site
Mallory Wisong is a virtual assistant, certified life coach, and I have the great pleasure of both working with her, and, having her join me on this week’s episode. With a background doing admin work in the financial industry, Mal brings with her a unique blend of a knack for process and details, along with intuition, heart, courage, and the ability to hold the highest vision for those she works with. I think you will love getting to know her on this episode, and getting a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes with the show.
In this interview, Mallory Wisong and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy: reading books like “Dollhouse in the Attic”
- Her journey from the financial industry, to life coach training, to becoming a VA
- Taking responsibility for your life, and how that can be a life changing move
- Following your curiosity in being an entrepreneur, and remaining open to “what’s next”
- How to make room for magic in your work and life
- The art of creating process that works for you in your business
- Letting Values and Core Desired Feelings be a guide in running a business
- Why being joyful seems to cause some people to question one’s credibility
- Working environment, both from an internal / values perspective and an external environment (such as one’s office or workspace)
- Synchronicity in working, and how leaving space for the unexpected can lead to amazing things
- That the right people, for your business, are out there, and you just need the “crazy faith” that all will work out
Resources
Mallory Wisong’s blog and website
Mallory Wisong on Instagram
Tiffany Han’s “Crazy Faith” episode on Raise Your Hand Say Yes
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, by Elizabeth Gilbert on Amazon
When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron on Amazon
The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul by Danielle LaPorte on Amazon
Courageous Life Coaching Certification Program
Skip Prichard is the President and CEO of OCLC, award winning blogger and the author of The Book of Mistakes: 9 Secrets to Creating a Successful Future. As a lifelong student of what makes people successful, he’s interviewed over a thousand leaders, influencers, and notable people to talk to them about their lives. In the process of having so many conversations, Skip noticed that there were some similarities to the things that these successful people were doing, believing, saying, and living.
In this interview, Skip Prichard and I talk about:
- His childhood, and his early start as an entrepreneur, selling things at school to classmates in grade school
- Being a CEO of OCLC, a library tech company
- His creative process in crafting “The Book of Mistakes,” and how he created the format for it
- The first mistake, from “The Book of Mistakes;” Don’t work on someone else’s dream
- How to make your current reality or situation better for yourself
- Filtering the shoulds that come into our lives
- The impact of kindness on people
- The choice to “respond or react,” and how his wife’s battle with cancer exemplified a beautiful choice to respond and embody joy
- Entrepreneurship as a spiritual practice
- That people buy you before they buy your service, and the importance of knowing yourself well as a business owner
- Three ways to jump start your joy: daily gratitude, creating margin or space in your days, living your unique purpose
Resources
Skip Prichard’s blog and website
The Book of Mistakes by Skip Prichard on Amazon
This week, two big things hit me at once: the joy that comes naturally to children, and the Netflix special with Brene Brown, where she talks about the vulnerability that adults experience around joy, making it THE most vulnerable of emotions. What gives?
When did being joyful get to be hard? When did it become vulnerable to be joyful and experience joy?
If you’ve watched the Brene Brown special on Netflix (and you really should, it’s amazing), you’ll know that she shares that in her study of shame and vulnerability, she has discovered that people state that joy is the most vulnerable of all of the emotions.
“You can’t have joy without allowing yourself to be seen. Joy is the most vulnerable and terrifying of all human emotions. Vulnerability is the birthplace of joy. True belonging requires you to be who you are.” – Brene Brown
As children, joy is easy. It comes naturally. I know this first hand, from this week. Yes, my son and I had lots of experiences that were planned out and intended to be joyful, like visiting Mrs. Grossman’s sticker factory, and the Charles Schulz Museum. Even without planned events, I’ve seen how my son can make a game out of just about anything at any time, how he will still belly laugh in the back seat for no reason, and how he’ll befriend any animal or human he meets because for him, the world is still full of possibility. He has not yet built up the sludge of Stories that adults carry with them, that tell them to be careful, to act a certain way, to not trust, to be worried.
Resources
Brene Brown: the call to courage (link to:https://www.netflix.com/title/81010166 ) on Netflix
Kennolyn Camps (link to: https://www.kennolyncamps.com/ )
Paul Selig joins the show to talk about his journey to become a psychic and channel, and share about "The Book of Truth." Paul channels the guides in this episode, and they share the truth about the nature of joy in the universe.
In this episode, Paul and I talk about:
– his earliest sparks of joy in drama and theater
– his journey to becoming clairvoyant, clairsentient, and then telepathic and psychic
– how he built his practice as an intuitive
– how he channels, and receives the texts that he shares
– what it feels like to sit in channel with The Guides
– difference between channeling, and when he is in the role of a psychic
– if everyone has the ability to tap into channeling
– what The Guides have to say about the pursuit of joy in this life
– what it is like to honor the call of being a channel, and the impact it’s had on Paul’s life
– if The Guides were present in the time of Moses, based on the fact that the phrase “Here I am” is found in the Old Testament, and very similar to what The Guides share in The Book of Truth
– what balance looks, or doesn’t look like, for Paul
– how to jump start joy in your life
Resources
The Book of Truth by Paul Selig (on Amazon)
The Book of Mastery by Paul Selig (on Amazon)
Paul Selig’s Website
Link to the webinars and seminars run by Paul on his website
YouTube Video of an interview with Paul Selig on Waking Universe
Learn all about the basics of making taking care of yourself a priority, and why you might be having a hard time making that happen in your life. A great lookback lesson full of joyful ideas on self care.
I think it boils down to two things that influence decisions and when and how we eventually decide to take better care of ourselves.
- “If you don’t prioritize your life, someone else will. But if you are determined to prioritize your own life, you can.” – Greg McKeown
If you don’t set up and defend your own self care, something or someone else will. Some people call this setting boundaries (which is a topic for another post). If you don’t literally mark off time on your schedule, and take the mindful steps to practice self care, it will not happen on it’s own. You have to carve out the time to take care of yourself, or other things will always get in the way.
- “I’ve never seen any life transformation that didn’t begin with the person in question finally getting tired of their own bullshit.” – Liz Gilbert
And this really is part two of Greg McKoewn’s quote as well – There’s a breaking point in there somewhere around feeling frazzled and not addressing self care, and it’s often that breaking point that means you dig in and become determined to make a change. Sadly, it often only happens when we get to a breaking point, either burnt out from pushing too hard for too long, or, to the point where we are frustrated and can’t deal with ourselves anymore.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown (on Amazon)
Andrea Owen: Your KickAss Life episode 181 with Heather Chauvin
Liz Gilbert on Transformation
Stasia Savasuk is an amazing style coach, has an outstanding Tedx Talk, and is the founder of Stasia’s Style School. She’s joining me on the show, and I’m delighted to share this interview. We giggled our way through our discussion, and had a hilarious time talking about style, what lights us up, how to find what kinds of styles fit YOU, and, all about Stasia’s inspiring story of becoming an entrepreneur.
In this episode, Stasia and I talk about:
- Her early entrepreneurial work as a child, collecting and selling worms
- How she broke up with style, and wore very bland clothing for many years
- That one size fits all is bullshit
- How to discover style that works for you and reflects who you really are
- How to get in touch with who you really are
- What it looks like to belong to yourself
- How her differently abled child has taught her so much about inside out congruency
- Her thoughts on how to jumpstart your joy: asking yourself how you want to show up, don’t participate in body shaming, and getting outside
Resources
Stasia Savasuk’s website
Stasia on Instagram
Stasia’s Ted Talk on “Dressing for Confidence and Joy”: https://youtu.be/L5n3V0VYGNg
Liz Applegate is a coach, entrepreneur, founder of Tame Business Overwhelm, and host of Midlife Schmidlife. I feel so fortunate to call her my friend, to share a birthday with her! And to have her on the show this week to talk about how you can tame your business overwhelm, define your own process, and, get shit done.
In this episode, Liz and I talk about:
-Taking action, even when it feels overwhelming
-The wisdom of procrastination
-The difference between self care and numbing out (and how to know the know the difference)
-Dreading the first step of something, or getting started with something
-How to keep projects or work moving when you have a family or other priorities in your life
-Finding a happy medium in process and commitments
-Getting curious about your own process, and listening to your intuition about what works best for you
-How to tame business overwhelm
-Setting up habits to support your process and getting work done
Resources
The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin on Amazon
A Mastermind Shares Proven Ways to Feel More Confident In Your Work and Life - Episode 132
A Mastermind Group Shares About the First Two Years of Being an Entrepreneur with Guests Julie Houghton and Liz Applegate - Episode 100
Finding Connection and Support as an Entrepreneur with Liz Applegate and Julie Houghton - Episode 41
As an entrepreneur, setting boundaries and definitions around the work you do, and around your schedule and time are two of the kindest things you can do for yourself and your growing business. When you’re in charge of your own business and dependent on the income from that business, it becomes easy to get caught up in wanting to help “everyone,” and working all the time. I want to assure you that when you make it a point to define a niche of who you work with, and set some structure around when you work, you’ll find that it’s better for you, for your clients, and for your business.
Setting Boundaries is a Way of Being Kind to Yourself as An Entrepreneur
This week’s show is all about setting up the mindful steps to design a business you love, and the kind of business you dreamed about when you started out on your entrepreneurial journey. In Brene Brown’s book, Dare to Lead, she shares her thoughts about creating clarity as a leader.
“Over our years of researching and working together, we’ve learned something about clarity that has changed everything from the way we talk to each other to the way we negotiate with external partners. It’s simple but transformative: Clear is kind. Unclear is Unkind. I first heard this saying two decades ago in a 12-step meeting, but I was on slogan overload at the time and didn’t even think about it again until I saw the data about how most of us avoid clarity because we tell ourselves that we’re being kind, when what we’re actually doing is being unkind and unfair. Feeding people half-truths or bullshit to make them feel better (which is almost always about making ourselves feel more comfortable) is unkind. Not getting clear with colleagues about your expectations because it feels too hard, yet holding them accountable or blaming them for not delivering is unkind. Talking about about people instead of to them is unkind. This lesson has so wildly transformed my life that we live by it at home.”
What Dr. Brown says here about being a leader at work is one that you can layer onto your work as an entrepreneur, and it’s the departure point for this week’s show (which you can listen to above).
I’m asking the questions of:
How can you create clarity for your work, when you are your own boss?
How can you be kind to yourself?
How can you set up guidelines that are ultimately kind to you, and to your clients?
Dare to Lead by Brene Brown on Amazon
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron on Amazon
Time Tracking App: At Work for iPhone or Android
Fiverr for editing and other small entrepreneur support tasks
Episode 74: Helen McLaughlin on Curiosity as a Foundation for Living
Episode 112: Alexandra Franzen on Rejection, Defeat, and Terrible Bosses
Kate Bee is a former journalist, and the founder of The Sober School. I’m excited to have her on the show to talk about embracing sobriety, and how she works with women to create an alcohol free life they love. Growing up in England, Kate started drinking as a teen (where the legal drinking age for beer is 18 in a pub), and it was a habit that she continued well into her working life after college.
In this episode Kate Bee and I talk about:
- Her early love of writing, arts and crafts, blogging, and graphic design
- Letting go of habits that are holding you back
- The current culture of drinking, and how it is pervasive
- What to do when you worry that you are having too much alcohol, regularly
- Why people numb out, and why alcohol is a popular choice
- The difference between social drinking and alcoholism
- The many good changes that come out of making a shift to being sober
- Learning to parent and mother yourself; how to treat yourself with love
- Are you really feeling true emotions when you are drinking, or is everything numbed out a little
- Jumpstarting your joy by focusing on what you are good at, exercising instead of drinking, and self care in the form of turning off your email and leaving your desk
Resources
Kate Bee’s website, The Sober School
The Sober School course, starting April 2019
Kate Bee is a former journalist, and the founder of The Sober School. I’m excited to have her on the show to talk about embracing sobriety, and how she works with women to create an alcohol free life they love. Growing up in England, Kate started drinking as a teen (where the legal drinking age for beer is 18 in a pub), and it was a habit that she continued well into her working life after college.
In this episode Kate Bee and I talk about:
- Her early love of writing, arts and crafts, blogging, and graphic design
- Letting go of habits that are holding you back
- The current culture of drinking, and how it is pervasive
- What to do when you worry that you are having too much alcohol, regularly
- Why people numb out, and why alcohol is a popular choice
- The difference between social drinking and alcoholism
- The many good changes that come out of making a shift to being sober
- Learning to parent and mother yourself; how to treat yourself with love
- Are you really feeling true emotions when you are drinking, or is everything numbed out a little
- Jumpstarting your joy by focusing on what you are good at, exercising instead of drinking, and self care in the form of turning off your email and leaving your desk
Resources
Kate Bee’s website, The Sober School
The Sober School course, starting April 2019
Renee Linnell is the author of The Burn Zone, and a serial entrepreneur. At age 33 she woke up one morning and realized that she had very unintentionally joined a Buddhist cult. What had started as a quest for spiritual learning, and finding a place that felt like home to her turned out to be an intense group well versed in brainwashing, and converting others to bring in money to help support the larger cause.
In this episode Renee Linnell and I talk about:
- Her early love of solitude, dancing, being near the ocean, and reading
- Recognizing she is and was a HSP (highly sensitive person) and an introvert from an early age
- That all the people closest to her died by the time she was 15, leaving her with just her brother and alcoholic mother
- How she found herself drawn to a Buddhist teacher, after being a spiritual seeker for many years
- The moment of walking in to a meditation retreat and feeling like she was home
- The fine line of being deeply inspired, and aligned with a spiritual group AND being involved with a cult
- What’s brainwashing?
- How to get out of a “bad” situation like a cult and learn to trust yourself again
- The reincarnation of animals
- Getting in touch with your inner three year old (and what your inner child can teach you about self love)
- That we all have unique, beautiful gifts to share: be that an accountant or an artist
- Jumpstarting your joy by turning up the volume on what makes you weird or different, taking time to do the things you love, and giving back based on what you’re really good at
Resources
Renee Linnell’s website
The Burn Zone by Renee Linnell on Amazon
Francesca Hogi is a dating and career coach, 2 time Survivor contestant, and a lawyer. She and I met last year in Atlanta, and I loved her take on life and love, and very much wanted to get the chance to chat with her more about the crossroads of joy and relationships. More than anything, I love that the heart of her work is all about love: how to find it in relationships, and how to find love in the work you do. We had a fun and light filled discussion and I feel so grateful that she joined me this week.
In this episode Francesca Hogi and I talk about:
-Her early love of reading, and not knowing what she wanted to be for a career
-Working as a lawyer
-How she was interested early on in relationships and dating
-Attending the Match Making Institute
-How baby steps brought her to become a match maker, and later a coach
-Becoming an entrepreneur
-Advice for finding the right relationship
-Celebrating our “unconscious genius”
-Aiming for contentment and joy in a relationship, and looking at what you prioritize in finding a partner
-Jumpstarting your joy by talking to strangers, taking a social media break, and keeping a gratitude journal
Resources
Francesca Hogi’s website
Francesca on Instagram
Francesca on Twitter
Francesca’s free mastermind
Sharon Prentice is a psychotherapist, spiritual counselor, and author of the book Becoming Starlight: A Shared Death Journey from Darkness and Light. Her journey includes having lost her daughter, and her husband, and then having a shared death experience with him when he passed away. At the time, she experienced the presence of the divine, and was instilled with a sense that everything (including the passing of two people she loved so much) was just as it should be. I’m thrilled to have her on the podcast to talk about her shared death experience, and how that event shifted so many things in her life.
Inspired by the Immense Love She Felt in a Shared Death Experience
One of the things that Sharon shares in her book and on the show is that at the time of her husband’s passing, she was still incredibly angry and upset with God for the loss of her daughter several years prior. Stephanie was born, and passed away the same day, and Sharon fell into a “newfound love of darkness that I carried with me always. Not as an anchor but a new way of living in the world that I had come to know was cruel and unforgiving and God-less.”
This event was spiritually book ended for her when she lost her husband. In the moment that he passed, Sharon felt herself being transported into what she calls Starlight. Surrounded by love, presence, and divinity beyond words, she sensed she was whole, accepted and loved beyond comprehension by a God that she had turned away from.
“I felt more whole, more forgiven than I’d ever felt before. I now felt nothing except an all-encompassing love and compassion. My heart held no fear, no anger, no grief, no struggle. I was complete just as I was -- I lacked nothing. Deep down, I suppose I had always known this; I had just forgotten it for awhile.” (pg 123)
In our interview, Sharon talks about his even more. What strikes me, and why I find this inspiring is that this love and compassion is something that the Divine holds for each of us. It’s not held for just a few. When I think about this radical acceptance, I wonder what would be possible for myself if I accepted the abundance, love, and compassion that is meant for me?
In this episode Sharon Prentice and I talk about:
-Her early childhood at Cape Cod, dancing and listening to music
-The spiritual nature of the ocean and why it draws us both in
-Sharon’s work with the terminally ill, and why she feels it’s her life’s work
-The spiritual nature, and root of, all therapy work
-Her Shared Death Experience, and how it felt like coming home
-Jesus and my favorite passage in the Bible (Father, Father, Why have you forsaken me?”
-Centering Prayer and meditation
-Her husband Steve’s last breath, and how it provided an entrance into a Shared Death Experience for her
-How to jumpstart your joy: wake up with a smile, tell the people in your life you love them, and focused prayer
Resources
Becoming Starlight: A Shared Death Journey from Darkness to Light by Sharon Prentice on Amazon
Sharon Prentice’s Website
Sharon Prentice PhD’s Facebook page
Other resources for Grief, Death, and Dying:
Episode 168: Jonni Pollard on How to Awaken to The Truth of Who You Are
Episode 127: Julia Samuel on Grief Works, and the Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving
Episode 141: Debbie Augenthaler on Grief, Trauma, and Healing: You Are Not Alone
Here are the top 8 reasons why, if I could choose to be any spaceship in the galaxy, I'd choose to be the Millennium Falcon:
-
The Falcon is a named character in the movies, with personality, and a story arc.
-
The Millennium Falcon is fast, or, is it really just super smart?
-
This ship is part of something much bigger than itself.
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The Millennium Falcon is a symbol of hope.
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The Falcon is always waiting for the right people, and it’s a great get away vehicle.
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The Falcon is a connector between main characters, and they have a connection to it.
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The Millennium Falcon is a home.
Resources
Episode 3: Matthew Wood (The Voice of General Grievous in Star Wars) on Crafting Joy in the Crossfade
Episode 59: Finding Joy in “Star Wars in the Yard” with Russell Hurst
The Ways the Millennium Falcon Were Different in “Solo: A Star Wars Story”
L3-37's Story Changes Everything We Knew About the Millennium Falcon
Solo: A Star Wars Story on Wikipedia
Solo: A Star Wars Story Has Franchise's First Main Female Droid
Will Star Wars 9 Blow Up the Millennium Falcon?
There are so many ways that choice (and your mindset on choice) impacts the level of joy in your life. This week on the podcast, I’m exploring the topic of choice with these five great angles:
- You are always in choice
- Are choosing love, or choosing fear when you make a decision?
- Build in the mindfulness of “awareness, choice, action”
- Choose graciousness and spaciousness and allow others the room to do the same
- Choose to surround yourself with things that inspire you and uplift you
Resources
Oprah’s interview with Maya Angelou from December, 2000
Michelle Obama on “When they go low, we go high”
Women, Food, and God: An Unexpected Path to Almost Everything by Geneen Roth on Amazon
The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo on Amazon
Wayne Dyer on Choosing Love or Fear
Gemma Hartley is the author of” Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward,” and I’m thrilled to have her on the podcast to talk about emotional labor. Defined as “the invisible work women do to keep people around them happy,” emotional labor is a topic that doesn’t get talked about a lot, and often takes a toll on women and relationships. I’m excited that Gemma has opened the door for this discussion by addressing the topic, and offering thoughts on ways to move forward.
Resources
Gemma Hartley’s Website
Gemma Hartley’s original article “Women aren’t Nags, we’re just Fed Up” on Harpers Bazaar
Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward by Gemma Hartley on Amazon
This week on the show, I’m taking a look at how I grew my business while working a 9 to 5 job. I’ll walk you through the inspiration, intention, and actions I took, and share reflections on how you can use these same tips to start or grow your own business.
See all of the show notes on the website, here:
http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2019/01/how-to-start-a-business-when-you-have-a-9-to-5-job
Resources
Do a Ten in Three.
The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Even though we are a couple of weeks in to 2019, it’s a great time to take a few minutes and map out your plans. I’m a big fan of sitting down for an hour or so and getting my thoughts for the year out on paper. I started doing something I call the “Ten in Three” in 2014, and in looking back at that first list, it’s fascinating to see that I have completed all but one thing (getting PMP certified, #2).
Set the Intention for your Year
You might feel, like I know have in the past, like life is moving fast and you don’t have time to really stop and soak in what’s going on. You might feel like you’re on a trajectory with your career that now feels just OK, but you know you want something more than what you’re currently doing. Or, maybe you have not stopped to think about what it is that you want to do with your one “wild and precious life” since college, and feel a bit lost.
The beauty about taking an hour or so to get your thoughts in order about what you truly want to accomplish (instead of being in a reactive mode), is that it provides you with a little time to put some mindfulness and intention around your year.
Set a timer for 15 minutes and get out a blank pieces of paper or journal page and work through these questions to sort through your intentions - try to keep the answers in a list or bullet format so you can easily see the key ideas that start to emerge during this process.
Here are some questions to ask yourself as you start this process:
- What are the big things you want to create this year?
- What are the big things you want to bring into your life, if you take away the current limitations you may feel are holding you back?
- If you could map out anything you wanted for life, what would it look like? If nothing was off the table, what would you do, and who would you be?
- What are some ideas that have been coming back to you, time after time, that you’ve pushed aside because they are not “practical,” or don’t fit in your life right now?
Choose the Things You’ll Focus On
The next step, after you’ve spent the time doing a highly productive brain dump, let’s get sorting through those thoughts.
Look over your list, and taking a moment with each item you’ve written, let the idea settle into your heart. There may be some of those items on your list that are “maybe some day” type items, and others that feel like they resonate with your soul.
Take a highlighter or colored pen, and mark the ideas that feel like the ones closest to the things you truly want to focus on.
Set Your Ten in Three
Once you’ve sorted through the ideas, it’s likely that there are a handful that are bubbling up as main ideas you want to bring to life. Take a look and see what you’ve got, and narrow this list down to the top ten that you want to bring into reality.
My process has been that I pick ten items that I want to complete, and spread them across three years. There’s a lot of pressure online to “do all the things,” and that leads to being totally overwhelmed. Once you’ve narrowed it down to three big goals for a year, you’ve limited the the things that will get your attention, and increased the likelihood each one will get completed. I’m also a big fan of this method over something like a Bucket List because it gives you focus, instead of being a big long list hanging out there that feels too long to ever finish.
You can download the fancy downloadable, printable sheet to remind you of your Ten in Three by clicking here.
Two notes on the Ten in Three: while the instructions here are simple, this process can be one that takes a couple of days. Allow yourself the time and space to do this in a way that feels right for you. Make the commitment to yourself to finish this once you’ve started.
The other note that I like to point out to people about the Ten in Three is to be kind to yourself if, say, midyear, you realize you don’t want to do one of the things you added. It’s OK to change your list, depending on what life throws at you. The only thing I haven’t finished on my list is #2, and it was an intentional decision for me to not pursue getting a PMP certificate. You can change your mind, too.
Resources:
Download your Free Printable Ten in Three sheet here
A Better Approach to A Bucket List, episode 117
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Jess Ekstrom is the energetic CEO and founder of Headbands of Hope, and the developer of the Mic Drop Workshop. I had the pleasure of meeting Jess in Atlanta last year, and knew from the moment she shared the mission of her company (and it only further made me love her when she quoted Will Ferrell) that I wanted to talk to her more, and to have her on the show.
Jess’ story of creating Headbands of Hope is one that resonates on all three of the Inspiration, Intention, and Action tenets that have been a part of Season 4 on Jump Start Your Joy. In her time working with the Make a Wish Foundation, she noticed that children didn’t like to wear a wig after having gone through chemo, and that many of the little girls preferred to wear a headband instead. Inspired by seeing an unmet need (there was no central place offering headbands for kids), Jess created Headbands of Hope with a “buy one, donate one” business model similar to Toms Shoes, and created a simple and impactful business that’s brought hope to children in every children’s hospital in the US.
It was Jess’ intention to make an impact through a simple but powerful way - to brighten the day and provide a boost of confidence to children going through chemo. And it was her own action to bring this idea to life that now feeds back to the inspiration and support of others.
Jess Ekstrom and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy: food, and going on a scavenger hunt for a new skateboard that had her name spray painted on it
- How she started Headbands of Hope
- The insights she learned working for Make a Wish, and having met the owner of Toms shoes as she was creating her company
- Sometimes the things that are most earth shattering and game changing are the simplest
- How to get to inspiration from frustration
- Her Mic Drop workshop, and how it fills the need of having more women speakers at conferences and conventions
- Why we both love Will Ferrell and how we feel that he creates connection with others through humor
- What schools and parents can do to provide children with a more well rounded point of view and better life skills
- Her upcoming book, which is due out in November 2019
- How to jump start joy in your life: unplug: remove yourself from the screen, play more, and develop a writing habit
Resources
Jess Ekstrom’s Headbands of Hope website
Jess Ekstrom’s Mic Drop Workshop website
Jonni Pollard is a meditation and wisdom teacher, with his teachings stemming from the Vedic tradition. He’s the author of "The Golden Sequence," co-founder of the 1 Giant Mind Learn Meditation course and the 1 Giant Mind Teacher Training Academy. As a true multipassionate, he’s also been an actor, and an avid skateboarder and runner. Jonni now works with corporations, individuals and at events teaching others how to “get into the highest state of love to connect to our humanity.”
The Inspiration of the Four Golden Insights
I truly enjoyed getting to speak with Jonni, and felt myself sinking into the conversation in a deep way. One of the most inspirational parts of the discussion for me was when we walked through the Four Golden Insights, which are the pillars for the work Jonni does.
- Life is Sacred
- Love is our Nature - we serve, nature, and find connection
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Wisdom is our Power - Jonni talks about finding the intelligence of love, and reconciling the appearance of resistance and opposites.
-
We also talked about “embodied leadership power, which equals the ability to influence the environment around us.”
-
Wisdom can enliven and awaken the truth of who we are
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Fulfillment is our Purpose - we find our purpose by fully understanding who we are
Jonni Pollard and I talk about:
- His earliest sparks of joy as a child - playing with other kids, playing games, and any kind of games where he could evolve and find excitement
- Being a multipassionate, where he reflected that he felt that the many different things he enjoys in his life are all just different ways that his soul and purpose is revealing itself
- The filters that we use from the outside looking in, and how it changes the way we see ourselves
- The desire of creative beings to become expressive
- Our conditioning as children and the pervasive ideology that we learn as young people
- How adopting and conforming to social ideals causes immense suffering
- The four golden insights that set the pillars for the Golden Sequence
- What happens when energy does not flow naturally
- The dissonance that fear creates
- Why we need to connect to our purpose and our humanity
- Jonni’s thoughts How to Jump Start Your Joy: wake up and connect to the world around you, meditate for success and to affirm your humanity, and to show your best connected self to whomever you first have contact with in the morning
Resources
Jonni Pollard’s website
The Golden Sequence by Jonni Pollard on Amazon
1 Giant Mind Podcast
1 Giant Mind App
As entrepreneurs and solo-prenuers, let's look at a new definition of abundance that makes room for the lives we want to lead, the people we want to reach, and the we way want to show up in this world. Learn how on this final episode of 2108.
This week on the show, Andrea Owen returns for a second visit and this conversation is, hands down, the hardest I’ve laughed in quite some time. Andrea is a coach, author of two books (52 Ways to Live a Kick Ass Life and How to Stop Feeling Like Shit), and she’s the host of the amazing “Your Kick Ass Life” podcast. She and I talk about how to be taken seriously even when you’re not a serious person.
As an entrepreneur, and a woman out doing business in the world, I am betting that this episode will resonate with you strongly. It’s getting at the heart of some deep seated conditioning, and calling into question something my own personal inner critic is pretty tied to: as a person who does serious work (life coaching, business coaching and project management all require an understanding of deep emotional or business acumen), I often worry that if I present my light heartedness in front of others, my ability to be serious and taken as a credible intelligent person will be dismissed.
What I love is that in this chat, Andrea calls bullshit on this, for both of us. She says it’s “inner critic bullshit” that’s just getting in the way of our being our true selves. And, I agree with her.
I also love that this discussion goes meta and self-reflective on itself, as we start out talking about how we’re both silly people at heart, and how as humorous people we both worry that we can’t ALSO be serious. After laughing our butts off (you’ll have to listen because it is funny, I laughed out loud when I was editing this episode), we then dive into deep and serious territory. We talk about the death of her father, about numbing out, about PTSD, about the serious shit.
In other words, the conversation itself shows us that yes, you can be funny, and serious all in the same 45 minutes.
Inspiration and Intention:
Where are you undermining or downplaying your own natural way of being because you feel like they are not “acceptable” to others?
How can you look at those traits as a gift, using a different lens? Who are some other people you can identify (and maybe even look up to) that share those traits with the world?
In this episode, Andrea Owen and I talk about:
- Body suits and blazers (and we have a good laugh about this)
- How humor can be a way of connecting with others
- That humor can be healing
- Rumbling with your emotions
- What happens when we label emotions as good or bad, instead of just letting them be
- Surrendering to emotions
- When it’s time to find help with emotions that are overwhelming
- How to interact with unusual relatives at a holiday party
- Body suits and blazers (yes, again)
Resources
Your Comfort Zone: A Rant (Episode 257 on Your KickAss Life)
Menudo on Silver Spoons
Andrea Owen on Episode 115 of Jump Start Your Joy
How to Stop Feeling Like Shit by Andrea Owen (on Amazon)
52 Ways to Live a KickAss Life by Andrea Owen (on Amazon) - her first book
Your Kickass Life - Andrea's website
A project manager with 20 years of experience, Paula breaks down how to take the basics of project management & apply the skills and toolset to your small business as an entrepreneur. A great primer in running a project & insights on what to look
Self Advocate, activist, mentor and coach, Christy Tending joins the show with a fresh take on leaning into our uniqueness, owning our imperfections, and waking up to our own freedom.
Sarah Von Bargen of Yes and Yes joins Paula to talk about how to build joyful, intentional habits, how to question the messages in the world around us, and how you can craft your most mindful and meaningful life.
Are you having anxiety about the family Thanksgiving dinner, your spouse's company party, or spending the holidays with your inlaws? In this episode, Paula talks about how to create an intentionally joyfilled holiday season.
Welcome to Season 4! This week on the show, I’m doing a solocast to kick off Season 4 and taking a look at the direction the show will be headed this season.
This week on the show I’m talking about:
– the three steps in the process of going after your dreams: inspiration, intention, and action
– why you need to build in time for rest and activity
– the bookends of emotions
– hanging on to the “anchor” of good times, even when you’re faced with difficult times
– my amazing time on the NKOTB Cruise X in 2018
– how people around us can inspire us and remind us of who we are and what’s important to us
Resources
8 Great Reasons to Start a Podcast / Episode 146
Kate Swaboda – “Courage When You Hate Your Job” on her Your Courageous Life Podcast
New Kids on the Block Cruise recap from 2017
Books
Art of War by Steven Pressfield
Lunar Abundance by Ezzie Spencer
See more pictures from NKOTB Cruise X 2018 on my Instagram Feed.
Kate Swoboda joins the show to talk about her book, The Courage Habit, and we talk about how to develop new habits, and stop doing the things that no longer serve you.
In this episode, Kate Swoboda and I talk about:
- Her new book, The Courage Habit
- Her road to becoming a published author, along with her advice to anyone wishing to get a book published (keep trying)
- How she proposed a new angle on the book, after the proposal was accepted
- How to start practicing courage based behaviors and get “unstuck”
- Experiencing fear, and practicing mindfulness to recognize that you’re experiencing fear, while also stepping back to observe your own “stress responses”
- The Inner Critic, and the ways that the Inner Critic counteracts courage:
o Perfectionism
o People Pleasing
o Sabotage
o Pessimism - That we need to work with (instead of against) the Inner Critic, by meeting him/her with unconditional love and acceptance
- The role of community in developing courage
- The question of “what if courage could be easy.”
Resources
The Courage Habit: How to Accept Your Fears, Release the Past, and Live Your Courageous Life by Kate Swoboda on Amazon
Courageous Living Coach Certification – CLCC
Kate Swoboda’s site: Your Courageous Life
Kate Swoboda on past Jump Start Your Joy episodes:
Kate Swoboda on “Courage as a Path to Healing (Episode 8, Season 1)
The Crossroads of Courage and Creating Habits with guest Kate Courageous (Episode 80, Season 2)
Season Two Finale: A Roundtable on Joy, Finding Inspiration, and Self Care in Difficult Times (Episode 101, Season 2)
Emily Ann Peterson joins to share about how to follow your heart, tap into "Bare Naked Bravery," and nourish and nurture yourself while living with an illness.
What we talk about in this episode:
- Her early joy of music as a child, and taking inspiration from pieces like “Night on Bald Mountain.”
- How Rob Bell talks about grief – that as a society we have difficulty with it being wide, and deep, and we are uncomfortable with grief being a public emotion
- That music often expresses emotions for us the way that words can not
- The three main ways to express bravery: vulnerability, creativity / imagination, and improvisation
- How having defiant expectations can impact the outcome of anything you face
- The art of letting go as an act of faith
- Her community and podcast at Bare Naked Bravery
- Her new book of the same name
- Resistance as a necessary part of life
- Ways to jump start your joy: writing, finding community, and finding connection
Resources:
Emily Ann Peterson’s website
Bare Naked Bravery (the book) by Emily Ann Peterson (pre-order the bravery bundle)
Bare Naked Bravery the podcast
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (on Amazon)
Christy Tending joins the show to talk about how to go beyond self care, and to work with self advocacy. Learn how to take the steps to get what you need to nurture and nourish yourself and live a life you love.
Learn all about how to cope with grief and make space for what you need during times of loss in this interview with Debbie Augenthaler. This episode is part of the Nourish & Nurture series.
Host Paula Jenkins is counting down the top 10 most downloaded episodes on Jump Start Your Joy, Season 3. From coaches, to musicians, to authors and several solocasts, get a feel for the show and YOUR most favorite guests.
Who will be #1? Tune in to find out!
Also, take the survey about Season 3 by clicking here.
Joy and Grief are two parts of our human experience. Join Paula as she revisits the most impactful and joyful discussions of Season 3, and learn about mindfulness, making space for joy, and embracing all of your emotions with three important guests.
As Season 3 comes to a close, and Fall is just around the corner, I'm finding that I'm ready to slow down. Our summer was purposefully jam packed: We visited England, we went on a family trip to San Diego, and I traveled to Atlanta for a conference. It was fun, it was exciting, and it was exhausting. As the seasons change, I'm longing for a slower pace and an I'm finding myself tired of the busy-ness. In this week's episode, I'm looking back at the first episode of Season 3, which was all about the steps to slowing down and savoring joy.
Are you feeling the same way? With returning to school, and winding down from summer, do you feel the shift in perspective?
Somewhere in the midst of traveling, creating, connecting, loving, and following my heart, I think I got wrapped up in the busy-ness and distraction of other stuff, too. Promoting the show. Finding the perfect stock image and the quote to go with it. Staying up too late as I danced with perfectionism. Joy was getting intertangled with shoulds and being perfect and it got heavy.
What I needed to do was re-set my perspective.
Have you read the book, "Chasing Slow," by Erin Loechner? She says “It takes work to change your perspective. Work that is not easily done when you’re looking everywhere else.”
In the midst of sitting with a slower pace, and getting re-acquainted with joy, I found that these six steps are a great foundation for slowing down and saving joy:
1. Agree to slow down. Give yourself space.
2. Take a good hard look at the thing that is no longer bringing you the joy it once did, and take note of why.
3. Reflect on what about this thing used to bring you joy. Write it down.
4. Ask yourself what would make this thing joyful again?
5. If a break from the thing sounds good, take it, and let it be a true break. Notice what you miss about the thing if anything.
6. Check back in after a month or so and see if you want to return to doing the thing. If so, make your plan. If not, let it go.
Resources:
The book list from Episode 101: (includes affiliate links)
Paula recommends:The Spy: A Novel of Mata Hari by Paulo Coehlo
Laura recommends: Commonwealth: A Novel by Ann Patchett
Kate recommends: The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
Deb recommends: White Hot Truth by Danielle LaPorte
Michelle recommends: Chasing Slow by Erin Loechner OR Tim Gunn's Guide to Style
Listen to Episode 101, where Michelle shares about Erin Loechner's book.
This week on the show, let’s talk about some great ways to discover the right time to follow your dreams.
How to discover the right time to follow your dreams:
1. Have Patience
Sometimes, we think we are ready before we are.
What if, behind the scenes, the universe is making that path smooth for you?
What if there is something else you need to learn before you are ready for the next step?
Tune in to the podcast to hear a lot more on this.
2. Trust that the universe is looking out for you
I like to tell a story about my son, when he was 18 months old. He used to be obsessed with extension cords, wanting to chew on them if he found them in the house. We baby-proofed to make sure he didn’t harm himself, and I learned a lot about the human spirit in the process.
There have been plenty of times when I have been upset because I didn’t get what I wanted. Plenty of times when I was obsessed with something, and yet it was kept just out of my reach no matter how hard I tried to get to it.
Is it possible that the universe is looking out for you and me, and that there are things that are kept an arm’s length from us for our own best interest?
3. Try a different angle
If you’ve come up against something that feels impassable, Is there another way you can approach your work, or the dream you’re working on?
Could you begin taking action on a different portion of the work related to your dream?
Action, in the way of taking the next step toward the dream you are working on, is important. If you’ve hit a place where you’re not getting traction on one part of your work, it may be valuable to switch up your approach.
You’ll learn new things, and keep your momentum going.
Resources:
Want to hear more from my friend Christy Tending?
Want to learn more about Byron Katie? Tune in to Mollie Larkin
Loving What Is by Byron Katie on Audible
The Work by Byron Katie
Feeling stuck and like you have no momentum sucks. The truth is you will more than likely feel stuck at some point in your life, whether that be in your business or around personal growth, or at a full time job. I often feel it, and find myself questioning if I’m “on the right path,” even four years into the podcast. This week on the podcast, I’m sharing about how I had an aha moment around “How to get Unstuck.”
At a recent conference, I attended a break-out session entitled “How to get Unstuck in Your Business.” My aha moment did not come from the speakers or the info that was being shared in the room, and it’s something I want to share with you, this week on the show.
I went into that room thinking that to be successful or to be well received or to be on the “right” path that I should be further along than I currently am. That I needed to have it all figured out, and that somehow my current situation wasn’t enough.
And then I started thinking. I like having time with my son, while he’s seven. I like having some space to breathe and to think. I love the clients I work with and I love the work I do.
And while it may seem super simple, or overly obvious, and very zen, I decided to ask my own intuition a few questions, and answer these questions in the form of a letter (you can learn more about it from Jess Lively.)
Instead of focusing on this idea that I’m stuck, or if you’re listening, instead of focusing on the idea that YOU are stuck… what if we stop fighting reality of what is, and accept that we are OK right now, just the way you and I are?
What if we change the Story in our head, or, the narrative, from “I’m not far enough along” to “I’m enough right where I am”??
What if instead of “I’m not far enough along,” I say “I’m learning and in the process, and I’m becoming exactly who I dream of being”??
As I was writing this letter, I found my intuition asking me if I was really stuck. I want to share this with you because I feel like it may be helpful for someone out there. Here’s what I wrote:
“There’s wisdom in staying put. In being OK with what is, right this moment. You want more time. The only fear based statement here is the false belief that things will not work out for you. Let that go. Your son is only going to be 7 once, and you want more time with him. This time you have now, it is a blessing.
About your business, there’s only one you. That’s the thing to focus on, and the thing to sell the shit out of. Because there is only one you and your services are valuable. You absolutely won’t find another client you love if you don’t put yourself out there. And there is wisdom in slowing down and letting this time be what it is.”
Here ere are four other ways to get unstuck.
1. Journal it out
Two Questions to Journal On:
So I’ll put that question back out to you. What is the truth of this time for you?
If you are feeling stuck, is it true that you are actually stuck?
2. Have Faith that you are just where you should be, right this second.
One of my mentors, Sister Michelle, used to teach us that “the right people will come, at the right moment, and with the right information.”
What happens if you shift how you view your current situation, and have the faith in the truth that things are happening, at the right time?
3. Do ‘The Work’
One of my favorite ways to work through what Byron Katie calls “painful thoughts” is to go through the steps of doing “The Work.” When you think of the thing or situation that is making you feel stuck, stop and ask yourself:
is it true?
And then you ask, is it really true?
Who am I when I believe this thought?
Who would I be without this thought?
You can learn more about this one at Byron Katie’s site.
4. Take Action and Turn up the Crossfade
Action is the quickest and most direct way to get unstuck. While you may currently be feeling stuck, I’m betting you have taken some steps, somewhere along the way, to start working towards your dream (or business, or personal growth).
One of my past guests, Matt Wood - a sound engineer for Skywalker sound, talked about how having the patience for things is a lot like turning up the cross fade in our life. He explained that the thing that you’re working on starts out at an almost un-perceivable level in your life. You know it’s there but you can’t quite hear it. Then, as time goes on, that thing gets more perceivable in your life. Like music in a cross fade, that thing gets louder, and then you can hear the melody of that thing in your life.
Before long, the crossfade has happened, and whatever dream or thing you’ve been following is now present, really and truly present in your life.
If you want to learn more about this, I have some resources for you:
Want to hear more about Byron Katie? Tune in to Molly Larkin in Episode 10.
More on turning up the crossfade? Matthew Wood in Episode 3.
Discover your accountability type via Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies
Listen to "Loving What Is" by Byron Katie on Audible
A Thousand Words for Joy by Byron Katie on Amazon
Playing Big by Tara Mohr on Amazon
The Work by Byron Katie
Feeling stuck and like you have no momentum sucks. The truth is you will more than likely feel stuck at some point in your life, whether that be in your business or around personal growth, or at a full time job. I often feel it, and find myself questioning if I’m “on the right path,” even four years into the podcast. This week on the podcast, I’m sharing about how I had an aha moment around “How to get Unstuck.”
At a recent conference, I attended a break-out session entitled “How to get Unstuck in Your Business.” My aha moment did not come from the speakers or the info that was being shared in the room, and it’s something I want to share with you, this week on the show.
I went into that room thinking that to be successful or to be well received or to be on the “right” path that I should be further along than I currently am. That I needed to have it all figured out, and that somehow my current situation wasn’t enough.
And then I started thinking. I like having time with my son, while he’s seven. I like having some space to breathe and to think. I love the clients I work with and I love the work I do.
And while it may seem super simple, or overly obvious, and very zen, I decided to ask my own intuition a few questions, and answer these questions in the form of a letter (you can learn more about it from Jess Lively.)
Instead of focusing on this idea that I’m stuck, or if you’re listening, instead of focusing on the idea that YOU are stuck… what if we stop fighting reality of what is, and accept that we are OK right now, just the way you and I are?
What if we change the Story in our head, or, the narrative, from “I’m not far enough along” to “I’m enough right where I am”??
What if instead of “I’m not far enough along,” I say “I’m learning and in the process, and I’m becoming exactly who I dream of being”??
As I was writing this letter, I found my intuition asking me if I was really stuck. I want to share this with you because I feel like it may be helpful for someone out there. Here’s what I wrote:
“There’s wisdom in staying put. In being OK with what is, right this moment. You want more time. The only fear based statement here is the false belief that things will not work out for you. Let that go. Your son is only going to be 7 once, and you want more time with him. This time you have now, it is a blessing.
About your business, there’s only one you. That’s the thing to focus on, and the thing to sell the shit out of. Because there is only one you and your services are valuable. You absolutely won’t find another client you love if you don’t put yourself out there. And there is wisdom in slowing down and letting this time be what it is.”
Here ere are four other ways to get unstuck.
1. Journal it out
Two Questions to Journal On:
So I’ll put that question back out to you. What is the truth of this time for you?
If you are feeling stuck, is it true that you are actually stuck?
2. Have Faith that you are just where you should be, right this second.
One of my mentors, Sister Michelle, used to teach us that “the right people will come, at the right moment, and with the right information.”
What happens if you shift how you view your current situation, and have the faith in the truth that things are happening, at the right time?
3. Do ‘The Work’
One of my favorite ways to work through what Byron Katie calls “painful thoughts” is to go through the steps of doing “The Work.” When you think of the thing or situation that is making you feel stuck, stop and ask yourself:
is it true?
And then you ask, is it really true?
Who am I when I believe this thought?
Who would I be without this thought?
You can learn more about this one at Byron Katie’s site.
4. Take Action and Turn up the Crossfade
Action is the quickest and most direct way to get unstuck. While you may currently be feeling stuck, I’m betting you have taken some steps, somewhere along the way, to start working towards your dream (or business, or personal growth).
One of my past guests, Matt Wood - a sound engineer for Skywalker sound, talked about how having the patience for things is a lot like turning up the cross fade in our life. He explained that the thing that you’re working on starts out at an almost un-perceivable level in your life. You know it’s there but you can’t quite hear it. Then, as time goes on, that thing gets more perceivable in your life. Like music in a cross fade, that thing gets louder, and then you can hear the melody of that thing in your life.
Before long, the crossfade has happened, and whatever dream or thing you’ve been following is now present, really and truly present in your life.
If you want to learn more about this, I have some resources for you:
Want to hear more about Byron Katie? Tune in to Molly Larkin in Episode 10.
More on turning up the crossfade? Matthew Wood in Episode 3.
Discover your accountability type via Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies
Listen to "Loving What Is" by Byron Katie on Audible
A Thousand Words for Joy by Byron Katie on Amazon
Playing Big by Tara Mohr on Amazon
The Work by Byron Katie
In this week's solocast, I'm sharing about the profound impact the book "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" by Greg Mckeown has had on my life. As a project manager and a life coach, I love that this book is both pragmatic on one level, and very philosophical and inspirational on the other. The two key areas that I focus on in this week's show are:
- Doing less, but better - doing the essential few instead of the trivial many
- Building in room for down time
I'm sharing about how I've been focusing on doing less, but better, and focusing on the essential few instead of the trivial many.
Resources
Purchase "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" by Greg Mckeown on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MkaQRy
Greg McKeown’s speech at Google Talks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQKrt1-IDaE
Logan Nickleson in Episode 27 and “Creative Minimalism”: http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2016/03/episode-27-logan-nickleson-on-creating-music-for-makers/
Michelle Ward on the Friendpreneur Series in Episode on “Right Sizing the Effort”: http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2018/04/michelle-ward-ten-years-entrepreneur/
As the host of Mom is in Control, and the amazing “Dying to be a Good Mother” Tedtalk, I’m thrilled to have Heather Chauvin joining me this week to talk all about abundance, ambition, time management, and how she found her way to a career she loves after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Heather is a true inspiration, and I’m delighted to feature her as the last guest for Season 3.
In this episode, Heather and I talk about:
- Her path from working as a social worker to becoming a coach
- How researching mindfulness and meditation for her son impacted her life
- Living as an introvert disguised as an extrovert
- Working with parents who feel overwhelmed and without resources
- How to get in touch with your core desired feelings, and why you need to
- How to make a plan and take action on how you want to feel in your life
- Parenting from the green zone
- Being a flexible parent
- Her podcast, Mom is in Control
- How to jump start your joy: giving back and being in service to others, Asking what you want, what you crave, and what you desire
Resources
Heather Chauvin’s podcast: Mom is in Control
Heather’s website
Time Freedom Challenge – Heather’s freebie mastery program
The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines on Amazon
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert on Amazon
As someone who has always been drawn to a myriad of interests and passions, you probably already know that I self-identify as a “multi-passionate” or “multi-potentialite” - which simply means that I’m the kind of person who is drawn to a myriad of interests and have a hard time narrowing down my interests and my career into just one thing. It’s a topic that comes up often on the show, and this week on the show I’m sharing all about the power of owning your expertise as a multi-potentialite.
The term multi-potentialite (or multipassionate, or scanner, or renaissance soul), is one that describes anyone who has more than one interest and has a hard time choosing to do “just one thing” with their life or career. Many creative entrepreneurs can relate to this trait - if you’re curious about many things, if you enjoy dabbling in many disparate topics, and if you find yourself picking up a lot of new hobbies / interests and moving along from them after a short amount of time, you are likely a multi-potentialite.
It’s a wonderful thing to be, really. It means you’re a quick study. You synthesize the various disparate things you have spent time learning about in new ways. You often approach life and the world with a beginner’s mind, seeing yourself as a life long learner, instead of someone who sees themselves as a narrowly defined expert. Things stay fresh and new to “multipods,” and you probably see things in a very different way than those around you who are specialists.
What about being an expert?
One of the key things that comes up for multipotentialites is that with all of the going from topic to topic, it can also be hard to see yourself as an expert. At least in today’s society, experts are often labeled as such because of their long, linear path of study. Our schools teach us to be specialists, they’re even set up to have a clear linear path from one topic to the next, which generally yields someone in the workforce who is a specialist in a single area.
Multipotentialites can also be experts, although the definition of your expertise might require that you look at what it means to be an expert in a slightly different way. If you look back at the many things you’ve dabbled in, whether that be in your career, or in your hobbies and interests, you’ll likely start to see a pattern emerge. It might be that you are good with organizing people, or inventing things, or that you are an excellent project manager because you have the ability to be a quick study.
For multipotentialites, our expertise lies in the abilities we’ve developed to be interested in many things. While the interests might not seem to have a common thread, if you dig a bit deeper, I’m betting you will recognize it in your own work and interests.
Name your “human job description”
In addition to knowing your multipotentialite super powers, it’s also really important to be able to name your own human job description.
- Create the “obvious” description for yourself: I’m a _____ who ______. What's your day job,or your current title? Example: I'm a project manager who leads projects in digital marketing.
- Dig a little deeper. What does your multipotentialite skill set and super powers from the worksheet above say about you? Who is the true you?
When I dig deeper, I’m a ________ who helps others to ______________.
Example: I'm a joyful human connector who helps people see the parts of themselves they may have forgotten along the way.
Resources
Past episodes with Emilie Wapnick
Violeta Nedkova on Jump Start Your Joy
This week on the show, I’m excited to be talking about taking messy action with Christine Blubaugh. Christine is a copywriter from Ohio, who has had a very interesting path. She works with entrepreneurs to help other people in being objective about themselves, and craft copy that represents their offerings to the world.
Having been a health coach, and food blogger for many years (along with a personal chef), Christine had a realization that this was not her true calling. She was well established in her role, and found herself saying “this health and wellness thing isn’t a thing anymore. I don’t know what I’ll do with myself if I don’t do this.”
I find this so very relatable, and it probably is for many of you, as well. I have found that many clients spend a fair amount of time establishing themselves in a career, and after awhile they are tired of that industry. Or they find that a role they once loved doesn’t fit them as well as it once had. And here’s where I see the frustration or confusion arise: when your identity is wrapped up in that role, it’s hard to visualize yourself elsewhere, doing anything else.
In the face of feeling stuck, Christine made the decision to leave health coaching. Of that decision, she reflects “I had to just let go and practice just being.” And that is when she got her first client as a copywriter. A friend asked for input about some headlines, and over a text conversation, Christine shared some ideas. It lead to that person being her first client.
Joy comes from taking action, and being open to the unexpected
And that is what I love about this conversation. Christine didn’t know what was next when she left her role in health and wellness. She moved back to Ohio from the West Coast. She took a chance on it all working out, and it did. She opened herself up to the unexpected, and took what she calls “messy action” to figure out what was next. Instead of getting wrapped up in the notion that maybe she had to have “it all figured out” before taking a next step, she jumped in and started trying new things.
In this episode, Christine Blubaugh and I talk about:
- Her shift from being a health and wellness coach and blogger to becoming a copywriter
- Where people often get stuck in trying to write their own copy about themselves for a website
- Finding your way when you are no longer as excited about doing a job as you were when you started out
- How “messy action” brings results and helps get you to something new
- That relationships are at the heart of business, and why we can’t rely on going it solo
- How to get in touch with your authentic voice to make copywriting a conversation with your ideal client
- How do deal with resistance
- How to jump start your joy: Slow down, start the day doing something joyful, and taking time to move each day
This week on the show, I’m excited to be talking about taking messy action with Christine Blubaugh. Christine is a copywriter from Ohio, who has had a very interesting path. She works with entrepreneurs to help other people in being objective about themselves, and craft copy that represents their offerings to the world.
Having been a health coach, and food blogger for many years (along with a personal chef), Christine had a realization that this was not her true calling. She was well established in her role, and found herself saying “this health and wellness thing isn’t a thing anymore. I don’t know what I’ll do with myself if I don’t do this.”
I find this so very relatable, and it probably is for many of you, as well. I have found that many clients spend a fair amount of time establishing themselves in a career, and after awhile they are tired of that industry. Or they find that a role they once loved doesn’t fit them as well as it once had. And here’s where I see the frustration or confusion arise: when your identity is wrapped up in that role, it’s hard to visualize yourself elsewhere, doing anything else.
In the face of feeling stuck, Christine made the decision to leave health coaching. Of that decision, she reflects “I had to just let go and practice just being.” And that is when she got her first client as a copywriter. A friend asked for input about some headlines, and over a text conversation, Christine shared some ideas. It lead to that person being her first client.
Joy comes from taking action, and being open to the unexpected
And that is what I love about this conversation. Christine didn’t know what was next when she left her role in health and wellness. She moved back to Ohio from the West Coast. She took a chance on it all working out, and it did. She opened herself up to the unexpected, and took what she calls “messy action” to figure out what was next. Instead of getting wrapped up in the notion that maybe she had to have “it all figured out” before taking a next step, she jumped in and started trying new things.
In this episode, Christine Blubaugh and I talk about:
- Her shift from being a health and wellness coach and blogger to becoming a copywriter
- Where people often get stuck in trying to write their own copy about themselves for a website
- Finding your way when you are no longer as excited about doing a job as you were when you started out
- How “messy action” brings results and helps get you to something new
- That relationships are at the heart of business, and why we can’t rely on going it solo
- How to get in touch with your authentic voice to make copywriting a conversation with your ideal client
- How do deal with resistance
- How to jump start your joy: Slow down, start the day doing something joyful, and taking time to move each day
This week on the podcast, I’m sharing one of my favorite topics, 8 great reasons to start a podcast. While this episode is a solocast, I’ve shared this information in various other formats: webinars, as a guest instructor in other courses, and in my own podcasting class, Jump Start Your Podcast. And, I think it’s a great perspective for anyone who is considering starting your own show, especially if you are a a service provider of any type (coach, doctor, VA, or someone who works supporting others).
I’ve found that there are a handful of reasons that you should start a podcast if you are considering it. Here are the top eight reasons you should start a podcast.
1. It Helps You Get Super Clear on Your Niche
Laying the groundwork for the show goes hand in hand with defining the nature of the show, and the topic that you want to spend (a lot of) time with. In marketing speak, the topic needs to be “campaign-able,” meaning it should be something that is vast enough for you to spend time exploring, but narrow enough that the audience understands what the container is for it.
For you to start a show, you’ll want to spend time with that niche. What is it?
What do people interested in that niche want to hear more about?
How can you serve the population that is interested in that niche?
And, what is the crossover between your WORK and how you can provide service to that group of people?
2. Find and/or Develop Your Online Voice
For many, it is much easier to ease into their “voice” when they are actually speaking (as opposed to writing.) It’s a natural way of communicating, and it’s easy to use it. I find that many of us who are service providers are an excellent fit for being a podcast host because you and I are working in a field where interacting with others is part of what we are already comfortable doing.
A few other considerations around becoming a podcaster:
One thing I like to ask people when they are considering a podcast is “Are you an ‘external processor’?”.
(Do you like to work through things verbally, with another person? Do you “talk it out” as opposed to thinking it through on your own?)
Have you enjoyed doing drama or speaking in the past? (in some ways this is much easier as you don’t see your audience).
For me, I found my true voice and comfort with being on air several months in. I could feel myself easing in to my personality with guests, and then it extended in to my doing what I call solocasts. The interesting thing to me is that I also use that voice now in blogging, and in writing my weekly newsletter.
3. Become More Confident in Your Speaking & Presenting
Once you’ve edited yourself a couple of times, you’ll be very aware of your verbal tics and catch yourself doing them, You’ll hear the “ums” and “ahhhhs,” and notice your speech patterns. And once you notice those things, you’ll also start self-editing as you speak.
The other confidence building aspect of being a podcaster is that pitching and interviewing VIPs is life changing & a huge confidence booster. After having a big name person in whatever industry you’re in say yes, and then actually having a full conversation with them? Your confidence will increase in your art, and in what you do.
If you are in a field like coaching or consulting, you’ll notice that you are more in tune with how you say things and become a better active listener.
4. Up Your “Know, Trust, Like” Factor with Potential Clients
Podcasting offers a way for potential clients to “get to know you” by listening in on conversations and hearing your point of view on topics. I know many podcast listeners who say they feel that they know a podcaster. They listen to them in the car, while gardening, while cooking or doing other work around the home. These are spaces and places that are personal to the listener. And, there’s no other media that invites and allows a person (like you, the host), into a person’s routine the way that podcasting does, because podcasting is “portable.”
5. Marketing Stops Being “Icky”
Before I started a podcast, I will admit that I found marketing to be kind of “icky.” It didn’t feel natural, and it often felt forced.
Here’s the cool thing about podcasts. Once your show is live, it provides weekly inspiration of stories you’re excited to share across social media. You have something you want to talk about and share, and it comes from a place of authentic excitement. Add to it that similar to having guest posts on your blog or site, guests are excited to share their conversation with you.
All of that points to marketing, and reaching new potential clients, in a way that is organic and feels natural. It’s exciting when the ick factor is gone.
6. Expand Your Skillset As You Interview Experts
If you have an interview show, you will be lining up conversations with experts and learning more about the field they represent by:
- Researching and reading their work
- Getting answers directly from them based on the questions you create
- Interacting with others about the material
This adds to your continuing education on a topic, and allows you to share what you learn with others. You’ll also find that when you expand your knowledge in your show, you’ll have new things to share with your client base.
7. You Have an Important Message to Share with the World
As a service based business owner or blogger, you’re likely already focused on a mission. You’ve discovered your “Why” and want to share it with the world, and make an impact. Podcasting offers you a platform to share this, and leave a mark, and find other like minded individuals that also share your point of view.
8. Naturally Grow Your Network
In addition to learning with each guest, you also make several kinds of connections:
Professional connections with other experts in your field (or your podcast’s area of focus) allows the following things to happen:
- Listeners find you based on the topic you cover
- You get to know other podcasters, either because you are next to them each week on the charts, or because you join a networking group with them
- Make friends: I’ve become friends with guests, and other podcasters
- Introduce you to people with whom you may want to create other collaborative projects with - such as classes, business ventures, or other things that fit your shared interests
- Find new clients for your business
Already in the midst of creating a show? You’ll get a free month of hosting from Liberated Syndication (Libsyn), using my (affiliate) code: JOY.
This week, I’m thrilled to be speaking to Violeta Nedkova on how to embrace the life of a creative rebel. Violeta is a coach and a creative rebel who believes you can stop following everyone else’s rules, be your own boss, and do things your own way … and make a living doing it. She offers courses, coaching, and classes for creative rebels at her website, www.violetanedkova.com.
Living in Bulgaria, Violeta and I met during the 2018 Multipassionate Must-Haves, where we were both participants. I could tell by visiting her site that we’d get along famously, and I’m thrilled to have her on the show this week. I think you’ll love her rebel attitude, and the fact that she truly embraces the ideology that there are no rules in building a business.
How it fits in to the tenets of joy: Action
Violeta and I talk a lot about what it means to be a creative multipassionate entrepreneur. Many of us get stuck as we try to narrow down what to focus on, and how to make that into a business. It’s not easy, especially when you have so many interests, to narrow them down.
“If you’re a multi-passionate,” says Violeta about marketing, “How can you niche down? Go with an umbrella brand.”
What she recommends is to see your business and your life as a puzzle, and approach both as if you are collecting the pieces. The key here is action. Look for the next piece of the puzzle, follow the nudges you have to find what interests you, and give yourself the space and permission to build the picture as you go. Our conversation takes a very interesting turn near the end, when we talk about how resistance and exploring the things that piss us off can both be a way to get in touch with the things that matter, and the things we want to change or work on in the world.
Violeta Nedkova and I talk about:
- Why most creative types resonate with rebellion
- How creativity is an act of rebellion itself
- Violeta’s path to becoming a creative coach for rebels
- What it looks like to strive for “enough” for yourself, instead of making someone else’s ideal your goal
- Creating a brand that encompasses all of your ideas as an entrepreneur
- Looking at life and your work as a puzzle, one that we are collecting the pieces of to discover our larger picture and purpose
- The role of resistance and discomfort, and how that can help create focus, or distract from, the creative process
- Her earliest sparks of joy: playing with fairies, making up games, and stories
- How to jump start your joy: gratitude, doing something just for you, and doing things her own way
Resources
Violeta Nedkova’s website
Violeta Nedkova’s podcast: Rebel Reset
This week’s episode is a lookback lesson with Andrea Owen on "How to Stop Feeling Like Shit." This episode originally aired earlier this year, when her second book came out. Andrea Owen is an author, mentor, and certified life coach who helps high-achieving women let go of perfectionism, control, and isolation and choose courage and confidence instead. She has helped thousands of women manage their inner-critic to create loving connections and live their most kick-ass life.
I loved this episode because Andrea and I talk about people pleasing, perfecting, approving and performing, and our experience with all of them. What I love is that near the end of this interview, we talk about the myth of having to “be strong” as women, and how that can be both a habit and burden that is not necessarily serving us.
We also talk about:
- How to Stop Feeling Like Shit (her new book)
- Andrea studying with Brene Brown in 2014 and how that influenced her life and this book
- how the armor we build up works, until it doesn’t, and what happens next
- boundaries and how to set them
- the cycle of pleasing, perfecting, approving, performing
- how women (and all people) avoid shame, and why we do it
- the 14 common behaviors that we all do when things get hard in life, and why they aren’t serving us
- how feeling and acknowledging the pain in our lives opens us up to more joy
- Andrea’s earliest memories of joy
- how she will be “stepping up and stepping forward” this year
- Andrea’s thoughts on how to jumpstart your joy: make room for creativity
Resources:
How to Stop Feeling Like Shit by Andrea Owen (on Amazon)
52 Ways to Live a KickAss Life by Andrea Owen (on Amazon) – her first book
Your Kickass Life – Andrea’s website
The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level by Gay Hendricks (on Amazon)
Jill Stanton of Screw the 9 to 5 is my guest this week on the podcast. She’s a true force to be reckoned with in the online lifestyle entrepreneur space, and I’m really excited to be speaking with her about how she has created a lively, exciting brand and community that’s built from an authentic and interesting space. Having started in 2012 with an affiliate skincare site, and changed and shifted the focus and approach of her business, Jill and her now husband Josh, have grown their business into a full time gig with a team. And now, with their new son, Kai here, they are looking at how they shift their business again to include time and space for a child.
Jill and I have a very fun, fast paced discussion about how she has evolved her online business over the past 6 years. She started in the beauty and skincare business, and met her husband Josh who was using social media to support venues while he was a bartender. The two joined forces, and took their collective knowledge to create the business “Screw the 9 to 5,” which started as a dream on a beach in Thailand.
Jill has a lot to share about HOW to start an online business, and what helps move the needle.
In general, the mindset pieces she shares are:
- Don’t overcomplicate it
- Start imperfectly; you don’t need everything all in order to begin
- Focus on making connections with people who are in the same area and niche as you are, and help each other
- Notice the difference between the “employee” and the entrepreneur mindset
- Don’t be afraid to do things your way
- Learn to be comfortable with the uncomfortable
Some of the more tactical steps she sites are
- Grow your traffic by getting on other people’s platforms through interviews, guest posts, etc
- Be active in Facebook groups about your area of expertise
- You only need a very few things to start: a site, an email optin, and a social media profile
- Create a runway for yourself by building up a business with 80% of your income
- Build traffic and take visibility seriously
Jill also shares about how having a child changes things:
- It means you prioritize the things that move the needle
- She and her husband set aside Fridays for family time
- You may hire people to cover roles
- Don’t mess around with things in your business that are working and don’t need to be tweaked
- Hire people offline to support your family, if you can a cleaner, nanny, order groceries, etc
This week on the podcast, I’m revisiting the conversation with singer and songwriter Morgan Bolender. Morgan is known for her song entitled Mary Oliver, which has gone viral on YouTube. She started her career as a 3rd grade special education teacher and then started on a journey to quite literally find her voice, and listen to her heart. We met at Danielle LaPorte’s White Hot Truth event at Grace Cathedral, where Morgan opened the event for Danielle. I’m so thrilled she’s here today to share about the amazing journey she’s taken to find her voice.⠀
In this episode, Morgan and I talk about:
-
How she was introspective and oddly serious as a child, with solitude bringing her joy
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Her song writing process with partner Scott
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What brings her joy: little joys, hugs, and setting intentional time
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Her journey from being a teacher to becoming a singer and song writer that started with her saying “Take me where I need to go”
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Living on an organic farm and hearing her own voice singing for the very first time
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Following your fears and growing
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How she pitched Danielle LaPorte and all about her singing in Grace Cathedral
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Her blog, The Unraveling
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What resistance has looked like for her: trying her very hardest in her creative pursuits, and breaking down the BS that comes with being self taught (and feeling like that is a badge of honor)
Resources:
Mary Oliver on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGCelKTH5I0
Morgan Bolender’s Website: https://morganbolender.com/
Danielle LaPorte’s White Hot Truth (on Amazon) http://amzn.to/2jxQCn1
Morgan Bolender’s music: https://morganbolender.com/music
Morgan on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MorganBolender/
Morgan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morganbolender/
This week on the podcast, I’m delighted to speak to Debbie Augenthaler on grief, trauma, and healing. Debbie is a psychotherapist, the author of You Are Not Alone: A Heartfelt Guide to Grief, Healing, and Hope, and she has a private practice in New York City. After losing her husband, she was unexpectedly faced with grief, and found that losing someone that close to you causes ripples of effects; and that the impact of grief does not neatly follow the stages that we’ve all read about. Grief strikes everyone differently, and grieving is not a linear process.
Yes, you go through waves and stages, but the day to day experience of profound loss was not something she found referenced in books. Debbie was grateful to find a therapist during her own time of grief, one who held space for her to grieve.
Working in the financial field for many years, Debbie was in New York for September 11, 2001. She saw the impact of loss again, among her friends and coworkers. This time, however, she also saw that since she had already been through that kind of loss herself, she was able to “be there” for people as they faced loss in their own lives. In her words, “I wasn’t afraid of their grief. I wanted to help.”
Debbie shares all about her book and her journey through grief, and to becoming a psychotherapist on this week’s show. She also talks about four ways to reconnect in the midst of grief:
- Discover a small bit of hope
- Meditate and look for reasons to be grateful
- Be kind to yourself and others. Smile at other people, look for connection
- Be in nature
Debbie Augenthaler and talk about:
- Growing up the daughter of a marine and moving quite a bit as a child
- Her early joy of going to the library and finding joy and connection in books
- How and why she became a psychotherapist: her love of discovering what drives people and makes them tick
- How her husband died in her arms, and the impact of that unexpected loss
- Her experience of September 11, 2001 in New York City as part of the financial industry community
- The hero’s journey from victim to victor
- What to do if you’re faced with unexpected grief in your life
- How taking comfort in small things is good and affirming for you when you are in the grief process
- That it’s “OK to not be OK.”
Debbie Augenthaler’s Website: http://www.debbieaugenthaler.com/
Debbie’s group on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DebbieAugenthaler
Debbie Augenthaler’s Book: You Are Not Alone: A Heartfelt Guide to Grief, Healing, and Hope (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/2kRJKlB
Nicholas Wolterstorff’s Book: Lament for A Son (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/2JAcA7O
Julia Samuel’s Book: Grief Works (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/2Hs3pBf
Julia Samuel on Jump Start Your Joy http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2018/03/julia-samuel/
This week on the show, I’m exploring the 4 pillars of joy: Inspiration, Mindfulness, Action, and Fun. If you’ve been listening awhile, you know that I think of joy as a wayfinding emotion. I have seen joy dance with people, reach out for people, even when they are in their darkest times or most difficult times. Joy can look like a tiny inkling of hope, a little nudge to call a friend or a doctor; joy looks like that second in your life, like several guests and so many of my clients have sited - that you know that there is “more” to your life than whatever your current crappy circumstances are. That you know you want more, desire more, that you personally are meant for more than what you’re experiencing right now.
This week we’ll look at one of the quotes that inspired my show, and I’m going deeper with it around HOW to find more joy. What I’ve seen in the fact that joy is a choice is that there’s more to it. Joy can be lived out in multiple ways. I see that there are patterns in how I’ve danced with joy in my life, and how I’ve seen joy be jump started in other people’s lives. That part is fascinating. I’m focusing on my favorite four patterns today, the ones I’ve started calling the four tenets or four pillars of joy.
The four pillars are:
1. Inspiration
2. Mindfulness
3. Action
4. Fun
Resources
Kate Swoboda on Episode 135: The Courage Habit
The Courage Habit: How to Accept Your Fears, Release the Past, and Live Your Courageous Life by Kate Swoboda on Amazon
Suzan Colon on Episode 133: Yoga Mind
Suzan Colon’s book: Yoga Mind: Journey Beyond the Physical, 30 Days to Enhance Your Practice and Revolutionize Your Life From the Inside Out
Episode with Fred LeBlanc on Jump Start Your Joy
Episode with Julia Samuel on Jump Start Your Joy
Andrea Owen on Episode 115: How to Stop Feeling Like Shit
How to Stop Feeling Like Shit by Andrea Owen (on Amazon)
A Thousand Names of Joy: Living in Harmony with the Way Things Are by Byron Katie on Amazon
The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer on Amazon
This week I’m so excited to have Doña Bumgarner on the show as part of the Friendpreneur Series. This series highlights conversations I have with friends, who are also entrepreneurs, and we dish the behind the scenes realities of starting a business, and what it looks like in real life.
Doña Bumgarner is the powerhouse behind the “Nurtured Mama” blog, the voice of the “Nurturing Habit” podcast, and an amazing coach. Doña is a dear friend who I met through coaching. She and I share so much in common - we are both project managers, both coaches, both podcasters, and both moms to first graders. I really loved getting to talk to her about her journey and where she’s at. We also talk about her experience in my “Jump Start Your Podcast” class, which is where she got her start for her show, which is in its second season.
Why you need to listen:
There’s a lot of becoming an entrepreneur that’s about highlighting your strengths, and leaning in to what you already know and what you’re an expert at. The thing is, there’s a lot of “noise” out there that will tell you there’s a certain way to do things. A certain way to market yourself, a way to be a coach, what a coaching practice looks like, and what it means to be big or to have “made it.”
There’s so much noise, in fact, that it can be easy to second guess what you know. Or to make busy work for oneself trying to fit that mold. Even when you KNOW marketing, you KNOW how to run a project, and you are a darn good SME “subject matter expert” in many fields. The doubt or the noise or both will throw you for a loop and make you think maybe there’s a different or better way than the one you’d naturally follow.
Here’s why you need to listen to this episode
Dona’s doing a couple of things that are very different than what all that noise might want you to do. First, she’s looking at ways to layer in her project manager background with her coach training, and creating something brand new with the marriage of these two specialities.
Second, she’s actively working on creating structure in her day to mindfully do LESS with her time. You read that right. She’s using time management and prioritization to make room to do less, and to ditch the busy work. This allows her the space to breathe, to be, to spend time with family.
The project manager in me really loves this, both that she’s leveraging what she knows and is so good at (creating structure in chaos, a la project management) and creating something new with it with her more recently acquired skill set, putting a “why” behind the structure. She’s focusing on structure to leave more room for the other things that matter in her life.
In this episode, Doña Bumgarner and I talk about:
- Her journey to becoming a coach
- Her experience with having breast cancer and being a survivor
- How society places worth on women being able to “do it all,” and how judgements (internal and external) arise when doing it all is not sustainable (and it never is)
- Time Management, and how it’s generally the pursuit of getting it all done (but doesn’t need to be)
- Doña’s goal of teaching productivity so people can focus on doing less (instead of more)
- Who Doña loves to work with in coaching, and how getting unstuck makes all the difference
- Podcasting! And her approach to seasons; doing one season on grief and the next on self care
- Dona’s approach to maintaining a podcast, by doing bi-weekly episodes and setting a time limit on how much time she spends on each episode
- Healing emotional scars of the past
- The crossroads of productivity and self care
- Her 3 thoughts on jump starting your joy: look to the past for clues on where you are headed in the future, allow the shift to happen, get help if you need it to process change, and create structure to make space for the things you want to do
Resources
Nurturing Habit: Doña Bumgarner’s Podcast Website
Nurtured Mama: Doña Bumgarner’s Coaching Website and Blog
Overwhelmed by Brigitte Schulte on Amazon
Get to Work Book by Elise Blaha
Kerri Powers is a singer, songwriter, and musician, and she has just released her latest album, Starseeds. I’m so honored and delighted to have her on the show this week to talk about her creative process, about getting honest and telling your truest story, and about how music is a connecting force.
It was a real treat getting to speak with Kerri, who is as soulful as the blues music that she writes and loves. What I love about Kerri is her deeply intuitive nature. She’s “present” like no one I’ve ever met, truly in the moment with you, and speaks her heart.
Kerri opens up about her love of blues, sharing that it resonates with her soulfully. I can relate to this, as part of the mission of the show is to talk about what happens when someone chooses joy, even in the most improbable and difficult times in their lives. There’s a deep truth we each can find when we “go there,” into the dark, into the hard stuff, and see what’s waiting. Kerri gets this too, sharing that “there’s a lot of beauty in darkness and joy that comes from it. We have to hit rock bottom to find true joy.”
Starseeds by Kerri Powers is a beautiful album that has a hauntingly gorgeous sound to it. I heard bits of Patty Griffin (When it Don’t Come Easy). They are songs that (as I say in the interview) I can “fall into” - they are deep and wide in meaning and in musicality. Her voice is a balm and her lyrics speak to things I can relate to on a soulful level. My favorites on the album are “Somewhere on the Vine,” and “Free Bird Flying.”
Inspiration: Connecting from an honest and authentic place.
Much of what Kerri shares about her creative process, which is one of my favorite things to ask about when speaking with musicians, artists and entertainers, is that she strives to connect from an honest place. “If songs are written from an honest place, they connect,” she says, “Don’t shut things out. If it’s your truth, it will touch people in the right way. Work through the uncomfortable feelings.”
Her wisdom here is something each of us can take to heart. So many of my clients are drawn to work that is vulnerable in some way, whether it be podcasting or writing, or leading at work. Stepping into a role that is more visible is always going to be more vulnerable.
The key is that you have to work through the uncomfortable feelings to get to that place of connection. While in the beginning, it might not feel like any one is watching / noticing / listening, you will connect. You will find your right people. Kerri shares that when that happens with a song, it’s almost as if you are reflecting a person’s truths back to them, or sometimes, transporting the person to another place that feels like home.
Kerri talks about writing the song “Free Bird Flying,” which is about her mother. As a visual artist, she sees vignettes of moments as she writes the music. She told me that she wrote this song in two phases, knowing that after she wrote the first two verses that the work needed to rest. Then, in France, the song came back to her and she wrote the last verse. It’s a gorgeous song, that I’ll play at the end of the episode.
In this episode, Kerri Powers and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy in music, art, and seeing things in color
- Playing harmonica with her mom, and winning talent shows as a child
- Her love of the blues, which she says resonate with her soulfully
- The darkness that can lead to great joy
- That writing and honoring the creative process from an honest place create connection
- Her love of performing live, and the energy and connection that come from that
- Her writing process, which she lets unfold over time for each song
- Advice for those starting out as a songwriter
- Why it’s important to work throught the uncomfortable feelings
- The resistance she’s met along the way, of people not fully understanding her drive and need to do the work she does
- Her thoughts on jumpstarting joy - participating in art, music, and culture, practicing gratitude, and practicing unconditional love
Resources
Kerri Powers’ album, Starseeds on Amazon
Kerri Powers’ website
Kerri Powers on Facebook
Kerri Powers on Twitter
This week on the show, I’m joined by Emilie Wapnick, Jamie Ridler, and Melissa Dinwiddie for a roundtable on being a multi-passionate person. As a multi-passionate, or multi-potentialite (or scanner, or renaissance soul), we can relate to having lots of different interests and not wanting to narrow our work or creativity down to focus to just one thing. This roundtable focuses on the unique challenges of putting structure and planning around the creativity and myriad of interests that each of us have. It’s a great discussion!
This episode is airing this week in honor of the Multi-passionate Must Haves bundle, which is on sale from May 15-17, 2018. It includes 17 amazing courses, programs, and resources specially created for multipotentialites, like you. If you bought all of these goodies separately, you would pay $1585, but you can snag it all for just $97 during this sale.
Here’s why you need to listen to this episode:
I know that from working with a lot of creative people, many of whom identify as a multi-passionate, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. From having a hard time narrowing down the next thing to focus on, to feeling anxious about picking one thing (when it feels like it means you’re saying no to the other things), it can be hard to put structure around the multi-passionate brain, and reign in all of those great ideas.
This week, four experts talk about creating structure that works for you, so that you can create and complete projects that align with your many passions. We talk about focusing on taking action, and not getting stuck before you start work, which in turn and enables you to work past the overwhelm, and get moving. By putting some simple structure in place, it means you have more room to play, to explore, and to bring some of your many ideas to life.
In this episode, Melissa Dinwiddie, Jamie Ridler, Emilie Wapnick and I talk about:
- Being a Multi-passionate, and working with having more than just one passion you want to focus on
- Our earliest sparks of Joy:
- Emilie: making things
- Jamie: concocting things, dancing, and improv
- Melissa: dancing, playing with animals, operas
- The challenges of being a multipassionate: finding balance, while still maintaining variety
- The offerings we each have in the Multi-passionate Must Haves bundle:
- Emilie: 5 interviews from her book, “How to be Everything”
- Melissa: Erase the Chaos, how to work through your mile long to do list, and provide yourself with more space and ease
- Jamie: Planning Day, her most popular product, which provides form, structure and freedom around your multi-passionate and creative interests
- Why Multipassionates often stop doing something before it’s what is considered traditionally “finished” - we often get what we need out of the interest, and are done when we’re done
- What we do when we’re faced with a long list of things we want to try or do, and worry we’ll lose track of the ideas
- How to jumpstart your joy:
- Jamie: dance, photography, eating without distraction
- Melissa: doodling, gratitude, generosity
- Emilie: singing karaoke, swimming in a natural body of water, the ritual of coffee
- Paula: singing made up songs, cuddling puppies, wearing sparkly shoes
Resources
How to Be Everything by Emilie Wapnick on Amazon
Emilie Wapnick’s website, Puttylike
Melissa Dinwiddie’s website
Jamie Ridler’s website
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott on Amazon
Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sher on Amazon
This week on the show, I’m thrilled to have Lindsay Ambrose and Natalie Sager joining me to talk about their new book, Peaceful Mamas: The Mind, Body, and Baby Connection. The two joined together to write this book after meeting at a conference in Chicago, and bonding together over their love of Hal Elrod’s book, The Miracle Morning. Seeing how it could be tweaked, evolved, and applied to the transition around motherhood, AND seeing their like-minded approach to being moms, the two came together to create this new and unique offering for parents.
Why you need to listen:
Natalie, Lindsay and I dish a ton of very actionable and useable ideas for moms and parents. From both the mindset shift that we all encountered upon becoming parents, to other practical things, like how we go about setting a routine, and how we’ve helped growing children process their own emotions.
This is especially poignant for me as I’d struggled with a morning routine quite a bit when my son was younger. There was something about the transition between getting up, to getting out the door to daycare that was very painful, as my son is a “dawdler.” (he takes FOREVER and gets easily distracted). Now that he’s 7, we have it down to a science (and he understands the routines, thanks to a great visual checklist we posted on the refrigerator.
My favorite part of our discussion was when Lindsay brought up the idea of “plan tight, but hang loose” as a way of approaching parenting. As a project manager, of course I love a good plan. The reality of becoming a parent is that the plans don’t always come together as expected, and so often there’s improvisation and humor required as life throws some unexpected curves at you.
Like that time you discover the backup shorts you’d packed for your son for a day at the beach are last year’s size, and do not fit. At all. And of course, this discovery happens when he is wet, sandy, very cold, and you’re about to get into the car for a two hour drive home. In that case, a stop by Target was the solution as we headed out of town.
The trick is finding peace in the moments. Or, if overwhelm hits (and it does hit), finding ways to slow down, reset, and come back to a situation with a fresh perspective. It’s all in the mindset, and I loved getting to talk about some of the realities of motherhood with Natalie and Lindsay.
In this episode Natalie Sager, Lindsay Ambrose and I talk about:
- How they met in Chicago over a shared interest in Hal Elrod’s book, The Miracle Morning
- Their own new spin on how to bring more peace into your day as a Mama
- What MAMAHH stands for: Mindfulness, Affirmations, Movement, Abundance, Health and Heart and how this can be put into action in your own life
- Tapping into little moments that will help to restore and rejuvenate you
- Finding the wisdom in your own heart, and focusing on that as a mother
- The “surrender” of parenthood
- What happens when you let go of the outcome needing to be a certain way as a parent
- Learning to trust that little voice inside you (your intuition) as a mother
- The RAIN method for approaching things: Recognize, Accept, Inquiry, Nurture / Kindness - and how this plays into mindfulness
- “Dealing” with the emotions and feelings children have
- Jumpstarting Joy for Lindsay: filling yourself up first, being more present and getting out of her head, and using her imagination
- Jumpstarting Joy for Natalie: setting intentions, releasing worries, and getting back to gratitude
[bctt tweet= “Take tiny moments to restore and rejuvenate.” @peacefulmamas @ambroselinds @modhippiemama #podcast #mindfulness #peacefulmamas #happymom]
Resources
Website for the Peaceful Mamas community
Natalie Sager’s website at The Modern Hippie Mama
Lindsay Ambrose’s website at Everyday EveryMom
The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod on Amazon
Kate Swoboda is joining me today to celebrate the release of her brand new book, The Courage Habit: How to Accept Your Fears, Release the Past, and Live Your Courageous Life. Kate (who is also known as Kate Courageous) is a life coach, the founder of Courageous Living Coach Certification, and Your Courageous Life. And, I’ve had the pleasure of working with her previously as a mentor in her coaching certification program.
Kate’s work has been multifaceted around courage and fear, and her path to becoming a published author is inspiring. After having her book proposal accepted, she came to the realization that she wanted to go deeper on the questions of how we develop courage, and what holds us back from acting courageously. She asked her publisher if she could change up the focus of the book (they said yes!) and she created a book that brings in neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and other fields to develop the framework for The Courage Habit.
In this episode, Kate Swoboda and I talk about:
- Her new book, The Courage Habit
- Her road to becoming a published author, along with her advice to anyone wishing to get a book published (keep trying)
- How she proposed a new angle on the book, after the proposal was accepted
- How to start practicing courage based behaviors and get “unstuck”
- Experiencing fear, and practicing mindfulness to recognize that you’re experiencing fear, while also stepping back to observe your own “stress responses”
- The Inner Critic, and the ways that the Inner Critic counteracts courage:
o Perfectionism
o People Pleasing
o Sabotage
o Pessimism - That we need to work with (instead of against) the Inner Critic, by meeting him/her with unconditional love and acceptance
- The role of community in developing courage
- The question of “what if courage could be easy.”
Resources
The Courage Habit: How to Accept Your Fears, Release the Past, and Live Your Courageous Life by Kate Swoboda on Amazon
Courageous Living Coach Certification - CLCC
Kate Swoboda’s site: Your Courageous Life
Kate Swoboda on past Jump Start Your Joy episodes:
Kate Swoboda on “Courage as a Path to Healing (Episode 8, Season 1)
The Crossroads of Courage and Creating Habits with guest Kate Courageous (Episode 80, Season 2)
Season Two Finale: A Roundtable on Joy, Finding Inspiration, and Self Care in Difficult Times (Episode 101, Season 2)
This week on the show, I’m super excited to have creative career coach Michelle Ward back as part of the Friendpreneur Series. Michelle has been on 3 times in the past, and we always have a blast (you can find links to the other episodes at the bottom of this post). I think you will love that we talk about some of the challenges of being an entrepreneur, and how she’s recently chosen to refresh and change her coaching offerings. In looking back over her clients and work over the past 10 years, it became apparent that the work she loved and got the most traction with clients is in the “discover, launch, build” season of beginning a creative entrepreneurial business.
Here’s what I love about Michelle (and what she shares in this interview) – she’s wildly dedicated to helping entrepreneurs figure out the what and the how of launching a biz. Her passion is really about getting past the road blocks and limiting mindset of a person’s initial creative idea. So many entrepreneur hopefuls have big ideas, but get stuck, and stop, and it’s her mission to help people figure out the ways past and out of the places they are stuck.
Knowing that this is the territory Michelle loves – we talked about it a lot.
In this chat, Michelle Ward and I talk about:
- Her 10 years as an entrepreneur and creative career coach
- How she’s been craving change and got it
- Her methodology on identifying the foundational programs that she wanted to include in her business, moving forward
- Her new “Build Your Client Base” program that will be launching in mid-June
- How to avoid getting stuck in the analysis paralysis (set a timer for 45 minutes, research, make a decision
- The emotional mind / body connection of running the NY half marathon this year after a cancer diagnosis two years ago
- As an entrepreneur, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel – that’s why there are genres
- Lin-Manuel Miranda’s discussion with Sondheim, and why we should keep looking at the new angles on the things we love – it keeps us fresh, and it keeps our followers or fans engaged.
Resources
Michelle Ward’s When I Grow Up Coach website
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s interview from NY Times from October 16, 2017
Michelle Ward, keynoting Women, work, and worth conference with Mavenly (registration is open)
Waitress the Musical
Hamilton the Musical
You’re a BadAss at making money by Jen Sincero on Amazon
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan on Amazon
Chasing Slow: Courage to Journey Off the Beaten Path by Erin Loechner on Amazon
Hunger by Roxanne Gaye on Amazon
The Dead Moms Club: A Memoir about Death, Grief, and Surviving the Mother of All Losses on Amazon
This week on the show, I’m super excited to have creative career coach Michelle Ward back as part of the Friendpreneur Series. Michelle has been on 3 times in the past, and we always have a blast (you can find links to the other episodes at the bottom of this post). I think you will love that we talk about some of the challenges of being an entrepreneur, and how she’s recently chosen to refresh and change her coaching offerings. In looking back over her clients and work over the past 10 years, it became apparent that the work she loved and got the most traction with clients is in the “discover, launch, build” season of beginning a creative entrepreneurial business.
Here’s what I love about Michelle (and what she shares in this interview) – she’s wildly dedicated to helping entrepreneurs figure out the what and the how of launching a biz. Her passion is really about getting past the road blocks and limiting mindset of a person’s initial creative idea. So many entrepreneur hopefuls have big ideas, but get stuck, and stop, and it’s her mission to help people figure out the ways past and out of the places they are stuck.
Knowing that this is the territory Michelle loves – we talked about it a lot.
In this chat, Michelle Ward and I talk about:
- Her 10 years as an entrepreneur and creative career coach
- How she’s been craving change and got it
- Her methodology on identifying the foundational programs that she wanted to include in her business, moving forward
- Her new “Build Your Client Base” program that will be launching in mid-June
- How to avoid getting stuck in the analysis paralysis (set a timer for 45 minutes, research, make a decision
- The emotional mind / body connection of running the NY half marathon this year after a cancer diagnosis two years ago
- As an entrepreneur, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel – that’s why there are genres
- Lin-Manuel Miranda’s discussion with Sondheim, and why we should keep looking at the new angles on the things we love – it keeps us fresh, and it keeps our followers or fans engaged.
Resources
Michelle Ward’s When I Grow Up Coach website
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s interview from NY Times from October 16, 2017
Michelle Ward, keynoting Women, work, and worth conference with Mavenly (registration is open)
Waitress the Musical
Hamilton the Musical
You’re a BadAss at making money by Jen Sincero on Amazon
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan on Amazon
Chasing Slow: Courage to Journey Off the Beaten Path by Erin Loechner on Amazon
Hunger by Roxanne Gaye on Amazon
The Dead Moms Club: A Memoir about Death, Grief, and Surviving the Mother of All Losses on Amazon
Suzan Colon is a yoga expert and speaker, and the author of the book, Yoga Mind: Journey Beyond the Physical, 30 Days to Enhance your Practice and Revolutionize Your Life From the Inside Out. I’m thrilled to have her on the show this week to talk about her work and her book. Suzan Colon is a former senior editor for Oprah magazine, Details, Jane, and Harper’s Bazaar, and I have found so much inspiration in what she shares with us this week.
In 2002, shortly after becoming a yoga instructor, Suzan’s friend Francesco had a diving accident that rendered him unable to use his legs or arms. Suzan felt a strong sense that she could help him, and that he could use the properties of yoga to help him heal from the mental, emotional, and physical trauma he’d endured. In her book Yoga Mind: Journey Beyond the Physical, 30 Days to Enhance your Practice and Revolutionize Your Life From the Inside Out, she chronicles the first 12 months after Fran’s accident, and, artfully weaves in the lessons of practicing a Yoga Mind for the reader.
In this episode, Suzan Colon and I talk about:
- Her earliest sparks of joy as a child: getting new books and reading them, spending time with her grandparents, and experiencing the art of contentment
- Working as a senior editor for Oprah, Details, Jane, and Harper’s Bazaar
- How working at O Magazine influenced her to follow the spiritual side of teaching yoga
- Training as a yoga instructor, and her desire to teach about the spiritual path of yoga
- Fran’s accident, their friendship, and how Suzan wanted to work with Fran
- Asana as the physical practice of the spiritual
- Maitri and kindness as part of life, and the way we interact with ourselves and others around us
- The role of intuition in following your heart and purpose
- The “Art of Contentment” – and how being content is a noble and joy-adjacent experience
- Finding “Pockets of Santosha” – those moments when you feel a giddy, universal connection with someone or something and act on it in some way
- Moments of joy, and how they make it easier to deal with the rest of life
- How Suzan approaches resistance: Fear and enthusiasm are twins holding hands. She suggests that even when you are afraid, you “do it scared”
- How to Jump Start Your Joy: by being kind, generating peace as part of our job on the planet, and taking the risk to do something you’ve always wanted to do
Resources
Suzan Colon’s Website
Suzan Colon’s book: Yoga Mind: Journey Beyond the Physical, 30 Days to Enhance Your Practice and Revolutionize Your Life From the Inside Out
How We Choose to be Happy: The 9 Choices of Extremely Happy People - Their Secrets, Their Stories by Tarcher Parigee (on Amazon)
Rick Springfield's interview with Lori Majewski on SiriusXM
Episode with Fred LeBlanc on Jump Start Your Joy
Episode with Julia Samuel on Jump Start Your Joy
Practicing the Vibration of Joy episode
A recent hot topic with my mastermind has been that of confidence. About two months ago, we did a webinar for the first time on it, and found that it was such a deep and wide topic. This episode is a two-part one … today you’ll get to hear part one on my show and on Wednesday, part two is airing on Liz Applegate’s show, Midlife Schmidlife.
There are a couple of things I know to be true about confidence: nearly everyone, at some point, struggles with feeling self-confident. While it’s not unusual for other people to look and act extremely confident, the thing I’ve found (especially in talking to so many guests for the podcast) is that at some point or another, everyone doubts themselves. And I want that to sink in for you. Even published authors, even rock stars, even the front man of a band, or the voice of a super villain – every single one of them has shared with me that they don’t always trust in themselves, and, they feel like other people likely have it more together than they do.
The other thing that’s tricky, and interesting, about confidence is that it’s an emotion you only feel after doing the thing that scares you. This is also universally true – even with outwardly confident people – that you’re going to run into things (often those things that are most important to you), that scare you. And, doing whatever it is for the first time? You won’t feel so confident about it.
The tricky thing? The confidence comes AFTER you do the thing that is scary. It’s a bit of a leap of faith, and that’s what makes it so tricky, so scary, and why so many people stop in their tracks before even trying to do the thing that they are scared of.
There’s another way of thinking of this – it’s not so much that you don’t have confidence in yourself, it’s that you’re feeling fear and that’s uncomfortable.
In this week’s episode, Liz Applegate, Julie Houghton and I are tackling the questions of confidence. I hope you’ll join in.
In this episode we talk about:
- How confidence shows up for us in our lives and work
- What it means to reconnect and claim your voice when you’re not feeling confident
- How being kind with yourself about your human experience of feeling afraid is a key component to working through your fears
- That everyone experiences not feeling confident
- The myth of comfort and safety vs discomfort
- How people pleasing, boundaries, and being afraid to speak up play into confidence
- Learning to communicate more effectively to feel more confident
- Identifying what is in your control, and how that builds confidence
Resources
Sign up for our Workshop on April 20th
Listen to Part Two on Wednesday on Midlife Schmidlife
Liz Applegate’s Website and Podcast
Julie Houghton’s Website
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life (book on Amazon)
A recent hot topic with my mastermind has been that of confidence. About two months ago, we did a webinar for the first time on it, and found that it was such a deep and wide topic. This episode is a two-part one … today you’ll get to hear part one on my show and on Wednesday, part two is airing on Liz Applegate’s show, Midlife Schmidlife.
There are a couple of things I know to be true about confidence: nearly everyone, at some point, struggles with feeling self-confident. While it’s not unusual for other people to look and act extremely confident, the thing I’ve found (especially in talking to so many guests for the podcast) is that at some point or another, everyone doubts themselves. And I want that to sink in for you. Even published authors, even rock stars, even the front man of a band, or the voice of a super villain – every single one of them has shared with me that they don’t always trust in themselves, and, they feel like other people likely have it more together than they do.
The other thing that’s tricky, and interesting, about confidence is that it’s an emotion you only feel after doing the thing that scares you. This is also universally true – even with outwardly confident people – that you’re going to run into things (often those things that are most important to you), that scare you. And, doing whatever it is for the first time? You won’t feel so confident about it.
The tricky thing? The confidence comes AFTER you do the thing that is scary. It’s a bit of a leap of faith, and that’s what makes it so tricky, so scary, and why so many people stop in their tracks before even trying to do the thing that they are scared of.
There’s another way of thinking of this – it’s not so much that you don’t have confidence in yourself, it’s that you’re feeling fear and that’s uncomfortable.
In this week’s episode, Liz Applegate, Julie Houghton and I are tackling the questions of confidence. I hope you’ll join in.
In this episode we talk about:
- How confidence shows up for us in our lives and work
- What it means to reconnect and claim your voice when you’re not feeling confident
- How being kind with yourself about your human experience of feeling afraid is a key component to working through your fears
- That everyone experiences not feeling confident
- The myth of comfort and safety vs discomfort
- How people pleasing, boundaries, and being afraid to speak up play into confidence
- Learning to communicate more effectively to feel more confident
- Identifying what is in your control, and how that builds confidence
Resources
Sign up for our Workshop on April 20th
Listen to Part Two on Wednesday on Midlife Schmidlife
Liz Applegate’s Website and Podcast
Julie Houghton’s Website
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life (book on Amazon)
A recent hot topic with my mastermind has been that of confidence. About two months ago, we did a webinar for the first time on it, and found that it was such a deep and wide topic. This episode is a two-part one … today you’ll get to hear part one on my show and on Wednesday, part two is airing on Liz Applegate’s show, Midlife Schmidlife.
There are a couple of things I know to be true about confidence: nearly everyone, at some point, struggles with feeling self-confident. While it’s not unusual for other people to look and act extremely confident, the thing I’ve found (especially in talking to so many guests for the podcast) is that at some point or another, everyone doubts themselves. And I want that to sink in for you. Even published authors, even rock stars, even the front man of a band, or the voice of a super villain – every single one of them has shared with me that they don’t always trust in themselves, and, they feel like other people likely have it more together than they do.
The other thing that’s tricky, and interesting, about confidence is that it’s an emotion you only feel after doing the thing that scares you. This is also universally true – even with outwardly confident people – that you’re going to run into things (often those things that are most important to you), that scare you. And, doing whatever it is for the first time? You won’t feel so confident about it.
The tricky thing? The confidence comes AFTER you do the thing that is scary. It’s a bit of a leap of faith, and that’s what makes it so tricky, so scary, and why so many people stop in their tracks before even trying to do the thing that they are scared of.
There’s another way of thinking of this – it’s not so much that you don’t have confidence in yourself, it’s that you’re feeling fear and that’s uncomfortable.
In this week’s episode, Liz Applegate, Julie Houghton and I are tackling the questions of confidence. I hope you’ll join in.
In this episode we talk about:
- How confidence shows up for us in our lives and work
- What it means to reconnect and claim your voice when you’re not feeling confident
- How being kind with yourself about your human experience of feeling afraid is a key component to working through your fears
- That everyone experiences not feeling confident
- The myth of comfort and safety vs discomfort
- How people pleasing, boundaries, and being afraid to speak up play into confidence
- Learning to communicate more effectively to feel more confident
- Identifying what is in your control, and how that builds confidence
Resources
Sign up for our Workshop on April 20th
Listen to Part Two on Wednesday on Midlife Schmidlife
Liz Applegate’s Website and Podcast
Julie Houghton’s Website
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life (book on Amazon)
As an illustrator, designer, and artist, Mandy returned to drawing after a fairly long absence. What I’ve noticed about people who have a grasp on joy is that they often are actively making space to do the things they love in their lives. They take the time to listen to what their heart is saying to them, and they are open to the nudges that they get from the universe along the way.
In the last month, I’ve been talking a lot about this - and I’m calling “Practicing the vibration of joy.” In a nutshell, it means that joy is more than a simple choice, but it’s also a choice that you must take action on to really feel the benefits of the emotion of joy. Simply put, you’ve got to DO something joyful in order to then feel the emotion of joy, and so, I’ve been looking at ways that people have made an intentional point of actively following joy. Mandy Ford and her work really stood out for me, and so this week I’m re-sharing the interview with her (that originally aired in Season 2 as episode 97).
Link: http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2017/08/inspiration-doodling-becoming-illustrator/
I started putting this all together after speaking to Fred LeBlanc, in episode 125. He made it a point to get curious about what was missing from his life, when he noticed that he was not feeling connected and joyful. He then made an active and purposeful choice to find his way back to joy. I see a ton of similarities in his approach and the way Mandy found her way back to drawing.
I love how Mandy has said yes to this inspiration, and following the many nudges she’s gotten from God and the universe along the way. As she says about that moment that she returned to drawing, “my soul knows something that it isn’t ready to tell me yet.” I know you’re going to be delighted and inspired by Mandy.
In this look back episode (which was originally episode 97), Mandy Ford and I talk about:
-
how she loved collecting rocks as a child, along with Lisa Frank stickers and all things “Poochie”
-
how working at a Earlham College (a Quaker seminary) has changed her life and shaped her drawing
-
that her journey of taking a writing class brought her back to her love of drawing
-
how she got a licensing deal just four months after she returned to drawing
-
how she approaches the creative process
-
her work with Illustrated Faith, creating scrapbooking kits
-
her tips for Instagram and finding a community there
-
the work she's most proud of to date (spoiler: it's being a mom to her twin boys)
-
what harmony looks like for Mandy, in her life
-
her thoughts on jump starting your joy - taking time to look up and notice the world around you, being kind, and giving freely to people
Resources
Mandy Ford's Website
Mandy Ford's Instagram feed
Mandy Ford's "Create Your Own Crazy Doodle" class on Skillshare
Jessica Swift's website (including the link to her Pattern Camp)
This week on the show, I’m excited to share a solocast all about why joy matters. I recently had a series of aha moments around the interviews with Fred Leblanc and Julia Samuels, along with the work I’ve been doing in Tiffany Han’s Inner Circle - that led me to a realization that joy isn’t just a choice, but it’s a necessity and it’s something we need to make room for everyday, in some way.
This big aha moment has roots in four places:
- Living a joyful life, and being dedicated to joy means going beyond choosing joy. This first part comes from the Henri Nouwen quote, “Joy is a choice and we must keep choosing it.”
- It means actively practicing joy and spending time with joy. Joy is energy, and we can choose to engage with this energy. (Fred Leblanc from Episode 125)
- We can carve out time for joy, making it something we add to our days, purposefully. Life will continue to throw difficult things at us. (Julia Samuel, Episode 127)
- This ties in with the Law of Attraction, and setting aside time to “play” with joy, you are “Practicing the Vibration of Joy.”
In this episode, I talk about:
- How we decide to focus our energy, and how emotions are tied with energy
- The impact that my discussion with Fred LeBlanc had on me, around making choices of how we spend our energy
- How in grief work, those who are grieving are encouraged to spend pockets of time feeling something besides grief (along with other practices)
- That we need to make room for, and carve out time to interact with joy every day, before we get to the place of feeling detached or distracted
- That we can develop a practice of joy, and build it into our days
- How scout ants set out to find things, daily, and the purpose is exploration (just as you should set out to discover joy). They don’t always find food, but they keep going.
- Once you’ve discovered joy, accessing it and growing on it may feel more in flow.
- Being careful not to judge yourself about how you practice joy, what it looks like, or if finding joy is a worthy practice. Put negative self talk aside, and keep going.
Resources
Fred LeBlanc on Jump Start Your Joy (Episode 125) http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2018/03/fredleblanc/
Julia Samuel on Jump Start Your Joy (Episode 127)http://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2018/03/julia-samuel/
Julia Cameron’s book, The Artist’s Way, on Amazon https://amzn.to/2H1GYEx
Sign up for the Confidence Webinar by visiting this link. https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pages/359391
This week’s interview with personal stylist and coach, Rayne Parvis is one of those special and fun discussions that really feels more like a chat with an old friend than an interview. Rayne and I hit it off from the start, and we laugh so hard in this interview that it’s a total delight to be sharing it with you this week.
Rayne has been very joyfully styling clients now for the past few years, and she taps in to her own gift of being able to “see you in your best potential.” She loves helping people pair down their own clothes, pick out what works, and shop with them to find new pieces to compliment their style.
What I love about Rayne is that she took the time to answer my own bizarre questions , including - what styles look best on someone who is 4 foot 10?
Do these ¾ length sleeves make my butt look big?
Why can’t I let go of these shoes I bought in Boston 20 years ago, but have never worn?
You’ll want to tune in for the answers, because Rayne and I have so much fun going through all of these questions and more.
Rayne and I talk about:
- Her book: Ultimate Guide to Style: From Drab to Fab by Rayne Parvis
- Rayne’s earliest spark of joy - riding a bike with her friends, and surprising / not surprising herself herself when she took off on two wheels for the first time
- The difference between fashion, and personal style, and why you need to know what works for you (and not just what’s trendy)
- How to dress for your body type
- That you should take a picture of yourself in an outfit, to see what it looks like on your, and update from there
- Why you need to find style icons that are a match to your own body type, and use them as inspiration.
- The magic of outwardness and inwardness of fashion
- Rayne’s past career as standup comedienne Raynecat, including her time doing a TV pilot with CoCoa Brown
- Her take on standup comedy - being the highest of highs and the lowest of lows
- How she got started in her styling business - by saying yes, following her heart, and speaking in to what she knows she is good at
- Where she has seen resistance
Resources
Ultimate Guide to Style: From Drab to Fab by Rayne Parvis
Rayne Parvis’ Website
Rayne Parvis on Instagram
This week’s interview with personal stylist and coach, Rayne Parvis is one of those special and fun discussions that really feels more like a chat with an old friend than an interview. Rayne and I hit it off from the start, and we laugh so hard in this interview that it’s a total delight to be sharing it with you this week.
Rayne has been very joyfully styling clients now for the past few years, and she taps in to her own gift of being able to “see you in your best potential.” She loves helping people pair down their own clothes, pick out what works, and shop with them to find new pieces to compliment their style.
What I love about Rayne is that she took the time to answer my own bizarre questions , including - what styles look best on someone who is 4 foot 10?
Do these ¾ length sleeves make my butt look big?
Why can’t I let go of these shoes I bought in Boston 20 years ago, but have never worn?
You’ll want to tune in for the answers, because Rayne and I have so much fun going through all of these questions and more.
Rayne and I talk about:
- Her book: Ultimate Guide to Style: From Drab to Fab by Rayne Parvis
- Rayne’s earliest spark of joy - riding a bike with her friends, and surprising / not surprising herself herself when she took off on two wheels for the first time
- The difference between fashion, and personal style, and why you need to know what works for you (and not just what’s trendy)
- How to dress for your body type
- That you should take a picture of yourself in an outfit, to see what it looks like on your, and update from there
- Why you need to find style icons that are a match to your own body type, and use them as inspiration.
- The magic of outwardness and inwardness of fashion
- Rayne’s past career as standup comedienne Raynecat, including her time doing a TV pilot with CoCoa Brown
- Her take on standup comedy - being the highest of highs and the lowest of lows
- How she got started in her styling business - by saying yes, following her heart, and speaking in to what she knows she is good at
- Where she has seen resistance
Resources
Ultimate Guide to Style: From Drab to Fab by Rayne Parvis
Rayne Parvis’ Website
Rayne Parvis on Instagram
This week, I’m delighted to have Lara Heacock joining me for the second installment of the Friendpreneur Series. This series focuses on conversations with friends, who are entrepreneurs. Many of the people are friends I’ve met either through the show (and have been on before!) or through contacts in coaching. I’ve found that starting and running a small business is something very new to many of us, who have grown up without examples of people who are entrepreneurs in our day-to-day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Lara in coach training over three years ago in the Courageous Living Coaching Certification program. She’s so full of life and joy and I have loved getting to know her better, and seeing her grow her coaching practice. She’s joining me this week for the Friendpreneur Series to share about her new book - Practical Kindness, and balancing a 9 to 5 job with her coaching. We laugh, we share lots of entrepreneur tips, and I know you’ll love getting to know her.
Lara and I talk about:
- Bringing kindness and joy to corporate settings and work
- Recognizing that there will always be fear in pursuing our dreams
- How to work with fear
- Holding ourselves accountable for kindness
- Lara’s experience in writing her new book, Practical Kindness
- The courage of being imperfect
- Creating boundaries and having difficult discussions
- The rise of the gig economy and how it ties in to 9 to 5 jobs
- Masterminds and the importance of connections as an entrepreneur
- Tips tricks and tools: finding a mastermind, figuring out what works for you energetically, don’t pick up your phone first thing in the morning when you wake up, and getting in touch with what you need in each moment
Resources
Lara Heacock’s site: Kind Over Matter
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock (on Amazon)
Amazing alarm clock on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s four tendencies framework test
Emilie Wapnick’s “How to Be Everything” on Amazon
Past Friendpreneur Series:
Christy Tending on Self Advocacy, Going Beyond Self Care
This week, I’m delighted to have Lara Heacock joining me for the second installment of the Friendpreneur Series. This series focuses on conversations with friends, who are entrepreneurs. Many of the people are friends I’ve met either through the show (and have been on before!) or through contacts in coaching. I’ve found that starting and running a small business is something very new to many of us, who have grown up without examples of people who are entrepreneurs in our day-to-day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Lara in coach training over three years ago in the Courageous Living Coaching Certification program. She’s so full of life and joy and I have loved getting to know her better, and seeing her grow her coaching practice. She’s joining me this week for the Friendpreneur Series to share about her new book - Practical Kindness, and balancing a 9 to 5 job with her coaching. We laugh, we share lots of entrepreneur tips, and I know you’ll love getting to know her.
Lara and I talk about:
- Bringing kindness and joy to corporate settings and work
- Recognizing that there will always be fear in pursuing our dreams
- How to work with fear
- Holding ourselves accountable for kindness
- Lara’s experience in writing her new book, Practical Kindness
- The courage of being imperfect
- Creating boundaries and having difficult discussions
- The rise of the gig economy and how it ties in to 9 to 5 jobs
- Masterminds and the importance of connections as an entrepreneur
- Tips tricks and tools: finding a mastermind, figuring out what works for you energetically, don’t pick up your phone first thing in the morning when you wake up, and getting in touch with what you need in each moment
Resources
Lara Heacock’s site: Kind Over Matter
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock (on Amazon)
Amazing alarm clock on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s four tendencies framework test
Emilie Wapnick’s “How to Be Everything” on Amazon
Past Friendpreneur Series:
Christy Tending on Self Advocacy, Going Beyond Self Care
This week, I’m delighted to have Lara Heacock joining me for the second installment of the Friendpreneur Series. This series focuses on conversations with friends, who are entrepreneurs. Many of the people are friends I’ve met either through the show (and have been on before!) or through contacts in coaching. I’ve found that starting and running a small business is something very new to many of us, who have grown up without examples of people who are entrepreneurs in our day-to-day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Lara in coach training over three years ago in the Courageous Living Coaching Certification program. She’s so full of life and joy and I have loved getting to know her better, and seeing her grow her coaching practice. She’s joining me this week for the Friendpreneur Series to share about her new book - Practical Kindness, and balancing a 9 to 5 job with her coaching. We laugh, we share lots of entrepreneur tips, and I know you’ll love getting to know her.
Lara and I talk about:
- Bringing kindness and joy to corporate settings and work
- Recognizing that there will always be fear in pursuing our dreams
- How to work with fear
- Holding ourselves accountable for kindness
- Lara’s experience in writing her new book, Practical Kindness
- The courage of being imperfect
- Creating boundaries and having difficult discussions
- The rise of the gig economy and how it ties in to 9 to 5 jobs
- Masterminds and the importance of connections as an entrepreneur
- Tips tricks and tools: finding a mastermind, figuring out what works for you energetically, don’t pick up your phone first thing in the morning when you wake up, and getting in touch with what you need in each moment
Resources
Lara Heacock’s site: Kind Over Matter
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock (on Amazon)
Amazing alarm clock on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s four tendencies framework test
Emilie Wapnick’s “How to Be Everything” on Amazon
Past Friendpreneur Series:
Christy Tending on Self Advocacy, Going Beyond Self Care
This week, I’m delighted to have Lara Heacock joining me for the second installment of the Friendpreneur Series. This series focuses on conversations with friends, who are entrepreneurs. Many of the people are friends I’ve met either through the show (and have been on before!) or through contacts in coaching. I’ve found that starting and running a small business is something very new to many of us, who have grown up without examples of people who are entrepreneurs in our day-to-day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Lara in coach training over three years ago in the Courageous Living Coaching Certification program. She’s so full of life and joy and I have loved getting to know her better, and seeing her grow her coaching practice. She’s joining me this week for the Friendpreneur Series to share about her new book - Practical Kindness, and balancing a 9 to 5 job with her coaching. We laugh, we share lots of entrepreneur tips, and I know you’ll love getting to know her.
Lara and I talk about:
- Bringing kindness and joy to corporate settings and work
- Recognizing that there will always be fear in pursuing our dreams
- How to work with fear
- Holding ourselves accountable for kindness
- Lara’s experience in writing her new book, Practical Kindness
- The courage of being imperfect
- Creating boundaries and having difficult discussions
- The rise of the gig economy and how it ties in to 9 to 5 jobs
- Masterminds and the importance of connections as an entrepreneur
- Tips tricks and tools: finding a mastermind, figuring out what works for you energetically, don’t pick up your phone first thing in the morning when you wake up, and getting in touch with what you need in each moment
Resources
Lara Heacock’s site: Kind Over Matter
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock (on Amazon)
Amazing alarm clock on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s four tendencies framework test
Emilie Wapnick’s “How to Be Everything” on Amazon
Past Friendpreneur Series:
Christy Tending on Self Advocacy, Going Beyond Self Care
This week, I’m delighted to have Lara Heacock joining me for the second installment of the Friendpreneur Series. This series focuses on conversations with friends, who are entrepreneurs. Many of the people are friends I’ve met either through the show (and have been on before!) or through contacts in coaching. I’ve found that starting and running a small business is something very new to many of us, who have grown up without examples of people who are entrepreneurs in our day-to-day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Lara in coach training over three years ago in the Courageous Living Coaching Certification program. She’s so full of life and joy and I have loved getting to know her better, and seeing her grow her coaching practice. She’s joining me this week for the Friendpreneur Series to share about her new book - Practical Kindness, and balancing a 9 to 5 job with her coaching. We laugh, we share lots of entrepreneur tips, and I know you’ll love getting to know her.
Lara and I talk about:
- Bringing kindness and joy to corporate settings and work
- Recognizing that there will always be fear in pursuing our dreams
- How to work with fear
- Holding ourselves accountable for kindness
- Lara’s experience in writing her new book, Practical Kindness
- The courage of being imperfect
- Creating boundaries and having difficult discussions
- The rise of the gig economy and how it ties in to 9 to 5 jobs
- Masterminds and the importance of connections as an entrepreneur
- Tips tricks and tools: finding a mastermind, figuring out what works for you energetically, don’t pick up your phone first thing in the morning when you wake up, and getting in touch with what you need in each moment
Resources
Lara Heacock’s site: Kind Over Matter
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock (on Amazon)
Amazing alarm clock on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin’s four tendencies framework test
Emilie Wapnick’s “How to Be Everything” on Amazon
Past Friendpreneur Series:
Christy Tending on Self Advocacy, Going Beyond Self Care
On the show this week, I’m delighted to be joined by Julia Samuel. She is a British psychotherapist who specializes in grief and bereavement, and founded the UK Child Bereavement charity, that works with children who are grieving, as well as those who are grieving the loss of a child. She is the author of Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving.
Julia is a truly delightful person and I really enjoyed getting to speak with her. At first blush, grief may seem to be a strange topic to be covered on a show about joy, but, I see the two emotions as beautiful bookends to each other. Both states are vulnerable in their own ways, both grief and joy are deeply personal things, and each of us experiences them in our own ways.
What I love so much about Julia Samuel’s book is that she honors and understands that the journey of grieving is different for each person, and that it’s different based on who you have lost in your life. She chose to divide the book up into sections based on the person’s relationship to the deceased.
Julia explains in the interview that she chose to do this because grief is different for each person, and because she wanted the book to be a companion for people who are grieving. She made it easy to pick up, easy to read a bit at a time, easy to see yourself in one of the people she shares about. She also includes the explanations, from a clinical perspective, of what is happening in the bereavement described - the patterns, what to expect, how you might feel. It’s a book crafted for people when they are experiencing something that makes them feel separate, disconnected, alone, and isolated, and gives them support and insights during a difficult time.
Julia and I talk about:
- Her first love of swinging on her garden swing as a child Starting Child Bereavement UK, and her work as a patron
- Her early influences, including the bereavement of her parents
- Her love of personal connection, and how that led her from a role in publishing to becoming a grief and bereavement counselor
- The roots and starting point for her book, Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving
- Why people shut down and isolate when they grieve, and why they judge themselves on a right or wrong way of grieving
- Why allowing yourself to feel the emotions of grief is important
- How to feel the emotions of grief and loss without being overcome by it
- The impacts of losing important figures like Princess Diana to society, and why so many people are deeply stirred by these tragic losses
- How a country processes the loss of children in tragedies like school shootings, as it raises the questions of “the existential cruelty of life”
- How Julia reacts to resistance, by continuing on her path
- How to jump start your joy: by enjoying her grandchildren’s giggles, getting in touch with nature, and watching romantic comedies and The Amazing Miss Maizel
Resources
Julia Samuel’s Website
Julia Samuel’s book, Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death, and Surviving on Amazon
If you are grieving: Julia’s 8 pillars of strength (a free download)
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss by Elizabeth Kubla-Ross
Waking the Tiger, by Peter Levine (a book on healing trauma)
The Marvelous Mrs Maisel on Amazon Prime
This week on the show, I'm explaining the basics and tactics of content planning and strategy for your retreat, podcast, or blog on this solocast. Learn how to take your idea to a solid plan that you can execute using project management and inspiration. It's one of my favorite topics: Figuring out the building blocks of content strategy for your own brand. I’ll be explaining how this can be applied to planning a retreat (which is where I first started playing with this approach), but it’s also something I teach in my podcasting class about how to define your show and what it will be about. It’s a little bit project management, and a lot of defining your brand and creating the building blocks of marketing, which are both things I do in my day job.
In short, this episode looks at how to get the ideas you have in your head, the one that you want to turn into something to share with the world, and get them out, on paper. From there, you'll see how you can take the idea, and begin to plan how you will share it - whether that be in a podcast, a retreat, or a blog. The basics in mapping out your idea and content are all similar, and this method can be applied to other things, too.
I'm also super excited about the download I've created for this episode, which is quite literally an entire mini-course. You can reach it by clicking here (or at the bottom of the post). You will LOVE the free content planning calendar that is included.
Here's what I'm sharing in this episode:
- the basics of understanding your "what," or, what you want to share with the world
- establishing your focus for your podcast, retreat, or blog
- how to brainstorm your ideas and get them on paper (along with a printable to do that!)
- why you need to draw a line in the sand for your creation around what you want to include, and what you don't want to include
- what you need to consider as you look to right size the content for a podcast, retreat, or blog
- how narrow down content when you want to do all the things
- how creating a podcast, blog, or retreat is tied to spreading joy in the world
All of the resources for this episode can be found in the download packet. It's a super helpful tool that you won't want to miss (and includes a custom Google set of worksheets that you can re-use year after year!)
Get your packet here: https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pages/358096
This week on the show, I'm explaining the basics and tactics of content planning and strategy for your retreat, podcast, or blog on this solocast. Learn how to take your idea to a solid plan that you can execute using project management and inspiration. It's one of my favorite topics: Figuring out the building blocks of content strategy for your own brand. I’ll be explaining how this can be applied to planning a retreat (which is where I first started playing with this approach), but it’s also something I teach in my podcasting class about how to define your show and what it will be about. It’s a little bit project management, and a lot of defining your brand and creating the building blocks of marketing, which are both things I do in my day job.
In short, this episode looks at how to get the ideas you have in your head, the one that you want to turn into something to share with the world, and get them out, on paper. From there, you'll see how you can take the idea, and begin to plan how you will share it - whether that be in a podcast, a retreat, or a blog. The basics in mapping out your idea and content are all similar, and this method can be applied to other things, too.
I'm also super excited about the download I've created for this episode, which is quite literally an entire mini-course. You can reach it by clicking here (or at the bottom of the post). You will LOVE the free content planning calendar that is included.
Here's what I'm sharing in this episode:
- the basics of understanding your "what," or, what you want to share with the world
- establishing your focus for your podcast, retreat, or blog
- how to brainstorm your ideas and get them on paper (along with a printable to do that!)
- why you need to draw a line in the sand for your creation around what you want to include, and what you don't want to include
- what you need to consider as you look to right size the content for a podcast, retreat, or blog
- how narrow down content when you want to do all the things
- how creating a podcast, blog, or retreat is tied to spreading joy in the world
All of the resources for this episode can be found in the download packet. It's a super helpful tool that you won't want to miss (and includes a custom Google set of worksheets that you can re-use year after year!)
Get your packet here: https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pages/358096
This week on the show, I'm explaining the basics and tactics of content planning and strategy for your retreat, podcast, or blog on this solocast. Learn how to take your idea to a solid plan that you can execute using project management and inspiration. It's one of my favorite topics: Figuring out the building blocks of content strategy for your own brand. I’ll be explaining how this can be applied to planning a retreat (which is where I first started playing with this approach), but it’s also something I teach in my podcasting class about how to define your show and what it will be about. It’s a little bit project management, and a lot of defining your brand and creating the building blocks of marketing, which are both things I do in my day job.
In short, this episode looks at how to get the ideas you have in your head, the one that you want to turn into something to share with the world, and get them out, on paper. From there, you'll see how you can take the idea, and begin to plan how you will share it - whether that be in a podcast, a retreat, or a blog. The basics in mapping out your idea and content are all similar, and this method can be applied to other things, too.
I'm also super excited about the download I've created for this episode, which is quite literally an entire mini-course. You can reach it by clicking here (or at the bottom of the post). You will LOVE the free content planning calendar that is included.
Here's what I'm sharing in this episode:
- the basics of understanding your "what," or, what you want to share with the world
- establishing your focus for your podcast, retreat, or blog
- how to brainstorm your ideas and get them on paper (along with a printable to do that!)
- why you need to draw a line in the sand for your creation around what you want to include, and what you don't want to include
- what you need to consider as you look to right size the content for a podcast, retreat, or blog
- how narrow down content when you want to do all the things
- how creating a podcast, blog, or retreat is tied to spreading joy in the world
All of the resources for this episode can be found in the download packet. It's a super helpful tool that you won't want to miss (and includes a custom Google set of worksheets that you can re-use year after year!)
Get your packet here: https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pages/358096
Fred LeBlanc is the powerfully energetic drummer and lead singer of the band Cowboy Mouth from New Orleans, Louisiana, and I could not be more excited to have him on the show this week. What draws me to Fred is his true dedication to joy, to choosing it, spreading it, his dedication to elevating the vibration and awareness of everyone at his shows. From his lyrics and the way he gets a crowd excited to the way he encourages others, Fred is an amazing example of positivity, love, and good energy. I feel so very lucky to have gotten to speak with him.
If you see Fred perform live with Cowboy Mouth perform live, you will witness how his dedication to bringing joy to every moment permeates the show, the music, and by extension, the crowd. Fred talks about how he made the decision early in his career to leave the successful punk group Dash Rip Rock because he could feel that the anger and firey energy of the group and music were killing him. Around this time, he was reading The Power of Positive Thinking, and he was inspired to create a new band, and do things in a different way than what he’d been seeing in the music scene. And in every show, in each interaction, in the songs, Cowboy Mouth continues to live out this positive message of believing in yourself, in choosing love, and in having faith in the greater good.
So what stood out for me in this interview? It’s Fred’s mindfulness, along with his dedication to following his intuition, having faith, and finding joy in the midst of life. We talked a lot about energy. “Playing music is a way of releasing energy,” he said, “How can I be a good source of energy, the kind that lights me up, the kind of energy I need and everyone needs? What do I bring to the game that I LOVE?”
Performing and drumming are ways that Fred taps into joy. Even during difficult times, such during his recent divorce, or when he’s worried about the potentially difficult financial side of making ends meet, he gets back in touch with joy and inspiration by taking stock in simple things. Fred said that when he’s feeling disconnected, or when he notices that he’s let ego take over, he enjoys “the feeling of a drumstick in my hand,” or feeling the power of hitting the drums. With small, mindfully chosen steps, he re-connects and can move back into a place of joy and positivity. “I find ways of growing on joy, on the simple things.”
Fred and I talk about: * His being born deaf and how he feels that music was his first way of communication * His approach to getting a crowd fired up during the Cowboy Mouth shows * How intuition is an important guide * The impact of Norman Vincent Peale’s Power of Positive Thinking * How he was impacted by his divorce three years ago, and the depression that hit him during that time * How following what you love leads you to satisfaction, and how material things and fame can be hollow * Following love, over fear * His take on God, and the energy inside all of us * Their upcoming album (The Name of the Band is...Part 2), due out May 5, 2018 * What happens when you don’t follow your intuition * Having faith in yourself and your ability to learn * That joy is “so easy, but it’s the hardest choice you’ll ever make.” * Plus, listen to the song, "I Believe" by Cowboy Mouth at the end of the interview.
Resources: Cowboy Mouth’s Website
Cowboy Mouth’s Tour Dates for 2018
Cowboy Mouth’s Album: The Name of the Band is … Greatest Hits So Far
Cowboy Mouth’s Album: Fearless (includes ‘I Believe’) on Amazon
Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale on Amazon
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss by Elizabeth Kubla-Ross on Amazon
Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer on Amazon
Confidence coach, marketing mentor, and dancer Tanika Mason joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how to shine with confidence. Tanika shares how to build confidence as an entrepreneur so that you can build a dream business you love.
Self care expert and activist Christy Tending joins host Paula Jenkins for the Friendpreneur Series to talk about self advocacy, becoming a mother, and running a business. Mompreneurs unite!
Amy Smith joins the show to talk about how to set loving boundaries, honor what you need, how to have hard conversations with compassion, self love and kindness. As two life coaches, and joy experts, Paula and Amy have a light and joyfilled discussion.
Ellie Bassick-Trovato, a life coach, joins me to talk about choosing love over fear, and how choosing love has changed her life. Inspired by "Conversations with God," by Neale Donald Walsch.
The Imposter Syndrome pops up when you're following dreams, and it can make you question if you're a fake or a fraud. Host Paula Jenkins talks about how to deal with feeling like an imposter, and how to deal with it if shows up.
Emily Levy of wellness company Mighty Well joins the show to talk about living with Neurological Lyme Disease, starting a company, and becoming a 24 year old CEO. Inspired by her own dissatisfaction with PICC covers, she set out to create something new.
Magician and illusionist Vitaly Beckman joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how he became an illusionist, his time on Penn and Teller's "Fool Us," how he creates new illusions, and how it all ties into creating joy and wonder.
In this episode, learn how to create a bucket list that is full of meaning, and learn how to do some of those things that have been sitting on your list for way too long.
Musician Emily Ann Peterson shares about developing an Essential Tremor and how courage, bravery, improvisation and defiant expectations have helped her find joy.
Andrea Owen of Your Kickass Life joins to talk about her new book, How to Stop Feeling Like Shit. Andrea is an author, mentor, & certified life coach who helps high-achieving women let go of perfectionism, control & isolation & choose courage & confidence.
Sarah Von Bargen of the blog, Yes and Yes joins the podcast to share about the crossroads of money and happiness. By mindfully choosing what you want in your life and understanding what makes you happy, you can learn to make better informed decisions.
We know that self care is important, and yet, it seems like it's the first thing to fall to the wayside when we get overwhelmed or busy. How do you make taking yourself a priority? What's holding you back? Find out with host Paula Jenkins.
Author, writer, and entrepreneur Alexandra Franzen joins to share about her new book, "You're Going to Survive." Join us as we discuss how to face and survive rejection, defeat, adversity, online trolls, and other soul crushing experiences.
Singer songwriter Morgan Bolender of viral hit Mary Oliver joins host Paula Jenkins to share about her journey from special ed teacher to full time musician on Kona, Hawaii.
Risk and vulnerability are two key pieces of following joy and possibility in our lives. Host Paula Jenkins talks about how to find your joy, and the role the courage plays. Also a recap on the NKOTB 2017 Cruise and Donnie Wahlberg's inspiring look at joy.
In this lookback episode, Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block shares about his foundation, Remember Betty, Donnie Wahlberg and Joey McIntyre and his solo album "Look at Me." Features the single "Hold On."
Rachel Baribeau of SiriusXM's College Sports Nation and GridironNow joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her joyful and enthusiastic love of college football, her years as a sportscaster, and how she is working at Changing the Narrative across the nation.
Kelley Kosow of The Ford Institute joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her new book, The Integrity Advantage. They share about perfectionism, Debbie Ford, living in alignment, transformation, and being the change you seek in the world.
Briana and Dr Peter Borten join host Paula Jenkins to share about their new book, Rituals for Transformation. Learn about creating your own sacred rituals, how to get in touch with what matters to you, and how to find enlightenment.
Christine Petty of the Free Her Spirit podcast joins the show to talk about learning to love and trust yourself, and how to connect with your own authentic spirituality. Learn about creating sacred space, discovering rituals, and exploring spirituality.
Caitlin Greer Meister is a voice actor, educational consultant, and mentor to artists. She joins host Paula Jenkins to share how you can create an authentic artistic career that provides the money, meaning, and freedom you desire.
Jorden Roper joins host Paula Jenkins to share about copywriting, working as a freelancer, starting her own business, and working with entrepreneurs.
In the Season 3 kickoff, Paula looks at ways to reconnect with joy when something you once loved doing now feels heavy.
For the season 2 finale of Jump Start Your Joy Paula Jenkins hosts a round table discussion with Kate Courageous, Michelle Ward, Laura Simms, Deb Cooperman and Sarah Von Bargen all about joy, inspiration, and self care in difficult political times.
See all of the show notes at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode101
Life coaches Julie Houghton, Liz Applegate, and Paula Jenkins take a heartfelt look at the challenges and growth of the first two years of being entrepreneurs and starting a coaching business.
This week, I’m honored to have Andi Fairbanks of the podcast Everyday Extraordinaries join me for episode 99 to share about her role as a Creative Communications Consultant. She’s a self described “idea champ,” and works with visionaries and local politicians on public campaigns.
Andi Fairbanks is an entrepreneur, podcaster, and consultant, starting her own business just about a year ago. Her work focuses on the human connection, the thing that connects all of us, and she helps visionaries to craft messages that inspire and motivate clients and audiences. She works with politicians and entrepreneurs as a Creative Communications Consultant, leveraging communications and education to teach, reach, and inspire groups to positive action.
Host Paula Jenkins looks back at the lessons learned over two years of podcasting - from creating a plan, to following passion, to learning to trust yourself, she shares all about the lessons of following a creative dream.
This week it’s my true pleasure to have Mandy Ford joining me for an interview, where she talks about following your inspiration, doodling, and becoming an illustrator. Mandy is a graphic designer, and she returned to drawing after many years after inspiration struck her in a writing class, and she found herself doodling. This led to her posting her art on Instagram, and landing a licensing deal with Home Goods only 4 months later.
In this episode, Mandy and I talk about:
- her early love of collecting rocks, Lisa Frank stickers and Poochie
- how working at a Earlham College, a Quaker seminary has changed her life and shaped her drawing
- how taking a writing class brought her back to her love of drawing
- how she got a licensing deal with Home Goods just four months after she returned to drawing
- what her creative process looks like, now
- her work with Illustrated Faith, creating scrapbooking kits
- her tips for Instagram and finding a community there
- the work she's most proud of to date (spoiler: it's being a mom to her twin boys)
- what harmony looks like for Mandy
- her thoughts on jump starting your joy - taking time to look up and notice the world around you, being kind, and giving freely to people
Read all of the show notes at jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode97
This week I’m super excited to have Sarah Shuttle joining me on the show. She’s the heart and soul behind Verity Road and the site Girl Untold. She’s a brand stylist from England who spent her twenties recovering from alcoholism, anorexia, binge eating and self-harm. She dove deep into healing and fell in love with graphic design. In her own words, “creating visual stories led me out of darkness and into life.” This week, she shares about her journey in finding her voice, how to get past perfectionism, and getting past external expectations - Sarah’s lens is to see the cross roads of how these things tie in with your marketing and personal life, and you’ll love our conversation about all of it.
This week, Kira Sabin joins Paula Jenkins to chat about love and relationships. She’s the Troop Leader over at the League of Adventurous Singles where she encourages single women to embrace the awesomeness of singleness, take responsibility of what is “theirs,” and let go of whatever is holding them back. She leads singles to figure out what they want, how to love, making decisions based on love (not fear). She believes in adventures, and breaking down walls, and revising mindset and confidence as the building blocks of discovering a relationship that feels right.
The other thing we chat about, at the beginning of our discussion is our deep seated love of Judy Blume, and of Anne of Green Gables. Kira has worked on a cruise ship, visited Prince Edward Island (Anne’s home), and she and I get into the debate of which is better? The 1985 version of “Anne of Green Gables” or the brand new “Anne with an E” that is now out on Hulu? The votes are in and you’ll have to listen to hear the reviews.
See all the shownotes at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode95
This week, I’m doing a solcast about Finding Your Voice. It’s one of those things I’m super passionate about, and that is at the center of my Podcasting class. Today I’m sharing 6 things to consider in finding your voice and following your passion.
- It might be easier than you think …. let it be easy
- You probably know more about the message and your voice than you are giving yourself credit for
- Start with whatever feels like the obvious thing
- If you feel lost or not sure where to start, go back to what you know
- Passion over perfection
- It’s your own message and you can do whatever you want with it
You can find out more about the show at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode94
This week, I’m thrilled to be sharing what I like to call a look back episode, highlighting a favorite past guest. Early in Season One I had the pleasure of catching up with Matt Wood, who is the voice of General Grievous and R0-GR of Star Wars, and the senior sound editor at Skywalker Sound. I love this story of how he got the role of Grievous, and what’s even more special is that Matt and I went to grade school, middle school, and high school together. And, he offers some amazing thoughts on how he sees life, based on his observations on sound theory.
Matt has worked on The Phantom Menace, The Force Awakens, Rogue One, and the upcoming film, The Last Jedi.
Learn more about this episode at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode93
This week, I’m so excited to be speaking with Zoha Abbas of the site, Multidoer. Zoha is a multipassionate creative, who works with creative people with lots of different passions and interests to move from idea into action. We talk about how to bring your creative purpose and dreams to life.
In this episode, Zoha and I talk about:
- the definition of a multidoer: a multipassionate person who is action oriented
- Zoha's journey from working in creative agencies to being a coach for creatives
- how you can break through the noise and become a multidoer
- the difference between a multipassionate and a multidoer (action!)
- our love for the Passion Planner
- Zoha's thoughts on how to jumpstart your joy: smile, honor other's time, and choosing who you spend time and energy with
Learn more at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode92
Host Paula Jenkins takes a look at the ways to reconnect with your purpose and lists five ways to find your joy in this solocast episode. She reflects on her recent interview with Paul Selig, and seeing Danielle LaPorte while touring for White Hot Truth
This week, I’ve got a very special treat for you, it’s an interview with best selling author, psychic, and medium Paul Selig, in the celebration of the release of his new book, The Book of Truth. It’s the first time I’ve had someone channel on the show, and I know you will love this discussion. It’s moving and deeply insightful.
The theme for this month, “Your Purpose.” We’ll be looking at the ways you can follow your heart to live the life of your dreams, and how to get in touch with your purpose.
In this episode, Paul and I talk about:
- his earliest sparks of joy in drama and theater
- his journey to becoming clairvoyant, clairsentient, and then telepathic and psychic
- how he built his practice as an intuitive
- how he channels, and receives the texts that he shares
- what it feels like to sit in channel with The Guides
- difference between channeling, and when he is in the role of a psychic
- if everyone has the ability to tap into channeling
- what The Guides have to say about the pursuit of joy in this life
- what it is like to honor the call of being a channel, and the impact it's had on Paul's life
- if The Guides were present in the time of Moses, based on the fact that the phrase "Here I am" is found in the Old Testament, and very similar to what The Guides share in The Book of Truth
- what balance looks, or doesn't look like, for Paul
- how to jump start joy in your life
For all of the show notes, go to the website at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode90
Career Coaches Michelle Ward and Laura Simms join host Paula Jenkins to talk about creating the career of your dreams. They share how to live past the excuses and find the spark and joy that can help you find a career or launch a business that you love. Learn all about:
- What’s brought them joy in the last year
- Their 90 Day Business Launch program and how they’ve sold out every time they’ve run it!
- What’s holding you back from following your creative dream
- What do to when you’ve got a case of the “big buts” and are having a hard time following your dream career
- How Laura and Michelle met the first time, and why putting yourself out there and taking risks is so life changing
- The amazing impact a great mastermind can have on your career and business
- How adding Spark and Comfort to your routine can help when you’re going through big changes, and how it can bring people back into their lives
- How doing the thing you love can make all the difference
- How to jump start joy in your life
See all of the show notes at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode89
Host Paula Jenkins shares four ways to find what fits in your life, exploring the work of Tara Mohr and Pema Chodron. Discover how commiting to yourself. gaining inspiration from gift goals, trusting in what calls to you, and finding a community.
This week, Andrea Scher joins me to share all about so many magical and joyful things, and how to find more of that magic and joy in your life. You may know Andrea from her blog, Superhero life, or from the popular and life changing class, Mondo Beyondo. She also just started her own podcast, The Creative Superheroes Podcast, which I have been enjoying immensely. She has an ease and a joy about her that just draws you in, and I know you’re going to love this episode because we hit it off. This week she shares all about how to live a delightful, curious, joyful superhero life.
In this episode, Andrea and I talk about:
- How creating jewelry and blogging led to her working with photography and creating a community
- How she brings as much joy and magic as possible to what she does
- Her experience with grief, and how it’s been clarifying for her, both in life and on the podcast
- That joy is about connection
- The creation of Mondo Beyondo with Jen Lemen, and how that class came about
- How to the law of attraction has played a role in her life
- How to differentiate between what you REALLY want, and what does not fit for you, based on your body based, or somatic responses
- Her recent 21 Days of Magic class, and how she’s created a magical class for people who want to access their own creativity in new ways
- All about her wish tree, which she created out of simple supplies from Staples outside her house
- That we have the choice of making our days magical and joyful
- What harmony looks like for Andrea, and how being a part time parent has opened up new ways of being for her
- How to jumpstart your joy - by listening to the little whispers, and noticing what catches your attention.
This is the third week of May’s “Finding What Fits, and I’m thrilled to have Sarah von Bargen joining me today! The theme for May is “Finding what Fits;” where we’re taking a look at how to find what feels right for you in career, money, and life. You may know Sarah from her inspiring “Yes and Yes” blog; and what you may not know is that she’s recently launched a “More Money More Happy” bootcamp, where she shares how to create a relationship with money that leads to well, more money, and more happiness. This episode is all about discovering more money and more happy, right now.
Host Paula Jenkins discusses four steps for you to find what fits in your life in this solocast episode. Following these steps will lead to more joy, happiness, and contentment in your life by working with inspiration, intention, action, and courage.
Emilie Wapnick of Puttylike joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her new book, How to Be Everything: A Guide for Those Who (Still) Don’t Know What They Want to be When They Grow Up and to talk about finding what fits for your life.
Guest Jennifer Lee, author of the Right Brain Business Plan, joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how to create a business you love, one that is built with heart and respect.
For episode 82, I’m super excited to revisit the interview with Holly Becker. You probably know her from decor8, the very popular interior design blog that she started a decade ago. She has inspired me and countless other bloggers and creative people to share their voice with the world, and led the charge in celebrating your unique voice.
Jewelry Designer and Entrepreneur Kris Nations joins host Paula Jenkins in this look back episode to share about how she has found time in her life to balance the priorities of having a family and starting and running a business.
This week, rounding out Courage Month, I’m joined by Kate Courageous. She’s a life coach, creator of the Courageous Living Coach Certification, the Coaching Blueprint, and the author of Your Courageous Life. I’ve worked with Kate for the last couple of years as a mentor coach in her coach certification program, and she is a powerhouse of knowledge, and as she says “Practicing Courage is her expertise, Teaching others to make courage a habit is her vocation.” Kate joins me this week to share all about the the four steps of habit creation, and how courage and neuroscience can impact your ability to form new habits. She and I always have an amazing time together and I know you’ll want to catch this interview.
Guest Stephanie Dalfonzo joins Paula Jenkins to talk about choosing love over fear, choosing joy, the law of attraction, joy as the highest level of emotions, how to face stress and anxiety, and a breathing practice for stress.
Deirdre Fentem of Little Red Promotions joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about the courage it takes to market yourself, and how to make yourself shine in social media. She shares about becoming an entrepreneur, and working in anti-human trafficking.
Host Paula Jenkins shares about Saying Yes to Courage, and the four ways to follow courage in your life. She weaves in examples of the courage displayed by the lead character of Moana in this fun & light hearted look at courageously following your heart.
Guest Iman Gatti joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about the courage of facing trauma and grief, and share her own journey of being orphaned at age 6, to go on to become a coach, grief recovery counselor, and motivational speaker.
In this episode, we talk about:
- Alexis’ early interest in anything creative that merged with the natural world around her
- How society has found itself in a space where we are frightened by anything that seems different
- That we need to extend our hands as friends and embrace our human neighbors
Judaism’s history of struggle, and basis in a search for ethics
- How we can see the historical message in sacred text and look to apply it to todays world
- That the Quran (also spelled Qu’ran or Koran) is centered in love, and teaches that faith comes with a cultural lens
- That the sacred texts of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam all reflect the time in which they were written; but also give direction in living a life based in love for all people, with a core teaching of loving one’s neighbor as oneself
- That Christianity, Judaism, and Islam all share the same base teachings, found in the Old Testament
- How to go about learning more about a religion you may be curious about
Get all of the show notes at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode75
This week, I’m really thrilled to have Helen McLaughin on the show. She’s a curiosity coach, and in the last two years she’s gone from having a 9 to 5 job as an executive assistant to being a coach, getting married, and living full time on the road. I wanted to talk to her about what it’s like, finding a foundation while living a life that is constantly in motion. I know you’ll love hearing her answer!
In this episode we talk about:
- Helen’s love of creating and making books as “places for stories to live” as a little girl
- How growing up as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) meant she found joys in places that were safe and comfortable for her, with her family
- How she shed the worry of doing everything right, by “reframing it all as an experiment”
- Curiosity as a foundation for life and work
- Traveling for her husband’s work, and living on the road in an RV
- Writing as a foundation and touchstone each week, no matter where she is
- How her business (and mine) felt natural, as we both followed what felt natural and fun
- How having a weekly newsletter has been grounding, week to week
- That creating, connecting, and moving each day supports harmony
Get all the show notes and links at jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode74
I now see this as an early way of setting a foundation of joy in my life. As I actively sought out, and said yes to the things that were coming from a place of love, I was also choosing joy. I was choosing joy and inviting it further into my life.
And this is what creating a foundation of joy is all about. It’s recognizing that you make a choice to seek out joy, and you make a choice to include joy in your life.
And why is this important?
Because setting up a foundation of joy is setting up a new kind of basis by which you can live your life.
When you’re choosing joy as a foundation, it helps build a solid base for your whole world and your whole reality. It started helping me see things in a new light. Because unlike a standard lens of judging things on being successful or a failure, joy has an application no matter your outcome. You could succeed in your goals and feel joy, but you can also fall short of a goal, and be able to find joy in your life despite the fact that you may not have met your outward facing goal.
Briana Borten and Dr. Peter Borten join host Paula Jenkins to talk about how to create the foundations of joy using structure, sweetness, and space. The Bortens are the authors of a new book, the Well Life.
Connie Curtis joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about gluten free living, and how to thrive and love a gluten free life style. Connie is a allergy and gluten free specialist.
This week is a solocast about a mashup of things: first, Paula shares about her experience at the Women’s March this last weekend in San Francisco, and then dives into the importance of taking time each year to take inventory of your life, see what’s working, and do what she likes to call, some “pruning.”
Here are the five ways of crafting your most awesome year yet, from this episode:
- Do you have room on your plate?
- What is it that you want to do with this one, precious life?
- What do you want the focus of this year to be?
- What have you created in the past that now needs new room, in the present?
- What is your word for the year?
See all the notes at www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/episode70
Guest Deb Cooperman joins host Paula Jenkins to share about journaling as a great way to get in touch with the true you. She explains how to start journaling each day, how to get past blocks, and how it's a great tool for people in the new year.
Jo Casey joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about mindfulness. Jo also shares about her journey starting a coaching business, and how new coaches navigate the territory of becoming an entrepreneur. Full notes: bit.ly/joyep68
In the midst of the shifting world events, I’ve felt weighed down recently. In this episode, I’ll talk about how it takes real courage to follow a muse like Joy in hard times, and following joy, and love, and our own hearts is more important now, than ever before. I’ve spent a lot of time mulling over why joy has felt so awkward recently, and why it still beckons me on. And, I’ve found a lot of uplifting quotes and thoughts from others to share with you, too.
- Define what’s true for you - regardless of what else may feel uncertain, what do you know is true for you, right now?
- Take comfort that it’s perfectly OK (and natural) to grieve or feel sadness at the same time as you feel excitement or joy.
- Take action: joy is an act of defiance and self care
- Take action: caring for others spreads joy
- Baby steps: Joy builds more joy. Little Bits of joy brought to life make room for more joy in your life
- Look at joy in a new way: explore what joy looks like at the crossroads of whatever else you’re feeling
I'm so thrilled to have Danny Williams and Steven Hundal join me for this episode to share all about the play they will be starring in at the Children's Creativity Theater in San Francisco entitled "Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)." Danny and Steven are both multi-passionate, renaissance souls. These guys juggle work and families, and are putting on this play to support charities for the holidays. They truly have made a commitment to joyfully uplifting others during the holidays.
Rosie Williams joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her newly published book Repurposed Faith: Breathing New Life into Your Quiet Time.
In this flashback episode, Amber and Brady Black of the art site Serious Creatures join host Paula Jenkins to discuss their work as educational directors of Home of Hope Lebanon, where they teach abandoned and abused, and refugee children.
I'm thrilled to have Mark Jaffe, author of "Suitcase of Happyness," as my guest. Mark is a former Walt Disney executive, and he has spent a good deal of his life looking at how to cultivate happiness. At a young age he realized that his happiest life was not something out of reach. He studied, observed, cultivated, and ultimately enjoyed an enduring happiness through a singular focus on identifying what worked and what didn’t. In this episode, Mark and I talk about how to find and pack your suitcase of happiness.
Christy Tending joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how courage and vulnerability can add depth and beauty to your life, and lead you to a place that is lovingly and completely human.
In this solocast episode, I'm diving head first into how you can find your inner calm in the midst of this chaotic Presidential Election. To set the stage, this episode is focusing on what's going on behind the emotions and intensity of this election, and what each of us can do recenter ourselves. Whether you support Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump, it's likely that you are feeling fearful about the outcome of the election. So let's take a look at what you can do, even when it feels like there aren't a lo of options.
Guest Matt Marr of the Dear Mattie Show joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about finding your muse, narrative therapy, what to do about bullying, and his work with Camp Brave Trails, a LGBTQ youth leadership camp.
Russell Hurst joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about his Star Wars in the Yard Instagram account, toy photography, his work at a news station, and how he brings joy to people every day on taking photos and telling stories on Instagram.
Michelle McQuaid joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about the science of positive psychology. We talk about grit, wellbeing, the mastery curve, and why mindfully choosing joy is good for your health.
Host Paula Jenkins shares around what failure can teach you about finding balance in your life. What happens when you label something as a "failure?" How can you get past the right and wrong thinking and see failure as a healthy thing?
Tess Blankenship joins host Paula Jenkins to share about the joys of delegation, hiring virtual teams, freelancing and entrepreneurship. We chat about creating process, and knowing when and how to hire for business growth.
Lara Heacock and Stephanie Ducharme join host Paula Jenkins to talk about courage, imperfection, perfectionism, and the vulnerability, love, and awareness it takes to drop the mask and live our true lives.
In this Season 2 opener, host Paula Jenkins and Christy Tennery-Spalding discuss balance, your internal landscape, & external processes (including breathing and meditation practices), and processes to support balance. We introduce our Roots & Wings class.
Hi friends! Welcome to Jump Start Your Joy's Top 10 of Season One. Last week, as part one of the season finale, I shared some of the most memorable moments of the last 52 weeks. This week, I'm sharing the most downloaded episodes, and sharing what made them really special. Many of the guests sent an update on "What joy has looked like for them" since we last spoke. The result is a fun, heartfelt, joyful finale to a year that has been life changing for me.
Host Paula Jenkins revisits favorite and standout memories as she looks back on a year of podcast episodes. Highlights? "Pants Drama," Nellie Oleson, Purpose vs Passion, Facing your Fear, practicing radical gratitude, acceptance, and hospitality.
I'm thrilled to have Tiffany Han, creative brand strategist for highly creative women, join me for this week's show where she shares about what saying yes to creativity and doing what you love has meant in her life. Tiffany has been a life coach, business coach, and has recently segued into working as a brand strategist. And, she's the host of the wildly popular podcast, Raise Your Hand. Say Yes.
Kris Nations, jewelry designer and small business owner, joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her inspiration in starting Kris Nations in 2004, and shares what it's like to work with her sister, and what has changed in her business over the years.
When you facing any sort of change, whether it be a something you choose (think changing careers, buying a house, etc) or something that happens to you (think losing a job, illness, losing a family member), you rely on "process" to get through the change. And before you glaze over because I'm using the coachy word "process," I encourage you to stick with me here. This stuff is actually pretty interesting! What I'm diving into here is the idea that there are really two types of process, and why it's important to recognize them and harness them to get through a change.
Host Paula Jenkins shares about how to bring your dreams to life, how to get past whatever is keeping you stuck, and the steps to start taking actiong, today.
Cam Adair of Game Quitters joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how he has dealt with video game addiction in his own life and started a community to support others wanting to live a life of purpose.
Flylady Marla Cilley joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how to form habits and routines to create more joy in your life. Lots of great ideas for keeping your home and family feeling happy and loved.
Sharon Aldeguer joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about embracing joy and living her bucket list after having brain surgery to remove a large tumor. An inspiring and love filled interview.
Paula Jenkins talks about what overwhelm is telling you, and shares the four things you should do if you feel overwhelm or anxiety in your life.
For the full show notes go to www.jumpstartyourjoy.com/overwhelm
Melissa Sue Tucker of Addiction Support Podcast and Sixty Seconds of Solitude joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about facing addiction support with love, compassion, and kindness.
Burlesque dancer Velvet O'Claire joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about purpose, passion, authenticity, femininity, sexuality, gender roles, power, and burlesque. It's a show you won't want to miss.
Julie Houghton and Liz Applegate join host Paula Jenkins to talk about connection, collaboration and community in finding support as new entrepreneurs. We also share about our mastermind group, and how it's helped us navigate starting our own businesses.
Five Ways to Add Joy to Your Life - host Paula Jenkins shares her top five ways to jump start your joy, and talks about various topics such as wellness and self care, love, gratitude, surrounding yourself with good people and following your heart.
Cory Huff of The Abundant Artist joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about how to sell art online, acting, the art of storytelling, being a multi-passionate, the inherent creativity of all people, Dungeons and Dragons, and asking inappropriate questions.
Coach Jennifer Lee of Artizen Coaching, and author of the Right Brain Business Plan joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about building a sustainable creative business.
Mayi Carles joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about her Life is Messy Planners, about being Multi-Passionate, and about the Multi-Passionate Must-Haves bundle sale. Plus, how to organize your creative mind, and thoughts on being a working mom.
Holly Becker of decor8 and Blogging Your Way joins host Paula Jenkins to talk about she started out, how to find your voice in blogging, why the world needs to hear what you have to say, and how to find your blogging niche.
Lexi Koch joins host Paula Jenkins to talk aboutbeingvulnerable, along with sharing about her own life journeyfromsocial worker, to farm manager and owner, to life coach.
It's such a pleasure to have Laura Simms join the show this week! Laura is a career Coach and an expert in meaningful work, and she's the creator of the truly amazing "Your Career Homecoming" program that helps women find work that feels like home. I really love Laura's open and easy going nature, and getting to chat with her felt like talking to a friend. She's relatable, down to earth, and the fact that she has changed careers from one that she was truly passionate about (acting), to one that feels more purposeful and rewarding (career coach), really spoke to me. I have an knack for landing plenty of jobs, and love that she helps clients focus on "the why" (the purpose, legacy, contribution, service, impact they're making) before they ever get to thinking about "the what" (abilities, strengths, things you can do), or "the how" (environment, the work pace, your leadership role, how much you're paid) of what that career looks like.
Host Paula Jenkins discusses the role of joy and purpose in our lives, and introduces the idea of "The Joy Trajectory" and your very own Inner Joy Advocate.
Mary MacCarthy of Glorious Hugs joins Paula Jenkins to talk about entrepreneurship, and her mission on creating gift care packages for senior citizens. We also speak about connection, and finding joy in your life.
Today's Cris Guillebeau joins the show to talk about discovering the work you were born to do, which is the focus of his brand new book, Born For This. Chris is the creator of the World Domination Summit, author of The $100 Start Up, The Art of Non-Conformity, and The Happiness Pursuit. He's traveled to 193 countries using travel hacking. I'm super excited to bring him on to speak about his new book, Born for This, and to talk about how joy has played a part in his journey, plus get his input on how to bring your dream into action AND ways to jump start your joy.
Today, Jordana Jaffe, a Facebook group strategist, joins me on the podcast and we chat about the magic of using Facebook groups to create a super comfy, magical business. While Jordana mostly works with women entrepreneurs who are introverts or homebodies on how to create their own super engaged Facebook group and successfully participate in other Facebook groups so that they can grow their online community and get clients while staying at home in their cozy pjs, she has a ton of great info and insights for non-introverts (like myself), too. I loved getting to talk to her about her journey, one that after multiple launches in 2013, led to her feeling disconnected from herself, and wanting to find a way that felt more authentically her in her own business. The result is a business that feels energized, and cozy.
Emilie Wapnick is the Founder, and Creative Director for Puttylike, an online home for "multipotentialites," which are people with many interests and creative pursuits. Her philosophy is that you do not have to do just one thing with your life, and that it is possible to integrate your many interests into your life. Emilie is a writer, speaker, mentor, coach, and she is currently working on a traditionally published book, as well.
Host Paula Jenkins speaks with Diane Pauley about finding heartfelt, targetted, aligned clients for your small business or entrepreneurship.
Logan Nickleson is a content marketer at an ad agency by day, and in his "spare" time, he runs Music for Makers, creating and sending out a free piece of music every monday. We chat about his business, how he finds time to do it all, and ad agencies.
Paula Jenkins, Host of Jump Start Your Joy, reflects on the lessons she's learned in the first six months of podcasting on the topic of Joy. Plus, a giveaway and the March line up of guests is announced.
Christy Tennery-Spalding joins Jump Start Your Joy as a healer, activist, writer & self-care mentor. Host Paula Jenkins chats with Christy about self care and "sacred focus," and how to find more joy in your life.
TRex Tuesdays, the hilarious dinosaurs that ice skate, flower bomb, and cheer people up every Tuesday on Facebook, join host Paula Jenkins for an exclusive interview and video. Learn how Trexes eat popcorn and which dinosaurs were the tastiest.
Author David Ramos joins Paula Jenkins to talk about his upcoming book, Enduring with Job, and other stories of hope and truth in the Old Testament.
TV Producer Josh Davis joins the podcast to talk about his journey, including working on "What Would You Do?" and "The Rossen Report" on the Today Show. He shares about saying yes to following your dreams.
Liz Ross, CEO of Periscope joins Jump Start Your Joy to talk about heartfelt leadership. We talk about accountability, transparency, people-first leadership, how to create and lead great teams, and how one shares about their life as successful leader.
Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block joins Jump Start Your Joy to talk about his new album, Look at Me. He shares about how his mother, Betty, who passed away in 1999 continues to inspire him, and about his work with his foundation, Remember Betty.
Marla Cilley, also know as the Flylady, is back for a second episode! In this edition, Marla dives into how to do the Flylady method of zone cleaning your home, and how to work through the days of the week to stay organized. We got to talk about a lot of fun and easy ideas to keep your home and life organized. Plus, Marla shares about the inspiration for her next book near the end of the episode, and I got goosebumps when she told me about her visit to the National Shrine of Saint Therese. It's an inspiring and amazing story, and one that you will NOT want to miss :)
If you have not yet listened to the first episode, you can find it here.
I'm so excited to share this second hour with Marla for today's episode as part of the "Loving your 2016" series. I'm really honored that she shared about her upcoming book, and just blown away by her lovely story around her time in the chapel.
In this episode, we talk about:
- how she breaks out the zones to cleaning your home
- the theme for each day of the week, when using the Flylady method
- how to approach having your mother in law come over (enlist her help in cleaning!)
- how admitting you need help, and welcoming it, and how that changes your view point
- what she keeps in her closet to give as gifts should an event come up
- planning out big family vacations, (calendar party)
- how to create a relaxed environment around timing when family is leaving
- her plans for live events in the spring
- revisiting her trip to San Mateo, CA a few years ago
- her writing process for her new spiritual book, including her visit to the chapel of St Therese
- how Sink Reflections got it's name
- a few thoughts on saints
Flylady.net - Marla's website
The National Shrine Museum of St Therese
Marla is the author of "Body Clutter," and "Sink Reflections," both are best sellers, and I can not recommend them highly enough.
Sink Reflections - Marla's first book (on Amazon)
Body Clutter - Marla's second book (on Amazon)
Eric Dodge, Why Not Today (on Amazon)
How do you find peace in your life?
The post Episode 19: Flylady Marla Cilley on Finding Joy in Everything You Do appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Marla Cilley, founder of Flylady.net, is a true inspiration. I found her site over ten years ago, as I was going through a divorce and knew I needed to find a way to take care of myself and my home. I had started the search, thinking that I simply needed to find ways to clean and declutter, and to get my life back on track. What I found was Marla's loving wisdom, her "Flying lessons," her support, a lot of humor, a fun community, and a renewed sense of who I was. For this, I'm grateful.
I'm so honored to have Marla as a guest for today's episode as part of the "Loving your 2016" series. It was a true joy to speak with her, and to spend time soaking up her love and joy-filled philosophy. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the state of your home, or you've made organizing your life a priority for this year, I encourage you to listen, and to visit Flylady.net for more resources. She offers all of this for free - and you are in for such a treat.
In this episode, we talk about:
- how Marla arrived at her current zone cleaning process, including the overwhelming amount of cards and lists that she started with, trying to "perfect" an organization process
- shining your sink, what it is, and how that changed Marla's life
- that two resolutions that started everything
- Marla's take on the word perfect (and how she corrects me when I use it!)
- the food addiction, and why foods evoke memories and provide an endorphin rush. (along with why Mac n Cheese was Marla's go to food when she got stressed, and why I run for peanut butter and chocolate).
- an easier way to clean your bathtub
- a great way to keep bathtub toys stored, and Flylady's first viral post on facebook
- making cleaning fun
- why having a wall calendar is important for organization and teaching our children
- why Marla calls "jobs" or chores "blessings"
- why it's important to release things that don't bring you joy
- the power and importance of complimenting other people
Flylady.net - Marla's website
Marla is the author of "Body Clutter," and "Sink Reflections," both are best sellers, and I can not recommend them highly enough.
Sink Reflections - Marla's first book (on Amazon)
Body Clutter - Marla's second book (on Amazon)
Eric Dodge, Why Not Today (on Amazon)
Pam Young and Peggy Jones card file system (Side Tracked Home Executives) on Amazon
The post Episode 18: Flylady Marla Cilley on Finally Loving Yourself appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Brooke-Sidney Jackson is the founder and CEO of "Bella and The Babe," a website that has resources and support for authentic mothering. She is the author of the brand new "Mama Love Planner" and offers Joy and Empowerment sessions for mothers, and women hoping to become mothers. In the past, Brooke-Sidney has been a lawyer, a journalist, and she now works full time for herself, encouraging, guiding, and offering support to other women.
I sensed right away that Brooke-Sidney and I had so much in common. We met a few years ago, when we were both leading (in)courage groups and discovered we lived only 30 minutes from each other. It has been a complete joy to catch up with her on this podcast episode. I think you will love her wisdom around so many hot mama topics, and her very loving and sensible approach to how to listen to what YOU want as a mother, instead of listening to what others think is right for you and your child, and your family. I walked away feeling more empowered, more focused, and ready to be more authentic in my own mothering choices.
In this episode, Brooke-Sidney and I talk about:
- getting away from making mothering decisions based on what other people say, and focusing on what feels right to you
- how to deal with some of the hot mama topics of breast-feeding, cry it out, male circumcision, co-sleeping, car seats in a way that feels authentic to you
- that it's OK to change your mind on parenting techniques, or change or direction as your child grows
- the major changes that mothers go through from the beginning
- the importance of self care for moms, and how self care can take just 15 minutes a day
- that going after your dreams and goals is even more important once you are a mom, as it sets an example for successes and how to handle failures for children.
- our hopes and dreams for our sons' generation
- how Brooke-Sidney created her own Mama Love Planner, after not being able to find a planner that assisted with both scheduling and self care
- the impact of a gratitude practice: take stock of at least three things that you're grateful for each day, a practice that goes hand in hand with bringing more joy and contentment in your life
- why putting your dreams down on paper helps you reach them, and why doing a brain dump helps free up room in your head to do other things
Resources:
Order your Mama Love Planner on Brooke-Sidney's site - click here.
Visit Brooke-Sidney Jackson's website: Bella and the Babe
San Damiano Retreat - set up your personal retreat and request spiritual direction
The post Episode 17: Authentic Mothering with Brooke-Sidney Jackson appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
In this episode, I walk you through setting heart centered goals using my own "Ten in Three" method. In short, you check in with your heart, listening for what you want to do over the next few years, and then you narrow down what you hear to ten things you want to do over the next three years.
If you're feeling like you want to tackle some new things in the coming year, I encourage you to try this Heart Centered Goals method. The benefit of this method is that you aren't going to be tackling an enormous list of "resolutions," instead you'll be focused on working towards just three big things. It feels more like a choice, and less like a compromise. And, for that reason, I think you'll find that your heart centered goals stick in a way that resolutions never do.
About 18 months ago, I was looking to make a lot of changes in my life. I had just signed up for a program to become certified as a life coach, and there was something about that decision that made me feel like it was time to "put my house in order." I came up with this methodology, and it worked. Not to glorify the art of busy (far from it!), in the last two years I've gotten married, gotten certified as a life coach, led 3 in person retreats and set up and led a 10 speaker online retreat, started a podcast, launched a business, worked full time, and had time for my five year old son and husband.
The thing at the heart of this is what I call the "Ten in Three." It's the ten things you want to do over the next three years. It works because it's simple. It works because you start with your heart.
In this episode, I talk about:
- A different way to set goals, using a heart centered approach
- why the original "SMART" method for goal setting doesn't work for everyone
- how different people have different temperaments
- that depending on your personality, you may do better holding yourself accountable (and totally resist having the traditional "accountability buddy")
- my own way of setting and reaching goals
- why you should write your goals down
- why flexibility is important with goals
- how to set a narrow, defined list of goals over the next three years
- why fewer goals are better, even when (especially when) you want to accomplish a lot over a year
Resources:
Ten in Three Worksheet that accompanies this episode
Gretchen Rubin's Better Than Before: What I Learned About Making and Breaking Habits--to Sleep More, Quit Sugar, Procrastinate Less, and Generally Build a Happier Life on Amazon
Gretchen Rubin on Lewis Howes' School of Greatness
SMART methodology for setting goals
Kathleen Davies, Episode 1 of Jump Start Your Joy
Debbie Ford's The Dark Side of the Light Chasers on Amazon
"Relaxing" music track by Bensound used during visualization exercise
The post Episode 16: Setting Heart Centered Goals appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Alison Arngrim played Nellie Oleson for seven years on the hit show, Little House on the Prairie. She is often described as the "acid tongued hellcat" of the show, the small villain with golden ringlets and lovely clothing, and the arch-enemy of Laura Ingalls. Alison and I jumped on the phone for a little over an hour, and all I can say is that it was one of the most fast paced, hilarious, and engaging hours I've ever experienced.
Alison shared a good deal about her book, "Confessions of a Prairie Bitch," and we spent time chatting about her childhood and landing the fabled role of Nellie Oleson. What really stood out in our time together is Alison's true appreciation and gratitude for the role that Nellie eventually played in her own life. As a shy child, a child that was being sexually and physically abused at home, playing Nellie instantly pushed Alison into a role that changed her, and made her more courageous. Since then, the role has given her a platform, allowed her to help charities that assist abused children and AIDS patients, and more recently, allowed her to start speaking about issues that women face in her lecture "More Than Just Surviving."
I want thank Alison for her time - speaking with her was an inspiration. I know you're going to love this episode, and if you do, I encourage you to check out her book Confessions of a Prairie Bitch on Amazon. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it before she and I spoke.
In this episode, Alison shares about:
- making people laugh as a child
- possibly "retiring" from acting at age 11 prior to getting the role of Nellie
- her realization that the role of Nellie was very different than the other hyper-sweet children she often read for
- the instant change of how people reacted to her in public after Little House on the Prairie first aired
- why she thinks Little House on the Prairie is so popular throughout the world
- Michael Landon, and how he created plot lines for the show
- Melissa Gilbert is now running for Congress in Michigan
- her amazing friendship with Melissa Gilbert
- the best way to find a good date
- how she met her husband Bob at the AIDS Project Los Angeles
- the "Pocket Nellie"
- leveraging fame and people's love of Nellie to help others
- her upcoming line of scented candles and a ceramic pony
- how to sign up for the Nellie Newsletter
- her upcoming lectures with Petersen Productions
- working with Girl Cave in Huntington Beach
- a hint about her second book!
Upcoming Events (as of 12/15/2015):
- January 30, 2016 Prairie-Oke - Karoake - a one night event
- March 19, 2016 Nite of Dreams Little House on the Prairie Tribute Dinner
References
Alison Arngrim's Bonnetheads.com website (sign up for the Nellie Newsletter here)
Nite of Dreams website (sign up for the Tribute Dinner)
The Girl Cave in Huntington Beach
Alison Arngrim's Book, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch on Amazon
I am an Amazon affiliate. Links on this page (ones to items I truly love and recommend) may earn me a commission.
The post Episode 15: Alison Arngrim on Beyond Surviving: Embracing the Gifts of Nellie Oleson appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Rachael Maddox is the recent author of the book "Secret Bad Girl" in which shares her own journey. Subtitled "How I broke my long-standing sexual trauma spell and grew vibrant, vital & free. A provocative memoir & wildly wise resolution guide," her book relays her story, and offers insights on how anyone under the trauma spell can reach full recovery. Rachael is a coach, a singer and songwriter, and a teacher, plus she's funny, real, and so genuine. While it's a tough topic, we both laugh plenty and share how joy really IS possible, even after living through a traumatic event (Rachael's past trauma being sexual trauma, mine being PTSD related to childbirth).
In this episode, Rachael outlines some of her findings in researching how to resolve sexual trauma. She shares that trauma is something stored in the body, the result of a person's fight, flight, or freeze response not being fully resolved after the initial trauma incident. In her work, which involves extensive coaching, training, and research, she's found that resolving sexual trauma is something best done through somatic (body) work. Her approach is heartfelt, genuine, and something she's lived through.
Rachael had a successful kickstarter, and her book is now available for download on Amazon starting 1/19/16.
In this episode, Rachael talks about:
- what trauma is, and how it remains in your body long after the trauma event
- the definition of a trauma spell or trauma cloud
- different kinds of trauma, such as post traumatic stress disorder and rape trauma
- Rachael's path to healing, which started at Adult Circus camp
- suggestions for addressing trauma in your own life
- Rachael's Dream Tour around the US this last summer
- her song, "live" on the podcast, "Shake"
- where I fess up about one of my core desired feelings being "enraptured" and Rachael's insights on how rapture means to "be your longing"
- the Celestine Prophecy of Everything (Rachael's take on her role in the world)
Resources:
Rachael's website at RachaelMaddox.com
Sign up for the 12/22/15 webinar episode to work on your 2016 goals
Episode 10: Molly Larkin (I reference this in the interview)
Peter Levine's book, Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma
(on Amazon)
Danielle LaPorte's book The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul (Core Desired Feelings) (on Amazon)
The post Episode 14: Secret Bad Girl: A Journey of Sexual Trauma Resolution with Rachael Maddox appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Tabitha Marie is the amazing and loving founder of "Random Acts of Luvmail," a family run organization that provides mail and goodie bags to children who are in the hospital or need to be uplifted for any reason. Tabitha started the organization in 2007 and it has moved from New Orleans to San Antonio, Texas, where she and her sister and daughter work together to create, package, and send Luvmail to three hospitals and across the country via mail. I really loved speaking with Tabitha - her inspiring story and loving way of spreading encouragement and positivity are so welcoming. I know that you will feel rejuvenated just from hearing her explain her outlook and passion for Luvmail and the children she serves.
What I love about Tabitha's work is that it is truly heart centered, and it is simple. She provides Luvmail to children going though difficult times because she wants to encourage them, and their parents, and let them know that someone out there cares about them. She and her sister and daughter intentionally focus on sending items that are flat and can be mailed, so they can maximize the number of children they reach. The simplicity is striking: spreading joy can be as easy as sending a letter, and by taking a few extra moments to reach out to others. You can help her organization by visiting thePayPal Me site for Random Acts of Luvmail (to make a donation)
In our discussion, Tabitha also talks about how running her organization has become easier, and more focused, as she's narrowed down the mission. She's gotten closer to God, she's become clear on what she wants, and who Luvmail serves, all of which has come with time, and experience. Her insights here are especially inspiring and re-assuring to anyone starting their own business or tackling a new mission. It can take time to feel comfortable, and time to grow into the role.
I'm so grateful to Tabitha for sharing her story and her insights on the podcast. Thank you, Tabitha!
In this episode, Tabitha shares:
- who Fairie Marie and Faire JoJo are
- how Faire Marie came about as a response to someone being bullied
- where and how Luvmail started
- the decision change how Luvmail operated so they can reach more people
- how it was stressful starting a community on MySpace
- how everything fell into place once Tabitha got clearer on her mission, and closer to God
- insights on how shifting to coming from a place of love has changed everything
- the ways Tabitha takes care of herself - meditation, cooking, and relaxing
- her recent coverage on the local news
- how sometimes just asking for something can make all the difference
- that meeting one of the children in the hospital was the highlight of running Luvmail
- why Tabitha feels you should just go for your dreams (and not let other people's fears get in your way)
Resources
Tabitha's blog: Luvmail.org
Luvmail Community on Facebook
PayPal Me site for Random Acts of Luvmail (to make a donation)
Tabitha's appearance on the San Antonio news
The post Episode 13: Blessing Children with Random Acts of Luvmail with Tabitha Marie appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Today's episode is about Joy, Transformation and Self Acceptance, and it's my first "Solocast!" I've really loved getting to know so many of you through this blog, and the journey of the past few months has been completely uplifting. As I've mentioned in passing on other episodes, I've had a list of people that I wanted to interview for years ... and finding a home to interview them here, in a podcast format, has been just amazing.
Joy is the platform here, but there's so much more behind joy ... and I think that's why I love talking about it every week. I firmly believe that every person hits a stage in their life where they are challenged, either by physical, mental, emotional, monetary, creative challenges, each that have the potential to shake you to your core. In those hard times, you have a choice. You can choose to become engulfed in your circumstances, or you can choose to fight for joy, for love, for something that matters to you. To get there, you've got to accept yourself, right where you are. It takes embracing your shadow side, the scary parts, the stuff that you don't want to look at or admit. Acceptance is a step, even simply accepting you want or need help is a step.
I've had my own dance with hard times. In this podcast I reference my 56 hour labor, followed by a C-section, at the birth of my son. This threw me for a curve that I didn't expect. No birth class covers the "what happens when Plan A falls apart, Plan B becomes laughable, and Plan C wasn't even written yet." I'm sure you've been through this somewhere, somehow in your own life. There are times when even with the most thorough of planning, (and in the words of Pema Chodron), things fall apart.
It's that moment, or those moments, when there's not much left to hold on to, where you define who you are. Sure, it hurts, sure it sucks, sure, you can be as mad at the world, the universe, at God, as you've ever been. But that doesn't change anything, it doesn't further the cause. It doesn't get you any closer to living or loving, or doing whatever it was you came here to do. Mad is easy, and mad has it's place, but it's not a destination.
One of the things that kept me going in those moments was the quote by Meg Cabot, "Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the judgement that something is more important than fear." That and some amazing spiritual and personal stories that I will share at another time, later, when they are ready to be told.
In my case, I came out of that situation with PTSD. I could sense my own ability to deal with reality just outside my grasp. I could feel that I had to fight harder than I'd ever fought for anything in my life, just to get me back. And all the while I was trying so hard not to let the feelings that "I failed at this birth, I let myself down, my own body couldn't do what it was supposed to do" take over. (And if you're in that place, in any way, I want you to know that those things are just not true. Those are such painful thoughts. You're OK, you are loved, you are cherished.) Truly, I had to know my core, and chose to fight for joy. Joy wasn't really within my reach, I knew that, but it was still out there. So I got curious, I started asking why. I found a really good therapist. None of that could have happened if I hadn't accepted myself, where I was, accepted that at my core I knew I could fight and this was the time to dig deeper than I even knew I could.
I think each of us is wired for joy. We are wired to find our way back home. That's what the story of this podcast ultimately is, that fight for joy, that pursuit of purpose, even when it's hard, even when it seems nearly improbable. For joy, transformation, and self acceptance. We need these stories, and we need to know joy is possible. Because it is.
This post is part of the "Weeks of Self" series coordinated by Theresa at Thrive Within.
In this podcast I talk about:
Amber and Brady Black are a married couple currently living in Beirut, Lebanon, and they are a true inspiration. Having grown up and met, in the United States, they decided to move to the Middle East to teach. The first five years abroad were not easy, and Amber found herself fighting depression, which she courageously shares about in our interview. After some discussion, they decided that they needed to leave the gulf region. In a series of synchronous events, a friend of a friend mentioned that there was an opening at "Home Of Hope" in Beirut, which is a home for abandoned and abused children in Lebanon. Amber and Brady went for a visit, and knew in their hearts that they had to teach there.
Brady had been interested in art in his younger years, and returned to it when things had gotten hard; in drawing whimsical art for a friend who wanted note cards to put in her children's lunches, something magical was born. Brady realized he had an outlet for his creativity, and it tapped into the imagination of the children and parents that saw it. When more requests came for note cards, Amber and Brady realized they had the beginnings of a business, one that brought joy to them and others, brought more purpose them as a couple, and helped Amber feel a sense of belonging and connection as she came out of her depression.
Joy and love is the through-line for Amber and Brady's work at Home of Hope, Lebanon, as well. They work with children who have been abandoned, abused, that are refugees, who have been on the streets, some have been involved in prostitution. At the Home, Amber and Brady teach the children, but it becomes so clear in the interview, they also meet each of these children right where they are, provide a consistent presence in their lives, and love them.
I adored getting to know Amber and Brady - they are funny, passionate, open, and so dedicated to both Serious Creatures and Home of Hope. I loved hearing about how Brady's passion for drawing and imagination truly changed their lives, and how both of them said "yes" to starting a business when the idea presented itself. And, I loved hearing about how much they love working with the kids in Beirut. I know you'll enjoy getting to know them, too.
In this interview we talk about:
- How Amber and Brady met at college, and have "been married every since"
- What it was like to move to Oman from Texas
- How Amber faced depression when she moved to Oman, and how she felt culturally isolated
- How art, imagination, and hope changed their lives, and started a company
- How Serious Creatures got it's name (hint: there's some Harry Potter magic involved!)
- The way they were introduced to Home of Hope
- What it's like to teach children of various ages and various levels of educational background
- How they strike a balance of taking care of themselves while working with children from difficult backgrounds
- Their kickstarter with Serious Creatures (Serious Starters)
- What it was like for Brady to see children reacting to his art for the first time
- What's next for them and Serious Creatures
Resources
Serious Creatures Website
Serious Creatures sign up page to learn about their after Thanksgiving sale
Serious Creatures Instagram
Serious Creatures Kickstarter
Home of Hope Lebanon Facebook page
The post Episode 11: Hope, Love, and Serious Creatures with Amber and Brady Black appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
In this episode I had the pleasure of talking to Molly Larkin about meeting addiction with loving kindness. Molly is a dear. I remember meeting her for the first time in January and being impressed with her presence. Strong, comforting, welcoming. She's the kind of person who makes you feel at ease and OK in your own skin. Learning that Molly is a registered nurse and a certified life coach, makes sense, she is so undoubtedly in her element in the work that she does.
What I find remarkable about this interview is the way she dives right in and we talk about "hard stuff" - addiction, eating disorders, ego, and self worth. In the same instance, Molly exudes humor, love, and acceptance. I truly enjoyed our conversation, and I'm so glad that we have crossed paths.
In this episode, Molly and I talk about:
- Her experience with addiction and an eating disorder
- How "maitri" (loving kindness) has been a key to her unlocking painful thoughts
- "The Work" of Byron Katie
- The ego's role in painful thoughts
- How to return to joy, even when the ego is running the show, and one is stuck n the midst of painful thoughts
- Molly's work with clients, and how to begin freeing oneself from addiction
I'm super excited that Molly is one of our speakers for the Dream Into Action Retreat running this weekend (November 13-14, 2015). Sign up here.
Resources for this show:
Molly Larkin's website
Read Molly's post on eating disorders
Dream Into Action registration site.
CCTP Website and registration (tell Kate that Molly & Paula sent you)
Byron Katie's book "Loving What Is" - my favorite of her books, on Amazon - it's simply brilliant and I know you'll love it!
I am an Amazon affiliate. Links on this page (ones to items I truly love and recommend) may earn me a commission.
The post Episode 10: Molly Larkin Speaks About Meeting All things with Loving Kindness appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Franny Burkey is a baker, shop co-owner, and pastry maker at the dreamy "Franny's Cup and Saucer" in Point Arena, California. She whips up gorgeous cakes, delicious donuts, some amazing gluten free treats, all while working with her mom (and co-owner), Barbara. The shop itself feels like the embodiment of joy, with it's sweet gifts, tasty treats, and loving atmosphere. When I started creating my list of who I wanted to interview for Jump Start Your Joy, Franny Burkey was definitely one of the first names I wrote down.
And, Franny herself is really one of the most joyous and endearing folks I've ever met, and so it was a real treat to get to chat with her for a bit about her childhood, her outlook on life (and business), and what she loves about her work.
In this interview, you'll hear about:
- Franny's childhood, growing up in Northern California, and having two parents in the food industry
- How Franny comes up with flavors for her delicious Friday donuts<
- How Franny and her Mom work together, and run the bakery
- The secret of how Franny gets up early, and her positive outlook on why it's not "so bad"
- What she does to relax, including mixed martial arts and running
- How they've established what to buy for their shop in a small town, and what their ideal price point is
- How many wedding cakes Franny makes in a year, and why she loves working on wedding cakes
- My own wedding cake and how Franny designed the cake for our four year old son (with a robot, rabbit, Yoda, and Lightning McQueen)
Resources
Franny's Cup and Saucer website
Franny's Cup and Saucer Facebook page (check out the donuts here)
Sunset Eating Up the West Coast from Amazon (Franny has two recipes in this 2015 book)
The song I mention at the very end of the interview, with a correction, the song is by Clint Black.
*I am an Amazon affiliate. Links on this page (ones to items I truly love and recommend) may earn me a commission.
The post Episode 9: Franny Burkey on Being Kind, Being Positive, and Nourishing Joy appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Kate Swoboda, or Kate Courageous, is a one of a kind coach, mentor, and the creator of the Courageous Coaching Training Program. She has also created the Coaching Blueprint, and a program for individuals, Your Courageous Life. I recently graduated from CCTP (Courageous Coaching Training Program), and found my time in the program to be inspiring, intense, and life changing.
It was a little over a year ago that I first got on a call with Kate to chat about joining CCTP. Getting on that call, I was scared to death I would not make the cut. Truth be told, over the last year in the program, I've wrestled a good deal with those feelings that I'm either not good enough, or don't deserve the good things that come my way. But this was different, Kate wanted to truly understand who I "be," and how I wanted to connect with others. I knew from that first call that the program was a fit, and that Kate was different, in the very best of ways, that she saw potential in people, that she was all heart, and that she was as courageous as her name suggests. In other words, CCTP was the real deal and it was the right program for me.
Now a year later, I was super happy that Kate agreed to jump on a call for an interview. Again I was nervous, but this time, it was because I was in the driver's seat. Not that a client can't interview their coach (heck, I interviewed my former coach, and now buddy, Michelle just a couple of episodes ag). But I had heartfelt questions about the program I'd just graduated from, I wanted Kate to know I respected her and all that she's done. And, OK, I kind of nerded out and loved that I GOT to talk about Pema Chodron with the very person who'd introduced her to me. Mostly, though, I wanted her to feel at home on my podcast.
I think you'll like this interview; Kate is a powerhouse and I am honored to have her on the show. In this episode we talk about:
- what to do when "things fall apart" in your life; and how to deal with the emotions that come up
- what to do if you've been working on personal development for a while, but it doesn't seem to stick
- how to approach being an entrepreneur
- that you "take yourself with you" wherever you go, including your corporate job, or to your own business
- how she approached creating the Courageous Coaching Training Program
- Kate's definitions of fear and courage
- what keeps her going, and what she loves about being an entrepreneur
- what it's like to be a "new-ish" mother
Resources for this show:
Kate's website: Your Courageous Life
Coaching Blueprint: Marketing course for coaches
Courageous Coaching Training Program (tell Kate that Paula sent you)
Dream Into Action Retreat - running 11/13-15 - sign up for the "Love Notes" to get information on how to win a free spot!
The book "Getting There" by Gillian Zoe Segal on Amazon
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron on Amazon
Walking the Walk by Pema Chodron on Amazon
One of the sound clips in this episode is brought to you by http://www.bensound.com
I am an Amazon affiliate. Links on this page (ones to items I truly love and recommend) may earn me a commission.
The post Episode 8: Kate Swoboda on ‘Courage as a Path to Healing’ appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
In today's episode, I interview Earl Rivard, a musician, songwriter, and retreat leader. Earl has released three CDs, and is currently studying to be an operatic singer. In addition to his work in music, he leads retreats, and he and I have worked together for the past decade. Earl loves stories, loves the places where the sacred and story and life come together. He is a troubadour in the classic sense, with the roots of his his art in his mother's native Argentina, while singing around campfires, with friends and family, always with community.
It was fun interviewing someone I know so well, and I learned a ton about Earl's background and his interests. Thank you, Earl, for your friendship, your inspiration, your music, and for joining me on Jump Start Your Joy.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
- how being blind has formed his personality and shaped him
- how a trip to South America during high school introduced him to the joy of music
- Earl's advice on recording your own album, and what his secret weapon has been
- his happiest childhood memories
- his time in an A cappella group at UC Berkeley, and how he sees A cappella music as a metaphor for life
- his faith and how that has transformed him
- Earl's ideas on how to bring your dream into action
Links
Earl Rivard's website
Links to purchase Earl's CDs
A Playlist of Earl's music on YouTube
The post Episode 7: Musician Earl Rivard on Sharing Stories through Song and Music appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Jann Cather Weaver is an associate professor emerita of worship and theology and the arts at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. She's an ordained minister, and has served parishes in Wisconsin and Missouri. A published author, and a former Yale Divinity School professor, Jann and I met at Yale, where she taught one of the most memorable courses I took in my master's program, "The Theology of Art and Film."
This interview was a true delight, for so many reasons. Jann's ministry has been a beautiful dance of art, of exploring the human condition, and of looking for divine communication through many lenses, and many art forms, including photography, music, and film. She is a welcoming presence, and at the same time, a powerful force, truly comfortable in her own person, and yet pushing out toward the radical edge of theological education. It's a joy to witness how she's followed her own heart in pursuing theology and the arts, "not because Ithought there was a career there, but because it was (for lack of a better word) my passion. I could do no other than that."
I hope that you will take a listen, and soak up her words; her journey is one of an artist honing her craft, and I very much resonated with her words about finding a vocation, about pursuing dreams, and about extending radical love, acceptance, and hospitality to all of the creation.
In this episode we talk about:
- Jann's journey to earning her MDiv (Master's of Divinity) at Eden Seminary
- how a T5 tornado that struck Barneveld Wisconsin in 1984 changed her life, and the trajectory of her ministry
- about her time at Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California
- how careers change over time, and how the question of "good enough" may crop up more than once in the course of one's life
- Boy George, Torch Song Trilogy, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert - and a paper I wrote at grad school
- Lars and the Real Girl, and the theology of this 2007 film starring Ryan Gosling
- Jann's most recent courses, and future plans
- Jann's answer to how to jump start your own joy
And here are the links to download the show or subscribe via iTunes and Stitcher:
Links:
Eden Theological Seminary
Acts 2: the Story of Pentecost
Isaiah 43: Jann preached on this after the events of Barneveld
News footage of the destruction at Barneveld in 1984
War of Art by Stephen Pressfield
Graduate Theological Union
Yale Divinity School
Boy George: Cheapness and Beauty (the album) on Amazon
Boy George's song Il Adore on Amazon (video is also below from YouTube)
Torch Song Trilogy on Amazon
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert on Amazon
Lars and the Real Girl on Amazon
Jann Cather Weaver's page on United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities
I am an Amazon affiliate. Links on this page (ones to items I truly love and recommend) may earn me a commission.
The post Episode 6: Jann Cather Weaver on Radical Gratitude, Acceptance, and Hospitality appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
It's my true honor and privilege to share episode 5 with you. It's an interview with Michelle Ward, aka The When I Grow Up Coach. She's a Brooklyn based creative career coach who helps women unlock their dreams and find work that feels like play. In addition to her work as a one on one coach, she has created two courses on Creative Live (Ditch Your Day Job and Create your Dream Career), leads a lively Facebook group, and is the author of the book "The Declaration of You."
She's also one of the funniest, liveliest people I've ever met.
Michelle and I have known each other for about 3 years, and it is always a total joy to get to spend time with her. I was her client, and "graduated" from my work with her knowing that I wanted to be an entrepreneur at some point, but admittedly not altogether sure what that would look like. I knew I loved doing retreats and knew I wanted to do more of that, whatever that was.
In this hilarious discussion, we chat about her early sparks of joy the 80s (yes, we talk about New Kids on the Block and Kirk Cameron), and a bit about her journey to become the When I Grow Up Coach, after having followed the dream of being in musical theater and graduating from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Michelle graciously dishes some very solid marketing advice, and I think any entrepreneur will really love what she has to say about finding your niche, activating your own marketing gatekeepers, and being super authentic as you start to build a client base.
In this episode we chat about:
- Michelle's early love of Debby Gibson and New Kids on the Block
- her time in a performing arts high school and getting early acceptance into NYU Tisch School of the Arts
- her bridge job, aka the job she held while she was working on getting certified as a life coach and worked in the financial industry
- Michelle's thoughts on having a niche and owning who you best work with
- ideas on what it's like to be a new entrepreneur, and how to build a business
- her recent experience in rebranding her own website
- her thoughts on ways to jump start your own joy
Related links:
Michelle's When I Grow Up Coach website
Donate to Michelle's "Avon Walk to End Breast Cancer" team
Sign up to join Michelle's webinar coming up October 9th!
Michelle's Grown Up Gigs Podcast
Ditch Your Day Job course at Creative Live
Create Your Dream Career course at CreativeLive (I show up on Day Two!)
Michelle's book "Declaration of You" on Amazon*
*this is an affiliate link - I love Michelle's book and know you will, too. Just wanted to keep it real.
The post Episode 5: Michelle Ward on Growing Up and Finding a Creative Career that You Love appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
In this episode, I speak with Dave Asprey, creator of Bulletproof Coffee, is the best selling author, tech industry veteran, bio-hacker, podcaster, and the CEO of Bulletproof Nutrition. His company recently received 9 million dollars in funding, and he's just opened his first brick and mortar Bulletproof Coffee shop in Santa Moncia, along with launching a line of products that are in Whole Foods.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to sit down with Dave, to chat about life. We were classmates at UC Santa Barbara, where we both lived in the San Rafael dorms during our sophomore year of college. We take an interesting (if not somewhat hilarious) trip down memory lane, revisiting our time in the dining commons, and talking about what's gotten Dave to where he is today.
In this episode, we chat about:
- what Dave was like in college
- how Dave created spoof flyers for our dorm regarding the famed UCSB Halloween celebration
- what he thinks of dorm food
- why fear and loathing was a motivator for his bio-hacking
- his experience at an intense 10 day retreat, and a cool exercise he tried there
- how fear can be a motivator
- his thoughts on why Bulletproof Coffee took off the way it did
- what it's been like to become a recognized personality with the rise of Bulletproof
- his philosophy on creating content for people, whether it be a podcast, book, or blogpost
- how to change the world
- if joy can be hacked
Notes:
Here are just a few of the items we chat about - and some great sites to visit:
The Bulletproof Diet - Dave's best selling book, available on Amazon
The Bulletproof Executive - the main site for All Things Bulletproof
Moldy Movie - Dave's self funded movie about mold and it's effect on people
If you want to learn more about the coaching program I mention, it's The Courageous Coaching Training Program. Stop by and visit Kate and tell her Paula sent you :)
For episode 3, I'm super excited to share this interview with Matthew Wood, who is the voice of General Grievous in the Star Wars, Revenge of the Sith and The Clone Wars. When he's not doing voice work, he is also a supervising sound editor at Skywalker Sound, a job he's had for 25 years. Matt has worked on a ton of amazing movies, and been nominated for two Oscars for his work on "Wall*E" and "There Will Be Blood".
On the personal side, Matt and I went to grade school, middle school, and high school together, and it was so fun catching up with him. (my son thinks it's hilarious that his mommy went to school with General Grievous.) Matt and I were five years old when Star Wars: A New Hope originally came out, and we both have fond memories of the Kenner toys, and the truly epic feel of the movie itself. And, he makes reference to the fact that he's working on the sound for the next film, The Force Awakens, which comes out on December 18, 2015.
I have to give him a huge shout out and thank you ... when we got on Skype he noticed my sound was "low," and offered advice on how to get my sound rig set up. He was helpful on getting my sound on point, and I couldn't be more grateful.
Matt and I talk about:
- seeing the "first" Star Wars (A New Hope) when it came out in 1977 at age five
- what it was like walking in to work on his first day at Skywalker sound
- how he started as a video games tester and worked his way over to the sound team
- his experience on Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
- how feeding the many sides of his brain, technical, creative, led him to take acting classes at ACT (American Conservatory Theater) in San Francisco
- his journey to becoming the voice of General Grievous
- the full circle experience of being both a fan of Star Wars, and then becoming one of the characters in the film
- how he learned to trust himself, listen to his gut, followed his intuition, and it led him to the opportunity that landed him as the voice of General Grievous
- how he sees the inter-connectedness of all things
- He answers the question of "What does General Grevious find joy in? What's that Greivous guy all about" from an emotional perspective (hint: he has a pet)
- the fun he's had with Grievous' voice, and how children react to it
- what it was like to work on Wall-E
- what might surprise you about how sound is created in a movie (hint: think fruit and veggies) based on the McGurk effect
- how he loves to craft things, from sound, to teams, to possibly chocolate and coffee
- the advice he gives on following your dreams
- what to do to jump start your joy
Links:
Matt's Website: Mattwood.com
Matt on IMDB:
The Force Awakens website
The post Episode 3: Matthew Wood (the voice of General Grievous in Star Wars) on Crafting Joy in the Crossfade appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh is the founder of the Egg Freezing Party, and goes by the nickname "The Egg Whisperer." She's an fertility specialist in Northern California, and she works with women and couples to help them realize their dream of having a child. Recently, she has introduced the concept of an "Egg Freezing Party" to the Bay Area; the idea being that women take the proactive step of having eggs harvested and frozen during their prime reproductive years so that they have more options around having children in the future. In the last year, both Apple and Facebook have announced that they will cover the costs of the related procedures for egg freezing for their employees.
Dr. Aimee has a wonderful outlook and an inspiring, no nonsense way about her. She's leading the charge to talk about some traditionally taboo topics around women's reproductive options, and she's doing so with grace, open-ness, and love. It's important that women know their options, and understand how egg health impacts their abilities to later have children. Her stance is that "Education = Choices = Empowerment" and she is standing at the forefront of educating women on their options.
She and I met many years ago, when she was friends with my younger sister. It's been a joy and a pleasure seeing her practice grow. And, such a delight getting to speak to her this week.
In this episode, Aimee and I talk about:
- the events that influenced her early in her life to want to become an OB/GYN
- how she got the nickname the Egg Whisperer
- what happens at an Egg Freezing Party
- her work to assist transgendered teen, Cole Carman, in collecting eggs before undergoing gender reassignment
- how her job involves high amounts of stress, and how she copes with it
- her recent weight loss and how that has changed her outlook on life
- how she embraces a positive mental attitude, and wakes up wanting to make the most of each day
- her advice on bringing your own dream into action, based on the advice of her own mentor
- how she makes a mindful choice, every day, to sparkle and bring joy to patients lives, knowing that IVF and trying to conceive can be difficult times in a women's life
- her thoughts on how you can jump start your own joy
Links:
The Egg Freezing Party website.
The Egg Whisperer's website.
NBC Bay Area's story on Cole Carman: Click here to watch.
Upcoming Egg Freezing Parties: Thursday, September 17 in San Francisco and Saturday, September 19 in Sacramento. Click here to sign up.
The post Episode 2: Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh of ‘Egg Freezing Party’ on Choosing to Sparkle Every Day appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.
It's my greatest pleasure to kick off the Jump Start Your Joy podcast with an interview with Kathleen Davies, where we talk about "More Light," Love, and Acceptance. Kathleen and I met at Yale Divinity School where we became fast friends and room mates. Highlights of those days include our working together in the admissions office and later living in the servant's quarters above the garage of one of the master's homes from Yale College. Truly, it was a strange and magical time, and Yale was an interesting place.
Kathleen is ordained in the Presbyterian Church, and currently a Pastor at Community of the Servant-Savior Church in Houston, Texas. In this episode we talk about:
- her early sparks of joy listening to her Mother and Aunts tell stories, and how that ties to her current work as a preaching pastor
- what moved her to be more involved with social justice, after initially not feeling like she wanted to be propelled into the spotlight
- how same sex marriage ceremonies are a sacrament, not a spectacle, and how to honor that
- what it means to live in the fullness of God's creation
- the meaning of "More Light," and how her congregation welcomes all people to be in genuine community with each other
- how she balances the fine line of engaging with the media to bring light to social justice, and keeping the lives of her own congregation private
- her ideas on how you can bring your own dream into action
- how truly committing to a dream is one of the ways to bring joy into your life
And here are the links to the show for iTunes and Stitcher:
The post Episode 1: Kathleen Davies on ‘More Light,” Love, and Acceptance appeared first on Jump Start Your Joy.