#365Firsts Podcast: Stories of First Times

Joining me in this episode to dig deeper into the benefits of first times and new experiences on learning and memory is James M. Hyman, PhD, an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at UNLV. "Being in new situations helps us be in new situations" Dr. Hyman explains how non-specific learning through exposing ourselves to novelty benefits us because we are constantly updating what we know about the world for future use, and learning to regulate our emotional states.  

In this episode, I share with you the key highlights of how I've tremendously changed and benefited from my journey of first times and new experiences. The reason I do what I do is because of how impactful and powerful it's been in my own life and this is an attempt to help you understand that.

In this episode of the First Time Story series, my guest was Robert A. Belle and he shared the inspirational story of how he got this first car. His story truly is an incredible one and it involves believing in his worth and asking for what he desired.   Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round and learned that Robert loves food and is open-minded to trying new cuisines.   Robert is a transformational speaker, author and ACCA Accountant. He's on a global mission to help individuals who feel inferior and have given up on their dreams to think freely, create unapologetically and live abundantly.    

In this episode, I explained what the five types of first times are and which ones you should add to your #365FirstsChallenge list as part of the journey of first times and new experiences. The five types are: spontaneous/random/opportunistic firsts, planned firsts, earned firsts, unexpected firsts, and next level firsts. Please support the crowdfunding campaign with whatever amount you can: https://ifundwomen.com/projects/365firstschallenge-movement

In this episode of the First Time Story series, my guest was Jake Gallen, the host of the popular Las Vegas podcast & talk show, The Guest List, and he shared the story of going to his first electronic music festival. Going to EDC for the first time is one of three life changing events to take place in his life. Jake explains why this first time was so impactful and why everyone should go at least once in their lives. Next, we played the first time lightning round and discovered an interesting place where Jake went skinny dipping.  

Joining me in this episode is Mary Rensel, MD, the owner of Brain Fresh, and Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine to dig deeper into the benefits of first times and new experiences on the health of our brains.

In this episode of the First Time Story series, my guest was Ed Sullivan. Ed shared the story of his first time "making the leap" from a comfortable life at a "real job" into the entrepreneurial fray selling the first laser for lasik eye surgery he engineered. Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round™ and learned that Ed has been playing the drums since he was 3 years old. Ed Sullivan is serial entrepreneur who has built several successful companies each over $30M in revenue. Most recently he founded Trust Exchange and Aria Systems. He started a newsletter and online community for like-minded entrepreneurs: edsull.substack.com

Joining me in this episode is Paula ‘Must Try Harder’ McGuire to dig deeper into the benefits of first times and new experiences to overcome anxiety. Her story is insanely inspirational! Paula is an adventurer, author, motivational speaker and life coach – but above all, she’s a trier. After 30 years of surviving with chronic social anxiety and depression, Paula started to really live with it in 2012, using adventure as her means to recovery. She has since been a wing-walker, an athlete, a pilot, and even a trainee astronaut, and spends what spare time she has encouraging others to turn barriers into climbing frames.  

In this episode of the First Time Story series, my guest was Ronit Plank. Ronit shared the story of the first time she ever went to a giant community coven Wiccan gathering at a Unitarian Church when she was in college. Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round™ and learned that Ronit loves getting hot stone massages and if someone can teach her how to safely do a handstand, she'll give it a go!! Ronit is a freelance writer, host, and producer of the podcast And Then Everything Changed, and author of the new memoir When She Comes Back. When She Comes Back is a story about Ronit’s mother leaving her, twice, in order to follow a group during her childhood, which led to Ronit growing up without her mother but later reconciling.

Joining me in this episode is Marta Brzosko, the founder of the Self-Awareness Blog to dig deeper into the importance and value of self-awareness and to discuss how to go about developing our self-awareness. We started things out by defining "what is self-awareness?" Which led to highlighting the dangers and issues with pursuing self-development and self-improvement without having proper self-awareness. Next, we explored how to raise self-awareness through feeling our emotions and getting out of our heads. What about mindfulness? What is the role of mindfulness in self-awareness? This led to having a conversation about how first times and new experiences are key to helping us be more mindful as well as making us more self-aware. We then discussed the balance between pursuing novelty (first times and new experiences) and the need for a pause/downtime for assessment and full integration of what we have learned and how we've changed. Marta Brzosko is a writer and founder of the Self-Awareness Blog. She advocates for developing self-awareness and mindfulness before "improving" ourselves. She escapes her own tendencies to overthink by running in Nature, drawing, and doing things for the first time.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series, my guest was Bullseye the Clown. Bullseye shared the story of his very first time clowning...on a clown tour in Russia with Patch Adams and how that one experience changed the course of his life forever. Bullseye the Clown is an award-winning humanitarian clown who specializes in Anti-bullying, fighting injustice and curing invisibility! Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round and learned that Bullseye is a big Wonder Woman fan! This is a wonderful interview/story of the magic of life and how doing something for the first time can lead to an entirely new path of your life.

Joining me in this episode is Ryan Rydzewski, the co-author of When You Wonder, You're Learning: Mister Rogers' Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids. He’s here to dig deeper and teach us more about two benefits of first times and new experiences: Curiosity and Creativity. Ryan starts out by sharing with us what inspired him and his co-author Gregg Behr to write the book. Then we dig deeper into the world of Mister Rogers. One of the first takeaways on curiosity that might surprise people is that Mr. Roger’s didn’t expect children to be curious about something they knew nothing about. Ryan explains why there needs to be some familiarity first and what else is required to plant the seed of curiosity. Familiarity and mystery are required to ignite curiosity but that’s not all. Mr. Roger’s knew what was required so he took deliberate efforts to create a safe environment for children to escape to. Ryan shares with us how he did that. We also talk about the “Bouncing Raisins” experiment and the 1968 study by Dr. George Land. Creativity can’t be imposed but it can be encouraged. Scientists have found that imaginative kids are more likely to have imaginative parents – people who consider themselves adventurous and open-minded. We discussed throughout the interview how what Mister Rogers taught (can still teach us) is far from being only for children. When You Wonder, You're Learning is an excellent book to read and learn from whether or not you're a parent or educator.

Today on the First Time Story Series my guest was Mike Oulton. Mike shared the story of the first time he used mushrooms as a way to heal himself. This is not an episode aimed at promoting drug use. It's about exploring options and being open minded about the experiences that others have had and choose to share. Mike is a fascinating guy! His stories definitely taught me a thing or two and made me laugh. So far, out of all my guests, he owns the title of "Most Epic First Time Lightning Round!" Mike is the host of Prison Rules, a Renaissance man who spent 15 yrs in and out of prison where he eventually learned how to heal others.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was David Dennis. David shared the story of starting his first successful business. This is another great story of how interests, passions, and first times can grow into something meaningful and impactful! Davis is the co-founder of Ventana Surfboards & Supplies, the most environmentally responsible surf company in the world. He is also a 20 year veteran of Microsoft where he has worked in various product and program management roles around the world.

Welcome 100TH #365FIRSTS PODCAST EPISODE!! In this episode, I reminisce about what the journey of the First 100 Episodes has been like...it didn't turn out to be what I had originally planned.  However, recording the 100th episode has been a fabulous reminder of how it helped me meet incredible people, gain a lot of knowledge, and improved my storytelling, communication, interviewing, and active listening skills. It's also led me to starting an entirely new branch of my business.  

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Tisha Michelle. Tisha shared the story of the first time she discovered her spirituality and connected with her purpose through the loss of her best friend Gloria. Tisha is a spiritual guide and teacher, hypnotist, podcast host and HAG TV. She is on a mission to connect and guide people to their authentic self. This is a powerful story of Tisha's awakening and growth to the beauty and magic of what life has to offer. Have a listen with an open heart and mind!

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Rohit Bhargava. Rohit shared with us the story of the first time he was retrenched in his younger days while working in Australia. In American English – that means fired. It's a great story on the adventures that are part of shaping who we become. Rohit is an innovation and marketing expert and the founder of the Non-Obvious Company. He’s the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of six business books and also teaches marketing and innovation at Georgetown University.

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I share the story of investing in my first mutual fund. The significance of this story is that I introduce you to the first person (outside of my family) who took a chance on me and how I'll never forget that. I do get off track a bit and talk about how valuable it is to believe in others.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Eric Wilson and he shared the story of how he became a weatherman for the first time. It was definitely not through the normal process. This is a great story of finding yourself in the deep end of the pool with no clue how to swim but giving it all you've got to stay above water. Eric is the CEO of multiple companies, an Air Force Veteran who fought in Desert Storm and a meteorologist who was on the air for 18 years.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Aubrey Wallace. She shared the story of her first time going through a quarter life crisis and how it brought her to spend a summer in the woods and how that redefined her self-identity. I truly feel like I found a kindred spirit in Aubrey in the way she is journeying through life, exploring and growing who she is, and constantly seeking meaning in life. I hope her story/this interview ignites the desire to go looking into who you are and peel the layers. Aubrey is a US expat living in the Netherlands and the Co-founder of Dandelion Branding. She is also a certified clinical herbalist with an understanding of herbs, nature, and several healing modalities.

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I tell you the story that lead to my first leadership lesson and what I learned from it. If you haven't done so, I recommend first listening to the First Time as a Platoon Commander episode.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Judith Vergara. Judith shared the story of the first time she went to a gay bar and how this unlocked a chain of events that led to the discovery of her strength through vulnerability and self-expression. Judith is an affiliate marketer, Podcaster, and nosy AF human. She’s passionate about learning people's stories - what makes, them happy, sad, what their desires are. This is a raw, emotional, and powerful story/interview that exemplifies how our lives can change and what it takes.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Stu Swineford. He shared the story of his first attempt with running 100 miles at one time in the Leadville 100. This is an inspirational story about learning to push yourself past your limits and has many lessons on how to tackle the biggest of goals. Stu is a digital marketing guy, the co-founder of Relish Studio. He is a vegan, distance runner, outdoor enthusiast, environmentalist and doer of stuff.

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I share the story of my first stay in an AirBnB. While I created my AirBnB account in May, 2012, it wasn't until December, 2015, that I booked my first room in someone's home for $27 a night. The whole thing is definitely awkward at first...

In this episode of the First Time Story Series I was joined by Allison Jackson. She shared the story of the first time she competed in a figure competition. She covered her entire journey from deciding to compete to stepping on stage for the first time and eventually earning her pro card. Allison is the founder of Allison Jackson Fitness. She is an NASM-certified personal trainer, Precision Nutrition-certified coach and ANBF pro masters figure competitor. She is also the host of the podcast Fit to Lead.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Ryan Estes. He shared the story of his firs time trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Ryan is an excellent storyteller and we had many other great conversations about the beginner's mindset, benefits of first times, and discussed quite a few other topics! This is a really fun, inspirational, and entertaining episode! Ryan is the co-founder of Kitcaster – where they put the world’s top startup founders on the world’s top podcasts.  

In this episode, of the #365Firsts Podcast, I share my story of my first time out of the gate as an entrepreneur and what I learned along the way. It starts with leaving the Marine Corps, becoming a life coach and the progression from there to what made me realize I didn't have a valid business. The theme of this episode is that I always went for it, did what needed to be done and I have no regrets although I failed. Have a listen and get inspired to get started with whatever you're putting off!

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Cynthia de Lorenzi. Cynthia shared the story of the first time she bought a house online and moved to a city she had never visited before!! This interview is full of inspiration for anyone seeking a great story about following your intuition and allowing yourself to be guided by the magic of all that life has to offer. Cynthia is a speaker, artist, photographer, former tech CEO & entrepreneur. She’s passionate about innovation, art, creativity & neuroscience.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series I was joined by Ido Singer. Ido shared the story of the first major loss in his life, that of his father. It's a story he has never shared in this format before. Ido recounts the story beautifully starting with introducing us to his dad and how his life was changed by an accident at work that took a toll on him and lead to his death. But he also tells us about how the changes in his dad impacted him and how the day his dad died - was a day he played the best game (basketball) of his life. It's an incredibly moving story, that yes, brought me to tears. Ido is an Assistant Women's Basketball Coach at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. He's also the creator and host of the One Last Thought Podcast, a husband, father, leader, and instigator This is a first time story that reminds us to let the people we love know how we feel about them.

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I share with you my first experience going on a game show, The Price is Right, when I was a young Marine. It's an experience I'll never, that was educational, but didn't quite go as I'd wanted...

In this episode of the First Time Story Series I was joined by Fadi Aabidi. Fadi is an investment manager, pilot, bodybuilder, falconer, hunter, skydiver, biker, and underwater photographer who lives Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Fadi shared the story of the first time he decided to take a year off to pursue his passions. In that year, he found himself in the best shape of his life, flying fighter jets in Russia, and having multiple excursions in Africa. It's a year that seeded a decade of adventuring and continued first times and new experiences. Fadi shared incredible stories, insights, and wisdom of how that year changed him, his priorities, and outlook on life.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series I was joined by Johnni and Chris Gorges - the authors of the newly released children's book series The Fox Family Adventures. Chris and Johnni shared the story of writing and publishing their first children’s book. It's a process that took them over 2.5 years and had a lot of learning curves, some setbacks, but ultimately a final product they got to share with their young daughter. Have a listen and get inspired to start your children's book or tackle something else you've been putting off! Get the Fox Family Adventures book here: https://aslbasics.com/the-fox-family-adventures/

Today on the #365Firsts Podcast I talk about the Introduction to Tutting Class I took last week as part of a series of #365FirstsChallenge Online Events. It had been a long time since I'd had an interactive first time shared with others and it provided me a big dopamine hit that gave me the high I love so much about having new experiences. You're missing out on all the benefits if you aren't partaking in new experiences!! If you want to get a boost of energy, excitement, clarity and happiness...show up for the next event.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest was Dave Taylor. Dave shared the story of starting his first YouTube Channel thanks to the Intel Corporation. It's a story of getting started and making mistakes but constantly growing and learning. Dave is a digital storyteller, YouTuber with over 7.5M views, and tech expert who has been helping people understand tech since before the birth of the Internet! Dave shared some really great words of advice and wisdom! Well worth a listen if you're thinking of starting a YouTube Channel or really for anything new you're looking to get into.

In this episode of the First Time Story series I was joined by Derick Lugo, the author on the Unlikely Thru-Hiker. A Brooklyn-born, New York city urbanite who hopped a trained to Georgia, then grabbed a taxi at the station and told the cab drive to drop him off at the beginning of the Appalachian Trail and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. Derick shared the story of his first time thru-hiking the 2,200 miles Appalachian Trail. It's an incredibly inspirational story about stepping out of his comfort zones, learning about many different things and having his life changed. To purchase his book: https://www.dericklugo.com/product/book/

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I decided to share the story of my first (and only) hit and run. Last week's episode reminded me of this story because it was one I always told my Marines, as an example, that it pays to tell the truth!!

In this episode of the First Time Story series I was joined by Juliana Spaven. Juliana shared with us the incredible story of her first time solo traveling to Egypt when she was only 17 years old (back in 1988) and how it impacted her for the rest of her life. It's an incredible story of receiving life changing advice from an unexpected source and seeding a love and curiosity for different cultures and traveling. Juliana is a brand strategist at Magnetic Current. She makes brands magnetic to grow with sharp brand strategy.

In this episode of the First Time Story Series my guest is Travis Strong. Travis was in the middle of his second tour in Iraq when the Stryker armored combat vehicle he was patrolling in was hit by a roadside bomb and he lost both of his legs in the explosion. He now works with other veterans to help them through their struggles with PTSD. Travis is here to share the story of how he dealt with the struggles of being an amputee and tell us the story of the first time he climbed Manitou Incline and Pikes Peaks with no legs. The way Travis copes with tough times is by seeking out challenges and reminding himself what he can achieve and what life has to offer. Be ready to be inspired!!

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I share with you my path (albeit the abbreviated version) to becoming a Platoon Commander in the U.S. Marine Corps. It was one of my first major goals in life to stand in front of and be in charge of my own platoon. It's was a tough road but so incredibly worth it. Best job in the Marine Corps is being a Platoon Commander!!

Today on the first time story series my guest was Hannah. Hannah is doing a new thing everyday. After dealing with health issues and limited ability to live last year, she decided 2020 was going to be filled with living and experiences. She shared with us some of the first times and new experiences she's had so far and how they've impacted her life! If you're curious how the journey of first times and new experiences can change you life - this is the perfect episode for you.  

In episode 30 of Expert Advice Before Your First Time Series our guest is Nathan Hirsch. Nathan co-founded FreeeUp.com with 5k in 2015, a marketplace that connects businesses with pre-vetted virtual assistants, which he scaled to 12 million dollars in revenue right before it was acquired. He now helps entrepreneurs through his new course Outsourceschool. He shared excellent advice on how to prepare for, vet, onboard, and leverage a virtual assistant to grow your business. If you’re thinking about hiring a virtual assistant or are on the fence about it – this interview will provide you the information you need. If your VA isn’t exactly what you expected…Nathan’s advice will also assist you.

In this episode of the #365Firsts Podcast I share with you the story of my first tattoo...which lead me to having a bit of an epiphany. This is the only first time (so far I can think of) I'll be taking to my grave. But that wasn't the epiphany...you'll have to listen to hear it!!

Today on the First Time Story Series my guest was Steve Rast. Steve is also a Marine Corps Veteran and fellow Bunker Labs city leader in Bozeman, Montana. He’s a CrossFit Level II Coach, as well as a Running and Endurance Coach. And he works as a Financial Associate at Thrivent. Steve shared the story of his first college graduation in his thirties after his second attempt at going to college. The irony is that he was originally rejected by the college where he was instructing... He reminded us that the path to getting a degree doesn’t need to be a straight one! Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round and learned that hunting turkey is very challenging. Have a listen to be entertained and inspired!!

Episode 29 of Expert Advice Before Your First Time Series was recorded before the COVID-19 Pandemic. It's possible some changes have been made since recording because of the coronavirus; however, I still wanted to share this episode because it's rich with excellent content and advice. If you have had the desire to volunteer for the Peace Corps or have always been curious about it - this is still an excellent starting point. Our guest expert for this episode was Jen McFarland who found herself living and working as an English teacher in Kazakhstan for two years, alongside her husband, as they both served in the Peace Corps.

In this episode I share with you all my first times related to motorcycles...how I became obsessed with wanting one, my first ride as a passenger, my first motorcycle a Kawasaki 750 RZ which was way too big for me, and my first motorcycle accident.

Today, on the First Time Story Series my guest was Brie Burgett. Brie is an adventure seeker, globe trotter and Captain in the Marine Corps. She’s traveled to 108 countries on 6 continents so far. She’s constantly trying new things and pushing her limits. She shared the story of the first time she tackled her biggest mountain yet – Mount Kilimanjaro. Next, we played the First Time Lightning Round and learned how just how much Brie can pack into 24 hours. I was great catching up with Brie - she's always up to exciting stuff!!

In episode 28 of Expert Advice Before Your First Time Series we start thinking about the future sine it’s definitely becoming tougher for many people to cope with stay-at-home orders and the requirements for social distancing. I totally get it. As a matter of fact, one of the ways I’m continuing to cope with what’s happening with the Pandemic is by researching all the first times I plan on doing once we can safely return to life outside our homes. One such first that’s on my list is bobsledding, so it was awesome to have 2018 US Olympic silver medalist in the sport of bobsled, Lauren Gibbs, here to provide expert advice before your first time bobsledding. I definitely recommend having a listen so you can be prepared for your first time bobsledding!

In today's First Time Story I was joined by Jennifer Cline. Jennifer is a flag builder - a self-taught woodworker who has found her purpose through honoring first responders and veterans with her flags. She’s also been quite busy in the process working to change stereotypes in the trades. She’s here today to share the story of the many first times that followed the death of her husband and her journey into becoming the handy lady she is today. Jennifer is an amazing woman who has a powerful message for all women  We also played the First Time Lightning Round and learned that Jennifer raises bees and sells honey. You don't want to miss listening to this inspirational interview!

In episode 27 of the Expert Advice Before Your First Time Series, we venture into the world of dating where there are constantly evolving options of new things to explore. One such shift is older women dating younger men, and vice versa. We were joined by relationship expert and the best selling author of Older Women, Younger Men: New Options for Love and Romance Susan Winter. Susan shared her own experiences and those from hundreds of couples she interviewed in her book. She provides clear pros and cons for what to expect. This is an interesting and eye opening interview for anyone and everyone to listen to.

It's true my preference is for dating younger man...this is the story of the first time I was asked out by a younger man, the shock of discovering his age, and the story of how the date went.

In today's First Time Story I was joined by Matt Jaskol a pro skydiver, Ex Red Bull athlete, pro race car driver and racing instructor, and on top of that a small business owner. Matt shared the story of his time on the show Castaway, we start from the beginning of him being approached to be on the show...to the transformation he went through while on the show, and what life has been like since returning. This is a long interview...but it is full of amazing content, stories, and Matt was truly open with us. Although the interview was well over the allocated time we still played the First Time Lightning Round where Matt and I got our mudding wires crossed but we also found out Matt can air fry a mean turkey! If you're struggling with anything right now, I highly recommend listening to this interview because it will help you find strength and inspiration!