World Gone Good podcast: Recent Episodes
World Gone Good podcast
Need a little inspiration? Host Steve Silverman turns the light on in the darkness and spreads the good. Listen to unique stories from incredible everyday people making the world a little bit better each and every day.
Joe Beech is not—we repeat NOT—an entrepreneur (per him). He also doesn't like titles and—until recently—wasn't even that fond of his own company's name. What Joe IS is someone who has learned the art of staying open to possibility and embracing a good pivot when it comes his way. He's taking his own experiences and sharing them with college and uni students about to make the leap into their own careers, which technically makes him a mentor—another word he's not that fond of. If you're ready to make a change and take your own leap, this good guest's upfront and truthful thoughts may be just the inspiration you need. And don't forget our 2026 theme: SAY YES. Joe Beech is saying yes.
Sandra Griffiths is a retired nurse turned poet and she's putting herself out there with her first book, Becoming Me. In it, she opens her heart with a powerful collection of poems that trace her journey as a mother, daughter and woman finding her voice through life’s storms. Becoming Me is a tender, soulful reminder that even through pain and change, we are always becoming - stronger, softer and more ourselves. We talk about finding and sharing our voice, putting the personal up front, and how it's never too late to go for your dreams (especially when you have your kids behind you helping and cheering you on). Special thanks to Sarah Cleaver for connecting us with Sandra.
Rhys Payne sees himself more as a reviewer than a critic. In fact, he sees himself more as a supporter of the arts, theatre specifically, than someone there to point out what he likes and doesn't like. And he's been supporting artists of all kinds and types for a long time through his site Rhys Reviews. We talk the good of not being too hard on ourselves, the importance of sharing—and hearing—other people's stories, and why if it's not fun, we not doin' it no more (that's my American English, not his proper British English). There's a place for everyone in and at the theatre and Rhys is here to prove it. This episode is Part 2 of 3 in a series.
Rhys Payne sees himself more as a reviewer than a critic. In fact, he sees himself more as a supporter of the arts, theatre specifically, than someone there to point out what he likes and doesn't like. And he's been supporting artists of all kinds and types for a long time through his site Rhys Reviews. We talk the good of not being too hard on ourselves, the importance of sharing—and hearing—other people's stories, and why if it's not fun, we not doin' it no more (that's my American English, not his proper British English). There's a place for everyone in and at the theatre and Rhys is here to prove it. This episode is Part 2 of 3 in a series.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is once again coming this August. This is the place where over 3,800 individual shows—yes—3 thousand, 800 of them—will take place during the full month in what is billed as a global arts celebration. Last year the Fringe—as the locals call it—featured 53,942 performances over 301 venues with participants from 68 countries with 2.6 million in ticket sales. How good is that? So good that we are diving in to find out all about it with four of the upcoming performers: Liz Coin, Max Davidson, Brendon Lemon and Kristina Libby. We are talking everything from one-person shows to stand-up comedy to magic and illusionists, what it means to them to take part in this festival, and how the arts bring us all together in the best way possible. Grab your seat, the lights are dimming, as the festival is about to begin... This episode is Part 1 of 3 in a series.
Matt Hallas has had a passion for monitoring the health of the Earth and its global citizens via remotely sensed data sources since he first learned of the Landsat program back in high school. As the Manager of the Geospatial Practice at DevGlobal, he works with an incredible group of colleagues and partners all focused on how they can use open data and tools to build strong communities of practice, support programs related to Neglected Tropical Diseases, regenerative agriculture, improving the climate resilience of cities, and reducing the digital divide still so prevalent across the globe. Well...DANG. That sounds like a lot for this here podcast that's all about everyday people making good happen each and every day, doesn't it? But that's exactly what Matt is doing by using technology to create equitable and sustainable solutions to improve communities worldwide. So buckle up, embrace your inner-nerd and let's find out how we can save the world. Big shout out thanks to our pal Ruthie Berk for bringing Matt our way.
How do you make yourself happy when the world demands you to be sad? This is the question a reader wrote in for advice from Carolyn Hax in the May 30th edition of the Washington Post. Her response is too good not to share. Take a moment and give this bonus good a listen. You'll be glad you did.
Taylor Dayne brings her good to our 250th episode. She's a Grammy-nominated, American Music Award-winning vocal powerhouse who has conquered the Top 20 on the Billboard Top 100 chart 17 times, landing 7 times in the Top 10. Taylor's unbelievable career ascent has taken her from sold-out rock concerts to starring on Broadway in Aida to the semi-finals of the Masked Singer. In 2022, an unexpected diagnosis of colon cancer did little to slow her down and made her an advocate for promoting early detection and regular cancer screenings. We talk with Taylor about what drives her, how she chooses her songs (or if they choose her), and exactly what was that whole thing with Tig Notaro even about. This is a reunion of sorts as World Gone Good host, Steve, originally met Taylor at a mutual friend's last-minute cocktail hour in Santa Barbara. Funny how things work out, ain't it? Get ready to 'Tell It To My Heart' with the amazing Taylor Dayne here with us to celebrate episode #250!
Sarah Cleaver has entered her Done Dimming Era. Yep, that's what she's named it. She's done feeling stuck, playing small, and living her life via a steady routine. And so she took a lil' leap—we are talking under $50 per month lil' leap—where the entire world opened up to her—LITERALLY (yes, we know that was a lot of hyphens to get through—calm down). Now she's showing other 50+ women specifically how to break through to their next level. Sarah's other motto? Live life now. If you're ready to break the cycle of wake up, go to work, come home, make dinner, watch TV, go to sleep, rinse and repeat—this one's for you. Let's all enter our Done Dimming Era and live life now, shall we?
Josh and Carly Berg suffered the greatest loss a parent can go through, the loss of their child. At 6 years old, their daughter Ellie passed away in a freak accident, simply playing in their backyard. These conversations are never easy and we've had them and explored them on World Gone Good previously. They remain important because it's what we do as human beings after, that's where the good can be found. And that's why Josh and Carly created the Be Like Ellie Foundation to honor their child. The mission is simple (and sometimes simple is the best way, isn't it?): Spread love, be kind, play music—which is pretty much how their daughter lived her life. The Be Like Ellie Foundation encourages and supports simple acts of kindness to create a positive change. Through outreach programs, volunteer initiatives, and educational campaigns, this organization strive to empower individuals and groups to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others to build a more caring and inclusive society where every act of kindness ripples outward to create a brighter, more compassionate world for all. Isn't that exactly what we all need more of in this moment we are collectively all in together?
Tess Rafferty defines creativity: A writer, producer, author, brand storyteller and media innovator, she's also an expat having jumped over the pond from Los Angeles to London. We took the good of sharing our personal stories—which she did at Slideshow's May 3rd UK premiere, experiencing grief and how to move through it, why musicals and plays are better without an intermission, and so much more good stuff. For every person out there wondering is it too late? Do I still have time? Should I do that thing I've been waiting forever to do? Tess is here to say nope, yep, and hell yeah—in that order—for your answers.
Savia Rocks is a singer/songwriter, poet, photographer, podcast producer/host who loves people on every level, especially those who share their story with her. Her podcast Us People is all about that. It's where people can share their truth, honest and real, the good, bad and ugly. Us People highlights the underserved voices that need a place to amplify themselves and in turn provides a place for a listener to connect. Our 2026 slogan/motto/anthem is: SAY YES. When we reached out to Savia to come on World Gone Good, she said yes without hesitation. She repeated with a second yes when Steve asked her to join Slideshow's UK debut on Sunday, May 3rd in London. So this episode provides you our good listener with another guest who is here not just to uplift but also inspire you to say yes to whatever your life question is. It's also an important opportunity for us to explain to you how London is not measured in streets or miles or kilometers but rather in coffee shops. Press play for more on all this good stuff...
Sequin Kay is all about art and life reflecting one another. As an artist with over 15 years of experience, she specializes in contemporary works that blend pointillism with themes of identity and emotion. Kay's art focuses on storytelling through precise techniques, exploring the interconnectedness of the divine and wounded feminine, creating artworks that foster deep connection and personal reflection. We talk about finding and sharing your voice, how the arts foster and build communities by bringing people together and when (and if) a piece of work is every truly finished. Let's get our good sparkle on, shall we?
Champale Anderson put some sandwiches out on a table in front of her house to help some of the kids in her neighborhood and now, 10 years later, through Champ's Teardrops, she continues to support, uplift and inspire her community. Family isn't always blood-related, it can be the person next door or right down the block. And sometimes the simplest of ideas and gestures just require one person saying yes. Champale is that yes. Who says there's no such thing as a free meal, let alone a good one? Kick off 2026 with this incredibly good story of one woman making a difference each and every day, one sandwich at a time. What is your SAY YES for 2026?
Sometimes Chloe Angyal simply asks, 'Why not?' As in why not write a marriage proposal in the form of a blog to a man she sees deliver a speech on TV that inspires her? As long as she's writing stuff, why not give writing romance novels a try? And hey, why not get a doctorate in rom-coms for that matter? Spoiler Alert: She's now married to that man she proposed to via a blog posting, she's written three romance novels (and 1 non-fiction book), and she got that PHD so you can call her Dr. Chick Flick and she happily accepts that title. Is Chloe's life normal? Before you answer that, follow-up question: Is YOUR life normal? Life is whatever we want it to be. And in Chloe Angyal's case, it's gone from Australia to Iowa where she's now helping her husband, Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls, run for a US Senate seat this November. Remember our slogan for 2026? SAY YES. Chloe is definitely saying yes. This is part 2 of our oh-so-good conversation.
Sometimes Chloe Angyal simply asks, 'Why not?' As in why not write a marriage proposal in the form of a blog to a man she sees deliver a speech on TV that inspires her? As long as she's writing stuff, why not give writing romance novels a try? And hey, why not get a doctorate in rom-coms for that matter? Spoiler Alert: She's now married to that man she proposed to via a blog posting, she's written three romance novels (and 1 non-fiction book), and she got that PHD so you can call her Dr. Chick Flick and she happily accepts that title. Is Chloe's life normal? Before you answer that, follow-up question: Is YOUR life normal? Life is whatever we want it to be. And in Chloe Angyal's case, it's gone from Australia to Iowa where she's now helping her husband, Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls, run for a US Senate seat this November. Remember our slogan for 2026? SAY YES. Chloe is definitely saying yes. This is part 1 of our oh-so-good conversation.
Doug Page loves books. So much so he built his own site to share his love of them, Books by Page (how perfectly did that work out?). He's here to share the good of stories and storytellers, reporting the news versus offering your own personal commentary, and whether he's pro or con when it comes to audio books. Doug spent his career bringing the news to the people. Now he's spending his time bringing reviews and insights into the books he's come to love, old and new. Hey, what good book are you reading right now? Shout out to WGG supporter and three-time former guest, Wendy Miller, for hooking us up with today's good guest.
Gabriela Nguyen helps people break their overreliance on cell phones and social media to venture offline and become self-empowered again. With over 40% of American social media users ages 18 - 22 feeling addicted and 50% of British teens reporting the same signs, she has her work cut out for her. And she's doing is all through her company, Appstinence, and its 5 D process: decrease, deactivate, deflect, downgrade, and depart. Gabriela isn't just texting the text (see what we did there?), she's walking the walk. Having been an enthusiastic social media user herself, she now has what she calls a 'dumb' phone (not a smart phone - get it?). “It's not a utopian fantasy of like, ‘Oh, if only I could run out into the woods and leave all my technology behind and get off social media and reinvent myself," she says. "It's something that people are actually doing.” We talk about how her dad tossed the family TV when she was a child, what it feels like to connect with others on a human level and not through our phones, and what she is saying yes to in 2026 (remember, SAY YES is our motto for the year). Are you ready to connect yourself with this brand new episode?
Champale Anderson put some sandwiches out on a table in front of her house to help some of the kids in her neighborhood and now, 10 years later, through Champ's Teardrops, she continues to support, uplift and inspire her community. Family isn't always blood-related, it can be the person next door or right down the block. And sometimes the simplest of ideas and gestures just require one person saying yes. Champale is that yes. Who says there's no such thing as a free meal, let alone a good one? Kick off 2026 with this incredibly good story of one woman making a difference each and every day, one sandwich at a time. What is your SAY YES for 2026?
Jeffrey Deskovic's life changed forever when he was convicted of a murder he did not commit at just 17 years old. He maintained his innocence for the next 16 years and then, with the help of the Innocence Project, the real person responsible was finally caught and Jeff was released from prison. Now you may be asking yourself, 'Hey, how is this a GOOD story?' The answer is found in what Jeff did after this all happened: He went to law school, became an attorney and founded the Deskovic Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the exoneration of the wrongfully convicted, their recovery, and reform of the system. This is one person's journey from the darkest of places to finding and creating his own light and we gotta tell ya, it doesn't get much more inspiring than this. Today's episode is Part 2 of 2.
Jeffrey Deskovic's life changed forever when he was convicted of a murder he did not commit at just 17 years old. He maintained his innocence for the next 16 years and then, with the help of the Innocence Project, the real person responsible was finally caught and Jeff was released from prison. Now you may be asking yourself, 'Hey, how is this a GOOD story?' The answer is found in what Jeff did after this all happened: He went to law school, became an attorney and founded the Deskovic Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the exoneration of the wrongfully convicted, their recovery, and reform of the system. This is one person's journey from the darkest of places to finding and creating his own light and we gotta tell ya, it doesn't get much more inspiring than this. Today's episode is Part 1 of 2.
Abi Murray invites us to a cup of coffee and a nice conversation care of the Chatty Cafe Scheme. This all began on a typical wet and windy UK day when Abi's sister Alex Hoskyn was in a supermarket café with her four month old son, who wasn't great company, and she herself was feeling a bit tired and a bit fed up. Alex looked around the cafe and saw others who looked just as down as she felt herself and she started to think about the positive impact we can have on one other simply by sitting together and communicating. She knew from her own experience that when you are feeling lonely, a short conversation with another human can really brighten your day. It was in that very moment her ‘Chatter & Natter’ table idea began (in her head where all dreams do) and it soon became reality. Now in 900 cafes throughout the UK and an additional 200 in Australia, the Chatty Cafe Scheme allows anyone feeling lonely to take a seat and connect. Abi shares the journey she and Alex have been on and the importance of creating community. We also speak with volunteer John Ford about his experience with this organization and what it's meant to him to connect with others as someone who moved to the UK from another country himself. Grab a cup of coffee and join us, won't you?
Anthony Dyer is a United States Air Force veteran who served as a Combat Special Missions Aviator for two decades plus. He flew high-risk missions in some of the world’s most dangerous war zones and when he came home to retire, he found the transition back to non-military life a struggle. To put it bluntly, Anthony spiraled into a very dark place. But from that very same place, he found his voice in the form of taking pen to paper, writing it all down, releasing it all in the process. He's now an author and mental health advocate, using his life experience to help others. As he writes in his novel, Moon Child: A Memoir: “You can train for combat, but not what comes after.” Good side note: We recorded this episode on Veteran's Day—which was not planned but turned out to be the perfect time to do it. Gotta love when the universe lines these kinda good things up.
Champale Anderson put some sandwiches out on a table in front of her house to help some of the kids in her neighborhood and now, 10 years later, through Champ's Teardrops, she continues to support, uplift and inspire her community. Family isn't always blood-related, it can be the person next door or right down the block. And sometimes the simplest of ideas and gestures just require one person saying yes. Champale is that yes. Who says there's no such thing as a free meal, let alone a good one? Kick off 2026 with this incredibly good story of one woman making a difference each and every day, one sandwich at a time. What is your SAY YES for 2026?
Who's ready for a good year in review? Look, we get it, you're scratching your head and questioning our sanity for using the adjective 'good' to describe this here specific spin around the globe. But remember: this is what we do. We find the everyday people making good happen each and every day. World Gone Good show producer Lisa joins us to co-host as we revisit some of our favorite stories from 2025. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll find yourself realizing, 'Hey, I missed that one, I better go back and give it a listen.' Celebrate the good with us, a full year's worth, on this very special episode which includes a good interview with Mike Rust, who volunteers with Sheriff Chris Swanson, and a preview at our upcoming slate of 2026 good new episodes featuring Christine Whisler, Anthony Dyer, Doug Page, and Champale Anderson. Let's party, people!
Sheriff Chris Swanson strives to live in the moment: On May 30th 2020, when he found himself in the center of a volatile situation, he chose to listen to the people he has sworn to protect, put down his baton, and walk with them by their side. And in doing so, more than a billion people across the world tuned in to see one everyday person change the tide from negative to positive, from what could have been bad to something good. While the world around us seems to be on a constant, unstoppable path of division, Sheriff Chris continues to embrace unity, through his community in Flint, Michigan and beyond. We talk a lot on this show about shining the light into — and finding the light in — the darkness. Sheriff Chris is doing that on the daily. This episode is one of the most profoundly inspiring and uplifting ones we've ever offered and serves as the perfect way to close out the year with you, our good listeners, reminding you that there IS still good out there, lots of it, and you — YES YOU — can find and be that good yourself.
Kelvin Cook is Founder & CEO of IntimaSync, the AI software that helps companies boost productivity and retain talent with AI-driven relationship wellness. IntimaSync is an AI-powered relationship-wellness platform that converts behavioral science into three-minute coaching sessions. The goal is simple: cut work–family conflict, boost engagement, and give HR leaders clear ROI on every wellness dollar. Kelvin believes that healthy relationships, romantic, professional, and communal, are the ultimate leverage point for economic growth. When couples thrive at home, they bring sharper focus to work, which fuels better products, better service, and better bottom lines. Our word of 2025 is what? That's right: Community. That's what Kelvin is all about.
Abi Murray invites us to a cup of coffee and a nice conversation care of the Chatty Cafe Scheme. This all began on a typical wet and windy UK day when Abi's sister Alex Hoskyn was in a supermarket café with her four month old son, who wasn't great company, and she herself was feeling a bit tired and a bit fed up. Alex looked around the cafe and saw others who looked just as down as she felt herself and she started to think about the positive impact we can have on one other simply by sitting together and communicating. She knew from her own experience that when you are feeling lonely, a short conversation with another human can really brighten your day. It was in that very moment her ‘Chatter & Natter’ table idea began (in her head where all dreams do) and it soon became reality. Now in 900 cafes throughout the UK and an additional 200 in Australia, the Chatty Cafe Scheme allows anyone feeling lonely to take a seat and connect. Abi shares the journey she and Alex have been on and the importance of creating community. We also speak with volunteer John Ford about his experience with this organization and what it's meant to him to connect with others as someone who moved to the UK from another country himself. Grab a cup of coffee and join us, won't you?
Paige Parsons Roache and Sherri Johnson are two health-focused, powerhouse self-starters, raising their individual families plant-based, all the while maintaining their BFF status with one another. What started as two people who just happened to go to the same gym turned into two women on a mission to educate and inspire through their show Plant-Based in the Burbs. In this oh-so-good episode, Paige and Sherri share how they maintain their friendship and uplift one another, how going vegan has both empowered and educated them along with their families, and most importantly, how important laughter has been through it all. Go ahead and share this one with your own BFF. Let's celebrate friendship together, yes?
Celebrate 5 years of good times as World Gone Good brings you our first episode from our new digs in London. Yep, that's right, we've jumped the pond to bring you all new guests for Season 6. Our party's got everything you expect from us: a vegan chef, a farm sanctuary, a few random strangers on the street, a trip back in time (literally—we go to Beamish—look it up), a sound journey, and even the return of one of our first guests from our very first couple of episodes. So pop the champagne, grab a slice of cake, and get ready for an oh-so-good anniversary celebration (just remember to 'mind the gap').
Our new season begins October 8th, direct from our new studio in London. We are embracing the world in the title of our show to bring you all new guests with all new stories to uplift, inspire, and maybe even laugh a bit. Enjoy this short bonus before the new season arrives.
Izumi "Asura" Serra is a healer, a teacher, a singer, and a sound journey-ist (it's a word because I said it's a word). Through her bowls and bells, gongs and drums, and yes, even her own voice, she channels emotion, compassion, and rejuvenation. In this good episode, she shares her life from growing up in Japan to coming to the United States, becoming a teacher of young children, and how it all led her to rediscover her passion for music—and yes, sound itself. Through her company, Music of the Spheres, she provides a safe and nurturing space where one can connect with your body, mind, and spirit. Her classes and workshops empower anyone to embrace joy and take charge of creating the life they are truly meant to live. This episode also features a sound journey for you to take part in as Asura plays just for us. Who's up for a sound journey? It's gonna be a good one.
Mike Matthews had an incredibly close relationship with his Grandma Eileen. So when one of his co-workers needed some support and a sounding board, he gave them her phone number and said, 'Give my grandma a call. Trust me.' And after this co-worker did call Grandma Eileen—and had a great experience—Mike came to the realization that he needed to share her with the world. That's how—and when—Grandma Stand first started. The concept is simple: A purple stand where a Grandma waits, takes a seat, asks the jumping off question and the rest just flows naturally. This is a redefining of the phrase, 'generational wealth,' where both parties who participate in these conversations experience the riches of what each other has to offer. We've been focusing on community and what Mike and Grandma Stand are doing truly nails this. Who knows—maybe you have something you'll want to ask OR maybe you'll be the grandma with all (or some) of the answers.
Keaver Brenai is mentoring with a mic—using her own talent and own journey to help bring up the next generation of creatives surrounding her. She’s a voice-over artist, a singer, an author, and most notably, Keaver is consistently happy right where she is. And when she’s not? She pivots and finds her way back or forward to that happy place we all deserve to live in. We talk about everything good from the house parties her parents threw growing up to living presently, like when she sang backup for Michael Jackson and how to this day, she can still feel that moment. You've heard her voice everywhere from Blue Cross to Cartoon Network, Nike to NBC's The Good Place—now get to know the inspiring person behind it.
Dr. Steven Drabek draws from his four-decade career and personal journey as a cancer survivor and chronic pain patient to offer his unique perspective. He’s board-certified in family medicine and hospice and palliative medicine with an advocacy for better end-of-life care, a passion for hospice and symptom management through assessment and empathetic communication. Dr. Drabek advocates for self-determination and personal choice to help his patients set realistic goals for their own care. He’s taken all this experience and written it down in his groundbreaking memoir, The Comfortologist: A Physician’s Empathetic Perspective on Compassion, Caring and Pain Relief, which has achieved #1 bestseller status on Amazon. We talk about everything from how his own health struggles helped him see his patients in a whole new light to why the God he believes in has an incredible sense of humor. This is the good episode where science meets spirituality.
Christy Grant invites you to boot up and get your two step on with Kickin' Country SB. Did you know country line dancing is back in a big way in 2025? Christy did—and does—as a dance instructor herself, this is one of her life-long passions. She's learned that in a world dominated by digital interactions, people are actually craving face-to-face social experiences. Country line dancing classes offer a fun and welcoming environment to meet up with friends and make new friends, bond over music as we trip over our own two left feet to make complete fools out of ourselves in the funnest way possible. And as Christy will tell you, you don't even need a partner because everyone who shows up is your partner. So line up and giddy up, we're takin' to the streets to dance it up!
Jessica Cruz has a passion for compassion and inclusivity. Over the past decade in the vegan industry, she's focused on making plant-based living approachable, fun, and empowering for everyone—regardless of their background or level of curiosity. As the Founder and CEO of Vegan Street Fair, she's collaborated with incredible vendors, sponsors, and attendees nationwide to build a vibrant event that showcases the best vegan food, products, and experiences. A breast cancer survivor, mom of two, Jessica embraces the value of resilience, community support, and meeting people where they are. Above all, her mission is to plant seeds of compassion, health, and sustainability—one delicious bite and one inclusive event at a time. How deliciously good does that sound? This is part two of our oh-so-good conversation.
Jessica Cruz has a passion for compassion and inclusivity. Over the past decade in the vegan industry, she's focused on making plant-based living approachable, fun, and empowering for everyone—regardless of their background or level of curiosity. As the Founder and CEO of Vegan Street Fair, she's collaborated with incredible vendors, sponsors, and attendees nationwide to build a vibrant event that showcases the best vegan food, products, and experiences. A breast cancer survivor, mom of two, Jessica embraces the value of resilience, community support, and meeting people where they are. Above all, her mission is to plant seeds of compassion, health, and sustainability—one delicious bite and one inclusive event at a time. How deliciously good does that sound? This is part one of our oh-so-good conversation.
Ravinder Taylor has spent the past 30 years researching and analyzing self-help modalities. She believes life educates our minds to expect less, thereby limiting us. But she also believes we can make changes, thru practice, and live a more fulfilled life. Ravinder is the author of Mind Training: The Science of Self-Empowerment and she joins us to discuss living consciously, choosing wisely, and loving passionately. We—you, me, all of us—have the ability to wake up at any moment—literally you can do this right now as you read these words—and retrain our brains to see and feel the world in a more happy and healthy way.
Do-Over Divas is a fun, irreverent podcast where three fearless midlife mavericks share unfiltered stories of reinvention and prove your most badass chapter might be the one you never planned. Jill Shea, Libby Silverman and Corie Vickers flip the script with sass, humor, and zero apologies through candid conversations and interviews with women who’ve faced similar transitions, career pivots, hot flashes, dating adventures and identity reinvention. Whether you’ve been sidelined at work, finished raising kids, or simply want to redefine yourself on your own terms, these Do-Over Divas serve up the good mix of understanding and motivation. Do you need a do-over? Listen up 'cause these ladies may be the ones to inspire you to go for it.
Peter Godard is a queer leadership coach who nurtures people to thrive in life and leadership. His work is an expression of two passions: the joy and possibility of queer magic and liberation for all people. In addition to his queer coaching practice, Peter is a co-creator of Social Identity Coaching Lab. Peter’s coaching is warm, compassionate, and joyful. He is well suited to working with clients seeking transformation and integration as his work is identity-celebratory, and he supports clients to name issues of identity and power directly. And make no mistake about it, you don't have to identify as queer to listen to this episode cause we all could use some more self-joy in our lives, amIright?
Danielle Hanosh wants us all to take a LEAP in the best way possible. Her organization LEAP stands for Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet. Their mission: to transform today’s youth into the humane leaders of tomorrow who advocate for and work towards an equitable future for all living beings and the planet. LEAP is a revolutionary humane education program providing high school students across the nation with a compassionate alternative to traditional agriculture programs like 4H and FFA. A comprehensive four-year program taught by participating farm animal sanctuaries, LEAP combines interactive curriculum modules with hands-on learning activities, leadership training, and real-world skill development. If Whitney is right and the children are our future and we should teach them well and let them lead the way, then we all need to take one big good LEAP together, donchathink?
Mark Skipper is equal parts talented artist and climate activist. And just how is he bridging those two passions together? Through his project, Faces of Rebellion, where he sits down with people making a difference in the world to not just sketch and draw them, but also to connect with them and share their stories. Literally, he combines their likeness with their mission, all on one glorious single piece of paper. We chat about where he finds his inspiration, how art has always had a profound effect on him, and how every single one of us can make change happen, and in turn, make the planet a better place, simply by using our individual talent, whatever it may be. If you question whether you can make a difference, you very well may find the answer in this oh-so-good conversation (spoiler alert: you can choose to make change happen anytime you want, exactly where you are—it really is that simple). This is part one of our conversation.
Mark Skipper is equal parts talented artist and climate activist. And just how is he bridging those two passions together? Through his project, Faces of Rebellion, where he sits down with people making a difference in the world to not just sketch and draw them, but also to connect with them and share their stories. Literally, he combines their likeness with their mission, all on one glorious single piece of paper. We chat about where he finds his inspiration, how art has always had a profound effect on him, and how every single one of us can make change happen, and in turn, make the planet a better place, simply by using our individual talent, whatever it may be. If you question whether you can make a difference, you very well may find the answer in this oh-so-good conversation (spoiler alert: you can choose to make change happen anytime you want, exactly where you are—it really is that simple). This is part one of our conversation.
Christina Shadle is a functional nutritional therapy practitioner (say that five times fast) aaaand she likes herself some wine (who doesn't?). But she also found that over time (literal time, we are talking aging, people), her tolerance and ability to bounce back from a few glasses of her favorite cocktail wasn't what it used to be. So she created her course, WELLNESS FOR WINOS, where the goal is to keep the cocktails and lose the consequences. She joins us to talk the good of habit stacking, detox and balance, and how a 14 day nourishing reset can be a life changer. It's 5 o'clock somewhere, am I right? Might as well enjoy it and feel good after doing so. This one is for the wine lovers out there (like me).
Meet the Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage, a group of environmentalists who are proving age is just a number as they dive deep to and make a difference. Mary Grauerholz and Trish Corey join us to talk the good of making a difference right in your own backyard. Formed in 2017, OLAUG has been cleaning up ponds on Cape Cod from Falmouth to Chatham ever since. Gathering small teams of all-women swimmers, ages 64 to 85, they sweep along the shallows to pick up beer cans, golf balls, fishing lures, waterlogged dog toys, hats, jackets, shoes, and occasionally a tire, cell phone or box of spent fireworks. They've been featured on NBC Nightly News, The Drew Barrymore Show, and NPR and now they're here to share their good time with us. If you're sitting around asking yourself if you're too old or it's too late, these proud powerhouses have a message for you: NOPE. YOU STILL GOT TIME. We all do.
Beth Amodio is President/CEO of One Warm Coat, the organization on a mission to provide free coats to children and adults in need while promoting volunteerism and environmental sustainability. One Warm Coat is all about community: they create awareness of the vital need, this awareness brings volunteers, coat donations and monetary donations, they then pass the donations to nonprofit partners across the United States who serve communities in need. Every year, this incredible platform helps deliver over half a million jackets and coats right into the hands of people who need them most. We talk the good of coat drives, how if we see it we can make it so, and yes, Wheel of Fortune. Yep. You read that right. Come on now, admit it, you've got a coat or two in your own closet you haven't worn in how long now? Are you ready to pay it forward and make someone in your own community a little warmer, a little safer today?
Maya Brattkus wanted to give her friend who lost her home in the LA fires a gift to comfort her and help her through her grief. What she didn't realize is that her art would touch so many people in need as well. So she started drawing the houses and businesses that were lost in the Eaton and Palisades fires to raise awareness and support for strangers she had never met, ones who had lost so much. And that's how her Lost Home Project began. And it's still going. Maya's goal is to compile as many drawings of these houses, along with the stories behind them, to compile into a book to pay tribute to her community. They say art heals people. Sometimes an artist realizes it can heal themself. This is Maya's good journey...
Sean Devlin was tired of nothing but bad news so he decided to do something about it in the nicest way possible. Nice News highlights the good stuff happening around the world on a daily basis. And with over 1 million daily followers, they must be doing something nice...er...right. Sean shares everything from where he finds his own personal inspiration and drive to how being a 'nice guy' is actually a good thing, especially in the current culture climate. Know this: When the force of nice nature behind Nice News teams up with the proactive people from World Gone Good, it's gonna be a hell of a positive experience. Plus Steve finally agrees we can be both good AND nice.
Craig Polsfuss believes we can change in an instant because that's exactly what happened to him. There will be listeners of this episode who will connect with this mindset and there will be listeners who wave it off as malarky (you heard me, I said it, I said malarky). And guess what? Craig's good with either and both responses. As a licensed psychologist practicing over 4 decades, he's definitely seen and heard it all. In his late 20s, he had his own instant transformation, and it changed how he not just worked with his clients but also how he saw the world and saw himself within it. He's put all his feelings and findings into his book, Reality Shattering Insights, with the hope he can help spark others to find their own personal transformation and begin a life journey, no matter where you are at in your life. If you have been thinking about making a change, if you've been talking yourself out of doing it, if you have been waiting for a sign, if you are just open to it, this conversation may just be the spark you need. Spoiler Alert: I ask Craig if it's ever too late and his answer is one word, "NEVER."
Frank Holleman is the founder of the Fork Ranger initiative, a platform dedicated to educating people on how their food choices can impact climate change and providing practical ways to eat more sustainably through recipes and information. Nearly 60% of food waste starts in our homes, with 1/5 of all food produced each year squandered or lost before it can be consumed. This is the equivalent to one billion — billion with a B — meals — per day — !! Information like this can feel so overwhelming but one person can make a difference especially if that one person inspires others to follow suit. Frank is that one person and he's one person you need to hear from to see how you can be the next. We talk everything from leaning in to everyday recipes to why supermarkets may not be so super after all and he also announces our show intro in Dutch — how good is that? Enjoy this international new episode.
Marcy Thrash brings the good of Project AnimalAid, the Boulder, Colorado based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the health and welfare of animals in the U.S. and around the world. PAA achieves this goal by collecting veterinary equipment, technology and supplies from veterinary hospitals, human hospitals, medical equipment and supply manufacturers and distributors, zoos, other non-profit organizations and individuals. These donated items are then distributed worldwide to veterinarians working in non-profit or non-governmental organizations devoted to animal health. This amazing organization is not only helping the animals of the planet, but also conserving valuable resources that will likely otherwise end up in a landfill. We are talking animals, conserving, recycling, reusing, and how bad ass it is to have Thrash as a last name. Special note from Steve: This episode is dedicated in loving memory of Mason and Haylee, our beyond good dogs, who left us too soon and too close together but we know in our hearts you two crazies are racing around somewhere, causing chaos among the stars.
Brittinie Tran is a mother of 3, splitting her time between her own top-rated podcast Girl, Same and being the President of the Board for Hot Mess Express. What is Hot Mess Express? Good question. It's the women-led non-profit with chapters across the United States, serving women in their communities with zero judgment through cleaning, organizing, and offering a fresh start. Look, we all need a break and sometimes that's hard to admit. And we all need some help and sometimes that's even harder to admit. We don't want to look—or worse feel—like we can't do it all, especially when we see everyone around us (seemingly) killing it each and every day. Hot Mess Express—and Brittinie—get this and they offer a solution simply by rolling up their sleeves and getting to work. Community is needed more than ever in this world and that's what this episode is all about. It's also about traveling and living in an RV with your spouse, 3 children and 3 dogs—but that you'll have to listen to find out more.
Celebrate our 200th episode with our #1 most downloaded show guest Julie McGuire, eco-artist and internet sensation Ike Wynter, and the Black Fairy Godmother herself, Simone Gordon. We talk the good of conquering literal mountains, turning trash into treasure, and how community means—and is—everything, especially right now in the time we are living in. Our mission has remained the same over all 200 episodes: shine the light—find the light—in the darkness and prove there is good out there, and lots of it. And if you shine the light bright enough, you might even find a surprise fourth good guest at the end of this party of an episode. Who is this good mystery person? Press play and find out. This 200th party wouldn't be the same without you...
New Year, New You - Part 2: Dr. Jay Winner wants us to be more gentle with ourselves, with each other, and with life over all. He's a family physician and stress expert who has helped thousands of people deal with stress. So much so, he's written a book about it, Relaxation on the Run: Simple Methods to Reduce Stress in Seconds. It's no secret we are living in stressful times. Too much stress can ruin our days and shorten our lives. It ages us, harms relationships, and impairs job performance. Excessive stress can exacerbate almost any medical condition, including obesity, heart disease, chronic pain, depression, and headaches. And in our busy lives, reducing stress can seem like just one more time-consuming and overwhelming task. Now is the time to make our health our priority and that's what he's joined us to talk about. Oh and if you're wondering about this New Year, New You stuff — it's a new year and you have every right to a new you, so here's hoping this episode inspires just that.
New Year, New You - Part 2: Dr. Jay Winner wants us to be more gentle with ourselves, with each other, and with life over all. He's a family physician and stress expert who has helped thousands of people deal with stress. So much so, he's written a book about it, Relaxation on the Run: Simple Methods to Reduce Stress in Seconds. It's no secret we are living in stressful times. Too much stress can ruin our days and shorten our lives. It ages us, harms relationships, and impairs job performance. Excessive stress can exacerbate almost any medical condition, including obesity, heart disease, chronic pain, depression, and headaches. And in our busy lives, reducing stress can seem like just one more time-consuming and overwhelming task. Now is the time to make our health our priority and that's what he's joined us to talk about. Oh and if you're wondering about this New Year, New You stuff — it's a new year and you have every right to a new you, so here's hoping this episode inspires just that.
New Year, New You - Part 1: Alexis Gonzalez is an entrepreneur, speaker, author and Family Constellations Facilitator. She's a trained speaker with a background in both fields of spirituality and metaphysics for going on a decade. Her book, 'A Journey into Truth: Unveiling Life's Secrets for Truth-Seekers,' is all about her own personal journey, how she connected with others, and how in turn she connected with herself. She shares what she's learned from Family Constellations, how our history feeds into our present feelings, and how some of it is actually embedded in our DNA without us even knowing it. Alexis will be a presenter at the Conscious Life Expo the weekend of February 7, 2025 — where Steve will be as well to record a live podcast episode. Visit https://consciouslifeexpo.com/?ref=mjnlzjh for more details. Oh and if you're wondering about this New Year, New You stuff — it's a new year and you have every right to a new you, so here's hoping this episode inspires just that.
Get your ho, ho, ho on as Tim Brady, Kristine Augustyn and Kevin Ford join our sled ride directly into the holidays. We are talking the good of everything from unexpected gifts to discount Christmas trees to hiring an actor to play Santa Claus to prove to your in-denial child he truly exists. Yep. We are celebrating THAT kind of Christmas and Hanukkah together, people. About our party guests: Tim's a long time friend and when we put up a call for holiday stories, he responded first and foremost with a childhood memory that had us double over laughing - we know you will love and relate to it, too; Kristine is a new friend who brings a special present in the form of the Conscious Life Expo coming February 7 - 10 to Los Angeles; and you may recognize Kevin from his appearance on The Today Show or People Magazine, he's the guy who experienced a real life miracle and that's what we all need to hear and share more of - we're talkin' good holiday and everyday miracles. This is our annual celebration of all the ways our family and friends and even complete strangers help to make the season merry and bright. And it's our final new episode of 2024 so unwrap this one and savor it. And to all, a good night...
PaSean Wilson-Ashley returns to talk about her oh-so-good documentary, THE F WORD. What IS the F WORD? Fibroids. We talk about women's health, specifically women of color, trusting your body when it speaks to you, and how finding the right doctor is everything. PaSean has been working on this documentary for over ten years now and recently opted for a new challenge, turning it into a podcast. You know how much we love to talk to other good podcasters. It's an inspiring and informative good conversation.
Cody Bryant's real life story is right out of a soap opera: he met a girl, they started dating, he went on a trip overseas alone, got in an accident, wound up in the hospital unable to walk with no memory, she didn't hear from him and assumed she had been ghosted, they reconnected months later, started dating again, and fell in love. Crazy, right? But this is more than a love story, it's a journey filled with determination and resilience, one that Cody is still on to this very day. And he wants us all to know one good thing — never give up.
Sarah Woodard is back to spark more of our consciousness — literally — that's the name of her company, Spark Consciousness. We talk the good of being and embracing our true authentic selves, taking chances in our careers and playing it safe at the same time, and knowing when it's time to make a move in every sense of the word. She's equal parts empath and creative, with more books published than you can count, and she's all about keeping it real. Have you been thinking about taking a chance, a swing, a try at something that gives you your own spark? Sarah will give you the inspiration to, as she herself says, 'Do it. Just do it.'
36 years ago, Lori Maier put together Chick Singer Night for one night only and well, here we are, way more nights than one only. What exactly is Chick Singer Night? It's where singers and songwriters and performers — all of the female persuasion — come together to make music and community happen. It's a celebration of great music and a reminder to put your expectations on outcomes to the side, be present, and enjoy the experience. Get ready to enjoy the show...
James Freitas continues his ghostly good story of apparitions-a-plenty... at the mall (insert menacing laugh). Look, it's no secret I fancy a spooky story, so much so I made the executive decision this good topic needed to be a two-parter. But make no mistake, this is more than just another Halloween-themed tale, it's a story about our connection and shared experience. And if it opens your mind or creeps you out a little, even better I say. Please look under your bed and lock your door before continuing to listen.
Mary Edwards shared her ghostly tale in this week's episode, but that was just the beginning of her story. We're keeping Halloween going a little bit longer with this bonus treat. Enjoy… and maybe listen with the light on? Just to be safe.
Celebrate Halloween with Mary Edwards, John Carrozza, Jaci Pund, James Freitas and Susan Moore who all join us to get their good spooky time on. It's a full episode of ghostly tales — literally — this one's all about ghosts: ones that visited us in childhood, ones we went to college with, and yes, even a few who showed up at the mall back in the day. Do you believe in spirits? Can you explain the unexplainable? And what's good about it all? That's what this special holiday episode is all about.
Have you voted? Are you planning to vote? Here's an inspirational flashback bonus with our good pal, CBS Sunday Morning correspondent and Emmy-winner Faith Salie, sharing her personal inspiration, her 100+ year old neighbor Ruth. Faith originally brought us this good story back for our 1 Year Anniversary Special, way back in Episode #61. In the current climate we are in, it felt like a good time for a reshare. Let's all honor Ruth's wish and 'Yes. Vote.'
Shelly Tygielski is a 2020 CNN Hero, the founder of Pandemic of Love, Co-Founder of Partners in Kind, and she just happens to live in Asheville, North Carolina. Yep. THAT Asheville. The same one that bore the brunt of Hurricane Helene. Nothing could have prepared her for this catastrophe, one that she is still living through and in. We talk the reality of living without running water, cell phones, electricity, what it's like to see your community this damaged, and how through it all, anyone of us can be a helper, even now as the need is still there. Take note: This is NOT a downer episode. In fact, it's one of the most uplifting and inspirational ones we've ever offered.
Shani is just another American girl from a small town in Arkansas with a love for rhythm and melody and some big dreams — several of which she's still working on to this very day. She's a singer, composer, producer and actress and on top of all that, she's a humanitarian with a vision to unite voices around the globe and help people be heard wherever they may be from. We talk the good of taking chances, creative evolution, girl power, and why The Bee Gees may be the greatest musicians of all time. Get your creative juices flowing with this brand new, oh-so-good, episode.
Our 4th anniversary celebration continues with Ellie Laks & Jay Wiener from the Gentle Barn continuing their real life and somewhat surprising love story. We pick up where we left off last week, where after five years of waiting to walk down the aisle, Jay decides to take matters into his own hands. Who's ready for a surprise family wedding in Las Vegas? Who's ready to hear how Jay went and bought Ellie a wedding gown without her even knowing it? Who's ready to hear how Ellie gets treated like royalty walking through The Venetian Hotel and Casino? This is your oh-so-good reminder that it's never too late and don't hesitate to make a surprise or two happen in your own life. Someone catch the bouquet...at least to feed it to one of the over 200 animals at the Gentle Barn.
Diane Dieterich followed her heart right to a greener pasture — literally — that's the name of her farm rescue. Greener Pastures is a 2023 top-rated great non-profit award winner and they're featured on Redfin's Bucket List as a must-see in San Luis Obispo, California, so they got a lot of good going on and a lot of good to share. Their good includes Dinkey, who back in 2019 became a social media sensation as the pig who lost twenty-plus pounds and inspired others around him to do the same. And that's what Diane — and this farm rescue — is all about: inspiration, motivation and uplifting others to make good happen in as many selfless ways as possible. Can I get an oink-men? (Sorry, it's the best I can do on limited caffeine intake today).
Vanessa Branco shares the good power of Sunbolt, the company that creates solar powered work stations that can pretty much be set up anywhere. This is about clean energy, right from the sun above, creating connection. And not just for our phones and laptops, it's about connecting people, keeping us safe, and showing kindness to our planet. We talk about the way a simple idea takes flight, why working outside is an equally enticing place to sitting in a cubicle all day, and how the next generation is leading the way, literally, into our future. Who's ready for some good green times? It's our favorite color here at World Gone Good.
Diane Dieterich followed her heart right to a greener pasture — literally — that's the name of her farm rescue. Greener Pastures is a 2023 top-rated great non-profit award winner and they're featured on Redfin's Bucket List as a must-see in San Luis Obispo, California, so they got a lot of good going on and a lot of good to share. Their good includes Dinkey, who back in 2019 became a social media sensation as the pig who lost twenty-plus pounds and inspired others around him to do the same. And that's what Diane — and this farm rescue — is all about: inspiration, motivation and uplifting others to make good happen in as many selfless ways as possible. Can I get an oink-men? (Sorry, it's the best I can do on limited caffeine intake today).
Geri Jewell meets Carol Burnett in this good bonus. If you don't believe in visual and creative manifestation, you may just change your mind after hearing this story. If you can see it, you can make it happen. Anything is possible.
Heather Tyler loves being creative especially when she gets to be creative alongside other creative people. She's taken the leap into writing, producing and acting in her first independent film, Delta County, and what a leap it's been and continues to be. We talk everything from coming up with an idea to writing a script to actually filming it in not one but two different states, while doing it for the love of making something happen and surrounding yourself with people who share your vision. If you've ever thought, "Hey, I have this great idea for a movie" and then thought, "How the hell am I going to make a movie," Heather may give you the courage to go for it 'cause, well, she did. This is the good episode all about getting creative in every way possible.
Nicola Balmain wants us to see the world with purpose and passion. Through her company, Nanda Journeys, she strives to create and curate trips for travelers to explore the word in meaningful ways. They offer theme-focused journeys to global destinations that speak to people's interests and opens them to new experiences. It's all about the connection with people, communities, culture and heritage. If it's true it's not all about the destination, it's about the journey, then Nicola is living her good life purpose herself. Grab your passport and lets goooooooo!
Heather Tyler loves being creative especially when she gets to be creative alongside other creative people. She's taken the leap into writing, producing and acting in her first independent film, Delta County, and what a leap it's been and continues to be. We talk everything from coming up with an idea to writing a script to actually filming it in not one but two different states, while doing it for the love of making something happen and surrounding yourself with people who share your vision. If you've ever thought, "Hey, I have this great idea for a movie" and then thought, "How the hell am I going to make a movie," Heather may give you the courage to go for it 'cause, well, she did. This is the good episode all about getting creative in every way possible.
Wendy Miller loves cats and cards, games and fun. That last word is the most important one. She's someone who follows her fun and it's taken her to many hilarious places including CatCon. We talk about the secret to happiness, how expectations will get you every time, and why your dumbest idea might just be your best idea. If you're hiding your secret passion it's time to let your freak flag fly (or in this case, your kitty litter fly). Prepare to be inspired by someone who is not just meowing the meow, she's walking the cat walk (OK, I'll stop with the cat puns). And finally, Wendy was also in a Morris the Cat commercial as a child and if that doesn't make you listen to this episode, I don't know what will.
The last few weeks — days especially — have left many of us feeling frustrated, confused, lost and yes, even angry. So what can we do? Remind ourselves of the good of others and, in turn, the good within ourselves. Please enjoy this special bonus reminder of the good, your good and you ARE good. Don't you forget it.
Moses West believes every person on Earth should have access to clean drinking water. And he doesn't just believe it, he's doing something about it. Through The Moses West Foundation, he develops and implements atmospheric water generation technology to provide water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions worldwide, ensuring communities have access to essential services for health and well-being. He is literally making it rain, simply with the push of a button. We talk his family's military history, the needs of places from Flint, Michigan to Ukraine, and what the future has in store for all of us as our climate continues to change. This is the powerfully good — and honest — conversation you definitely need to hear.
Fraser Fitzgerald is the 'Nicest Chef in the World' (per him) and that's good enough for us. He joins us to share his good life story that begins where all good life stories should begin— with a big pivot and a huge leap of faith. Fraser went from a regular day job to making his own dreams come true all by believing in himself. He's a digital creator, serving up comforting, easy and budget-friendly plant based recipes to his more than 283K followers on Instagram alone. A triple threat as a chef, cookbook author, and a triplet himself — with an identical twin brother, fraternal twin sister, and younger brother — Fraser's a family-focused kinda guy. Need some inspiration for yourself? He's got the recipe and is here to share it.
Emmanuel "Nana" Akyen has had a life-long dream to play soccer and through it, he's uplifting others around him. His inspiring life story is driven by self-belief, tenacity, education, and understanding the importance of being part of a team. From his challenging childhood in Ghana to studying abroad in the UK to making his way to the United States, Nana is the best example of never giving up and never letting negativity win. He is the good force behind Legends Futbol Academy in Santa Barbara, CA. And he makes for a great coffee date to go on.
Kristi Amdahl is a coach and a wayfinder, which is exactly what it sounds like it means: She helps people find their way. From her own personal journey, working on her own self and issues, she connected with her inner voice, heard the message — literally — and took action to make change. Do you believe things just happen to you? Do you feel like life is out of your control? Do you question if you're on the right path? Join us for this oh-so-good conversation where we tackle all these questions and more with our good guest. And hopefully in doing so, we give you the inspiration to know you are exactly where you need to be and you can go anywhere you want to go.
Julie Novak and Sonyamia Blanco share their unique voices and stories through the Future Perfect Project, the organization that amplifies the voices of queer youth. While lawmakers are working overtime to pass laws and propose measures to limit the self-expression of LGBQTIA youth in schools and communities, The Future Perfect Project is encouraging the next generation to speak their truth and sing their songs of tomorrow. This organization produces and facilitates creative workshops, media projects, and performance opportunities for queer youth and allies, ages 13 - 22. From writer's rooms where they develop writing skills to Future Perfect Records, the 8-month online program for singer-songwriters, producers and musicians, to their own podcast project, I'm Feeling Queer Today!, where they encourage everyone to speak their minds, now more than ever, we need their vision of a better world.
Ryan Basham and Tara Devlin are two loud and proud activists, both on a good mission to keep democracy alive. Look, we get it, no one wants or needs another show about politics. But politics are part of our lives whether we like it or not so why don't we do what we do best here on World Gone Good and hold hands, dive in, and find the light in the darkness together? Ryan and Tara share their goals in spreading the word as they strive to do on a daily basis and offer up good suggestions for what we can do as citizens and members of our own communities both locally and at large. Is it too late? They don't think so. Is there any hope left? They say hell yeah and plenty of it if we all do our part. This is the good democracy show you've been needing.
Heather Tyler loves being creative especially when she gets to be creative alongside other creative people. She's taken the leap into writing, producing and acting in her first independent film, Delta County, and what a leap it's been and continues to be. We talk everything from coming up with an idea to writing a script to actually filming it in not one but two different states, while doing it for the love of making something happen and surrounding yourself with people who share your vision. If you've ever thought, "Hey, I have this great idea for a movie" and then thought, "How the hell am I going to make a movie," Heather may give you the courage to go for it 'cause, well, she did. This is the good episode all about getting creative in every way possible.
John Oberg is an animal advocate dedicated to making the world a kinder place for animals. A vegan since 2009 and full-time animal activist since 2012, he became an independent animal advocate in 2018 funded through individual donations, focusing on amplifying pro-animal content in the digital space. In his decade of experience in social media advocacy, he has made over 100 media appearances, has accumulated 250,000 followers, and his posts have been seen over 1 billion — YES — BILLION — times. This is a person who truly embraces an understanding of a World Gone Good simply through his daily activity. If you need some inspiration to do the same, look — and listen — no further than this amazing human.
Angela Briones is the proud host of The Gay Podcast for Everyone — and when she says everyone, she means everyone. Whether you align yourself as gay or straight, we all have room to learn from and grow with one another. And that includes Angela herself who discovered her own bias just by doing her show and that discovery caused her to dive deeper and become more open. We talk about the straight parents raising LGBQT kids she features on her show, how she came out to her own parents and whether or not they made it out alive from an escape room (not necessarily in that order). This is another example of how much the world is changing and evolving — and how acceptance, support and love are our shared experience.
Denise Montrose returns to the show so prepare for a moo-ving experience. We catch up about life on the farm including how she's gone from two to ten cows rescued (plus another twenty placed) and how she's grown as a person and a caregiver of animals over the last few years. Denise is one of the most honest guests we've ever had – meaning she wears her heart on her sleeve and at the same time questions her own steps she has made and keeps making in her effort to do more good in the world (who of us hasn't?). We also discuss the Valentine's Day FaceTime I received from one of her cows. Yes. Seriously. It happened. Great to have her back on another episode with us.
Dr. Marc-David Munk is a Canadian-American emergency physician and healthcare exec who didn't just answer his own true calling, he embraced it. In the last decade, he’s held senior leadership roles at various nontraditional healthcare delivery organizations in the US and abroad. He’s the author of Urgent Calls from Distant Places: An Emergency Doctor’s Notes about Life and Death on the Frontiers of East Africa, where he details his body of work with AMREF, the African Medical and Research Foundation, one of the continent's leading research organizations. But he wasn't just doing research in a lab, he was in the air and on the ground, helping people in need and saving lives. Dr. Marc is one of our most inspirational and uplifting guests who will definitely give you some perspective into your own life and world and maybe even challenge you into answering your own call.
Bad news got you down? Let's fix that right here, right now: Welcome to a very special episode of World Gone Good where we celebrate all the good news a-happenin' from around the globe. From an athlete that's jumping hurdles at 89 years old to the Maui banyan tree sprouting new growth after those devastating fires to good news from our own previous good guests, this is the good news only show that will remind you the world doesn't suck as much as the 24/7 news channels want us to believe. So, what's YOUR good news?
Scott an Bobby are Two Gay Grandpas Travel and they're not just seeing the world, they're inspiring the multi-generational gay and straight people with their message of love, commitment, and kindness. What started out as a way to keep in touch with their grandchildren has turned into an internet phenomenon as they quickly approach 100K followers on YouTube. This is the 45-year love story you need right in time for Valentine's Day and it's also a reminder to get out there and see the world — what are you waiting for?
Victoria Gaither returns to share her journey as a black skier, where she is breaking down stereotypes and changing the narrative. We talk about her own history, both as a professional journalist and avid skier, and how she's combining them to help others make a connection. And she's doing this not just by skiing but also through her writing about it in her local newspaper in Killington, Vermont. We also discuss why she prefers the cold over the warm in the winter and how ice hotels are still on both our bucket lists. Vic is one of our favorite good guests and we're thrilled to have her back to share more good with us.
Adele Wang helps sensitive, perfectionist, high-performing women create happiness and success in an imperfect world (gone good). She is a mentor, healer, stress relief specialist, and keynote speaker. She's also the host of her own podcast, All Things Human. Adele is here to share her thoughts on getting past the 'stuck' by listening to the fire in our bellies, living life with containers, and trusting our own true feeling — what we feel inside — to be our guide.
Jeffrey V. Noble is a man on a mission to educate, motivate and empower. From uplifting himself from the projects of NYC to traveling the world to study with and learn from spiritual teachers, he's a master healer and trainer who uses Pranic Healing, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and other healing modalities to help people overcome health and emotional challenges. His organization The Noble Touch was founded in 2010 to do just this and more. We talk the good of family, facing our own truths, and how shaving his eyebrows was the final step in his own transformation. This is the second episode in our three part series focusing on why so many of us feel stuck and how we can make the change to become unstuck, and Jeff is the perfect next guest to provide his perspective, knowledge and guidance.
Here we go out of the studio and into a parking lot filled with classic cars and the people who love them. We are talking with car buffs and collectors, how they find community through their cars, and just how much nostalgia plays into all of it. From this group's ring leader, Dirty Pete (that's his name, I can't make this stuff up), to Barracudas and Slug Bugs, rev up with us as we find the good in getting behind the wheel and owning a piece of history. Speaking of a good rev, our 2024 revolution is ELIMINATE EXPECTATIONS and this new episode does just that. Buckle up, kids...
Katherine Roberts is not shy to make change and take leaps in her life. She is the very definition of a self-starter and she’s got her own special recipe – you’ll see why we use that word when you listen – for good. Katherine shares the good of passing down family recipes, reinventing meals as well as yourself, and believing in yourself even when it's the scariest thing to believe in. This is the first new episode of 2024 and an oh-so-good way to kickstart the new year.
Rob Peterpaul, host of the Art of Kindness, joins us to close out 2023 in a good — and kind — way. The Art of Kindness is a positively star-studded podcast that converses with and celebrates artists from all areas of the entertainment industry who are using their platform to make the world a better place. We're just two Jersey boys talking Jersey Boys the musical, the good of making new year resolutions, and how pretty much everything can boil down between the choice of love over fear. It's our final episode of the year and it's a good one.
Keri and Tom from Snow Windows join us to spread some holiday cheer. It all started back in 2007 when one Christmas Eve Tom decided to surprise Keri with a snow scene on their kitchen window. Tom has always been artistic and thought of a new way to use regular snow spray to decorate. He sprayed it onto the window and brushed an image of a little house into the spray. And the rest, as they say, is holiday history. Keri and Tom share the joys of working together, the art of doing the art itself, why being nostalgic is a good thing and so much more merriness. Join us as we kick off the holiday season by skating across the pond to the UK to chat the good chat with our new friends at Snow Windows.
Time to breathe: Lydia Belton is Dr. Tranquility, a healer, wellness expert, date therapy practitioner, and embodiment of hope. You've seen her on ABC News & The View as well on the pages of Cosmopolitan & Redbook. Her own Dr. Tranquility Talks Conscious Dating & Relationships show is listened to by 2 million plus people every Friday across 13 FM & AM markets nationwide. Look, life hasn't been easy these last few years. It's more important now to focus on the present and our own happiness. This is what Dr. Tranquility is all about, she's an expert in following your passion and making moves happen. This is her good story.
Grey James is a good target. That's the title Grey has chosen in light of what is going on in Grey's community. And just what is going on? Well, the same thing that's happening across the United States: An assault on books, history, sex education, and in this case, LGBQT+ equality and rights. Grey shares his journey as an artist, how he strives to bring his community together, and why some people in that community are pushing back against it. Conversations like these aren't always the easiest to have, participate in and listen to, but that's what we do here at World Gone Good: We look for the light and find the light in the darkness to prove there's still good out there and lots of it. This good story—and it is a good story, trust us—was brought to our attention by previous good guest Laura Brody and for that we say, thank you.
Drew Droege invites us aboard Titanique, the smash hit off-Broadway parody of Titanic featuring the music of the one and only Celine Dion. Drew's career spans everything from Reno 911 to Bob's Burgers to Hot In Cleveland to his original videos re-imagining and saluting Chloe Sevigny, he's always careful not to cross the line to get a laugh. He shares what it's like growing up in a funny family, who his idols are, and why it's important to get a little nervous before taking center stage. Here's hoping we get through this new good episode without hitting an iceberg or being sued by Ms. Dion.
Everyone deserves one good scare on Halloween or so the movie of the same title tells us. Good guest Angelique Perrin returns on All Hallow's Eve to share her idea of what makes a frighteningly good time. From favorite scary movie to most memorable costume to the always fun question, 'Do you believe in ghosts?,' enjoy this creepy fun bonus. And yes those are host Steve Silverman's dogs dressed up as the cast of The Wizard of Oz. Woof.
BriAnna Garza prioritizes fun and enjoyment over winning at all costs and she believes this applies to life on and off the basketball court. She's been an athlete her entire life and now through her company Shooters Shoot she's empowering the next generation. This is her good story of taking her best shot and in the process helping develop active thinkers who strive to become the best versions of themselves thru her Elite Retreats, online courses and weekly newsletter that explores shot development and how it connects to thought development. Ready to take your best shot? BriAnna's here to help you get all net.
Angelique Perrin uses her voice not just to make a living but also to uplift those around her including the next generation of personalities and podcasters. She's the creator of Podcast Bootcamp which, in association with KCRW Radio in Los Angeles, brings the medium to the underserved artists. We talk about how she got discovered while waitressing, her Dark Shadows connection, what the lockdown did to her emotionally, and why her goal is to be a big sister to as many up and comers as possible. If you love podcasts as much as we do — um, we ARE a podcast, people — then this is the episode for you.
Jessi Keenan is proving one person can make a difference with her organization The Orange Cooler Project. This community-based project focuses on communication as much as doing good. Jessi speaks directly with people presently in between homes who live on the street in her neighborhood. She finds out what they need, tries her best to work with city hall, and encourages everyone to work together. And it all started with one orange cooler filled with ice water on a hot day. We also discuss her voice-over work and Steve’s inclination to fight with fellow swimmers at the pool in his gym. Trust us, it all ties together into something pretty damn good.
Faith Salie is our most visited good guest and we love having her. A portion of this show originally aired in Episode #61 — our 1 Year Anniversary Show. But we felt like you needed to hear the full, unedited conversation, recorded over two years ago. Prepare for a TALF update, the importance of voting, a discussion of what Steve is wearing, Nancy Pelosi impressions by Faith's daughter, and the turning of tables as Faith commandeers the mic away from Steve and puts him in the good hot seat. Our 3rd anniversary is fast approaching and we thought it would be fun to present you with the original, unfiltered recordings of some of our favorite guests. Warning: If you're offended by anything said in this episode, blame Faith.
Crystal Carson originally joined us way back for Episode #15, our very first ever Holidays Gone Good. In that episode, you got to hear a portion of her magical holiday story. Now you get to hear the whole thing completely unedited. As we approach our 3rd anniversary, we thought it'd be fun to dive back in and share some of the stories that got left on the cutting room floor. Crystal originally told this story to host Steve Silverman over 30 years ago and it stuck with him. So let's all get our jingle on a lil' early, yes? This is Crystal Carson's full holiday gone good story.
Wicked's Wendy Worthington originally joined us for Episode #32, Musicals Gone Good. But what you hear in that episode is only a small portion of our full recorded conversation. And since we're headed toward our 3rd anniversary and kickoff of Season 4, we thought we'd feature some of our favorite good guests' complete unedited and uninterrupted recordings. We're starting with Wendy, who was a cast member of the Broadway touring company of the Wizard Of Oz themed musical, Wicked. Steve and Wendy first met in a theatre company back in the '90s and have shared a friendship ever since, so this one is a real fun one as they catch up and talk all things musicals (complete with umms and ya knows and likes not removed).
Wendy Madore is the good force behind Daytime Stars & Strikes, the annual weekend of events to benefit the Autism Society of America and the Jerry verDorn Scholarship Fund, which sends children on the spectrum to theatre camps. Her vision is to raise awareness and funds for individuals living with autism, to ensure all receive opportunities to learn, socialize, establish friendships, receive educational and employment opportunities, and live their best life without barriers and in a safe environment. Wendy proves, year after year, you can make good things happen — in 2022, DS&S raised over $35,000 —and have a great time doing it at the same time. We talk bowling, barbecues, and Bauers, as well as her enduring friendship with actor Jerry verDorn.
Jessi Keenan is proving one person can make a difference with her organization The Orange Cooler Project. This community-based project focuses on communication as much as doing good. Jessi speaks directly with people presently in between homes who live on the street in her neighborhood. She finds out what they need, tries her best to work with city hall, and encourages everyone to work together. And it all started with one orange cooler filled with ice water on a hot day. We also discuss her voice-over work and Steve’s inclination to fight with fellow swimmers at the pool in his gym. Trust us, it all ties together into something pretty damn good.
Pip Lilly's story could be a musical but he's already been starring in a musical so let's focus on that good part, shall we? For The Love of a Glove was featured back on our Musicals Gone Good episode and that's the same show Pip took the stage for as Jackson 5 patriarch, Joe Jackson. But there's more to his story including a Covid lockdown and a battle with stage 3 cancer — how's that for a twist you didn't see coming? This is one person's journey to finding himself, embracing his truth, and yeah, throw in a couple of puppets and Michael Jackson and we are right back to where we started, kids. Enjoy the show...
BONUS GOOD: MIC DROP MOMENT. Stop what you are doing and listen to this. Trust us, you'll be glad you did.
BriAnna Garza prioritizes fun and enjoyment over winning at all costs and she believes this applies to life on and off the basketball court. She's been an athlete her entire life and now through her company Shooters Shoot she's empowering the next generation. This is her good story of taking her best shot and in the process helping develop active thinkers who strive to become the best versions of themselves thru her Elite Retreats, online courses and weekly newsletter that explores shot development and how it connects to thought development. Ready to take your best shot? BriAnna's here to help you get all net.
Time to breathe: Lydia Belton is Dr. Tranquility, a healer, wellness expert, date therapy practitioner, and embodiment of hope. You've seen her on ABC News & The View as well on the pages of Cosmopolitan & Redbook. Her own Dr. Tranquility Talks Conscious Dating & Relationships show is listened to by 2 million plus people every Friday across 13 FM & AM markets nationwide. Look, life hasn't been easy these last few years. It's more important now to focus on the present and our own happiness. This is what Dr. Tranquility is all about, she's an expert in following your passion and making moves happen. This is her good story.
Merman Andrew dove into his dream life, under the sea, where he's loving every fin-tastic moment of it. You may have seen him on Netflix's hit show MERPEOPLE or perhaps just swimming in a nearby cove. Wherever, this is the good and inspiring journey of one (mer)person embracing their creativity, as well as their passion, putting fear aside and simply going for it. Who knows, maybe Merman Andrew will inspire you to take the plunge into whatever you've been dreaming about. Get ready for one of the funnest conversations we've ever had on our show. You'll definitely be left with a smile on your face after listening to this one.
What's NOT good about volunteering? THAT is the real question. Four good volunteers — Susan Buus, Laura Grablutz, Brian Heckman, and Betsy Zajko — share their passion for giving back, giving time, and simply giving to others. From building skateboards for foster kids to furnishing homes for victims of domestic abuse to building mini snowmen for hospice care, the sky is literally the limit in what these good people have done and keep doing for their community. World Gone Good strives to uplift and inspire you, yes you, good listener. After you finish this good new episode, ask yourself this question: Where are you ready to go and volunteer?
Sarah Woodard returns for her second visit to our show and this time she's asking you to Give A Fk (her words and request, not mine, but I agree 100%). Sarah is a prolific children's book author who has focused on nature, the planet, and helping kids and families connect more to it. She's now leveling up her good with a new podcast, Give A Fk, where she shares her personal insights and journey in hopes of inspiring her listeners to simply care and celebrate what happens when you do. We talk spirit guides, dreams that literally do come true, and the pluses and minuses of traveling cross-country with three cats. Give A F*k and enjoy, people!
Claudia McMullin saves and protects animals one cup of coffee at a time. Yes, you read that sentence correctly. Claudia brews up something pretty genius with her Hugo Coffee and Fluffy Cow Coffee brands: Every single sale sends $2.50 to dogs and cows and chickens and rescue animals of all kinds. With 400 million cups of coffee being downed daily just here in the United States, well, you do the math to think of all the good that can be done. She's here to share her continuing good journey, how she went from New York litigator to Utah coffee shop owner, and exactly how they come up with the names for their different roasters (which are pretty moo-velous if you ask me). Join us as we raise a cup of Joe to this entrepreneur who is focused on making the good happen.
Want more GOOD? Check out our new Patreon site for more of this here World Gone Good: https://www.patreon.com/WorldGoneGood
Claudia McMullin saves and protects animals one cup of coffee at a time. Yes, you read that sentence correctly. Claudia brews up something pretty genius with her Hugo Coffee and Fluffy Cow Coffee brands: Every single sale sends $2.50 to dogs and cows and chickens and rescue animals of all kinds. With 400 million cups of coffee being downed daily just here in the United States, well, you do the math to think of all the good that can be done. She's here to share her continuing good journey, how she went from New York litigator to Utah coffee shop owner, and exactly how they come up with the names for their different roasters (which are pretty moo-velous if you ask me). Join us as we raise a cup of Joe to this entrepreneur who is focused on making the good happen. Want MORE GOOD? Check out our new Patreon page for stories, videos, recipes, photos, and so much more WORLD GONE GOOD: https://www.patreon.com/WorldGoneGood
Steve invites you to check out patreon.com/worldgonegood where you can subscribe to our brand new complimentary site with the same goal as our show: To inspire, uplift and bring more good to the world. We'll be featuring previous and upcoming guests, good new videos, recipes, previews, sneak peeks and all kinds of new and more good. We'd love your support as we continue to bring you this here good podcast. Thanks for checking it out.
One year ago, Kathleen O'Grady and Mari Weiss joined us to talk CHANGE GONE GOOD. Sooooo Steve thought it would be a good idea to bring them back on and see how their big life changes have been treating them. Life is all about taking chances and sometimes even big risks like moving back home, leaving your longtime job, and/or getting a dog. Did everything work out the way they expected? Do they have any regrets? Did they all get back together to do a play? All these questions and more will be answered, good listener. Oh wait we have one more just for you: What big change have you been wanting to make? Maybe this catch-up episode will inspire you to go for it (you should totally go for it).
Lolita Milena is an author, actress and advocate living her life as a paraplegic and letting nothing stand in her way. Born in Siberia, she immigrated to the United States in 2002 as a toddler with her then foster family. The fall of the same year through child abuse, she was left permanently paralyzed. Lolita was adopted by a family which included other siblings with disabilities. But to this day, she continues to stand by the motto she created as a child: 'Just because you have a disability doesn't mean you can't follow your dreams.' And you better believe she's got big dreams. We love — and celebrate — guests that uplift and inspire us and Lolita is taking us next level in this new episode.
Dave Humphreys asks, What Does Star Wars Mean To You? We capitalized every letter in that because that's the title of his very own podcast where he asks that very same question. This is one man's journey to destroy the Death Star or you know find out the impact this 40-plus year old film franchise has had on people, explore the importance of fandom, and discover the good in being a rebel and going against the establishment. This is Dave's third visit with us and dare we say our favorite one yet? We dare because it's all about marketing, people. 'Episode this like you will, yessss' - Yoda.
Hey look — you get a bonus! This counts as a sign! Here's some cutting room floor content from my conversation with my sister Parri Willie about signs, messages from the other side, and what they mean to her. Check out the full episode now playing wherever you pod best.
Have you ever received a sign from the other side? Wait. Do you BELIEVE in signs from the other side? We are talking angels and spirits here reaching out across the ether with a message. Is it possible? Or do you think it's all just coincidence or people reading more into it than is actually there? Three good guests — Michelle Roe, Donna Perkett, and Parri Willie — join us to share the signs they each received, what it meant to them, and by doing so, you get to judge for yourself (and we all know how judgey you love to be — don't deny it). And bonus: Host Steve Silverman shares a true story that may turn even the most strident non-believer into a "Yep, that was definitely some something goin' on there" believer after all. The signs are all around us...
Sara Fenton put on a pair of roller skates during the lockdown and now she's training for the roller derby. Is it really that easy? No, of course not. But you have to start with one step, or in this case, one skate (preferably two for balance purposes). This is one person's good story of facing the uncomfortable, working past the fear, and reconnecting with their own personal joy. It's also the story of being a bad ass in the rink with a half-shaved head and at the same time embracing your inner princess side by getting to wear sparkly dresses. When things got dark during the lockdown, Sara found her light and she's sharing how far it's taken her. Let's roll, people.
Orazie Cook is the founder of Praline's Backyard Foundation where their mission is simple: To empower and support domestic violence survivors and house their pets. How exactly, you ask? By understanding that one of the challenges domestic violence survivors may face is finding a safe place to keep their beloved pets during times of transition. Praline's Backyard offers free — YES FREE — temporary housing for survivors' pets via pet boarding facilities and pet fosters throughout the United States. They have a growing network of pet boarding facilities and pet fosters throughout the country where they ask these boarding facilities to house pets for seven days, and after which pet fosters will house pets for up to 6 months. How good is that? Orazie is a force of good nature who sees a "no" as an opportunity to try again and work harder. If you're in need of a big dose of inspiration, this is the person to turn to.
Jody Boyman is saving the world one meal at a time. Alongside her brother, she co-founded Hungry Planet Foods where they're reducing the amount of conventional meat consumption in an easy, impactful and tasty way. How much are we talking here? 87% emissions savings. 91% water savings. 70% land savings. And did we mention the animal lives savings? That's priceless, amIright? Jody started her career as a world traveling photographer for the likes of Life Magazine so she's made it her career to better understand this planet we all share. She encourages people to ask themselves, "Hey, what problem can I help fix?" Best of all, she's our neighbor / friend / dinner buddy and we are happy to share her with all of you.
Rickie Tice is the founder of Samson's Sanctuary but make no mistake about it: This isn't their first foster/rescue/dog loving adventure. And as many times as they tried to move away from it — including another entire career where they won a Grammy, people — the call of the wild or the cuddly and cute always brings them back. We talk the good of rescue, how fostering even for a weekend can make all the difference, and how we met in a parking lot where they tried to pawn off the cutest pit mix ever (I almost said yes). We love our four legged friends, don't we? You'll love the good Samson's Sanctuary brings each and every day.
Our celebration of Happy Birthday McKenna continues with Colbert Albert, Saratoga Ballantine and Karl T. Wright sharing their good stage time together. We talk the power of connecting and connection, why you should always fully show up, and the thrill of finally performing live before a real in-person audience after this Covid mess. Heather L. Tyler also joins us right in time to share her inspiration and tell us something good. Note from Steve: I spent three full months with these lovely people and I'd do it again in a second because the play's definitely the thing.
What's good about live theatre? We dive in with the cast of Happy Birthday McKenna to find out the backstage happenings, the onstage process, auditioning, rehearsing, how Covid changed everything and what happens when the power goes completely out on show night. McKenna was my first new show in 19 years and to quote the character of Julie, 'We had a time.' So come have a time with us as the curtain rises for this brand new episode.
Author/podcaster/producer Wendy Miller is adding a new title: Advice Giver/Oracle Card Maker/Purveyor of Gay Soothsaying (OK, that's more than just one title). Look, she's always loved games and is very in touch with her psychic side and when she needs advice herself, who does she go to? Her favorite most lethally honest gay BFFs. So why not share their wisdom with the world? And that, my good friends, is how her deck of oracle deliciousness, Ask Your Gay BFF, was brought to life. Now this is more than just a deck of great one-liners, it's a chance to reflect on our lives and get specific with what we want moving forward. Get your question ready because your gay BFF is ready to give you the answer, whether you like it or not...
Aleksandra Schiffer is the good force behind I Stand With My Pack rescue. But this isn't just another story about someone saving animals, this is the story of someone working to reshape how we see the planet itself and how we need to connect more with it and with each other. From her humble childhood living in war-torn countries, Aleksandra has a much different perspective than many other people and she's using that to try and heal the world as we know it. If you're needing a blast of inspiration, look no further than this uplifting voice supporting nature and animals alike.
Composer/singer/songwriter Mary Edwards returns for her second visit to the show and this time, you better bundle up because she's taking us on a trip to the Arctic to listen to glaciers, wind, water and more. I mean, sure, this is a podcast so of course we should be listening but we're gonna listen to a glacier? Sorta, sorta not; what we're gonna do is hear Mary's good travels up to the northernmost part of our world to record and then compose one of her original soundscapes that's all focused on nature and Planet Earth. This is a good adventure you didn't even know was possible and Mary is the perfect tour guide. Best part is you don't have to bring a coat to enjoy her good story.
Sarah Woodard returns for her second visit to our show and this time she's asking you to Give A Fk (her words and request, not mine, but I agree 100%). Sarah is a prolific children's book author who has focused on nature, the planet, and helping kids and families connect more to it. She's now leveling up her good with a new podcast, Give A Fk, where she shares her personal insights and journey in hopes of inspiring her listeners to simply care and celebrate what happens when you do. We talk spirit guides, dreams that literally do come true, and the pluses and minuses of traveling cross-country with three cats. Give A F*k and enjoy, people!
Will you shop blind? Brad and Bryan Manning from Two Blind Brothers are asking if you are up for the challenge of buying something you can't see. Which both ironically and literally they've both been doing since they were kids. These two real-life brothers, living with a rare form of blindness, launched their own clothing and gift line where 100% of the profits are donated to Foundation Fighting Blindness to help find a cure for blindness. How good is that? Oh did we also mention they're both hilarious? Seriously, this is one of the funniest conversations we've ever had the good pleasure of taking part in.
Kavitha Rajagopalan is one of my favorite people on planet Earth and oh what a journey she has had over the past couple of years. No parent should ever go through what she and her husband Matt have gone through getting the news that one of their children has a life-threatening illness. But fear not, there is a happy ending to this story. Kavi shares her good of overcoming the most difficult of odds, not just to survive but learning how to thrive. This is Part 1.
Kavitha Rajagopalan is one of my favorite people on planet Earth and oh what a journey she has had over the past couple of years. No parent should ever go through what she and her husband Matt have gone through getting the news that one of their children has a life-threatening illness. But fear not, there is a happy ending to this story. Kavi shares her good of overcoming the most difficult of odds, not just to survive but learning how to thrive. This is Part 1.
Russia’s war against Ukraine has triggered unprecedented and united responses of aid and volunteerism in support for Ukraine from within Ukraine and around the world. And in a true global effort, people are contributing whatever actions, skills, and resources they can. HUMANΨUNITY is a documentary exploring the inspiring and impactful stories of ordinary people from all over the world and all walks of life doing extraordinary things to support Ukraine in its David versus Goliath stand again Russia. Two of the guiding good forces behind the documentary — Mark Fisher and Mike Banker — sit down to share their behind-the-scenes story. Courage, resilience, hope — this is what HUMANΨUNITY is all about.
The Saugus Marching Centurions have a good goal: To journey to and play in our nation's capitol this Memorial Day. So how do they get there? One competition at a time. Join our good guests, high school band mom Jackie MacDougall and high school band member Raquel Atilano, as they share their story of triumph and tribulation. It hasn't been an easy path as they've had to handle the repeated change out of band directors and a school shooting. And through their love of music, they have found friendship, community, and a greater purpose. Plus we talk about how Jackie launched an entire podcast documenting the band and its evolution, first musical instruments and endeavors, and yes, the Bionic Woman also comes up because how could she not? Strike up the band, y'all, and get ready to march.
Get your merry on with Erica Hubbard, Brett Chapin, Sage Justice and our special musical guests Shannon Sibbald and Quaid Lagan all joining us for our third annual Holidays Gone Good special episode. We're talking ugly holiday sweaters, hot cider recipes, letters to Santa, elves on shelves, and three great organizations you can learn more about and support. This is one of our favorite shows to put together every year and this one does not disappoint so fry up some latkes and get ready to get frisky under the mistletoe, we are turning on the Christmas tree lights to make the world a little bit brighter.
L.L. Abbott has authored over 30 books and published over 20 of them and that's just in the past 6 years. Talk about prolific, which is some of what we talk about. We also chat up how everyone has a story to share, how to overcome those stuck moments in both writing and life, and she gives me tips for my own cozy mystery I'm working on. Our good conversation is what happens when two writer types get together to start yappin'. Who knows, it may inspire you to tell your own story — how good is that? Books make the best holiday gifts. Visit www.llabbott.com to see all the great ones she has to offer.
Dogs + Vodka = The best episode ever. Allison Lange and Julia Pennington started their relationship working together in animal rescue and they've evolved it into their award-winning business, Hera The Dog Vodka. We'll give you a moment to go back and reread that last sentence. We promise it'll make sense when you hear these two amazing women tell their story of friendship, their passion for animals, and their foray into the world of making cocktails that benefit shelters and rescues. 50% of the profit from every sale of their products do just that — they give back to help animals everywhere. But wait, it gets better —they have special holiday gift boxes where 100% of the profits go to shelters and rescues, proving these two aren't messing around, they are getting it done and doing it in a super fun way. Grab a cocktail and join us for this brand new episode that's sure to put a smile on your face.
Are you brave? Heather Vickery wants to know. She is all about taking chances and making changes especially if it means leveling-up your life. She did it. For real. Did it herself. And you can too. In this brave episode she shares the good of being true to yourself, listening to and honoring your inner voice, and the steps you can take right now — they are so simple — to living your life bravely. Come roar with us. Heather is the host of The Brave Files podcast and co-host of the podcast Was It Chance? She's the creative force behind her own company Vickery and Co.
Let's Give Thanks: Over 25 guests reveal what they are thankful for on this special edition of World Gone Good. From lifelong friends of our host Steve to former good guests to upcoming good guests to a few celebrities thrown in just to see if you are paying attention, this is the ultimate celebration of sharing the love. There is so much good out there, so much to be thankful for. Enjoy this one and ask yourself if you had the chance to give thanks of your own, what would you say? Who would you thank? Reminder: You have that opportunity each and every single day. Listen to our guests give their thanks, then go give your own. Shouldn't that be what this upcoming holiday called Thanksgiving be all about?
Random Acts of Kindness' Brooke Jones spreads kindness each and every day. She shares how you can make a difference too, whether it be at home, school or work. Our good chat includes us discussing how marrying someone with different political sensibilities changed her own idea of kindness, what a RAKtivist is and how to become one, and easy, simple ways we all can take action to make this world of ours a lot kinder. And the timing for this could be more perfect: Sunday, November 13th is World Kindness Day. For great, free resources, visit www.randomactsofkindness.org.
Cheryl L. Bedford is the driving force behind Women of Color Unite — WOCU — and there's something you need to know from the start: She is OK with being uncomfortable — in fact, she prefers it that way — because she believes that's where positive change happens. WOCU is the LA-based social action and non-profit organization focused on remedying the inequities that face Women of Color in today’s entertainment and media industries. This group stands for hiring parity, fair treatment, and providing resources to Women of Color content creators industry-wide. As a collective of over 5,000 women and growing, they work to create opportunities for engagement between hiring agents and their active membership of experienced women to address the indefensible precept: “I don’t know any WOC that I can hire.” In this episode, Cheryl brings the conversation of race and inequality front and center, providing solutions that are action-oriented and achievable. This is one good — GREAT — conversation.
Charlie Zimbron is the co-founder of F#k Up Nights, the international live series that celebrates our professional failures by putting them front and center to to celebrate them. This is the B side to all our stories, the parts we all try to hide, with the goal of improving the culture around failure, gender inequality in the workplace and building safe and diverse spaces. What's your most embarrassing moment? Your biggest public fail? That cringe moment you have kept tucked away and pretend like it happened to someone else? For every success story, there are a hundred plus fails. Let's find the good in F#k Up Nights! Please note: This episode contains the word F#k in it, multiple times, and not with the * or the # replacing the missing letters. Consider yourself F#king warned.
Jee-Hoon Krska is the founder of Keys 2 Success, the Newark, NJ-based organization that brings free piano lessons for local kids to learn, create, and enjoy. Music is the great unifier and students who learn to play a musical instrument excel in other areas including math, science, and their own personal confidence and happiness. Jee-Hoon is a proud American immigrant and she herself played piano alongside her twin sister growing up. This is her good journey that takes her life-long passion of music and delivers it to families and helps build community, one note at a time.
Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins thrives by learning and listening. An actress who's gone from Jelly's Last Jam to Caroline, or Change on Broadway to TV roles including her 20 year run as "Livie" on All My Children, she's reached a place in her life where she's comfortable with who she is and yet she continues to still strive to evolve as an artist and as a person. She's the guiding force — literally she wrote, produced, directed, acted, and cooked too — for and behind her horror feature film, Red Pill. We talk the good of wearing multiple hats, spending time with people who don't share our political views, playing a love triangle where no one has sex with each other, and why everyone deserves one good scare just in time for Halloween.
It's our second year anniversary — time flies when you're spreading good. If you've listened before, you know we end every episode with our guests finishing this statement, "Tell me something good." So to mark this special day, we've decided to look back as we move forward and deliver you a gift: The complete 100 episode compilation of every single guest we've ever had, in order, telling us something good. Listen to it first thing to start your day or when you're winding down after a long one, bookmark and save it for the future, use it for when you need a lift, a blast of inspiration, a positive reminder that there is light out there in the darkness, there is good. Come on now, tell me something good...
Enjoy Emmy-winner Faith Salie in this bonus content from our 100th episode. Who says just because it lands on the cutting room floor it will never be heard from again? Not us! Be sure to listen to our full 100th show to really get the full good experience. We'll be back with Season 3 and brand new episodes the first Wednesday, October 5th.
Celebrate our 100th episode with Emmy-winner Faith Salie who returns to takeover the microphone and get the goods from regular World Gone Good host, Steve Silverman. It's a good time as we chat about following our passion to taking big swings and even bigger chances, to our favorite guests and shows and everything good in between. And don't you worry, you're in safe hands with Faith running the show. After all, she has a little experience from being a regular commentator on CBS Sunday Morning, a regular guest on NPR's Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me, a published author of her deeply personal and especially hilarious memoir Approval Junkie, an off-Broadway performer bringing the pages of her book to life in her one person show of the same name, and oh yeah, this is her fourth time on THIS show - so we're good, you're good, it's all good. This is a big milestone for our little good show that could, would, and still does, and as always we say to you, from our loyal week-to-week listeners to those tuning in for the first time, THANK YOU.
Social media influencer Richard Biglia shares what's good about sharing your life — and NOT sharing your life — for the whole world to see, judge, and comment. He's a former dancer turned fitness trainer who prides himself on keeping his online presence real, positive, and yes, good. Are you sharing your authentic self with the world on Instagram? Or have you retouched a few pics before posting, my friends? Guilty. Right here. I'll admit it. We chat about embracing our online selves, how we portray and promote ourselves, and how we hope people will see us when we do. Face it: How we communicate has changed greatly thanks to the Insta, the FB, the tweeting, and twerking on the TikTok. Plus Richard shares one of his greatest accomplishments: Becoming a US citizen. This episode is all about keeping it real and keeping it real good.
Denise Montrose returns with an update of all the good that is happening at Samma Farm Tennessee Cow Rescue. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests including Denise. Check out her original episode with us — it's the #4 most downloaded we've ever had — in the episode guide wherever you pod. Look for it on September 22, 2021.
Ricarda Franco loves dogs. How much, you ask? So much so that she started her own rescue, the Dexter Foundation, where they take the dogs at the shelters no one else wants. And how successful have they been at it? Homing their 1,000th dog is a good sign of success. This is one person's good story of following their heart and loving every minute of it. And guess what? You can too.
Claire St. Amant is a true crime reporter/journalist/producer/host/story-hunter/and, as she calls herself, general mischief-maker. Her credits include 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, CBS News, and now, most recently, she's the producer and host of her own true crime podcast, Final Days On Earth. So what's good about a crime and a crime story? Why are so many of us hooked on shows like Dateline and podcasts like Claire's own? Is it simply voyeuristic entertainment? Or does it go deeper into who we are as human beings and what life — and death — lessons we learn on our own journey? It's always good to have a fellow podcaster on the show and Claire definitely brings the good and the goods. Someone cue the Law and Order Duh-Dummmmm...
Kristy Hinds returns with an update of all the good that is happening in her world, including Launch It Ladies. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests including Kristy. Check out her original episodes — there are two — with us in the episode guide wherever you pod — look for them on November 18, 2020 and December 29, 2021.
Jon Dengler is all about the work, the work ethic, and how it helps give people back their value and meaning. He's the owner of The Well in Tampa, Florida, where they have three goals: Needs Met — The most basic and concrete way to love our neighbors is to look out for them and make sure they have what it is they need. If your neighbor is thirsty, give them something to drink; Bridges Built — We meet needs in ways that give us opportunities to build relationships within which we are able to meet one another's deeper social, psychological, and spiritual needs as well; and A City Made Whole — We cling to this vision and aim for our city! Tampa can be a truly WellBuilt City and that vision is worth investing all that we have and all that we are to fully realize this ambition of community development. Jon creates relationships through purpose, doing so through putting bikes together and so much more. He's also the host of his own podcast, The Work Ethic. This is his good journey.
Denise Montrose returns with an update of all the good that is happening at Samma Farm Tennessee Cow Rescue. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests including Denise. Check out her original episode with us — it's the #4 most downloaded we've ever had — in the episode guide wherever you pod. Look for it on September 22, 2021.
Alex Roque is President and Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center in New York City. The center was founded in 2002 in memory of Ali Forney, a homeless gender-nonconforming youth who was forced to live on the streets, where they were tragically murdered. Committed to saving the lives of LGBTQ+ young people, its mission is to protect them from the harms of homelessness and empower them with the tools needed to live independently. A 24-hour program, The Ali Forney Center never closes its doors. It provides more than just a bed and food for those in need — from initial intake at our drop-in center to transitional housing and job readiness training, it provides homeless LGBTQ+ youth a safe, warm, supportive environment to escape the streets. Alex shares with us his own amazing journey working with the center, which just celebrated its 20th anniversary.
Tanya Perez and Ryan Basham return with an update of all their good. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests. Check out their original episode with us — it's the #8 most downloaded we've ever had — in the episode guide wherever you pod. Look for it on February 24, 2021.
Kate — the Girl With A Microphone, as she's known to millions across social media, sees herself more as an agitator than an activist. What happens when a fun prankster turns into a political influencer? We're gonna find out. We're also gonna find out why she feels we must hold our politicians — on both sides — accountable and what it's like for us to both be in the Dead Dad Society (sorry, Mom). Politics can make for awkward conversation, but don't worry, we know how to make it good. Be brave and join us for this new episode.
Dennis Hensley loves the 1970s — especially TV game shows that played in the middle of the day. His passion for games led to the creation of The MisMatch Game, the live game show that just passed the $200,000 raised amount benefiting the LA Gay & Lesbian Center. We talk the good of a good game, poking fun at ourselves and others, and helping others along the way. Dennis is also the co-creator of his own card game, You Don't Know My Life, and the host of his own podcast Dennis Anyone? Cook up some Rice-A-Roni, get your Turtle Wax out, and get your game on with this new episode!
Ellie Laks' journey started with one small goat and turned itself into an animal sanctuary that's enlightened the entire world, the Gentle Barn. This is the inspiring story of following your dreams, listening to your soul, and letting your heart be your guide. It delivers proof that each and every one of us has the good in us to make anything - truly anything - happen. Plus her husband gave her a surprise wedding - this part alone you are gonna wanna hear — trust us.
Mariann Aalda is an advocate of aging shamelessly. She celebrates her age — and life — right where she is. We talk the good of aging fiercely, the difference between agism and ableism, why it's good to laugh our way through whatever life throws at us, and her acting life, including her time on The Edge of Night and playing Dorothy's cousin in The Wiz (this last story alone is worth the listen). If you've been hung up on your own digits, it's time to get over it, and get good with Aging Gone Good.
Margot Potter--the ever sparkly and always creative one--returns for a good animal catch up. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests. Check out her original episode with us in the episode guide wherever you pod--look for it on November 4, 2020.
Have you lost your wonder? Scot Nery invites you to reconnect with it. From magic to juggling to life itself, Scot's relationship with wonder is what drives him, what fuels him, what gives him purpose. And he's definitely got the goods as he's the creator of Trip Advisor's #1 recommended show in Los Angeles, 'Boobitrap.' This is a good conversation about believing in not just ourselves but also in the things we can and can not control. Isn't that what magic is all about? Hope you enjoy this back to good basics conversation about the good of wonder.
Scott McKenzie & Jeremy Uhrich return with an update of all their good happenings via Cookies For Caregivers. As we head toward our 100th episode we will be featuring mini-good-reunions with some of our favorite and most popular guests -- these two gents are the first up. Check out their original episode in the episode guide wherever you pod - - look for April 7, 2021.
Who's ready to make a change? Kathleen O'Grady and Mari Weiss return to the show to talk about their big life changes: Kathleen got a dog and Mari moved back home to Chicago. Oh and I made a change myself when I quit my job a few weeks back. Change is scary stuff--the unknown is scary stuff. But change can be so necessary and so rewarding. Join us as we explore the good of change and see if that change you've been thinking about gets a little push, maybe this helps you take the next leap.
Amy Ball lost her joy. So she hung up some signs with a phone number and requested people to call her if they had seen it. What happened next is the magic of connecting with strangers and sharing the same experience. Amy originally recorded this story with me over two years ago and I recently rediscovered it and thought, "This would make a great episode of World Gone Good." And then I thought, "This would be even better if Amy joined me today and shared her thoughts on it now." So that's what we did, people. Join us in our World Gone Good time machine as we travel back to 2020 and then return to the present on our search for joy.
Alethea Kehas started listening to her inner-voice and her life changed forever. Look, we're all stressed out, right? The last two years have been a shit show (how's that for World Gone Good positive language?). Alethea's stress may have happened a few years prior, but we can all relate to the headache or the migraine or the stomach problems. She decided to make a change, a mindset change, and it reverberated through her and healed her physically. Powerful stuff, the mind, heart and gut, donchathink? We talk about this, her practicing and teaching yoga and reiki, as well as her work as an author with two books published. And it all comes back to one common good thread: Listening - and trusting - our inner-voice.
Mark Longo has a squirrel named Peanut for a roommate & with over 1 million followers on TikTok, there ain't nothin' wrong with that. So many good questions to answer: Does he have rabies? What about Mark? Where does he go to the bathroom? Again, what about Mark? And most importantly, is a squirrel the best wingman ever? When we first saw Mark and Peanut on social media, we immediately shouted, "What the what!" Then we said, "We gotta have them on our show." This is the feel good, squirrel/human, real life roomies story you didn't know you needed to hear but damn will you be smiling once you do. (No animals were harmed in the making of this episode. But again, what about Mark?).
Brodi Nicholas shares the good of Campaign One At A Time, the non-profit that helps families in need. Sometimes things start in the simplest of ways: Brodi would wave to his young neighbor Sam every day as he left for the day. Then one day, he didn't see Sam playing outside. One day turned into many days: Sam was sick and Brodi came up with an idea to help him. And that's really as simple as it gets. One person bringing together many people to help others. Brodi never saw himself leading a charity for children but now there's no other way he can see his life. Grab some inspiration from someone doing some serious good in the world.
What's good about the farmers market? Smiling people, locally grown food, and live musicians. It's a World Gone Good first as we venture out of the studio and into the actual real world to talk with good people about the good of our weekly farmers market. Get ready for seaweed experts, butterfly enthusiasts, seed swappers, an accordion/harmonica/drum playing one man band, and so much more. This is where a community comes together. And that's a good thing.
Stefanie Schaffer went on a family vacation and her life changed in an instant. She joins us to share her incredible journey of self-discovery, how she found the light in the darkness, and how she inspires others to do the same. Her memoir, Without Any Warning: Casualties of a Caribbean Vacation, is available wherever you book best. This story is raw, honest, and unfiltered. Stefanie opens up, giving us her first-hand retelling of the Bahamian vacation that changed her life and the chapters that followed after. From turmoil, stress, and pain, to pride, joy, and forgiveness. This episode will definitely inspire you and put your own life into perspective.
TikTok phenomenon Danielle Allore-Taylor brings teddy bears back to life. Picking up the tools of the trade from her mom, she refurbishes and rejuvenates our favorite childhood friends--you know--the stuffed animal kind. At 6'1", she calls herself 'A Tall Glass of Anxiety' and has found joy in helping others this way. Danielle is all heart and that's what she puts into every 'Fluff' she works on. She's proof that if you dream it, you can live it. This is her good story.
NY Times Best Selling Author Kathy Freston shares her journey in becoming 'The Veganist' - a nickname Bono himself gave her and hey, if Bono gives you a nickname, you take the nickname. She's written/co-written 9 books, spent time on Oprah, Ellen, Good Morning America and more, where she's explained her belief of 'leaning in.' What is 'leaning in?' Give a listen to this brand new episode and find out. In equally important good happenings, Kathy is actually our neighbor here in town, I literally bumped into her on line - not online - I'm talking an actual line of people and possibly the greatest thing ever: My husband is kinda her stalker...but in a GOOD way. How do I know it's a GOOD way? Kathy hugs her stalker every time she sees him. That's how I know.
Author Sarah Woodard wants to empower the next generation of young minds. She's had over 40 of her books published--all of them focusing on activism. Whether it's saving animals, healing the planet or speaking up and out, Sarah provides parents and their kids, teachers and their students with relatable stories and characters to show the way. And yes she does believe books can save the world. Which is good because so do we. Behind the scenes trivia: Sarah emailed us out of the blue and said, "Hey, I would love to be on your show and here's what I think we can talk good about..." We love proactive people, don't we?
Author Sarah Woodard wants to empower the next generation of young minds. She's had over 40 of her books published--all of them focusing on activism. Whether it's saving animals, healing the planet or speaking up and out, Sarah provides parents and their kids, teachers and their students with relatable stories and characters to show the way. And yes she does believe books can save the world. Which is good because so do we. Behind the scenes trivia: Sarah emailed us out of the blue and said, "Hey, I would love to be on your show and here's what I think we can talk good about..." We love proactive people, don't we?
Chart Harmony's Bonnie Gillespie is all about the 'Woo.' And so we're exploring the good of numerology with an expert - the Astrologer's Daughter. Bonnie finds and charts the 'Woo,' for herself and others, thru the numbers. It's all about math, people. See? You should have paid attention in high school algebra and geometry. I told you. I said it. Did you listen? Did you? Bonnie offers host Steve his own chart reading on his birthday - for real - this was recorded on his actual birthday. And she offers you our listeners all the information you need to calculate your own number and what that number means. Who's ready to reach for the stars and get your chart on?
Lisa Cady and August Paro share a passion: Building and designing Broncos. Literally. From the ground up. Their company Agaso Outdoor isn't just about reinventing old school cars, it's about reimagining your dreams, following your true path, and embracing your passion. For anyone feeling stuck right now - in your personal life or your professional career - this is the episode for you. So buckle up, because we're about to hit the good gas pedal. Vroom vroom.
We celebrate love this Valentine's week with a twist: It's love in the afternoon. Join us as we explore the good of real love versus the fictional love we find five days a week on daytime dramas.
We celebrate love this Valentine's week with a twist: It's love in the afternoon. Join us as we explore the good of real love versus the fictional love we find five days a week on daytime dramas.
George Kenyon shares the good of becoming a foster family, opening his door--and his heart--to two children in need and saying YES--along with his wife--when the universe asks you a question even if you might not be fully ready or think you have the exact and perfect answer. He's also the creator, producer and host of 'George Tells Stories' on YouTube where he does what he does best--share good stories. And on top of all that good stuff, he has one of the best voices ever (next to mine). This episode is also a WORLD GONE GOOD first: It's the full show--unedited--because I loved our conversation so much, I wanted you to hear all of it (and/or I am lazy and didn't feel like editing it). On top of the top of all that in the less than good stuff category, my mic was in a mood (and/or I am that dynamic that I make everything snap, crackle and pop). Welcome to the world of podcasting, where anything can--and will--happen. Enjoy this good ride of an episode in (almost) real time.
Jeannie and Jordyn Jones are a mother/daughter good deed doing duo (try saying that 10 times fast). Jeannie has her own mentoring program and every Christmas, she camps out in her local Starbucks for 24 hours straight to gather toys from the community for foster kids and families in need. Jordyn created her own blessing bags which she donates to people in need and she just finished her first college courses - did we mention she's 13 and still in middle school? We also discuss when (and if) Jeannie ever sleeps and if Steve can be Jordyn when (and if) he ever grows up. The Jones family is the definition of good - prepare to be inspired and uplifted.
Erin Amerman doesn't like cows--she LOVES cows (and pigs and chickens and dogs and cats and...). And she proves it daily at Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary. Their driving mission is to promote compassion for farm animals through rescue and education and to support other farm sanctuaries. They believe strongly that we are all in this together for the animals. Critter Creek homes the largest amount of rescued cows in our nation. This is her good journey and you should listen to it right cow (see what I did there?).
GOOD BONUS: BIRTHDAY ZEN MINUTE: It's Steve's birthday today so he's sharing with you a moment of peace, a moment to breathe, a moment of presence. Close your eyes. Press play. Be in the moment. Be in YOUR moment. This is Steve's birthday reminder to you: You are exactly where you are meant to be right here, right now. Be good.
Erin Amerman doesn't like cows--she LOVES cows (and pigs and chickens and dogs and cats and...). And she proves it daily at Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary. Their driving mission is to promote compassion for farm animals through rescue and education and to support other farm sanctuaries. They believe strongly that we are all in this together for the animals. Critter Creek homes the largest amount of rescued cows in our nation. This is her good journey and you should listen to it right cow (see what I did there?).
Jill Gobora is the founder of Amy's Kisses, an organization whose mission is to provide Kisses of Opportunity in the form of domestic violence educational resources as well as educational scholarships to low-income students throughout the U.S. Their goal is to celebrate the memory of Jill's sister, Amy and her children, Molly and Gregory and reflect her generosity of spirit, her commitment to academic excellence, and her enduring legacy as a mother and tutor. Even in the darkest of situations, there is light, there is good to be found and good to be shared - this is what Jill is doing thru Amy's Kisses. If you are in need of help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Help is out there.
Jill Hotchkiss and Wendy Miller are friends, neighbors, former co-workers, and two women happily living on the purge. They both discovered they shared their love to give away presently unwanted items in their life thru the Buy Nothing Project, a website and app that gives communities the chance to re-home their no longer used stuff and find stuff they may need themselves. Case in point from this here episode: Jill gave away her washing machine while Wendy picked up a Rubik's Cube and the entire Remington Steele collection on DVD. They took things one step further and created a podcast about the Buy Nothing experience which includes a story about a woman who gave her no-longer-needed engagement ring away to a neighbor. This isn't just about clearing out and cleaning up your home, it's about getting to know your neighbors, sharing with others, building community, and keeping our nation's landfills a little less full. And this all happens for absolutely free. How good is that? Enjoy this first episode of the new year with two of my longtime pals.
Jill Hotchkiss and Wendy Miller are friends, neighbors, former co-workers, and two women happily living on the purge. They both discovered they shared their love to give away presently unwanted items in their life thru the Buy Nothing Project, a website and app that gives communities the chance to re-home their no longer used stuff and find stuff they may need themselves. Case in point from this here episode: Jill gave away her washing machine while Wendy picked up a Rubik's Cube and the entire Remington Steele collection on DVD. They took things one step further and created a podcast about the Buy Nothing experience which includes a story about a woman who gave her no-longer-needed engagement ring away to a neighbor. This isn't just about clearing out and cleaning up your home, it's about getting to know your neighbors, sharing with others, building community, and keeping our nation's landfills a little less full. And this all happens for absolutely free. How good is that? Enjoy this first episode of the new year with two of my longtime pals.
KRISTY GONE GOOD: Life coach/Writer Kristy Hinds returns for her second time to our show to share the good of intentions, goals, goal setting, loving yourself, and jumpstarting your new year right. Kristy doesn't believe in 'New Year ReSolutions' - no, no - she prefers 'New Years ReVolutions.' Who's ready to revolutionize your new year? I know I am. We also discuss retreats in Ojai and General Hospital - we are all over the end of 2021 map. Enjoy this spirited, insightful and inspiring conversation. Oh and Happy New Year.
MARK GONE GOOD: Singer/Songwriter Mark Gibson shares the good of his music, faith, and being constantly and consistently creative. The pandemic hit us all pretty hard but for Mark, it fueled his newest album Hymnals from the Plains. He reveals where a song starts and how to just keep going even in the hardest times. If you're like me and music is one of your favorite things, this one's for you.
OPULENT MOBILITY GONE GOOD: Laura Brody is an artist, costumer, and quite possibly, ahead-of-her-time visionary. What does she envision? A world where people with disabilities feel just as beautiful and empowered as everyone else. When she sees a cane, walker or wheelchair, she sees the starting point for her next transformation. Through her incredible project, Opulent Mobility, Laura reimagines the ugly into the glamorous with many of her pieces actual working works of art. Life - and art - is all about perspective and her perspective is equal parts unique and uplifting.
Kristina Wong never thought sewing masks would turn into a published book and an off-Broadway hit show but life doesn't always turn out the way we expect, now does it? From performer to politician to activist, Kristina wears so many hats - or in this case, masks - many of them at the same time, even she can't keep track. When the pandemic hit, she had a calling to DO something, so she found her own light in the darkness, and the Auntie Sewing Squad was born. They delivered thousands upon thousands of masks - and much more including a used ambulance - to people and communities in need. Ever the over-achiever, Kristina didn't stop there: She published the book, THE AUNTIE SEWING SQUAD GUIDE TO MASK MAKING, RADICAL CARE, AND RACIAL JUSTICE, based on her year-long experience. And then she decided to over-over-achieve her over-achievement and KRISTINA WONG, SWEATSHOP OVERLORD opened off-Broadway on November 4th to rave reviews. She's equally inspiring as she is hilarious and apparently never sleeps. Her journey will rally you to create a good squad of your own.
Kristina Wong never thought sewing masks would turn into a published book and an off-Broadway hit show but life doesn't always turn out the way we expect, now does it? From performer to politician to activist, Kristina wears so many hats - or in this case, masks - many of them at the same time, even she can't keep track. When the pandemic hit, she had a calling to DO something, so she found her own light in the darkness, and the Auntie Sewing Squad was born. They delivered thousands upon thousands of masks - and much more including a used ambulance - to people and communities in need. Ever the over-achiever, Kristina didn't stop there: She published the book, THE AUNTIE SEWING SQUAD GUIDE TO MASK MAKING, RADICAL CARE, AND RACIAL JUSTICE, based on her year-long experience. And then she decided to over-over-achieve her over-achievement and KRISTINA WONG, SWEATSHOP OVERLORD opened off-Broadway on November 4th to rave reviews. She's equally inspiring as she is hilarious and apparently never sleeps. Her journey will rally you to create a good squad of your own.
What is your purpose? Project One00 is a volunteer initiative that aims to help others find their bigger purpose, by sharing stories that help us connect with the deeper reasons of why we do what we do, and help us pick a direction towards a more fulfilled life. They believe everyone deserves to feel inspired doing what they do, making a positive impact on the things they really care about, working alongside the people that believe what they believe, and moving the needle towards the world we all want to live in.
It's an international discussion as Project One00 Discovery Partners Jeroen Frumau from the Netherlands, Valentina Coco from Switzerland, & Daniel Herrera from Mexico share their good and help us learn how to find our own personal north star. Learn more at https://www.projectone00.com.
What is your purpose? Project One00 is a volunteer initiative that aims to help others find their bigger purpose, by sharing stories that help us connect with the deeper reasons of why we do what we do, and help us pick a direction towards a more fulfilled life. They believe everyone deserves to feel inspired doing what they do, making a positive impact on the things they really care about, working alongside the people that believe what they believe, and moving the needle towards the world we all want to live in.
It's an international discussion as Project One00 Discovery Partners Jeroen Frumau from the Netherlands, Valentina Coco from Switzerland, & Daniel Herrera from Mexico share their good and help us learn how to find our own personal north star. Learn more at https://www.projectone00.com.
Michelle Yahn is the queen of composting and gardening. Her goal: To heal Mother Earth and to educate people on how we can do that right in our own back - or front - yards. Michelle transformed the alley behind her house from a dumping site to a thriving garden. And she loves mushrooms. And all things mycelium. And ranting about anything. She is one of the most energized and hopeful people you will ever meet and she will inspire you to take good action on behalf of yourself for this planet we call home. Michelle believe there's still time, people. Let's get composting!
Author and podcaster Kate Hanley joins Steve to talk one thing we can do, each and every day, to become a better person. Sometimes it feels like too much, doesn't it? Like there's so many things we WANT to do but so many things getting in our way that we HAVE to do. Kate shows us how to simplify it all, take one step at a time toward not just good but BETTER. And how to we can all brag about giving a shit. Literally. That is something to brag about. Let's brag, people.
Get a sneak peek at Season 2 with Steve and his special guest/BFF since high school, Lisa. You’ll get to hear clips from brand new, upcoming good shows with Kate Hanley from How To Be A Better Person, Michelle Yahn the composting queen, the international team from Project One00, and Steve’s longtime friend, Crystal Carson on how she finds the good every day while living and fighting cancer. Plus we have a special announcement: Our new website is up. Come one, come all, we have a whole new season of GOOD coming your way!
Simone Gordon is a leader at helping people. As a single mother raising an autistic son and going to college, she received help from someone so she decided to pay it forward and the Black Fairy Godmother was born. This is her inspiring story of how to keep life simple, invest and uplift others, and treat everyone you meet with kindness. Simone's been featured on CNN and ABC News, as well as in the pages of People Magazine. She is the definition of what this podcast is all about.
Visit https://www.theblackfairygodmother.org to grab your own wand and help others.
Simone Gordon is a leader at helping people. As a single mother raising an autistic son and going to college, she received help from someone so she decided to pay it forward and the Black Fairy Godmother was born. This is her inspiring story of how to keep life simple, invest and uplift others, and treat everyone you meet with kindness. Simone's been featured on CNN and ABC News, as well as in the pages of People Magazine. She is the definition of what this podcast is all about.
Visit https://www.theblackfairygodmother.org to grab your own wand and help others.
Denise Montrose met a cow that changed her life and together, they launched Samma Farm Tennessee Cow Rescue. Sounds simple, right? But wait, there's more: Elizabeth the cow is partially blind, it's in the middle of where cows are raised for slaughter, and Denise never ran a rescue or owned a cow before. This is one woman's journey into the unknown where she follows her heart and is learning something new every single day. If you need a sign, this is the cow story for you.
You can visit Samma Farm here: https://tennesseecowrescue.org/samma-farm
Juliette Jeffers' good is story telling. She is an accomplished actress, landing roles on everything from Grey's Anatomy to ER to The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, and writer who has taken her love of theatre to the next level through her own multiple one person shows, which has included an off-Broadway run. Most recently, Juliette has helped others share their own stories thru Black Voices, a live, multi-week theatre experience that was broadcast via the web. We talk about the good of tapping into our own inner voice, embracing our own creativity, and sharing our own stories with the world. We also talk about superheroes. We talk A LOT about superheroes. Shrug emoji. Super shrug emoji.
Johnny Brookbank ran for his city council and - SPOILER ALERT - he won. Look, we've all been dealing with a lotta politics lately, haven't we? We talk about that and we talk about change: When we WANT IT, we have to be willing to MAKE IT. Johnny did - and DOES - just that. He is also the co-founder, along with his wife, of The Balcony of LA, a community-improvement philanthropy. On top of all this good stuff, Johnny is a stage 4 cancer survivor and wrote a book about it entitled 'Cancer? But I'm a Virgo: *This is not a book about astrology. This is a book about Cancer.' Yes, that is the complete title. You are welcome. Join us for a spirited good talk with a good guy who has a lot of more good to do with his life.
Celebrity Chef & Author Alejandra Schrader shares how we can save the planet one plant-based recipe at a time. She speaks of her early upbringing in Venezuela, how she jumped careers from being a sustainable architect to a Master Chef (literally - she was on two different seasons of the show), and her new book she's penned THE LOW-CARBON COOKBOOK where she shares ways to reduce food waste and combat climate change (along with 140 incredibly tasty sustainable plant-based recipes). We can all do good and we can all start doing good right from our own kitchens.
Listen in to hear how you can win a FREE COPY of her book.
Debbie Praver is a stand-up comedian who also just happens to be a physical fitness instructor. Moral of the last sentence: If you're gonna work out, you might as well laugh about it. She's toured the country doing her comedy, honed her writing skills with Marc Cherry and the team behind 'Desperate Housewives,' been up, been down, and kept going. We get our good on talking about drive, the free (yep, FREE) barre classes she teaches four times a week, and the time she was in the Disneyland Electric Light Parade and accidentally caught on fire (yep, she kept going). This is a fun - and FUNNY - one. It's good to laugh.
Singer/Songwriter Drew Stevyns is the good definition of 'independent artist.' Like any musician, he's had his ups - see making it all the way to the Top Ten on 'America's Got Talent' and performing with the likes of Thelma Houston and the Charlie Daniels Band - and his downs - see the in-between and quieter times. What's his good secret?, you ask. He views life as an opportunity and that's why he says YES to (almost) everything that comes his way. We talk the good of music, creativity, and going with the flow even when the flow can overflow. This is his good story.
Visit drewstevyns.com to download his music.
Isabelle Gullo cofounded C.A.R.E.4Paws in 2009. She was a longtime shelter volunteer who recognized the desperate need for programs that reduce pet overpopulation and intervene before animals suffer and/or end up homeless. Isabelle, a Swedish native and journalist by trade, is proud of the rapid progress C.A.R.E.4Paws has made in the last 12 years and feels grateful to work in a field she’s so passionate about. During the COVID-19 pandemic, C.A.R.E.4Paws has stayed true to their mission to prevent pet homelessness and suffering. They distribute four tons of pet food weekly to pet owners countywide and continue to provide a record-number of spays/neuters and medical services. And who would have ever thought a crush on Don Johnson put this all into motion?
Visit https://www.care4paws.org to learn more about this oh so good organization.
What are five things your love about yourself? Can you name five things? Can you name three? One? My guest Tatia Bradley from the Daily Dose of Love podcast turns the conversation on me and asks me to name them. See how I did. Then it's your turn: Grab a piece of paper, open your laptop, your phone, whatever and self-love away. This 5 minute exercise may make your day and change your perspective on a very important person in your life: YOU.
Tatia Bradley is all about three good things: Self-love, self-care and self-healing. All three are interconnected and essential to our overall well-being and mental health. Tatia's journey has not been easy. She's experienced tragic loss and she still looks in the mirror each day and says, "I love that person looking back at me" (I'm loosely quoting, I'm not sure those are her exact words but you get me). Join us as things get personal and real and emotional and laugh-out-loud funny - isn't that what self-love, self-care, and self-healing is all about? Tatia hosts the Daily Dose of Love podcast.
Listen to the Daily Dose of Love podcast wherever you pod best.
HGTV design star Mary Welch Fox Stasik has had quite a good journey: From traveling the world with rockstars to being a rockstar mom herself, reimagining interior design to full-on reimagined remodels, she's made a life out of her passion for art and expression, all by following her heart. In her new series 'Breaking Bland,' she helps people tap into the good of themselves and unleash their personality into their design and decor. This is a woman who believes in 1,000% - she says so a few times in our good conversation - and when you listen you'll believe 1,000% as well. Join us as we dive into her new show and explore how we too can break our own bland.
Don't miss 'Breaking Bland' Wednesdays on HGTV beginning August 4th.
Tik Tok star Aaron Murphy travels South America doing good. This guy brings entire communities together to help people in need. He facilitates the building of houses, feeds homeless animals, and even helped an entire village get medical treatment all for free and thru donations from his followers. It all started as an adventure to find himself and turned into his personal calling to help others anyway he can. Celebrate our 50th episode with us as we highlight someone who is doing good all over the world.
Info and how you can support: murphslifefoundation.com
Caroline Simpson went vegan overnight and never looked back. Her goal is to enlighten others, save the animals, heal the planet, live a healthy life, and spread this entire message thru her social media. And she's my second ever international guest all the way from Australia by way of Ireland and Scotland. Go green with us and enjoy our wild and crazy accents in this brand new episode.
Mari Weiss is talkin' about sex, ba-by. Well, actually, she's a volunteer sex education teacher. You say potato, we say wear a condom. We're talking the good of teaching, specifically gender, anatomy, reproduction, and how someone who grew up Catholic in the '70s (her, not me) finds the connection with a post-millenial born audience. Fear not, this episode is still rated PG-13. We do giggle a lot, mostly at our collectively embarrassing pasts. Who's ready to get good and barely even dirty with us?
Greg Peterson owns and runs the Urban Farm in Phoenix, Arizona, where he is literally living off the land - his land. He's an educator whose goal is to inspire and he's here to share the good of water conservation, planting trees, starting your own farm even if you live in an apartment with no yard, and so much more. And when he's not getting his hoe on (see what I did there?) you can find him producing and hosting his wildly popular podcast, The Urban Farm Podcast.
Melissa Peterman's resume spans Fargo to Reba, Baby Daddy to Young Sheldon, Worst Cooks in America to the Sound of Music Sing-A-Long - and it all started for her on stage, performing live in Tony N' Tina's Wedding. Her roots have always been planted in the theater (or theatre if you're fancy). Now she's a board member for the Unusual Suspects Theatre Company in Los Angeles, where for over 26 years they've provided a safe space for thousands of underserved and at-risk kids to find their own voice, their own home on the stage and behind the curtain. Melissa shares the good of theater, working with younger voices, how they inspire her and how it all comes together as a great unifier. I also guilt her into promising to introduce me to my life-long crush, Valerie Bertinelli.
June is the Unusual Suspect's Virtual Create-A-Thon. Visit their website to find out how you can get creative and support them:
www.theunusualsuspects.org
You can also donate direct to Melissa's fundraising page for Unusual Suspects here:
https://create.theunusualsuspects.org/fundraiser/3266975
Cinema Craptaculus podcasters Stephanie Coggins, John Ford, and Dave Humphreys explore the good of potentially bad movies monthly through the multiple podcasts that fall under their banner. From Sharknado(s) to any film starring Nicholas Cage, this team dives in with their hyper-focused - and often hilarious - Craptaculus lens to take a closer look and revel in these cinematic spectacles. Question: What's your good guilty pleasure movie? You can tell us. We won't laugh at you (OK, we'll laugh at you just a bit and you're welcome to laugh back at us in return).
Check out Cinema Craptaculus wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Kathy & John Halamka provide a safe haven to animals in need. And by animals in need, we are talking cows, horses, ducks, chickens, alpacas and much, much more. Kathy shares their good story from runaway cows to just how much hay per month - by the ton - yes, ton - they go through. Unity Farm Sanctuary is proof that no dream is out of reach, you just have to go for it (and figure out what to do with all the manure).
Life Elements' Martha and Curt Van Inwegen are partners in life and in business and they couldn't be happier in both (I mean sure we can all be happier, right? But these two are pretty dang happy). Martha grew up in Mexico and moved to the US at a young age, while Curt moved twenty plus times as his father was in the military. Their paths crossed thru business but it was when they both moved on and followed their heart's desire that they finally came together. They are the owners and creative forces behind Life Elements, the CBD bath and body skincare company. We talk the good of everything from following your gut to trusting you heart, how to be couple and run a business together, and most importantly the why behind CBD that makes it so good.
Jon Lawrence Rivera's inspiring story will put a smile on your face and also make you reevaluate your own life decisions in the best way possible. He started his career in banking, moved his way up, but found no passion for it. His passion was in the theatre as a director and so he took a leap and went for it full time - and his life changed forever and for the way better. And then the pandemic hit and like a lot of us, he asked himself, "Now what?" The answer was centered in his own upbringing, his family roots, specifically his family recipes. That's when he opened Flip Kitchen and began feeding his community from his own home...wait for it...FOR FREE. And if that's not enough to uplift and inspire you, there's a twist you will not see coming and it all ties back to our previous episode with Betsy Zajko. Three words: Up. With. People. You can thank me now - I promise you will howl laughing and see it as further proof the world is good as well as way smaller than any of us ever think.
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this second brand new episode for May.
Betsy Zajko is an empath, a world traveler, an actor, a story teller, a voice over artist, and oh yeah, she also builds, climbs inside, and brings giant puppets to life on her weekends. She started her life practically as many of us do and then discovered the real fun is when we listen to our inner voice, trust the calling, and just go for it. We first crossed paths at Rant & Rave, the monthly story telling show at Rogue Machine Theatre in Los Angeles. We've since become each other's biggest fans. I'm happy to share another one of my inspiring and uplifting (and so good) friends with you. Oh and three word spoiler alert: Up. With. People.
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this first of two new episodes.
We As Citizens creator/host Kristina Crowley shares her inspiring journey. After surviving a bad accident, she found her good in podcasting. It started as a tool to relearn the simple act of communication and turned into four podcasts including We As Citizens where she explores our preconceived notions and ideas in hopes of broadening our minds, way of thinking, and opening our hearts in the process. Kristina reminds us all it's never too late to follow your passion - what are you waiting for?
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this second brand new episode for May.
Actor/Author Quinn Fontaine shares the good of his story and what a good story it is: He's a transgendered, recovering addict who literally turned his life around through his art. His art includes acting and performing where he now runs his own studio teaching the good of improvisation. His art also includes a #1 Best Seller all about his before and after and everything in between and since. Quinn is the definition of bright light and proof it's never too late to find your true self.
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this first of two new episodes.
News reporter Victoria Gathier shares her voice in every way possible: From Emmy-winning anchor to world traveler, she is always on the go and ready to report on her latest adventure. As she is one of my longtime friends, there is nothing we can't talk about, no topic is off limits. So get ready for us to discuss role models, representation, equality, and so much more that's good but sometimes difficult to talk about in this world of ours. And FYI - we have an angel and/or ghost who was watching over our recording session - you decide...
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this second brand new episode for May.
Balloon Artist/Author Steven Mayhew shares the good of following your passion no matter where it takes you. From humble beginnings playing Batman at kids parties to creating 14 foot tall giraffe replicas to writing and publishing his own children's book, this guy knows how to say a big and bold YES. But he's not all good: There was that year he slashed up a few people in the fictional town of Salem on DAYS OF OUR LIVES (oh yeah, we leave no stone - real or balloon-made - unturned in this conversation).
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this first of two new episodes.
Chie Davis shares her journey from world traveler/marketing exec/journalist to mom/blogger of Mommafied. From mindfulness to meditation, Chie identifies as a full person as well as a mom. Plus we learn what pod school is and she gives us her top tips and advice for the best Mother's Day gifts - a few of them are absolutely free.
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this second brand new episode for May.
Stacie Burrows & Shannon Noel are Mommy Tonk, two moms, one stage, anything can happen. These singer/songwriter/comedian/actress/moms met quite by accident and teamed up to harmonize their way through motherhood. We talk the good of following your gut, saying yes even when you only have twenty minutes of material prepared when they want you to have an hour, and how to be a mom and stay a human being at the same time. Happy Mother's Day to all! (No mothers were harmed in the making of this episode. Just a few puppies and a super cute baby goat. I'm kidding. About the baby goat, it was just regular cute. Joking. Sheesh.)
FYI - this is A-May-Zing May and we're doubling episodes every Wednesday for the month! Enjoy this first of two new episodes.
Beekeeper Andrew Morrison shares the good buzz from the ins and out of hive hierarchy to what causes colony collapse to who makes the best honey and everything in bee-tween. Ready to learn all about our important little friends? We literally can't live without them. Warning: This episode's chock full of good - and bad - puns, honey. (See what I did there?)
Actress Dale Raoul talks about Sanatione, the world-wide filmmaking project she creates content for. This incredible documentary is a work in progress, featuring stories from around the globe of regular, everyday people surviving, thriving, and finding the good during this very difficult time. She's also here to talk about ALF and why Angela Landsbury never wore shoes on Murder, She Wrote (and that's more than good as far as I'm concerned).
Our guests weigh in on their favorites of all time. Maybe it's one of your faves. Enjoy this extra bonus content straight from the cutting room floor. (There's not an actual floor. It's a laptop. The cutting room laptop. That sounds weird. Why are you still reading this?)
Curtain up: Join Eric B. Anthony, Ava Bergman, Julien Nitzberg, Eddie Shapiro, & Wendy Worthington as they talk the good of musical theatre. From touring with Wicked to launching the brand new musical For the Love of a Glove, from the unforgettable dames to the wonderful guys, this is the super-sized episode you've been waiting for. Grab your seat, front and center, cause the lights are beginning to dim and the show's about to start... (This podcast will be performed without an intermission. You're welcome.)
Steve's Mom accepts the challenge and reveals her mandel bread recipe for all the world to enjoy. Grab a pen, write down the ingredients and instructions, bake this good stuff up and become the talk of your town and/or watch your own waist line vanish - the choice is yours - we don't judge (we do, just a little).
What happens when a bake-off turns into something bigger than you ever expected? Scott McKenzie and Jeremy Uhrich are two dads both with a little bit of a competitive side. How little bit is their competitive side?, you wonder. Well, what started as a friendly cookie dare turned into the nationwide - and Canada, too - phenomenon, Cookies for Caregivers. Scott and Jeremy join us to share their recipe for giving back to their community, with an assist from Cheryl Venable, who runs the Los Angeles area chapter of this amazing organization. So preheat your ovens cause the good is about to rise.
Actress/Author Brianne Davis produces and hosts Secret Life podcast where secrets are set free for the world to hear. So ask yourself: What's good about telling your secret? Let's find out together from an expert. And yes, even I have a secret or two. And I reveal one of mine in this episode. Hmmmm. Things just got a little more interesting, didn't they?
Live Better's Jason Loebig spends his days - and some nights too we imagine - inspiring, uplifting, and leading others to the next level of well being. So what happened when he himself got knocked down - literally knocked down by a wave while surfing and injured to the point he couldn't walk? He faced it head on. This is his story of finding his good and in the world we have all been living in and through in the past year plus, it's all our stories. When life delivers you the unexpected, how do you move forward mentally, physically, and spiritually? Let's explore how to live better.
Singer/Songwriter Mae Edwards created I.M.L.A., a musical graphic novel, that's bringing positive self-expression, energy and vibes to LGBQTIA youth (and everyone and anyone else). This episode explores the good of being creative and putting 'your thing' out there. All the music and clips in this episode are written, composed, and performed by Mae and the amazing team behind I.M.L.A. Watch the full graphic novel on YouTube and download all tracks on iTunes.
Host Steve Silverman reflects back on the good of a year in lockdown. Good of a year in lockdown? Is that even possible?? It is. Just listen. And then ask yourself what's good in your world, one year later?
Actress Kathleen O'Grady donated her kidney to her brother in need. She shares with us the journey, the sacrifice, and the support of this life-changing good deed. Please visit organdonor.gov to learn more and register yourself. You could change someone else's life for the better.
The Great Do Over's Deb Boulanger is a coach, speaker and retreat leader. She created the Great Do Over and Launch Lab to help women launch their own businesses. We talk the good of going out there on our own, struggling, challenging and succeeding as we do. If you’re ready to take the leap into entreprenuership, this is the woman to talk to and leap with. Are you ready? One, two, three...LEAP!
Buckle up: Best friends Tanya Perez and Ryan Basham share the GOOD of hitting the road together. Now when I first saw their posts and pics on their social media accounts I thought, "Oh wow, this would make a such a good episode for my podcast!" I mean - come on - two best pals on a super fun road trip during a pandemic - that screams GOOD times, right?? What I didn't know was the WHY - WHY they were taking this road trip? And that's the most important part. This one's a refresher in friendship, destiny, and simply saying yes. Oh and also making sure you get a rental car that doesn't smell like an ashtray - give a listen, you'll understand.
Meet the Green Domestic Fairy, Kesia Hosking - she's here to speak to the good in a clean and organized life. And if that's not enough to get you good and excited, get this: It's our first international episode. That's right, we're hopping across the pond (well at least I am as I live in California) to speak with Kesia in jolly ol' England. Let's clear our paths to make room for the good that's coming our way. (Be sure you make your bed before listening to this episode.)
'Charlie's Angels' expert Mike Pingel shares the good in being both a fan and a collector. He has his own "Once upon a time..." story that started with his childhood love of the hit television series and led him all the way to Hollywood where he met and formed relationships with the cast members themselves. Mike's collection of 'Angels' memorabilia is legendary - he has it all - well, almost all of it - he's still looking for a few items as he himself shares with us. So what's good about being a collector? Mike's here to tell us - and as a fellow child of the 70s - this was a real fun one for me.
Ellie Laks' journey started with one small goat and turned itself into an animal sanctuary that's enlightened the entire world, the Gentle Barn. This is the inspiring story of following your dreams, listening to your soul, and letting your heart be your guide. It delivers proof that each and every one of us has the good in us to make anything - truly anything - happen. Plus her husband gave her a surprise wedding - this part alone you are gonna wanna hear - trust us.
VPR's Kristen Peralta shares the good in caring for senior and hospice dogs. There's a lot of good that goes into taking care of over thirty dogs - there's also a lot of food, toys and poop bags. If you love animals the way I do, you're gonna love this show. Now sit...siiitttttt...good listener, good, good GOOD listener...and enjoy...
Yoga master Jake Ferree shares the good of getting in touch with yourself, slowing down, breathing, being mindful and present. In our world gone a little cray-cray, who doesn't need more or all of that good stuff? Our good chat also includes hiking adventures and Matthew McConaughey - what good chat DOESN'T include Matthew McConaughey?? Grab your yoga mat and let's get bendy...
You wanna build a wall? Build a Wall Of Hope. That's exactly what Kim LaMontagne, Pam MacDougall and Scott MacDougall did. Together, these three celebrate the best in the human spirit, uplifting those around them with stories of hope at a time when we all need it most, accomplishing it all through social media on this newfangled interwebs I'm sure you've been hearing about. Are you ready to keep hope alive?
Got 3 minutes to become happy? Host Steve Silverman shares how to make happiness your intention all year long and he delivers the goods (see what we did there?) in exactly 3 minutes. Yes, we're serious.
Comedian/Actress Cathy Ladman shares the good of a good joke, a good laugh, and smiling when times are tough. You may know Cathy from CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, MAD MEN, PRETTY LITTLE LIARS or her iconic ‘Lady in the Elevator’ role on CAROLINE IN THE CITY. She’s also performed on THE TONITE SHOW stage and been […]
Trainer, dietician, and soul caretaker Ingrid Clay shares her good. If you're looking to stay on track with your new year's resolution(s), this is the pod for you. We're talking positive thinking, healthy attitude, and working out your mind, body and soul. And we're talking with someone who definitely has the goods. (Also she is a kickass bootcamp instructor and she secretly covets my 'SQUAT GOALS' tee I used to wear to her classes).
Actor/Storyteller Mari Weiss shares her family Christmas. So grab your egg nog, sit back and enjoy - it's our bonus holiday gift gone good just for you.
OFP's founder and army veteran Mary Cortani shares her journey pairing U.S. veterans and children with service dogs, helping them with both physical and emotional challenges. It all started with one person reaching out to Mary and she simply saying, 'Yes.' If you're looking for holiday inspiration that will put a jingle in your step, you've come to the right place.
It's good story time with merry guests Crystal Carson, Jillian Clare, Laura Grablutz, Dave Humphreys, and Faith Salie. We're talking everything from the Christmas Barbie to the Star Wars At-At, from Secret Santas to secret tattoos, no mistletoe or latke will be left unturned in our pursuit of finding the good in this holiday season. This is the most guests I've ever had on one show, I hope I have enough cocoa and wine (not mixed together, just wanna offer options, ya know?).
From the cutting room floor: Author Eric Poole talks childhood inspiration, trumpet playing, and the lessons learned trying to make his way up the Hollywood ladder (and/or as near or close to the Hollywood ladder as he could get).
Authors Courtney Cevis & Eric Poole talk the good of 'writing it down.' Courtney's a self-published author of 11 books and Eric's a published author of 2. We talk inspiration, feedback, and the joy of being extroverted introverts at this time in our history. Curl up with this good podcast and enjoy!
Sex-pert Wendy Miller from Sex Ed The Musical podcast talks the good of sex. Spoiler Alert: It’s all about communicating. What?? Who knew?? Wendy did. Does. Wendy knows. And she’s here to give some honest talk on a subject that’s a favorite to many of us and a bit scary to others. Listener Warning: Adult […]
Janice Browne's story of unexpected loss will move and inspire you. If you've ever questioned the existence of angels, you will question no more after listening to her. Good can come out of very bad and difficult situations. (Episode part 2 of 2 parts).
Life Coach Kristy Hinds helps us navigate toward the good. We're talking everything from what a life coach is to the benefits of having one to adding value on a daily basis including on social media to Ladies Who Launch. We're also talking people who stand in supermarkets during a pandemic screaming into their phones there is no food on the shelves when there is plenty of food on the shelves. It's all perspective, people. And that's where we find the good.
From the cutting room floor: Denise Alexander & Ray Proscia bonus material includes conversation on how we originally each met and our favorite memories of one another. Denise's involves a chicken Caesar salad and Ray's has a really tall ladder. Neither of them seem to remember how they met me however. That's friendship for ya.
Craft queen Margot Potter talks good creative, the arts, and how to rise like a Phoenix, which she's had to do herself a few times over. From Mornings with Madge to The Lady Party to being a self-proclaimed 'impatient crafter' to authoring two books, Margot's got the goods to share on creativity. You'll be inspired to get crafty yourself, I promise. (No glue guns or glitter were used in the production of this podcast...well...at least not by me).
Composer/singer/songwriter Mary Edwards was the victim of a racist's attack. How do you find the good when something this bad happens to you? It's a difficult conversation to have, which is exactly why we're having it.
CONTENT WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS LANGUAGE THAT MAY BE UPSETTING TO SOME LISTENERS.
Philip Anthony Mangan made an inspiring life change: He became a farmer and moved to Hawaii to transform 13 acres of land into a working farm. For those of us thinking 'It's too late to go down another path,' this man proves it's never too late, it's actually never too soon, to find the good in being present and being yourself.
Angela Adan is dog's best friend, that's her good. She's a dog healer, vegan, wheelie dog advocate. Trained by Cesar Millan, she loves and lives to help animals in need. Leash up to hear her dog tales (see what I did there?) in this inspiring episode.
Three Halloween addicts talk good spooky talk: Barry Jay is a horror movie fanatic and the writer/director/producer of the features, "Ashes" and "Killer Therapy;" Marlene Thompson and her husband begin their annual tradition of transforming their front yard into a Halloween spectacle; and Dudley Beene is the wig, makeup, and outfit extraordinaire who is known in West Hollywood for his yearly group-themed costumes. What's good about being scared? Grab your candy and let’s find out.
Writer/director Barry Jay joins Steve to discuss their Top 3 favorite scary movies of all time in this bonus content. Barry's films include "Ashes" and "Killer Therapy." He is a self-professed horror fanatic. Steve likes horror too but not the way Barry does. Barry clearly has a problem and needs help. Steve is fine. There is nothing wrong with Steve. Wait. What have you heard? Never mind, go enjoy this good bit of Halloween extra. (Seriously, what have you heard?).
PaSean Wilson-Ashley tells her journey from Broadway to vegan baker to owner of MamaAunties Vegan Goodies. If you need some inspiration and love dessert, this is the good for you. Seriously, how good are her vegan cakes and ice cream? I had her send me a cake a few months back thru the mail. She's that good. And so is her story. (No desserts were harmed in the making of this podcast).
Live Better's Bret Gornik talks how goal planning and taking chances on yourself makes you live better and live good. Bret is a personal trainer and kicks bootcamp butt on the regular with Barry's - Chicago. He's married to his college sweetheart and together they believe their dog is cuter than your dog (Note: Their dog is pretty stinkin' cute - I have seen how cute this dog is - so you better step it up before you challenge them on this).
CBS Sunday Morning's Faith Salie joins me to talk the good in protesting. For her family, protesting has gone to a whole new level and it all started when she dared to have a lock installed on her bedroom door. Warning: Do not ever cross an 8 year old and a 6 year old. Faith Salie is the author of 'Approval Junkie,' which she's also taken to the stage as her own one woman show, and she can also be heard on NPR on Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me. On a sidenote, she makes a chocolate Coca-Cola cake that is mind-blowing. Ask her for the recipe.
Prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and yeah, laugh a whole lot, as host Steve Silverman talks the good stuff with a variety of guests. Each show focuses on something good in the world. And don't we all need a little more of that right now?