The Conspiracy of Goodness Podcast is designed to give you more joy, less fear, and no end to the evidence that a bright future is possible! This podcast will give you a fresh perspective on the world around you. We speak to thought leaders in a wave of progress, well underway around the globe, that we call the Conspiracy of Goodness. The Conspiracy of Goodness Podcast is hosted by Dr. Lynda Ulrich, founder of the Goodness Exchange. Since 2014, she and her team have been changing the negative dialogue about our times by celebrating the insights and innovations that prove it’s still an amazing world. And along the way, they have been having incredible conversations with thought leaders that they are now sharing with you!
From the United Nations to school hallways, impact artist Marco Santini is helping people see themselves—and each other—in a brighter light. His murals and “One Love” logo bring unity, creativity, and joy to communities around the world, and today he's here for a conversation about purpose, healing, affirmation, and the power of visual storytelling.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome03:52 – Meet Marco Santini, Impact Artist04:40 – The Role of Art as Storytelling and Connection10:00 –Transforming Schools Through Community Murals13:00 – Art as a Solution to School Challenges18:30 – Break21:00 – One Love: A Global Symbol of Unity25:53 – Capturing Events Through Affirmation Art40:55 – From United Nations to a Vision for 50 States52:49 – Closing
Ever wonder why the world feels heavier than it should? In this refreshingly honest and hopeful episode, we meet Andy DeMeo, founder of Granite Goodness, who's on a mission to spotlight the remarkable people quietly making communities better. Together, we explore how a simple shift in focus—from despair to possibility—can transform how we experience the world. This conversation is a warm reminder that progress is everywhere… if we know where to look.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome05:20 – Why Warmth & Genius Aren't Mutually Exclusive07:53 – All Innovation Is Local (and That's a Good Thing)10:50 – How to Train Your Internet to Be More Positive18:55 – Andy's Personal Turning Point: Panic, Fear & Finding Purpose33:13 – Why the World Is Awful, Better, and Can Be Even Better46:10 – Break 48:29 – What Granite Goodness Actually Does56:22 – The Media's Fear Formula vs. Data-Driven Progress01:14:00 – Final Thoughts: Human Potential & Spreading the Good01:20:45 – Closing
What if aging wasn't about decline, but expansion? Bestselling author and TED speaker Carl Honoré returns to flip the script on aging, slowing down, and how AI can be an unexpected ally at any age—especially over 40, 50, and 60! We explore why time feels longer when we embrace novelty, how AI can enhance independence and creativity, and why wisdom is our greatest superpower in the digital age. If you're ready to rethink what's possible in your next chapter, start here!Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome04:33 – Carl Honoré and the Slow Movement10:40 – The Impact of AI on Aging and Relevance17:04 – AI as a Tool for Mentorship and Wisdom Sharing24:05 – Preserving Knowledge Through AI Avatars35:35 – The Role of AI and Personal Advocacy32:10 – Break41:28 – AI's Influence on Business and Career Decisions46:30 – The Power of Asking Better Questions with AI58:14 – Staying Independent Longer with AI1:04:30 – Cautions of AI1:13:15 – Humanity Bends Towards Goodness1:18:52 – Closing
If you've ever felt stretched too thin, weighed down by invisible obligations, or just frustrated that you never seem to have time for what really matters, today's episode can be your roadmap to freedom. Lindsay Godwin and Miriam Novotny to talk about how to reclaim our time, and make room for what truly lights us up in their book Ditch the Ditties—a liberating guide to recognizing and releasing the unnecessary burdens that drain our energy. If you're ready to escape the cycle of overcommitment, this conversation is for you!Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome04:20 – Key Concepts from 'Ditch the Ditty'13:40 – In-depth Analysis of the Decision Tree19:04 – Discussion on Gender Dynamics and Socialization25:50 – Personal Stories and Experiences31:20 – Break33:35 – Addressing the Persistent Pleaser Syndrome38:20 – Navigating Social Expectations and Personal Choices43:00 – Thoughts on Empowerment and Self-Awareness49:39 – Essential Questions for Clarity in Personal and Professional Settings53:28 – Discussing Over-Commitment: How to Manage Life's Demands01:02:17 – Practical Tips for Setting and Respecting Personal Boundaries01:06:35 – Source of Original Courage01:14:52 – Envisioning a Ditty-Free World01:19:50 – The Ditty Detox1:22:22 – Closing
Dr. Lynda sits down with famed entrepreneur and climate change innovator Paul Hawken for a warm, candid chat as much about the poetry of life as it is about the science of carbon. Paul may be an expert in his field, but in this podcast episode we're just two ordinary people, unraveling the mysteries of the universe together.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome03:20 – Paul's Writing Process07:41 – Rethinking Carbon and Climate Change12:37 – The Climate Movement and Its Challenges20:08 – The Disconnect in Food and Health25:10 – Break27:26 – Dark Earth and Soil's Importance36:54 – Eating Starlight: The Interconnectedness of Life45:20 – The Role of Insects in the Ecosystem52:52 – The Intelligence of Nature1:00:54 – The Big Takeaway: Rediscovering Wonder1:09:30 – Closing
What if art could change the way you see yourself—and the world? Sabrina Phillips is an artist and educator who helps people—from students to corporate leaders—learn to slow down, look deeper, and have conversations that matter by turning museums into spaces for real connection. This episode is about more than art—it's about understanding, healing, and the power of human connection.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Welcome06:14 – Introducing Equity Through Art12:18 – Using Art to Build Trust and Connection15:50 – Making Difficult Conversations Easier Through Art19:48 – Finding Your True Calling in Life27:31 – Break29:50 – From Film Industry to Museum Education35:54 – Creating Community Through Art and Poetry52:33 – Final Thoughts: The Importance of Slowing Down
What if you were justone question away from a better life? In this episode, I sit down with Marc Champagne, author ofPersonal Socrates, to explore how asking the right questions can shift our mindset, unlock possibilities, and help us navigate uncertainty with clarity. We dive into the wisdom of thinkers like Kobe Bryant, Maya Angelou, and James Clear, uncovering practical tools to improve our mental fitness, decision-making, and daily habits. Tune in to learn how a simple question could change everything.Chapters00:00 — Intro & Welcome03:20 — The One Question That Can Change Your Life08:14 — Stoicism and the Art of Asking Better Questions12:23 — Mark's Personal Journey: From Rock Bottom to Reinvention19:55 — The App That Reached 86 Million People… and Was Deleted24:30 — Mental Fitness: Training Your Mind to Work for You27:53 — Break30:15 — Lessons from Great Thinkers52:39 — We All Have the Answers Inside Us57:05 — Closing
This week we're diving into a movement you might already be part of without even realizing it: the Gratitude Economy. My guest, Corinne Thompson, co-owner of Thompson RV, shares how her family's business is thriving by prioritizing trust, care, and connection over transactions. Their extraordinary approach inspired us to drive 6,000 miles to do business with them—and we weren't the only ones traveling that far! Tune in to discover how this new way of doing business can reshape our lives and the world around us. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:20 – The Gratitude Economy Overview 06:24 – The Thompson Family Business Origin 09:20 – Community Trust and Business Ethics 13:27 – Energy Exchange and Being a Good Human 27:33 – Break 29:49 – Shifting from the Attention Economy to Trust 38:22 – Building Long-Term Relationships 41:12 – Honesty and Credibility in Sales 47:45 – Future-Proofing with Authenticity 55:45 – Authentic Business Practices 1:17:00 – Closing
Our guest today has written a book that my co-founder and daughter - Liesl - read and upon closing the book she exclaimed, “This will become our family bible about how we care about the land and each other. It's the way the whole world should work! We're going to read from it to our kids over and over!” OK.. now that's about as high praise as you can get. The book's title would lead one to believe its about forests, but join us to see why as beautiful as that part is… there is so much more there! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:32 – Ethan's Journey to Forestry 10:52 – The Beauty of Action 13:11 – Persistence in Change 16:22 – Break 18:38 – Metaphors in Conservation 20:05 – Embracing Complexity 25:11 – The "Cathedral" Forest Fallacy 29:15 – Old-Growth Forests and Structural Complexity 34:51 – The Concept of Wolf Trees 42:32 – Freedom in Conservation 48:51 – Conservation Easements 50:54 – Embracing Contradictions 58:01 – Love and Logging 01:01:50 – Final Thoughts
What do therapy and Zen Buddhism have in common? In this episode, psychologist, Zen master Flint Sparks shares how growing up (emotionally) and waking up (spiritually) can transform our everyday lives. If you're curious about how to handle life's messiness with a little more grace and a lot more ease, you won't want to miss this conversation. It's practical, uplifting, and refreshingly real! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:00 – Oh!? Now this. 06:46 – Being Present for the People We Love 15:53 – Acts of Generosity and Gratitude 22:09 – Managing Expectations and Uncertainty 32:00 – The Impact of Distractions and Technology 36:19 – Break 38:35 – Returning to Center: Mindfulness in Daily Life 45:25 – The Importance of Connection and Attunement 56:14 – Embracing Life's Guest House 1:01:30 – Gratitude Economy 1:06:42 – Soften Barriers to Love 1:08:00 – Closing
Whether it's navigating family dynamics, broaching tricky conversations, or simply making your partner feel safe, relationship coach Rebecca Mullen has transformative insights to share from her book, ‘Six Steps to Better Marriage Communication.' From mastering the "Clean Ask" to infusing everyday moments with love, Rebecca reveals practical tools that can solve our perennial struggles and deepen our relationships. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:15 – The Transformative Power of Rebecca's Book 08:00 – Overcoming Fear in Relationships 14:50 – Protect to Connect: Building Empathy and Connection 17:35 – Everyday Examples of Better Communication 30:35 – Break 33:15 – Making the Invisible Visible in Relationships 38:09 – The Power of "Yes, And" in Relationships 43:45 – How to Apologize Effectively 51:10 – Marriage Meetings: Building Stronger Partnerships 01:02:15 – Create Peace at home 01:04:25 – Closing
Have you ever felt like your stuff owns you, rather than the other way around? That's precisely what today's guest on the Conspiracy of Goodness Podcast, Eagranie Yuh, helps us confront. Eagranie, a TEDx speaker, writer, and editor, has a perspective-shifting message about why we hold onto things, and how letting go can be liberating. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:49 – The Job of Our Stuff: Recognizing Purpose and Letting Go 05:22 – Respecting Yourself and Your Time: Managing Energy and Attention 10:03 – Sentimental Value: The Emotional Connection to Our Possessions 15:06 – A Journey of Downsizing: From Vancouver to Tasmania 18:55 – Break 21:12 – TED Talk Reflections: Lessons from Simplifying Life 22:49 – The Role of Identity in Clinging to Possessions 26:39 – Aspirational Ownership: Facing Reality About Hobbies and Interests 29:50 – Saving for Special Occasions: Everyday Life is Special 40:15 – The "Just in Case" Mentality: Overcoming Fear and Scarcity 48:14 – Responsible Downsizing: Finding New Homes for Belongings 54:35 – Preventing Clutter: Mindfulness in Acquiring New Items 01:01:52 – Embracing Minimalism for a Freer Life 01:04 – Closing
Watch Episode on YouTube Dr. Srikumar Rao, a global thought leader in wisdom traditions, joins me today to share how to reframe stress, redefine success, and uncover meaning in every moment. With practical insights like “good thing, bad thing—who knows?” and the transformative power of being a “vortex of calm,” this episode will leave you rethinking what's possible in your own life. Listen now and start your journey toward peace-of-mind and purpose! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:16 – Creativity & Personal Mastery 09:17 – Confidence and Facing Uncertainty 11:54 – Joy, Perspective, and Mental Models 15:12 – Break 17:26 – The “If, Then” Model 20:54 – Separating Reality from Perception 31:10 – Create Meaning 25:27 – Fulfillment Beyond Circumstances 37:13 – Laughter, Desires, and Gratitude 44:26 – Overcoming Stress and Embracing the Journey 59:59 – Final Thoughts on Living with Purpose 1:03:17 – Closing
A.J. Crabill, a top expert in education leadership, joins us with a fresh, transformative approach to unlocking every child's potential. Even if education isn't your world, you'll find plenty of “ah-ha” moments as A.J. shares why our current system misses the mark—and how it could create a radically better future for us all. With decades of success in transforming schools by supporting students in fresh ways, Crabill has been featured on NPR's All Things Considered and is here to discuss his new book, Our Tools They Deserve, where he argues that students need social-emotional skills taught as rigorously as math or reading. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:03 – Why School Systems Exist 08:34 – Maximize Potential for Students 13:50 – The Story of ‘Jasmine' 23:48 – Break 26:04 – Aj's Book ‘Our Tools They Deserve' 37:25 – Practice Restoration, Not Retribution 43:51 – Misconceptions Towards Children 48:40 – AJ's Origin Story 53:20 – All Kids Want to Learn 56:45 – Behavior is Communication 01:01:18 – Everyone Has the Capacity for Something Great 01:02:15 – Engage With Your Community 01:05:05 – Closing
We're thrilled to welcome Noel Paul Stookey, legendary musician and social activist best known as part of the iconic folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary—creators of such classic songs like “If I Had a Hammer,” “Blowin' in the Wind,” and “Puff the Magic Dragon.” For over six decades, Stookey has stood as a beacon of resilience and optimism, using his music and his philosophy of “Big Love” to inspire hope and unity. Chapters 00:00 – Intro and Welcome 02:50 – Reflections on Goodness and Influence 05:08 – The 1963 March and Music's Social Power 10:28 – Is Folk Music Evolving? 13:34 – Revolution and Making Change One by One 16:54 – Serendipity and Connection 18:50 – Music to Life: Social Change Through Music 23:15 – Concerts and Community 30:07 – Break 32:23 – The Dimpled White Orb 35:00 – Big Love and Compassionate Connection 42:40 – Encouraging Optimism and Avoiding Blame 50:40 – Fear vs. Hate in a Divisive World 55:15 – Final Remarks 57:00 – Closing
Sascha Mayer is the founder of a company called Mamava, a Vermont business that created an entirely new product that stands out, not only for its brilliance, but also for its obvious necessity: Private pods especially for breastfeeding mothers. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:21 – Origin Story of Mamava 07:28 – Vermont's Business Culture 10:29 – Adaptability in Spaces 12:13 – Privacy in Pumping Spaces 16:20 – Creating a Comfortable Space 20:25 – Design Approach to Lactation Spaces 25:27 – Break 27:42 – Sasha's Background and Journey 32:04 – Building the Team 38:00 – Turning Setbacks into Growth 43:03 – Words of Support App Feature 45:53 – Celebrating Wins in Business 48:20 – Serving B2B and End Users 53:00 – Sasha's Grandmother's Influence 55:55 – Reflecting on Privilege and Responsibility 58:10 – Key Advice for Innovators 01:00:25 – What You Can Do Next 01:02:00 – Closing
Arthur Zards walks us through dozens of ways AI can improve your daily life. Arthur is helping us unlock the potential of AI in our everyday lives and calls that journey "Vibing with AI," shifting us from fear to curiosity. He has taught me that viewing AI as a collaborator in expanding our natural intelligence is the key to getting started. In today's conversation, we treat that process with some friendly fun and teach you to use AI for practical tasks and problem-solving. It's like working with the smartest friend you can imagine! Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3UgkH7OHp90 *Chapters* 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:43 – Overcoming AI Fears and AI's Rapid Evolution 05:20 – Shifting the Mindset: Vibing with AI and Practical Applications 09:01 – Getting Started with AI: Choosing Chatbots and Custom Prompts 11:15 – Using AI for Personal Productivity and Content Creation 17:09 – Break 19:28 – Practical AI Use Cases: Garden Planning, Workouts, and Personal Tasks 28:17 – AI as a Collaborative Partner: Expanding Thoughts and Solving Problems 34:47 – AI for Specialized Needs: Health, Disabilities, and Communication 37:47 – AI for Data Management, Coding, and Future Potential 44:36 – Closing
Let's turn our backs on the fear and worst-case-scenarios of the AI world for a minute, and allow ourselves to get curious about the positive potential! Tech expert Arthur Zards is here to teach us just how (and why) we need to learn to “vibe with” AI in our everyday lives! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:11 – Vibing with AI 06:36 – Digital Natives vs Digital Immigrants 09:57 – What is AI? 13:13 – Adapting with AI 26:16 – Collaborating with AI 30:46 – Break 33:02 – Be the Human in the Loop 41:29 – AI is Not Another Tool 47:46 – AI Myths 54:35 – Preview of Part 2 56:24 – Practice AI Daily 58:01 – Closing
In this episode, we talk with Kaaren Oldfield, a visionary who helped save 40,000 acres of land around Chicago. Through her strategic thinking, collaboration with local communities, and relentless passion for conservation, Kaaren spearheaded efforts to protect vast green spaces, ensuring cleaner air, reduced flooding, and better property values for generations to come. See how one woman's determination turned a vision into reality and learn how similar initiatives could benefit your community. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:13 – Why Green Spaces Matter 05:57 – Chicago's Urban Planning and Green Spaces 08:55 – Community Efforts for Green Space Preservation 12:24 – Strategic Thinking and Voter Support 14:24 – The Long-Term Impact of Green Spaces 20:52 – Kaaren's Origin Story 27:43 – Running a Campaign for Green Spaces 32:00 – Break 34:24 – Building a Kitchen Cabinet for Success 38:45 – Developers and Green Space 50:25 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information 54:25 – Closing
Enock Glidden is an unstoppable outdoorsman and athlete, and a champion of breaking barriers. Born with spina bifida and paralyzed from the waist down, Enock has tackled challenges most of us wouldn't dream of—like climbing Yosemite's legendary El Capitan! His “How can I?” mindset has turned obstacles into adventures, and today, we're exploring his journey of resilience, his love for the outdoors, and how he's inspiring others to reimagine what's possible. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:43 – Overcoming Spina Bifida and Personal Philosophy 07:43 – Say “How Can I?” 13:12 – Outdoor Adventures and Making Accessibility Possible 17:05 – Break 19:21 – Adaptive Sports and Expanding Possibilities 24:38 – El Capitan Climb and Personal Strength 31:10 – Saying Yes and Encouraging Curiosity 38:47 – Understanding and Empathy in Offering Help 46:43 – What Enock Wishes People Knew 47:55 – Closing
John Sabraw is an artist whose work has captured the interest of TIME Magazine. Together with Dr. Guy Feefle, he is transforming toxic mining waste into beautiful paint pigments, showing us how we can heal the environment through creativity and community—and how teamwork makes problem-solving not just effective, but amazingly fun. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:32 – Historical Context of Ohio's Pollution Problem 12:00 - The Project's Origins 17:02 - Discovering Pollution and Creating Pigments 25:54 – Break 29:13 – Managing Patience and Group Collaboration 33:44 – The Importance of a Diverse Skill Set in Collaboration 40:19 – Creating a 3D Printed Sculpture Garden 45:18 – Collaboration and Its Potential 51:08 – The Fun and Adventure in Solving Large-Scale Problems 55:00 – Final Reflections on the Importance of Perspective 58:12 – Closing
Whether you just want to like the way you look in photos, or just want to feel better in your own skin, body image expert and best-selling author Teri Hofford has the tools to lift you up. With her warm, refreshingly honest personality and insightful tips, she'll help us celebrate ALL our unique shapes and sizes. Expect a few eye-opening moments, and a whole lot of real talk about breaking down those pesky beauty standards. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:39 – Meaning Behind Body Image 10:35 – Curiosity: The Antidote to Judgement 15:29 – Break 17:45 – The Purpose of the Body 21:30 – The Selfie Exercise 27:57 – Quick Judgement 30:50 – Look at Yourself in the Mirror 37:50 – The Gap Between Expectation and Reality 42:15 – Your Body Is Not a Trend 44:57 – Issues With the Body Positivity Movement 51:37 – Biases Towards Others 55:34 – Be Aware of Your Limiting Beliefs 1:00:03 – Closing
Kendra Bergman is the founder of Coastal Connections, an amazing organization protecting the coastal habitats in Indian River County, Florida—with a special focus on sea turtle conservation. Bergman and her 150 dedicated volunteers not only educate the community, but also organize hands-on conservation trips—including journeys to Costa Rica, to safeguard sea turtles there. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:25 – Sea Turtle Nest Excavation Story 06:28 – Conservation Challenges and Success Stories 11:28 – Coastal Monitoring and Florida's Conservation Network 16:20 – Sea Turtle Nesting Process and Hatchlings 25:38 – Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Plastic Pollution Initiatives 41:14 – Break 43:30 – Costa Rica Sea Turtle Advocacy 50:17 – Data-Driven Conservation and Future Plans 1:06:05 – Closing
In this exciting episode, we're honored to have Astronaut Nicole Stott join us for Part 2!. Nicole spent over 100 days in space, where she performed critical science and a spacewalk. These experiences give her a unique perspective about tools we can all use right here on earth to find more success together. She looks at the success of day to day life on the International Space Station and shares some terrific insights and processes that we can use in our own lives. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:11 – The Overview Effect 05:47 – Daily Life on the Space Shuttle 07:39 – Crew Collaboration and Problem Solving 12:38 – Preparing for Mars: The Next Frontier 15:21 – Human 2.0 and Emotional Evolution 22:50 – Break 25:06 – Art in Space: Painting with Watercolors 30:36 – Cosmic Reflections: Returning Home 32:55 – Earthing and Grounding on Planet Earth 41:55 – Hope for the Future: Intelligent Life and Environmental Stewardship 53:35 – Closing
Taylor Zehren, one of Forbes' 30 Under 30, is the visionary co-founder of a startup that forms a key link in our ability to create a world with no waste—and her company Wasted* is literally starting at the bottom of the problem. Thanks to her innovations, we all may someday be using a system that turns our own bodies' waste into a remarkable circular resource stream. 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:18 – Potties with Purpose 05:43 – The Creation of Wasted* 11:43 – What Does Wasted* Do? 15:30 – The Circular Economy 20:20 – Break 22:35 – Dealing with Taboos of Human Waste 27:25 – Update Waste Management Infrastructures 29:25 – Benefits of Innovating in Vermont 33:44 – Regenerative Agriculture 36:15 – Educating Others 39:20 – Taylor's Original Courage 34:54 – The Power of Community 46:56 – How You Can Help 52:03 – Closing
Frank White is renowned for coining the term "overview effect," the concept describing the profound and transformative experience astronauts have when they view Earth from space, recognizing its fragility and interconnectedness. He has dedicated his career to highlighting the potential benefits of living and learning beyond our planet, and his work underscores the fascinating advancements possible through space exploration. For everyday people like you and I, the overview effect can vastly improve our collective consciousness and global perspective. *Chapter* 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:04 – We Can Go Deeper into the Chaos, or Look Up 06:38 – The Experience of the Overview Effect 09:14 – Franks Early Life 17:23 – Origin of the Term ‘Overview Effect' 20:51 – The Rise of Citizen Astronauts 28:52 – Break 31:08 – Bringing the Overview Effect Down to Earth 36:24 – Our Perspective Influences Our Reality 42:16 – The People Are Not In Conflict… 47:11 – We Are the Universe Experiencing Itself 51:40 – Closing
Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde is a visionary Pastoral Counselor, author, and Community Dharma Leader with a Doctorate in Theology and a passion for community care. Dr. Yetunde provides a unique approach to healing our perspectives, blending spirituality, psychology, and social justice to create some practical insights we can use in everyday life to strengthen ourselves, and the bonds within our communities. *Chapters* 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:44 – Interdependence 09:30 – Find Compassion Towards Yourself 15:26 – Break 17:41 – Grace 23:29 – How to Be Resilient 28:00 – Tips for Conflict Resolution with Others 34:00 – Recognize Your Limiting Beliefs 39:00 – Origin of Original Courage 45:59 – Who Should You Give Your Attention To? 52:12 – Closing
CEO Cheldin Barlatt Rumer is the powerhouse behind the This Is It Network, a global female-and-minority-owned digital streaming entertainment and education platform. Known for her dynamic insights on personal branding, networking, storytelling, and empowerment, Cheldin shares her journey helping others "scream their dream." Whether you're an entrepreneur, or simply looking for some motivation to find what's next for you, this is one conversation you won't want to miss. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:35 – Cheldin's Origin Story 05:22 – Scream Your Dream 07:06 – The Importance of Storytelling 10:51 – The Unique Equation 14:06 – Embracing Strengths and Weaknesses 18:07 – Tattoo and Sticker Goals 22:02 – Highlight Reel 24:40 – Simplifying Your Message 28:22 – The Power of Repetition 31:05 – The Power of Positivity 34:36 – Creating an Online Presence 38:19 – Break 40:37 – Q&A: Selling vs. Telling 46:03 – Networking and Storytelling 52:02 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways 54:48 – Audience Questions 1:00:57 – Outro
Dr. Jack Gilbert is a luminary in the hidden world of our microbiomes—the trillions of tiny organisms that live in and on our bodies. Dr. Gilbert's groundbreaking research has shed light on how the makeup of this ecosystem on our bodies is shaping our health; from personalized medicine to mental health, to chronic disease response, his work is unlocking the secrets that will change our shared future. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:15 – Why Dirt is Good 11:15 – Break 13:31 – Are Probiotics Useful? 20:25 – Individualized Medicine 31:03 – The Gut-Brain Connection 38:24 – Dirt Enhances Immune Systems 41:40 – Closing
Flint Sparks is both a Zen teacher and Licensed Psychologist of 40 years, and today he shares some very practical but transformative practices, blending Eastern philosophy with Western psychology to navigate life's challenges. We talk about the barriers we might be unknowingly putting up against our own happiness, and how we can break them down to give ourselves boost of clarity and connection.
Gay Hendricks is a renowned author celebrated for his bestselling book "The Big Leap," which has transformed the lives of millions with its profound insights into personal growth and success. His groundbreaking concepts, such as the “Upper Limit Problem” and living in your “Zone of Genius,” have made him a leading voice in the field of personal development, and he has a new book of daily practices that we are delighted to celebrate. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:08 – Upper Limit Problem 08:04 – The Zone of Genius 15:57 – Break 18:27 – Own Your Story 24:03 – Discover Your Unique Ability 29:50 – Your Big Leap Year 35:04 – The Secret to Success 39:08 – Closing
When it comes to hearing from voices at the leading edge of change, our guest today could not be a better example. Christal Brown is a dynamic mother, author, coach, facilitator, choreographer, and educator. And as the first Black woman to be tenured at Middlebury College, Christal has broken barriers and inspired many. Founder of Life Steps and Stages, her insights help individuals and institutions navigate the messy phases of realizing their visions. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 2:07 – Chistal's Journey 6:03 – Finding a Bigger Version of Yourself 12:05 – Finding Your ‘Soul'ution 14:20 – Break 16:35 – Be Invested in Yourself 21:50 – Discovering Belonging 24:40 – Book: Steps and Stories: 30 Days of Growth with Grace 29: 14 – Risk Taking 31:59 – Embrace the 'Messy Middle' 38:38 – Building a Community in Your Life 43:15 – The Beginner's Mindset 45:27 – Soft Skills vs Hard Skills 50:51 – Stop ‘Shoulding' Yourself 53:08 – Closing
Kenton Lee is the innovative mind behind the "The Shoe That Grows”, a solution (and now an enormously successful non-profit) that has provided shoes for hundreds of thousands of impoverished children in places where soil-borne diseases can take their lives. Today we dive into Kenton's journey from idea to impact, and he shared how any of us might find a way to bridge entrepreneurship with social impact. Turns out, ideas large and small, change the world for others, and we can all be a part of that kind of happiness through helping others! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:16 – Kenton's Background 06:46 – Inspiration for The Shoe That Grows 19:40 – The Power of Small Things 27:41 – Break 29:56 – Commercial Sale of Shoes 33:45 – Working as a Nonprofit 41:23 – How to Help
In a world where unsolicited phone calls have become a nuisance for many, Roger Anderson stands out as a pioneer in fighting back against telemarketers. With his creation of the Jolly Roger bot, Anderson has devised a clever and entertaining way to respond to these unwanted calls. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:33 – The Origin of Jolly Roger Telephone Co 10:22 – How Jolly Roger Bot Works 15:20 – How Telemarketing Works 28:06 – Break 30:21 – Shark Tank Story 35:33 – Abusive Telemarketers 38:06 – Victims of Telemarketing Scams 43:08 – You Can Help Thousands with Jolly Roger Bot 47:00 – Closing
Martinus Evans is the dynamic force behind SlowAF Run Club, pioneering a revolution in running culture for people who might not see themselves taking part in the hobby. Featured in The New York Times, Evans champions inclusivity, redefining success in a world obsessed with pace. With his infectious enthusiasm, he inspires a global community to embrace their journey, no matter the speed. In this movement, the finish line isn't the goal—it's the journey itself. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:20 – Martinus' Journey 14:08 – Insights from “Slow AF Run Club” 19:15 – Break 21:30 – What is Slow AF Run Club? 25:22 – Benefits to Being Active 26:27 – Weight Loss Myths 30:30 – The Progression of Size Inclusivity 37:41 – Advice for Your Younger Self 42:11 – Martinus' Peak Moments 46:27 – Closing
Zoe Weil is an innovator, educator, and the driving force behind a revolutionary approach to creating positive change in the world. Her latest book, ‘The Solutionary Way,' is not just a good read, it's a roadmap to transforming—as individuals and communities—for the better. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:09 – The Definition of Solutionary 07:23 – The Solutionary Way 18:35 – Be a Campfire, Not a Forestfire 22:53 – Break 25:09 – 4 Rules for Being a Solutionary 37:09 – 3 Questions to Ask When Becoming a Solutionary 48:58 – Bad and Better at the Same Time 56:20 – Institute for Humane Education 57:00 – The Solutionary Way and Mental Health 58:49 – What Needs to Happen Next? 1:00:47 – Closing
Darrin Tulley is a name that resonates with many of those who seek inspiration and purpose in their lives. He is the visionary author behind the acclaimed book ‘Live Your Possible,' and the dynamic host of a podcast of the same name. But who is Darrin Tulley, and what led him to become a guiding light for so many? Learn his story of vulnerability, and see what vast possibilities we can find when we get out of our comfort zones. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:08 – There is a Light Inside Every Person 09:00 – Darrin's Diversity Inclusion Seminar Story 13:11 – Be Vulnerable First 17:25 – Privilege Comes With Responsibility 27:00 – Break 29:16 – Insights on the Word ‘Possible' 33:52 – Making a Difference Inside and Out 39:52 – Partnering Up 45:38 – “I'll See It When I Believe It” 52:28 – Protect Your Sense of Wonder 57:18 – Story of the One-Eyed Smile 01:00:56 – You Have More Impact Than You Think 01:03:31 – Closing
Sarah Yourgrau, is the talented producer and co-host behind Mike Rowe's heartwarming series, Returning the Favor. This acclaimed show has 105 episodes with over 450 million views, and celebrates unsung heroes across America, restoring our faith in each other. She is among a handful of people who have really seen the scope of our true potential as neighbors and communities. You will be sent soaring by her stories, of one act of kindness at a time. Chapters 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 03:42 - There Are No Mundane Moments 05:24 - Producing ‘Returning the Favor' Series 21:55 - Break 24:11 - Gamifying Curiosity 35:06 - “I'm Not Attached to the Person I Was” 38:22 - Stories Are What Keep Us Human 42:38 - Sadness Carves Out Your Capacity for Joy 46:22 - Find Compassion & Patience with Others 48:34 - We Have So Much in Common 55:06 - Closing
Matthew Lee stands as a beacon of hope in a world often overshadowed by stress and uncertainty. He is the visionary director of The Flourishing Network at the Human Flourishing Program at Harvard, where his pioneering work has garnered widespread acclaim and tangibly transformed lives around the globe. He has some amazing practical wisdom to share, wisdom that illuminates a path to human flourishing for us all. *Chapters* 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:42 - Every Person is Infinitely Valuable 07:30 - The True Meaning of Flourishing 13:31 - Flourishing is a Dialogue 19:05 - How to Know if You're Flourishing 23:33 - The Expression “Shining Eyes” 30:24 - Break 32:40 - A Story of Grace 38:16 - Change Contempt to Curiosity 41:33 - Your Upset Can Be Your Setup 49:53 - Flourishing at Work 01:03:25 - Closing
Seth Godin, a globally renowned social entrepreneur, has the keys to finding work that not only pays the bills, but also brings profound personal satisfaction and fulfillment. With his signature blend of wisdom and story-telling, he explains how to align your career with your passions and values, and to create opportunities that lead to your dream job. Chapters 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 03:27 - What Makes the Best Job Ever? 07:55 - Why We Need Significance 09:06 - Break 11:24 - Humans Are Not Resources 14:51 - Management Is Not Leadership 19:29 - Diversity & Collaboration in the Workplace 23:57 - The Conspiracy of Goodness 26:05 - Criticize the Work Not the Worker 29:15 - Do the Work 32:08 - “Page 19 Thinking” 33:45 - Closing
In the quiet corners of Vermont, amidst the soothing hum of nature, there's an almost impossibly deep and velvety voice that resonates with wisdom and authenticity: Meet Kris Brown, a voiceover expert whose path to success has been anything but ordinary. His journey is marked by struggles (like incarceration and homelessness), redemption (through insightful strategies), and, through it all, a relentless pursuit of several passions that he is now bringing together in a life that can inspire us all. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 06: 19 – Harnessing Our Positivity with Patience 10:04 – The Incarceration Story 18:27 – Reflect on Your Journey 25:13 – Positivity in Prison 29:09 – Kris' Culinary Journey 34:14 – Break 38:39 – Kris' Journey as a Voiceover Artist 43:08 – Having Patience for Your Passion 48:20 – Being Patient as a Parent 55:50 – Cannasations w/ Kris Podcast 58:25 – Common Cannabis Misconceptions 01:09:56 – Benefits of Cannabis for PTSD 01:13:35 – The “10 Minutes of Pain” Therapy Method 01:21:35 – You Get In What You Put Out 01:23:43 – Closing
Jennifer Bushman is a leading expert in elevating ingeniously sustainable “water farming.” Aquaculture now has the potential to provide abundant seafood, as well as foods from freshwater sources, all over the world. Get ready to be delighted—and hungry—as you learn about this consumer shift that you'll surely be anxious to participate in. Chapters 0:00 – Intro & Welcome 3:25 – Seafood Choices at Restaurants 6:00 – Importance of Knowing Seafood Sources 13:27 – Break 15:43 – Fed by Blue 19:06 – Consumer Trust and the Role of Media in Environmental Advocacy 25:55 – Underutilized Seafood Species 32:09 – Challenging the Misconceptions Around Wild-Caught Seafood 38:04 – Changing Consumer Perceptions: From Consumers to Contributors 41:45 – The Power of Early Education in Shaping Sustainable Eating Habits 43:37 – ”Hope in the Water” Documentary 45:38 – Encouraging Informed Consumer Choices in Seafood Restaurants 48:56 – Closing
In the realm of travel, there are individuals who are not just adventurers, but also champions of breaking stereotypes and fostering connections with others. Doug Barnard is one of those individuals. He is a seasoned YouTuber with over 500,000 followers, as well as a guide who takes travelers on wondrous journeys to places maligned in mass media, like Iraq. Barnard has found the people there amazing in their generosity and goodwill towards Americans, and he embraces the opportunity to showcase the wonders of ancient lands that are completely untouched by tourism. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 02:39 – Doug's Background 06:38 – Traveling to Iraq 12:00 – What Iraqis Think of Americans 17:02 – Break 19:18 – Tourist Experiences in Different Countries 26:45 – Traveling to Pakistan 30:08 – Traveling to Bangladesh 31:15 – Hard Power & Soft Power 35:00 – We're All the Same 44:40 – Doug Barnard Travel Guide Experience 55:07 – Closing
Astronaut Nicole Stott isn't your average adventurer; she's one of the few individuals who have had the privilege of leaving Earth and venturing into the vast unknown of outer space, experiencing the wonder of living and working aboard both a space shuttle and the ISS. With over 100 days spent in space, Nicole has gained a unique perspective on our planet and the universe beyond. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 2:28 – Don't Forget You Live on a Planet 5:45 – What is the Overview Effect? 13:39 – Break 15:55 – The Power of the Overview Effect 20:11 – Spaceship Earth 31:26 – Change Contempt to Curiosity 45:05 – Nicole's Book 49:22 – Be a Crewmate on Planet Earth 51:40 – Closing
Ernesto Rodriguez is using a lifetime of experiences bridging art, science, and nature to create healing environments, and he can teach us how to combine our own unique life experiences to create real impact in remarkable ways. During this interview, you may see a path for yourself appear: one that allows you to live with joyous energy to the very end. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 04:20 – Origins of Ernesto's Projects 08:55 – Ernesto's Journey 15:05 – The Psychological Benefits of Trees 23:21 – Break 25:38 – Listen to the Universe 34:20 – A Lesson in Perseverance in Innovation 40:15 – The Importance of Nature 44:02 – Closing
Dr. Rebecca Cliffe is the founder of one of the world's largest organizations for the conservation of the endearing, always-smiling sloth. Sloths aren't just the latest trendy, adorable animal: Dr. Cliffe is here to inform us that they are worth every moment of constant attention and adoration, and to help us understand how we can assist this remarkable wildlife partner. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:58 – Slow & Steady Wins the Race 06:15 – The Issues Sloths Face 09:05 – Dr. Cliffe's Finds Her True Calling 14:45 – Celebrate the Wins No Matter What 18:17 – Break 20:35 – The Sloth Conservation Foundation's Mission 23:45 – Travel Savvy Tips For Ethical Animal Treatment 31:25 – Creating a Sloth-Friendly Urban Environment 38:27 – The Need for Greater Sloth Research 45:25 – The Importance of Sloths in Their Ecosystems 48:44 – Future Goals for The Sloth Conservation Foundation 51:10 – How to Support the Sloths 56:35 – Closing
Did you know that many of the design and engineering problems we face today have already been solved through millions of years of evolution, by nature itself? Katie Losey, a science writer, is passionately advocating for the use of biomimicry—the study and application of nature's hidden genius—in modern problem-solving. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:08 – What is Biomimicry? 09:27 – The Earth Calendar Analogy 12:24 – Ways Biomimicry Can Lead to True Progress 18:50 – The Elegant Simplicity of Nature 22:55 – Break 25:12 – Katie's Journey into Biomimicry 32:15 –Biomimicry's Regenerative Solutions 36:00 – Carl Sagan's Quote About Stardust 41:22 – We Are Nature 44:36 – What Should People Do Next? 48:30 – Closing
Bill Burke is the former CEO of The Weather Channel, and former President of the TBS Superstation. His long life at the highest echelons of media leadership has made him a master at choosing his own perspective, and he considers optimism to be one of our greatest superpowers. In this episode, he shares his insights about how it's possible to harness the power of optimism with a few key strategies. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 2:28 –Why Bill Started Advocating for Optimism 4:32 – Bill's Definition of Optimism 7:30 – The Science of Optimism 17:05 – Break 19:22 – Challenging Sociology Studies 22:19 – Challenges Left by Past Generations 30:41 – Pessimism is the Evil Twin of Cynicism 32:15 – Gen Z Will be the Greatest Generation in Human History 34:55 – You See What You Look For 40:23 – Our Responsibility to Lead Others Up 49:17 – The Blue Sky Podcast 53:05 – David Von Drehle's Cardinal Story 57:01 – How the News Skews Our Perceptions 59:35 – Our Outlook is a Choice 1:01:50 – Closing
Kyle Dodson is a master when it comes to building bridges that know no bounds within communities. He can turn almost any negative notion on its side, inspect it from a fresh angle, and transform it into a source of positive ripple effects—and in that rare talent, he shows us how to invite others into a place of possibility. Chapters 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 03:15 - The Power of Intention 05:15 - Community Crossroads 11:50 - Kyle's Story 23:00 - Show Up With Grace 30:44 - Break 33:00 - Do the Work 41:48 - A Story of Doing Work in Unheralded Ways 46:57 - The Power of Community 51:00 - A Few Caring People Can Change the World 56:50 - Choose Where You Direct Your Energy 1:05:00 - The Power of Curiosity and Relationship 1:09:53 - Closing
Our guests today, Abby Wren and Wade Holland, are pushing back the edges of what's “acceptable” and thereby opening up a whole new landscape for people who'd like to celebrate their uniqueness more. If your inner light is being dimmed (even a little) by the pressure to fit in or some life circumstance feels like a limitation, you will love this episode. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 03:05 – Exploring Creative Journeys and Advocacy 07:59 – The Significance of Authentic Connections 11:25 – Embracing Vulnerability and Personal Growth 17:26 – Cultivating a Positive Impact Through Social Media 25:25 – Navigating Personal and Professional Growth 33:08 – Embracing Change and New Opportunities 41:00 – Break 43:15 – The Role of Community and Support Systems 49:58 – Future Aspirations and Continuing the Journey 57:03 – Concluding Thoughts
In our rush to solve problems, we often overlook simple logic that holds the key to enormous progress. When it comes to turning the desert wastelands of our planet (that human activity created) back into their once lush, productive forests and grasslands, Ecologist Roger Savory has one of those transformational observations that the world could be embracing. Chapters 0:00 – Intro & Welcome 3:00 – Caring About Future Generations 8:00 – The Roots of Desertification 13:10 – Break 15:27 – A Personal History Interwoven with Nature 17:17 – Unveiling the Biological Carpet 23:49 – Quick Insight into Land Restoration 27:10 – The Critical Top Millimeter 31:30 – Understanding the Micro Water Cycle 35:40 – Revitalizing Depleted Soils 38:55 – Agricultural Practices and Their Consequences 42:45 – Everything Is Connected 49:52 – The Barrier of Instinctual Fear 53:52 – Success in Australia 58:50 – Closing